Warning: Please do not attempt to duplicate this haul at home. It’s pretty much a grab of epic, “Start the car!” proportions. However, if you would like to try your hand at the savings, here’s what you need to do:

1. Find a copy of In Touch Magazine. Lately, around the 8-10th page, they’ve been including coupons for an additional 20% off your $75 purchase at GAP Factory Store. BONUS: the coupon is valid in both the US and Canada – so awesome.

2. Cross the border and visit a GAP Factory Store in the US, preferably when they’re offering an additional 30-40% selected items. Yes, I know I just stipulated that you can use the coupon in Canada, but c’mon, we all know that we Canadians are treated most unfairly when it comes to pricing. Hence, a sale/coupon combo in Canada is rarely the same dealio as in the States.

3. Have a child that you can load up on clearance clothes in one size bigger. After all, what good is an end-of-season sale if you can’t stock up for the next season?

4. Patience, my shopping Jedi-in-training. You’ll need about 20 minutes to sort through a messy clearance rack to uncover the best deals for the cutest clothes. Remember the first rule of clearance cruising: grab now, sort later – especially if you come across anything with Star Wars or a licensed character.

So, if you’re following me, here’s the math: GAP Factory Store Sale + An Additional 30-40% Selected Items + An Additional 20% Coupon = Something Like This:

Now here’s where I usually rub my hands together in glee, and try to explain to my husband just how awesome I am… but he’s not really interested because he wants to go to the food court to grab a slice of pizza. So, I thought I’d save my excitement and share the deets with people whom I know will appreciate it:

Total Cost Before Discounts: $224.88
Total Cost After Discounts: $58.26
Total Savings…. 74%!!!

Wooo hooo! I’ve pretty much got Ryder’s summer tees all stocked up for next summer, at 1/4 of the price I would have paid had I shopped at regular price, plus a few extras for this fall. And THAT is what I call a HAUL!

Did you have a chance to join our @ShopCatch #HMKIDS Twitter Party yesterday afternoon? It was pretty fabulous. Jam-packed with back-to-school fashions, customer favourites, tons of giggles and – of course – H&M gift card giveaways GALORE, it was a great way to spend the lunch hour.

If you missed out, fear not – here’s a style preview of H&M Canada’s hottest back-to-school fashions for Fall 2012. Inspired by everything BRIT and BRIGHT, H&M has all the basics covered, with flair:

(more…)

Last week I shared with y’all the HIGH-larious video from the Executive Managing Director of Zellers… sans pants, of course. (I’m still chuckling at his striped boxer-briefs.) I just love that Zellers, rather than tiptoeing around the subject of their impending closure, is actively participating in its transition by reaching out to customers via social media. In fact, I can’t remember a time when I was more engaged by Zellers… I’m actually sad they won’t be around to put forth more crazily creative campaigns!

When the votes were in, customers had opted for a coupon offering $10 off when you spend $40 or more on winter boots. (Hurry! The coupon is valid until November 17th at midnight; you can print it here.)

This time around, meet Carol, a manager at Zellers Store #245 (keepin’ it alive!)…

More giggles! I’ve definitely worked with “Carols” over the course of my career – sweet, lovable, mom-jeans-wearing-40-somethings that you feel you can unload your troubles to. Let’s hope Carol lands on her feet – maybe at the unnamed American retailer? (more…)

EDIT: Redeem Your Coupon TODAY Peeps!

It’s no surprise that Cheerios + Chocolate is a winning combination. In fact, Ryder – who regularly shuns every breakfast cereal imaginable in favour of his beloved O’s – literally fell off his chair when I placed a bowl of the chocolatey goodness in front of him.

(In case you’re wondering, one of the perks of being a Life Made Delicious Connector is advanced enjoyment of General Mills treats – therefore we’ve been enjoying Chocolate Cheerios chez Lena for the last few weeks!)

Just a few reasons your mouth should be watering:

- Naturally flavoured with real cocoa, whole grains, and only 9g of sugar per serving
- Is a source of fibre and is low in fat
- Tastes Delicious!!! (of course)

Want to try them for yourself? Of course you do! For a limited time, try Chocolate Cheerios for FREE through WebSaver.ca. You’ll have to sign up for a free account and choose at least three (3) coupons (won’t be difficult, I’m sure!)

