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Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Lifestyle

Top 5 Reasons to Use TurboTax Live Full Service

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I have a recurring dream (fantasy?) where I’m in the audience of a certain television talk show, and suddenly, the host begins giving out the BEST prizes to everyone. The strange thing? It’s the same prize over and over –

“You get a break! You get a break! You ALL get a break!”

I think I need a break.
This tax season, I’m taking steps to turn that dream into reality: by getting my taxes done from the comfort of my home with a  TurboTax Live Full Service expert. I handed off my taxes to a qualified tax expert (with an average of 10 years of experience!) so I feel confident they will be done right, with the best possible return! …

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Celebrate Your Side Hustle! Introducing TurboTax Self-Employed Full Service

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If you started a small business during the past two years, you’re in great company! Two million Canadian entrepreneurs – including a large percentage of “mompreneurs” – created businesses during COVID-19. Whether you’ve registered your interior design company, launched a home-based bakery, curated a social media following or (insert dream job here), moms are wearing more hats than ever and side hustles have been pushed into the spotlight.

As a business owner myself, I can say that the rewards are well worth the risk! However, I will add the following caveat: no one prepared me for the sheer amount of paperwork that comes with being your own boss. From invoices (incoming and outgoing) to contracts to every possible .docx file in between, I spend a lot of time managing the least fun part of my business. And now that we’re in the middle of tax season… ugh.
I know that many new mompreneurs are in the same boat. Especially if this is your first or second year identifying as self-employed (congratulations on officially elevating your side hustle to replace your full-time income!), you may not have the time or expertise to ensure you’re taking advantage of every tax credit, tax strategy or tax savings available to you. Listen, I get it! The thing about passion projects is that it’s easy to focus on what drives you, and usually, that doesn’t include calculating the depreciation on the car you use to drop off your homemade welcome mats….

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If I Knew Then What I Know Now… Living with Psoriasis

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When I was just 11 years old, I asked my mom to look at my scalp. “It feels strange,” I worried. It was mildly itchy and had a tingly, almost burning sensation. Additionally, I had felt quite a few bumpy patches that I couldn’t keep my hands off. “Have you been picking?” she asked, knowing that I tended to scrape and pick at scabs. “Yes,” I admitted. “It’s very itchy!”

(That was only partially true. Have you ever seen the payoff from psoriasis scabs? They’re like the size of cornflakes and I found them so satisfying to peel! Disclaimer: Don’t do this!)

My mom marched me to our family doctor who a) diagnosed me with psoriasis and b) suggested a coal tar shampoo of which I can still recall the smell to this day. Faithfully, once a week, I tipped my head over in the bathtub while my mom massaged the shampoo into my hair and scalp. When I was older, I took over the duties myself, and weaned myself off the regimen when my psoriasis improved – though it never completely went away.

While I tried not to let my psoriasis get me down, it nevertheless affected me psychologically throughout my teens and twenties. I rarely wore my hair up, concerned that the scales and scabs would be more visible if I pulled my locks away from my scalp. I panicked when my hairdresser went on vacation, knowing I’d be too embarrassed to have a new stylist do my hair. When I dated, I freely disclosed my condition out of fear that a man would nonchalantly run his fingers through my hair – and draw back in surprise.

It’s obvious that while I thought I was “managing” my psoriasis, I was still allowing it to control my day-to-day. Fast forward to 2014, when, after decades of letting my psoriasis symptoms wax and wane, my joints flared to the point where I was disabled with swelling and pain for over six months. The diagnosis: psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Today, I have mild flares of psoriasis on my scalp, lips and elbows, but I’m considered to be in clinical remission thanks to the medications I take for my psoriatic arthritis (which have the added benefit of keeping my psoriasis in check). I regularly see both a dermatologist and rheumatologist for my conditions, making sure to advocate for myself when I need to. Recently, I had a chance to sit down with Dr. Geeta Yadav, a dermatologist based in Toronto at Skin Science Dermatology.

In the days leading up to the interview, an idea started to form –  I wanted to share with you some things I wish I knew about psoriasis decades ago (that I know now). Dr. Yadav was knowledgeable and thoroughly answered my questions, which in turn allowed me to create the following list for you!
1. Psoriasis is a lifelong condition.

