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Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

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Messenger Kids: Where Kids Connect

November 14, 2019 By Lena 3 Comments

The new school year is underway! For my boys, now in Grade 4 and Grade 6, it means that evenings are filled with homework, lessons and of course, trying to fit in a little screen time. While we tend to argue about how much and how often they are in front of their devices, I can’t deny that electronics are now an essential part of a youth’s life. Simply put, they learn, connect with others and explore boundaries while plugged in.

However, at ages 9 and 11, I’m still not entirely comfortable giving my boys their own devices. I know that many would consider the tween years a responsible age for a first phone, but I also know that my boys are not yet able to demonstrate responsible device usage (they’d play all day and all night if I let them). Therefore, it’s a “no” for now.

Yes, I’m a mean mom. *Rolls eyes*

I do appreciate that they’d like to stay in touch with their peers beyond the classroom and playground, and I’ve been looking for a safe, simple way for them connect – while still having eyes on them to ensure responsible usage. Recently, I was introduced to Messenger Kids. You may already be familiar with Messenger from Facebook; the app works similarly, but is wholly designed with kids in mind. …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Facebook Messenger Kids

Shell’s Favourite Road Trip Contest

July 25, 2012 By Lena

Let’s cut to the chase – paying for gas sucks. And, it’s unavoidable. And, chances are you have to do it WAY too often, because driving to work, school, playing chauffeur, shopping, bar hopping, Driving Miss Daisy, etc takes up a lot of fuel.

(Of course, this would be a great time to suggest alternative methods of transportation, but I’ll just come out and say it: I’d rather help the environment by recycling, composting and foregoing aerosol hair spray than get on a bus. Sorry, just not my cup of tea.)

Regardless of how you spend your time taxiing, Shell is offering a sweet little contest to help make your next road trip a little more affordable. On Facebook? Would love to win some gas money? You’re in luck.

With Shell’s ” Favourite Road Trip” contest, simply share your favourite road trip memory in 250 words or less, and you’ll have a chance to win 1 of 3 prizes of $1000 worth of NEW Shell Nitrogen Enriched gasolines.

(Good to know: The gasoline is pumped full of 20% more cleaning agents than before, making it one of the best fuels to protect your engine.)

Some of my favourite vacations involve road trips. Who doesn’t love packing a map, snacks and a carefree attitude? (Unless you have children under the age of 12. Then, road trips are less desirable, truth.) I have fond memories of creating “Road Trip” mix tapes and CDs especially for the occasion, and mapping out my very own EDR’s (Emergency Detour Routes). #geek

In fact, this is the perfect time to share with you memories of road trips with girlfriends to Wasaga Beach, back in our late teens and early 20’s. It went something like this:

1. Pack beer and bathing suit. (Not necessarily in that order.)

Whoa! Was it ever THAT easy to walk out the door? Today I need about 67 items just to go to the grocery store. And sadly, those have been my more popular road trips of late :(

Anyhoo, make my day and enter for your chance to win $1000 worth of NEW Shell Nitrogen Enriched gasolines. Simply pop on over to Shell’s fan page on Facebook, tell your best tale, and cross your fingers! Contest ends September 16th. Good luck!

This post is sponsored by Shell Canada (Shell). The views expressed as part of ListenToLena may not necessarily reflect the views of Shell or any of its affiliates.

Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: Facebook, Shell Favourite Road Trip Contest

Zellers: A Festive Finale (and a Good Chuckle, too!)

November 8, 2011 By Lena

I’m sure you’ve seen the HIGH-larious Zellers video making the rounds on your favourite blogs – you know, the one poking fun at its inevitable demise? Of course I wanted to share it with my readers as well. Now since it’s no secret that I have a love affair with the “huge American retailer that shall remain nameless”… I must say that I’m pleasantly surprised that Zellers has taken the high road. Much respect to them, actually.

Before I ramble on, here’s the video:

Quite the laugh, no? But beyond the chuckles, I love that Zellers, rather than avoiding the subject, is actively participating in its transition by reaching out to customers via social media. Too many times a company throws in the towel – especially when they know the clock is ticking – and forgets about their customers altogether. Yes, I assumed Zellers would be in this camp.

It’s actually quite awesome that they’re proving me wrong.

Here’s how you can make the most of their festive finale: Head on over to Zellers on Facebook. You’ll be able to do everything from setting the sale prices of merchandise to picking the in-store music playlist (I vote for Backstreet Boys on repeat!). Facebook fans will also have access to exclusive offers and deals – like the $15 off coupon I snagged last week :)

For real – this campaign is already more memorable than anything Zellers has offered to date. Such a shame we won’t get to see more… but I suppose that’s why its called “Going Out with a BANG!”

