Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Lifestyle

Smart Safety: It’s Time to Springfree

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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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It’s Not Just a Headache.

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I know a thing or two about migraines. In fact, if you were a reader back in 2013, you may remember my post, When the Pill is a Pain: Birth Control After Birth. In the article, I described my struggle with migraines – even recounting my very first episode, which I can still recall vividly – and my theory with respect to the use of oral contraceptives.

It’s been four years since I wrote the article, and I’m happy to report that since discontinuing the pill, I have not experienced a migraine with aura. However, I still suffer through unilateral, pulsating head pain on a fairly regular basis, normally triggered by changes in hormones and even weather. And while I’m not entirely certain they would all be classified as migraines, I’ve learned to manage my symptoms and am often able to minimize my down time.
Do you, or does someone you know, suffer from migraines? You can find a quick migraine test on www.migrainecanada.org, a website dedicated to education about migraines, brought to you by the Canadian Headache Society. Here, you’ll also find helpful links, videos and other tools to help you understand more about this debilitating condition.

I’d also love for you to join a very informative Facebook Live, hosted by Migraine Canada and taking place on Wednesday, June 21st at 9PM EST. Dr. Sian Spacey and Dr. Elizabeth Leroux will talk about headaches, migraines and their symptoms and treatment options. The chat will be approximately 15 minutes – everyone is welcome to attend! …

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Build Your Own Father’s Day Gift with Google MakeLab!

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Still stuck on what to get dad for Father’s Day? Here’s a unique gift he’ll love!

If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, visit the Best Buy store in Heartland (Mississauga) on Saturday, June 17th from 1PM to 6PM. They’ll be hosting a FREE workshop event where everyone is welcome to design and build their own, customized, one-of-a-kind Father’s Day gift with the help from the Google MakeLab laser printer!
I love that parents and kiddos can work together to make unique, techie-inspired gifts. It’s a creative way to spend quality time together this weekend – exactly what Father’s Day is all about. Plus, while you’re there, you’ll have a chance to browse some of the hottest electronics and gadgets that are sure to be at the top of every dad’s wish list. Here are some of my favourite picks! …

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I Am Your Father.

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

If you don’t recognize the iconic phrase in the title of this post, we can’t be friends. Because, you see, round here – we’re bona fide Star Wars fans.
Of course, while we don’t think Darth Vader will be getting a Father’s Day card this year (though I am hopeful he’ll make a holographic appearance from beyond the grave in Episode VIII), the phrase “I am your father” has certainly taken on a life of its own. And, we all know someone who has uttered these words to their child at some point in their life.

Although most would argue that the father-son dynamic between Anakin and Luke was far from ideal, the familial relationship – though it happened a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away – is nonetheless relatable for many families today. Maturity. Betrayal. Awareness. Love. Acceptance. Forgiveness. Of course, if we had to sum up the emotions and choose one prevailing theme, it would be a father’s ultimate love for his child. …

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Feel More Energized with Blue Light, Naturally.

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I know you’ve been waiting for this.

Based on feedback from my previous post (and there’s A LOT of curiosity and excitement), you all want to know one thing:

“Does the Philips goLITE BLU energy light work? Do you feel more energized, Lena?”

I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about my answer – maybe too much time – because I want to answer completely and honestly as I always do. At first, I thought I’d write a list of pros and cons… but truthfully, there weren’t many cons. Then I thought I’d share snippets of my mood diary, which is by far the most convincing argument to go out and try the goLITE BLU. But in the end, I decided a picture is worth a thousand words, so I’ll just let you decide for yourself. Your question: Do you feel more energized, well rested and happier?

My answer:
It’s true, friends – I’m feeling on top of my game, on top of the world. And here’s why I think the Philips goLITE BLU had an important role to play. …

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This Summer, Springfree!

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

When it comes to Springfree Trampolines, it’s an all-out love fest.

Your kids will love their Springfree Trampoline because it provides hours of outdoor fun. They will jump, bounce, role play and even engage in an interactive Smart Play experience with tgoma.

Your kids’ friends will love your Springfree Trampoline, too. Yes, your backyard will become a party zone.

You’ll love your Springfree Trampoline because it encourages activity, creativity, and greatly improves coordination and confidence. And most of all, it offers a safe jumping experience, especially when kids adhere to the one-at-a-time rules of play.

What’s not to love? Oh right. It also makes the best birthday present EVER.
This year, thanks to the good folks at Springfree Trampoline, I had an opportunity to surprise my sons with one of the items at the top of their wish lists: a trampoline of their very own. I’ve had my eye on Springfree Trampolines for quite some time, mainly due to their patented safety design and smart engineering. Because I don’t want to babysit my boys while they’re in their own backyard, it wasn’t a question of which trampoline to purchase; rather, when we’d go with a Springfree. …

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Bye, Bye Blues… Hello goLITE BLU

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Lately, coffee ain’t doing what it should.

