I had been checking my mailbox for weeks; pacing back and forth, waiting for the mail carrier to arrive. Sometimes, I’d meet her down the street – impatiently inquiring if she had anything for me, my stomach twisting in knots as she ransacked her mailbag. After rooting around for what seemed like hours, she’d look up at me with a expression of pure pity, and say, “Not today, Lena.”

Crushed, I walked back to my house, wondering how I could make it through the next 24 hours. Surely it would arrive tomorrow.

I was waiting for a big package; one that would be bursting at the seams. I had pinned years of hopes and dreams on this; I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t function until I knew either way where fate would take me. I refused to be recklessly confident and yet I knew my chances were extraordinarily good… so, I waited.

And then, the very next day, it happened.

As I leaned against the mailbox for support, I caught sight of the mail carrier as she turned the corner. She had a glorious grin from ear-to-ear and in her hands, was clutching a thick, heavy package. As we made eye contact, I broke into a run, a little bloom of hope growing inside of me. Within seconds I pulled up short in front of her, gasping as I tried to catch my breath – “For me?”

“For you,” she replied with a smile, unshed tears glistening in her eyes.

Grabbing the package, I tore it open right then and there. Inside, I found several forms, many little booklets, but it was the single sheet of paper at the very top that caught my eye:

Dear Lena,

You’ve Been Admitted to Monsters University. 

The Monsters University Admissions Office have asked us to extend an invitation for an exclusive “campus tour.” M.U. students Mike Wazowski, James P. Sullivan (plus more misfit monsters) invite you and your loved ones to see a sneak peek of Disney-Pixar’s “Monsters University” (@MonstersU) on Saturday afternoon, May 11 at the AMC Theatres at Downtown Disney! (If you want to scream now, it’s o.k…the monsters actually like it.) This sneak peek is compliments of our pals at Disney-Pixar (@DisneyPixar).

Sincerely,
Dean Hardscrabble

I couldn’t help it – I cried with relief. I had waited for this letter for four long years. Four years of hitting the books, churning out content, and late nights spent at the computer instead of hanging with friends and family. Four years of building my credentials, networking among peers, and making sure I always stayed true to myself and my followers. And now, it had finally paid off. (more…)

In just a few short hours, I’ll be co-hosting an intimate event with Anne Parks, Director of Menu Management, at a McDonald’s restaurant in Toronto. We’ll have a picnic-style lunch, chat menu inspiration and sample the NEW Signature McWrap. And best of all… I’ll have a chance to meet a few of my fabulous readers! It’s always so awesome to meet y’all in person – especially while devouring a tasty McWrap!

Now just in case you’ve been wondering how Anne adapts McDonald’s recipes to suit Canadian preferences and tastes, she chats about her role, and her day-to-day inspiration, in this neat little video:

And of course, we’ll continue the conversation this afternoon. If you’re on Twitter, be sure to follow the #SavourtheFlavour hashtag, where I’ll be sharing photos, highlights from the afternoon, and of course, all the juicy tidbits about the NEW Signature McWrap. Until then, have a great day!

Picture It: You’re at your favourite store, have selected your heart’s desire, and are in line at the checkout waiting to complete your purchase. The cashier scans your merchandise, and after announcing the total, asks in a detached voice – “AIR MILES?”

Well, at least she asked, right? Because when was the last time an online retailer asked if you collect AIR MILES rewards miles? Oh, that would be never.

Friends, it’s time to take matters into your own hands.

Now listen up, because once I tell you about this nifty little website, it will forever change the way you shop online – especially if you’re an AIR MILES collector. The kicker? It couldn’t be more simple!

Here’s what you do:

Step One: Visit airmilesshops.ca and sign in with your AIR MILES Collector Number.
Step Two: Select the retailer you want to shop with and shop as you normally would on their site.
Step Three: When you check out, you will earn AIR MILES reward miles on your purchase!*

(*Earn 1 AIR MILES reward mile for every $20 CDN that you spend per transaction per online store excluding shipping, handling and taxes.)

