contest

The Promenade: Go on A Shopping Spree… With Me!

October 9, 2013 By Lena

For all my readers who’ve ever jokingly (or not-so-jokingly) asked, “Take me shopping with you!” or “Can you be my personal shopper?”… it’s your lucky day!

I’ve teamed up with The Promenade once again, and this time, we’re hosting an ah-maz-ing contest – and if you live in the Greater Toronto Area, you simply must enter.

It’s the Style the Season contest! One lucky winner will receive a $500.00 Cadillac Fairview shop! card gift card; a one-on-one shopping session with Lena Almeida from Listen to Lena (that’s me!); a complimentary hair cut, style and makeup application at a participating salon; and dinner at Pickle Barrel with one (1) guest on Sunday, October 27th, 2013 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Whew! Sounds like a fabulous way to spend a Sunday afternoon – wouldn’t you agree?

And even if you don’t win, there’s still an awesome reason to visit The Promenade on October 27th: from 1:00pm to 3:00pm you can attend the “Style the Season” event in their Centre Court. In addition to sitting in on a free style session by yours truly, you can also enjoy samples, fashion and beauty demos and enter to win a $100.00 Cadillac Fairview shop! card gift card.

(Plus, a few hot men known as the Vaughan Fire Fighters will be there to sign their 2014 calendar. Just sayin’.)

Reid and Ariel… United At Last!

September 7, 2013 By Lena

It’s been a while since I chatted about my little guy’s obsession with Ariel from The Little Mermaid. In truth, at one time, it was all “Ariel this” and “Ariel that”, but recently, he’s been otherwise distracted. Which is actually a good thing, because it’s allowed the months to fly by in anticipation of October 1st, when Disney’s The Little Mermaid: Diamond Edition will splash into homes for the very first time in Blu-ray Hi Def.

And we can’t wait to get our hands on the movie! Bonus features include an All-New Music Video, Part of Her World: Jodi Benson’s Voyage To New Fantasyland, Deleted Characters and more. Translation: Reid will soon be reunited with his lady love! That’s almost as exciting as finding a “banded, bulbous snarfblatt” :)

Last month, you may have noticed that I chatted about programming on Disney Junior. Well, I’m proud to announce that I’ve joined the #DisneyJuniorMom program for the remainder of 2013. It’s a great group of bloggers and made total sense for me as: a) my boys are Disney fanatics, and b) we love a good cartoon or two (or ten).

Of course, it’s even more wonderful that my very first communication is centered around the The Little Mermaid – here’s some amazing news for fans of all ages!

First, in anticipation of the Blu-ray Hi Def release, Disney Junior is giving a lucky viewer the chance to win a round-trip to Toronto to experience Canada’s Private Red Carpet Screening of The Little Mermaid, complete with an Under the Sea Adventure experience at the TIFF Bell Lightbox for the little one before the show. Can I get a “Whoa… Dinglehopper!”

The winning family will be flown to Toronto to enjoy the event, along with a 2-night hotel stay, transportation and $1,000 in spending money. Plus, children will receive a special gift as well. Click here for the grand prize details.

So, the truth is, I’ve kind of been entering every day. Fingers and toes are crossed! And if the contest isn’t your cup of tea, I won’t be mad if you enter every day, happen to win, and then defer your prize to me. Oops! Did I just suggest that out loud?

Okay, so my second tidbit of Mermaid news is just as awesome for little ones – the series is coming back exclusively to Disney Junior, weekdays at 8pm ET starting Monday, September 16th! OMG. The Little Mermaid on demand? I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Other news for Disney Junior:

The Doc is in, with new episodes of Doc McStuffins premiering Sundays at 11am ET, starting September 15th.
Justin and his imaginary pals, Olive and Squidgy, are back in the second season of Justin Time premiering Sundays at 8:30am ET, starting September 8th.

Well friends, it looks like the fall season is off to a fabulous start!

I’m part of the Disney Junior Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group.
The opinions on this blog are my own.

Who’s Afraid of a Little Colour?

June 25, 2013 By Lena

If there’s one thing I’m frequently complimented on, it’s the fact that I like to take chances and wear bright colours. Never one to be afraid of standing out, I love the fiery burst of energy when I wear orange; the spunky feeling of pop-pretty pink, the crispness of green apple, and the moodiness of a vibrant purple. In short, colour defines both my fashion sense – and my outlook!

