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.

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A few weeks ago, fifty (50) lucky readers were given the opportunity to try out the NEW Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor. Now you all know how much I love it (and if you missed my rave review, be sure to check it out here), but it’s often helpful to hear more than one opinion, especially if you’ve been on the fence about purchasing an item.

Hence, I’m so pleased to share feedback from my amazing readers, who took the time to thoroughly test the product and provide detailed feedback on their experience. (For those readers who didn’t submit their review, even after several attempts to contact you – consider yourself blacklisted. Hahaha just joking. But not really. #blacklist)

So without further ado… here’s what you need to know about the Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor:

LOVE…

Darlene: “Since I received my Schick Intuition razor I can notice a difference in my skin’s hydration after shaving. I have eczema and am very sensitive to cheap shaving products, which cause immediate skin irritation. The blend of coconut milk and almond oil moisturizes from the very first use. Best of all its smells great!”

Marcy: “I have never had the luxury of handling a razor so well. The easy-to-use flexible head was perfect for those ‘ouchy’  areas around the back of the legs. The built-in lather made is so convenient and fast to shave without having to utilize any soap. As soon as I opened it, I so loved the coconut-almond smell! Yum! The four blade action was amazing, it is so nice to see a women’s razor that stands up to the men’s four razor, now we’re equals! The best part: my legs have never been so smooth!”

Ashley: “Schick Intuition was soothing and calming. I felt like my legs were getting pampered as it gently glided up my leg. I loved the scent of it as well! I couldn’t helped but dance a little in the shower as the joy of shaving just boost up 10 folds.”

Anne: “I have psoriatic arthritis in my hands but I found this razor very easy to hold on to in the shower, it was ergonomically perfect and didn’t get too slippery to hold. I love almond oil and when I started to shave the aroma reminded me of marzipan; which reminded me of my grandmother (I know that was a bit off topic, but its where the smell took me).”

Lori: “I love the fact that all I need is the razor. It is so great to not have to fight with a can of shave cream/gel or deal with having my hands covered with it! What a great idea. I am interested to see how long solid lasts. I have been using this razor for the past two weeks and there is not a significant reduction in its size. The four blades make for great coverage and faster shaving which is also a bonus as it cuts down on time. The coconut milk and almond oil is a wonderful scent.”

LUKEWARM…

Megan: “The razor part is amazing and gives such a smooth shave. Just wish the cream part was wider at the bottom instead of the top as I seem to use the bottom up long before the top or blade is done.”

Tricha: “I love the smooth shave, WITH NO SHAVING CREAM. My only issue is the price for the refills but with coupons or sale price, I will definitely buy it.”

Judy: “I loved that it didn’t feel like you were shaving because you couldn’t feel the blades. It left my legs feeling very smooth and I had no nicks. It also seemed to pivot smoothly and easily got into those hard to reach spots. The only thing I suggest is that you shave in the shower with it and not the tub, as the conditioning solid does disappear quicker when constantly exposed to water in the tub.”

Donna: “I like how it also moisturizes my legs and leaves them really smooth. What I don’t like very much about it is that the bar on it melts really fast in my shower especially when I need to rinse the hairs off the blade. Then all I’m left with is just a sharp blade and I just end up using regular shaving gel.”

LOATHE…

Janice: “I like this razor – it’s extremely hydrating and it glides across your skin so you don’t feel the blades. The moisturizing stick that surrounds the razors themselves is perhaps too plentiful in the beginning, since my first two shaves weren’t particularly close. My only advice to Schick would be to forego providing the holding cradle with suction cup. My experience with these has shown they never stay up – and this was no exception.”

(I think “Loathe” is a strong word – and apologies to Janice for placing her helpful review in that section – but I love alliteration and couldn’t think of another verb that began with the letter “L”!)

To all the fabulous reviewers – please know that all feedback has been sent straight to Schick for review and consideration. Thank you so much for your time and efforts in making this Rate and Review program a success! To reward those who sent in their review on time, I’m pleased to announce the winner of the $100 Visa Gift Card is… Darlene! Congratulations!