See? All you have to do is remember to sign in through the portal and you’ll automatically earn rewards. And since your privacy and security is of the utmost importance, each and every retailer that is under the “virtual roof” of airmilesshops.ca uses a secure SSL checkout. Hence, you’ll always have peace of mind when shopping online.

Curious about the participating brands? You should be! You’ll have a choice of over 100 major brand name stores, including Sears, The Apple Store Canada, Dell Canada, Chapters Indigo, Amazon.ca, eBay.ca, Lands’ End, LL Bean, Expedia, Bose, Victoria’s Secret and Hotels.com – just to name a few. My picks: ALDO Canada, Toys “R” Us, Old Navy Canada and Lancôme Canada, of course. BONUS: Top US retailers available through airmilesshops.ca include Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and JC Penny. Now that’s a rewarding cross-border shopping trip. (more…)

I know y’all have been waiting for me to post my thoughts on the Disney Social Media Moms Conference – and it’s coming, I swear! It’s just that I normally need some time to collect my thoughts and present them in a way that will be relevant and interesting to you. It was QUITE the epic conference, though, and I’ll be back later this week with all the good stuff!

However, in the meantime, I know how much you love my Frugal Fashion Recaps (check out my BlogHer’12: Frugal Fashion Recap here) – also known as “What to Wear to a Blogger Conference” – and so I thought it was only right to post another installment.

Last year, I was able to wear an entirely new wardrobe, consisting of four faboosh outfits, for under $200. This year, I wasn’t exactly counting pennies, but was nonetheless able to assemble a wide variety of outfits that allowed me to feel confident and pretty. Of course, the Disney Social Media Moms Conference posed an additional challenge; my wardrobe had to include conference day pieces, night ensembles, and even Disney Park outfits – ones that could keep me somewhat comfortable in the 35°C weather, that is.

And so here it is… a timeline of my outfits, the costs, and how I rocked them!

The very first conference event was on Thursday night – a Welcome Reception at Epcot. As mentioned in my I Have Nothing To Wear post, I decided to recycle an outfit from BlogHer’12 – a striped maxi dress from Banana Republic Factory Store. After looking through my pictures I realized that I don’t even have a photo from the night; I was too busy asking my little guys to model. Hence, the photo on the right is actually me from BlogHer last summer, but since I’m relatively the same height, weight and hair colour, you’ll just have to remove the hotel background and picture Epcot instead :)

The dress cost $49.72 (after discounts) - last year – which means, of course, there was no additional expense to my fashion budget for Disney Social Media Moms. I received exactly eight (8) compliments (hubby was counting!) so I’m officially declaring this do-over a fashion win.

Of course, it was the next day – Conference Day One – that I was really stressing about. Not only did I want to look appropriately professional for the conference, but there was also a Red Carpet Family Dinner at Disney’s Hollywood Studios which I just knew I wanted to dress to impress for. However, I also had no idea if I’d have a chance to change in between, so I had to opt for an outfit which would literally take me from “office” to “outing”.

(Not so easy when balancing highly air conditioned conference rooms and non-existent air conditioning at outdoor venues!)

In the end, I decided to go for a tried and true maxi dress – the easiest way to be fun and flirty and always dressed accordingly for the occasion. Of course, one of my first stops was once again the Banana Republic Factory Store. As soon as I laid eyes on this gorgeous maxi dress, I knew I had to have it!

With an abstract floral print and a figure-flattering empire waist, the dress was originally $110 – on sale for 40% off. Thankfully, I read In Touch every week – and always remember to save their GAP Factory Store and Banana Republic Factory Store coupons. Hence, I was able to receive an additional 20% off, making the dress only $52.80 after discounts. Have you been paying attention? That’s almost the same amount I spent on my maxi dress last year. Therefore, the sweet spot for Banana Republic Factory Store dresses is about $50 CAD – be sure not to purchase them at a higher price, because you just know there will be another sale around the corner.

I teamed it up with my prized Michael Kors Devon handbag and a pair of gladiator sandals from ALDO I’m so happy I held on to, even though conventional wisdom was telling me to toss them last year. It only took a few more seasons for the style to return, and now we’re in gladiator heaven with all the brands once again coming on board.