I don’t know if it’s the *excessively* long winter we’re having (frost in May? Really, Mother Nature?) or the constant travel, late nights and hours spent at the computer… I’m just not feeling my best.

Now I can guess what you’re thinking – “constant travel, late nights and hours spent at the computer, that would make anyone feel run down!” – true, but this is a lifestyle I’m used to, so to suddenly be out of sorts… well, it’s nerve racking.
I’ve been trying to compensate. I increased my vitamin intake, adding Vitamin C and D to my daily multivitamin. I dragged out my old juicer to give “energy boosting juices” one more shot. And, shamefully, I increased my coffee consumption to two cups a day, after scaling back to just one cup for almost a year. Admittedly, that was the biggest blow to my ego; knowing I was giving in to vices instead of trying a more healthful approach.

But it’s not just my energy that’s down – it’s my mood, too. Admittedly, I am affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and feel like a completely different person during the winter months. Although the calendar tells me it’s May, the red-labelled frost warnings on weather websites tell a different story – and my body is reacting accordingly. …

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How I Fell in Love Again: A 4K Story

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At the tender age of fourteen… I fell in love. With baseball.

You may recognize the year – 1992 – and you’ll probably recognize these names, too: Roberto Alomar, Joe Carter, Juan Guzman and Kelly Gruber. These were the men I followed; I knew their batting averages and on base percentage. I celebrated every home run, every run batted in, every base on balls. I held them to the highest standard. My role model (and even my first crush) could be found in that 40-man roster.

I followed the boys of summer straight through to their World Series Championship win that fall, and again the following year, when they repeated the feat. By the time I saw Joe Carter jumping up and down for the second time, I was already a bona fide baseball superfan.

Now I want to say that I continued to obsess over the Blue Jays, even as they spent years trying to rebuild a championship team, but the simple truth is that I was a teenager and I had more pressing issues (cough, boys) to attend to. …

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Make 150 Count.

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1987. I was nine years old; a third grade student, a child of the eighties. It was the first year I was asked to participate in the school’s annual fundraiser – the “MS Read-A-Thon” – where students asked friends and family to sponsor them for every book read.
_DSC2104As the donation booklets were distributed, my eyes ran up and down the columns at the back of the brochure. Sponsors. Amount Offered. Books Read.

I paled slightly, my hands trembling as I shoved the booklet in my desk. I felt sick.

My immigrant parents weren’t the type to support charitable initiatives. Don’t get me wrong; they willfully donated to their church and its associated fundraising campaigns, it’s just that they were much less inclined to extend that generosity to organizations unknown to them. I feared that I would be the only student who didn’t raise a sizable contribution – or any at all! – for the fundraiser.

My grade 3 teacher could sense that something was off. Pulling me aside during outdoor recess, she asked if I had any questions about the annul Read-A-Thon. Not wanting to lie, I confided in her.  …

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Welcome to #PaybackSeason: Busting the Top 5 Tax Myths

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It’s the middle of April, which means you are likely in one of two camps: those who have finished filing their taxes, and those who are postponing the inevitable for as long as humanly possible. Can you guess which camp I’m in?

Whether you’re blissfully spending your refund or are still in the process of collecting all your forms and receipts, it’s always a good idea to ensure that you have the correct information. Friends and neighbours may often be a source of great advice, but when it comes to taxes, it’s best to leave the advice to the experts.
banner_media-centerCourtesy of my friends at H&R Block Canada, here are some of the top tax myths. Spoiler alert: cats are not considered dependents for tax purposes. I’m serious.

Myth #1: If I receive a tax refund, my return is approved. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will process your return and send you a refund fairly promptly. However, the CRA also has three years in which to review returns and request follow up paperwork. The review may result in a Notice of Reassessment with a balance owing. For example, if you claimed moving expenses that were not eligible, the CRA will disallow your claim and send you a tax bill. …

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All Aboard! WIN a Cruise Vacation for Two with AIR MILES!

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The phone rings on a busy weeknight, just as you’re ushering the kids out the door. You consider letting it go to voicemail, but you’re close to a handset and can avoid checking messages later. You answer – on the other line, a pleasant voice informs you that, courtesy of AIR MILES, you’ve won a tropical cruise vacation for two.

What is your reaction?

A) Denial – nope, it’s too good to be true.
B) Confusion – you don’t recall entering a giveaway!
C) Cautious Optimism – Could this actually be real?
D) Pure Joy – THEY PICKED ME! I WON!

