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Walmart Canada

Walmart Toy Academy: They Do the Work, You Get the Credit!

November 17, 2017 By Lena 40 Comments

You: “Hey Lena, what are the top toys for the holidays? What should I get my 6-year old niece?”

Me: “Um, I can totally help with that!” (Visits walmart.ca/ToyAcademy) “I absolutely know what all the hot toys are!” (Searches for Top Dolls, Doll Houses & Playsets.) “Just give me a minute…” (Enough time to consult another toy list.)
Okay, you caught me. Even a self-professed shopaholic needs a little help, especially during the holiday season. Although I generally have my ear to the ground when it comes to trends and hot sellers, the truth is, I’m also the mom who wanders the toy aisles, completely overwhelmed with the selection.

Where do I begin? What’s the latest craze? Where can I find all the top toys without breaking the bank? …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #toyacademy, holiday shopping, hot toys 2017, Walmart Canada

Fall Florals – I’m Ready in George!

September 20, 2017 By Lena 37 Comments

Dear Fall Season – I could not love you more.

From falling orange leaves to pumpkin spice lattes, to slouchy gray cardigans, to over-the-knee boots, you really rock my world.

This year, I’m ready to get flirty in florals.
Floral prints are my go-to look whenever I want to feel pretty without being overdone. They’re effortlessly romantic and lend just a bit of sweetness to any outfit. Whether you choose a colourful blouse or an artfully demure dress, there’s no wrong way to take on this season’s hottest trend. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: #readyingeorge, fall fashion, Walmart Canada

Solve Weeknight Dinner Dilemmas with Great Value Pasta Sauce

August 20, 2017 By Lena 187 Comments

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

A recent conversation with my husband went something like this:

“So Reid has soccer on Monday nights and Ryder has language therapy on Tuesdays. They both have swimming on Wednesday nights and on Thursdays, don’t forget Ryder has martial arts…”

Sounds like your family too? Weeknights are hectic, I know. In fact, I spend an inordinate amount of time fussing over what to serve for dinner, only to fall back on tried-and-true favourites that I know the boys will eat (preferably, but not always, without complaint). My standby is pasta; spaghetti, macaroni, penne, rotini, fusilli… pair it with a great-tasting pasta sauce and I know they’ll clean their plates.

But kids cannot live on pasta alone.

The good news? I’ve found three new recipes to add to my repertoire thanks to Great Value Pasta Sauce. I know what you’re thinking – more pasta? Nope! These affordable dishes incorporate the deliciousness and versatility of pasta sauce in inspiring new ways. Plus, the recipes are easy to follow and ready in just 20 minutes or less. They’re perfect for crazy weeknights when time (and patience!) is limited!

Easy, Affordable Recipe #1: Cheesy Chicken Nachos
Kids love nachos, so this one’s a no-brainer. However, when was the last time you made nachos with Alfredo sauce? (I just blew your mind, didn’t I?) It’s creamy and pairs perfectly with Mexican-inspired grilled chicken and crispy blue corn tortilla chips. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #WeLoveGreatValue, great value pasta sauce, Walmart Canada

Back to School #ParentWins with Walmart Canada!

August 15, 2017 By Lena 31 Comments

It’s crunch time, moms.

With just a couple of weeks to go before the BIG DAY, chances are, you have places to go and people to outfit. (In many, many outfits….) So where can you find stylish, affordable clothing that can keep up with your kids and their fashion personas? Walmart Canada, of course!
Pictured Above: George Boys’ Graphic Shirts ($12.97), George Boys’ Skinny Fit Jeans ($11.97), Athletic Works Boys’ Smith Athletic Shoe (on Ryder, $24.97) and AND1 Boys’ Fantasy Basketball Shoes (on Reid, $29.97). …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: #GeorgebyWalmart, #ParentWins, back to school, Walmart Canada

#Steakcation Alert: Try This Sizzlin’ Summer Stir-fry

May 20, 2017 By Lena 61 Comments

I admit that I’ve been a *little* distracted while writing this post, mainly because I keep going back for another taste of this delicious Steak Stir-fry. You know, just to make sure it’s as scrumptious as I remembered… from minutes ago.

Still tender, flavourful and chock full of fresh ingredients? Lemme check. Be right back.