Then, for ONE DAY ONLY – June 21st, 2011 – everyone will be able to redeem their coupon for a free box of Chocolate Cheerios.

And, don’t forget to check out Life Made Delicious for easy recipes your whole family will love.

I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Summer’s here! And what better way to welcome the warm weather than to accessorize with some gorgeous pieces from Foxy Originals! BONUS: Listen to Lena! readers will save 30% off everything online with coupon code listentolena30.

This season, I’m all about wearing light, airy cotton – and finishing off the look with Foxy’s Cotton Necklace.

“Connect the dots for the prettiest of patterns with this reversible duo of designs and colours. Available in Pink/ Turquoise, Brown/ Yellow and Purple/ Grey combinations.”

The promotion runs until Sunday, June 26th. Shipping is a flat $8 within North America – orders over $75 ship for FREE (sweet!).

Click here to shop at Foxy Originals.

I love receiving goodies to review, especially when they are of the snacking variety. Normally, I’d post a picture of the product, my feedback, and details for how you too can enjoy the yummy goodness.

But this review is slightly different. Today, I’d like to take you through a series of events.

Day #1: Received three varieties of Dole Fruit ‘n Crisp: Apple Cinnamon, Peach and Apple Pear.

If you haven’t had the pleasure of trying them yourself, Dole Fruit ‘n Crisp bowls feature juicy Dole fruit in a fruit sauce, each with its own crispy, crumbly topping made with whole grain oats and brown sugar. You can enjoy them at room temperature, chilled from the fridge or heated briefly in the microwave (definitely the most droolicious way).

Since I love Dole fruit cups (and indulged quite heavily during my pregnancy with Reid) it was a no-brainer for me; I was quite certain I would enjoy this product.

Day #2: I tried my first Fruit ‘n Crisp (Apple Cinnamon). Okaaay… this is a fruit cup? It seriously tastes like DESSERT. And not just any dessert – like sinful Apple Crumble Pie dessert. Can it be true? Have I found a delicious, low fat option for my favourite guilty pleasure?

Let’s do the math:

1 slice Apple Crumble Pie: 400 calories, 18g fat
1 cup Dole Fruit ‘n Crisp: 160 calories, 3.5g fat

It is immediately evident to me that I can have two cups without doing too much damage.

Day #3: Hubby calls me from home, where he is watching the boys while I run a few errands.

“We’re hungry,” he moans.
“We just ate dinner!” I reply.
“I know, but I could use a little snack,” he says with a sigh.
“Try the new Dole Fruit ‘n Crisp bowls, they’re in the pantry,” I suggest.
“I don’t think so.”
“You’ll like them! Just leave one for me, so I can take pictures for the blog,” I warn.
“No thanks, I’ll find something else.”

I shrugged. The husband isn’t a fruit-dessert kind of person; Ryder hates soft textures and Reid can’t open a bowl by himself. Whatever, more for me.

Day #3 – LATER: I arrive home to find the countertop littered with this:

A very apologetic husband explained: “Those were the best fruit cups I’ve ever had! Ryder had two all by himself, and Reid kept crying for more! The topping is delicious!!!”

“But what about leaving one for a photo?” I inquired.

Hubby thought about it. “Well,” he reasoned, “surely the fact that we ate five in one sitting should prove they’re pretty awesome?” 

I concur.

Dole Fruit ‘n Crisps are a convenient anytime snack. A must try! And, for a limited time, Canadians can save $1.25 on any purchase of Dole Fruit ‘n Crisp with this coupon from Save.ca.

Sweet Groupon for Canadians today! Spend $10 for $20 worth of merchandise at Old Navy. Groupon is available at all locations across Canada, in-store only. Expires July 30th, limit one.

Click here to purchase today’s Groupon.

Heading on over to the “Fun and Only” Canada’s Wonderland this summer? My friend Justine over at Canadian Daily Deals has found a plethora of corporate discount codes that you’ll definitely want to take advantage of!

In the past, corporate discounts were strictly for employees only – but Canada’s Wonderland has relaxed their policy over the last few years. Specifically, the rates are offered to “employees, family and friends” and no company ID is required. Well, if you pay for Rogers services, have an AmEx or drive a Toyota, I’d say you’re a “friend”!

