review

Your Summer Family Destination: Niagara-on-the-Lake!

July 9, 2018 By Lena 20 Comments

My husband and I celebrated our 11th wedding anniversary this past weekend! I’d say that time flies but it feels like an understatement; somewhere along the way we collected a couple of kids, a home or two, and hundreds (thousands?) of incredible memories I’ll always hold dear.

Last year, for our 10th, we returned to Niagara-on-the-Lake where we were married. At the time, we couldn’t envision making the destination “family friendly” – but perhaps that’s just because all our memories tied to region were pre-kids. However, when invited to check out a new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’s The Magician’s Nephew at The Shaw Festival, and scanning over a masterfully-planned itinerary, we quickly realized that we can enjoy our favourite getaway as a family! Here’s how to spend a magical weekend in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
1. What to Do: See The Magician’s Nephew by Michael O’Brien.

The synopsis:

“Tricked into using his Uncle Andrew’s (Steven Sutcliffe) enchanted rings, young Digory (Travis Seetoo) and his new friend Polly (Vanessa Sears) stumble into a magical portal that takes them to other worlds. Before returning home to Victorian London, they travel to the desolate world of Charn and unwittingly unleash Queen Jadis (Deborah Hay), a malevolent sorceress bent on domination. With the assistance of Aslan (Kyle Blair), Digory must undertake a valiant quest to the mysterious locked garden that holds the key to defeating evil and defending the new world of Narnia.” …

A Cleaner Dishwasher? Now THAT’s Affresh!

April 2, 2016 By Lena

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_0185b The 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. …

Master the Art of Nude.

July 17, 2015 By Lena

Have you ever wondered why some women have eyes that “pop”? They’re bright, well-defined and expressive…. and sometimes, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what their secret is. A skilled makeup application? A teeny bit of Botox? Gasp – full blown plastic surgery?

It’s that je ne said quoi, n’est-ce pas?

I won’t keep you in suspense. You see, some women have simply mastered the art of nude.
Introducing L’Oreal Colour Riche La Palette Nude 2. Inspired by makeup designers’ ‘Must Have’ palettes, the La Palette Nude 2 offers everything you need to master the art of nude eye shadow. Ten highly pigmented shades range from light to dark to flatter every skin tone in three shadow finishes: shimmery satin, buttery matte & lustrous sheen. …

Things You Think You Don’t Need but Trust Me You Really Do

June 1, 2015 By Lena

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

I’m going to file this one under: “Things you think you don’t need but trust me you really do and I’m about to tell you why.” << And then you’ll thank me.

First, an ode to the shower.

Ah, the shower. Twenty minutes of uninterrupted, blissful relaxation coupled with sweet-smelling body wash and the permission to daydream. Hey moms – you know that point where you discover that your kids will actually be okay if you close the door and enjoy a long, hot shower? And like, when you get out, you may have to deal with a minor LEGO explosion or find a kid pressed up against the TV, but hell, it’s still so worth it?

I have arrived. And I’ve earned my shower time.

This is a totally true story and illustrates perfectly just how much I enjoy a good shower. Reid, bless his kindergarten-aged heart, created a Mother’s Day “card” for me (air quotes because it didn’t fold and had weird holes and pieces of scotch tape all over it). Students were asked to say nice things about mommy – and there was even a section for mommy’s favourite thing to do.
image1 (2) See? Apparently, all those things I thought I loved (sandy beaches, venti frappuccinos, etc) pale in comparison to my one true passion in life – taking a shower.

(I wonder what his poor teacher thought as she read through his work. Dear teacher, have you ever noticed how clean my skin is? All that showering, natch.)

Now that we’ve established my hidden desire for extended H2O therapy, next, here’s a crash course in Delta Temp2O Technology.

The Delta Temp2O Technology hand showers, showerheads, and tub and shower fixtures take the guesswork out of water temperature, preventing unwanted surprises – especially useful when bathing children. Each product includes an easy-to-read LED digital display and background colour indicators (blue, magenta, red) to signal different water temperature ranges. …

Protect Yourself! WIN a Fellowes Powershred 63cb Shredder

April 15, 2015 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

It’s annual. It’s unavoidable. And sometimes, it’s a pain in the behind. It’s tax season.

