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. …
Lifestyle
Holidays with HUAWEI: Top Gift Picks
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. …
Meet the HUAWEI P40 Pro
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. …
The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread – Introducing Kilne
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. …
Moving Forward by Giving Back: School Fundraising with Navy & White
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. …
Quick & Easy Reunion Recipes featuring USA Rice!
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! …
Facial Fillers: Five Questions to Ask Your Cosmetic Dermatologist
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. …
This Holiday Season, Give a Priceless Experience
“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! …
House Hunting? Five Lessons Learned + Introducing Nobul
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. …
Multigenerational Travel Spotlight: Kissimmee, Florida
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.) …
Kia Canada: The Power to Surprise
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. …
LG TWINWash: The Washing Machine for Every Mom
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. …
Why Endy is the Best Mattress Ever
That’s an unnecessarily bold claim, right?
WRONG. I would agree with the claim. My husband would agree with the claim. Even my kids would agree! Endy mattresses ARE the best mattress ever. But for me to clearly articulate just how impressed I am with the process and product, let me break it down for you in a very handy timeline.
(Full disclosure: I received three (3) mattresses and four (4) pillows from Endy in exchange for this review. But you don’t really think I’d make you pay your hard-earned money if I wasn’t confident in the results, do you? Of course not. Regardless of how I sourced the product, I am deliriously happy with everything Endy. Read on.)
September, 2018.
Moving day! Not a lot of people know this, but we moved with only one armchair, two kitchen stools and three mattresses. No kidding! We wanted to start fresh with our furnishings and it was the perfect excuse to update our decor. We “christened” our home by unboxing our Endy mattresses.
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!
Receiving and unboxing the mattress was seamless. Shipping is free for all Endy products, and we literally pulled the mattress out of the box and rolled it flat. As soon as the vacuum-sealed bag was cut open, I could literally see the mattress plump and take shape. From there, I was ready to begin my 100-night trial. That’s right – each customer is eligible for one (1) 100-night trial per purchase, per Endy Mattress. If you don’t love it, Endy will pick up your mattress at no charge and refund the full purchase price.
October, 2018.
(NOTE: The Endy team does NOT recommend sleeping with your mattress on the floor. Not only will a bed frame add height and support, it also ensures the mattress lasts longer – otherwise, moisture can get trapped between the mattress and the floor. So… don’t do as we did. If you’re ordering an Endy, get your bed frame delivered first.)
We’re still all sleeping on the floor because our furniture is backordered, badly. But you know what? I’m not even mad about it. How does Endy produce the most perfectly firm mattress? And how is it that every single person I’ve spoken with, including my own family members, have had the best sleep of their lives on an Endy mattress? I’m thinking it has something to do with the finely crafted 10″, 3-layer foam mattress which delivers cool and amazingly comfortable support. It’s also proudly Canadian made!
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.
December, 2018.
We have a bed! And the lovefest with Endy mattress continues. My kids are sleeping soundly through the night. My husband is snoring less, because he’s not tossing and turning as frequently as he used to. And I’m 100% more productive because my insomnia is no match for Endy’s open air cell foam, which provides optimal comfort, firmness and support – without pressure points. The shredded bamboo charcoal memory foam pillow cradles my head as I drift into slumber. Endy, you had me at “good night.”
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 Shayna. “I’m sold! Buying one for Asher’s new bedroom,” says Georgia. Did they use my code LENA50 to take $50 off any sized mattress? I certainly hope so! And you can too – simply add the code during checkout.
February, 2019.
The single best decision I’ve made for my family’s health in the past year. Yes, I said health. Sleep is as important as nutrition and exercise; it’s when the body repairs, realigns and reprograms itself to take on a new day. In a culture that’s obsessed with the business of “busyness”, I’m proud to champion the benefits of rest and relaxation.
Want to make your dreams sweeter? Make 2019 the year you invest in rest with Endy. A Canadian made mattress with perfect firmness, shipped to your door; Endy is the highest customer-rated mattress in Canada, with the lowest rate of returns. Quite simply, quite perfectly, the best mattress ever.
Find Your Community: How Direct Selling Can Help Launch Your Career
Eleven years ago, I didn’t have the same level of hustle I do today. In fact, the entrepreneurial lifestyle was quite foreign to me; having worked in an office straight out of university, I had become accustomed to a 9-5 corporate way of life.
However, during my first maternity leave, I suddenly had less of a desire to return to the office environment, but nevertheless needed to bring in an income. I decided to try my hand at monetizing a blog, rationalizing that if it didn’t work out, I could always return to my 9-5.
I haven’t set foot in an office since.
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!
Need further inspo? Here’s what Brittany Johnston, a National Vice President at Arbonne has to say: …
New Year, New Ways to Stay on Track!
Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.
I normally write a “New Years Resolutions” post shortly after January 1st, but this year, I decided to be a little more forgiving. After all, is there really only one specific time to start anew? Whether you’re looking after your health, removing toxicity from your life or simply taking up a new hobby, I’m down for making a change when it suits you – not when the calendar flips over.
So, if you’re like me and realized that January came and went and you haven’t crossed anything off your list, I’m here with a few inspiring ideas to get you started! The best part? You can enter to win a $100 Costco Cash Card at the end of this post!
1. Think outside the treadmill. There’s no denying that many new year’s resolutions include joining the gym or dusting off the exercise equipment in your home. However, aside from an elliptical, exercise bike or treadmill, there are many other ways to get your workout in!
Boxing is a fabulous full-body regime and the Everlast Kit: Cardio Fitness Training Bag and Neoprene Gloves is engineered for light boxing and fitness style workouts. The base can be filled with either sand or water for stability and the Neoprene heavy bag gloves feature premium neoprene material. …
When Tasked with a “To Do”, let TaskRabbit do it for you!
