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Beauty SOS: Hydrating & Plumping Sheet Mask

August 13, 2017 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Friends, let me know if this sounds familiar. Perhaps you’ve been working late, taking in too much caffeine and neglecting your skin. Maybe facing elements such as wind and sun – or worse, indoor air conditioning – has caught up with you, leaving your skin dry and dehydrated. Or, it could be even more basic than that – you have dry skin, have always had dry skin, and have learned to live with your dry skin.

It’s time for a Beauty SOS.

For those times when you’re faced with a dry skin “emergency” – placed in quotes because really, first world problems, right? – it’s good to know that fast-acting relief for dehydrated skin is available. Introducing NeoStrata Hydrating & Plumping Sheet Mask.
Featuring 0.15% pure hyaluronic acid, as well as a blend of botanicals, the mask rehydrates the skin and replenishes its moisture barrier, while also enhancing its protection against external aggressors. It’s extremely gentle and after just 15 minutes, you can tangibly feel the improvement: softer, more comfortable and supple skin. …

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Filed Under: Beauty Tagged With: #neostrata25, Beauty, hydrating mask, NeoStrata

Experience the Colourful World of Instadri x Crayola

August 13, 2017 By Lena

Now *this* is the kind of back-to-school shopping I love!

The NEW Sally Hansen x Crayola Insta-Dri Collection is a throwback to a more care-free time of colouring with crayons. I can vividly recall opening a brand new box of Crayola crayons as a child; carefully lining up the colours as I whispered the names to myself. Today, some of those same iconic hues are available in a fast-dry nail polish!

The collection is formulated with a base and top coat for extended wear and stunning shine all in one coat. Available in 12 specially designed shades, you’ll feel like a kid all over again choosing your favourites. (Special shout out to my 9-year old who helped me create this flat lay!)
Anyone else love Razzmatazz? It’s the best red, hands down! It’s always been my favourite crayon and I have a feeling the hue will become an epic masterpiece on my fingernails, too.  …

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Filed Under: Beauty Tagged With: #INSTADRIxCRAYOLA, #SALLYHANSENCA, Crayola Insta-Dri Collection, Sally Hansen

Demystifying Moisture in Your Home: The Case for a Dehumidifier

August 10, 2017 By Lena

I really, really wanted to write “de-MIST-ifying” instead – get it? Humidity! Mist! – but I decided to spare you the pun. (You’ll notice I still got it in here, zing!)

If you’re reading this blog post in a) Canada, during b) summertime and c) live in an enclosed space without a dehumidifier, we need to talk. Dehumidifiers are, without a doubt, one of the most misunderstood necessities for today’s homeowners. In fact, in an informal survey (very informal, I just asked Facebook friends) pertaining to their use, only 20% of respondents indicated that they owned one. I also received the following questions:

“Wait, do I really need one?”
“I think we have one but I have to ask (insert husband’s name).”
“What is that? You mean like the thing in the baby’s room?” (No, that’s a humidifier.)
“No but I’m sure you’ll convince me I need one.”

Well yeah, cause that’s what I do. And after reading this article, if you’re still not convinced, I won’t trouble you further. (As long as you don’t trouble me to complain about your allergies and energy costs.)

Without further ado, the case for a dehumidifier.
How it works: Quite simply, a dehumidifier is an electric appliance that removes excess moisture and humidity in the air. A fan in the unit pulls in air from the surrounding area, which may have high moisture levels (particularly during the summer months). When this air passes through the dehumidifier, it is cooled to remove the moisture, and then reheated. This de-moisturized air is then redistributed into the room. The unit collects the moisture it pulls from the air in a reservoir (usually a plastic bucket that the owner is responsible for emptying when it reaches capacity). Et voila! More comfortable air = a more comfortable home. …

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Filed Under: Decor Tagged With: lg dehumidifier, LG PuriCare

The Smoking Gun: Where There’s Smoke, There’s Flavour

August 9, 2017 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

A few weeks ago, I confessed to a small – really, a *teeny* – bad habit: overspending on iced green tea lattes, to the tune of hundreds per year. I know! My bad. But I’ve since changed my ways and am happy to declare I haven’t purchased a coffee shop matcha beverage since.

However, I can’t enjoy my place on the moral high ground without admitting that I still have a few vices that cost a pretty penny, including (but not limited to) smoked artisan cheese.