Alas, I was not destined to pass on my keen eye for colour to a little fashionista – instead, I’ve been blessed with two boys who adore living out loud and wearing clothes to match. However, I’ll let you in on a little secret.

In the past, I’ve been hesitant to purchase brightly coloured clothing for my kids for one main reason: children’s clothing is washed A LOT, and this leads to faded, washed-out looking clothes. And one of my biggest pet peeves is a red that starts to look cranberry, or a purple that errs to the side of lavender. Often, the clothes would lose their vibrancy after just one wash, making me wonder if an all-beige wardrobe really was the way to go.

That is, until I discovered Clorox2 Stain Fighter and Colour Booster Liquid. Clorox2 Stain Fighter & Colour Booster is specifically formulated to work better on tough stains and keep your clothes bright. The liquid is specially formulated to lift stains and contains brighteners to give colours a boost. It is designed to be safe for all loads – so you can add it to every load with your detergent for cleaner and brighter clothes.

So there are two things I’d love to underscore here. First, go on! Let your kids get dirty. Let them go on a Stain Adventure; let them spill juice, eat food with their hands, and play in the wet grass. Clorox2 Stain Fighter & Colour Booster Liquid is better at removing tough stains vs. the leading detergent alone.

Second, don’t be afraid of a little colour. Because while Clorox2 is working to lift those adventurous stains, it’s also brightening your colours and making them more vibrant, freshened, and newer-looking.

After the first few uses with Clorox2 Stain Fighter & Colour Booster Liquid, I couldn’t believe the difference it made in the overall look and feel of my sons’ clothing. Wash after wash, the items resisted fading and kept their intensity – even clothes with patterns, pictures and mixed textures. I honestly feel a little foolish that I didn’t try it sooner; I could have salvaged so many of their favourite items that I’ve now set aside as “home clothes”. Still, that’s my job as the Stain Master Mom – to tell you all about this amazing product, so you too can experience the difference for yourself!…

Live Life… Go on a Stain Adventure… and WIN!

May 27, 2013 By Lena

What if I told you that the next time your darling child:

1) Face plants in a bowl of spaghetti
2) Uses mustard, ketchup and relish… as paint
2) Decides that a dirt bath is infinitely more fun than a regular bath

… you should stop everything, take a picture and laugh it off? (You may not agree to the whole “laugh it off” thing.)

BUT – what if I encouraged you to specifically embark on a Stain Adventure – that is, throw caution to the wind and get dirty? Would you do it?

Answer: You would if you had Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products in your laundry room. And you would if you knew you had a chance to win $3,000!

One of the best things about being the Clorox2 #StainMasterMom is the knowledge that I can live life to the fullest – without worrying about getting a little messy. Because the products are specially formulated to lift stains and contain brighteners to give colours a boost – in fact, they complement your favourite detergent to make it work even better. And, they’re safe for all loads.

(Clorox2 in EVERY load? YES! You heard it here first!)

So, how can you participate in your own Stain Adventure? It’s easy. First, make sure you stock up on Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products – trust me, you can certainly attempt these stains at home, but you’ll want to make sure you have the power of Clorox2 before the stains set!

Next, choose an adventure on the Clorox2 Stain Adventures Facebook tab. You can…

HAVE A DATE WITH CHOCOLATE
SPORTS SEASON
EAT WITHOUT UTENSILS… OR PLATES
JOIN YOUR KIDS FOR SOME FINGER PAINTING
GET TO KNOW YOUR CAR A LITTLE BETTER
THROW A PIZZA PARTY
GO PUDDLE JUMPING
HELP THE EASTER BUNNY DECORATE
BAKE A CAKE
DIY HOME DÉCOR

I spent part of the morning checking out the entries, and some of them are hilarious. Talk about adventurous stains!

Finally, complete the online Contest Entry Form, upload your picture and add a short description. And that’s it! There are twelve (12) prizes available to be won at the outset of this Contest – one (1) Grand Prize, ten (10) Secondary Prizes and one (1) Bonus Prize….

So Easy.. So Juicy… So, Do You Want to Win $2,000?