And now, with summer around the corner, who’s ready to get their legs in tip-top condition?

Click here to learn more about Schick Intuition razors.

Three questions for you:

1. Would you be more likely to book your annual checkup… if your doctor was Ryan Gosling?
2. Would that time of the month be more bearable… if the government subsidized chocolate?
3. Would mornings be better… with a live-in Starbucks barista?

While we’re at it, here’s another one: Would you be more likely to take your daily vitamins…if they tasted like gummy candy?

The answer to all of the questions above… YES!

Taking vitamins has always been an issue for me. They’re big, chalky and have *the worst* aftertaste. For too many years I’d purchase bottle after bottle, trying in vain to supplement my less-than-stellar diet. Then, they’d sit in my cupboard. Until they expired. And sometimes, for a year or two after. Why? Because they’re big, chalky and have *the worst* aftertaste, of course.

(In fact, I recently stumbled upon an old box of multivitamins that expired in April 2009. Durr….)

I’m not alone. Most readers agree that they’d be more likely to stick with a vitamin or supplement regime if they didn’t have to swallow horse pills. Because when it comes down to it, the best multivitamin is the one you actually take.

Now you all know that I’m a fan of Adult Essentials Gummies. Earlier this year, they generously sent a supply of their gummy vitamins and supplements for me and my husband to enjoy. And I think “enjoy” is the key word here – great tasting, gummy vitamins in the most delicious fruit flavours? Twist my arm!

Of course, I haven’t been popping all of the products on a daily basis like candy – because despite appearances, they’re not. There is a very real danger in over-supplementing, especially if your diet is packed with vitamins and minerals. Hence, your first step is to speak with a nutritionist to help identify some of the gaps in your diet and how certain vitamins can help you meet your RDI. When you have, Adult Essentials are an easy, great tasting way to keep you at your optimal health and performance.

(For those wondering, my diet is kind of lame. Though I’m working on it!) (more…)

Two months ago, I asked y’all to suggest some road trip ideas -

“Where should my family’s next travels take us? A road trip to Montreal? Perhaps Ottawa? Or maybe a weekend shopping in the States? I’m looking for your best road trip ideas from Toronto – no more than 5-6 hours away.”

Why was I asking? I had racked up a ton of Scotia Rewards on my handy little Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, and wanted to use them to offset the cost of a fun family road trip. So how did I earn enough points to fund our hotel stay?

It’s simple. Not only did I receive the introductory 20,000 bonus points with my first purchase because I signed up for the card early (new cardholders now earn 15,000 bonus points on their first purchase – worth $150 in travel!); I also earned 4x Scotia Rewards points for every $1 I spent at eligible gas stations, grocery stores, on dining and entertainment. Translation: while I was out and about spending money on my everyday purchases like groceries and gas, I was actually earning rewards that brought me that much closer to a much-needed vacation. Four times closer, in fact.

So, armed with ideas for a March Break mini vacation or staycation, I was ready to cash in my rewards for a fabulous little hotel stay in Montreal. And then, this happened -

“We are pleased to invite you to the 2013 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration. This invitation-only professional conference for social media-minded moms and dads will take place May 8-12, 2013 at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida.”

EEK! Okay, for those not in the know, receiving an invitation to #DisneySMMoms is like receiving a golden ticket to a chocolate factory – but better, because Disney chocolate is shaped like Mickey’s ears.

However, as the invitation came through right around the time I was planning to book our mini getaway, I had an interesting dilemma on my hands. You see, while most costs are covered at the Disney Social Media Moms conference, I did have to come up with airfare: four plane tickets to be exact. So, I had to make the following decision – and quickly:

1. Book the mini getaway as planned, and pay full price for four plane tickets.
2. Cancel the mini getaway and use my Scotia Rewards towards the cost of one of the flights to Orlando.

Hmm… mini getaway in Montreal, or 5-day vacation at Walt Disney World? Can you guess what I decided? (more…)

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

Is there a “magic” potion that can help you feel more energetic, make your skin radiant, boost your health and help ward off illness and infection?