You may not understand my obsession until you try this easy-to-make, family-pleasing dish for yourself.
The best part? I grabbed everything I needed from my favourite one-stop shop, Walmart Canada. Now, every cut of beef Walmart sells is 100% Canadian AAA Angus beef, so I can always find premium-quality, fresh beef at affordable prices. The beef is locally sourced from Canadian farms and ranches with ideal conditions for raising Angus beef cattle, and my purchase supports hard-working Canadians who care about sustainability and quality. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #steakcation, 100% Canadian AAA Angus Beef, Walmart Canada

New Year, Old Traditions: Cooking with Turmeric

January 18, 2017 By Lena 204 Comments

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Turmeric. No, I did not just sneeze… although inhaling this peppery spice may have that effect!

If you’re not familiar with turmeric – what I consider one of the most effective nutritional supplements in existence – make 2017 the year you get turned on to its unique flavour.

And if you know someone of East Indian descent, like my mother? Well, they put that yellow stuff in EVERYTHING.
_DSC1055I find it amusing that turmeric is often identified as a new food trend, since I’ve been exposed to it since birth. Every stir-fry, vegetable dish and curry my mom has ever created always included a pinch (or punch) of turmeric. My mom will say she adds it for colour, but a brief online search will show the properties of this herb go well beyond its cosmetic use.

(Remember, always consult your doctor or nutritionist before starting a new regime – even when it includes natural foods!) …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #NewYearMealChallenge, cooking with turmeric, Walmart Canada

Potluck Perfection: Cranberry, Pear and Bacon Stuffing. (Mmm…)

December 21, 2016 By Lena 55 Comments

With the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, I’m regularly asked to provide tips for tackling the holidays with ease. For the most part, my suggestions can vary from creating homemade decor to trying the Secret Santa method of gift giving. However, one tip that appears on all my lists – and at the top of most – is to share the workload and have a potluck dinner.

A potluck, people! It’s the perfect way to celebrate togetherness, one dish at a time – especially if that dish is this Cranberry, Pear and Bacon Stuffing. Recipe below!
_dsc1011Now, often A-type personalities will argue, “It’s too complicated to coordinate a potluck. I’d rather make all the dishes myself; I have more control over the menu that way.” Touché. And I say, “Have fun in the kitchen!” …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #freshpotluck, holiday recipes, potluck recipes, Walmart Canada

The Pièce de Résistance? The Ugly Christmas Sweater, Of Course!

November 18, 2016 By Lena 32 Comments

“But WHY is it called an ugly sweater?” my mom asked.

“Well,” I explained, “it’s like this. For years we’ve received these hideous – but well intentioned – holiday sweaters from parents and grandparents. And now it’s time to turn the tables and own it! So before you run out and buy me a Christmas-y sweater, I’m beating you to it. It’s ugly and I’m proud to wear it!”

“I still don’t really understand why it has to be ugly,” she replied. “Why can’t it be a nice sweater with a jolly Christmas motif? Like reindeer or elves or a picturesque snowy Christmas town?”

POINT. MADE.
_dsc0686abIt’s colourful. It’s ironic. It’s like Christmas exploded and you swept up all the pieces and turned it into jaunty pullover. Whatever it is, the ugly Christmas sweater has marked a special place in our hearts during the holiday season. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: #SaveMoneyStyleBetter, ugly christmas sweater, Walmart Canada

Discover the Fresh Taste of Fall.

November 2, 2016 By Lena 22 Comments

I love fall. I love walking with my boys in the morning, hearing the sound of freshly fallen leaves crunching under their footsteps. I love stopping by my local coffee shop, chatting up my favourite barista as she prepares a foamy, spiced latte.
_dsc0459aMost of all, I love scrolling through my Instagram feed, smiling at photos of children posing in a pumpkin patch, families picking apples and grandparents joining in for hay rides at a nearby farm. It reminds me that even as generations pass, the harvest is a time of togetherness.

I’m not sure if it’s by design or coincidence, but I tend to entertain more often in the fall months. The bountiful fresh produce offerings make it easy to create one-dish meals and rustic desserts, and my local Walmart is the perfect place to find colourful squash, earthy root vegetables, tree-ripened fruit and crunchy, cruciferous favourites. There is always a large selection of high-quality, locally sourced produce that is refreshed daily. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #DiscoverFreshContest, pumpkin puree, recipe, Walmart Canada

Dress it Up… and Fall into Style.