Since I already own the handbag and sandals, total cost for the outfit was $52.80! (Er… technically I should also factor in the new convertible bra I purchased, but let’s forget about that.) (more…)

Earlier this year, I had the unique opportunity to receive a guided tour of Loblaws at Maple Leaf Gardens by Chef Mark Russell, Executive Chef, and Nema McGlynn, In-Store Dietitian. The purpose of the tour was to identify food superstars and ways to make new and exciting choices – and, I happened to receive some insider tips straight from the culinary geniuses!

Today, I’d love to share how I’ve incorporated some of their suggestions into family favourites, in addition to letting you know about some of the hottest NEW items in the President’s Choice Insider’s Report. So without further ado, here are my Top 5 President’s Choice Faves for Summer 2013!

1. PC BLACK LABEL HATCHO MISO MARINADE

A game changer? You bet it is. Made with an authentic combination of black miso, sake and toasted sesame, use this rich, Japanese-inspired marinade to add a bold, sweet-salty hit to a wide array of beef, pork, chicken and seafood dishes. It’s now my go-to enhancer when making Malaysian Chicken Wings: Mix 4 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, ground black pepper to taste, 1 tablespoon dried basil – and a generous dash of the Hatcho Miso Marinade. Toss mixture with 12-15 chicken wings and deep fry or bake, as you prefer. Salty, sticky and with just the right amount of savoury-sweetness, the marinade lends a “je ne sais quoi” to all Asian dishes and stir frys.

2. PC SEAFOOD SEASONING RUB

ONE step to perfectly seasoned seafood. Yes, just one step. Simply grab your favourite fish (we love salmon or rainbow trout), sprinkle on the seasoning rub, and bake. Et voila! No guesswork, no messy cleanup, and no excuse not to try it. It imparts a smoky, Cajun-inspired flavour with plenty of kick for spice enthusiasts. Also delicious with shrimp, grilled lobster tails and even chicken. On the side: PC Organics New Potatoes tossed with olive oil, dried rosemary and PC MEMORIES OF Sicilia Coarse Sea Salt.

(more…)

Friends, I’ve been keeping something under wraps that I’ve just been dying to shout from the rooftops. Yes, I am pretty darned excited about this. (Hint: See that logo on the left? My awesome news *may* have something to do with this awesome brand.)

One of the very best parts of being a blogger is partnering with brands that I trust – and use – almost obsessively. And so it’s no surprise that a lot of the chatter and brand positioning on my blog surrounds things I love to indulge in: fashion, family, decor, beauty and travel.

However, one thing I don’t normally talk about? Household chores. 

But, it happens. The floors get vacuumed, the shutters are dusted and there’s a never-ending pile of laundry that I like to refer to as the “bottomless pit”.

Ah, the laundry.

I mean, think about it: I have two boys. Two rambunctious, messy little boys. And I’ve spent more than my fair share of time hanging out by the washing machine, being the annihilator of stains – ice cream stains, grass stains, chocolate stains, spaghetti stains – you name it, I’ve taken them on. Often with a gusto that should be reserved for fighting world wars. (OUT damn stain!) In fact, I fondly remember the very first time Ryder came home from the playground covered in dirt; I nearly had a meltdown thinking that his expensive little outfit had been ruined. Can’t you just picture me shaking my head with disapproval as I yanked the grotty t-shirt over his head?

However, I’ve learned and grown so much since then – now, I look at stains as a challenge, and a sign of an adventurous life!

So, when Clorox asked me to take on the role as their Clorox2 Stain Master Mom, I simply couldn’t refuse.

Think I’ll be reviewing a bunch of products and calling it a day? Think again.

This summer, I’ll embark on Stain Adventures – simply put, it means living life to the fullest, without worrying about getting a little messy. I’ll host a Stain Party with my girlfriends, have an exclusive Rate & Review program for readers, and even a sweet giveaway or two! In short, you’ll want to tune in all summer to see how you too can be Stain Adventurous – armed with Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products, you’ll have stains… solved!

