Pampers

Thank You, Mom.

August 21, 2016 By Lena 25 Comments

Today, I’m a little emotional.

As the 2016 Olympic Games come to a close, I’m thinking about the highlights from the Games. The women’s 4×100-metre freestyle relay team, including Penny Oleksiak, the 16-year-old sensation from Toronto. Brianne Theisen-Eaton and Andre De Grasse, more-than-ever household names thanks to their medal-winning performances. Olympic gold in high jump, individual trampoline, freestyle swimming and wrestling.
win It’s a great time to be Canadian.

I’m also thinking about the parents of Olympians. I’m thinking about the moms and dads who’ve supported our athletes in the pursuit of their dreams. I’m picturing the early morning practices and the late night physiotherapy sessions. I’m thinking about the fierce hugs and pep talks; the emotional words of encouragement, the calm words of comfort. I’m wondering how many times they waited by the phone for their child to call, saying they have safely arrived.

But that’s what parents do. It’s the job we signed up for. …

Babies 101: The Importance of Healthy Sleep.

July 5, 2016 By Lena 23 Comments

Last week, I shared information about my collaboration with P&G as they support Canadian athletes at the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Over the next two months, I’ll continue to spotlight Mark Oldershaw, a third generation Olympian, and his partnership with Pampers – the only brand I’ve never cheated on.

Today, I’m speaking to parents of little ones. We know that well-rested children learn more rapidly. Their attention, memory and decision-making abilities are all directly impacted by their sleep patterns; particularly, their ability to have an adequate night’s sleep.
Reid_arms In fact, well-rested children have improved hand-eye coordination, which impacts fine motor skills and development. Conversely, basic skills like crawling, walking, running, and climbing can be affected by lack of sleep. Children that are tired can be more irritable, hyperactive, and oppositional. Even more troubling? Behaviour problems have been linked to sleep deprivation. …

Ain’t No Party Like a #PampersParty!

October 14, 2014 By Lena

It’s such a pleasure to partner with brands that I’ve had a long-standing relationship with. Loyal readers of my blog will know that there is only ONE product that I’ve never dared to cheat on. Through thick and thin – lured by coupons, sales, or manufacturer claims of superiority – I simply haven’t wavered in my loyalty or trust. And, it happens to be a brand that I’ve used on the two individuals who matter most to me in life – my two boys.

The product is Pampers, of course.

And there’s no better time to grab a box or two: from October 10 –24, participating Loblaws and Real Canadian Superstores stores will offer fabulous promotions during their Baby Event! To celebrate the savings, gather your best shopping tips, grab your latest shopping list and come join us at the #PampersParty Twitter Party on Thursday, October 16 at 8:00pm EDT!
To make things more exciting – Canadians will have a chance to win fabulous prizes:

2 x Pampers Family Prize Pack – $500 in Pampers products from Swaddlers to Easy Ups
1 x Savvy Mom Style Prize – $100 Gift Card
5 x Baby Needs Prize Packs – $150 Pampers Package

Do you know someone who can use $500 in Pampers products? Sure, we all do! Be a great friend and RSVP for a chance to win BIG! Looking forward to partying with you! …

It’s a #PampersParty Twitter Party!

October 13, 2013 By Lena

The product is Pampers, of course.

And now, I’m happy to share news of the LARGEST innovation in the history of Pampers! After 50 years of caring for little ones, Pampers continues its commitment to making diapers and wipes that help support the happy, healthy development of every baby.

“Pampers set out to deliver meaningful innovation – in performance, design and aesthetics – across the entire line to fully meet the needs of every parent and baby that has ever used – or will ever use – a Pampers product. After interviewing nearly 9,000 moms, Pampers is excited to announce a superior diaper and the biggest innovation in the brands history!”

The new Pampers diapers are three times drier than ordinary diapers with up to 12 hours of overnight dryness protection, resulting in the best possible experience for babies. Another development – advanced comfort features for newborns, extending the Swaddlers you love into larger sizes – now size 5!

And there’s no better time to grab a box or two: To make shopping even more convenient, Loblaw is launching a new program perfect for moms – The Mommy of all Baby Events! From October 10 –24, Loblaw stores will offer fabulous promotions and events from cooking classes, dietitian demos, special sales and fun contests. Check out your local Loblaw store to find out more, or go to themommyofallbabyevents.ca.

