Mom Central

A BlogHer ’11 Tale

August 14, 2011 By Lena

Sigh. Finally a moment to sit back and reflect on my BlogHer ’11 experience. By now, you’ve likely come across many tales from other fabulous bloggers, but I’d like to share my thoughts as well as have something to add to my pile of memorabilia.

(My travel buddies for the trip were Tammi from My Organized Chaos and Farah from Faces by Farah, so you’ll likely see their lovely faces in a lot of my photos from the trip. And, many of the photo credits go to Tammi – such a wonderful shutterbug!)

Getting there was a whirlwind. With a golden ticket from Ford and less than two weeks to wrap my head around the fact that I was actually going to BlogHer, I had suitcases to pack, babysitters to arrange (thanks husband!) and babies to wean. (Turns out that Reid was just fine while I was gone – but literally jumped on my boob the second I walked through the door. Huh.)

THE BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO

PALM TREE LINED STREETS

Although the conference took place on Friday and Saturday, I was crossing my fingers that I’d touch down in time for Mom Central’s Canadian Embassy Party on Thursday night. Turns out I had plenty of time to arrive at the hotel, relax and shower before clinking wine glasses with wonderful Canadian bloggers and friends. Putting a face to many of the bloggers I had chatted with online was so enriching! And, the @MC_Canada ladies were beyond wonderful as always – they continually inspire, teach and support moms and blogging in Canada. Fan 4 Life.

On Friday morning, a pulse check with the Ford ladies during breakfast at the Hard Rock Hotel. Ford put together one classy group of social media-minded gals; I was looking forward to getting to know them all over the next few days. Our little group included Donna Marie Antoniadis ~ ShesConnected, Erica Ehm ~ The Yummy Mummy Club, Raymi ~ Raymi the Minx, Shannon ~ Zchamu, Tenille ~ Feisty Frugal and Fabulous, Sarah of Get Mommy Some Gin and Dee ~ Cocktail Deeva. Friday also saw the first day of the conference and me popping in and out of the conference hall, taking in the bits and pieces of all BlogHer has to offer. Much time was spent in the famed expo hall, where I chatted with brands and of course, snagged a ton of swag. Thankfully, I was very selective with my freebies (read: too cheap to pay excess baggage fees) so I whittled down the loot to mainly toys, makeup and chocolate. Lots of chocolate.Many of the booths offered photo ops – too good to pass up when you’re hanging with two gorgeous babes!

Friday night was the much-anticipated yet socially-taboo Softcup party. Anticipated because it was held on a rooftop patio and promised appearances by Mario Lopez, Ryan Cabrera and Amanda Beard; socially-taboo because it was sponsored by a tampon alternative. Regardless, the fun ride via pedi-cab, yummy apps and Cake Vodka shots made it easy to attend and enjoy a party put on by menstrualogists. Bonus: had a chance to hang with the gorgeous Stephanie from Sassy Modern Mom and the equally adorable (and mummy-to-be!) Shelagh from Practical Mum.We then hightailed it to the Cheap Sally party at Stingaree. With a reputation as being San Diego’s best nightclub, noticeably absent were the caged go-go dancers. But I digress; there were jars filled with Rockets (or “Smarties” as they’re known in the US), a Gordon Ramsey cooking display complete with cushions emblazoned with his gorgeous face (managed to snatch one of those!) and a continuing parade of martinis, kobo beef sliders, party goers and party anthems.

A quick pop into the Sparklecorn party was a bit of a letdown; most of the attendees were already sobering up and a quick walk around the room had us running back to the hotel to turn in.

Saturday was a repeat of Friday – dabbling here and there in the seminars and sponsor exhibits, in addition to meeting with friends, bloggers and brands. I was dying to indulge in authentic San Diego fish tacos, so off we trotted to a local Mexican bar/resto for lunch. Yum!

Saturday night; another Ford reunion at Tabule restaurant. On the menu for moi:Shared Starters:

Shrimp and Crab Portobello
Lettuce Duck Wraps
Thai Baby Back Ribs
Mesquite Smoked Ahi Tuna Tacos
Salmon CevicheEntrée:
Lobster Ravioli

Do I really need to say any more? We finished the night partying at CheeseburgHer, where yes, bloggers do wear McD’s bags on their head (I didn’t) and help themselves to a buffet of (wait for it)… cheeseburgers… all night. There was much tootsierolling on the dance floor (you’re welcome Farah) and after shaking our money maker to some old school R&B, it was time to turn in.

At the Ford Family Picnic on Sunday, I had the awesome opportunity to learn about Ford’s Focus on Safety, test drive the peppy Focus (with Donna from She’s Connected playing navigator and Rose – Ford Canada’s rep – describing features and benefits from the back seat). And, we enjoyed the most drool-worthy BBQ at the South Embarcadero Marine Park which was literally right on the water. Bliss.

Donna and Rose weren’t just awesome driving buddies; they later proved to be even better shopping partners as we booted it to Fashion Valley Mall, Nordstrom Rack and Target. When I finally strolled in at 10:00pm that night, it hit me that I hadn’t yet packed and had a 6:00am flight the next morning, necessitating a 3:30am wake up call. Needless to say I got my sh*t together in a hurry so I could hit the hay! The flight home was unremarkable and I literally wept with joy when I saw the faces of my two sweet boys waiting for me at the airport.

Next year BlogHer ’12 is back in NYC – who’s coming with? xo

FARAH AND I, ON OUR WAY TO MOM CENTRAL’S SOIRÉE

I AM 100% CRUSHING ON SARAH @MC

THE LOVELY AND ICONIC ERICA EHM

THE GLORIOUS MARIOTT CONVENTION CENTER

EXPO HALL, BRIMMING WITH BLOGGERS

BUILDING UP MY STREET CRED ON THE SESAME STREET STOOP

PHOTO OPS WITH BLOGGERS AND VAMPIRES

IN OUR PEDI-CAB, READY TO PARTY

THE BEAUTIFUL STEPHANIE AND SHELAGH

GROUP SHOT WITH MR. DIMPLES

GORGEOUS ROSE AT THE FORD FAMILY PICNIC

THE SUPER SAFETY FEATURES: INFLATABLE SEAT BELTS

TAKE ME!

PRO ACTIV VENDING MACHINE? SERIOUSLY?