If I had clearly understood that my psoriasis would likely be with me for the rest of my life, I would have taken more definitive steps sooner to get my condition under control (and certainly before it progressed to PsA). …

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Mydoh: Earn, Spend, Play. Smart!

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This post is sponsored by Mydoh. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.

I have a teen and tween and they’re both EXCITED to perform their weekly chores. Yes, really! And it’s all thanks to Mydoh, the digital app with a Smart Cash Card that helps kids learn and practice money management.
However, things weren’t always so simple. Let me rewind:

Now that our boys are back in school, I decided it was a great time to re-establish a routine for chores. Together, we decided what they would be responsible for, and how much we would compensate them for each completed task. Generally, the boys had weekly responsibilities, which included washing their uniforms, dusting areas of the home, cleaning their bedrooms and reducing clutter from high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and family room….

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Rewarding My Lifestyle with Neo

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Rewards.
Cashback.
No Annual Fee.

Oh yeah, you’re speaking my language, Neo Financial!
I was first persuaded to join the Neo Community via a promotion from Hudson’s Bay. There’s just something about the words “additional % off…” that I can’t refuse! I was absolutely floored by the simple process that had me approved, with credit card number in hand, in less than 20 minutes. Everything was done digitally, including providing a selfie with my mobile phone! …

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Mommy Needs a Cocktail! Iconic Mixed Drinks to Make at Home

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As the world begins to open safely, we’re once again dreaming, planning and enjoying leisure travel! While everyone has their own level of comfort when it comes to vacations abroad, at the very least, we’re all hoping to move in a decidedly forward and positive direction.

In the meantime, why not bring a little bit of the Caribbean into your home this summer? Beaches Resorts has generously shared the recipes for their most popular cocktails mixed at their all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. Until you can experience the ultimate luxury family getaway at one of their stunning properties (my pick: Beaches Turks & Caicos!), let’s cheers at home to sandy beaches and warm breezes!

And to be honest – whether it’s planning the perfect getaway or simply balancing the highs and lows of everyday life, sometimes, mommy needs a cocktail!
Be sure to pin the following recipe cards for a taste of paradise at home – I’m sure you’ll feel all the vacay vibes while recreating these popular cocktails! (Tip: Simply leave out the alcohol for a delicious mocktail.) …

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What Will Your Story Be? A Conversation about GARDASIL®9

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This post is sponsored by Merck Canada. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.

It was just two weeks ago that an email landed in my inbox: “Physical Education Form – Please Sign”. Normally I skim over such permission slips, but this time, the words seemed to jump off the page –

We will examine some aspects of sexuality, including sexual characteristics, sexual identity, and sexual roles. We will review the changes of puberty and the development of male and female fertility. We will discuss sexually transmitted diseases, and how to prevent them.

It suddenly hit me – I’ll soon have brand new teenager in the house. And he’s almost TALLER than me.
Conversations that I’d convinced myself I could put off for months (years?) suddenly became a priority. And while I know that my boy’s father will take the reins for much of the “talk”, as a woman, and as a Canadian mother to boys who may choose to become sexually active in the coming years, it’s my responsibility to openly discuss HPV infection, cervical cancer and how to help protect against both. By getting vaccinated to help protect himself against HPV, his own risk of getting infected is reduced and he may, in turn, be less likely to transmit HPV to his partner(s). …

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Live Your Life in Style: The All-New, All-Hybrid 2021 Toyota Sienna

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This year, I’ve been tasked with replacing not one – but TWO – family vehicles. Our leased cars are due back in the spring and summer, and over the past four years, our boys have grown from primary school kids to tweens to teens. Therefore, our “wish list” for a vehicle has evolved somewhat dramatically; having multiple interior power points and ports to charge the kids’ iPads and electronics is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have.

If you told me a few months ago that I’d seriously consider a Toyota Sienna, I would have raised my eyebrows in surprise. Then again, the all-new, all-hybrid 2021 Toyota Sienna has done much to pleasantly surprise me – in the best way possible.