Cheese please! We love indulging in really good Canadian cheeses and aren’t afraid to pay a premium for a quality product. However, we’re also smart enough to know when we’re paying too much, and lately, I’ve been pondering the markup of smoked cheeses like cheddar and gouda. Does the addition of smoky essence truly warrant an increase of up to $10 per 150g? Is there an easier (and more cost effective way) to add effortless smoke flavour enhancement to a wide variety of foods at home, including meats, cheese, dips, sauces, cocktails and more?
Introducing The Smoking Gun by Breville Canada. This wood smoke infuser allows you to infuse a variety of foods and drinks with natural smoky flavours like applewood and hickory without adding any heat. That’s right – no obtrusive smoking chamber, no fire hazard! Simply load The Smoking Gun with wood chips, light and blow smoke into a covered container of any kind. As soon as the container fills with smoke, remove the gun and swirl the smoke, allowing it to sit and infuse for a few minutes. (You can even try smoking foods twice for a deeper smoked flavour!) …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: breville canada, small appliances, the smoking gun

Beach Day Essentials, Amazon News + A Giveaway!

August 7, 2017 By Lena

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Also note: This blog post contains affiliate links. Why? Because I’m a brand new Amazon Associate!

But of course I am; my love affair with Amazon.ca has spanned years – fifteen, to be exact – which is actually longer than any romantic relationship I’ve had. From DVDs to photography equipment, clothing to makeup – and now, even food and pharmacy items! – I take advantage of great prices, fast, FREE shipping and unparalleled selection.
Pictured above: Sojos Sunglasses – nineteen (19!!!) friends ordered these beauties when I featured them last month. You can see my girlfriends modelling the sunnies here and here and here! They’re just $17.99 with FREE shipping and returns for Amazon Prime members. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: amazon prime, Amazon.ca, beach essentials

The Most EGGcellent Time of Year

August 2, 2017 By Lena

There’s no doubt about it: In the summertime when the weather is hot, I’ve got the outdoors on my mind. In fact, I’d rather be anywhere than cooped up in the kitchen – so I take the kitchen outside.

Hadn’t pegged me for the “roughin’ it” kind of girl? Well, who said anything about roughin’ it? Indoors or outdoors, it all comes down to one thing: good food. Forget hot dogs on the grill – my idea of a portable meal is my famous Camp Fried Rice.
Never thought of making fried rice on the go? Let me blow your mind.

First, it’s an easy way to create a filling, flavourful meal while breaking away from the traditional picnic/ barbecue-style foods. Using a combination of ingredients that can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, plus shelf-stable and frozen goods, it’s a breeze to make – and who doesn’t love a little takeout-style meal when dining under the sun? Here’s how it comes together. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #eggcellentsummer, burnbrae farms, egg creations

The Tote You’ve Been Waiting For… TSC’s Summer Beauty Event!

July 28, 2017 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

I love to pamper myself with beauty products. Watching vlogger tutorials, sampling new makeup shades and re-jigging my skincare routine are some of my favourite things! And if you’re a beauty junkie like me, I know you’ve been waiting for this –

It’s TSC’s Summer Beauty Event! This year, they’ve once again released a cult favourite: the Beauty Tote bag. Exclusive to TSC, this custom-curated tote is a great way to try out the latest products (like the Foreo LUNA Play!), or experience some of TSC’s top-rated brands to revive, refresh and renew your beauty routine. It’s over a $300 retail value – for just $49.99!
This year’s tote is chock full of the hottest brands such as IT, Perricone, Elizabeth Grant, M Asam, Beekman and more – all at TSC. Surprised? You shouldn’t be! TSC is THE destination for beauty brands you know and love to treat your face, hair, and body. In fact, TSC introduced me to many of my go-to products, including IT Cosmetics Brow Power Perfector, St. Tropez Gradual Tan and Pur Cosmetics Velvet Matte Liquid Lipstick. …

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Filed Under: Beauty Tagged With: #TSCBeauty, TSC’s Summer Beauty Event

Ever Just the Same… Ever a Surprise: Beauty and the Beast, Disney Dream

July 26, 2017 By Lena

Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to take a sneak peek at something very, very magical.
“Do NOT cry!” I told myself sternly. “It’s just a song,” I muttered as the incredibly talented actors bounded about the stage, re-imagining one of my beloved childhood favourites in front of my very eyes.