Fisher-Price: Learning Through Play

July 31, 2011 By Lena

I’m not that mom.

I’m not that mom who has huge expectations of her child. I’m not that mom who takes her little one to early math centres so he can get a leg up on the “competition” (other JK’ers). And I’m certainly not that mom who favours structured socialization over good old fashioned toys (at least not at a tender age). Not that there’s anything wrong with those moms; for better or worse, our parenting styles are simply different. As for me, I guess you could say that I believe in the power of play, and learning through play.

Because it’s more than just banging on a piece of wood or plastic, isn’t it? Every time I see Reid attack one of his toys, he’s learning. He’s sensing, discovering and imagining. In fact, sometimes I can actually see the wheels turning; I anticipate his next move, wait for his next toothy grin, brace myself for the next burst of energy.

A toy as simple as the Fisher-Price Go Baby Go Bat & Wobble Penguin has brought on so much enjoyment! He’s been playing with it for about 3 months on and off, and whenever he’s in a surly mood, I bring it back out to cheer him up. In fact, the pictures below were taken just seconds after a crying fit – not sure if you can see the red rims around his eyes, but this toy definitely stops the tears in my house!

When Reid first encountered the penguin, he’d simply bat it back and forth with much enthusiasm but no real direction. Now, after a little bit of friendly swatting, he picks it up and takes it with him to the couch, babbling away as he sits down beside it. Then, he treats the toy as his best pal; an arm casually swung around it as he pretends to watch the television. Now tell me he hasn’t learned a thing or two about socialization?

Here are a few interesting tidbits from the article, Play and Skill Development on Fisher-Price.com:

– As children play with toys, with one another, and with adults, they acquire and improve the skills necessary for formal learning in later stages of their lives.

– Along with the skills of eye-hand coordination and control that come from playing with toys will come a fantastic amount of concept development—understanding the meaning of relationships and intrinsic characteristics of objects.

– One thing parents want to be sure and look for in toys they buy their children is that the toys should communicate directly to the children and not necessarily require adult explanations. For example, the child knows immediately if he has worked a puzzle correctly.

Get back to basics and let kids be kids! And, check out Fisher-Price Play to find the perfect age and stage appropriate toys for your LOs!

I’m part of the Fisher-Price Play Panel and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Summer Beauty: Philips Sonicare FlexCare+

July 19, 2011 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

I’m MAKING THE SWITCH to Philips Sonicare FlexCare+!

Since this is a beauty event, and an integral part of beauty is a gorgeous, healthy smile, it makes sense that I should lead by example and do something great for my oral health. And I’ve taken a huge step by making the switch to Philips Sonicare FlexCare+, the most advanced power toothbrush on the market.

(Not one to mince words, I just threw away my old electric toothbrush.)

Some of my favourite features of the brush:

– Removes up to 83% of plaque in hard-to-reach areas
– Improves gum health in only two weeks
– Helps remove tea, coffee and other stains
– Includes a UV brush head sanitizer (WOW!)
– Slim ergonomic design plus an easy-to-read illuminated display panel

Click here to see full specifications of the Philips Sonicare FlexCare+.

Today, I’ll be putting the toothbrush together and charging it overnight – and then, I’ll embark on a two-week journey with hopes to see whiter teeth, healthier gums and fresher breath.

(My husband, who was incredibly jealous when the toothbrush arrived, just found out about the UV Brush Head Sanitizer that kills up to 99% of bacteria and viruses. “Perfect!” he said. “We can share the toothbrush!” Um….)

I’ll circle back in about two weeks with a vlog entry – I’m hoping to report some big changes!

The Philips Sonicare FlexCare+ retails for $219.95 in Canada. Visit Philips.ca to find a retail store near you.

You too can make the switch! One lucky reader will win a Philips Sonicare FlexCare+ toothbrush (value $220)!

To enter, simply leave a comment telling me why you’d like to make the switch. (Note: Readers may enter the contest on multiple blogs but are only eligible to win one Sonicare Flexcare+ as part of the contest.)

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena! (2 extra entries!)
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) NEW Follow Listen to Lena! on Twitter
(4) Tweet daily: Please use this Philips Sonicare FlexCare+ Giveaway Tweet.

I’ll draw for a winner on August 14th. Good luck everybody!

I am participating in the PHILIPS SONICARE FLEXCARE+ program by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Philips Canada. I received a Sonicare product pack and a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Life Made Delicious BBQ Prize Pack Winner!

July 8, 2011 By Lena

Thank you to everyone who entered the LMD Celebrate Summer Giveaway. If you’re looking for new, mouth watering, and above all, easy recipes to try this season, look no further than Life Made Delicious!

(Pictured right are Fresh Strawberry Tarts… YUM!)

Up for grabs is a “Celebrate Summer Giveaway” pack, valued at approximately $100.

It includes:
Barbecue Utensil Set
Paper Plates & Colourful Napkins
General Mills goodies: Old El Paso, Cheerios (incl. Chocolate Cheerios), Fibre 1, Betty Crocker and Nature Valley

And the winner is #658 Erie! Congratulations!

Please send me an e-mail with your mailing address, including phone number, so I can have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks again to everyone who participated, and to Life Made Delicious!

It’s the Official Start of BBQ Season!

May 23, 2011 By Lena

Woo! My “May 2-4” weekend was a blend of sheer craziness and sheer relaxation. I’m currently in a chillin’ mode, which I must admit is my favourite way to be :)

Saturday morning began with Reid’s first birthday party (I know, where has the time flown!).

We had a “small” party; just about 35 friends and family. I was joking with my girlfriend that as we get older and families expand, it only takes about 10 invitations to families of 3-4 to pack the house! I’ll blog about some of the party highlights in a separate post later this week.

After the party, hubby and boys crashed while mommy cleaned up… but that’s okay, because I have a pedicure with my name on it tomorrow. I can’t remember what time I went to sleep that night, but I’m sure it coincided with the sunset.

Sunday we were out and about. I had been holding on to about 6 items that needed to be returned, so I dragged the family to Square One in order to put $$$ back on the Visa. As much as I like purchasing goodies, sometimes it can be just as satisfying to sign a refund slip :)

Today, we decided to keep it low key and have a lunchtime BBQ. With grey skies and heavy clouds overhead, my husband ran out to throw some burgers on the grill. Here’s a quick pic of our BBQ Master in action…

I can’t tell you how excited I am to kick off the official start of BBQ Season!