Friends, I’m here today to tell you that the correct answer is D. The best part? You may have already entered to win – just by using your AIR MILES Card as you normally would!
logo2Introducing the AIR MILES All Aboard Cruise Giveaway. As part of their commitment to providing Collectors with the best experience possible – AIR MILES is giving away 1,300 staterooms aboard the AIR MILES All Aboard Cruise.

(That is NOT a typo! 1,300 cruise vacations for two, including flights!) …

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Hashtag, No Sick Days

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Smack in the middle of what seems to be the worst cold and flu season – well, EVER – I know some of y’all may be thinking, No Sick Days? Don’t even go there Lena.

I get it. Everyone I know is sick, has been sick, or is getting over being sick. And just in case you’re wondering, heck yes I was sick, too. (It took a full 10 days to recover!) In Canada, seasonal flu activity begins as early as September and continues until late May, affecting a large percentage of the population.

My entire family got the flu shot almost as soon as it was available. I’ve practiced obsessive hand- washing and other virus-evasion techniques, including, but not limited to, holding my breath until I almost turned blue to navigate a checkout lane filled with hideous hackers. I’ve sanitized surfaces, avoided crowded malls and declined invitations to all non-essential events.

And then I took a 9-day vacation with my family. Two airplane rides, three hotels, one cruise ship.

65,000 people at the happiest place on earth.
16465433_1623753451266724_6140890307916464128_nOh yeah, I was due to wave that white flag.

So here’s the scoop. I was down, but never out. I managed my cold to the best of my abilities, using a few tried and true methods. Need relief from your cold and flu symptoms? Here’s what you can do. …

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Protect Yourself: Don’t Be a Victim of Identity Theft

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

It’s not a subject that is at the top of everyone’s mind, but in my humble opinion, it’s not discussed enough. This year’s identity theft statisitcs are in. And, they are downright scary.
Almost one in five Canadians have, or know someone who has, been a victim of identity theft. Think about that for a moment. Statistically, that means by the time you’re done reading this post, hundreds of Canadians will have been victimized.

Don’t be one of them.

Identity theft is the most serious, non-violent crime and fastest growing type of fraud in North America. When someone takes your personal information and uses it for financial gain, it is classified as identity theft or fraud. According to Statistics Canada, identity fraud has increased by 8.62% from 2013 to 2014. In 2014 more than 20,000 identity theft cases were reported in Canada, with a loss of more than $10 million, according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. …

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News You Can Use: Smart Diabetes Management

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Often, when my husband and I see one of our little guys struggle with life’s basic lessons – like tying a shoelace or cracking an egg – we often say, “If this was an app he’d have it mastered in 15 seconds.”

There’s no denying it – we live in a digital world.

I embrace advancements in technology, particularly when it comes to healthcare. Visiting with my family doctor, he can pull up my medical history before we’ve finished our small talk. After having blood work done, I love that I can view my results online within 12 hours. And when I have appointments with specialists, it’s terribly convenient they can chat with my family doctor – in real time – via their own messaging app.

We know app technology has paved the way for digital healthcare management, helping us to take charge of chronic health conditions, stay fit and focus on healthy eating. Today, I’m pleased to introduce you to CONTOUR® NEXT ONE. If you, or someone you love, is living with diabetes, you’ll want to read on.

Ascensia Diabetes Care was recently issued a Health Canada license for the CONTOUR® NEXT ONE blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS) in Canada. The CONTOUR NEXT ONE is a new smart meter that presents blood glucose (BG) results in a simple and easy-to-use manner that is personalized to the user.

The meter features smartLight Technology and Bluetooth to connect to smartphones. When used with the CONTOUR DIABETES App, patients can:

– View results over time
– Add events to the readings
– Share results and reports with healthcare professionals …

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Stay Safe, Friends: Winter Driving Tips from Michelin Canada

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You know how some memories from your childhood just stick with you? I was 11 years old, in grade five. We had just returned from Christmas break and a fellow classmate, Tommy something-or-the-other, was recounting a horrifying ordeal while vacationing in Florida.

“It SNOWED!” he said in disbelief. “And there were accidents EVERYWHERE because my dad said that no one in Florida knows how to drive in the snow! We were stuck on the Interstate for SIX hours!”

At the time, I recall being quite pleased – I loathed Tommy and was secretly happy that his vacation was at least partially ruined by Mother Nature. Of course, at 11 years old, I couldn’t process that the numerous accidents could have resulted in injuries, extra costs in time and insurance, or both. But one thing did stick with me, even after more than two decades: If you don’t know how to drive in winter road conditions, you’re in trouble.

Today, I’m pleased to share some winter driving tips from Michelin driving expert, Carl Nadeau, to help you stay safe on roads this season. …

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Holiday Shopping? Here’s How NOT to Blow Your Budget!