And, bonus points for incorporating wolves into the message. Bahaha!

Click here to visit Zellers on Facebook.

This post is sponsored by Zellers.

Filed Under: Lifestyle Tagged With: Facebook, promo, sale, Zellers

Coming Up: Reader Appreciation Giveaway!

May 4, 2011 By Lena

It’s been a long time, no? I don’t want to think I’ve forgotten about y’all!

So here’s the scoop – think I can get to 1,000 Facebook fans by the end of May? Let’s hope so… because if I do, I’ll just have to have a fan appreciation blog giveaway on June 1st. Here’s a hint: It begins with VISA and ends with $250. YES!!!

If you don’t yet “Like” me on Facebook, now would be a fabulous time to drop by and say hi! And, don’t forget to suggest my page to friends, peeps!

Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: Facebook, Listen to Lena

Lena Loves… Pampers Gifts to Grow Rewards

February 1, 2011 By Lena

If you’re a new parent, chances are your little one is in Pampers. Chances are even better that you collect Gifts to Grow rewards points. And if you don’t, I have two words for you:

Tisk. Tisk.

It’s okay, I was once there too. After Ryder was born, I fecklessly through away several packages of diapers – noting the little bar code stickers inside but not giving them much thought. It was only after a night of complete baby-induced insomnia that I actually looked up what “Gifts to Grow” points were all about. Then I quickly did the math; Ryder was destined to be in diapers for at least two years (ahem, going on three) and therefore, there were ample points to collect over the years. And ample points mean ample rewards!

In the past year, I’ve redeemed points for a gift card, trio of baby books, building blocks and even taken my chances in a draw for a year’s worth of Pampers diapers and wipes. And now, I’m THIS CLOSE to grabbing the Radio Flyer Big Flyer! Ryder will have the coolest big wheel on the block!

This year, Pampers has teamed up with celebrity mom Bethenny Frankel to celebrate all the wonderful things parents do each day for their babies and families that make them real, Unsung Heroes! Recognizing parents for all their hard work and dedication to their family, Pampers is unveiling a new year of gifts, incentives and rewards from their Gifts to Grow catalog that families can earn by purchasing Pampers branded products.

“To kick off a new year of Gifts to Grow and celebrate parents everywhere, Pampers and Frankel launched a Facebook contest and other activities to award parents for all they do each and every day. Parents can now visit the Pampers Facebook page to nominate a friend, family member or even themselves to be recognized as a real “Unsung Hero”. Parents will also be able to receive special incentives and rewards from Gifts to Grow, as well as enter to win a signed diaper bag from Frankel.”

Here’s a quick video of Bethenny chatting about Unsung Heroes:

http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/mnr_lib/201002/players/player-single.swf?job=48084
If you currently collect Gifts to Grow points – congratulations! You’re one step closer to claiming wonderful rewards for your child – or yourself (you unsung hero, you!)

And for all others, what are you waiting for? It’s time to be rewarded for all that you do, including the numerous (and often, unending) diaper changes. To learn more about Pampers Gifts to Grow, please visit www.pampers.com.


Pampers has generously offered one Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win a Gifts to Grow Unsung Heroes prize pack, including a diaper bag autographed by Bethenny Frankel, a package of Pampers diapers, and a Magnetic Tabletop Easel from Alex Toys (just one of the many fabulous rewards you can grab with your points!)

Five (5) runners up will receive a Liz Lange diaper clutch, also courtesy of Pampers!

To enter, simply visit Gifts to Grow and leave a comment telling us about a favourite reward you’ve collected, or a reward you would like to redeem your points for.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) For an extra entry, follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(2) “Like” Pampers on Facebook
(3) Follow Pampers on Twitter
(4) Tweet about this giveaway (here’s a tiny URL for you: http://tinyurl.com/4cls5x2)
(5) You may tweet about this giveaway daily

I’ll draw for a winner on March 1st. Special thanks to Pampers, and good luck everyone!

Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: babies, contest, Facebook, Gifts to Grow, Pampers

Snack Pack: Share a Smile!

November 29, 2010 By Lena

How can a SMILE help feed the needy? It’s simple!

Snack Pack, creators of the delicious puddings and juicy gels (I’m addicted to the Ice Cream Sandwich dessert pudding), has teamed up with Food Banks Canada for their Share a Smile campaign. Each and every day adults and children alike go hungry – and with the holidays around the corner, let’s make sure that everyone can look forward to Christmas dinner. Food Banks Canada would like to raise $20,000 in time for the holidays – and you can help!