This year, while burgers and hot dogs are always on the menu, we’ll be complementing our yummy fare with products from Wonder + SimplyFree. It is the first Canadian national brand of bakery products (including NEW white hotdog and hamburger buns) that are made with unbleached wheat flour. SimplyFree buns have absolutely no:

– artificial preservatives
– flavours
– colouring or dye
– high fructose corn syrup

In other words, ENJOY! You can now have your buns, and eat them (guilt-free) too! Seriously folks, you’re gonna LOVE them.

But don’t just take my word for it… head on over to Facebook and “Like” Wonder+. You’ll have the opportunity to grab money saving coupons, participate in fun promotions, and grab scrumptious recipes made especially for the grill.

Speaking of recipes, you can also check out Canadian Living, where they’ve teamed up with Wonder+ SimplyFree to provide some of most drool-worthy burgers of the summer, including these Zesty Chicken Burgers and Juicy Extra Lean Burgers.

As someone who’s still got a few pounds to lose, I’m all for healthier alternatives such as burgers made with lean ground chicken. Will be whipping up these babies soon!

How did you spend your long weekend? And, did you have a chance to fire up your BBQ? Do tell!

I am participating in the Wonder+ SimplyFree program by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Weston Bakeries. I received a gift card and free product coupons as a thank you. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Fisher Price Play Panel!

April 11, 2011 By Lena

A few of y’all have heard whispers of me collaborating with Fisher-Price… and I’m happy to announce the rumours are true! In conjunction with Mom Central Canada, I have the distinct privilege of being part of the Fisher-Price Play Panel!

We all know how important play is for our children’s development, and Fisher-Price has been a trusted name when it comes to quality toys and gear that are sure to keep your little ones engaged and to help them reach their next milestone. In fact, on the Fisher-Price website, you can actually choose a development milestone – and then find a product that is perfect for your child! From the Go Baby Go! Crawl-Along Drum Roll, Brilliant Basics Chatter Telephone to the Drillin’ Action Tool Set, the toys have been a staple in my house, throughout my boys’ development.

As a part of the Fisher-Price Play Panel, I’m hoping to help other moms make early childhood more fun and enriching by sharing Fisher-Price reviews, my go-to favourites, and everything you need to know about Fisher-Price toys and the items they offer to help all children play, laugh and grow.

(Did I mention we had the chance to participate in a cool photo shoot? That’s Ryder hanging on the Little People Lil’ Movers School Bus!)

Look for my reviews and recommendations soon!

Life Made Delicious!

March 30, 2011 By Lena

I have the awesome privilege of being a Life Made Delicious Connector – through Mom Central, I’m part of a wonderful team of bloggers who have the opportunity to review General Mills products, trade recipes and meal ideas, participate in foodie-themed discussion, and, of course, share some of our cooking successes with you!

Now I know you’ve heard of LifeMadeDelicious.ca, THE spot for easy recipes and more, but for those who have yet to discover this awesome site, register today for FREE, and you can start living the delicious life!

When you register for the Life Made Delicious website and email program, you open the door to exclusive recipes, offers and perks from your favourite General Mills brands. You’ll also get tips and tools to help you save time inside and outside of the kitchen. Join now and you can:

– Store all your favourite recipes in your Recipe Box to find them quickly and easily
– Find out about the latest promotions and coupons from General Mills brands
– Get ideas for easy entertaining, dinnertime dilemmas and family activities

I LOVE their Top 10 Recipe Collections – quite frankly the easiest way to uncover the BEST of Life Made Delicious in just a few clicks.

Now I know a lot of mamas are constantly searching for easy, healthy and satisfying recipes for kids. Life Made Delicious makes it a snap to find meals you can cook with your children; meals the whole family will enjoy; and kid friendly (and parent approved!) desserts!

I’m loving:

Cereal Fun Cookies – A yummy snack mix made of kid-friendly ingredients.
Fruity Cereal Bars – Great-tasting, chewy bars made with your choice of dried fruit.
Fruit Pizza – Pizza gets a fruity twist in this easier-than-pie recipe. Just heat and eat!

This morning, I treated Ryder to a sweet breakfast wrap! I found a recipe for Peanut Butter and Banana Wraps on the website, but I gave it my own spin; instead of adding honey, I caramelized the bananas – and I substituted dark chocolate shavings for chocolate chips.

Ryder got in on the action and helped put it together, which dramatically increased his desire to eat it, ha! I had Old El Paso Smart Fiesta Whole Grain Tortillas on hand; these tortillas are a great source of fibre and, as the name suggests, are made with whole grains. (You can grab a coupon to save $1 on Smart Fiesta products by visiting SmartFiesta.ca)

You’ll need:

1 large Old El Paso Smart Fiesta Whole Grain Tortilla
1 small, ripe banana
2 tsp creamy peanut butter
cooking spray
dark chocolate shavings, if desired

Spray a non-stick pan with cooking spray on medium heat (Canola oil only; no olive oil sprays or your bananas will taste like olives! If you’re not watching fat/calories you can alternatively melt a tablespoon of butter.)

Cut banana in fours as shown below (cute kid in background optional).

Fry the banana until just caramelized, flipping once or twice. Be gentle so that the pieces don’t break apart. Browning the banana brings out its natural sugar and almost triples the sweetness.

While the banana is browning, have your helper spread 2 tsp of peanut butter on the large tortilla. Ryder uses the back of a spoon – and takes a taste or two when I’m not looking.

Once the banana is browned, place the pieces in the middle of the tortilla (caution – they’ll be HOT!) and fold the tortilla over twice. If you prefer, you can roll the tortilla into a tight cigar.

I like to finish the wrap by shaving dark chocolate lightly over the top. The breakfast wrap is ooey, gooey and full of delicious sweet flavour. Plus, it’s HEALTHY! Whole grains from the tortilla, protein from the peanut butter and potassium from the banana (not to mention anti-oxidants from the dark chocolate) – and I’d say you’ve got a winner!

Be sure to check out more DE-LISH recipes for kids from Life Made Delicious!

I am part of the Life Made Delicious Connector program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Cheerios First Foods Giveaway… Winner!

February 16, 2011 By Lena

Thanks to everyone who entered the Cheerios First Foods giveaway. Looks like most of us love the recipe section of the new website – and the meal planner was also a hit among moms!

