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Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

household products

A Cleaner Dishwasher? Now THAT’s Affresh!

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Have you been lucky enough to come across a product you just can’t live without? You know, one that totally changes your life, and you can’t believe it took so long for you to discover it?

That’s exactly how I feel about affresh Washer Cleaner. And, if you’re one of the thousands of Canadians who have Googled “how to get rid of sewer smell in front load washing machine”, chances are it’s your miracle product, too.

And now, I’m over the moon about affresh Dishwasher Cleaner! I had started to suspect that my dishwasher was under-performing; my stemware was slightly filmy, my plates and bowls were often not clean enough.

(Not to mention, but I will anyways, a musty odor. No one wants to eat off dishes that came from a funky washer, am I right?)

I fiddled with the rinse agent and even poked around the dishwasher to see if there was a problem, when all of a sudden, the heavens parted and I realized my dishwasher likely just needed a good cleaning. Of course! I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of it sooner – it was pretty gnarly in there! And since I consider affresh Washer Cleaner my personal salvation, you know I couldn’t wait to get my hands on affresh Dishwater Cleaner.
DSC_0185bThe promise: affresh Dishwater Cleaner powers away hard water and mineral deposits to keep your dishwasher working its best.

The outcome: Heck yes! If you’re just about to begin your spring cleaning, you’ll want to add this product to your shopping list. Promise. And don’t worry – if you’re feeling mildly alarmed that you’ve never cleaned your dishwasher before, you’re not alone: while cleaning inside your appliances is an important step to keep them working their best, only 25% of Canadians have cleaned inside their dishwashers in the last 12 months. …

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The Scents of Happiness: Holiday Memories

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Last year, I spent a little too much time trying to get things just right.

“How long are you going to spend on that mantle?” my husband asked.
“Until it is right,” I replied tersely.
“What does that mean?”
DSC_0241 (1)To tell the truth, even I wasn’t sure. But growing up, my mom’s Christmas decorations were always perfect, year after year. I marvel at the way she was consistently able to recreate the same holiday feel; shiny foil buntings, hanging from the entranceway. A tree expertly trimmed with tinsel and decorated with ornaments. Lights and streamers adorning every available surface. The scent of clean floors and crisp white linen. …

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ROAR Into Spring with #RoyaleTigerTowel!

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After a long – okay, extra long – cold, unforgiving winter, there are just some things that *must* be done:

1) Ladies, whip out your Schick razor. You know what to do with it.
2) Is it safe to take the winter tires off yet? Somehow, I am not confident we’re in the clear just yet.
3) The patio set and barbecue. Locate them, and keep them on standby.
4) Grab your favourite cleaning solutions and supplies. It’s time for a good spring cleaning!

Will you be partaking in a little scrub-and-shine fest this season? I’m pleased to report that my spring cleaning is underway, and this year, I’m on the prowl for a soft, strong and thirsty multipurpose paper towel. Introducing Royale Tiger Towel! Using the latest in Thru-Air Dried (TAD) technology, Royale Tiger Towel delivers a soft, strong and more absorbent paper towel. Dye and fragrance-free, Tiger Towel was launched in handy half sheets to accommodate both small and large clean-ups and come with an absorbency guarantee so Canadians can be confident they will do the job every time.

Prowling the shelves of retailers across the country, Royale has also partnered with Pathera, the world’s leading wild cat conservation organization, which works in partnership with Save the Tiger Fund to conserve the world’s remaining 3,200 wild tigers. As a proud partner, Royale will donate $40,000 to the fund as well as provide ongoing support to raise awareness and increase fundraising efforts throughout 2014.

So, want to learn how you can ROAR into Spring?  Join the #RoyaleTigerTowel Twitter Party!

We’ll chat about your favourite ways to get prepared for the warmer months ahead, and how Royale Tiger Towel can assist with your spring cleaning efforts. Of course, we’ll have some terrific prizes up for grabs – including a ONE YEAR supply of Royale Tiger Towel for the Grand Prize winner!

(Tip: You could win a $15,000 Kitchen Makeover with Royale Tiger Towel – plus 70 daily prizes! Enter here.)

