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Cool Tech Gadget I WANT Now!

By Sonya on May 31, 2013 10:45 AM | No Comments

Once in a while I check out what up and coming products are in the works. I've come across a neat little website called Kickstarter.com that helps promote innovative products and services. People can go in (hey, mompreneurs!) and talk about their projects in the works and can request "backers". There's one that just caught my eye called XiStera 8 and I'm very intrigued! It may just be the coolest techy gadget around for shutterbugs like me and it's designed for the iPhone5. Hello, I'm addicted to instagram, remember? Yes, I'm totally one of those people who takes photos EVERYWHERE and... More »

Blubber

By Jason on May 28, 2013 10:06 AM | 5 Comments

A year ago I was put under the knife (again) to have my lap band adjusted due to slippage. For those who are not familiar with gastric band surgery, I basically have an adjustable elastic band tied around the top of my stomach to fake my body into thinking it is full. Not really faking it because overeating is basically impossible when the band is tight and the results of overeating are exactly what you could logically expect, so no need for the gory details. Once my band was put back into place, I was supposed to wait for a... More »

Say "Si" to Sangria

By Jennifer on May 23, 2013 1:07 AM | 3 Comments

I think I might finally feel confident in putting away the toques and parkas. This past weekend was absolutely glorious in this part of the country, and I spent most of each day outside; cleaning up the patio furniture, weeding the garden and hosting friends on the deck. I'm ready to retire my Bailey's and turn to a new beverage of choice.I'd been invited to test out a new recipe for Sangria, and though I was intimidated at first, when presented with all of the ingredients I decided that this was the perfect weekend to try it out.Ingredients1 bottle (750... More »

All Lined Up

By Tracey on May 15, 2013 2:45 PM | 11 Comments

I like to think of myself as being an organised and tidy person, but I don't make myself nuts about it. I mean, not for real.And recently while in the grocery store, the woman behind me remarked on how organised all my stuff was on the conveyor belt, waiting to be scanned by the cashier. I hadn't really thought about it before, but I suppose it was kind of sorted... fruits and vegetables were mostly together, cold and frozen things were close to the meats, drinks were together, eggs and breads at the last. *shrugs*It's the natural way I tend... More »

Corn Muffins right from the backyard!

By Cayla on May 14, 2013 11:43 AM | 1 Comment

Last week, She's So Green blogger, Samantha, gave us a few great tips on container gardening. This was a post that is close to my heart. I am a huge fan of uber-local eating and over the past few summers, have slowly been converting my backyard flowerbeds into my own little urban farm, growing everything from parsley to potatoes. However, I recognize that the extent of my garden isn't for everyone. It takes a lot of time, effort, research, and patience to grow a great food garden...something not all of us have. Luckily, there are a few edibles that are super-cheap,... More »

From My Closet - May 10th, 2013

By Tracey on May 10, 2013 4:00 PM | 13 Comments

I finally flipped my closets over from cold-weather wear to HOT last weekend, since it suddenly got entirely too warm to wear anything other than shorts and flip flops. The two weeks of spring is often like that, I find. And I've mostly been shopping for the children, since their growing needs are indeed about GROWTH - a boy needs more than two pairs of shorts to wear (especially when it's upwards of 25 degrees Celsius each day) and no one has suitable shoes that fit. This kind of shopping can empty a lady's wallet in a hurry. So in... More »

Continue reading From My Closet - May 10th, 2013.

sustainable mother's day gifts

By Alanna on May 8, 2013 9:40 PM | No Comments

This will be my third Mother's Day and while we don't really make a big deal of these Hallmark occasions, I can always expect a little something to acknowledge all my hard work. The online world has been a-buzz with all sorts of Mother's Day gift ideas, but with some inspiration from FoodTank - The Food Think Tank I've compiled a pretty sweet and sustainable list to show mom how much you love her.So here it goes:Buy Local - Consider making your mom a meal at home with locally grown food instead of going out. Or buy a gift for her... More »

Test of Humanity

By Amanda on May 8, 2013 12:33 AM | 3 Comments

Being the fat kid sucks.I was overweight from the age of 8 - 15 and it was brutal. All my friends had boyfriends, but I didn't. Gym class was agonizing. I felt so uncomfortable in my own skin, betrayed by my frame.Then, I lost weight (in a totally unhealthy, stupid way) and began a roller coaster ride with my body image that lasted a painful decade. I had a horrible relationship with food; I was either starving or bingeing. No middle ground. It was awful.Things are better now, but the struggle will never be completely behind me. As Geneen Roth... More »

Ya, you know me.

By Sonya on May 13, 2013 2:05 PM | 2 Comments

A few days ago I was grocery shopping at my local Loblaw store. I was excited (not just to replenish my tortilla chips and salted caramel ice cream) but I had just downloaded the new PC PLUS app onto my mobile device. I had recently learned about this newly launched rewards program and it caught my attention. I've got 2 growing boys with big appetites and since I shop at Loblaw frequently this would surely be worth my while. I had registered in-store for my rewards card. Easy enough and it's free. But I'm notorious for losing cards. So, the appeal of... More »

Girlfriend Getaway at Horseshoe Resort - A delicious experience.