October 2, 2016 By Lena 279 Comments

NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Hello, sweater weather. It’s been much too long! And I’ve been awaiting your return – especially since I’ve updated my fall wardrobe to include a few key, timeless pieces.
_dsc0160aThis season, my go-to look is an oversized, chunky sweater with slim jeggings and slouchy boots. It’s the perfect combination of chic comfort and casual elegance, and I was able to find everything (including the boots – hello!) for just $75.91 pre-tax at Walmart.

YES, Walmart.

Ladies, when was the last time you visited the women’s section at Walmart? It’s teeming with the latest fall essentials from George at affordable prices. This year’s collection features everything from quality knits to stylish sweaters, and if the selection doesn’t blow you away, the prices surely will. I fell in love with this George Women’s Mock Neck Boxy Poncho with Sleeves for just $29.97. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: #FallLooksforLess, fall fashion, george clothing, Walmart Canada

Discover Fresh. Live Better.

October 2, 2016 By Lena 37 Comments

Welcome, fall.

A season of changing leaves and warm layers. A time to swap swimsuits for sweaters; a chance to indulge in pumpkin spice and everything nice. And the very, very best time to shop for fresh, local produce.

My local Walmart is brimming with crisp apples, sweet peaches and earthy root vegetables. Squash in vibrant hues of yellow, orange and green beckon to be added to comforting soups and stews. Concord grapes, perfectly symmetrical and ripe off the vine, sit tightly packed in small baskets. Bartlett pears, soft and fragrant, offer versatility in the sweetest way.
_dsc0114aOf course, one of my favourite things to do is cook with nature’s bounty, creating flavourful meals I know my family will love – while showcasing the best of the fall harvest. These Pear, Brie and Walnut Crostinis are a delicious way to pay homage to locally grown Bartlett pears (my favourite!) and couldn’t be simpler to make. I found convenient 5-lb packages at Walmart, in addition to all the other ingredients for this recipe! …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #DiscoverFreshContest, bartlett pears, recipe, Walmart Canada

When Granola Bars are this Good, You Call them Great (Value)

September 23, 2016 By Lena 29 Comments

Every mom has a list of her go-to snacks, and around here, we love a good granola bar.

Think about it: granola bars are small, extremely portable and easily napkin-free, which allows them to tackle a variety of snacking situations. They’re the perfect treat! From long car rides to lunchboxes, as part of a breakfast-on-the-go or in between meetings, we always have a variety on hand. Chances are, you do too! So tell me, are you a chocolate dipped or classically chewy kind of snacker?dsc_0013bLately, we’ve been enjoying Great Value Chewy Chocolate Chip Granola Bars. They’re peanut free, made in Canada and have no artificial colours or preservatives. They’re also crammed with granola and chocolatey goodness with just the right texture: not too chewy, not too soft. The boys always grab a granola bar before we head out to run errands, and I reach for them during the dreaded “3PM Snack Attack” when I need a little something to carry me through until dinner. …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: granola bars, great value, snack ideas, Walmart Canada

School Looks for Less? Yes!

August 12, 2016 By Lena 33 Comments

My boys are at an age where they’re starting to develop self-awareness. This means that their hair must be styled a certain way (“More pomade, Mom!”), there are taboo clothing choices (cords?) and of course, they have their preferences when it comes to back to school style.
bysThank goodness for Walmart. They have everything I need for back to school, including a wide selection of quality fashion for boys at affordable prices. From preppy shirts to hoodies for layering; popular graphic tees to on-trend stylish denim, back to school shopping for outfits is such a breeze. …

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Filed Under: Fashion Tagged With: #schoollooksforless, back to school, kids fashion, Walmart Canada

Three Steps to Summer BBQ Bliss #MakeSummerGreat

August 11, 2016 By Lena 43 Comments

My very favourite thing to do in the summertime is relax on the patio with family and friends.

Barbecued burgers. Chilled drinks. Fresh cut fruit. Cold desserts.

If that’s not a slice of heaven, I don’t know what is! And the best thing about summer entertaining is that it doesn’t have to be complicated or costly; simply assemble a few tried-and-true staples, give them an unexpected twist, and voila! You’ve got the perfect recipe to make summer great.