Remember, if you’ve got questions about first foods, are looking for healthy and tasty recipes, or if you’d just like to sit back and enjoy some pretty awesome videos on baby/toddler nutrition, do visit the new First Foods section at babycenter.ca.

Up for grabs is a Cheerios Prize Pack (value $50!), including a Cheerios On-the-Go Tot Container, Cheerios Playbook, Box of Cheerios, Bowl/Utensil Set and a $30 Cash Card.

And the winner is… Nathania Auger! Congratulations!

Please send me an e-mail with your contact details, and I’ll be sure to have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks again to everyone who participated, and to Cheerios!

Cheerios First Foods Giveaway

February 6, 2011 By Lena

*The following giveaway is open to Canadian residents only.*

In a previous post, we chatted about some of Ryder’s most memorable milestones. At the top of my list was his introduction to finger foods – and the beginning of his love affair with Cheerios.

In my opinion, Cheerios are the PERFECT finger food. They are easily managed by little fingers and help develop motor skills because the O’s are easy to pick up, firm and resist crumbling. And they happen to be delicious!

Now Ryder has always been a picky eater, but he’s always in the mood for Cheerios. In fact, he’ll cheerfully give up just about any food and swap it for a bowl of his favourite cereal (including my famous lasagna – who is this kid?)

I must admit that I’ve spent more than my share of time Googling, researching and chatting with moms about how to win over a picky eater. Ryder generally doesn’t mind trying new foods, but he’s a creature of habit and rejects new tastes and textures quickly. I’m constantly looking for new tips and tricks to get him to increase the variety in his diet.

(Thankfully for every ying there is a yang; Reid will eat just about anything that is put on a spoon or on his tray. Phew.)

So I’m particularly happy to spread the word about the new First Foods section at babycenter.ca, brought to you in partnership with Cheerios!

“Wondering if it’s time to buy a highchair, or if you should wait a while? Or what to feed your baby first? Or maybe you’re looking for some inspiration, some new ideas to try on your little one. Our starting solids section contains tips and tasty recipes your baby will love. We also answer all your questions about foods to avoid giving your baby and why, and how to cope with food allergies and intolerances.”

The First Foods section is chock-full of informative articles, kid-friendly recipes (I LOVE Annabel Karmel’s Hidden Vegetable Bolognaise), advice from the experts, videos, polls, and even useful pages that you can download and print.

It also includes help with picky eaters! Check out these articles on How can I encourage my baby to like savoury foods? and How can I get my baby interested in solid food?

Another bonus: You’re probably already familiar with babycenter.ca; it’s your one-stop for everything pregnancy and baby! I have fond memories of tracking both boy’s weekly progress during my pregnancies, and now, I’m a frequent visitor to their “Potty Training” and “Toddler Sleep” sections.

So if you’ve got questions about first foods, are looking for healthy and tasty recipes, or if you’d just like to sit back and enjoy some pretty awesome videos on baby/toddler nutrition, do visit the new First Foods section!

Cheerios and Mom Central Canada are offering one lucky Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win a Cheerios Prize Pack (value $50!), including a Cheerios On-the-Go Tot Container, Cheerios Playbook, Box of Cheerios, Bowl/Utensil Set and a $30 Cash Card.

To enter, simply check out the First Foods section and leave a comment here, telling us about some of the features you love.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment to claim your extra entry. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) Like Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) Tweet about this giveaway (tiny URL: http://tinyurl.com/4uqmzpb)
(4) You may Tweet daily.

I’ll draw for a winner on February 14th. Good luck everybody!

I am participating in the Cheerios First Foods program by Mom Central on behalf of General Mills. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

The Phytozyme Cure (Enter to Win!)

January 9, 2011 By Lena

*Please Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadian residents only.*

Last night I lay awake at night, thinking about the past few years of my life. Trying to create my own highlight reel, if you please. And I realized, with a start, that other than getting married and giving birth to two beautiful boys, my life seemed to be devoid of “memorable” moments. Sure – there were the odds highs (winning two blog awards last year; buying my long lusted-after Mini Cooper in 2009; wine tasting in Napa Valley in 2007). But my own personal shining moments – relating to my health, weight, zest for life and vitality – sadly, felt short of the mark.

So it’s my resolution this year to create “health and happiness” highlights for myself. I want to experience moments of laughter where I roll on the floor and tears flow from my eyes. I want to nourish my body from within so that I feel beautiful both inside and out. And most important, I’m striving to understand and adapt the healing powers of fresh foods (and their phytonutrients and enzymes) to help strengthen my immune system, protect my body from disease and even help me look younger (hello!). And I’m off to a splendid start by reading The Phytozyme Cure by Michelle Schoffro Cook.

“In The Phytozyme Cure, Dr. Michelle Schoffro Cook reveals her cutting-edge, powerful, and all-natural Phytozyme Therapy, which involves the specific combination of miracle healing substances to supercharge their effects – and your health.

Dr. Michelle Schoffro Cook is one of North America’s leading natural health experts. Over the past two decades, she has seen that phytonutrients alone can speed weight loss, aid the prevention of heart disease and cancer, and even reverse some of the effects of aging. Similarly, certain enzymes have been known to reverse pain and inflammation; break down bacteria, fungi, viruses, toxins, and cancer cells; remove scar tissue; and even help our bodies grow healthy new tissue, skin and hair. But the real miracle begins when these powerhouses work together. With the right combination, many illnesses can be improved or even reversed. In The Phytozyme Cure, Dr. Schoffro Cook shares these powerful protocols for managing more than 30 common health conditions including allergies, digestive disorders, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.”

Benefits of Phytozyme Therapy include:

Faster healing
Improved energy
Greater mental clarity
Increased resistance to illness
Enhanced immune functioning
Accelerated weight loss
A more youthful appearance

I’ll be frank; the book is not an easy read. Wrapping your head around the numerous phytonutrients and enzymes, plus understanding how to use them beneficially, takes much time and attention. In fact, Michelle references so many “common” compounds that it’s virtually impossible to digest all the natural therapies. But thankfully, the book is sectioned into two parts: Part One explains the factors that make up the Phytozyme cure (including a list of phytonutrients and enzymes, explanations of terms and the rationale behind Phytozyme therapy), and Part Two shows how the cure can be applied to specific health conditions (arthritis, cancer, depression, diabetes, heart disease, skin problems, yeast infections and more). Although the information is dense, I found the content enjoyable and certainly laid out well.