By Cayla on May 5, 2013 11:14 AM | 3 Comments

Last weekend, I was treated to the Girlfriends Getaway package at Horseshoe Resort in Ontario's Muskoka region. On my drive up there, my mind wandered to all of the exciting events we had planned: a yoga class, massage, facial, and time to relax in the pool and hot tub. But you know what I was most excited about? The food. I had been dying to try the food there ever since I read that executive chef Dylan Tulloch was selected as the "local chef of the year." Now, not only was I going to eat in his restaurant, Silks, I... More »

Celebrating 110 at the King Edward Hotel

By Sonya on May 8, 2013 10:36 AM | 1 Comment

There are a few iconic buildings in Toronto but when you walk through the doors of the 110 year old King Edward Hotel, you can just feel the opulence and imagine all the incredible stories of grandeur (and gasp!...scandal) that have occurred throughout the years. Kind Eddy (as affectionately known to Torontonians) was the city's first luxury hotel. Built in 1903 by George Gooderham, a developer and one of Toronto's wealthiest men - at a cost of $6 million. Room rates back then started form $1.50 a day for a single room without a bath and $7 a day for bedrooms... More »

12 Wonderful Ideas for Mother's Day

By Angie on May 1, 2013 6:33 PM | No Comments

With Mother's Day less than 2 weeks away, I thought it would be a great time to round up some ideas of things that you could buy, craft or make for a special mom in your life.....whether it be your own mom or a mom that you admire!A special treat of breakfast in bed is always a hit when made by mom's little munchkins.A coffee lover might enjoy a homemade mix for iced cappuccino for hot summer days. Pair it with a gift card for a book store and you have great treat for mom.Equally, a mix for strawberry lemonade... More »

it's all good for dinner

By Alanna on April 24, 2013 10:21 PM | 3 Comments

Most recently, the part of my day that gives me the most anxiety is dinner. L'il E and I get home from work/school around 5:30 and from that moment on the restaurant is open for business. I start making dinner, while E eats a snack and (gulp!) watches Kinder Egg unboxings on the iPad - he can get deep into the bowels of YouTube. It's nearly impossible for me to get dinner on the table before 6:30 and by that point I'm starving, L'il E doesn't want what I've prepared and the Hubs is (these days) still at work. I... More »

3 Must Have Camping Recipes

By Angie on April 24, 2013 7:00 AM | 3 Comments

My husband took our little boat out of winter hibernation this weekend. I could feel the excitement of a new fishing and camping season just around the corner. Yes. We take part in that great Canadian pastime of summer camping...with a tent, sleeping bags and fireside cooking. We all have our special requests too. My daughter likes to go camping where there are hot showers. My son likes to go camping where there is a wharf or dock that he can jump off of. My hubs like to go where the fish are plentiful. And me...I just like everyone to... More »

Committing to a Healthy Mind & Body

By Jen on April 23, 2013 4:33 PM | 7 Comments

I have spent most of my life in a less-than-perfect relationship with food and a self-sabotaging approach to eating, and in my quest to be "thin" have tried to deprive myself skinny. Since tweenhood and maybe even earlier, the way in which I have viewed my body is neither as gift nor temple but as something to be changed and improved upon. I am now on a mission to change this, and Weight Watchers is helping me. See, the problem is that when you have swung between overeating and deprivation for as long as you can remember, it is challenging to... More »

Thai Mango Salad: The result of my recent foodie adventures.

By Cayla on April 21, 2013 12:44 PM | 1 Comment

Over the past three weeks, I've have the privilege of attending three diverse, yet amazing foodie events: The Good Food and Drink Show, The Green Living Show, and DishCrawl Toronto. At the Good Food and Drink Show, I got to sample the latest and greatest trends in the Toronto Food scene. I found out that tea is the new coffee, trucks are the new restaurants, and beer is the new wine. The back-to-basics local eating movement continues...with a side of South Asian and Caribbean. These trends were mirrored the next week at the Green Living Show, when I found out that... More »

The Foodie Adventure: Doing the Dishcrawl

By Sonya on April 30, 2013 9:10 AM | 1 Comment

I'm a foodie adventurer and I'll try anything at least once, if not twice. I love to taste, savour and explore my food from the littlest shop like Mr. Jerk up at the Peanut Plaza in Don Mills to my favourite and filling meals at Jumbo Empanadas in Kensington Market to the most satisfying weekend brunches at FRANK (AGO) and succulent octopus salad at Fabbricca. Oh! And the highly addictive porchetta at Vincentina Meats in Concord is soooo good! Living in Toronto is perfect for any food lover as we've got restaurants that cover all corners of our small planet.... More »

Seafood & Swiss Grilled Cheese

By Tracey on April 12, 2013 6:00 PM | 4 Comments

I read a tweet about it being National Grilled Cheese Day today. Perhaps this is only in the US. Perhaps it's all in the mind of some lonely dude somewhere, in his sad basement apartment, clinging to the internet for friendship. And for his sanity.But who cares. Grilled cheese? Yes, please! (As long as it ain't this kind of cheese.)But first, a memory: I worked for a tiny restaurant in the Leaside area of Toronto when I was in high school, and one of the most popular lunch sandwiches we served was made of pollock (used to make that imitation crab product) and... More »