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… as long as you’re not feeling guilty about overspending!

Okay, let’s get real for a sec. How many of y’all set your holiday shopping budget according to how much you *want* to spend vs. how much you truly believe you’ll need to spend? It’s a mistake many Canadians make (intentional or not), and it’s the easiest way to blow your budget this festive season.

Not on my watch!

I’m happy to share with you my very best tips for 1) creating a reasonable budget, 2) accounting for everyone you’ll need to shop for, 3) monitoring your spending in an easy and convenient way and 4) even sourcing the best “emergency” gift! Watch my recent segment from What She Said below:

It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of prepaid cards, such as Mastercard, American Express and Visa. Not only do they offer many of the benefits of a traditional credit card (YES – you can use them online and over the phone!), they come with a distinct advantage for budgeting: a set amount of funds pre-loaded onto the card. That means when the funds are depleted, you holiday shopping spree is over – which assures you’ll never go over budget! …

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Friends, Get Re-Leaf! Introducing Advil® 12 Hour

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Ask a Canadian, in fall, what he or she is doing over the weekend, and you’ll invariably receive an answer like this:

“I’m cleaning up the front yard. And the back. We have a ton of leaves to rake.”

T’is the season of knit sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes and leaves. Leaves everywhere! Sure, they’re fun for the kids… especially naughty younger brothers…
14726427_170006780129508_7160100388153065472_nBut for adults, raking season can be a pain! Let’s be real, there are so many things I’d rather do than sweep up a pile of fallen leaves, especially since they convey a stark reminder that winter is around the corner. And the truth is, I don’t have the best technique – watching me rake leaves is akin to watching some toddlers try to dance in step. (Let’s just say there’s a distinct lack of coordination.) In my experience, the wrong leaf raking method always leads to muscle and joint pain. Bummer. …

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Cold Weather Comfort: How to Reduce Allergy Triggers

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This post was sponsored by the makers of REACTINE®. All opinions are true and are my own.

Oh, you thought we were done talking about allergies? I wish! The truth is, even though we’re all familiar with the term “seasonal allergies”, a large percentage of Canadians (myself included!) are affected by allergy triggers all. year. round.

(That’s four seasons of seasonal allergies, for those keeping tabs.)

With the cold weather approaching, it simply means a switch from one trigger to another. A great big pile of old, mold-prone leaves, anyone? A-choo!
15034728_164065140725007_7501481220815978496_nThe good news: there are things you can do to limit your exposure to allergens. During winter months, we tend to stay indoors more, so mold, dust mites, and pet-related allergies are the main trigger of allergy symptoms. REACTINE® has amazing resources on their website, including a list of ways to Reduce Allergens in Your Home. Today, I’m happy to share some of the techniques that have worked for me! …

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Now THIS is a #nextlevel Opportunity!

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The most *amazing* contest is happening right now – and I have to share the details!

But first, a little background. Earlier this year, I shared that Max Domi, professional hockey player (and son of the infamous Tie Domi) was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12. By opening up about his personal experiences with diabetes, Max hopes he will inspire Canadians to visit poweredbyaccuracy.ca to learn more about diabetes.
maxresdefaultEssentially, the CONTOUR® NEXT Powered by Accuracy website offers a support system for people living with diabetes, helping them to take their management of the disease to the #nextlevel.

Well, in partnership with CONTOUR NEXT, Max is offering Canadians a chance to participate in the Powered By Accuracy 16 Reasons Contest. Listen up friends, because it’s a good one! …

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A Pantry-Inspired Refrigerator? Now that’s Smart!

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Moms are masters of their domain.

We know how to stretch a dollar and roll with the punches. We can carpool six children and feed a party of twenty. We have eyes at the back of our heads and a sixth sense for when our kids are up to something, well, shifty.

We know how to organize a refrigerator… just kidding! We don’t. We have no idea how to organize a refrigerator.

Mom truth: if you have offspring under the age of 25 who are currently living in your household, your fridge is likely crammed with a variety of delicious foods (and some forgotten leftovers). There is no rhyme or reason as to how the food is stored… which ultimately leads to a decrease in overall storage space. But let’s face it: conventional refrigerators don’t allow for creative storage options. Until now.

Introducing the Whirlpool® Smart French Door Refrigerator.  

Completely and intuitively re-imagined on the inside, the pantry-inspired layout in the Whirlpool Smart French Door Refrigerator is designed to use space more efficiently with a unique shelving system for families to fit and find all their edible favorites, making it the easiest refrigerator to organize1.wp_232-2(If you just uttered Sweet Moses that is an incredible fridge… you wouldn’t be alone.) …

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