Click here to read excerpts from The Phytozyme Cure.

For readers looking to boost their overall health, the easiest way to tackle the book is to read the background information and then skip directly to the illness/ condition in which you would like to apply the remedies. In my humble opinion, the author uses the term “cure” almost too frequently throughout the book – I feel a more appropriate term would be “treatment” or “supplemental therapy.” People who are willing to subscribe to Phytozyme therapy in its entirety will probably benefit more than the lay person looking for nutritional advice – that being said, I still strongly recommend this book to those seeking a higher level of health and wellness. After reading the book lightly, I can honestly say that I’ve bookmarked quite a few pages – my favourites being “Phytonutrients: What They Do and Where to Find Them.” This is a MUST read before your next grocery shopping expedition.

The Phytozyme Cure is available at Amazon.ca and Chapters.Indigo.ca.

Michelle Schoffro Cook and Mom Central Canada are offering one Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win his/her own copy of The Phytozyme Cure!

To enter, simply leave a comment here with your resolution(s) for 2011.

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(3) Tweet about this giveaway (tiny URL: http://tinyurl.com/24663qg)
(4) You may Tweet daily.

I’ll draw for a winner on February 6th. Good luck everybody!

I am participating in the Phytozyme Cure program by Mom Central on behalf of Wiley Publishing. I received a copy of the book to review and gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Shoppers Drug Mart v.i.b.

November 15, 2010 By Lena

If you’ve got a new baby or one on the way, chances are that you’ll (happily) accept all the help you can get. Whether you receive frozen casseroles, a pass from diaper duty or even a voucher for a relaxing prenatal/postpartum massage, accept all these gifts happily – you totally deserve them!

Shoppers Drug Mart wants to reward you – and your new baby – with the v.i.b. (Very Important Baby) program. When you become a v.i.b. member, you’ll receive Shoppers Optimum Bonus Points (which always come in handy!), exclusive offers on trusted brands and helpful advice on health and wellness for you and your baby (or baby to be!).

The perks of this program are huge! If you’re currently pregnant, be sure to sign up toute suite: you’ll receive a wonderful New Baby Gift Pack when your baby is born, which includes:

Aveeno Baby Fragrance Free Daily Lotion (29 mL)
Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash (59 mL)
Johnson’s Head to Toe Body Wash (29 mL)
Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes
Huggies Pure & Natural Newborn Diapers (Package of 3)
v.i.b Bib
… and more!

Then, the program grows with your child – each v.i.b. member stays connected with content relevant to your child’s life stage, exclusive Optimum offers and hot deals on baby products through their e-newsletters. You’ll also receive a cute little card on your baby’s first birthday :)

I LOVE this program! During Ryder’s first few months of life, I can’t tell you how many times I had one-on-ones with my Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacist. Teething. Drug reactions. Fever. Gassiness. They are baby experts! And with many Shoppers Drug Marts open til midnight or 24 hours, a pharmacist is always there to help.

You can also WIN with the v.i.b program – sign up to be a v.i.b member between November 3rd and December 1st and you could win 1 of 50, $50 Shoppers Drug Mart gift cards*! PLUS as a new member you’ll receive 2500 points the next time you purchase any Pampers diaper products!

Here’s the fine print:
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Visit www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/babycontest for full contest details and information on how to enter without a purchase. Approximate retail value of prize is $50. Chances of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Correct answer to skill-testing question required to be declared a winner. Must be a Canadian resident and age of majority or older in province or territory of residence. Valid Shoppers Optimum Card® required to participate. Contest ends December 1st, 2010.

What are you waiting for mommies? Join now!

I am participating in the Shoppers Drug Mart v.i.b program by Mom Central on behalf of Shoppers Drug Mart. I received a gift card and a new baby gift pack as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Quaker Journey to Wellness

November 14, 2010 By Lena

Since having children, terms such as “healthy lifestyle“, “organic living” and “holistic approach” have found their way into my conscience. While I’ve overlooked my own bad habits over the years (coffee and a chocolate bar for lunch; dinners spent in front of my laptop) I now put a lot of thought and consideration into how to make lifestyle improvements for my whole family.

And for the most part, it’s pretty darn simple. We’ve curtailed the amount of take-out we consume, reducing our dial-a-dinner usage to just once per week; snacks for Ryder stay mostly preservative-free; and both Mike and I have found ways to work around stress – which includes increased communication, relaxation techniques and a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Baby steps, really, but every little change surely helps on a journey to wellness.

In 2011, it’s our goal to rid our home of all foods high in sodium, which loosely translates to pre-packaged meals and snack foods. It’s quite the task for my husband, who is a self-proclaimed salt fiend… but I think we can wean him off chips slowly but surely (be gone sour cream ‘n onion!).

Quaker realizes that wellness is a goal for many families, as has invited mommy-blogger Lynn to document her family’s journey as they challenge themselves to make healthy changes. Her candid experiences, wellness resources and monthly challenges can be found at quakerjourney.ca.

Go on and check it out – you’ll be happy you did! The best part – there are lots of different ways that you can get involved and enter to win awesome prizes! Weekly prizes are randomly awarded to readers who comment on the blog, vote in polls or share a tip with Lynn about healthy living. There are larger monthly prizes to be won by voting on the challenges that you’d like Lynn to take on.

I’ve been following Lynn and have come across yummy recipes, exercise tips and lots of suggestions for lifestyle improvements. I’ll have to remember to share my recipe for award winning chewy oatmeal cookies – made with Old Fashioned Quaker Oats, of course!

Click here to visit quakerjourney.ca.

I am participating in the Quaker Journey to Wellness program by Mom Central on behalf of Pepsi Co. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Aquafresh Advanced Futures Contest!

November 7, 2010 By Lena

*The following giveaway in open to Canadians only*

I hope you all have been enjoying my It’s One of A Kind! features on Canadian artists – there’s PLENTY more to come!

If you you don’t mind, let’s deter for a second for some fabulous news…

I’m delighted to announce the Aquafresh Advanced Futures Contest – where you can share your wish on www.aquafresh.ca/contest for a chance to WIN a $10,000 RESP, courtesy of new Aquafresh Advanced!