With Dori Saltzman, senior editor of Cruise Critic on my right and Gene Sloan, travel expert for USA Today on my left, I marveled at my sheer fortune. I was seated in Disney Cruise Line’s production facility in Toronto, enjoying a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the making of Beauty and the Beast, DCL’s new musical debuting on the Disney Dream in November. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: beauty and the beast, Disney Cruise Line, disney dream

It’s a Springfree Summer Jumpoff!

July 24, 2017 By Lena

It’s no secret that our summer is infinitely better thanks to the addition of our new Springfree Trampoline. The boys are spending more time outdoors than ever; in fact, I find myself calling them inside almost every evening. It brings back memories of my own mom signalling for me to come indoors when I was young.

The thing is, trampolines make kids feel like kids.

That’s why I pleased to share with you some very timely news – if you live in the Greater Toronto Area, take note! Springfree Trampoline has partnered with two-time Olympic Gold Medal-winning trampolinist Rosie MacLennan to host a Canada 150-themed event at Yonge-Dundas Square. On Saturday, July 29th between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., Springfree Trampolines will be set up with the tgoma interactive gaming system and guests will be invited to play. The tgoma system will be connected to a custom, Canada-150 themed version of the Quizzle game – the questions will all be Canadian trivia!
The best part? For every 150 questions correctly answered collectively by event guests, Springfree will donate one trampoline to Cystic Fibrosis Canada. They have ten to give away and need everybody’s help to succeed at this goal! …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: springfree trampoline, yonge-dundas square

Food Diary: Huntington Beach, California

July 20, 2017 By Lena

We can talk about location, attractions, etc. etc… but we all know what makes a good vacation great: the food.
Pictured above, Ahi Poke Bruschetta from Pete’s Sunset Grille. Wakame seaweed salad, ponzu, sriracha aioli, tobiko caviar, bread crisps, olive oil and micro basil.

Our recent trip to Huntington Beach stands out in my mind, in part thanks to the kid-friendly activities, pristine beach and gorgeous weather… and of course, because of the gastronomic delights. Here’s my food diary, showcasing my favourite spots to have a fabulous meal. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #kidifornia, Duke's Huntington Beach, Huntington Beach, visit california

48 Hours in Huntington Beach

July 20, 2017 By Lena

First things first – if you’re ONLY spending 48 hours in Huntington Beach, you’re doing it all wrong.
With 10 miles of pristine uninterrupted beaches, family-friendly activities and a vibrant nightlife, it’s the perfect destination all year round – worthy of at least seven days of your vacation allotment! On our recent #kidifornia adventure we spent two days in Surf City USA (too short!), and today, I’m here with a recap of all the fun – and what we’ll look forward to when we return. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #kidifornia, Huntington Beach, visit california

Front of the Line and Behind the Scenes: Universal Studios Hollywood

July 16, 2017 By Lena

What happens when your kids have complete control of your vacation itinerary?

Oh, you just have the most amazing trip, ever.

For our recent trip to #kidifornia, the boys had a “wish list” – in quotes, because if you have children, you’ll know that any wish list is actually translated to a “must do, won’t accept no for an answer, has to happen” kind of demand. Of course, when Universal Studios Hollywood is at the top of that list, we’re happy to oblige.
From rides and attractions to shopping and entertainment, Universal Studios Hollywood is a mecca of fun. Here’s five things kids LOVE about Universal Studios Hollywood. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #kidifornia, universal studios hollywood, visit california

The Fries That Bind.

July 13, 2017 By Lena

My boys are at an age where we’re finding it hard to find common ground. They’re developing their own interests and hobbies that don’t always include mom and dad (we’re officially uncool!) and I’m finding myself with more and more free time. While I was hoping for this day back when they were toddlers, now that it’s here, I’m not ready to cut the cord!