RSVP below for a chance to win, and see you on Wednesday night! …

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WIN IT! Kitchen Stuff Plus #Giveaway

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NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

If you live in Ontario, chances are you’ve ventured into a Kitchen Stuff Plus! A leading discount retailer in housewares and home décor, KSP has been voted one of Toronto’s best places to shop again and again.

“We started our business in 1987 with the belief that customers deserve a value-added shopping experience that exceeds their expectations – every time they visit our stores. And we’ve achieved that by providing incredible savings (featuring everyday rock bottom prices), superior selection and exceptional service that few can match.”

From gadgets and gizmos to gorgeous home decor, it’s the perfect place to get everything you need under one roof. I have fond memories of stocking my entire home with KSP products. Often, I found must-haves at up to 70% off, and when you’re shopping on a budget, it’s a dream come true.

Don’t live in Ontario? Don’t worry! Kitchen Stuff Plus offers online shopping for customers across North America, with FREE shipping in Canada when you spend $75 or more. I’m partial to their clearance section (both in-store and online) – I always find a sweet little deal I just can’t resist, especially for home decor.

WIN IT! One lucky reader will win a $200 Kitchen Stuff Plus Gift Card! To enter, simply fill the form below with your qualifying entries. Good luck everybody – can’t wait to see what you all pick out!

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The Most Unappreciated Household Chore

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The most unappreciated household chore. Hands up if you think you know what it is. Dish washing? Dusting? Nope.

It’s laundry, of course.

According to a study conducted by Mail Online, the average mother spends five months of her life doing laundry. “It takes her 26 minutes to go through arduous pre- and post-wash tasks every time she turns on the machine, an average of six times a week. On top of that she can expect to spend 55 minutes a week doing the ironing. So, before her child hits 18, she will have had 137 days or nearly five months of toil.”

Ewwww….

Of course, those statistics are based on current technologies. Can you imagine how much time our ancestors spent getting their whites whiter? In fact, I’m pretty sure the evolution of laundry began with scores of women simply pounding clothes on river rocks or rubbing them with abrasive sands. Just think about THAT the next time you complain about separating your whites and darks.

However, with the introduction of the washboard, those same women were well on their way to the good life. See? The woman in this picture looks positively elated. No more clubbing her husband’s work clothes to remove soot and stains! Simply scrub-a-dub-dub on the old washboard.

Okay, let’s be honest. Unless you’re scrubbing your clothes on the washboard that is Ryan Gosling’s stomach, it’s going to feel like a chore. So thank goodness the very first drum-based washer was patented in 1851 – “James King, an American, patented the first washing machine to use a drum in 1851. The drum made King’s machine resemble a modern machine, albeit it was still hand powered. Later, in 1858, Hamilton Smith patented the rotary washing machine.”

But here’s where it gets great. In 1874 William Blackstone of Indiana “built a birthday present for his wife. It was a washing machine intended for domestic use which removed and washed away dirt from clothes. The Blackstone washing machine is often cited as the first washer designed for home use.”

Did you see that? A birthday present for his wife. Gee, what a guy! High five if you’re thrilled to be reading this blog post in 2013, and not in an era when it was okay to gift your wife with self-serving inventions.

(Oh, and in case you’re wondering, here’s my source for that little tidbit of info. Trust me, I’m not pulling this stuff out of my head. Especially not good ol’ William Blackstone.)

Thankfully, the arrival of electric power in the 1900’s meant that hand-operated washing devices could be augmented with motors. A washing machine called the Thor, which was invented by Alva J. Fisher and manufactured by the Hurley Machine Company in 1908, is often cited as the first drum-based electric washing machine.

(Pictured below: My dream laundry room. Yours too?) 


And that, my friends, is what paved the way for the modern, efficient and incredibly powerful washing machines we have on the market today. Of course, while our choice of brand/ machine makes a significant impact on the outcome of our clothing, so does our choice of detergent and stain fighters. And as the Clorox2 Stain Master Mom, I know a thing or two about keeping clothes clean. Clorox2 Stain Fighter & Colour Booster Liquid is an effective formula that removes dirt and stains, brightens colours and whitens whites. It can be used in both standard and HE (front loading) machines, and its new concentrated formula is better for the environment, too.

But don’t take my word for it – did you read the testimonials from the lucky readers who were offered a chance to review the complete line of Clorox2 products? Yep, we’ve got an all-out love affair happening; my readers adore Clorox2 that much.