Here are three easy steps to summer barbecue bliss.

Step One: Chip, Dip, Repeat. Remember, the most memorable barbecues are the ones that serve simple foods that everyone loves. To start, grab classic ripple chips and fresh veggies, and serve them with this to-die-for (trust me!) Creamy Taco Dip.
greatvaluebbq_jun26009The dip has only five ingredients – Greek yogurt, Great Value Light Cream Cheese, crumbled feta cheese, Great Value Taco Seasoning Mix and chives. Mix them all together and try not to lick the bowl. It’s that addictive! …

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Filed Under: Food Tagged With: #MakeSummerGreat, bbq party ideas, great value, Walmart Canada

The Chic Retreat

April 7, 2016 By Lena

If you didn’t attend our #TimetoRefreshContest Twitter Party last night, it may already be too late.

On trend pieces for home décor? Check.
Affordable prices? Check.
A desire to purchase everything in the collection? Check!

And, it is selling out like crazy. I may have placed a piece or two in my shopping cart last night!
824pmLENAIntroducing the Chic Retreat collection from Walmart. A limited offering for Spring 2016, this style driven collection offers a full range of linens, furniture, décor and accessories, making it easy and affordable to decorate an entire room or simply add a piece or two to update existing décor in bed, bath and living. …

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Filed Under: Decor Tagged With: #timetorefreshcontest, home decor, Walmart Canada

Live Better: It’s a #GreatValueContest Twitter Party!

January 23, 2016 By Lena

Introducing a NEW line of products that offers certified organic foods at budget-friendly prices – Walmart Canada’s new Great Value Organic line features a variety of pantry staples that your entire family will love!

”The Great Value Organic products align to our promise to customers that we will help them save money on organic products so that their families can live better,” said Pablo Heyman, Senior Director, Brand Management, Walmart Canada. “We are proud to offer an assortment of packaged organic products, each Canadian certified organic, from cereals and granola bars to pasta and pasta sauces and starting at just $1.97.”

Want to learn more? We’ll be sharing easy ways to incorporate these delicious products at the #GreatValueContest Twitter Party!
Walmart_GreatValue_TW-Chat_v03 (2)Join us on Wednesday, January 27th at 8PM EST. There is no RSVP; simply attend the Twitter Party, answer the questions and always remember to use the hashtag #GreatValueContest. The contest is open to Canadians only (excluding QC); see official rules here.

We’ll also be giving away over $1200 in prizing, including a grand prize valued at $250! This is definitely one Twitter Party you won’t want to miss. See you on Wednesday night! …

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Filed Under: Contests Tagged With: #greatvaluecontest, Twitter Party, Walmart Canada

Babysitting My Bella: A Play Date with Play, Stow and Go!

November 11, 2015 By Lena

The very best thing about being an aunt to a sweet little girl is the ability to watch her grow, explore and learn about the world around her, one step at a time. This past weekend, I had the pleasure of babysitting my two-year-old niece Bella, and I don’t know who was more excited! I got to pinch her chubby cheeks and watch her toddle around, and she had a chance to play with the new PLAYSKOOL Play, Stow and Go toys, the ultimate in portable entertainment. They’re a mom’s – and this babysitter’s – dream!

Hey there little princess! Look who’s joining us for the drive to Aunty Lena’s!
DSC_1621aIt’s PLAYSKOOL All Day Elmo! This cuddly and interactive Elmo toy has 150+ responses, plus eight games and activities to help keep her engaged. And when playtime is over, Elmo can become a loveable friend for Bella to cuddle – because with a squeeze of Elmo’s nose, he can play a soft lullaby with gentle music. It took only a few moments for my niece to get acquainted with Elmo, and then, they became fast friends! …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: learning toys, play stow and go, Playskool, Walmart Canada

Join the Ultimate Play Date with Walmart Canada and Playskool!

November 4, 2015 By Lena

When it comes to busy days with baby, simple is better.

Take this weekend. If you’re a parent, chances are, you’ll be out and about running errands with your little ones. And one of the first rules of Mommyhood is learning to keep kids entertained on the go.

(Stay tuned for details about a super fun play date!)