Yet… What IS Clorox2? Well, contrary to popular notion, it’s NOT bleach. It’s not even a detergent. But it IS a lineup of products specially formulated to lift stains and contains brighteners to give colours a boost. Translation: it complements your favourite detergent to make it work even better. And, it’s designed to be safe for all loads – so you can add it to every load for cleaner and brighter clothes. (Yes, it’s pretty awesome!)

In the meantime, be sure to visit Clorox2 Canada on Facebook, where you’ll find tons of fun chatter, exclusive savings and giveaways, plus your chance to win $3000 towards your own adventure! And, definitely follow my #StainMasterMom tweets on Twitter – you’ll get the inside scoop on giveaways, laundry tips, product reviews and more. It’s going to be a blast!

Hands up if you’ve waited for this long weekend… oh, ever since the very first snowflake fell last winter? The unofficial start of summer is among us, and I CAN’T WAIT!

The second and third weekend in May is notoriously busy for us, as Ryder was born on Mother’s Day, and Reid was born on Victoria Day weekend. Hence, there’s always something going on, whether it be a trip to grandma’s, a family BBQ, or basically anything that involves cake. Ryder is really big on the whole cake thing.

However, this year we’ve added a little more craziness into the fold, as we’re preparing our backyard for a complete overhaul. Yes, construction for #ProjectPatio begins on Tuesday! We’ll have to remove our old, flimsy patio set, tear down the boys’ mini playground, and say goodbye to the crappy, dandelion filled grass – that will soon be replaced with a stamped concrete patio. We’ve been in our home for almost 6 years now… which means that I’ve waited for this moment for over 2100 days. Yikes.

Of course, this is the perfect time to acknowledge my official sponsor for #ProjectPatio…. it’s none other than Home Depot Canada!

I am so fortunate to team up with the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer; a company whose core values include respect for all people, giving back to communities and of course, excellent customer service. I simply can’t count the number of occasions where me (or more often than not, my husband) has stumbled into the Home Depot Canada seeking help on everything from paint (it’s too green!) to gardening advice (I think we killed it!) to home improvement SOS (um… we just found out we purchased the wrong sized door). Through it all, the Home Depot Canada has been our go-to store, allowing us to create the home of our dreams!

And now… I have a very special delivery arriving today: products generously sponsored by the Home Depot Canada to create the perfect patio! Want a sneak peek of what’s on the way? Okay, I’ll share!

HAMPTON BAY Millstone 7 Piece Dining Set
$1099.99

The Millstone 7pc Dining Set is a great addition to any patio space. Includes two swivel rocker dining chairs and four stationary dining chairs and one open cast top 74×42 dining table. Comes with seat pads for added comfort.

- Aged bronze powder coated finish
- Rust proof aluminum frame
- Weather resistant fabric
- Dining chairs stack for easy storage
- Traditional design coordinates well with all décor
- Optional umbrella sold separately
- 5 year limited warranty

I am in love with the intricate design of the chairs and table – it’s a modern twist on traditional patio sets, and lends a certain element of style and differentiation.

HAMPTON BAY Millstone Umbrella – 11 Feet
$199.00

Enjoy the shade from this Millstone11ft umbrella. Coordinates with the Millstone 7pc cast dining set. Includes a crank lift for easy set up.

- Aged bronze powder coated finish
- Rust proof aluminum frame
- Weather resistant fabric
- Easy crank function

I’ve always wanted an offset umbrella that is situated on the patio vs the table; it allows conversation to flow freely between guests, and offers a certain Californian inspiration that I adore. The Millstone umbrella’s base is sold separately for $69.99; don’t forget to add that to your cart!

Finally, you could say that the next item supplied by the Home Depot Canada made my husband’s day year life. Alright, the truth is, he hasn’t stopped talking about it. (It’s borderline insufferable, to tell you the truth, but I just can’t burst his bubble when he’s so very excited.) Et voila!

WEBER Genesis S-330 Natural Gas Grill
$1249.00

This stainless steel rendition of our top-of-the-line Genesis natural gas grill creates an atmosphere of pure grilling excellence. It’s high-heat Sear Station burner, three standard stainless steel burners, and electronic ignition system are just a few of the noteworthy features you won’t be able to resist.