In the meantime, tell me: do you agree that laundry is the most unappreciated household chore?

Clorox2: The Stain Solution

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Last week, I shared with y’all highlights from my much-anticipated Stain Party. We ate, we drank, we got messy.

Well, as you know, stains happen. Robin had a close encounter with chocolate sauce; Diana was a tad overzealous with ranch dressing, and Sara? Let’s just say she ended up wearing some of the nachos. But since it was a stain party, and I happened to have Clorox2 at my disposal, I did what any good hostess does; I whisked away my guests’ soiled clothing and pre-treated the stains directly with Clorox2 Stain Fighter and Colour Booster Liquid. The liquid works hard 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 what happens if you can’t take the shirt off your back – literally? Well, just be sure to pre-treat your stains at your first opportunity. Because the longer a stain lingers, the harder it is to get out. (Trust me, after having two little boys, I know this from experience.) Fortunately, I pre-treated the stains with Clorox2 before they had a chance to settle in, and since I’ve now had experience with the product and have learned to trust its stain lifting power, I had nothing but the highest expectations for the outcome.

I was not disappointed. Ladies and gentlemen, feast your eyes on these ULTRA BRIGHT, ULTRA VIVID, and most importantly, STAIN-FREE tank tops!



Now this may sound strange… and trust me, your eyes are not deceiving you… the colours of the tops are actually more intense after putting them through the wash. That’s because Clorox2 brighteners have been hard at work – giving colours a boost. And although these tops have only been washed once, I can attest that my boys’ summer clothing, which has been washed time after time (after time) over the past few months, is just as bright and vivid as when the season began. It’s quite impressive!…

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Who’s Afraid of a Few Stains? Not Us!

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The first rule of the Clorox2 Stain Party is you do not talk about the Clorox2 Stain Party. KIDDING!

Not only do you talk about it – you publish funny little photos like this. Sorry, @ShopwithRobin!


If there’s one thing I always aspire to do, it’s to put my money where my mouth is. You see, it’s not enough for me to simply stand behind a product; I have to ensure that my readers, friends and even skeptics are convinced of the virtues and benefits of the brands I endorse. Now y’all know that I am the Clorox2 Stain Master Mom… but did you know that I am so impressed by the product, I hosted my very own Stain Party – just to demo how awesome it is?

It’s true. I invited a few of my dearest social media friends (ones that live within 20 km of my house, to be precise) to come and enjoy a night of drinks on the patio. At first, I had fairly grand designs for the menu, but in the end, decided to keep it sweet and simple. After all, the purpose of the evening was simply to enjoy each other’s company, and you know, do my guests’ laundry at the end of the party. Just the normal stuff you do at a summer outing, right? Right….

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What Happens at a Stain Party…

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… obviously gets published on the Internet the next morning.

Last night, a few close friends and I had a messy night on the patio! Drinks, munchies and the freedom to kick back and enjoy ourselves, without worrying about life’s messes. Armed with Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products, we weren’t afraid of a little chocolate sauce – right, @ShopwithRobin?

In case you’re wondering, yes, I did actually hover and wait until someone made a mess…. and then I callously snapped a photo of them. But hey, Stains Happen!

Stay tuned for my complete wrap-up of our night, plus before/after photos of the washed clothing and Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products in action. I’ll also announce the ten (10) lucky Canadian readers who will have a chance to rate and review ALL the Clorox2 products! If you haven’t submitted your name yet – simply leave a comment on this post telling me which stains are a doozy to get out.

Until then… wishing you a summer filled with Stain Adventures!

A Party Isn’t a Party Until Someone Gets Dirty

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I’m not exactly sure how I’ll word the invitation on this one.

“Join me for a Stain Party! We’ll eat, drink, and stain ourselves silly!”

Er…. no. How about…

“It’s a girls night out-ish! Drinks on my patio. Let the chips and stains fall where they may!”

Huh. That’s closer, but no cigar. Okay, I think I’ve got it –

BOO-YAH.