If you’ve already completed your 2014 income tax return, congratulations! Hopefully by now you’re enjoying your refund, or have paid the amount owing and put it out of your mind. And if you’ve yet to file your taxes… two weeks, friends! The deadline is in two weeks.

Of course, you may have a small reminder of tax season… papers, documents, receipts, invoices, agreements…. and what should you do with it all? If your gut reaction is simply to throw it in the trash, STOP! You may be putting yourself at risk for identity theft.

The answer? Shred, shred, shred.

I’m once again pleased to partner with Fellowes Canada, the global leader in paper shredder design and engineering, providing the highest quality personal and general office business shredders on the market. With their innovative “Jam Blocker” technology and Energy Savings System, they’ve earned a reputation as the “World’s Toughest Shredders”.

Now y’all know I love my Fellowes Powershred 63cb Cross-Cut Shredder; it’s a staple in my home office. Features:

– Jam Blocker blocks jams before they start
– SafeSense Technology stops shredding when hands touch the paper opening
– Energy Savings System provides optimal energy efficiency 100% of the time – in use and out of use
– Shreds 10 sheets per pass into 5/32”x 2” cross-cut particles (Security Level 3)
– Shreds for up to 8 minutes before a 20 minute cool down period
– One year product warranty and five year cutter warranty

I’ll never tire of saying this: every home needs a shredder. And Fellowes makes it easy and affordable to safely dispose of all your personal records, thereby reducing the chances of being a victim of identity theft. Every tax season, I put the shredder to the test with a whole year’s worth of statements and receipts. I’ve shredded old credit cards. I’ve shredded documents with staples and paper clips. I’ve even shredded CDs – yes, CDs! …

Believe in Miracles

March 3, 2015 By Lena

From time to time, I think about my shopping habits. (Usually, after I receive my VISA statement). And I think about what motivates my shopping behaviour; what drives my purchase decisions?

A t-shirt from a trendy clothing company. A designer pair of flats. Four pairs of bohemian-chic earrings from an accessories store that I totally didn’t need, but, SALE.

And I’ve been able to sum up that the single most important motivating factor for me is word of mouth recommendations. Be it a casual mention from a girlfriend, an Instagramed endorsement from a celebrity I adore, or even a texted thumbs up from a close associate – when I hear good things about a product, place or person, I am more likely to take the advice of someone I trust.

And y’all trust me, right?

It all started two weeks ago when Elaine covered the Garnier Miracle Hotel for my blog. Besides indulging at the Trump International Hotel in Toronto and sharing her thoughts on Garnier Ultra-Lift Miracle Sleeping Cream, she had one bit of advice for me: Try the cream. It’s that good.

So, never one to take a friend’s endorsement lightly, I did. And I LOVE it.
packshot_ENG Garnier’s NEW Ultra-Lift Miracle Sleeping Night Cream is pretty revolutionary – it’s the first night cream of its kind to deliver results from your first overnight use and continues to improve the look of your skin over time. You can expect to wake up to smoother, rested-looking skin that will have you believing miracles do happen overnight!

I began seeing results after the first night of use. Truly! Upon awakening, my skin looked fresher, younger and was intensely hydrated – almost as if it had been wrapped in velvet. The cream contains seven active ingredients that are powerful alone – and transformative together – such as Hyaluronic acid, LHA and Lavender Essential Oil.

(The Miracle Sleeping Night Cream also has a pleasant fragrance, which we all know is right up there on my list of “must-haves”.) …

Your Next Microwave

March 3, 2015 By Lena

It’s not the sexiest purchase you’ll ever make.

Heck, it’s not like you’ll tell your husband this weekend, “Let’s go look at some microwaves!” And when you do buy one, you may not have been anticipating the purchase – often, the only time one shops for a new microwave is when they have to suddenly replace or upgrade their current model.

However, at some point in your lifetime – maybe even sooner than you think – it will be time to buy a new microwave. And today, I’m here to introduce you to your next microwave.
It’s funny. Before I fell in love with my Panasonic Genius Prestige Plus Over-the-Range Microwave Oven, I didn’t give the appliance the respect it deserves, nor did I try to be particularly creative or daring in the foods I prepared. In fact, for the most part, my prior relationship with a microwave included the one and only “reheat” function.