- 38,000 BTU cooking system provides powerful performance
- The 10,600 BTU sear burner for on-demand searing
- 12,000 BTU flush mounted side burner for multi-tasking
- The stainless steel rod cooking grids have a 7mm diameter
- Includes a 10-foot flexible natural gas hose
- Two stainless steel work surface offer plenty of room

(Yes, I think I have achieved “Wife of the Year” status. Thanks Home Depot Canada!) 

We are waiting with baited breath for the delivery to arrive, and then we’ll be keeping it under wraps until the patio is complete (timeline is approximately 4-5 days). Follow me on Twitter (@Listen2Lena) where I’ll be sure to post photos of the transformation!

Until then, wishing you all a wonderful long weekend – Happy Victoria Day!

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

There are a few things I get really excited about:

1) Finding a $5 bill in an old jean jacket pocket.
2) Watching the sun stream through on a cloudy day.
3) Being given a choice. To me, choices = empowerment.

And speaking of choices, I’m so pleased to announce that on Tuesday, McDonald’s Canada introduced their NEW Signature McWrap! Now, you no longer have to sacrifice convenience to feel good about the food you enjoy – the new Signature McWrap combines delicious vegetables, juicy grilled or crispy seasoned chicken breast and tasty sauces in a whole-wheat tortilla.

Why the McWrap is Awesome:

- Each Signature McWrap is made with 100 per cent seasoned chicken breast (grilled or crispy) and served with delicious ingredients including shredded lettuce, crispy cucumber, and fresh tomato. So, busy moms on the go can enjoy a quick, convenient wrap and have a perfectly proportioned, balanced meal too.

- Anne Parks, Director of Menu Management for McDonald’s Canada, experimented with different recipes to complement the specific taste preferences of Canadians. Hence, the Canadian version of the Fiesta Signature McWrap had to have a crunch factor, which Parks created by adding chili lime seasoned tortilla strips. Canadians also love spicy food, says Parks, so she pumped up the heat in the Sweet Chili Signature McWrap. Parks also knew that a whole wheat wrap would be a hit in Canada. As a result, we are the first country to feature a whole wheat wrap for the menu item.

- The Signature McWrap is available in three mouth-watering flavours:

• Sweet Chili Signature McWrap – fresh cucumber and sweet spicy Thai sauce
• Fiesta Signature McWrap – tomatoes, chili lime seasoned tortilla strips, shredded Monterey Jack and light cheddar cheese and tomato salsa sauce
• Chicken and Bacon Signature McWrap – tomatoes and Jalapeno Monterey Jack cheese

However, the single most important reason that I’m so excited about the Signature McWrap comes down to one thing – choice. 80 per cent of lunch occasions take place on-the-go (The NPD Group/National Eating Trends) and as a busy Canadian mom, I love having the option of enjoying a delicious, satisfying, portable meal that offers something from every major food group. I appreciate being able to choose a spicy, Fiesta Signature McWrap if the mood strikes me – or, perhaps select my old standby, a Quarter Pounder with Cheese :) The introduction of the new Signature McWrap means that the entire family can satisfy their cravings – while making personal choices based on their tastes and nutritional preference. And since they retail for just $4.99 plus tax, they’re deliciously affordable, too. Now that’s a McWrap!

AWESOME ALERT! I have even MORE amazing news to share – next Thursday, May 23rd, I’ll be co-hosting an intimate event with Anne Parks, Director of Menu Management, at a McDonald’s restaurant in Toronto (Victoria Park and St. Clair location). We’ll have a picnic-style late lunch and sample the new Signature McWrap. You’ll have a chance to chat menu inspiration with Anne, and I’ll graciously help you taste test a delicious new McWrap (twist my arm!). Want to join us? Five (5) lucky Listen to Lena readers will receive an exclusive invitation to the event. You MUST be available for about an hour in early-mid afternoon on Thursday, May 23rd, and you’ll be responsible for your own transportation to/from the picnic. BONUS: We may have a savoury surprise or two up our sleeves! (more…)

I get it. I really do. I know that every time I publish a review of a resort, vacation or hotel, at the back of your mind you may be thinking, “Yeah, but was it all roses because you received special treatment? Did they go over and above because they knew you were reviewing their property?”