We all have many wishes for our children, and I believe one of the major responsibilities of parenting is to teach our children to believe in the power of their own dreams. Before Ryder was born, I pictured an athlete. A school treasurer. An actor who would star in a movie alongside Brad Pitt (thereby having to make the necessary introductions, of course). Then, once I laid eyes on my son, I only wanted one thing: for him to be a healthy, happy individual.

A few years have passed and I once again have various aspirations for both him and his little brother: A kind heart. A respect for people and the environment. The courage to stand up for what you believe in. The humility to admit when you are wrong. And most of all, the stamina to hold onto your dreams.

And if they want to become actors and work with Brad Pitt, I guess I could deal with that too.

What are your wishes for your child? Visit the Aquafresh Advanced Futures Contest before November 30th, and you can help make dreams a reality with a $10,000 RESP!

Aquafresh Advanced, an enamel strengthening formula, contains active fluoride which penetrates deep into tooth enamel to strengthen teeth from the inside out – for strong, healthy-looking teeth for a lifetime.

Get your kids brushing with these helpful tips:

– Make it a habit. Children should get into a healthy routine of brushing after breakfast and before bed. They should brush for at least two minutes so that the fluoride has time to work.

– Limit the amount of toothpaste. Children under 6 years of age don’t need more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to clean effectively. This will also help that tube last a little longer!

– Be supportive. Up until first grade or later, kids will need supervision and coaching to brush properly. Make brushing more fun by playing or singing a favorite song, setting a timer to count down two minutes, or offering to read a favorite story as a reward.

ENTER TO WIN!

Have some toothbrushing tips and tricks? Leave a comment on this post with your favourite tip, and one lucky Listen to Lena! reader will win a Philips Sonicare for Kids Toothbrush valued at $70, and a sample of Aquafresh Advanced toothpaste!

You can also qualify for extra entries! Remember, you must leave a separate comment for each. You can:

(1) Follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) Tweet about this giveaway (tiny URL: http://tinyurl.com/37zopx8)
(3) You may Tweet daily.

I’ll draw for a winner on November 22nd. Note: Participants can enter on multiple blogs but are only eligible to win once. Good luck!

I am participating in the Aquafresh Advanced Futures program by Mom Central on behalf of GSK. I received a sample of Aquafresh Advanced and gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Cheerios Milestones Winner!

November 1, 2010 By Lena

Thanks to everyone who shared their children’s milestone memories! We’re presently working on getting Ryder toilet trained, which I know will be a huge milestone in this house!

A friend recently asked on Facebook: “How’s Ryder? Still eating Cheerios everyday?” To which I replied, OF COURSE! He loves his favourite finger food. Now I’ve got a cute little a Cheerios playbook, perfect for learning and fun, to give away to…

Shauna MacKenzie! Congratulations!

Please send me your mailing address so that I may have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks again to everyone who participated, and to Cheerios and Mom Central!

Don’t forget – there’s still time to have your child featured on a special edition Cheerios Box and WIN $10,000 towards an RESP from TD Canada Trust!

Simply provide a photo of your child’s Cheerios milestone, and write a short description of how Cheerios has played a special part in the early years of your child.

For full contest details, and to submit your entry, please visit the Cheerios Website. Contest closes December 15th.

Cheerios Milestones!

October 30, 2010 By Lena

EDIT – Just a couple of days left in this contest! You can win a cute little Cheerios book – c’mon, tell us your favourite milestone!

*The following contest is open to Canadians only.*

“Milestones.”

Once you become a parent, the word is loaded with meaning. It can invoke joy, paranoia, and downright depression depending on how your child fares against the perception of when the milestone “should” be met. With Ryder, I spent too much time stressing over what he should be doing, quite contrary to his pediatrician’s advice:

“Don’t worry about it. Take a group of 5 years olds. Nobody cares when they took their first step or said their first word. On the contrary, it would be nice if they’d sit down and shut up. The point is, all kids catch up eventually, and at their own pace.”

I love that man.

Now that’s not to say I didn’t enjoy Ryder’s milestones – and one memory that always makes me feel warm and fuzzy is that of Ryder discovering his first finger food: Cheerios. At around 7 months, I had been trying for weeks to get him to pick up and taste the delicious little O’s. He would push them around on his tray, lick one, put it in his mouth, and then gag. Sigh.

Of course, Ryder has always had a problem with new textures, so I just kept offering him the Cheerios, hoping that one day he would get the hang of it. And after a few days, he did! Since then, he has enjoyed Cheerios EVERY SINGLE DAY. It’s his favourite breakfast, snack, and before bed munchies. I love that there’s only 1 gram of sugar per serving; they provide at least 10% of the Daily Value of 14 essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and folic acid; and have no artificial colors or flavors.

Plus, they’re the perfect finger food! Cheerios are easily managed by little fingers and help develop motor skills because the O’s are easy to pick up, firm and resist crumbling. And they happen to be YUM!

Here’s Ryder at 7 months old enjoying his Cheerios!

If you have a Cheerios milestone to share, you could have your child featured on a special edition Cheerios Box and WIN $10,000 towards an RESP from TD Canada Trust!

Simply provide a photo of your child’s Cheerios milestone, and write a short description of how Cheerios has played a special part in the early years of your child.

For full contest details, and to submit your entry, please visit the Cheerios Website. Contest closes December 15th.

Good news! I’m also hosting a mini-Cheerios giveaway!

One lucky Listen to Lena! reader will receive a Cheerios playbook, perfect for learning and fun! To enter, simply leave a comment sharing a story about one of your child’s milestones.

Blog followers – treat yourself to an extra entry! Remember, you must leave a separate comment announcing your follower status. I’ll draw for a winner at the end of October. Good luck everybody!

I am participating in the Cheerios Milestones program by Mom Central on behalf of General Mills. I received a gift card as a thank you. The opinions on this blog are my own.

A+D Diaper Rash Products Winner!

September 4, 2010 By Lena

Thanks to everyone who entered the A+D Diaper Rash Products giveaway. Did you know that A+D offers two distinct products to meet your baby’s specific needs – one to prevent diaper rash every day, and one to treat occasional rashes? It’s true – customized protection and relief for that oh-so-precious tender tushy.

And a big Woot! to everyone who commented with their “Must Have” baby items! Looks like many mamas love their swing, padded changing pad, glider and of course, a quality diaper cream! I can’t believe I forgot to add a glider to my list – I sit in it while nursing Reid about 8 times per day!