FYI: It would be a shame to only reheat in a Microwave with Inverter Technology.

Oh, you can reheat. But you can also select from one of nineteen cooking settings, or let the microwave do the thinking for you. With Sensor Cook, built-in sensor technology lets you cook food automatically – with no need to set the power level, food weight or cooking time.

Did I just blow your mind? …

Just Call Me Ms. Diaz

March 1, 2015 By Lena

Er… or maybe Mrs. Madden. Cameron Diaz is married now, yes?

Nevertheless, I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m obsessed with Cameron’s… everything.

Her style! Her hair! Her effortless way of exuding the perfect California beach babe. And through it all, remaining likable to both males (duh) and females alike. I mean, can anyone really hate on Cameron Diaz? She’s like the dream BFF (no offense to my BFF).

So it’s obvious that when I watched her performance in 2014’s The Other Woman, I instantly fell in love with her all over again. Of course, it *may* have had something to do with the fact that her character boasted the hottest collection of designer outfits and accessories – I’m talking drool-worthy with a capital D.

At the top of my list – her statement sunglasses from Saint Laurent, aptly named “BOLD1”. These YSL beauties are coveted for their classical look with a hint of modern styling, and although they are often listed as men’s sunglasses, they are striking on women as well.
The only problem? Finding them online was a chore, and when I did, they retailed for $345.00 USD. That’s over $430 Canadian! And while I’d be happy to spend that on a pair of sunnies I loved, I happen to own a lot of sunnies. So it just wasn’t in the cards.

Enter SmartBuyGlasses.ca. They afforded me the opportunity to review the site, and of course the very first thing I did was hunt down the Saint Laurent glasses. And not only did I find them; I found them for just $233.95 CDN with fast and FREE shipping. Hello! …

Can You Fake a Good Night’s Sleep?

February 17, 2015 By Lena

As a mom of two young boys, I have only one answer… I WISH!

While sleep is a necessity, a good night’s sleep is a luxury ’round here. I mean really, does any mom actually sleep well? I’d like to meet her and shake her hand! (And, maybe, swap families with her.) Hence, when I was invited by the good folks at Garnier to indulge in a good night’s sleep at the Garnier Miracle Hotel, I was immeasurably excited.

Until I realized that I’d be in Orlando, juggling work, family and roller coasters – ergo, likely not getting any sleep at all.

So I did the next best thing – I bestowed the gift of a good night’s sleep to Elaine Atkins of Toronto Beauty Reviews, and asked her to report back on her experience at this exclusive, widely coveted event. Take it away Elaine!
B9r7RRgCEAIj9xp Are you always chasing a good night’s sleep? As we age and lead busier and busier lives (think work, social obligations, kids, and even household chores) we lose a little bit of quality sleep with each new task we take on.

I was invited to check into the Garnier Miracle Hotel to help me get that rest that I so desperately needed. So, where is this mysterious Garnier Miracle Hotel, you ask? It’s none other than the Trump International Hotel in Toronto, decked out by the Garnier Canada team. …

It’s Always a Party! Introducing the Kettle Style Popcorn Popper!

February 15, 2015 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Salty, savoury popcorn with a sharp burst of cheesy goodness and a mild, Italian herb flavour. Do not adjust your computer monitor. You HAVE just stumbled on the perfect popcorn, popped in the perfect popcorn popper.
Now I’m not one to mince words, so I’m just going to come out and say it. You need the Hamilton Beach Kettle Style Popcorn Popper in your life. You need it like meat needs salt. Like apple pie needs cinnamon. Like Kanye West needs an awards show. And once you have it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Introducing… the very best small appliance for every popcorn lover you know.
Yeah, that’s it right there. Kind of looks space age, doesn’t it? But whether it’s a date night in or a movie-watching party with friends and family, this popper delivers. Enjoy hot and delicious theater-style popcorn that can be prepared and served right in the same bowl! Simply measure your oil and kernels into the popping chamber and turn it on. (I swear, that’s all there is to it.) When the popping slows down to two seconds between pops, your popcorn is ready to eat.

Even better? The Kettle Style Popcorn Popper is dishwasher safe, and the top and bottom nest for space-saving storage. Plus, you can pop up to 24 cups per cycle, so your family is never left waiting for more. It’s actually kind of perfect. …

Spring Cleaning? Pfft. Try Spot Cleaning.