There is no limit to the number of tickets you can grab, but you must purchase them online and print them out at the time of purchase (so make sure you have access to a printer). Enjoy!


Code: AMEXEMP
American Express Discount – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
American Express Day – Saturday, June 25, 2011
Regular ticket valid June 25th 2011 only : $29.20
Regular 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Regular Single Day E-Ticket (age 3- 59, over 48′ tall) : $36.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Code: STARLIGHT or WINDSEEKER
Starlight / WindSeeker Promo – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
Regular (Single Day) 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Regular E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $36.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Code: ROGERS2011
Rogers Employee Discount – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
Regular (Single Day) 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Regular 3-Day Advance E-Ticket with All-You-Can-Eat lunch*: $42.98
Regular Jr/Sr 3-Day Advance E-Ticket with All-You-Can-Eat lunch*: $35.98
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32
*lunch available between 1:30-3:30 PM only

Code: RIM2011
Research In Motion Employee Discount – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
Regular (Single Day) 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Code: CHRYSLER
Chrysler Employee Discount – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
Regular (Single Day) 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Code: TOYOTA
Toyota Employee Discount – Operating days May 8 – Oct 31, 2011
Regular (Single Day) 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Code: GMCANADA11
GM CANADA Discount – Operating days May 8- Oct 31, 2011
Regular 3-Day Advance E-Ticket (age 3-59, over 48″ tall): $33.99
Pay Once Visit Twice E-Ticket (age 3+, over 48″ tall): $46.02
Jr/Sr E-Ticket (age 3+, under 48″ tall, 60+): $28.32

Last year, Rogers’ corporate rate was $31.99, so it’s slightly higher this year – but you’re still saving big time over admission at the gate.

Click here to visit Canada’s Wonderland’s Corporate Partners Site.

For the peeps who have been loving the stick on decoration in Ryder’s room, now is the perfect time to grab a few adorable (or stylish) decals for your own mini projects! Until May 28th, save 25% off all regular priced items (in store only) from DeSerres.

Not in the mood for wall art? That’s okay, because you can also dabble in Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, Creative DIY, Scrapbooking, Framing, Jewellery Making, Furniture, Books, Card Making and more!

As a former avid scrapbooker, I’d literally spend hours combing the shelves for paper, stickers and accents. The selection in unreal.

Click here to find a DeSerres near you. Click here to print your 25% off coupon.

p.s. Want to be the first to know about all their fabulous sales and promotions? Follow DeSerres on Facebook and Twitter!

Here we go! My weekly (sometimes) roundup of some of the hottest deals for Canadians! Courtesy of Canadian Daily Deals, here are my picks:

Shoppers Drug Mart: Free $10 Gift Card With $20 Product Purchase
Banana Republic Canada: 40% Off Tops and Shorts (May 24 5-8pm)
Sears Canada: 40% Off Regular Priced Women’s Fashions (May 24)
Old Navy Canada: 20% Off Coupon In-store and Online (May 24)
Smashbox Cosmetics: 20% Off Friends and Family (Until May 27)
Knorr Canada: Buy 3 Knorr Products Get 1 Free Coupon
Wagjag: Free $5 Credit Coupon Code For New Signups

… and more!

Click here to visit Canadian Daily Deals.

My Reno-cation wrap up continues with my main bathroom. This was perhaps one of the hardest rooms to makeover, specifically because:

a) It was orange before. Yes, orange. Like a bright, happy, Home Depot orange.
b) I liked it orange.
c) No one else liked it orange.

BEFORE

I’m also pretty excited about my new shower curtain. Purchased from Sears during their recent White Sale, it features a gorgeous black and sateen silver damask pattern. It pairs perfectly with the milkiness of the light green, and as I’d been lusting after it for ages, I just couldn’t resist. Word on the street is that there are coordinating bath mats too… perhaps I’ll let my Visa take a breather before I explore that option ;)

Only a few rooms to go!

Hey Fabulous Readers -

I’ve got a great new sponsor – It’sYourDeal.ca!