April 23, 2013 By Lena

Years ago, a recipe for a Seven Layer Mexican Dip fell into my hot little hands.

Sweet! One of the most delicious dips known to mankind, and now I could make it all on my own. I scanned the recipe, excited for my next informal shindig, where I was certain it would be a crowd pleaser. As I looked through the directions, I noticed an asterisk at the very end:

*Be sure to use Maggi Chili Sauce. It’s the best tasting sauce out there, great for this recipe.

Hmm. Since I was not familiar with Maggi products, I decided to go on and give it a try. And I concurred; it really was the best chili sauce I had ever had. Not too spicy, and with just the right twang, the appetizer went on to be a hit (of course I knew it would) and I became a fan of Maggi Taste of Asia Chili Sauce for life.

Since then, I’ve enjoyed several Maggi products, including their Vegetable Soup Mix, Premium Oyster Sauce and Season Up! Spices.

And now… Maggi introduces their NEW So Juicy!

So Juicy is a whole new way of cooking that creates delicious, juicy chicken every time – no mess and no stress! It includes the special “Flavour Lock” cooking bag that seals in the flavour and lets chicken simmer in its own juice.

That’s all! Minimal preparation and cleanup, and maximum flavour. I’ll admit that I’m normally hesitant to put plastic in the oven, but something tells me that Maggi has this down to a science. Has anyone tried Maggi So Juicy? I’d love to hear your feedback. So Juicy is available in Mixed Herbs, Garlic and Rotisserie seasonings.

Well, now that we’ve made it so easy…. with So Juicy… so, how would you like to win $2,000?…

Spend an Evening with Oprah!

March 27, 2013 By Lena

Last week, I received an invitation from Sleep Country Canada which had me whooping for joy.

“On Saturday April 13, 2013, Oprah Winfrey is coming to Copps Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario and I am hoping you will be able to join me as a VIP guest at the event in appreciation for all your support of Sleep Country over the past years. Sleep Country is the title sponsor of the Event and it would be great to have you there too.

Your ticket includes backstage VIP access before the event to personally meet Oprah with me and have your picture taken with her, plus a front row seat to “An Evening with Oprah”.”

ZOMG!!!

Okay, for those of you who aren’t aware, April 13th is my 35th birthday. I am spending my 35th birthday hanging out with Oprah backstage. Am I dreaming?? What do I say? What do I wear?

Before I lapse into full-on gushing mode, YOU TOO can join me… Sleep Country Canada has a smashing contest going on right now! There is one (1) grand prize available to be won, consisting of two (2) VIP tickets to a private “meet and greet” with Oprah in Hamilton on April 13, 2013; two (2) front row tickets to An Evening with Oprah; one Tempur-Pedic Cloud Supreme Breeze queen mattress set, and a $1,500 CDN cheque to cover travel and accommodation (Approximate Retail Value: $7,385 CDN).

Second Prizes: There are two (2) second place prizes available to be won, each consisting of two (2) VIP tickets to a private “meet and greet” with Oprah, two (2) front row tickets to An Evening with Oprah and a $1,500 cheque to cover travel and accommodation (Approximate Retail Value: $3,500 CDN each).

Third Prizes: There are forty (40) third place prizes available to be won, each consisting of two (2) lower bowl tickets to An Evening with Oprah in Hamilton, Ontario on April 13, 2013, with an Approximate Retail Value of $500 CDN each.

The contest runs until April 4th. What are you waiting for? Come hang with Oprah, Christine Magee and the ol’ Birthday Girl next month! Click here to Spend an Evening with Oprah.

Loaded Bruschetta Bagels

August 14, 2012 By Lena

Friends, I’ve fallen off the wagon.

A once staunch anti-carb activist, I banned scrumptious foods like bagels, breadsticks, potatoes and pastries from my diet. For the most part, I survived… but I was just a shell of my former self. Barely recognizable; I was moody, depressed, and flat out craving the sweet comfort of delicious, soft, chewy bread.

And with just one bite of a Dempster’s Everything Bagel, lightly buttered and oh-so satisfying… I was off the wagon for good. I shall no longer deny myself the luxury of a dense, flavourful bagel! (I’m much happier now. Truly, I’m eating a toasted bagel as I type this. Sooo good.)