June 4, 2014 By Lena

Take a look around. Spring is officially on its way out, and we’re making way for warmer weather, longer days and starry nights. So… did you finish your spring cleaning?

I say forget about it. I mean, is there *really* an advantage to completely disrupting your entire household… when you know it’s just going to get messy again anyways? Come on, I have two school aged boys. They have literally made it their mission to turn my house into a combat zone – complete with mine traps (errant diecast cars), artillery (any toy longer than 12 inches) and water torture (the bathroom after a bath).

UGH! I have two choices: spend my life cleaning… or learn how to spot clean.

Spot cleaning is the equivalent of cramming for a final exam – appearing like you have sh*t together, when really, you attempt to fake a season’s worth of work (or in this case, cleaning) into one intense session. But you know what? It works nine times out of ten if you have the right tools.

Introducing the Dyson Digital Slim DC62 cordless vacuum cleaner.

Dyson Digital Slim copy Simply stated, it is the most powerful cordless vacuum on the market, made possible by a combination of the Dyson digital motor V6, 2 Tier Radial cyclones and a re-engineered nickel manganese cobalt battery. Translation: it sucks up as much dust as a corded vacuum, without the bulk or inconvenience.

Now we all know that normally, Lena + Cleaning = Avoidance. However, I’m proud to say that the Dyson DC62 has revolutionized my viewpoint on the subject. Think about it: having a powerful, light and easy-to-manoeuvre vacuum at your disposal makes even the most arduous tasks seem like a piece of cake. A re-engineered floor tool with stiff nylon bristles dislodge ground-in dirt from carpets, while anti-static soft carbon fibre filaments gently remove fine dust from hard floors. And because the DC62’s centre of gravity is located near the grip, the unit is very easy to lift. This means that the top of your fridge, ceiling corners and the spaces between stair spindles will finally see some love.

All DC62 Vacuums Have:

Extra tools: All Dyson vacuums come with Dyson-engineered tools for cleaning hard to reach places.
Hygienic bin emptying: Just push the button to release the dirt. No more bags!
Convenient docking station: Stores and charges the machine, and holds additional attachments.
Boost mode: 6 minutes of increased suction power – for more difficult tasks. (We call it “Beast Mode”)
26 minutes of cleaning time: A re-engineered nickel manganese cobalt battery and run-time enhancing trigger.
2 year warranty: All Dyson cordless vacuums come with a 2 year warranty – parts and labour.

But if I had to single out the most important feature of the Dyson DC62, it’s that it excels at SCCA (Spot Cleaning: Crisis Aversion). That’s right – for every woman out there who is not quite Suzy Homemaker, here’s how to “cram” with the Dyson Digital Slim DC62. …

Bad Hair Day? Yeah, Me Too.

May 19, 2014 By Lena

The first time it happened, I was 21 years old. Having just been dumped by my high school sweetheart, I was understandably under a *little* stress. What is it about heartache that causes your body to fall apart? I lost 5 pounds without trying, stopped enjoying just about everything in life, and had trouble concentrating on even the most simple tasks. And I suppose I could have soldiered on, except for one thing: my hair was falling out.

Nioxin 1 (Seriously? I was just dumped by the supposed love of my life… and was rewarded with a bald spot?)

I should have known that I wouldn’t be able to escape the breakup unscathed – after all, it’s a widely known fact that stress can cause significant hair loss. But why?

“Typically, people shed about 100 hairs a day,” says Carolyn Jacob, MD. “Most people don’t even notice.” Sometimes, a significant stress of some sort may spark a change in your body’s routine physiological functions, and cause a disproportionate number of hairs to go into the resting phase at the same time. Then three to four months later, sometimes longer, all those resting hairs are shed. The effect can be alarming. The types of events that disrupt the normal hair cycle, Jacob says, can be caused by the substantial physiological stresses on your body.
– Source

Okay, so we’ve established that I was under physiological stress. Break ups suck! But while complaining to my then-stylist about my thinning hair, she suggested the NIOXIN system of products. Fair warning: they weren’t as sexy as they are now. Packaged in a brown bottle with a similarly forgettable scent and consistency, I figured something so blah had to work, as it wasn’t trussed up in sweet-smelling peachy commercialism. And you know what? It did work. With consistent use over a few months, and a heart on the mend, I started to feel my hair return to its natural texture and density.