Seafood & Swiss Grilled Cheese

By Tracey on April 12, 2013 6:00 PM | 4 Comments

3 Sweet Treats for The Weekend

By Angie on April 12, 2013 9:00 AM | 3 Comments

The weekend is here! Yay! Often, I like to bake treats for my family on the weekends, which can be anything from a simple pan of brownies to the more-effort-involved pie. If you don't bake, but would like to, I really encourage you to give it a try. If you feel something is holding you back, try taking a look at the organization of your kitchen. Are all of the baking supplies together and set up in an area that makes sense? Moving things around could be all that is needed to make you feel motivated to try some baking... More »

Dinner In a Glass - Bloody April

By Tracey on April 12, 2013 12:15 PM | 5 Comments

Perhaps the weather is less than stellar where you are today. Oh hai, thanks for the all snow and ice balls, April. Never mind. Make yourself a cocktail, and just wait for that crap to end.This is basically a Bloody Mary, only with more deliciousness. Let's call it a Bloody April. It's practically got a salad inside it AND beside it, with cold shrimp for nomming on. If you put bacon in it, you cold totally call it dinner.You'll need:a glass-full of tomato juice a tipple of vodkascant shake of salt & peppera few drops Tabascoa few drops Worchestershire saucea speck... More »

Dinner In a Glass - Bloody April

By Tracey on April 12, 2013 12:15 PM | 5 Comments

Who Wants 20 Bucks?

By Amanda on April 11, 2013 12:06 PM | 69 Comments

Updated! The winner, according to Random.org was commenter #57, chel22. I will be contacting you via email to get your prize to you!"There's six feet of snow on the lawn and it's minus 25 degrees with the windchill!" my mom choked out yesterday. She lives in Saskatchewan. Poor bunny.This morning's Facebook posts were riddled with photos of a snow storm that hit Ontario. A snow day, in April?! That's not OK.Right now, in beautiful BC, it's been mild and spring-ish but pretty rainy. I'll take it over snow any day. I know for me, it's crazy how much the weather affects... More »

Dinner. Time.

By Cayla on April 9, 2013 10:24 PM | 3 Comments

I didn't cook my family dinner tonight.Ok. That's not altogether true. Technically, I did prepare dinner, but it took very little skill or effort and it wasn't up to my personal standards of excellence. My roast chicken was store-bought, my broccoli was plainly steamed, and my potatoes wedges were the simplest, one-two step recipe ever.This is the polar opposite of the usual homemade ravioli/decorate-your-own meatloaf cupcake/caprese-salad kababs concoctions I normally serve my family. But between the drum lessons and badminton team and play practice and Hebrew school and the emergency trip to the dollar store to get supplies for a... More »

Extra Pepperoni. ON MY FACE.

By Amanda on April 9, 2013 5:06 PM | 3 Comments

While I may have the sagging bosoms and bottom of a 30 year-old mother of three, I have the face of a 16 year-old.A 16 year-old with a bad case of acne, that is.It's bad, you guys.My break-outs used to be confined to the week before my menstrual cycle would start, but as of late, my whole face has been peppered with pimples all month long. I know it's partly related to stress and I joke that for every real estate deal I work on, I get a canker sore and a volcanic zit to show for the stress of... More »

The Monday Morning Muddle

By Angie on April 8, 2013 9:29 PM | 3 Comments

This morning was it.'The Monday Morning Muddle'. Does it happen in your nest? The end-of-the-weekend hangover, where no one wants to get out of bed? Precious minutes pass by and then things quickly become a jostle of hurried-up chaos and 'Mom, where's my..._____", There is nothing worse than starting off the week with the stress of dis-organization. And it's not fun to have people going out the door looking like little Miss Pickle Puss and or Mr. Sauerkraut either!To help you avoid the Monday morning muddle, here are 3 little tips.1. Use some time on Sunday to prep lunches for the... More »

Sabra Introduces Salsa and Guacamole for your Dipping Pleasure

By Jennifer on April 12, 2013 8:03 PM | 4 Comments

I am a big fan of Sabra's delicious hummus. It's a go-to purchase for summer entertaining; I love it as a dip, as a spread on sandwiches, and as a condiment for burgers. That's why I'm so excited to write about the new products that the company's launching this month to broaden their dipping experience. Sabra Salsas are made at their plant in Mexico with fresh Roma tomatoes. They're cold-packed and cold-shipped to ensure you'll enjoy a fresh and delicious taste. Sabra is not just dipping their toes into the salsa market; they're jumping right in with a variety of flavours... More »

Presto Pesto

By Cayla on April 6, 2013 9:21 AM | No Comments

Doughnuts. They appear on almost every single list of top 10 foods to avoid. Yet I just can't seem to resist their white flour, sugary, deep-fried fatty goodness. Doughnuts are the reason I don't really mind driving my son to his 7am practices. You see, there's this little hole-in-the-wall coffee shop that bakes outrageously delicious doughnuts. But you only have one chance per day to get 'em hot and fresh, which is, you guessed it, 7am. Besides these doughnuts, I really do try to eat healthy by reducing unnecessary fats in my diet. I eat Greek Yogurt instead of sour cream,... More »

Chatting up filmmaker Rob Stewart, REVOLUTION.