Hence, when the husband and I were craving an impromptu late afternoon snack yesterday, I decided to improvise with a few simple ingredients I had on hand – and created my soon-to-be-famous Loaded Bruschetta Bagels.

Honestly, this tasty appetizer doesn’t even require a recipe. Just grab a few staples –

Dempster’s Original Bagels, a clove of garlic, two Roma tomatoes (seeded and diced), 1 teaspoon fresh basil (finely chopped), a tablespoon of olive oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Oh, and I finish with a fine grating of Parmesan cheese.

Mix the diced tomato with the basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper. Set aside. Lightly toast one bagel – if you’ve got a super fancy KitchenAid toaster like I do, even better (thanks Dempster’s!)….

Canadian Lentils: Q&A with Chef Michael Smith!

June 18, 2012 By Lena

Congratulations to the winner of the Love Your Lentils contest – so lucky! How AWESOME will it be to spend two whole days with Chef Michael Smith in PEI?

Now even though the contest is over, fear not – you can still get your lentils fix from www.lentils.ca. It’s the official Canadian lentils website, and you’ll find a ton of great information, nutrition facts, recipes etc. And be sure to check out the “Cooking with Chef Michael Smith” section – here you’ll find some of Michael’s favourite recipes, how to make a simple lentil puree and the wide variety of dishes that it can be sneaked into, an overview of lentil types, nutritional characteristics, cooking tips, dried vs. canned – and more.

Speaking of, I had the amazing opportunity to interview Chef Smith! Here’s our Q&A!

Love your Lentils
Lena Almeida Q&A with Chef Michael Smith

Q: Yellow, red, green and black – there are so many types of lentils! For those new to the legume, which kind would you recommend starting with, and why?

A: All lentils are easy to cook with but I recommend green lentils because they are the most commonly found.

Q: Canned or dry, which lentils to you prefer to cook with?

A: I prefer dry lentils mainly because they are so easy to cook.

Q: One popular trick parents often employ is to “hide” healthy foods. What’s your favourite way to hide lentils?

A: I can’t decide whether I prefer my Sneaky Lentil Biscuits or my Sneaky Lentil Tomato Meat Sauce for pasta or lasagna.

Q: You only have room in your shopping cart for dried lentils and four (4) other ingredients. What do you include for an east and tasty meal?

A: Try 2 onions browned in 2 Tbsp butter with 1 tsp nutmeg for flavour then topped with a can of drained rinsed lentils and an entire pound of baby spinach wilted in, awesome!

Q: Dessert time! How would you incorporate lentils – which are often used in savoury dishes – in a sweet treat?

A: Check out my Chocolate Chip cookies!

Hope you enjoyed my little interview :) Don’t forget I’m giving away TWO of Chef Michael Smith’s Kitchen cookbooks! Giveaway ends July 6th – good luck everyone!

This post is sponsored by Canadian Lentils. The opinions on this blog are my own. And, I happen to #LoveLentils.

I’m Not Quite Finished Talking about Lentils…

May 26, 2012 By Lena

… because honestly, there are things I simply MUST share with you.

In my last post Love Your Lentils! (Why? Because They’re Delish!) I revealed many reasons why I’m in love with the tiny legumes – including their taste, versatility, and of course, nutritional profile. (Just 100 grams of green lentils packs in a whole day’s worth of the fibre and 50% of your daily iron needs. #yesplease)

Today, I’m back to share 10 eyebrow-raising facts about Canadian Lentils. Trust me, you totally didn’t see this one coming.

Facts on Canadian Lentils

1. There are 8.5 grams of fibre and 7 grams of protein in just half a cup of cooked Canadian lentils.
2. Canadian Lentils are an excellent source of folate and iron, and a good source of selenium and zinc.
3. The most common types of lentils grown in Canada are green and red. Also grown in Canada are black Beluga and French Green or Du Puy lentils.
4. Canada produces 67 per cent of the world’s lentil supply. (!!!)
5. In 2011, over 2.55 million acres of lentils were planted in Canada by over 5,000 lentil growers.
6. Canada is the world’s leading exporter of lentils, exporting a total value of $872,956,572 in lentils in 2011.
7. Canada only begun growing lentils in 1970, meaning it is a relatively new crop to Canada.
8. Saskatchewan is the largest lentil growing province, accounting for 95 per cent of total Canadian production.
9. India is the biggest importer of Canadian lentils.
10. Lentil growing originated from the wild lentils that still grow in Turkey and other Middle Eastern countries.