Nioxin 2 The second time it happened, I was 26 years old… and it was yet again after a breakup. Honestly! Four years with a guy who couldn’t commit, and my perky, bouncy hair started falling out in chunks. I had flashbacks of my first battle of the bald spot – and was ready to swear off men for good – when I remembered NIOXIN. The packaging had changed, but the results were the same: a noticeable decrease in hair loss after 3-4 weeks, and after 2-3 months, thicker, healthier hair.

So what’s the deal with NIOXIN?

The NIOXIN approach began in 1987, when the founder experienced thinning hair and began to investigate the idea of treating the scalp with skincare methods. NIOXIN uses advanced technologies to deliver thicker, fuller, denser-looking hair. The three parts of each NIOXIN system – cleanse, optimise and treat – work together to help create an optimal scalp environment.

Today, my hair is thinning – and I can’t blame it on a break up. That’s right, good ol’ genetics, hormones and age – combined with a handful of medications – have started their assault on my naturally fine hair, making it lack body, lustre and strength. As a P&G Mom, I had the awesome opportunity to visit a NIOXIN salon – P&H Salon in Toronto. There, the talented Fabrizio (call him! He’s fab – pun intended) took me through the ins and outs of the NIOXIN system, and we settled on the correct one for my hair type (System 3) and what to expect. …

Scruff or Suave? The Battle of the Babes

May 11, 2014 By Lena

Generally speaking, there are two categories of women: those who like men with a little scruff, and those who don’t.

Me – well, let’s just say I’m a switch hitter, because truly, I can go both ways. (Side note: are goatees still popular? It’s been a while since I’ve seen a guy sport one.) I mean, there are advantages to both – scruffy guys tend to look more manly, with a devil-may-care attitude; suave guys show that a little personal grooming goes a long way, and, you don’t have to endure beard-burn during an epic make out session.

Now, it’s a tough job but *someone* had to do it: research the internet for “scruffy celebrity hotties”. Can you guess who made the top of the list? Did you know that “Somerhalder” means the incredibly hot one in Latin? Okay I’m just pulling your leg. Or not. Cause he’s incredibly hot, obvi (fanning myself in a dramatic fashion).

Ian Somerhalder Alas, if I have to make a choice, I do prefer a clean-shaven man. I find it sexy, sophisticated and most of all, a sign of impeccable grooming. And I’m not alone: a study, which was published in the journal Behavioral Ecology, queried women from New Zealand and Canada to determine their preferences on men’s facial hair. Over 200 women were presented with pictures of clean-shaven and bearded men. The results showed that women found the clean-shaven men significantly more attractive.

Okay, so I’ve hardly made it fair for men by using Brad Pitt as the poster child for a clean-shaven dude. And, if I’m telling the truth, in a Brad Pitt – Ian Somerhalder showdown, I don’t want to be making a judgement on the level of desirability. Still, I have to give ol’ Brad the edge – and extra points for a kissably soft cheek.

My husband? He’s on Team Suave, thanks to the Braun °CoolTec shaver. The Braun °CoolTec is the world’s first dry shaver that’s engineered to deliver the leading shaving performance you expect from Braun whilst creating a noticeable reduction in the signs of shaving irritation including burning, itching, redness, skin tension and warmth. …

Hello! It’s My Latest Obsession

May 6, 2014 By Lena

*UPDATE* Hello! My super-sleuthy friend @ShopWithRobin just happened to spot Hello Oral Care products at Target – a Canadian Target, that is! So of course I booted it to my local store, and ta-da! Found my very favourite toothpaste ever. Picked up a tube of Mojito Mint, made my way home, and immediately brushed my teeth. BLISS.

Hello Products Hence, I decided to bump this post from last August, to remind y’all why you need to seek out this product as soon as possible. (And, to be honest, I also wanted to brag about the amazing $24.99 Marshall’s dress again. I haven’t worn it since! Will have to remedy that when – if? – summer finally arrives.) Read on!