Considered a technology leader for modern families, this boldly designed minivan raises the bar for style, safety, comfort, versatility and fuel efficiency. Quite simply, it’s what a next-generation minivan should be.
First impression: the styling is gorgeous. I expected the 2021 Toyota Sienna to be spacious – but I didn’t expect it to be sexy. The interior boasts a clean and streamlined design with a sleek dashboard, a 9-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system and the innovative Bridge Console, which is the key to allocating personalized space to the driver and front passenger. …

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Your 2020 Tax Return: A Little Lift from TurboTax

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In keeping with my 2021 resolutions to a) stop procrastinating and b) simplify my life in order to make “a)” a possibility, I’ve decided that this is the year I won’t be scrambling to do my taxes! The best part? You can benefit from my newfound proactiveness: read on for a review of TurboTax Live Full Service, a simple and affordable way to have your taxes done by a real tax expert – without leaving the comfort of your home!
There’s no doubt it’s more important than ever to file correctly and get every dollar we deserve. However, finding work/ life balance in COVID times is also a challenge; both my kids have been learning from home for almost a year, and in between being a parent, entrepreneur, photographer, at-home chef, armchair therapist… sigh, the list goes on!… I don’t necessarily have the time or energy to prepare my own taxes. My main goal heading into this tax season was to obtain the largest possible tax refund while staying safe at home. …

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Holidays with HUAWEI: Top Gift Picks

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There’s a common thread among the comments I receive on my social posts featuring HUAWEI:

“I really need to look into HUAWEI.”
“I’ve heard great things about this brand.”
“Everyone I ask says they love HUAWEI! Need to learn more.”

So… what are you waiting for? The brand is absolutely coveted worldwide, by tech enthusiasts and mom creators alike. When you’re ready to make the switch, HUAWEI makes it easy with several quick and reliable methods of transferring apps and data from your previous phone.

However, in addition to the HUAWEI P40 Pro, which boasts the world’s best smartphone camera, Huawei also offers dynamic wearable tech. In fact, the HUAWEI Watch GT2 Pro and HUAWEI Freebuds Pro are two of my top picks for gifting this holiday season!The brand-new HUAWEI Watch GT 2 Pro is the most comprehensive model in the series to date. The very first thing that caught my attention is that although it primarily functions as a sports watch, its slim, elegant design is more GQ than Sports Illustrated. …

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Meet the HUAWEI P40 Pro

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I struggled with whether to write this post directed at moms or content creators. Both could equally benefit from the world’s best smartphone camera, and certainly, when I think of a mom in 2020, the aproned-serving-roast-beef-dinner maternal figure doesn’t really come to mind.

Then, it clicked – moms are actually content creators, too! We’re capturing video and clicking photos of our children’s daily moments, sharing insights with friends and family (as we share the content we’ve created on social media), and today, keeping up with the Joneses includes comparing whose smartphone has the best battery life. (My vote is HUAWEI! The P40 Pro features a SuperCharge 4200 mAh Battery that goes from 0 to 70% charge in 30 minutes.)

Mom creators, meet the HUAWEI P40 Pro.
The HUAWEI P40 Pro boasts a Quad Vision Leica Camera, which allows you to take extraordinary photos at any time of day and at any distance. In a world where we use “the Cadillac of…” to describe the cream of the crop, ladies, Leica cameras are the Cadillac of smartphone cameras. Let’s talk specs:

50 MP Ultra Vision Camera
12 MP Telephoto Camera
40 MP Ultra-Wide Cine Camera
3D Depth Sensing Camera

However, in addition to its impressive camera specifications, one thing that really attracts me to the P40 Pro is just how intelligent it is. The 3D Depth Sensing Camera can almost immediately sense what should be in focus, whether it’s a person or object. This is especially valuable when you’re capturing shots while multitasking – because even when you’re juggling a million things, at least your photos will look like you’re in control. …

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The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread – Introducing Kilne

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In fact, a Kilne bread knife may be the best thing to slice your bread, too.