Okay, raise your hand if you previously knew that Canada produces 2/3 of the world’s lentils. Like WTH?! How is it possible that we’ve been quietly farming and exporting these nutrient-packed flavour bubbles – to the tune of over $872 million annually – without some great fan fare or hoopla?

Time to change that….

Read More

Love Your Lentils! (Why? Because They’re Delish!)

May 18, 2012 By Lena

Okay, I’m fully aware that lentils aren’t the most sexy topic of conversation. And, that I could spend an equal amount of effort saying “Love Your Body!” or “Love Your Life!” or “Love Ryan Gosling!” … but the truth is, you should love your lentils. In fact, they’re what top chefs and epicureans refer to as a “Hidden Healthy Superstar”.

Did You Know?

Just 100 grams of green lentils packs in a whole day’s worth of the fibre, 50% of your daily iron needs and have more potassium than a large banana.

Out of all plant-based foods, lentils contain the most folate.

Their exceptionally low glycemic index (low GI) values and resistant starch content make them suitable for a diabetic diet.

Lentils are naturally gluten-free, making them a delicious staple in a gluten-free kitchen.

They are high in complex carbohydrates, while low in fat and calories.

And… they’re delish! A staple in so many Middle Eastern, Indian and Mediterranean cuisines, lentils are progressively making a transition from side dish to star attraction. But don’t take my word for it – Chef Michael Smith, one of Canada’s most celebrated chefs (The Inn Chef, Chef at Home, Chef at Large and Chef Abroad) wants you to #LoveLentils too – and you can win BIG!…

Make Your Home and Garden Even Better Sweepstakes!

May 5, 2012 By Lena

A few months ago, a friend on Facebook – who also happens to be a Mortgage Specialist and a well-respected Financial Expert – posted the following status update:

Well, being from Mississauga, and always having a keen interest in what’s going on in the Canadian Real Estate Market, I checked out her recommendation and landed on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Canada’s page. I was quite tickled pink to see that in addition to providing a plethora of real estate services (buying and selling, moving, closing, etc) they also offer design and decor advice, remodeling and landscaping tips, and examples of how to live green. In essence, they embody the brand whose namesake has personified a passion for the home since 1924. (Who hasn’t reached for a Better Homes and Gardens magazine while looking for decor or DIY inspiration?)

Anyhoo, I’ve been cruising their Facebook page for a few days now and I’ve found a nice mix of style tips, recipes, deck and patio inspiration… and more. Another reason to “Like” their page? Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Canada is launching the Make Your Home and Garden Even Better Sweepstakes! BHGREC is giving away a new iPhone 4S and 10 individual Home Depot Gift Cards worth $50 each!

In order to participate in the sweepstakes, you’ll need to sign up through the Facebook App. The Contest is available to Canadians only on Facebook from May 8th to May 30th (ends at 11:59pm).

Good luck everybody! After you’ve entered, check out this article from BHG Real Estate Canada’s website for Green Space: Great Tips For A Perfect Lawn. I’ve already sent it to my husband, who is always on the quest for the perfect golf green!

This post was sponsored by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Canada. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Zellers Memory Showcase: Locked Away (Sponsored Video)

April 30, 2012 By Lena

There’s no use denying it – Zellers is leaving us. In just a few short months, the stores will be gutted and re-branded to a “huge American retailer that shall remain nameless”… oh sod it, Target is coming to Canada (as if you don’t already know).

A few weeks ago, I shared the Zellers Memory Showcase Facebook tab. Simply submit a fond memory at Zellers, and if it’s one of the lucky anecdotes brought to life EMD-style, you’ll also receive a $250 Zellers gift card.

Here’s just one of the hilarious videos from the re-enactment gallery – who hasn’t trembled at the thought of being locked in a changing room? (Though girlfriend in the video is ug-ly… probably best to have left her in.)