To kick off the launch of Loblaws’ The Mommy of all Baby Events, share your shopping secrets and learn a few great tips with #PampersMom @jessicamulroney at the #PampersParty Twitter Party on Wednesday, October 16 at 9pm. Our party will highlight how to maximize time with loved ones by being a smart mommy shopper. Jessica will also share her shopping tips and insight into her life as a Pampers mom of three!

To make things more exciting – you’ll have the chance to win fabulous prizes courtesy of Pampers and Loblaws:

2 x Pampers Family Prize Pack – $500 in Pampers products from Swaddlers to Easy Ups (Grand Prizes)
1 x Savvy Mom Style Prize – $100 Joe Fresh Gift Card
5 x Baby Needs Prize Packs – $150 Pampers & Loblaws Package

Do you know someone who can use $500 in Pampers products? Sure, we all do! Be a great friend and RSVP for a chance to win BIG! Looking forward to partying with you!…

From Pampers to Prada.

February 24, 2013 By Lena

I’ve been in a relationship for almost five years now. At first, it was just an exclusive kind of thing… but then, for a short period of time, I actually had two to contend with. And let me tell you, when you’re going at it two at a time, sometimes, it’s overwhelming.

Of course that only lasted for a few months; the first outgrew it – or rather, I forced a full breakup. You see, we both needed our freedom.

So I was left with just one – back in my comfort zone, if you will. And now, after two and a half years, it looks like I’ll finally be done. I’ll finally be free.

Our home is about to become Pampers-less.

Truthfully? It’s mostly awesome, but also kind of bittersweet. No more diapers means that I officially no longer have babies in my household. Those tender moments – changing a diaper in the middle of the night before a feeding, gently applying cream to those oh-so-soft cheeks – will be replaced with hollers of “Come wipe my bum!” and “Look at this one, it takes up the whole toilet!”

Right.
Splendid.

And so with Reid’s potty training officially underway, I began reminiscing about my relationship with Pampers. Truthfully, in terms of products, it has likely been the most long-lasting, trusted relationship that I’ve had. From the very first hour of their lives, both Ryder and Reid’s sweet little bottoms were coddled with Swaddlers. Through the months that followed, I’ve believed in Pampers’ ability to keep their delicate skin soft and dry; to take them through the night with comfort; and to keep their business contained in the diapers… and off my very expensive leather sectional.

Will it feel strange to not see the familiar green Baby Dry box in the corner of Reid’s room?
Will I miss scanning the flyers for sales, clipping coupons and inputting Gifts to Grow Points?

I’ll never forget the first few moments of Ryder’s life. After enduring over 30 hours of labour and a natural childbirth (someone told me that us “au naturel” mamas have bragging rights for the rest of our lives) I was understandably exhausted. As my head rolled to the side of my hospital bed, I saw the most enduring thing – the nurse showing my husband how to properly diaper Ryder.

And I thought, “Phew. Maybe he can show me how to do it later.”
And I remember feeling a little bit vulnerable, because Ryder was swimming in his newborn diaper.
And I thought, “What have I done?”

Husband went on to be a champion diaper-changer, and I’m still convinced the nurse showed him a critical technique that allows him to consistently have the best time….

Pampers Gifts to Grow… Winners!

March 8, 2011 By Lena

Thanks to everyone who entered the Lena Loves… Pampers Gifts to Grow Rewards giveaway. First, I must apologize for my tardiness in posting the results – as mentioned one post below, life has been very hectic! But I’m happy to share some very good news with six (6) lucky winners!

All winners were drawn using Random.org; however, as I don’t want to pollute the esthetics of my blog with a bunch of widget snapshots, you’ll just have to trust me sight unseen. (Please send me an e-mail if you’d like a copy of the winning widgets – I’ll keep them on file for 7 days.)

First up, the GRAND PRIZE: a Gifts to Grow Unsung Heroes prize pack, including a diaper bag autographed by Bethenny Frankel, a package of Pampers diapers, and a Magnetic Tabletop Easel from Alex Toys (just one of the many fabulous rewards you can grab with your points!)

And the winner is… #48 KainsHottie! Congratulations!

Five (5) runners up will receive a Liz Lange diaper clutch, also courtesy of Pampers! And the winners are…

#92 mrsking14
#94 The Palmer Fam
#149 rbailey1958
#233 AmyLynn
#334 esluka

Congratulations all! Please send me an e-mail with your contact details, so that I may have the prize sent to your right away. Thanks again to everyone who participated, and to Pampers!