Thank goodness we can come together and enjoy delicious French fries. They’re a family favourite and because I’m smart (I always have McCain Superfries on hand) and savvy (I know how to make them the star attraction at any meal), we can indulge in our common love of potato goodness. Tex Mex fries, anyone?
Don’t you love main dishes that don’t require a recipe? Simply prepare classic McCain Superfries Straight Cut fries (a tried and true fave!), layer cooked ground beef (flavoured with taco seasoning) and add warm nacho cheese, chopped green onions, salsa and sour cream. Deceptively easy and definitely delicious! …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #FriesThatBind, #NationalFrenchFryDay, McCain Foods, superfries

My “Must Pack” List for Fun Weekend Getaways

July 12, 2017 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

We’ve been travelling a lot lately, normally for a week at a time. In fact, since February 2017, we’ve been away from home every single month! I don’t always love pulling my kids out of school, but some of the opportunities that have come our way (Disney Social Media Moms, Expedia/ Visit Orlando, Pandora – The World of Avatar and Visit California) were just too good to turn down. So, we accepted, we experienced, we have the incredible memories. Hashtag blessed.

However, the only negative aspect about constantly being on the go is the catch-up phase, which never seems to end. Over the past few months, most of my emails began with “I apologize, I’ve been travelling, I’m just catching up…”. Ugh. It seems so lame, but it’s the truth! One press trip blended into the next and I still have about 436 emails to go. But I’m not complaining – just acknowledging the underlying reasons for my douchery.

So when my 10 YEAR wedding anniversary rolled around – yes, a HUGE milestone – I couldn’t bear another long vacation, another month of catch up, another relocation which involved packing, passports, etc. I know it’s awful that I was burned out for our special day, but, given our previous travel experiences and the fact that I already have four more press trips booked for later this year, I like to think that we have a year long celebration going on!
But we couldn’t just let the big day pass without acknowledging it in some way. And our decision was an easy one – spend a weekend in Niagara-on-the-Lake, where we were married 10 years ago. We knew it would bring back such wonderful memories of 07-07-07, our very lucky wedding date. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: Amazon.ca, Fashion, sudio sweden, weekend getaways

Smart Safety: It’s Time to Springfree

July 12, 2017 By Lena

PROMO CODE! Use code SpringInto150YYZ1 to receive a FREE tgoma unit (value of $349) with the purchase of ANY trampoline!

To say my boys love our Springfree Trampoline is an understatement. Where else can they let loose, shake off excess energy, enjoy a fun jumping experience and… become Spider-Man?
There’s no limit where their imaginations will take them.

Now I’ll be honest; when I told my mom that we were getting a trampoline for the kids, her first question was, “But are they safe?” I think that most people associate trampolines with all sorts of heinous injuries, and the thing is, they’re not incorrect. Each year more than 105,000 kids are sent to the hospital because of traditional trampolines – and that’s just in the USA. Repeat after me: not all trampolines are created equal. …

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Filed Under: Lifestyle Tagged With: outdoor fun, springfree trampoline, trampoline

Iced Matcha Latte (It’s a Breeze!)

July 4, 2017 By Lena

Friends, I have something to confess. I’m not proud of my actions, but I can assure you that I’ve since remedied my behaviour and it won’t (likely) happen again. But first, let me spill the beans.

Last year, I spent close to $300 on Iced Matcha Lattes from you-know-where.

Forgive me! I was weak. And when meeting friends, running errands, playing chauffeur or any other activity which allowed me to have one hand free, I’d pop into the nearest franchise and fork over about $6.00 for a grande green drink.

Ludicrous, I know.

The worst part? I should have known better. There’s no secret to this sweet, earthy concoction! Iced Matcha Latte literally translates to ice + green tea powder + milk. Three ingredients! (Two if you don’t consider ice an ingredient.) Since realizing how simple it is to make at home, I whip up a quick batch and take my matcha with me. Now all I have to do is figure out what to buy with all the money I’ve saved! Here’s how you can make it at home for about a dollar a glass.
1. Start with matcha. You can find matcha (green tea powder) very easily online, allowing you to shop around for the best price. I purchase matcha in the $10-12 price range for 50g, but go ahead and spend more if you’re keen on a higher quality. I’ve sampled several grades of several different brands, and truthfully, I’m cool with basic stone-ground matcha. But you do you.