We’re all spending more time than ever in the kitchen, and trust me when I say that it’s MUCH more enjoyable when you have the right tools! I had been on the hunt for a new set of knives since spring, when I embarrassingly had to admit that our “starter set” of knives, hastily purchased when we were first married, were a) already 13 years old, and b) woefully inadequate to keep up with my unofficial new role as a prep cook.
Enter Kilne. Designed in Canada and crafted from high-quality German steel, Kilne knives are simply the best knives for home chefs. The highlight reel:

High Grade German Steel: Blades crafted from Chromium-molybdenum-vanadium steel stay sharp for precision cutting.

Full Tang: Solid steel from tip to tail gives exceptional strength and perfect balance.

Ergonomic Design: Handle grip and bolster provide a secure hold, even with wet hands. …

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Moving Forward by Giving Back: School Fundraising with Navy & White

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This school year looks different. Then again, EVERYTHING looks different.
Now that we’ve officially spent 3/4 of the year getting used to our “new normal”, there’s an unspoken willingness among friends, family and fellow parents to simply move forward. No, 2020 isn’t what we expected. Yes, we will pivot and adjust.

Of course, when it comes to schooling, the changes are more evident than ever. From learning at home to in-class mask wearing and hand sanitizing, we’ve tasked our children and educators to establish new strategies and routines that will allow for continuous learning and development – in a safe, socially responsible manner. …

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Quick & Easy Reunion Recipes featuring USA Rice!

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The best part of summer 2020? That’s an easy one: reuniting with loved ones.

As certain restrictions have lifted in many cities across Canada, families and friends are able to get together in a smart and safe way – limiting their numbers, staying within the same bubble, and most importantly, continuing to social distance from others. For me, it’s a chance to reunite with my extended family and closest friends, and do the one thing we love about summer: enjoying a meal, drink or coffee together in our backyard.

Of course, having a repertoire of quick and easy recipes is just part of my charm!

For those impromptu drop ins, late afternoon coffee chats and lazy summer nights where you’d rather spend time with your loved ones than cooking in the kitchen, read on for simple meal ideas, perfect to put together with a few favourite ingredients you may already have on hand. The star of the show? USA Rice!
USA Rice is a key pantry staple and can be used in so many delicious ways. This gluten-free, low allergen, original ancient grain is virtually fat free and serves up the complex carbohydrates your mind and muscles need to function. Rice has always been an integral part of my diet, and now it’s a staple ingredient in so many of the meals and snacks that my family loves, too. We tend to cook a big batch on the weekend and then refrigerate to use in soups, fried rice, side dishes and even desserts. One pot of cooked USA Rice can last us over five days and be used in five different ways! …

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Facial Fillers: Five Questions to Ask Your Cosmetic Dermatologist

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This post is sponsored by JUVÉDERM®. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.

A few weeks ago, I shared my feelings from before, during and after the Beauty Decoded Live event by JUVÉDERM®. Go ahead and take a moment to read the post – don’t worry, I’ll wait.

Back already? Great. You’ll see that following the event, I felt more comfortable than ever at the prospect of having facial filler injections. Based on the wealth of information provided at Beauty Decoded Live, combined with the opportunity to see a live demonstration with almost instant results, I went from thinking facial fillers were something that weren’t for me to making an appointment at a local cosmetic dermatology clinic.
Dermetics, you are incredible.

Since admittedly I’m a noob when it comes to cosmetic procedures, I had a few questions (okay, more than a few). And while I’d love to provide a complete transcript of my 90-minute appointment, I figured it would be much easier to simply pick five questions I feel are absolutely necessary when considering facial fillers. …

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This Holiday Season, Give a Priceless Experience

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“Experiences, Not Things.” The saying was etched in sparkly red letters on a plush white throw pillow, carefully positioned on an elegant chair in a store window. I recall stopping in front of the small store, staring at the pillow while pondering the words before me.

Experiences, not things.

The moment was particularly poignant because just hours before, I had engaged in a discussion with my girlfriend about how travel is the perfect gift. You see,  it’s actually three gifts in one:

1) The gift of anticipation. Planning a trip with friends and family fosters closeness and offers a continuous build in excitement! From the moment you start thinking about booking a trip to the last-minute discussions about wardrobe, you’re on a happy high anticipating your great adventure.

2) The gift of experience. These include the sights you see, the foods you eat, and of course, the laughs you share with loved ones. Often, experiences also involve discovering a new country, culture or customs, which make them all the more enriching!