Lena Loves… Pampers Gifts to Grow Rewards

February 1, 2011 By Lena

If you’re a new parent, chances are your little one is in Pampers. Chances are even better that you collect Gifts to Grow rewards points. And if you don’t, I have two words for you:

Tisk. Tisk.

It’s okay, I was once there too. After Ryder was born, I fecklessly through away several packages of diapers – noting the little bar code stickers inside but not giving them much thought. It was only after a night of complete baby-induced insomnia that I actually looked up what “Gifts to Grow” points were all about. Then I quickly did the math; Ryder was destined to be in diapers for at least two years (ahem, going on three) and therefore, there were ample points to collect over the years. And ample points mean ample rewards!

In the past year, I’ve redeemed points for a gift card, trio of baby books, building blocks and even taken my chances in a draw for a year’s worth of Pampers diapers and wipes. And now, I’m THIS CLOSE to grabbing the Radio Flyer Big Flyer! Ryder will have the coolest big wheel on the block!

This year, Pampers has teamed up with celebrity mom Bethenny Frankel to celebrate all the wonderful things parents do each day for their babies and families that make them real, Unsung Heroes! Recognizing parents for all their hard work and dedication to their family, Pampers is unveiling a new year of gifts, incentives and rewards from their Gifts to Grow catalog that families can earn by purchasing Pampers branded products.

“To kick off a new year of Gifts to Grow and celebrate parents everywhere, Pampers and Frankel launched a Facebook contest and other activities to award parents for all they do each and every day. Parents can now visit the Pampers Facebook page to nominate a friend, family member or even themselves to be recognized as a real “Unsung Hero”. Parents will also be able to receive special incentives and rewards from Gifts to Grow, as well as enter to win a signed diaper bag from Frankel.”

Here’s a quick video of Bethenny chatting about Unsung Heroes:

http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/mnr_lib/201002/players/player-single.swf?job=48084

If you currently collect Gifts to Grow points – congratulations! You’re one step closer to claiming wonderful rewards for your child – or yourself (you unsung hero, you!)

And for all others, what are you waiting for? It’s time to be rewarded for all that you do, including the numerous (and often, unending) diaper changes. To learn more about Pampers Gifts to Grow, please visit www.pampers.com.

Pampers has generously offered one Listen to Lena! reader the chance to win a Gifts to Grow Unsung Heroes prize pack, including a diaper bag autographed by Bethenny Frankel, a package of Pampers diapers, and a Magnetic Tabletop Easel from Alex Toys (just one of the many fabulous rewards you can grab with your points!)

Five (5) runners up will receive a Liz Lange diaper clutch, also courtesy of Pampers!

To enter, simply visit Gifts to Grow and leave a comment telling us about a favourite reward you’ve collected, or a reward you would like to redeem your points for.

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

(1) For an extra entry, follow my blog, Listen to Lena!
(2) “Like” Listen to Lena! on Facebook
(2) “Like” Pampers on Facebook
(3) Follow Pampers on Twitter
(4) Tweet about this giveaway (here’s a tiny URL for you: http://tinyurl.com/4cls5x2)
(5) You may tweet about this giveaway daily

I’ll draw for a winner on March 1st. Special thanks to Pampers, and good luck everyone!

Pampers Twitter “Shower!”

December 14, 2010 By Lena

For those Tweetin’ Mamas who LOVE Pampers as much as I do, tune in for a “Twitter Shower” tomorrow night (Tuesday, December 14th) at 7pm EST.

“We’re looking for expectant parents, family members and friends helping gear up a soon-to-be-mom to join us alongside co-host, Party Stylist Amy Belle Isle (of StemParties and OperationShower) for a Twitter Shower on Tuesday, December 14th. Participants will be privy to creative tips on preparing for a baby shower and parenthood debut, but we also want to hear your personal baby shower and registry must-knows!“

Date: Thursday, December 14th, 2010
Time: 4-5pm PST (7-8pm EST)
Hashtag: #MyBabyRegistry
Host: @TwitterMoms
Co-Host: @operationshower
Sponsor: @pampers

A little bird told me that it’ll be tons of fun with GREAT PRIZES to be won (including Pampers prize packs and iPods!), and participants will be provided a special Pampers “Gifts to Grow” coupon code for joining. Mark your calendars!

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!