Don’t forget to check out the other videos featured on the tab – they’re quite the chuckle. And while you’re there, be sure to grab the coupon for $10 off $40 or more on Women’s, Men’s and Kid’s apparel, sleepwear and accessories!

Zellers, it’s been real. Thanks for the many memories!

This post is sponsored by Zellers. All opinions are my own.

Win $250 from Zellers! (Sponsored Video)

March 22, 2012 By Lena

Thought the HIGH-larious videos from Zellers were over? Nope! And I, for one, am happy to see the chuckles roll on!

Once again, rather than avoid the subject, the company is actively participating in its transition by reaching out to customers via social media. This time, the Executive Managing Director of Zellers is back, and he’s reenacting Canada’s fondest, funniest and most fantastic Zellers memories.

I too have a fond Zellers memory: about two years ago, while attending my first (and last) “Moonlight Madness“, a little boy came up to me and tugged on the sleeve of my jacket. Glancing down, I put on my most pleasant face and said “Hello!” in a sing-song voice. He leaned in really close and said “These people are cra-zy” and did the twirly thing with his finger around the side of his head. I laughed, but when I looked around, realized that we truly were surrounded by crazies; people piling their carts full of pillows, grabbing canned peas like we were in a war-torn country, and elbowing each other for under-the-bed organizers. (One lady had eight – how many beds could she possibly have?) I had a good giggle with this strange 6 year old and remembered to stay far away from shopaholic shame.

Do you have a fond memory involving Zellers? Share your story in the Zellers Memory Showcase tab on their Facebook page. If it’s one of the lucky anecdotes brought to life EMD-style, you’ll also receive a $250 Zellers gift card!

Good luck – and while you’re there, be sure to grab the coupon for $10 off $40 or more on Women’s, Men’s and Kid’s apparel, sleepwear and accessories!

Dempsters $10,000 White Bread Taste-Off

March 8, 2012 By Lena

To adequately appreciate the tone of this post, I’d like you all to hum Lionel Riche’s “Hello” in your heads.

(Hello! Is it me you’re looking for?…)

Alas, no other tune fits the bill when describing my relationship with white bread. I MISS white bread.

Long considered the more delicious alternative, in recent years it has received a bad rap from the health- and carb-conscious. In fact, I’ve actually been on the receiving end of a nasty glare while reaching for white bread at the supermarket. Apparently I failed to yield in front the grain police; the woman continued to stare as she loaded up her cart with 12 Grains, Whole Grains, Multigrain, etc, etc. (I’m thinking she was more of an Ancient Grains kind of gal, but I digress.)

The fact is, I realize that whole grains are a healthier alternative. But some things just taste better with white bread. French toast. Croutons. Stuffing. Grilled cheese. Oh my! It is irreplaceable as an ingredient in preparing some of my most beloved comfort foods. And you simply CANNOT create culinary blasphemy by having a whole grain grilled cheese. Or maybe you can – mine will just taste much, much more divine.

The good news? Dempster’s White Bread is made with enriched wheat flour, and the taste and texture is loved by families across Canada (including my own). Given the choice, my husband would only buy Dempster’s White Bread – he’s a huge fan of PB&J, and according to him, PB&J is definitely a while bread thing. And while I tend to agree, I limit my intake – I am generally guilted into consuming whole grains most of the time (still humming Hello? … I want to tell you so much… I love you)….

LEGO DUPLO: 30 Days of Play Challenge!

February 27, 2012 By Lena

Now THIS is going to be a blast.

Some of the greatest perks of being a blogger is working with fabulous women who engage moms (Mom Central Canada), working with brands whom I trust and have trusted for eons (LEGO DUPLO), and participating in blog tours that are fun and help foster creativity with my little ones.

Oh, and when the swag makes their little jaws drop to the floor. (Thanks LEGO!)

Now before you get all “pshaw, that’s SO great for you” – there is DEFINITELY something in it for you too. Here’s what you need to know:

LEGO DUPLO has partnered with Today’s Parent for one of their LARGEST and MOST EXCITING campaigns ever. Each day, from February 27th through April 10th, LEGO DUPLO will be sharing one new way to play. Canadian moms: just check the Today’s Parent website each weekday to see a new “play challenge” that you can tackle with your little ones.