Up for grabs is A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF A+D PRODUCTS! (That’s 3 tubes of A+D Diaper Rash Ointment AND 3 tubes of A+D Diaper Rash Cream).

And the winner is… tevange! Congratulations!

Please send me an e-mail with your complete contact details, so that I can have the prize sent to you right away. Thanks to everyone who participated, and to A+D and Mom Central!

A+D Diaper Rash Products in Canada!

August 26, 2010 By Lena

**GIVEAWAY BELOW – Keep Reading!**

Another quality product makes it’s way north of the border – A+D Diaper Rash products are now available in Canada. Did you know that almost every baby may experience diaper rash at some point? Yep, the odds are discouraging. What is encouraging, however, is that we’ll now have access to one of the best selling products aimed at preventing and curing the unwanted irritation.

A+D offers two distinct products to meet your baby’s specific needs – one to prevent diaper rash every day, and one to treat occasional rashes. I received both the diaper rash ointment and diaper rash cream to test. Since my house is currently a rash-free zone, I passed the items on to Lila, a friend who runs a home daycare. Let’s break it down:

The goods: A+D Diaper Rash Ointment can be used at every diaper change to help prevent diaper rash from occurring, especially at bedtime when exposure to wet diapers is prolonged. It is specially formulated with vitamins A, D and lanolin.

The feedback: Lila liked the thick, gel-like consistency and praised it’s protective quality. Both babies who were offered the ointment stayed free of diaper rash for the 7-day test period, even though one had been prone to bouts of rash in the past.

The goods: A+D Diaper Rash Cream is specially formulated with zinc oxide, the #1 pediatrician-recommended ingredient for the treatment of diaper rash. It spreads on easily, providing thorough coverage for fast, effective treatment and long-lasting protection.

The feedback: A little cream went a long way to soothe crevices that displayed signs of impending rash. Lila told me to make sure I indicated that she LOVED THE SCENT, ease of application and staying power of the product. Her only complaint is that I did not introduce this cream to her sooner – it makes her Top 10 list of things she has on hand at the daycare.

So it got me thinking – what are my Top 10 must have items? In no particular order…

1. An effective diaper ointment and/or cream, of course. It’s essential to have on hand, because you definitely do NOT want your little one to suffer even a minute if they don’t have to. Lila recommends A+D products!

2. For nursing mamas, the Medela Freestyle breast pump. I don’t think I could live without it. Not only did it help establish my milk supply, but it allows me to express a full feed in a matter of minutes. A double electric pump rules.

3. For bottle feeding mamas, Born Free bottles. They are the only bottles that made sense when I had Ryder (he was born around the same time the whole BPA issue came to light) and the only bottles Reid will accept when he’s not on the breast. LOVE them.

4. A wipes warmer. We do everything we can to keep our little ones warm and toasty – so why wipe their delicate bum bum with a cold wipe? YOU try cold, wet toilet paper and see how you like it. Plus, wipes warmers do a great job of keeping the wipes moist and fresh.

5. A stylish diaper bag. I waited to long to join the ranks of the fashion forward mamas. If you’re going to give up Coach, make sure you’re replacing it with something that makes an equally bold statement. Plus, chances are that diaper bag will be on your arm for YEARS. Don’t cheap out.

6. A good thermometer. When your child is sick, you will take his/her temperature obsessively. Like, every hour. Sometimes twice an hour, especially if they already have a fever. Invest in a quality thermometer which provides accurate measurements quickly.

7. An automatic bouncer. Mimicking the swaying motion of a mother’s arms, I don’t think I could have survived the first few weeks without it. And now that Reid requires less sleep, it’s his favourite chair to bounce, chill and otherwise observe the world. I like the Bright Starts Ingenuity Automatic bouncer.

8. Sleepers. You can never have too many, especially in the first few months when babies pee, poop and spit up all over their clothes. Sometimes Reid’s explosive #2’s creep out of his diaper, necessitating several changes per day. And there’s something wonderful about a baby who’s all cuddled up from tip to toe.

9. A quality baby monitor. No need to get fancy with HD video and surround sound; one that clearly detects noise is sufficient and will allow you to be in another part of the house without having to check in every 5 minutes. With Ryder, I barely used the monitor in the first few months because I was too paranoid to let him out of my sight. I know better now, and Reid is monitored (pun intended) from afar every chance I get.

10. PVR. This one’s for you, mama. It will allow you to watch your favourite shows at a time that suits you; entertain you in the middle of the night (infomercials at 4:00am do nothing to keep me alert); and you’ll be more willing to give up Y&R for The Backyardigans, knowing that you can catch it later on. LOVE PVR.

Is your must-have item not on this list? Do tell!

One Canadian Listen to Lena! reader will have the chance to win A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF A+D PRODUCTS! (That’s 3 tubes of A+D Diaper Rash Ointment AND 3 tubes of A+D Diaper Rash Cream).

To enter, simply leave a comment telling us what your own “must have” item is for new babies. I’ll draw for a winner at the end of next week. Please note that you can enter this giveaway on multiple blogs, but you can only win once.

*Blog Followers, Claim Your EXTRA Entry!*

I wrote this post while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central Canada and received a Mom Central gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Lena Loves… The Gourmet Pregnancy CLOSED

May 15, 2010 By Lena

Preggos everywhere will agree: eating great food while pregnant can be a challenge. Not that there aren’t plentiful options – it’s just that some of our favourite meals always tend to include a taboo food or two. Which pregnant lady hasn’t experienced the following scenario when eating out:

Goat cheese pizza? Er – is the goat cheese pasteurized? Um, you know, heat processed? Can you please check?

Is the Ceasar salad dressing made in-house? Does it contain raw eggs? Cause, you know…

Uh… it says here the western omelette contains ham. Has that been fully cooked until steaming? Like, zapped with heat until all the listeria is killed? Never mind…

Sometimes it’s just easier to eat at home. And that’s why I love The Gourmet Pregnancy. The cookbook was created to celebrate food during pregnancy, and provides simple, easy to follow and delicious recipes that any expectant mother can make with pleasure.

Though author Leah Douglas was thrilled to find out she was expecting, she soon found herself longing for the days of cooking and eating whatever struck her fancy. Now that cocktails, sushi, and nights on the town were out of the question, she decided to search for new ways of experiencing food, friends, and fun. With a few tweaks, she discovered guilt-free – and doctor approved – gourmet meals that made her feel sexy and confident in her changing body.