2. Use Almond Breeze Vanilla. It’s perfect for so many reasons! First, the almond beverage’s nutty flavour pairs exceptionally well with the earthiness of matcha. In fact, I believe the flavour profile is even better than cow’s milk for this drink. Second, because Almond Breeze Vanilla is lightly sweetened, there’s no need to add additional sugar or honey (unless you want to). Finally, the consistency – smooth and creamy – is perfect for an iced latte! …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: Almond Breeze, iced green tea latte, matcha

MommyTalks: Getting Back to Birthday Party Basics

July 4, 2017 By Lena

Many mothers are excellent birthday party planners. They develop an age-appropriate theme and source out coordinating invitations, party décor and a local venue. The exact sequence of the party is documented in a flow chart, complete with plan “b” (and even plan “c”) options. The equivalent of a car payment is spent on party food and gift bags.

I am not one of those mothers.

Don’t get me wrong, I wish I was. My kids would probably like me more if I knew all their friends’ names (I don’t), could effectively execute a 20-kid extravaganza (I can’t) and was willing to spend a small fortune in an effort to keep up (I’m not).

So instead, they have me – a loving, doting mother who avoids all mentions of birthday parties until the kids bring it up.
This year, the kids surprised me. When the subject finally came around, they insisted on simply having a few friends over for a backyard birthday party. At first, I was taken aback – you mean we don’t have to invite everyone in the class? We don’t have to rent out the local Bounce ‘n Play?

However, the more we chatted, the more it made sense to me. At ages nine and seven, they had already established deeper friendships with a few classmates, allowing them to select those they wanted to celebrate with. And, I believe there’s something more intrinsic at play: boys have an innate desire to show their friends where they live, their possessions, their lifestyle. Finally, with so much time spent indoors in front of electronics, it feels good to connect with friends outdoors, where kids can burn off energy and enjoy seasonal activities. So, I agreed that they were each allowed to invite 3-4 friends, and I would take care of the rest. …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #mommytalks, allen's, birthday party ideas

Fostering the Love of Reading: Happy Meal Books

June 29, 2017 By Lena

My sons are seven years old and nine years old, and one of their most favourite things in the world is a McDonald’s Happy Meal.
I mean, I get it. Their favourite foods, the autonomy to customize their own meal, and even a little treat and/or toy to round out the experience. It makes them happy, and because I’m secure in the overall nutritional choices I make for my kids, I’m happy too. …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #happymealbooks, #ownabookgiveabook, McDonalds Canada

One Week in Kidifornia: A Family Vacation Play-by-Play

June 27, 2017 By Lena

California, you have my heart.

On our drive home from our recent family vacation, I listened as my husband whistled to the tune of California Girls by The Beach Boys. Smiling, I realized there was only one thing wrong with the song; “girls” needed to be substituted with “vacations”.

I wish they all could be California vacations.

This is usually the part where I gush about my amazing getaway. However, if you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, you already know that we had an incredible time – especially the boys, who took the lead in helping us decide where to go and what to do. In fact, including them in the planning process for a trip to Southern California – an authentically kid-friendly destination – made it a vacation we won’t soon forget. And today, I’m here to show you how you can duplicate our efforts with a play-by-play of our entire itinerary.

Welcome to Kidifornia.
First, let’s go over the logistics of the trip: time of year to travel, flight options and length of stay. The great news is that there’s no bad time to visit California, but there are better times to plan your trip depending on your vacation “must haves”. If hitting the beach is high on your priority list, you’ll want to visit from May to October when the waters are more favourable for swimming. If your kids are set on visiting amusement parks like Disneyland, Legoland and/or Universal Studios Hollywood, September to November and January to May (aside from holiday weekends and spring break) are your best bets as crowds will thin with children in school. And for those who love to pound the pavement and spend the day sightseeing, January through March is an ideal time to indulge in a little shopping and take in a film festival or two; the weather is pleasant and it’s a great way to escape our Canadian winter. …

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Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: #kidifornia, family travel, visit california

Carb Dashian

June 21, 2017 By Lena

Today, I wore my favourite t-shirt to my favourite bakery to pick up my favourite baguette to complement my favourite pasta dinner.
I’ve tried low carb and no carb diets. I’ve even tried limiting my consumption of breads, cereals, sugars – etc, etc. And I’ve been successful… for about a week. But then I fall right off the wagon, because I love carbs, dammit.

Today? This t-shirt? Let’s just say I officially surrender. You got me, bread. Do what you will.

Is there a food that you just can’t quit? Do tell!

Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: bow and drape, carb lover

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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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