Sure, you get it by doing this little thing called “juicing”. 

I’ve long been a fan of juicing fresh fruits and vegetables; drinking the cold, delicious liquid is like a rush of nutrients to your immune system. However, I’ve never been a fan of the cleanup after the fact. And I’m embarrassed to admit that this is the sole reason why my old juicer found a permanent home at the back of my cupboard.

Of course, this year I made a promise to myself to cut the crap. And even though commercially marketed 100% fruit juices are considered a “health food”, they’ll never be as healthy as extracting the fresh juice yourself. So I dusted off my old juicer and realized, OMG! It’s ancient. The motor hummed and hawed and only extracted about a 10th of the fruit. Now that would not do AT ALL.

Thankfully, my friends at Hamilton Beach Canada were on board with my mission to put my health first, and sent me their famous Big Mouth Stainless Steel Juice Extractor for review. Once it arrived, I was motivated to fill my fridge to the gills with my favourite fruits and vegetables. Health and happiness, here I come!

Caption: This is what is going into my body this week, thanks to the Hamilton Beach Canada Big Mouth Juicer. #healthyliving #juicing

The juicer features an extra large 3” chute, which allows you to juice whole fruits and vegetables with less prep time. In fact, a medium sized Red Delicious apple falls down the chute quite nicely; larger apples (like the Golden Delicious variety pictured above) should be cut in half prior to juicing. And those humming and hawing motors are definitely a thing of the past; the Big Mouth comes with a powerful 800 watt motor which literally obliterates fruits and vegetables in seconds (yielding up to 24% MORE juice for selected produce). Finally, the durable stainless steel cutter/strainer ensures that the unit is always ready when you are. (more…)

It’s safe to say that Orlando, Florida is my happy place… and the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort is as close as you can get to the Happiest Place on Earth… without staying at the Happiest Place on Earth. I’ll explain.

Located in beautiful Orlando – within the gates of Walt Disney World Resort - the Wyndham Grand Orlando is your gateway to Orlando’s legendary attractions, theme parks, entertainment and shopping. In fact, you can catch a complimentary shuttle to the Walt Disney World theme parks or explore Downtown Disney for incredible shopping, dining and live entertainment. And trust me, the enviable location is just one of the many reasons you should consider this resort for your next Orlando stay – with rooms starting at just $164.25 per night (“Stay 3 or More Nights” Promo) you won’t break the bank, either.

Accommodations

Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort offers 400 guest rooms and suites that overlook the property’s 10-acre lake and Walt Disney World parks. (In fact, we watched the fireworks from the comfort of our room each night at 9:00pm. Now that’s my idea of magical.) Each room is appointed with contemporary furniture; a 40-inch, flat-panel television; high-speed wired and wireless Internet access; black granite surfaces; and True Blue Spa and Bath & Body Works amenities. (more…)

So you’re walking along the street with a friend, minding your own business, when you approach another stranger. You friend says,

Look! It’s a blogger!

So how does he know that the stranger on the street is a blogger?

a) The person just tripped over a crack in the sidewalk; stopped everything, whipped out her phone, and furiously began tweeting that she just tripped over a crack in the sidewalk.

b) There’s a pretty potted flower in front of a neighbourhood store; the person stopped, whipped out a bulky camera and telescopic lens attachment, all the while muttering something about “Wordless Wednesday”.

c) Both a) and b)

The thing is, if there’s two things that bloggers are known for, it’s our smartphones and DSLR cameras. We’re constantly using our phones to stay in touch via any one of our preferred social platforms (I’m a Twitter kind of gal, but I know several Instagram-junkies), and often have an irrational need to “feel connected”. I’d venture to say that a large proportion of bloggers also use their smartphone as a camera; with 8MP+ cameras and an inherent convenience attached to simply carrying one device, you’re most likely to see fashion and beauty bloggers use their phone for double-duty.

Alas, the “Mommy Blogger” is a different breed.