If there’s one thing I always aspire to do, it’s to put my money where my mouth is. You see, it’s not enough for me to simply stand behind a product; I have to ensure that my readers, dear friends and even skeptics are convinced of the virtues and benefits of the brands I endorse. Now y’all know that I am the Clorox2 Stain Master Mom… but did you know that I am so impressed by the product, that I’m willing to get dirty on purpose… just to demo how awesome it really is? It’s true!

Of course, it wouldn’t be fun unless I got a few friends dirty too, right??…

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Who’s Afraid of a Little Colour?

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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!…

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Be a Stain Fighter! Clorox2 #Giveaway

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Being the Clorox2 Stain Master Mom has its perks. For one, I no longer fear uncapped markers. For two, I’ve readjusted my attitude on wearing brightly coloured shirts while eating strawberries. And finally, I’ve come to accept that while all stains are not created equal – all stains are equally treatable, as long as you have the power of Clorox2.

Now hands up if you’ve embarked on a Stain Adventure? You can win $3,000! Simply choose an adventure on the Clorox2 Stain Adventures Facebook tab, complete the online Contest Entry Form, upload your picture and add a short description. And that’s it! I’ve got a Stain Adventure lined up for this weekend – “eat without utensils”. Oh wait – that’s not Stain Adventure; that’s everyday life.

Of course, another perk of being the Stain Master Mom is sharing AMAZING giveaways like this one – you can enter to win a Clorox2 Prize Pack – including a $100 Visa Gift Card to refresh your laundry room! Of course, if I had enough money (and about 200 more square feet) my laundry room would look like THIS:

… but in the meantime, we’ll just have to settle for some extra spending money and a wealth of amazing Clorox2 products. In addition to the Visa Gift Card, one lucky reader will win:

Clorox2 Original Stain Fighter & Colour Booster Liquid (Qty: 2)

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 – add it to every load with your detergent for cleaner and brighter clothes. Clorox2 Original Stain Fighter & Colour Booster Liquid is better at removing tough stains vs. the leading detergent alone, including: Coffee – Red Wine – Berry Juice – Spaghetti Sauce – Mustard – Ball Point Ink – Make-up – Dirt…

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

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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….

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This Summer, Embark on a Stain Adventure with Me! I Am the Clorox2 Stain Master Mom!

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Friends, I’ve been keeping something under wraps that I’ve just been dying to shout from the rooftops. Yes, I am pretty darned excited about this. (Hint: See that logo on the left? My awesome news *may* have something to do with this awesome brand.)

One of the very best parts of being a blogger is partnering with brands that I trust – and use – almost obsessively. And so it’s no surprise that a lot of the chatter and brand positioning on my blog surrounds things I love to indulge in: fashion, family, decor, beauty and travel.

However, one thing I don’t normally talk about? Household chores. 

But, it happens. The floors get vacuumed, the shutters are dusted and there’s a never-ending pile of laundry that I like to refer to as the “bottomless pit”.

Ah, the laundry.

I mean, think about it: I have two boys. Two rambunctious, messy little boys. And I’ve spent more than my fair share of time hanging out by the washing machine, being the annihilator of stains – ice cream stains, grass stains, chocolate stains, spaghetti stains – you name it, I’ve taken them on. Often with a gusto that should be reserved for fighting world wars. (OUT damn stain!) In fact, I fondly remember the very first time Ryder came home from the playground covered in dirt; I nearly had a meltdown thinking that his expensive little outfit had been ruined. Can’t you just picture me shaking my head with disapproval as I yanked the grotty t-shirt over his head?

However, I’ve learned and grown so much since then – now, I look at stains as a challenge, and a sign of an adventurous life!

So, when Clorox asked me to take on the role as their Clorox2 Stain Master Mom, I simply couldn’t refuse.

Think I’ll be reviewing a bunch of products and calling it a day? Think again.

This summer, I’ll embark on Stain Adventures – simply put, it means living life to the fullest, without worrying about getting a little messy. I’ll host a Stain Party with my girlfriends, have an exclusive Rate & Review program for readers, and even a sweet giveaway or two! In short, you’ll want to tune in all summer to see how you too can be Stain Adventurous – armed with Clorox2 Stain Fighter Products, you’ll have stains… solved!