Now you may be thinking… another Daily Deal site?! Well, yes. But it’s a GOOD thing. It means more savings, more chances to try new places for less, and more chances to win awesome prizes! I am a loyal subscriber to over 10 group buying sites, and so far, my wallet has thanked me :)

Now It’sYourDeal.ca is not up and running just yet, but I’ve promised to help spread the word about their fabulous prize giveaway. To celebrate the launch of their upcoming website, It’sYourDeal.ca is giving away a host of great prizes to some lucky entrants once they go live. Check back often as new prizes will be added regularly – in the meantime, be sure to sign up to be entered to win!

Some of my fave prizes up for grabs:

$50 Starbucks Gift Card
$50 Danier Gift Card (x2!)
$100 GUESS Gift Card
$50 Future Shop Gift Card
$50 Marshalls Gift Card

… and many more!

They’ll be expanding into more cities across Canada soon, so keep checking back for more opportunities to save. Can’t wait to see what’s in store for us!

Click here to visit It’sYourDeal.ca.

Have you checked out Canadian Daily Deals lately? You won’t want to miss out!

SportChek: Buy A Bike, Get 20% off Cycling Apparel and Accessories
Shoppers Drug Mart: Save 20% Off Seniors’ Day (May 12)
The Body Shop Canada: $10 Off Any $20 Purchase With SPC
MAC Cosmetics Canada: Free Shipping Code
Murale: 20x Optimum Points With $50 Skin Care Purchase
Banana Republic Factory Store: 50% Off Summer Styles
Michaels Canada: 20% Off Entire Purchase Friends and Family Coupon
Sears Canada: Save 25-30% Off Outlet 3 Days Only
The Bay: Up To 70% Off Duvets Coupon
Moores Canada: Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entire Store

… and many more!

Click here to visit Canadian Daily Deals.

You may have noticed that I’ve got a sweet new sponsor – SweetMommyDeals.com! They’re the newest daily deal provider that you should have on your radar – especially since they cater to fabulous (and frugal) mommies in the Greater Toronto Area.

Now it’s no secret that I’m happy to blog deals from different sources – and the thing I love about daily deal sites is that (most of them) have the consumer in mind. SweetMommyDeals is just one of the sites I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with, and I’m happy to share the following info with my readers:

- SweetMommyDeals is a daily deal website and an online community of moms who seek exciting products, services, activities or experiences for their children (0-12 years old), families or even themselves. They work together with online and local merchants to provide a fantastic “mom deal” everyday of 40-100% off and offer these for a limited time to GTA communities.

- It’s free to sign up! And, during the months of April and May. SweetMommyDeals will donate $1 for every sign up to Three to Be - a phenomenal charity in support of the treatment and therapy of children’s neurological disorders. Click here to read more about Three to Be’s story, mission and how you can get involved.

- Plus, you simply must “Like” them on Facebook – when they reach 1,000 fans, they’ll be giving away Diapers for a WHOLE YEAR to one lucky winner! They currently have 781 fans… let’s try to see if they can give away the load of diapers this week!

Now today they’ve offered their very first deal, and it’s a sweet one:

HIGHLIGHTS:

• $2 Gift Certificate can be used on any product in the store
• Can be used at any location within Canada
• Serving ice cream since 1945; Premium ice cream and cakes
• Shakes, blasts, sundaes, hand-rolled waffle cones and more

Grab yours before they’re gone! Click here to visit SweetMommyDeals.com.

As a mom, I can officially let y’all know that I don’t want a photo frame (got those, lots of ‘em), chocolates (straight to my hips, no thanks) or flowers (they’ll just die anyways). I want a homemade treat – something that is unique and personal. Failing that, just go to la Vie en Rose, please.

This Mother’s Day, check out these super sweet looks (click to enlarge):

And, since I’m a HUGE fan of la Vie en Rose Aqua, you can bet I was drooling over their swimwear (shown here in the MIAMI collection):

Yes please! I’d love any of these designs.. complete with a pair of tickets to a sunny destination, of course!

Now if you’re shopping today, la Vie en Rose members can grab 35% off your entire purchase with this coupon. (Regular priced items only.) I normally would direct you to sign up for their mailing list, but sadly, it looks like the site has been up and down the entire weekend. So I’m crossing my fingers that you’ll be able to print it off and/or shop online, but if not, here’s a screen shot – simply click, print and present.

Happy Shopping!