It just occurred to me that I COMPLETELY forgot to mention that I was in Chicago last week for BlogHer ’13. Surprise! Apparently, I am able to attend a conference without moaning about what to wear beforehand.

However, since it wouldn’t be a Listen to Lena post without me ~~bragging~~ casually mentioning the great deal I scored on an outfit, here it is – my very first selfie. Yep! That’s me – selfie posing in the hotel bathroom. And therein lies the reason I don’t selfie more often; I kind of suck at it.

Regardless, the point is to model my maxi dress from Marshall’s, which I paid a cool $24.99 for, marked down from $59.99. I instantly fell in love with the breezy, tropical print (even though the weather in Chicago last week was decidedly UN-trocipal… brrr!). I have a feeling that this dress will be recycled on a future beach getaway. (And now, to plan the beach getaway.)

Okay, I’m really getting off topic. So here’s the scoop. At BlogHer ’13 last week, in addition to having the opportunity to connect with colleagues and learn from the best in our business, we were also treated to a plethora of swag at both the exhibitor hall and private parties. Now for every blogger who’ll write an inspirational post about the conference being more than just free stuff (and truly, it is), the fact is that swag and blogging conferences go hand in hand. And from our hands, the swag goes into our suitcases, where we pray that customs officials will waive us through and not flag us for closer inspection. (“I have no idea why I’m bringing home sixteen moisturizers and four bags of granola, no sir, officer, sir.”)

Now I’m certain that the reason we’re bestowed with all these goodies is the chance that we may choose to review, share, or otherwise endorse the products. However, since I have no shortage of blog posts to write without looking for work, I rarely mention the promos and samples that are stuffed into swag bags and doled out by exhibitors. Until now.

I think I’ve found my latest obsession. Nestled deep within a press bag from Walgreen’s – Hello Mojito Mint Toothpaste.

“Hello is a brand of seriously friendly oral care products. The line currently includes a range of 99% natural toothpastes, mouthwashes, and breath sprays in delicious flavors and beautiful packages, as well as a toothbrush made with biodegradable corn resin and recycled plastic.”

At this point, if you’re scratching your head and asking yourself, “Is Lena really raving about a toothpaste? What’s the big deal? It’s just toothpaste.” Back up there sweetheart! This just happens to be the BEST toothpaste I’ve ever had the pleasure of cleaning my teeth with. First, the flavour is DIVINE. Fresh mint with just a hint of lime which gives it an interesting edge. Kind of like meeting Alejandro by the pool on your Cancun vacation, wink. Second, my mouth feels incredibly invigorated after using the product. Without a word of lie, I’ve been finding excuses to brush my teeth! And third, I love that the formula is 99% natural with no harsh chemicals or artificial colors. Take THAT commercial toothpaste. Hello toothpaste is my latest obsession!

Game On: Nintendo 2DS #Giveaway

April 22, 2014 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Years ago, when I first became a mom, I had an idealist view of how I would parent – and how my boys would flourish and grow. I’ll make their baby food from scratch! I promised. No television for my boys! I declared. And the kicker – They’ll never, ever be caught with those dreadful handheld gaming devices!

Well, I didn’t make baby food from scratch. And Lord knows I can sing the theme song from almost every Disney Junior show, so there’s that. But I held out on avoiding video game systems for as long as possible, wrongfully assuming that every child who encounters them instantly becomes addicted. Not true at all.

In fact, I found that introducing my boys to the Nintendo 3DS XL has had a very positive effect on their cognitive skills, such as spatial navigation, reasoning, memory and perception. Additionally, I’ve absolutely seen an improvement in their social skills, like sharing, compromise and offering encouragement (although we do have a tug-of-war over the device from time to time, but they’re siblings and it’s to be expected). All in all, you could say that my opinion of handheld gaming systems has changed incredibly over the past few months.

So what’s all the fuss about? The Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 3DS XL systems feature a stereoscopic 3D display on the upper screen to give objects within the game world a feeling of space and depth. It becomes easier to see the position of characters and obstacles, making many game experiences even more intuitive for all types of players.

(Since the boys are still young, we disable the 3D effect thanks to a built-in 3D Depth Slider, which allows us to adjust the intensity of the 3D settings on the Nintendo 3DS system.)