By Sonya on April 18, 2013 11:30 AM | 2 Comments

It's just past 11 o'clock in the morning and I've made my way to Cafe Diplomatico or "The Dip" we've often referred to. It's a main-stay along College Street where everyone from suits to moms with strollers and old timers like to hang out. It's one of those joints where you can just be yourself. Just chill. This morning I've arranged to meet up with award-winning filmmaker, Rob Stewart to chat about his latest documentary, REVOLUTION. You may recognize the Stewart from SHARKWATER. The film that rocked the Asian fishing industry off kilter and made many open their eyes about one of the... More »

Quick Easter Summary

By Amanda on March 31, 2013 11:45 PM | 4 Comments

Easter was great. I ate too many mini eggs. The end. ... More »

Chip, Chip Hooray! Another Chicken Recipe!

By Cayla on March 31, 2013 11:25 AM | 1 Comment

So if I haven't scared you off yet with the promise of yet another chicken recipe, let me reassure you now that this one is special...for a few reasons.1. Your kids will love it.2. You will love it.3. Your kids and you will love making it.Now that I've regained your confidence, let me tell you what you'll be making: Potato Chip Chicken.Lots of people have heard about it, some have tried it, but not too many are doing it properly. The chips don't stick, its too salty, its too greasy, its too soggy, and overall, its just doesn't taste as good... More »

this is easter, this is hope, this is spring, this is perfect, this is a problem for me

By Nancy on March 31, 2013 6:20 PM | 2 Comments

this is easterthis is hopethis is springthis is perfect9 egg whites (Pavlova)9 egg yolks (Hollandaise)this is a problem for meDoes anyone know where I can get some elastic waist pants and a chocolate intervention?... More »

Welcome to The Nest!

By Angie on April 3, 2013 5:49 PM | 110 Comments

Welcome to The Nest! I am so excited to have you here with me. Here at The Nest, we will be chatting and sharing ideas for everything to do with running a busy family home. It is my philosophy that life is busy and our homes provide, ultimately, a sanctuary and shelter away from the stresses of commitments, chaos, and the craziness of life 'out there'. Our homes should be a place of comfort and joy, a place for relaxing and connecting with family, and a place that reflects the things that are important to us.Here are some examples of... More »

Weight Watchers Week 8 Update

By Jen on March 26, 2013 10:34 PM | 26 Comments

Week 8: Down 14lbs (Hooray!)In my opinion, late winter,, is the toughest time to be a Canadian. I know, it varies from coast to coast but, overall, this time of year can be downright ugly. The gloomy grey and the ongoing snowfall make me feel like curling up in front of the TV with a bag of chips and not coming out until spring blooms. This year, for the most part, I have resisted this urge. And, instead found ways/excuses to celebrate late winter. For example, this time of year has more days off of school than any other. Between PD... More »

Probiotic means "for life".

By Sonya on April 2, 2013 10:30 AM | 7 Comments

A few years ago I came down with a severe case of food poisoning. It took quite a few rounds of antibiotics and months of testing to get my intestines back to a safe zone. But it also took a couple of years to get my system back on track. Along side with my doctor's advice I also visited a nutritionist. She was great in giving me advice on what I should eat to keep me on track especially after the antibiotics knocked out the bad stuff. The re-occuring advice was to get a healthy dose of probiotics each and... More »

Don't "Passover" these recipes

By Cayla on March 24, 2013 8:35 AM

"I can't believe it's KOSHER!"The five magic words every Jewish cooks wishes to hear during Passover. Beginning this Monday evening, we will have to find creative and delicious ways to feed our families without the use of bread, pasta, rice, cereal, and a whole bunch of other no-nos--including beer and mustard. Throw a couple of giant family feasts (Seders) with very specific ceremonial foods that must be served and you've got the culinary challenge of the year on your hands. Most Kosher-for-Passover recipes call for substituting taboo ingredients for the their Kosher counterpart, but that's not how I roll. I don't... More »

The Cuban

By Sonya on March 23, 2013 11:46 AM

I'm addicted. Totally addicted. Just when I started to get uninspired by the thought of making lunches for the kids, my senses were awakened once again and reminded that something so simple can be so delicious.On a recent trip down south to visit family, we visited Columbia, a restaurant that served traditional Cuban fare. I had the traditional juicy roast pork meal with a side of yuca, fried plaintain, and black beans and rice. A simple dish yet so, SO YUMMY! My younger son had the Cuban Sandwich. It was soooo good that for the rest of the trip we... More »