Enter PLAYSKOOL Play, Stow and Go. The toys are easily compacted, collapsible and some even include a handy little travel clip for the ultimate in portability. Now, playtime can happen nearly anytime, anywhere! They can be stowed inside a stroller, a diaper bag and can even be stashed into a pocket. And since the toys are appropriate for ages 3 months and up, they’re perfect for babies as well as toddlers.

My picks? For smaller babes, these space-saving Stack ‘n Stow Cups are perfect for families on the go. Designed for kids with grown-ups in mind, the seven colourful cups let babies stack and explore fun combinations. When finished, they quickly condense into one piece for easy storage and travel. Heading to an appointment? Don’t leave home without the stacking cups!
716ZaagIuAL._SL1500_I love PLAYSKOOL All Day Elmo. This cuddly and interactive Elmo toy has 150+ responses, plus eight games and activities to help keep kids engaged. When playtime is over, Elmo can become a loveable friend for little ones to cuddle – because with a squeeze of Elmo’s nose, he can play a soft lullaby with gentle music. A second squeeze of Elmo’s nose will make him play a soothing instrumental lullaby. …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #PlayStowGo, learning toys, Playskool, Walmart Canada

From Sag to Swag, A True Story

October 13, 2015 By Lena

From time to time, my ovaries do that little twinge thing. Hey Lena, they’ll say. How about another baby? A wee one to snuggle and cuddle and love to bits!

Down, ovaries, down.

First, I’m dangerously approaching the “Sell By” date on my eggs. Let’s just say that the big 4-0 is around the corner, and the only dates I want to be tracking are the date nights I have with my husband. Without kids.

Second, I have a new(ish) niece! She provides me with all the enjoyment I need, because she checks off the three major requirements: she looks like a baby, talks like a baby and walks like a baby.

Er, actually, she doesn’t walk like a baby at all. Because she just went from #SagtoSwag.

If there’s one thing I remember about my boys, it was their saggy diapers. As they grew and became mobile, I became increasingly aware of their overly bulky, bulging diapers which caused them to waddle around like most toddlers. At first, I began to change diapers around the clock, thinking that it must be terribly uncomfortable! But I soon realized that no matter what I did, the sag stayed.

That was then. Today, new and improved Pampers Cruisers diapers with Extra Absorb Channels help little ones stay drier and do not sag like ordinary diapers – helping babies go from sag to swag!
PampersThink about it. A poor fitting or saggy diaper can limit babies’ freedom of movement. As babies grow, develop and explore their world, they need a diaper that allows them to play freely, provides a great fit, and stays drier. Plus, a recent Pampers survey found that more than 80% of moms who notice sag are bothered that their baby’s diaper sags. The same survey also found that 78% of moms feel that saggy diapers can weigh their baby down. …

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #PGMom, #sagtoSwag, pampers cruisers, Walmart Canada

Celebrate #SagtoSwag with the NEW Pampers Cruisers at Walmart!

August 21, 2015 By Lena

That moment when you realize one the world’s best products just got better.

It’s no secret that Pampers is the 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, Pampers also happens to be the brand that I’ve used on the two individuals who matter most to me in life – my two boys.

First, they were swaddled. Then, they were kept dry. And finally, they achieved cruiser status… exploring the world with gusto and glee. And then came the day when we no longer saw the familiar box in the corner of our room; we no longer felt the soft, padded bottom of our toddlers. It was a bittersweet moment for us, and often, if I think about sweet-smelling babies, cooing little mouths and Pampers-clad bottoms a little too much… my ovaries start to stir.

Um, NOPE. This shop is closed for business.

Even though my boys are well past the toddler stage, I’ll never stop being interested and invested in the Pampers brand. It is the only brand of diapers that I recommend to new moms, and I follow the updates and innovation rather closely. Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a media event in New York City, which celebrated the unveiling of the NEW Pampers Cruisers! There, I joined celebrity mom Jane Krakowski and mompreneurs from across North America.
IMG_0185I’ll be back to share all the details about the day – and, of course, the new and improved Pampers Cruisers – but in the meantime, I’d love to invite parents in the Greater Toronto Area to a very special event!…

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Filed Under: Family Tagged With: #PGMom, #sagtoSwag, pampers cruisers, Walmart Canada

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Lena Almeida

Toronto Blogger, Social Media Strategist for Listen to Lena Inc. Television & Radio Personality, Columnist and Speaker. Family Travel Expert. Star Wars Fanatic. Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion. Read More…

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