Here’s how it works. “Like” Snack Pack Canada’s Facebook page, click the Smile tab, and a $1 donation will be made on your behalf to Food Banks Canada. You can also opt to Share a Smile and Snack Pack will make the donation on behalf of one of your Facebook friends.

Remember, the more often you smile, the more donations, ballots and points you’ll collect. Imagine, if you  – and all your friends – took just 10 seconds to smile every day, Food Banks Canada would reach their goal in no time. To entice you further, there are tons of weekly prizes to be won – just register for the contest and cross your fingers!

What makes me smile? Lately, it’s been Ryder’s interaction with Reid. He coos at him, brings him toys – even cautions him not to put wooden blocks in his mouth. He has finally (if not begrudgingly) accepted the role of big brother, and takes his newfound responsibility very seriously. In return, Reid saves his biggest smiles for him, and is constantly babbling, reaching out and interacting with his role model. I’m smiling just thinking about it :)

I am participating in the Snack Pack program by Mom Central on behalf of Conagra Foods Canada. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: charity, Facebook, Mom Central, Share a Smile, Snack Pack

Listen to Lena! – Facebook Fan Page!!!

November 28, 2010 By Lena

Don’t check for flying pigs. I really do have a fan page.

It occurred to me that I catch the most updates from my favourite blogs via my Facebook news feed, and thought, why don’t I post updates for my readers? Duh.

So I now have a Facebook fan page! Woot!

Be sure to “Like” me, because I know you do. Or maybe you like all the goodies I give away. Or maybe you like to laugh along with my random rants. Whatever the case, c’mon, show a girl some support!

Hmm… could Twitter be next? Not likely – but definitely eventually. In the meantime, I look forward to spreading my social media wings!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Facebook, Lena

My Fabulous New Job!

November 30, 2009 By Lena

I would have to say the hardest part about being a stay at home mom is keeping up my employable skills – reasoning that most employers don’t care that I have mastered the art of swaddling, know all the words to “Hush Little Baby” and have taught my little guy to strike a Zoolander pose (which actually has me falling off my chair laughing each time).

So Mike and I decided that I should definitely look into a part time job, both to keep my brain active and to supplement my Christmas shopping :) But what to do? Certainly not anywhere near the woods of my previous career (do YOU see me as a Financial Services Business Analyst?) Ha, I think not. Being off for almost two years has definitely convinced me I need a change. So what then? Something that I love doing… that will excite me… that will keep me motivated…. that I enjoy.

So it’s no surprise that when PTPA posted for a Social Media Mom, I jumped at the opportunity to work with them. And I got the job!

Starting today, I will be PTPA’s social media representative on their blog, Twitter and Facebook. I’ll be keeping all their readers in the loop about great contest announcements, award winning products, parenting tips and, of course, hot deals!

What does this mean for Listen to Lena! readers? Well, with respect to my blog, it’s business as usual; I’m not going anywhere. But, for the parents who take the time to stop by, you’re in for a treat – I’ll have the inside scoop on PTPA’s contests, will be partnering with many of the award winning products to bring fab giveaways to my blog, and will have up-to-the minute info about the hottest new brands!

So if you can’t get enough of the parenting deals here, be sure to follow my updates by becoming a fan of PTPA on Facebook, following my updates on Twitter, and reading my posts on the PTPA blog! And here’s the first great contest for ya – when PTPA reaches 500 fans on Facebook, they’ll randomly draw for a $100 gift card from GAP!

I’ll be all over cyberspace for PTPA, and would love to run into some L2L readers on different social platforms. (In case you’re wondering, this is a work from home position, so I’m now a stay at home mom/blogging guru/Social Media Mom/happy mommy.)

Thanks, as always, for stopping by – and hope to see more of ya’ll soon!

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: Facebook, Lena, PTPA, Twitter

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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Instagram post 2196942347640341480_327607838 Holiday shopping this week? 🛍 Let @shopSTC make it easy! Scarborough Town Centre's Guest Services pop up (relocated beside Entrance 4) is a newly transformed space offering exclusive shopping amenities. Chill out in the visitors’ lounge, lighten your load with coat/parcel check and strike another thing off the "to do" list by purchasing STC gift cards or utilizing gift wrapping services. It's all designed with your comfort and convenience in mind, and let me tell you, it's so appreciated during this busy holiday season! Psst - only TWO weeks left until Christmas! 🎄#MeetMeAtSTC #STCPartner
Instagram post 2196198335807567733_327607838 The holidays are here, and what better way to share in the joy of the season than with a potluck! It’s the perfect way to celebrate togetherness, one dish at a time. Here are my best tips for hosting a fun potluck with friends:

1. Grab EVERYTHING you need from @walmartcanada. Yes, everything! Swipe ➡️ to see the amazing holiday-themed dishes and decor I purchased from my local store. From table runners to trays, serving dishes to sparkly ornaments, you'll be able to dress up your table in style while saving money.