Yet… What IS Clorox2? Well, contrary to popular notion, it’s NOT bleach. It’s not even a detergent. But it IS a lineup of products specially formulated to lift stains and contains brighteners to give colours a boost. Translation: it complements your favourite detergent to make it work even better. And, it’s designed to be safe for all loads – so you can add it to every load for cleaner and brighter clothes. (Yes, it’s pretty awesome!)

In the meantime, be sure to visit Clorox2 Canada on Facebook, where you’ll find tons of fun chatter, exclusive savings and giveaways, plus your chance to win $3000 towards your own adventure! And, definitely follow my #StainMasterMom tweets on Twitter – you’ll get the inside scoop on giveaways, laundry tips, product reviews and more. It’s going to be a blast!

2013 HOT List: Hamilton Beach Must Haves

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The following post is brought to you by my love for all things Hamilton Beach. 

Sure, in some instances, I was sent the product for review – and other times, I’ve had the product for years. But the fact remains that my kitchen is crammed to capacity with these terribly innovative products that just happen to be affordable too.

Toaster Ovens. Hand Blenders. Waffle Makers and more… what’s not to love?

Hence, I thought it was only fitting to start the new year off right with a few of Hamilton Beach’s most loved small appliances. If you’re looking for a little help in the kitchen this year, here are my tried and true favourites from a brand you can trust.

Instant Hot Water Dispenser

This is one of those items that I didn’t know I needed until I actually started using it. Every day. Multiple times per day. Oh yeah.

Here’s the deal: with Ryder starting school this past September, we’ve all been sick… well, every freaking week. No lie; I swear I spend more time taking the boys’ temperature than checking my e-mail. And so I’ve spent the better part of the last three months making tea, liquid medicine concoctions, spiced cider… anything to make me feel like my head is not about to pop off. Normally, I’m the type to boil water on the stove, but when you’re indulging in hot beverages 4-5 times per day, it can get tedious – quickly. Enter the Instant Hot Water Dispenser.

Now I actually took a video of the dispenser in action, but even after adding my witty commentary, I realized there is just no way of hyping up a product that boils water (nor would I subject y’all to a 1:13 demonstration of said product). But nonetheless: with a quick boil function, adjustable water flow from 150 – 300 ml and smart safety features (the unit automatically turns off when water boils), this is THE product for tea drinkers or anyone who needs hot water in a hurry. The 1.8 L reservoir ensures that you’re not refilling the unit all day long, but is not so big that water remains dormant and stale over days. I also love that it has a convenient stop button which immediately cuts the flow of hot water when you’ve reached the desired amount – another safety feature that prevents overflowing and well, scalding. #ouch

If there’s one item you pick up during cold and flu season, make sure it’s the Instant Hot Water Dispenser!
…

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“Respect the Roll” with Cottonelle #Giveaway

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

If you had to think about some of the most disrespected household items, what would they be? Dust rags? Your old wet mop? Perhaps the front door mat which takes countless abuse?

Meh. They’re all treated like gold in comparison to the toilet paper roll. After all, toilet paper is only good for one thing… you know… yeah, not high on the totem pole, is it?

And tell me – how do you store your extra rolls? Ours are haphazardly shoved into a side cupboard of our bathroom vanity. Often, the boys get to them (grrrr) and we have a sea of toilet paper on the bathroom floor (grrrr). Disrespect? Heck ya.

And so Cottonelle created the “Respect the Roll” program to change people’s point of view on toilet paper with new ways and reasons to respect the roll. From holders for their toothbrushes to stylish containers for cotton swabs, many people take great care when it comes to the look and feel of their bathroom – except when it comes to their toilet paper. By enlisting Jonathan Adler – an innovative and chic interior designer – Cottonelle brought back the bathroom classic with a modern take to help people store their stash with flair.

I’ll admit – when I first heard about the “Respect the Roll” campaign, I giggled. Honestly, I’d never given much thought to toilet paper!!! But here’s the scoop: the Jonathan Adler covers are incredibly affordable (only $2 a pop!) and after placing them in my powder room, I’ve had so many guests comment on how “cute” and “funky” they are.

Respect!