Cinefranco Film Festival Top Picks

By Sonya on March 26, 2013 3:04 PM

Spring is in the air...and for some reason my mind is set on everything en francais - a culture that is passionate about everything they do. So, inspiring! And there's nothing better than to take in a few of the world's best films! CINEFRANCO is English Canada's largest international showcase in Francophone cinema and will take place in Toronto from April 5 to April 14, 2013. Films from Belgium, Canada, Egypt, France, Luxembourg, Morocco, and Switzerland will descend on the big screen in the city with 3 World Premieres, 7 North American Premieres, 13 English Canadian Premieres and 2 Toronto Premieres and... More »

Hershey's Chocolate...for the Canadian Palate

By Jennifer on March 19, 2013 9:27 PM | 1 Comment

Canadians and Americans may be some of the most famous next-door neighbours in the world, but we do share some very specific taste differences. When Canadians refer to Smarties, we know we're talking about delicious little multicoloured treats and not hard, tasteless candies. We tend to prefer our Tim Horton's doughnuts to their Dunkin Donuts donuts. And it turns out we have a very different palate when it comes to chocolate.For years, we've had to purchase the same variety of Hershey's chocolate that they've been making in Hershey, Pennsylvania for years and years and years, But recently, the folks at... More »

Negotiating With Terrorists.

By Tracey on March 19, 2013 1:00 PM | 2 Comments

It is 11:20 AM, and candy is Ava Scarlett's favourite food group.She: Can I have something to eat, please?Me: Yes, darling! What would you like?She: Can I have some Swedish Berries?Me: Um... okay.She: Can I have ten?Me: You can have six.She: *pleading face* Ten?Me: *mouths silently* Six.She: *brow furrows* Not ten?Me: *firmly* NOT ten. Six.She: *cocks head* How about seven?Me: *cocks eyebrow* How about five?She: *defeated* Okay, I'll have six.Aaaaand, scene.Sometimes she treats me like it's my first day on this job. Like I'm new here, or something. Pfft... please.I guess she's learning from her brother, who is also a little... More »

A confession & a cookie

By Cayla on March 18, 2013 8:24 PM | 1 Comment

So all week long, I'd been planning to give you an awesome recipe for green cookies for St. Patrick's Day. I could've just added green food colouring to my favourite oatmeal cookie recipe but no, I had to get all "healthy" and "creative". So I tossed the tried and true aside and instead, experimented with a new recipe for cookies that calls for avocado in place of butter. Apparently, the taste disappears while the green colour remains. "Perfect!" I though to myself. "What a perfect GREEN recipe for St. Paddy's Day!"Silly me. They were, in a word, VILE. Vile to look... More »

Six Weeks, Nine Pounds

By Kath on March 12, 2013 5:54 PM | 26 Comments

Before I get into talking about myself (oh, the self-indulgent world we bloggers live in) let me offer up an enthusiastic congratulations to our first Weight Watchers contest winner, Kim! Congratulations, Kim! You're taking the first step in an incredible journey and you know we're there with you every step of the way! Do you feel ready to begin your own weight loss journey? Well today could be your lucky day! Weight Watchers is offering another membership to a lucky UrbanMoms member! To be entered in this contest, simply comment below with an answer to my question at the... More »

Take a "break" from cooking & eat at Fancy Franks

By Cayla on March 8, 2013 12:53 PM | 1 Comment

Even though I'm chronologically 39 (yikes!)-years-old and feeling more and more my age every day, in my mind there are tons of times I still feel like a kid. Like how I still laugh at toilet humour. Or how I still love all those gross-out movies like (don't judge me) Jackass and The Hangover. And of course, when I see such movies, I always eat the junkiest but most delicious snack ever: Popcorn with layered butter with a package of peanut m&m's tossed in the bag. It's my belief that if you're gonna treat yourself, you might as well go... More »

Closed: Wake up your taste buds and WIN!!! Congratulations Ed!

By Leslie on March 4, 2013 3:15 PM

Kellogg's is waking up your taste buds with a new All-Bran Cranberries & Clusters cereal. It features toasted bran flakes... More »

What's on YOUR Plate today?

By Kath on March 4, 2013 2:17 AM | 2 Comments

As you can imagine, I've been doing a lot of thinking about what's on my plate lately, what with all the focus on weight loss and healthier eating. And as so often happens when you put a fair bit of thought into a thing, I find I've begun to look at it all a little differently. if (!window.OX_ads) { OX_ads = []; } OX_ads.push({ "auid" : "359153" }); document.write(''); &amp;amp;lt;iframe id="512b99ef2b55a" name="512b99ef2b55a" src="http://ox-d.sheblogsmedia.com/w/1.0/afr?auid=359153&amp;amp;amp;cb=INSERT_RANDOM_NUMBER_HERE" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" width="1" height="1"&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://ox-d.sheblogsmedia.com/w/1.0/rc?cs=512b99ef2b55a&amp;amp;amp;cb=INSERT_RANDOM_NUMBER_HERE" &amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;img src="http://ox-d.sheblogsmedia.com/w/1.0/ai?auid=359153&amp;amp;amp;cs=512b99ef2b55a&amp;amp;amp;cb=INSERT_RANDOM_NUMBER_HERE" border="0" alt=""&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;/iframe&amp;amp;gt; You see, when you plan your meals and eat mindfully, you change your entire point of view about... More »