3) The gift of memories. Going through your camera roll; sharing an inside joke with a friend (“what happens in…”) or finding a ticket stub in your jacket pocket. You relive the moment all over again, hanging on to the good times until you start the cycle all over again.

This is why we choose experiences over things.

Of course, there are experiences, and then there are Priceless Experiences. Whether you’re booked to travel abroad or prefer to stay closer to home, Priceless Cities is available exclusively to Mastercard cardholders and provides access to unforgettable experiences around the world.
The best part is, there’s something for everyone! Enjoy a glass of prosecco and a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour at the hottest restaurant near you or play golf with a PGA pro while staying at a world-renowned resort and spa. You can even skip the line at a popular theatre show or take a hands-on donut workshop! …

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House Hunting? Five Lessons Learned + Introducing Nobul

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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. …

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Multigenerational Travel Spotlight: Kissimmee, Florida


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I have a travel bucket list; it’s true. There are places that I’ve yet to visit and I know that I’ll eventually get there. But in the meantime, I have a more pressing need – and it’s not a place, it’s a scenario. It’s a multigenerational family vacation; the chance to have my sons experience a holiday with their grandparents. Truly, nothing would make me happier.

Multigenerational travel is becoming more and more popular as families try to carve out quality time together. Especially around the holidays, as families gather and enjoy each other’s company, it’s only natural to want to extend those feelings of happiness and discuss a family vacation.

However, most often these trips can be decided rather spontaneously (sometimes, after copious amounts of food and drink) and there is a lack of communication through the planning process. If you’re planning a multigenerational family vacation, here are my top tips to ensure that everyone in the family, from young to young-at-heart – has a great time!

1. Make sure to clearly outline expectations when it comes to who’s paying, and what they’re paying for.

Occasionally, the grandparents will say “We’ll pay for the family vacation!” – but they’ll fail to define what that includes. For example, when travelling to an all-inclusive resort, that may include flights and accommodations. But what happens when dear daughter-in-law wants to visit the hotel spa? Get together those travelling and be upfront about financial responsibilities. Often, the easiest way is for everyone to pay their way separately, but if one person wants to play Santa, set clear expectations for what will be covered.
(Also, no IOU’s! If you can’t afford to make the family vacay, stay drama-free by staying home.) …

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Kia Canada: The Power to Surprise

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Around this time, every four years, our dinnertime conversations are peppered with words such as panoramic moon roof, heated seats, horsepower, trunk space… Yes, we are in the market for a new family automobile.

This year, we have a jump start on our selection process, as we were recently treated to an extended, two-week test drive of the newly redesigned 2019 Kia Sorento SXL. Admittedly, I had no prior experience with Kia automobiles, making this partnership the perfect opportunity to experience the brand with no previous biases. Today, nearing the end of our test drive, I can sum up my thoughts on the Kia Sorento quite simply: Yes, Kia – I AM surprised.
Here are my Top Five Surprises with the 2019 Kia Sorento. …

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LG TWINWash: The Washing Machine for Every Mom

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I am absolutely, irrevocably in love with the LG TWINWash™ system. Quite simply, LG has reimagined the washing machine, allowing me to divide and conquer my laundry by washing two loads at the same time!

Now, if you want to fully understand what makes my LG washer and dryer so essential to my life, read my previous post, “Divide and Conquer: A Better Laundry Experience with LG TWINWash.” However, you may be thinking to yourself, that’s great for you, but what about ME? Friends, I present to you: LG TWINWash – the washing machine for every mom.

The Transporter. Sounds futuristic! But really, you’re a chauffeur… for 12-year olds… to get to and from hockey practice. And you don’t have time to waste; you need the game uniforms washed for a 6AM practice on Saturday morning, while trying to plan outfits for a much-deserved date night later that evening. Go on! Do both loads – at once. The innovative LG TWINWash machine allows you to wash the kids’ (stinky) clothes in the front-loading washer up top while the smaller LG SideKick™ pedestal washer simultaneously washes a second load of clothes down below. That’s not just laundry done fast – it’s laundry done right!
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. …

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