The awesome part: Moms will also be able to submit their own “play challenge” for the chance to win a trip for four to LEGOLAND Parks (Florida or California) and have their play idea featured in the calendar! The last five days of the 30 Days of Play Challenge will feature mom-generated ideas – it could be one of yours!

So if you’ve got some DUPLO on hand (chances are you do), have a few minutes to get creative with your children (which is much for fun than doing the dishes anyways), then submit your idea for a chance to win the ultimate family getaway! I’ll be participating in the challenges on frequent basis, but as the boys are still quite young, let’s just say that their creations will be a loose interpretation of the challenge, and will most likely require a little help from me :)…

Urban Barn: Enter the Ultimate Dinner Party Contest

November 9, 2011 By Lena

I’ve been spending the last week pushing around furniture in an effort to finalize #ProjectLivingRoom.

You may be wondering: “What does #ProjectLivingRoom have to do with Urban Barn?”

To which I say: smarten up and read my blog from time to time!

All joking aside (I wasn’t joking) I’ve been extremely fortunate to have a brand new living room courtesy of my friends at Urban Barn. It really, REALLY rocks. The only thing stopping me from taking pictures and plastering them all over this site is the fact that I’ve got a few last minutes touches to take care of, and A-type personalities like me generally like things to be perfect.

(Booo, I know. Patience, friends!)…

Win a $10,000 Dream Canadian Vacation!

October 31, 2011 By Lena

VACATION.

va·ca·tion/ vāˈkāSHən/

SPRING 2007, THE LAST TIME
I WAS WINE TASTING IN NOTL

Noun: An extended period of recreation, esp. one spent away from home or in traveling.

I totally had to look that one up, because it’s been over four (4!) years since my last one. (Something about two pregnancies and two little boys have thrown a monkey wrench in my plans.) And the thing is, I’m not looking to jet-set across the globe; wine tasting, sightseeing and high tea in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON would hit the spot nicely.

Very nicely, indeed.

Well, I’m one step closer to realizing my dreams of the ultimate Canadian Vacation – I’ve entered CentrSource’s DREAM BIG CANADA contest!

Besides the Grand Prize of a $10,000 Canada Vacation Voucher (!!!), there are eight (8) weekly secondary prizes of $500 gift cards to be won. The best part? Even if you win a secondary prize, you are still eligible to win the grand prize as well! Now THAT would be awesomesauce….

2nd Annual ShesConnected Conference in TO

August 24, 2011 By Lena

As mentioned in an earlier post, I recently joined ShesConnected as a Community Manager. I’ve been helping to plan their conference (including being privy to all the juicy shoe party details!), liaising with the awesome sponsors (woot!) and tweeting all day long – you can catch me on their two Twitter streams – @shesconnected and @SCConference.

And if you do follow my tweets, you’ll see that there’s an enormous amount of buzz surrounding the conference, especially among Digital Women in Canada.

“The ShesConnected Conference is different than the typical conference. Women attending this event want to work with brands and are chosen based on their social reach, power of voice, and influence as well as requirements from the brands attending. This year we are pleased to be choosing 200 women, which has doubled from last year. If you’re selected, you’ll get to connect with top-tier brands and digital women over this two-day event.

The best part? You get to attend for FREE because the brands pay your conference fee!”

It’s a blogger’s dream – meeting up with peers, connecting with brands and learning from experts, all in a fun setting in downtown TO! For more information on the conference (September 29/30 at the Sheraton TO) please click here.

Just about all the conference invitations have been handed out, but if you’re a blogger – or someone who is very active across other social media platforms, like Twitter or Facebook – you can enter to WIN a ticket with me!

Simply click on over to this entry form and be sure to let us know why you want to come along. (Don’t you just love my Bobblehead? Nice boots!)

Good luck!

Rexall: Win 1 of 3 $50 Gift Cards!

August 21, 2011 By Lena

*NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.*

I hope you’ve had a chance to read my review of Rexall’s New Healthy Living Store. If not, take a moment to discover all the new, enhanced in-store services offered, and tell us which one is your favourite – and why. Then, leave a comment on the review post with your answer, and you’ll have the chance to win one of three $50 Rexall gift cards! Good luck everybody!

Giveaway ends Saturday, September 10th.