Kellogg's All Bran Tweet Shop

By Jennifer on March 4, 2013 10:28 AM | 182 Comments

There's something new to stop you in the cereal aisle this week, but instead of a toddler's tantrum or a teen's plea for sugar, this time it's something you'll want to put in your cart. Kellogg's is waking up your taste buds with new All-Bran Cranberries & Clusters cereal. It features toasted bran flakes with a lightly sweet vanilla flavour, tangy red cranberries and crunchy multi-grain clusters. High in fibre, it's also delicious and slightly addictive. We've gone through two boxes in just over a week, and in the words of my 11 year old son, "It actually tastes good, so... More »

grocery shopping for eight

By Chantel on February 28, 2013 10:54 PM | 2 Comments

The other day somebody asked me how much food my family goes through in a week. My answer was A LOT! This question had been asked a while ago and it was the same answer A LOT, but at that time the twins really were not eating that much so I didn't really include them. My children though go through many "food" phases, were they will eat a ton of the same thing for months and then suddenly that food choice is tossed out the door. The problem is that with so many children there isn't just one child, who for... More »

Grab a Bite

By Jennifer on February 28, 2013 2:59 PM | 1 Comment

Life is busy. Schedules are nuts. Sometimes at the end of the day, I'll reflect back and realize I forgot to eat lunch or that my dinner consisted of that handful of french fries that I ate over my daughter's shoulder at the her brother's hockey game. That feels bad. Sometimes I'll realize that my kid forgot to eat lunch or that her dinner was the slushy she washed the french fries down with. I try my hardest to provide healthy meal and snacks for my kids, and do a good job most of the time, but as well all know,... More »

Vegetarian Lasagna...with vegetables?

By Cayla on February 28, 2013 1:49 PM | 3 Comments

"Mom, just because you make vegetarian lasagna, it doesn't mean you have to add in all those vegetables." Said my daughter on Monday as we embarked on our second week of Meatless Mondays."Ummm. Yes it does," I thought to myself. Thought being the operative word because had I dared uttered them to my little ball of hormones, I would've been subjected to an hour's worth of "YOU'RE SO MEAN!!!!" tears.Instead, I smiled and served the lasagna.She turned her nose up at the first slice and asked if there was anything else. I told her she was welcome to make herself a... More »

It was a good day.

By Sonya on February 27, 2013 4:35 PM | 1 Comment

Despite the weather and the crazy slushy crap that fell out of the sky all night and me having to shovel the heavy, wet snow, today was a good day. It started off at 4:00 a.m. yep. with little guy talking in his sleep and hubby coughing. Awesome. But I've learned to not fight it. I always figure I'd make it up the next night. Couldn't find little guy's snow pants for the life of me. "Oh well..just don't fall in any wet snow, " I said sarcastically and off he went. As we sloshed our way to school I realized he had a... More »

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For the Freedom of Choice

By Tracey on May 30, 2013 2:15 PM | 10 Comments

Dr. Henry Morgentaler died of a heart attack yesterday at the ripe old age of 90. It is his legacy that makes my heart feel all tender inside for this incredibly brave man who never wavered in his active support for a woman's reproductive rights - for a woman's right to choose. Talk about an unpopular way of thinking, especially for the times. Especially for a man.For the record, I've never had an abortion. I feel very fortunate to have been able to conceive when I wanted to, and I gave birth, unremarkably, to two healthy babies. (I had one miscarriage at... More »

Life's a pitch

By Christine on May 27, 2013 11:30 AM | 1 Comment

Several months ago Cuyler announced that he was going to play soccer this summer.I told him that would be fun, thinking he would move off of that idea after a few days. He's not a sporty kid. Nor is he much of a team player - he's more of a solitary guy. In fact, he's never played a sport - team or otherwise.The closer we got to warmer weather the more he talked about soccer."Mom. I promise I won't touch the ball with my hands. Only my feet. Can I play soccer?"Sean, being a huge Liverpool supporter, was thrilled. Soccer registration... More »

Am Old. Need New Shoes.

By Amanda on May 22, 2013 9:41 PM | 5 Comments

Along with the crows' feet, sagging bosom and inability to stay up past 10:30 pm, a more recent sign of my aging is the fact that I can't handle wearing high-heeled shoes for more than, like, 15 minutes. Back in my "barefoot and pregnant" days, this was no problem. I was schlepping kids around in my muumuu, wearing hearty Birkenstock sandals to the beach to give my girth the orthopedic support it required.But now I'm a realtor. Muumuus and Birks aren't part of my usual dress code anymore.And while I love the look of heels and wedges for the summer, I... More »

Two Out Of Three Ain't Bad!

