Although I once called myself a shopaholic, I’m not afraid to admit that buying and selling a home – twice in my lifetime now! – were not my smoothest transactions. To be sure, the outcome was desirable, but the process wasn’t always the easiest (or the most beneficial to my wallet).
Today, I’m sharing my five lessons learned, and introducing you to Nobul – an innovative real estate platform which offers buyers and sellers complete marketplace transparency.
(Also, read on for information about the Nobul $100K giveaway!)
1. Don’t hire the first agent you meet. While house hunting back in 2015, we met an agent at the very first open house we popped in to. She seemed professional, pleasant and well connected – in short, while she didn’t sell us the house, she nevertheless sold us on her services. We signed with her and came this close to paying an astronomical amount of commission on a property that was decidedly not our dream home. …
At 41 years old, I’ve thought about it, talked about it, and now, have taken the next step to see if facial fillers are right for me. But before I divulge the details, and my ultimate decision, let me take you back to Beauty Decoded Live, an event in Toronto that aimed to decode the science behind JUVÉDERM® facial fillers and debunking medical aesthetics myths once and for all. …
I’m often interviewed or asked to provide tips for my favourite travel essentials. Over the years, I’ve amassed quite a collection of “must haves”. Today, I’m sharing my top picks with you! …
(Also, no IOU’s! If you can’t afford to make the family vacay, stay drama-free by staying home.) …
There are many things I look for when reviewing family-friendly sun destinations, and for the most part, Caribbean resorts have elevated their offerings to meet the expectations of discerning Canadian vacationers. Therefore, when I find a resort that goes over and above to deliver an exceptional experience at a comparably excellent value, I am more than happy to sing its praises.
But, what makes it so effective at moisturizing? Bio-Oil Dry Skin Gel is made with very little water (only 3% compared to 70%) and significantly more oil. Because our skin has a layer that repels water, water as an ingredient in skin formulations is actually of no use to dry skin. An oil-based formulation is much more effective as it locks in moisture and provides the hydration needed for long-lasting results.
I’ve been focused on making healthier dietary choices, and I’d like to continue this pattern of “better for me” eating even during the holidays. Specifically, I’ve worked hard to reduce the amount of sugar and refined carbs that previously dominated my diet. Instead, I’ve been loading up on protein-rich foods that keep me fulfilled, satiated and not craving a cookie before bedtime. …
Here are three reasons to fall in love with The Westin Ottawa. …
My husband and I were (over) due for some alone time. Months ago, I started researching quick getaways where we could leave for a few days without overly disrupting the boys’ schedule or putting too much pressure on my mother-in-law (who would be looking after them in our absence). I kept everything a secret from my husband, mostly because I didn’t want to get his hopes up just in case I couldn’t pull something together. …
Here are my Top Five Surprises with the 2019 Kia Sorento. …
This year, I’m sharing my best tips for back-to-school shopping – the old school way! …
3. At some point in my mid-twenties, inspired by Chef Anna Olson’s hit television show, “Sugar,” I decided to supplement my Bachelor of Commerce with a Pastry Arts Diploma. I know, polar opposites! But I was lacking motivation in my 9-5 job and decided that pursuing outside interests would be a great way to reinstate passion in my life. When I read in a local newspaper that Anna had opened an artisanal boutique in St. Catharines, Ontario, I was one of the first to visit her in-store and purchase a signed copy of her newest cookbook. …
It’s true; I’m a travel writer by trade. And this means that my family travels frequently – on average, once or twice per month. My boys are definitely living their best lives (there’s no doubt about it) but for me, it simply means that my office changes scenery, and often, time zones.
1. Take the time to research your destination. Sure, you’ll want to do the basic things, like scoping out the accommodations, dining options and recreational activities. However, especially when travelling with young ones, you’ll need to do a little bit of a deeper dive. …
But it’s only March! you’re thinking. Friends, it’s the PERFECT time to plan – especially if you’re considering a family vacation to Europe, which has never been hotter (or more attainable) for family travels. 
The TWINWash Binge. Go grab that tub of popcorn, lady, but don’t get too comfortable – the main feature is a lot shorter than you think! If you’ve got multiple loads to get through (a “laundry-thon?”) the LG TWINWash SpeedWash feature will make time zip by. It can help save up to 30 minutes per load, cutting wash time by half – without shortcutting cleaning performance. …
Is there anything more alluring to a homeowner? I’ll admit, when we first moved into our new house last year, one of the things that kept me sane through the chaos was the prospect of selecting brand new kitchen and laundry room appliances. My previous purchases had been made over a decade ago, and, given the advances in technology during that time, I knew I would be in for a treat.
I selected this timeless pair of “