I know you know that I recently moved into a new home. And I know you know this because I can’t. stop. talking. about. it.
I’ll admit it; I’m overwhelmed. There’s just so much to do! From the simple things like changing my mailing address to the more complicated matters such as making sure the kids are adjusting well in their new school, lately, I’ve been feeling the pressure. Add in all the tedious tasks like unpacking, assembling furniture and restocking the pantry… and perhaps overwhelmed isn’t a strong enough word! Of course, I’m not alone; 54% of Canadians rank packing and moving among their most dreaded tasks to complete at home.
Therefore, when help is available, I’ll take it. Gladly.
I was recently introduced to TaskRabbit, an on-demand network that conveniently connects people with “Taskers” to handle everyday home improvement tasks. Taskers can help with everything from furniture assembly to sewing to running errands for you – you can even hire a tasker to help you wait in line!
As someone who normally depends on experts for everything from delivery to installation, I was immediately intrigued. How does it work? Who are the taskers? How do I handle booking and payment? Turns out, it’s so simple! Here’s how to save time and sanity when you need help with a task. …
A Lifetime of Love with a First Time Fan
The very first time I laid eyes on my future husband, it was through a computer screen.
YES! Michael and I met online. I know it’s a common meeting place for couples today, but back in 2005, there was still a strong stigma attached to online dating – specifically, the creeps and weirdos I’d surely encounter. The good news? My husband is neither.
However, with online dating, there’s always one major hurdle to cross: the first date. After chatting through the computer and on the phone for a week or two, we decided to plow ahead and not postpone the inevitable. We met for drinks at a local resto-bar and I was officially the most nervous I had been in my entire life.
About 10 minutes into our first date, I knew I wanted a second.
We chatted about everything from family to work life to places we’ve travelled and places we wanted to visit. We talked about kids (a definite yes) and outdoorsy stuff (a definite no), and discovered that we could have crossed paths about a dozen times before we did, yet found each other at the very right time. Needless to say, it was a very, very good first date.
At some point during our conversation, I mentioned that I was a bit of a sports nut. Baseball, basketball and especially hockey – I followed the sports, statistics, players, you name it. Michael laughed and admitted that he wasn’t into sports at all, save for the World Cup and UFC championships. I smiled and nodded and was just a little disappointed, but brushed the feelings aside, quickly. I mean, so what? There were more important things to a relationship than discussing the league’s leading GAA.
Our memorable first date concluded with promises to get together again that weekend. We met on a Wednesday night, so the thought of seeing him again in just a few days was so very welcome. After a long hug and a brief kiss, I drove home with a smile on my face. …
Holidays at Home: Binge Watching with the Dell XPS 13
For the first time in a long time, I’m spending my entire Christmas vacation at home. Gasp!
That’s right, friends – I’m trading palm trees for pajamas! Over the holidays, I have absolutely no plans but to wrap myself in fuzzy blankets, fill mug after mug of peppermint hot chocolate and catch up on all the movies and television series I’ve missed all year.
Translation: Do not disturb.
However, just because I’m lying low doesn’t mean that I haven’t planned for my holiday movie-a-thon and Netflix binge fest. I’ve got everything I need to ensure I have the best viewing experience, including the Dell XPS 13 – an evolution of the most celebrated product in Dell’s history! …
Quiz: Do You Need Winter Tires?
From time to time, I’ve heard arguments from well-meaning friends and family both for and, GASP, against winter tires. Now, if you’ve been following my blog over the last few years, you’ll know I’m a firm – no, staunch – supporter of the use of winter tires. Simply put, they’re a requirement for winter driving. Period.
However, even though I’ve spent a lot of time discussing the merits, I’ve realized that there is still a segment of the population that may not have the most up-to-date information. To help you make a more informed decision, I’ve developed the following quiz!
1. Do you live in Canada?
YES – You need winter tires.
NO – Depending on where you reside, you may not need winter tires. For example, if you see palm trees outside your window, you’re probably okay. Further information is needed.
2. Do you drive in the winter?
YES – You need winter tires.
NO – You may not need winter tires. However, please ensure you have access to safe transportation, and if you carpool or depend on another driver for a ride, insist their car is equipped with winter tires. If possible, pitch in to help with the purchase price – consider it an investment in your safety.
Now, you’ll notice that I didn’t ask if you drive in “snow”; rather, I inquired if you drive in the winter. That’s because I wanted to address one of the biggest misconceptions about winter tires: that they’re only needed once snow begins to fall. Not true! In fact, they’re essential when the temperature consistently falls below 0⁰ Celsius or freezing, which is likely to happen at some point during winter across the country.
…
Confidence Starts with Understanding: Let’s Talk About ADHD
After reading the title of this post, I know that many of my readers will make an assumption right away: that I’m about to start a discussion about childhood ADHD.
I get it. When most parents hear about ADHD, it’s a conversation that begins in the classroom, through the media or with other moms and dads who are also looking for information and resources. And I’m not going to fault you for making that assumption; ADHD is the most common child psychiatric disorder and affects 5 to 12% of school-aged children. (1)
But here’s something we don’t talk about often – and perhaps not nearly often enough – ADHD does not only affect children. Did you know that as many as 4.4% of grownups have ADHD? (2) Translated, that means 1.1 million Canadian adults are living with ADHD. Chances are, someone very close to you is affected by this condition, but may refrain from reaching out due to the myths and social stigma associated with the disorder. (1) (2)
Let’s counteract misperceptions with understanding. …