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. …
(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 “
At the time, I believed I’d be sleeping on the mattress on the floor for a week or two, just until our bedroom furniture arrived. I couldn’t have been more wrong, yikes!
I’m wondering if we’re the first family to complete the 100-night trial with the mattresses on the floor. Yet every single night, we had the most wonderful, restful sleep imaginable. I remember lazing in “bed” with my husband, marvelling at the cool, perfectly firm support. If you had asked me before trying Endy mattress if I thought a one-mattress-fits-all could be exactly suited to my needs, I wouldn’t have believed you. Now, I want you to believe me.
It’s around this time that I’m starting to hear from friends and family. “I can’t wait for my Endy mattress to arrive!” says 
Want to make your dreams sweeter? Make 2019 the year you invest in rest with 
Entrepreneurs are not born, they’re made – often as a result of circumstances like my own. And today, there’s no shortage of opportunities for those who want to launch their “side hustle” into a career. Direct selling is a prime example of how to work independently and build a business with low start-up and overhead costs. In fact, OVER 1 MILLION Canadians are involved in direct selling! Whether you’re trying to create personal income or simply because you enjoy a company’s products or services, direct selling offers the flexibility to set your own hours, the freedom to run your own business, and of course, an ideal level of work-life balance. Chances are, you know someone who sells beauty or hair products, kitchen essentials, clothing or more!
For example, Reid is somewhat of a Beyblade champion, so he has offered a coupon for Beyblade lessons during recess to those friends he thinks would enjoy learning from the “master”. Ryder, who has a vast knowledge of Pokémon, has offered to share trading techniques and intel to those who are interested. The coupons are an out-of-the-box way to show love and kindness on Valentine’s Day, and I hope to make it a tradition! …