Okay, so the truth is – YES – often perks and rewards are bestowed upon us media folk. But certainly, it’s to be expected; it’s the same reason you clean your home before company arrives, grab the best wine and/or break out the fine silverware. You want your guests to leave with a wonderful impression. Because the truth is, if they knew that you actually just dusted in front of the picture frames instead of lifting them off the shelf, and that the wine currently stocked in your wine cellar was purchased 15 minutes before your guests arrived – maybe they wouldn’t tell your friends about the perfect dinner party you hosted. And that’s all we really want, isn’t it? Kudos. Pats on the back. Good press.

Hence, when writing reviews, I’m always sensitive to the “bonuses” that members of the media receive, and refrain from gushing or being overly obnoxious about them. You will rarely see me Facebook a perk, freebie or something else that is unique to my situation as a blogger; my attitude is, if my reader won’t be offered special treatment, there’s no need to prove that I was.

So, it gives me great pleasure to tell you about a wonderful – no, magical – example of exemplary customer service that we experienced this past Sunday at Walt Disney Resort in Orlando, Florida. Staying at the Contemporary Resort for the Disney Social Media Moms Conference, read on for an example of the Disney Difference – not because I am media personnel (he had no way of knowing), but because I am a person. Here’s what happened.

We were booked for the 4:20pm Magical Express to take us to the airport for our return flight. Since we were flying out of Buffalo, we were able to take advantage of Disney’s Resort Airline Check-in. Simply put: we could check our bags and receive our boarding pass right there at the resort, and then jump on a complimentary shuttle to the airport. After ridding ourselves of our heavy luggage, we decided to make our way to Hollywood Studios, to ride Star Tours… oh, 8-10 times.

However, at some point between the 35°C heat and the repeated passage on the simulator ride, Ryder began to feel sick. All the classic symptoms of heat exhaustion, really; irritability, drowsiness, complaining of thirst, and an overall feeling of malaise. And, since I was so wrapped up in making sure he was okay, I did something really silly – when I checked my phone, I thought “3:45 pm” read as “2:45 pm”. So yeah, by the time I figured out my mistake and we booted it back to the Contemporary Resort, we had missed our 4:20 pm Magical Express.

Truth be told, I wasn’t too concerned. I knew there would be another leaving at 4:50pm, 5:20pm, 5:50pm… etc. And, since our flight wasn’t until 7:20pm and our bags were already checked, there was no real emergency. We just had to make sure there was room on the 4:50pm bus. So, after collecting our carry-ons from bell services, I ventured to the front of the hotel and explained the situation to the Magical Express coordinator.

Me: (Eyeing his name tag) Hi Greg!
Greg: Hello there! How are you?
Me: Well, I have a small problem.
Greg: How can I help?

(Note: Greg didn’t say, “What’s the problem?” – rather, he immediately jumped in and committed to helping me find a solution. Love that.)

Me: Well, my little guy was under the weather in the park, and in turn we missed our Magical Express.
Greg: That’s not a problem.

I followed him over to a podium where I assumed he would check for availability on the next shuttle. Instead, he simply grabbed a taxi chit, filled in a few details, and said,

“Are you ready to leave now? Or would you like to cool off in the hotel for a while? I can arrange for towels if you’d like to freshen up.”

“Um, no…” I sputtered. “You really don’t have to do that. We can take the next Magical Express, I don’t want to put you out.”

“You’re not putting me out”, he laughed. “Everything is already taken care of. This chit even includes a tip, so unless the taxi driver sings and dances for you, you don’t even have to worry about that. Honestly. Just go inside, rest a bit, and when you’re ready to leave, the taxi will be waiting here for you.”

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Listen, you’ve got a little guy who’s under the weather. And the last thing you need is to board a bus that makes multiple stops. Relax; it’s my pleasure to make your vacation the best it can be, right up until you board your flight.”

And THAT’S the Disney Difference. 