In a space where blogging is your business, there’s constantly an undercurrent of who’s got the best blog design, who has the most brand associations, and now, who takes the best pictures. In fact, eavesdrop on any blogging conference, and it’s not uncommon for bloggers to chat more about their cameras than their children.

“So have you taken classes?”
“What attachments do you use? What setting?”
“How much did that external flash set you back?”

And for the most part, I get it. A huge part of the enjoyment when reading a blog post is the phenomenal pictures. Some of my favourite blogs are loaded to the hilt with professional photos, which of course, elevates the professionalism of the website itself. However, I’ll be frank; photography has just never been my thing. I simply can’t imagine lugging around a bulky camera in an even bulkier camera bag to a press event, nor do I see myself painstakingly digitally altering images to perfection. Not saying it’s a bad thing – it’s just not a Lena thing.

So what if I told you that these photos were taken with a slim, compact camera that fits in my pocket?

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I’ve always been a fan of BIG hair. You know, the kind of ‘do that is widely accepted in the Southern US and generally tolerated here in the Great White North – except perhaps in the early nineties, when grunge-inspired hair necessitated flat, unkempt locks. (Also known as: the WORST hair trend known to womankind.)

And, since I just happen to have the least envied hair texture – that unsexy combination of fine and frizzy with a cowlick in the back, greasy roots and dry ends and oh, just a hint of a kinky curl that resembles crimped hair at best and a treasure troll at its worst – I tend to invest a lot of time and energy in fighting Mother Nature. *Shakes Fist*

In fact, if there’s consistently one type of product I’ve always sought out, it’s the ones that promise full-bodied and voluminous hair. Bodifying shampoos. Volumizing mousses. Big and bold finishing sprays. And a back-comb at the roots, for good measure. So when John Frieda (read: hair-styling GOD) recently released his lineup of Luxurious Volume products, I was more than a little curious. I was a little obsessed.

MUST. TRY. NEW. PRODUCTS.
WILL. SOLVE. ALL. OF. LIFE’S. PROBLEMS. WITH. BIG. HAIR.
So what’s the “big” deal? Here I am pre- Luxurious Volume – after a quick blowdry with my current go-to mousse (ahem, which shall remain nameless), I’m left with smoother hair but decidedly zero pizzazz. I look like a 30-something gal with fine locks and a hint of hair happiness. This is actually what my hair looks like every day before I pull it into a ponytail – so I suppose if you popped by my house unannounced, this is the Lena who would likely greet you at the door.

I decided to photograph myself relatively unstyled, because if I put a large-barreled curling iron to the ends, backcombed my crown and added a bit of FRIZZ-EASE Extra Strength hair serum to the ends, I’d fool you into thinking I had more hair than I really do. So as far as “before” shots go, there I am. (more…)

I want to put out a question to you, friends –  where should my family’s next travels take us? A road trip to Montreal? Perhaps Ottawa? Or maybe a weekend shopping in the States? I’m looking for your best road trip ideas from Toronto – no more than 5-6 hours away.

The reason I ask? The new Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, which I introduced to y’all a few months ago.

You may have seen the post and thought to yourself, “Well, I don’t need another credit card.” Or perhaps you looked at the write-up and bookmarked it for future use. Or maybe, just maybe, you did me proud by applying for the card online at that very moment.

Whatever your reaction, I’m here to tell you that after using the card for the last 3 months, I can confirm that it’s all that – and a bag of chips. Or perhaps a hotel stay. Or trip to New York.

A refresher course in why the Gold card is awesome:

Not only do you receive 20,000 bonus points when you make your first purchase – you’ll also earn 4x Scotia Rewards points for every $1 you spend at eligible gas stations, grocery stores, on dining and entertainment. Translation: while I’m out and about spending money on the boring stuff like groceries and gas, I’m actually earning rewards that will bring me that much closer to a much-needed vacation. Four times closer, to be exact.