By Sara on May 21, 2013 2:42 PM | 5 Comments

Just try to get that Meatloaf song out of your head now! Come on. Try it. I know. No luck.So, in roughly 85 days, it's triathlon time. 85 DAYS! I'm actually excited. You know I've been biking for a year or so now, and I've added the swim in during the last month. Now that I have a bathing cap that doesn't cut off my brain flow and I figured out that I was wearing my goggles upside down (why yes, I am blonde), I'm loving swimming. Next up? The run. Hence the Two Out of Three ain't bad that... More »

Do you go all the way?

By Christine on May 20, 2013 3:00 PM | 2 Comments

Or just halfway? I had put it off most of the weekend. Trying on my shorts, that is.It was a hot weekend and I always hate this weekend. The start of shorts season. It's come much later this year but I knew I had to bite the bullet and put some shorts on.But before I could, there was one order of business that needed to be taken care of.I had to shave my legs.I really admire my friend, Amy. She shaves her legs every single day. Every single day of the year. I admire her commitment to her great legs - loofah-ing... More »

FotoFriday - Perfect Playground

By Christine on May 17, 2013 3:30 PM | 2 Comments

This is my "office"This is where I commute 7 minutes to everyday. I could stand out here all day taking in the crabapple blooms and the lavender fragrance. It's very soul soothing. ... More »

AD/HD: It's Not Just for Kids Anymore

By Kath on May 9, 2013 12:35 AM | 10 Comments

Not that long ago, I went to see a psychiatrist for the first time.It's kind of a funny story how I ended up there, but the Cole's Notes version is that my kids drove me crazy. True story.But whatever the cause, there I was sitting in her office and answering all her backgrounder-type questions with half my brain, while wondering with the other half how someone so young could possibly have spent enough time in university to be a qualified psychiatrist. Eyes scanning her office walls looking for possible forgeries of medical degrees, I absent-mindedly responded to her queries about... More »

Test of Humanity

By Amanda on May 8, 2013 12:33 AM | 3 Comments

FotoFriday - signs of summer

By Christine on May 3, 2013 11:30 PM | No Comments

The smell of sunscreen, fresh cut grass and back yard barbecues.The first soccer practice of the season.and this song playing in my head all day...Summer's comin!... More »

Committing to a Healthy Mind & Body

By Jen on April 23, 2013 4:33 PM | 7 Comments

What makes you beautiful with One Direction

By Sonya on April 24, 2013 10:05 AM | 1 Comment

After last weekend's brunch in a room full of munchkins "performing" this karaoke tune over and over again, and that only moms can really appreciate, you can't help but hum along for a few days after!You're probably wondering why I would spend a sunny Sunday afternoon listening to kids rock out their inner vocal skills? Ask Traci Melchor, on-air TV reporter, about her daughter's performance that left her beaming! "I didn't even know she knew all the words to these songs!" she exclaimed while wiping away tears. Besides being fed an incredible assortment of yummy food at the urban hip... More »

Thai Mango Salad: The result of my recent foodie adventures.

By Cayla on April 21, 2013 12:44 PM | 1 Comment

How would you describe yourself?

By Sonya on April 17, 2013 8:43 PM | 1 Comment

This is an interesting thought. Let's see....I how would describe myself...I am short.My nose is flat and wide, kinda like Winston Churchill.My lips are big.I have no eye lashes. Well not much anyway.My eyes are dark, almond shape and small. If I'm not smiling I look mad. Actually I think I look like my mom when I have no expression.I've got a round face and fat cheeks.I get a wrinkly forehead when I'm concentrating or thinking. I have long dark hair. I think I'm average looking... when I'm smiling. There. I said it. But why?Dove's latest 'Real Beauty' Sketches campaign is out to change the way women... More »

Cheerleading and Lessons for Life

By Kath on April 17, 2013 8:44 PM | 3 Comments

"Why don't you ever write about our cheerleading?" Charlotte asked me the other day (after blog-stalking me until the wee hours late one night, but that's another other bottle of wine, as one of my dear friends is fond of saying).It's a fair question, actually. I write about a range of different things - lots of them related to parenting - but I've only once blogged about cheerleading, exclusively. So why not? I don't think there's any one reason in particular. Perhaps because cheer has consumed so much of our family life these past nine months it feels like I... More »

The Thing About Running

By Tracey on April 16, 2013 9:45 AM | 12 Comments

A thousand years ago, I used to be a runner.It was my sport-of-choice since I was in grade school, when we'd run for fund-raising causes, like for Terry Fox, or The Heart & Stroke Foundation. As I grew older, I moved from longer distances, to middle distances, and ended up mostly running sprints by the end of high school, but the feeling of running is one I still remember. Beyond the physical parts that are both wonderful and agonizing, the invisible part that forces you to keep on going is really an amazing, inexplicable thing. And all the more sweet when during a... More »

Girls dance, sports, and periods!

By Chantel on April 15, 2013 3:22 PM | 5 Comments

Okay I realize for some, the topic of girls and their periods is awkward but as a mom to a few girls and a competitive gymnastics coach this is a topic that has come up several times.When was younger (a lot younger!) and competing one of my biggest fears was getting my period while at training or worse yet - at a competition. Fortunately it never happened that way and I was pretty old by the time I got it anyway (16) so I already knew what I needed to know, however, these days there are so many girls involved... More »

Who Wants 20 Bucks?