“When it comes to good design, I believe functionality is key,” Adler says. “These roll covers are a great solution for keeping that extra roll of Cottonelle Clean Care handy and makes it easy to respect the roll that respects you.”…

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Hamilton Beach: 5 Gotta-Have Gizmos

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Some people would consider it an advertorial faux pas to put together a list of “must-have” items… all from the same manufacturer. In fact, I normally pride myself on mixing it up; incorporating great pieces from a variety of different brands. But to understand my reasoning behind dedicating an entire post to Hamilton Beach, I suppose you would have had to be there with me at last week’s media preview.

It happened, friends. That twitchy, tingly feeling at the tips of my fingers, which usually signals I’m about to reach for my wallet, slap down my Visa card and declare,

“I’LL TAKE IT! I’LL BUY IT ALL! I WANT EVERYTHING!”

The last time this happened was H&M’s Summer 2011 collection. And since the price of most Hamilton Beach small appliances are actually less than an H&M outfit (I know, right? insane!) you can imagine how giddy I felt.

Want. Want. Want. Tra-la-la-la-la.

So this season, I’ve decided to forego a predictable $39.95 H&M tunic and treat my entire family to this $39.99 Mess Free Belgian Style Waffle Maker instead. Hmm… one season of wear vs. years of breakfast time happiness? No contest.

And just what makes it “Mess Free”? First, it comes with a pre-measured batter cup, so you’ll always pour the perfect amount (excellent for those who normally just eyeball it… and fail). Second, if you’re an incurable eyeballer and decide to pour away, the batter overflow channel keeps the excess from seeping all over your countertop. And third, you can break the finished waffle apart into 8 sticks, perfect for munching on the go (also guaranteed to be a hit with the kiddos.)

So what else makes the cut? Here are four more of my fave gotta-have gizmos from Hamilton Beach:

bébé All in One Baby Food Maker – Ah, products that give you little excuse for laziness. (Er – maybe this shouldn’t be on my list, after all.) But here’s the deal: hands up if you made your baby’s food from scratch… for more than two weeks. Okay, now hands up if you could have used a product that slices, steams and blends foods all in one? PLUS, can be used as a chopper or small blender? And is dishwasher safe? Like I said, zero excuses. So I present to you, the VERY BEST baby shower gift you could possibly give a mom-to-be. The Hamilton Beach bébé All in One Baby Food Maker retails for just $69.99 for the 3-cup model; $79.99 for the sophisticated 5-cup version. Go ahead. Be a champion gifter.

Party Dipper Food Warmer – Repeat after me: “I will not bring a bottle of Merlot to an informal dinner with friends.” Instead, follow these 3 easy steps:

1. Purchase the Hamilton Beach Party Dipper Food Warmer.
2. Whip up a quick spinach, artichoke or cheese dip, and place it in the Party Dipper.
3. Bring the dip to a party. It’ll stay nice and warm, and the removable ceramic dish and lid are microwave/dishwasher safe.
4. Leave the Party Dipper for your hostess. At just $14.99, you’ve now effectively given the finger to all those Merlot-toting guests. Ha ha.

Ice Shaver – This I MUST have. Because I swear that deplorable ice cream truck always slows down in front of my house, beckoning my two boys to spend every cent I earn on cold treats. $4 for a snow cone? Buy the Hamilton Beach Ice Shaver, and it’ll pay for itself after less than 12 uses. Not only can kids enjoy slushies, snow cones & icy treats with your favorite soda or fruit juice, but mommy and her girls can tip back tropical and mixed drinks once the little ones are in bed. Retails for $44.99. Heck ya.

5 Burner Outdoor Grillstation – Okay, so this isn’t really a “gizmo” as it is the answer to your summer feasting dreams. Since I really don’t speak BBQish, click here to view the specs. But know this: every inch of this Grillstation is engineered to make cooking outdoors a pleasure. From its extra large, easy to read gauges to its ergonomically designed hood and burners, even gals can take on the role of resident grill master.

(The Hamilton Beach website is actually a wonderful resource for recipes, including ones hot off the grill – Mahi Mahi With Ginger And Dill, Southwestern Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Grilled Tomatoes with Cumin Butter and more.)

And so I’ve only left about 26 Hamilton Beach items off my “Gotta-Have” list, and yes, my hand is still twitching with the need to splurge on these affordable, incredibly intuitive products. Check out their site for more amazing items, or just stick around… I’m sure I’ll be talking about another favourite product before long.

Click here to visit Hamilton Beach Canada.