Next, once I’ve earned all the points I need, I can redeem them for my complete trip – including taxes and surcharges. That means nothing out of pocket, which of course means more money to spend on pre-trip clothes, post-trip souvenirs, and a margarita or two in between :)

Key features of the card:

• 4 POINTS FOR EVERY DOLLAR spent on the card at gas stations, grocery stores and on dining and entertainment, 1 point for all other purchases with the card

• No blackouts, no points expiry, no seat restrictions and no booking fees

• Travel service with access to global concierge specialists

• Ability to redeem points at or after booking for travel including airfare, hotel, car rental, cruise and vacation packages. Points can also be redeemed for merchandise and credits to Scotiabank investment and credit products

• Highly competitive insurance benefits included, such as Travel Emergency Medical (including travelers age 65+) and Rental Car Collision insurance

• $99 ANNUAL FEE. Additional card annual fee is $29 and the interest rates are 19.99% on purchases and 21.99% on cash advances, balance transfers and Scotia Credit Card cheques (more…)

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

Ever since these products arrived on my doorstep, I’ve been like a kid in a candy shop. Or a woman in a makeup store. And that store would be The Body Shop, of course. Pretty, shiny things? Oooh… yes please.

Line them up. Arrange them like so. Marvel at their dewiness. Inhale their sweet scent. They’re just like little toys! And repeat…. Line them up. Arrange them like so….

Have you ever played with your makeup? The Body Shop’s new Yummy range of lip glosses is irresistible for collectors – especially those who like to covet beauty products. Style-queens will love the clean lines and simple design of the chic new packs. Each transparent lip gloss tube features a bold image of its fruity flavour and shows-off the gorgeous gloss colour within. You’ll want to own them all… just to say you own them all!

There are 11 super-glossy, mouth-watering shades to choose from, each with a succulent fruity flavour to lift your mood. Love seasonal fruits? Then slick on the Plum, Peach or Strawberry. Fancy something more exotic? Try the Mango, Lychee or Coconut. Looking for a refreshing hue? Have a sip of the Mint or Watermelon. Want to go wild? Mix them as you like! And if you hate sticky but love sweet, each super-shiny shade delivers a glaze of sheer colour that’s non-sticky and lightweight to wear. The new formula is enriched with vitamins E and B5 and Community Fair Trade organic virgin coconut oil. Perfect for a dewy spring look! Priced at $10, these juicy lip glosses are a treat for you and your friends.

I must admit that I’ve never been a fan of watermelon lip gloss – there’s just something about the synthetic fragrance that doesn’t do it for me. However, I am crushing on the new Yummy Watermelon! It’s so fresh and fragrant, it makes me think of summer barbecues. Ah, dreaming of warmer weather! (more…)

As part of our #VisitOrlando adventure, my family had the wonderful opportunity to visit SeaWorld Orlando. In fact, although our entire trip was fabulous, our day spent among aquatic friends was definitely the highlight of our vacation. If you’re booking a trip to Orlando, a day at SeaWorld is a must. Here’s why -

SeaWorld truly offers fun and adventure for the entire family. From animal encounters to thrilling rides; spectacular shows and educational opportunities – the whole day is jam-packed with excitement. Feed stingrays in the morning and take in the fabulous killer whale show at noon. Spend the afternoon riding coasters – but not before you feed the dolphins and learn about polar bears. And, don’t forget to grab a few souvenirs from the gift shop before you leave. Too much fun!

Now, to make the most of your visit, consider one of their Exclusive Park Experiences; they allow you to go behind-the-scenes and get up close and personal with some of SeaWorld’s most famous residents.

Our family was treated to SeaWorld’s Family Fun Tour. The 4-hour walking tour allowed us to experience the best of the park! The tour is not included with admission, and you’ll need to reserve ahead to ensure availability. Here’s the scoop: the tour is $79 for ages 10 and up, $59 for ages 3-9, and free for children 2 and under. Is it worth it? Should you do it?

The answer: YES.