Of course, one feature we haven’t tried and are eager to as the boys grow: the Nintendo 3DS and Nintendo 3DS XL systems can take photos in 3D. Capture eye-popping images of friends and family, have fun with filters like the Merge lens, or even use the system’s AR technology and included AR Cards to make Mii characters and Nintendo heroes appear in the real world. Très cool! …

The Reviews Are In; Mandarin Burst is a MUST

April 19, 2014 By Lena

A few weeks ago, I extended a very special invitation to twenty lucky readers: a chance to experience the sweet, tantalizing aroma of Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst Shave Gel.

With a refreshing citrusy fragrance, the ultra-moisturizing gel provides a combination of aromatic scent and hydrating properties – perfect for warming and smoothing through neglected, rough ‘winter skin’. With six moisturizers, including antioxidant Vitamin E and Olive Butter, Mandarin Burst helps replenish your skin’s natural moisture and maintain healthy skin, all while providing an invigorating, spirit-lifting shave.

For my part, I adore this shave gel. With its lighter-than air texture and sweetly perfumed foam, the ritual belonging to Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst has just as much pleasure as peeling a perfectly ripe mandarin orange. After shaving, my legs are noticeably moisturized and seductively smooth, with a fragrance that lingers on for hours. But am I alone in my admiration? Not a chance.

Here’s a small excerpt from the reader reviews:

A special thank you to all the readers who provided their insight, enthusiastic thumbs up and thoughtful feedback. I can assure you that all reviews have been sent to Skintimate for their consideration. Finally, reviewers who sent in their testimonial were entered to win a $100 Visa Gift Card. And the winner is… Gizele! Congratulations!

With Spring (finally) here – though I’m afraid to jinx it if I talk too much – it’s time to bring the refreshing citrusy fragrance of mandarin oranges, lemons and limes to your shower with Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst Shave Gel. Put your best legs forward; visit skintimate.ca.

Rate and Review: Must-Have Mandarin

March 5, 2014 By Lena

There are few greater pleasures in life than sinking your thumbnail into the supple skin of a mandarin orange.

First, one must exert just the right amount of pressure while digging through the peel to avoid piercing the delicate flesh below. Then, as you pull back, the sweet, tangy, incredibly vital aroma hits you at once, sending a burst of citrus fragrance into the air as it sprays from the juicy fruit. You try to keep the peel intact as your hands swirl around the delicate, spherical fruit, poking and prodding as you work. Finally, you’re left with sweet, segmented perfection: an invigorating experience that is a ritual unto itself.

This spring, bring the refreshing citrusy fragrance of mandarin oranges, lemons and limes to your shower with Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst Shave Gel.

The ultra-moisturizing gel provides a combination of aromatic scent and hydrating properties – perfect for warming and smoothing through neglected, rough ‘winter skin’. With six moisturizers, including antioxidant Vitamin E and Olive Butter, Mandarin Burst will help replenish your skin’s natural moisture and maintain healthy and beautiful skin, all while providing an invigorating, spirit-lifting shave.

Perspective: It’s a shave gel, and its very existence is rooted in performing one of the most hated duties known to womankind. However, with its lighter-than air texture and sweetly perfumed foam that permeates seductively through a steamy bathroom, the ritual belonging to Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst has just as much pleasure as peeling a perfectly ripe mandarin orange. After shaving, the fragrance lingers on as legs are smooth, supple and come-nuzzle-me perfect.

Ready to experience the tantalizing aroma of Skintimate Signature Scents Mandarin Burst Shave Gel? I’m looking for twenty (20) readers who would like rate and review the product. I’ll randomly select 20 readers tomorrow night – and, to thank you for your honest feedback, one lucky participant will win a $100 Visa Gift Card. Good luck, and thanks for your interest!

Put your best legs forward; visit skintimate.ca.

It’s a ROAR! T-REX Cafe in Orlando, Florida

January 13, 2014 By Lena

With so many friends and family escaping the cold this winter, I’m often asked for dining suggestions in Orlando, Florida. Now normally, if you’re staying at the Walt Disney World Resort, I’d say just break bread at one of their fabulous, kid-friendly restaurants. They have a variety of themes and cuisines to suit every taste, and in fact are very reasonably priced for families of four.

(If you’re on a budget, you can try the quick-service restaurants – however, while easy on the wallet, they’re not-so-easy on the waistline, offering heavily greasy, heavily portioned food.)