Mom Central generously sent me a copy of the cookbook, in addition to a $50 PC Gift Card to grab my groceries and create a meal. And after flipping through the book just once, I was hooked. Apart from the wealth of recipes guaranteed to make anyone drool, I loved how the book was laid out. The cookbook began with the section “not invited to the party,” which included a list of foods that should be avoided in pregnancy (and thus were omitted from all the recipes inside).

Following the taboo foods was my very part of the cookbook – the “what are you craving?” index. Here you will find all the recipes in the book categorized by cravings – chocolate, salty snacks, red meat, tangy or tart foods, fruits, etc. It’s ingenious! You simply have to decide what floats your boat at the moment, et voila! An entire listing of recipes at your fingertips, all designed to satisfy and nourish. Love, love, LOVE this feature.

If you’re not craving anything but good food, the cookbook is laid out by breakfast and brunch, snacks and sidekicks, appetizers, lighter fare, entrées, desserts and drinks.

Shall I tempt you? How about such recipes as Sourdough French Toast with Blueberry Creme; Sweet Potato Fries with Truffle Aioli; Sun-Dried Olive and Tomato Tuna Zucchini Rounds; Lemongrass Tiger Prawn and Chickpea Salad; Apple and Anjou Pear Beef with Smashed Yams; White Peach Crumble Pie with Caramel Drizzle; Fresh Mango Strawberry Lemonade… okay, that’s enough teasing for now!

For dinner this evening, hubby and I were feeling like something on the lighter side, so we settled on a Grilled Pear and Thai Basil Sandwich with a side green salad. Incorporating Thai basil, Bosc pears, premium aged cheddar and sourdough bread, we were anxious to sample the medley of flavours.

The prep time was less than 10 minutes and before we knew it, we were sinking our teeth into one of the best dinner sandwiches we’ve had in a long time. The saltiness of the aged cheddar paired perfectly with the sweet pear, and a fresh burst of Thai basil came shining through with every bite. Mike theorized that this meal would make the cut on any bistro menu, and even I had to agree that this wasn’t “pregnancy gourmet” – it was everyday gourmet.

Although I’ve got just about a week to go before baby is due, I can easily see myself drawing inspiration from this cookbook at any time. Don’t be fooled by the title – the recipes inside will satisfy every palette!

The Gourmet Pregnancy is available online at Chapters.ca or Amazon.ca.

Or… you can win a copy for yourself here!

Mom Central, in association with John Wiley & Sons Publishing, is generously offering one Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win The Gourmet Pregnancy! You should definitely enter this contest if…

a) You’re pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
b) You have friends who are/will be pregnant (makes an awesome Congratulations! gift)
c) You’re not (and will never be) pregnant – but love gourmet food that is quick and easy to make

So essentially… EVERYONE!

To enter, simply leave a comment telling us your favourite gourmet meal to prepare at home (mine is Fillet Mignon with Balsamic Truffle-Butter Sauce). I’ll draw for a winner on May 31st. Good luck everybody!

Pampers: A Parent is Born

December 8, 2009 By Lena

Before (and shortly after) we welcomed Ryder, I couldn’t get enough advice on just about everything baby-related. I joined chat groups, searched the Internet like a woman possessed, and asked fellow moms (the experts!) about their do’s and don’ts.

And now, since I’ve been there and back, I feel somewhat qualified to lend a few of my own words of wisdom:

1. If you wonder whether you’ll be a good mom – the answer is yes. Never forget that. The fact that you care at all makes you a-okay. A bad mom wouldn’t give a fig whether she was good or not.

2. There are two things in this world that you can catch up on: your favourite recorded TV shows and sleep. It seems bad now, but the body has an amazing ability to recuperate all that shuteye you missed out on in the first 6 months. You’ve got the rest of your life to sleep. Your child will fit snugly in your arms for only a limited time.

3. There’s a special place in hell for people who hurt puppies and moms who judge other moms. Never forget that. To quote John 8:7 ~ “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”

(If this seems helpful to you, drop me a line. I’m full of insightful wisdom!)

And that’s why I’m happy to participate in the “Pampers: A Parent is Born” project. Pampers has joined with Mom Central to create insightful, community-driven tip sheets for new and expectant parents to download and share in their own mommy circles. As a mom, you inevitably find yourself filled with experience and knowledge that new parents need, and this is a wonderful opportunity to share valued information.

To join in the fun, simply visit Mom Central and share your number one parenting tip on one or both of the following subjects:

How to Cope with Going Back To Work: Ways mom can prepare for the big day and ways to soothe the unease.

Baby/Mommy Sleep Tips: Tips on helping both Baby and mom sleep through the night.

Pampers and Mom Central will be judging which tips to share with the new parent community and January 2010 will see the unveiling of the tips sheet online at http://www.pampers.ca/. Twenty-five randomly selected tips will receive a $20 gift card, while one grand prize winner will receive $500!

Here’s my best tip:

Sleep Tip: In good faith, I can’t take the credit for this one, as my darling husband came up with it all on his own – but I’d love to share. We had an ongoing problem with being able to put our then 14-month old to bed. No matter the routine – bath, snuggle time, reading, etc – he refused to go down until well after 10pm. We knew it was too late for a child his age, and tried sabotaging his naps, giving him warm milk – anything to make him sleepy. Finally, my husband reasoned that perhaps he didn’t want to go down because we weren’t going to sleep, and the prospect of missing out was too much to bear. So here’s what he did: before we put our son down to sleep at 8:30pm, we went in the hall and turned off all the lights. Then, after we put him down, we huddled in our room and pretended to be asleep. Through the monitor, we could hear him thumping around in his crib – but the darkness and silence seemed to fool him – he simply went to sleep! A bonus – my husband and I used that time to catch up, talk about our day, etc. After 10 minutes we resumed what we were doing and didn’t hear a peep out of him again. For the first week, we used this system, and it quickly became a tradition for my husband and me to huddle in the dark, chatting away. And now, even though we no longer need to impose a blackout to get our son to sleep, we still hold a quick “mommy and daddy time” conference for a few minutes after he goes to bed!

Fingers crossed :) Click here to enter your own special tip for new moms and moms-to-be! Contest ends December 10th. Good luck!