The fact is, chances are that if you’re visiting Orlando, it’s part of a family vacation. You’ll want to make the most of it! Plus, included in the price of the tour is all animal feedings, light refreshments and line-bypass for rides. Read on for a detailed account of our amazing day partaking in the SeaWorld Family Fun Tour. It truly gave us an experience we’d never be able to duplicate on our own – and, when we return to SeaWorld, I am positive we’d do it all over again. (more…)

There are some celebrity endorsements I get – and some I don’t necessarily understand. Do I believe that Justin Bieber uses Proactiv? Sure! Now there’s one less pimply teenager. Britney Spears drinks Pepsi? Of course she does. After she walks barefoot into gas station restrooms.

But… Jennifer Lopez for Féria? Not on your life. I’m quite confident that no boxed hair colour has ever touched a strand of her hair – not since she left the block, that is.

So let’s just say that I was slightly skeptical when introduced to Heidi Klum’s newest endorsement - CLEAR Scalp & Hair Therapy beauty products. A supermodel… standing behind a drug store brand? Could I possibly believe that her gorgeous, perfectly coiffed hair is a result of a mass marketed beauty product… retailing for $4.99 each?

The Claim: CLEAR Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy is a nourishing hair care line, with Nutrium 10, a rich blend of vitamins and nutrients. CLEAR feeds your scalp and gives you stronger, more beautiful hair in 7 days. Use CLEAR shampoo and conditioner for 1 week and it’s guaranteed you’ll get stronger, more beautiful hair – or your money back.

I’ll admit, I was intrigued. After being introduced to the line at Unilever Canada’s Be Groomed Be Gorgeous event back in November, I immediately liked three things: a) the science behind the formula, b) the luscious fragrance and c) Heidi Klum. Yes, I was swayed by the celebrity endorsement. (more…)

Technically, the debate is very straightforward: my husband loves takeout, and I don’t.

It’s not that I don’t enjoy having someone else doing the cooking for a change; truthfully, sometimes lighting the ol’ gas burner night after night gets tiresome. Plus, there’s the chance to try different cuisines in exactly the time it takes to dial a dinner – and, I must admit I love a good skewer of chicken souvlaki (extra tzatziki on the side).

I suppose the real reason I hate takeout is as follows: I’m cheap.

There! I said it. I simply can’t fathom wasting $30+ to feed a family of four – not when I know I can re-create the same meal for just a few dollars per person. Give me a stocked pantry and a recipe book… I will work wonders. And my husband does adore my cooking; he just likes to see me have a day off from time to time too.

Back to the debate.

My husband has been lobbying for a takeout (or dine-in) brunch for some time now: you know, Cora’s, Sunset Grill, Eggspectations – all respectable breakfast joints where a customer can enjoy a great meal for $8.95 per person. Plus tax. Plus tip. NOT happening.

In addition to the pricey menu, I have a huge problem with sub par ingredients – grade F eggs, greasy potatoes and breakfast sausage that tastes like the bottom of my shoe. And, since you’re paying for it, the tendency to eat every last scrap of pork fat on your plate. Certainly I can do better.

So, this past weekend, I treated the family to a restaurant-style breakfast – hold the heart attack.

On MY menu: I swapped white bread for toasted Dempsters WholeGrains Flax bread and added light spreadable butter. Next, I decided give a few years back to our arteries and substituted breakfast meats for fresh fruit – however, I did keep it somewhat traditional with two fried eggs, over easy. And what about those greasy, overcooked potatoes? Not even close. (more…)

Faithful readers of my blog will know that I began this year with one goal in mind: Get Healthy.

Of course, this essentially translated to one thing: CUT OUT THE CRAP.

It’s actually very simple. A few months ago, while thinking deep thoughts, I realized that there are some things that come without effort. Size 2 naturally? Good for you. A born athlete? Amazing! Math and science whiz? I wish!

But when it comes to good health, it’s never a coincidence, is it? Good health is a direct result of the choices we make – nutrition, lifestyle, sleep habits and exercise – and they all play a role in being your best. In fact, it’s no surprise that most diseases do not happen spontaneously; they are a result of lifelong lifestyle choices. And in the case of hereditary diseases – sometimes, the result of our ancestors’ lifestyle choices.