Of course, whether you’re staying on- or off-resort, there’s one dining option that is always a treat for the whole family: T-REX Cafe in Downtown Disney.

I had the pleasure of visiting T-REX Cafe last year during a Visit Orlando media trip, and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience from start to finish. However, it occurred to me this morning that for all the times I’ve recommended the restaurant to family and friends, I haven’t written an official review! But first –

Why It’s a ROAR:

1) Squawking pterosaurs, wooly mammoths, a massive undulating octopus and life-sized animatronic dinosaurs – including a 15-foot-tall T. Rex – make for a roaring good time.

2) Dine on family-friendly American favorites beneath luminescent jellyfish or inside the midsection of a triceratops! Every 20 minutes or so, witness a meteor shower complete with rumbling and fiery “explosions.”

3) From salads to steaks, tear into tasty tectonic plates that every creature in your family will enjoy. Brought to you by the same folks behind Rainforest Café, T-REX features family-friendly fare sure to please herbivores, omnivores and carnivores alike.

4) Visit the Paleo Zone, a hands-on experience where you can dig for hidden dinosaur fossils, pan for precious treasures in Discovery Creek and learn more about “the time before time” through interactive displays.

5) Parking is complimentary at the Downtown Disney area, so even if you’re staying off-resort, you can drive in to enjoy a feast for the senses. Then, stay awhile and explore the Downtown Disney area, where world-class restaurants, dazzling entertainment and unique shops line the waterfront….

Epson XP-810: It’s a #ThrowbackThursday

January 2, 2014 By Lena

What is it about our childhood memories that make us long to bring the past into the present?

(Related: Is Big Brother ALWAYS watching?)

Above: Whitby, 1979. My parents can take credit for the cute kids, but not the snazzy wallpaper, retro red carpet or shiny linoleum. The photo was taken at a friend’s. And apparently, this friend was bad ass.

If you’re a social media addict, you’ll have noticed the popularity of #tbt, or #ThrowbackThursday. It’s a once-a-week chance to share our photo memorabilia; a chance to laugh at plaid bell bottoms (on our parents, of course), reminisce about birthdays and holidays passed, or simply show off our gorgeous baby pictures. It’s the opportunity to connect our past and present in a lighthearted, meaningful way which often draws in friends, family – even complete strangers. (Hands up if you’ve sighed over Ian Somerhalder’s #tbts? Yup, me too.) Over the months, I’ve become a staunch follower of the nostalgia it invokes.

Above: Toronto, 1980. I am 2 years old, and my brother and I lounge on the hood of my dad’s prized 1978 Mercury Cougar XR7. We are from a generation that stayed out until the streetlights came on, and rode our bikes for miles. We skipped on the sidewalk, drank water from a hose and always remembered to say our prayers before bedtime. This is my throwback.…

Get Comfy: Wholesale Furniture Brokers #Giveaway

December 12, 2013 By Lena

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Remember a few days ago when I promised a very special giveaway? I’m ba-ack!

Many of y’all had the chance to read about my Man Cave’s swanky new sectional, courtesy of Wholesale Furniture Brokers Canada. For all those new to furniture shopping online, I discussed the process, what you can expect, and how thrilled I am with the Toronto Tufted Black Leather Corner Sectional Sofa by True Contemporary we selected.

I also alluded to Wholesale Furniture Broker’s enviable selection online, and today, I’m here to show you some of my favourite picks!

Serta Sydney Klik Klak Sofa Bed in Black Leather by Lifestyle Solutions

Looking for a sleek, contemporary piece for your condo, dorm or living room? The Serta Sydney Klik Klak Sofa Bed in Black Leather features a smart, elegant design for urban living. The versatile sofa effortlessly converts into three positions in seconds – sofa, lounger, and bed. I adore the sleek, chrome finished metal legs which are a visually stunning accent to the soft, black bonded leather upholstery. The leather upholstery is tufted to perfectly match with today’s contemporary interiors – and currently has a Sale Price of $549.00.

Want to make this sofa “pop”? Add bright pillow accents in a variety of patterns and prints, or add a colourful club chair to the room for additional seating. Finally, consider a lacquered white coffee table for the most modern contrast….