“Well Greg,” I said. “You’re so awesome, and you know what? You’ve helped someone who has the ability to tell the world how amazing you are,” I said. “I’m a Disney Social Media Mom, and you just know I’m going to put this on social media! Can I take a picture with you?”

Stunned, Greg posed for a photo. (Thanks again Greg!)

I’ve come to realize a trend.

Every time I go away for a press trip, vacation, weekend getaway, etc… I always arrive home just before midnight on a Sunday night.

Some may say I endeavour  to make the very most of my time away, down to the very last minute. And I suppose they would be right: we had the most glorious time at the Disney Social Media Moms Conference, and we simply did not want the magic to end.

Of course, inevitably, comes Monday morning. And what comes with the territory? The “I’m-back-but-too-tired-to-blog-today” post.

Exhibits A, B and C:

Allure of the Seas – too tired: Back to Life; Back to Reality
Disney Fantasyland – boo hoo I’m pooped: Arriving Home from Vacation with Children…
Visit Orlando – I’m exhausted so just read this recipe: Orange Granita with Balsamic and Mint Strawberries

Yup. That’s me – telling y’all that while I love you and am happy to be home, I’m just gonna go find my wits about me. And do some laundry. Oh, the endless laundry.

Hence, this time I’ll just keep it real. I’ll be back as soon as I can figure out what day it is, where I packed my makeup, and why the hell it’s only 4°C in MAY, with a FROST WARNING. In the meantime, here’s a picture from the Sunshine State – while in Orlando, I actually managed to enroll in a new school! That’s right, I’m now officially a student at Monsters University :)

(Disney Social Media Moms were treated to an exclusive advanced screening of the movie – it’s FABULOUS! One of my favourite Disney PIXAR movies ever – the whole family adored it.) See ya real soon!

Okay, let’s just get straight to the point: It’s sunny outside.

IT’S FINALLY SUNNY OUTSIDE! 

Yes, it’s beginning to look a lot like summer. And if there’s one product that is synonymous with summer, it’s Hawaiian Tropic. A few days ago, I posted an exclusive sampling opportunity for Hawaiian Tropic’s Silk Hydration Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.

Why it’s awesome:

The Silk Hydration Sunscreen incorporates UVA and UVB sun protection with hydrating ribbons infused with silk protein and shea butter. And on top of Hawaiian Tropic’s trusted formula, you’ll also receive 12-hour moisture, a silky, luxurious feel and waterproof protection. Did I forget to mention the signature coconut fragrance? Smells like summer!

For those who were lucky enough to grab a sample, enjoy! I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do. And for those who missed out, fear not… it’s a #HawaiianTropicCA Twitter Party!

We’ve got TONS of amazing gift baskets to give away, including Visa Gift Cards ($$$!) and Hawaiian Tropic Summer Kick Off Kits! The kits are worth approximately $75 and include:

Sarong - Hat - Hawaiian Tropic Towel - 2 Silk Hydration Sunscreen Lotions (SPF 30 & SPF 50) - 1 Silk Hydration After Sun Moisturizer - 2 Island Radiance Self Tanning Lotion (Medium and Medium Dark).  (more…)

Avid readers of my blog will know that my very dear friend - fellow blogger Diana of Toronto Teacher Mom - has an alter ego: in fact, she’s been leading a very crafty second life, if you please.

It’s always a pleasure to share some of her handmade cards with you – I mean really, who doesn’t appreciate a beautiful work of art? And I’m a huge admirer of clean lines, balanced embellishments and complementary colour schemes. Translation: her pieces are drool worthy.

Well, folks – she’s at it again! I am LOVING her newest designs. From whimsical dinosaurs to spectacular baby bumps, her handmade cards are a treat to behold.

Eye Candy of the Day: 

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There was a time when I was all about saving money. Don’t get me wrong; I’m much too naturally cheap frugal to allow myself to go on an adulterated spending spree. However, you could say that my emphasis has shifted from saving money (which I still do aggressively) to making money while spending money. You know – taking advantage of all the perks and benefits available to Canadians who like to be rewarded for their shopping habits. It’s sensible, no?