I do not want to make poor choices. I do not want my children to be affected by my poor choices.

So, what’s the crap?

1. Crappy Diet. Which includes refined sugar, simple carbs, trans fats and those unpronounceable ingredients you find in practically every boxed food - I need to limit the amount of the bad stuff we’re exposed to, so when it’s time to enjoy that bowl of potato chips, it’s a treat, not a dietary staple.

2. Crappy Stress. Often, I place too much importance on things that don’t really matter, or dwell on the things (or people) I can’t change. How often do we find ourselves measuring our self worth based on the opinions of others! This year, my goal is to let it all go…

3. Crappy Sleep Habits. Staying up too late because I “need” to work. To get just one more thing done. To watch the last 10 minutes of that news special. Since having children and working from home, I have the worst sleep habits I’ve ever had. Is it any wonder I’m now up to 3 cups of coffee per day?

4. Crappy Laziness. I’ll admit it: I’m too lazy to exercise. Which probably means that I haven’t found the right workout – one that is fun, challenges me and is a routine I can stick to. Oh, I have a “dreadmill” in the basement, and for some reason I own 6 pairs of yoga pants… but don’t actually do yoga. Before winter ends, I’d like to make friends with physical activity and get moving.

This year, it’s my choice to cut out the crap. It’s my choice to make better food choices. And it’s definitely my choice to be an exemplary role model for my two sons. (more…)

It’s hardly a new product – being on the market for at least one year now – but it’s certainly one of my favourites. Folks, if you haven’t tried Downy Unstopables yet – You.Are.Missing.Out.

Now I suppose this would be a good time to add a disclaimer – if you’re sensitive to fragrance, or have an aversion to having your clothes smelling heavenly for weeks on end – perhaps this isn’t the product for you. But for all those who adore the scent of freshly washed laundry, read on.

Unstopables are marketed as an “in wash scent booster”, which roughly translates to “pebbles of deliciousness that you toss in your washing machine.” They don’t clean; they don’t soften clothes; but hot damn do they ever deliver on the whole scent-boosting phenomena. Currently available in four scents – Fresh, Lush (my personal fave), Shimmer and Spring, the scent beads are dissolved during the wash cycle, infusing your fabrics with lasting fresh scent. Just use a little (or a lot!) and you have total control over the amount of fragrance and freshness.

When I first received the product for review I was skeptical about a) the effectiveness, b) the value for the price ($8.99 per bottle), and c) the effectiveness. Oops, did I already say that? Call me a skeptic, but I’ve been disappointed before by laundry products claiming long-lasting freshness.

After using Unstopables just once, I was hooked. Not only did our clothes come out smelling heavenly, but the fragrance lingered on for days. And days. And days. In fact, when retrieving a pair of jeans from Reid’s dresser – some 2 weeks after doing a kid’s load in the wash – I was overjoyed to be hit with the lush scent of lavender as soon as I opened the drawer. It was glorious! I actually stuffed my face in the jeans and took a deep breath; never before had boys clothing smelled so divine.

The official claim from Downy is that Unstopables will keep laundry fresh for up to 12 weeks. I’m not exactly if this a true statement, but I can tell you this: if you’re only doing laundry every 12 weeks, you have too many clothes. Like, way too many. Hence, I don’t think we’ll ever be able to give it the full 3-month test, but I can certainly vouch for its efficacy up to 2 weeks and slightly beyond.

Aren’t those little pebbles just adorable? I wish our computer screens were scent-enabled.

Since one of my prior concerns was price, I can tell you this: I’ve since purchased two more bottles (on sale for $6.99 each). I was able to get at least 25 washes per bottle (using about a tablespoon in each wash), and so to me, it’s worth an extra 28¢ per wash to get lasting freshness and fragrance. I always break things down on a cost-per-use basis, because it allows me to track where I spend too much money – and where I’m happy to indulge. For Downy Unstopables, I will indulge. (more…)