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3. Assign a variety of tastes, textures and flavours. This includes hot and cold appetizers, sweet and savoury sides and of course, make sure someone (or everyone) brings wine!

4. Use gift tags to describe the dishes. I lay out gift tags and a sharpie; as friends arrive, I ask them to write down their name and the name of the dish. Not only does it help at the end of the evening when it comes time to pack off the leftovers, it reduces the inevitable "What is this?" question from fellow guests.

Cheers to potluck perfection! #SpendSmallGiveBig #ad
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Instagram post 2194042482895765300_327607838 Experiences, not things. This holiday season, I’ve been focused on gifting experiences that can be shared with my loved ones. From adults-only travel adventures to one-on-one special time with each of my little guys, I’m convinced that the gift of time is the most priceless gift of all. Recently, I had an opportunity to enjoy a Priceless Experience with @mastercardca in one of their Priceless Cities, Miami. We sat at the executive chef's table at @three_wynwood and feasted on a tasting menu curated especially for Mastercard cardholders who book this experience. Visit my blog for all the details on our incredible date night, and information on how you can gift a Priceless Experience to a loved one this holiday season. #StartSomethingPriceless #ad
Instagram post 2192946946914561554_327607838 Each year, since the boys were very young, we've had a tradition: we head to @walmartcanada to choose a piece of holiday decor that gives them joy. It's usually an ornament, candle or stocking holder, but this year, Ryder and Reid both selected Nutcracker figurines. I love seeing the house filled with their beloved choices year after year. And since Walmart has so many seasonal goods at low prices, we never have to break the bank to create lasting memories. Because I always shop with my Walmart Rewards Mastercard, I was able to use my Walmart Rewards Dollars to pay for Ryder's Nutcracker figurine and got it for free! You can't put a price tag on holiday happiness, but our little tradition allows us to spend small and give big—exactly what the season is all about.
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{Paid partnership with Walmart Rewards Mastercard} #ad #WalmartRewardsMastercard #YouEarnedIt #SpendSmallGiveBig
Instagram post 2192587720832841284_327607838 “Frinter!" ❄️ You know, the season where it's not *so* cold that you're cursing mother nature and you're still enjoying the crunch of colourful leaves underfoot. I'm ready for all the elements in my @UNIQLOCanada #HybridDown Ultra Warm Short Coat. It's actually UNIQLO’s warmest down outerwear! Filled with down and AIRTECH technology on the outside, I love that the non-quilted design reduces the bulk and gives a smooth, modern silhouette. #UNIQLOCanada #LifeWear #ad
Instagram post 2191865205067970587_327607838 It's time to Spark a Miracle! Here's a simple and rewarding way to #SpendSmallGiveBig this holiday season: when you purchase any toy for $20 or more at Walmart or online at Walmart.ca from December 3-8, @walmartcanada will donate $1 to Children’s Miracle Network, in support of @cmn_canada hospitals across Canada! You can also make a donation throughout the month of December in-store or online at Walmart.ca. My friend @extrasparklesplease and I think it's the perfect time to tackle our holiday shopping list, and hope we've inspired you to help #SparkAMiracle, too! #ad
Instagram post 2190201001911235541_327607838 *AD Blonde on the outside, but brunette at heart! ♥️ It doesn’t end there... although I’m in my 40’s, I’ll be forever 30 on the inside. Do you see yourself this way, too? Recently, I’ve found myself wondering if there was a way to align the way I look with the way I feel. Back in June I attended Beauty Decoded Live, an event by @JuvedermCanada. There, I learned about the science behind MD Codes and their role in addressing the emotional attributes of beauty, directly from Dr. Mauricio de Maio, *the* authority on cosmetic dermatology. How did the evening affect my views on facial fillers? Visit my blog to read my thoughts before, during and after the event. #JuvedermCanada #BeautyDecoded
Instagram post 2188239120795344453_327607838 Connecting with my “mom friends” is a priority for me! Whether it’s over coffee, for a shopping date, or better yet, both – I think it’s important to continue the parent-focused conversations, especially with those who have children at different ages/stages from my own. Recently, @extrasparklesplease and I got together to chat about everything from holiday shopping to keeping our boys healthy, which included an open conversation about meningitis B, a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that spreads through close contact, like a cold or flu. Visit my blog, linked in my bio, for more information on how you can help protect your children. Do you get together with fellow moms on a regular basis? Do tell! #MomHealthTalk *AD

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