So when I was recently approached by CAA to discover the savings and rewards associated with being a member, it went something like this:

“I don’t need my car towed, thanks.”
“Well there’s more to CAA than automobile assistance.”
“Hello? I said I don’t need a tow.”
“Um, and I said that there are REWARDS to being a CAA member that you really should look into.”
“Sure, sure. I think someone needs a tow.”

Okay, that’s not exactly how the conversation went down. But hands up if you associate CAA with roadside assistance? Yeah, I’m guilty too. In fact, I can say with complete honesty that CAA was never on my radar as a source of savings and rewards, and for a shopaholic like myself, I really should have known better.

Two words: MIND BLOWN.

First, yes, CAA provides automobile assistance. I mean, that’s a given no? But did you know that CAA members also receive exclusive savings on travel, sporting events, shopping, insurance, dining and entertainment – and more? It’s true! And, you’ll also be eligible to earn CAA Dollars at participating merchants – every CAA Dollar you earn equals $1.00 CAD, and you can redeem CAA Dollars towards your next dream vacation, travel merchandise, membership renewal, gift memberships or even your insurance renewal premium.

So, even though I don’t need a tow, I do need a top. And maybe some capris. And definitely a dress.

Armed with my brand new CAA Membership Card (generously supplied by CAA), I was out and about shopping yesterday evening. On my radar, the Banana Republic Factory Store, to find an outfit or two for the upcoming Disney Social Media Moms Conference. (Read about my fashion panic here.)

Bonus? CAA Members receive an additional 10% off regular and sale merchandise. Score!

Upon entering the store I found THE perfect maxi dress for Conference Day One (pictured front). It was light, flowy, and featured an abstract floral pattern in one of my favourite colours for summer. The price: $109.99, less 40%. And when I presented my membership card at checkout, I instantly saved another 10%. A girl can get used to this! (more…)

I think it’s quite apparent that I was made to be a mother of boys – every time my sons’ hair grows long enough to require any sort of grooming, I schlep them off to Melonhead to have their heads shaved fuzzy smooth.

(Don’t think I’d be able to do the same with little girls!)

Truly, I just can’t be bothered. And since both my little dudes sweat buckets, trust me, less is more.

And so today’s post is a good ol’ fashioned Before and After – featuring Ryder and Reid, and their newly shorn locks.

Et voila! I’m off the hook for any sort of grooming attention for at least the next three months. The boys love their new hairdos, and are ready for the heat! Bring on summer!

Now that the warmer temps have finally arrived, it’s safe to talk about suncare without enduring Boo! and Hiss! from my collective audience.

(Technically, y’all should be applying sunscreen all year round. You do know that, don’t you?)

Still, there seems to be a consensus that once the jackets come off and the sunroofs come down, it’s time to break out the sunscreen. However, until recently, it was hard to find product that:

a) wasn’t thick and chalky
b) didn’t take eons to slather on, leaving a gross, sticky feel
c) gave the skin an odd, whitish appearance

Sounds like your sunscreen? Then you’re using the wrong sunscreen, mate.

There’s only one sunscreen for me – Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30. It’s the only sunscreen that has hydrating ribbons for continuous in-sun moisture, which means that it acts more like a high-end moisturizer than a drugstore sunscreen. When paired with the Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion, you are ready to rock and roll.

(I *may* have used Ryder’s Hot Wheels to prop up the product on my snazzy Hawaiian Tropic beach towel. Okay, I admit that I did. A girl’s gotta improvise, you know!)

So here’s the deal. The Silk Hydration Sunscreen incorporates UVA and UVB sun protection with hydrating ribbons infused with silk protein and shea butter. And on top of Hawaiian Tropic’s trusted formula, you’ll also receive 12-hour moisture, a silky, luxurious feel and waterproof protection. Did I forget to mention the signature coconut fragrance? Smells like summer!

And after you’re done enjoying the outdoors, relax with the Silk Hydration After Sun Lotion. The dual ribbon formula pampers and nourishes your skin after a day in the sun with ribbons of aloe, which provides rich, luxurious moisture with cooling effects. With mango, shea butter and 24-hours of hydration, it will be your go-to lotion all year round! (more…)