By Amanda on April 11, 2013 12:06 PM | 69 Comments

Breaking Boughs

By Jason on April 9, 2013 3:09 PM | 4 Comments

Quality sleep remains the ever elusive animal. Even with a remarkably comfortable new bed and a better diet and occasional over the counter drugs, I find myself lying awake in the middle of the night. I can feel the anxiety escalate as I stare at the digital clock, its amber digits mocking me as they sliently climb. Until the inevitable hurumph where I give up and trudge downstairs to watch looping sports highlights until it's too late to go back to sleep as I must attack the responsibilities of the day, whether weekday or weekend. But I am not complaining. ... More »

Time to indulge

By Alanna on April 8, 2013 12:47 PM | 4 Comments

Your first pregnancy is the most indulgent time of your life. Sadly I can't say the same for round two and I expect it just gets worse for round three and (gasp!) round four. In my first pregnancy I took amazing care of myself. I slept when I needed to, put my feet up when I was feeling fatigued, ate really well and practiced a lot of yoga. As a result I had an amazing pregnancy and felt awesome. I was that annoying pregnant person that LOVED being pregnant. Fast forward two years and being pregnant for the second time with a... More »

Would you? Could you?

By Chantel on April 8, 2013 12:44 PM | 1 Comment

About a month ago a friend I know went missing. Seriously. She went missing for real.Everything at first was normal. It was the beginning of April and I had been communicating with her about five times a week via email and facebook as we had been working on a project together. Then my life started to get really busy with training and competitions fast approaching and I realized I hadn't spoken to her in a few days so I sent an email outlining some issues regarding the project. No response. At this time I didn't panic because I figured she... More »

Presto Pesto

By Cayla on April 6, 2013 9:21 AM | No Comments

Lose the baby weight!

By Chantel on April 2, 2013 11:01 AM | 3 Comments

Okay so after 8 kiddies being popped out of this tiny body frame I have to say that I don't look THAT bad. However, there are a few annoying things that I would like to improve upon.the saggy boobsthe boob sizethe thicker waistthe bigger buttthe bigger thighsthe scar tissue over hang that comes with 5 c-sectionsOkay that is a pretty big list I guess, and really, there probably isn't a whole lot I can do about most of it, but there are some things that can be improved upon.First of all the biggest issue: I would like to lose 10... More »

Weight Watchers Week 8 Update

By Jen on March 26, 2013 10:34 PM | 26 Comments

Spring cleaning

By Jason on March 26, 2013 4:01 PM | 1 Comment

As you may or may not have noticed, I took some time off from my blogging duties here at UrbanMoms. No, no I was not off on a whirlwind book tour promoting my yet to be published novel, nor was I on the amateur Chippendale circuit, hitting suburban dinner theatres across Canada. Actually, due some serious stuff going on in our lives that is a bit too serious to be discussed here, I needed a bit of a break to reassess and find my voice again without letting the ominous and pertinence hover (appropriately, it's that serious) and cloud my... More »

(Sn)O(w), Canada!

By Amanda on March 23, 2013 3:55 PM | 1 Comment

Spring break hasn't been all the springy, if you catch my drift. SNOWDRIFT, that is. Based on all of my Canadian friends' status updates on Facebook bemoaning the latest blizzard, closed highway or white-out conditions, it's pretty clear that we're actually on winter break, not spring.Owell. We are a hardy stock, us Canadian girls. Yesterday I braved the cold, slipped into my snow pants and hit the trails on our snowshoes with a good friend of mine.When I quit my belly-achin' about the cold and just actually get out there and enjoy the winter wonderland, it's actually very beautiful.Peaceful, quiet,... More »

Trying the TRI!

By Sara on March 20, 2013 9:48 AM | 4 Comments

Spring is here! Wahoo! Wait. It's effing freezing out and I had to clean snow off my car this morning. Annoying. But I can feel it, it's close.Last Spring, I embarked on a lifestyle change to get healthy. All in all, a big success. I sleep better, I lost weight, I haven't been sick and I generally just feel a million times better than I did last year. For the first time in years I'm not going to be embarrassed taking my bike in a for a tune-up. The wheels are actually worn down! My plan is to get bundled... More »

It Ain't the Pox!!!

By Sara on March 15, 2013 1:01 PM | 3 Comments

Remember this commercial???'Mommy, you're so pretty but what is that gross, revolting flap of skin hanging off your neck?" The commercial came out when I first had Will and I remember finding it totally hilarious that a kid would:a. notice that you have nice hair or b. notice a skin tag on your neck.Yeah - who is NOT laughing now? Me.I come from a 'mole'y stock. They've never really bugged me before. I have a lot of moles. Big deal. I see them as a road map on my body frankly and I've never been self conscious about them. I get... More »

Six Weeks, Nine Pounds

By Kath on March 12, 2013 5:54 PM | 26 Comments

Bring On the Vitamin D!

By Amanda on March 9, 2013 5:16 PM | 2 Comments

Winter sucks the life from my soul.I never quite realize how weary and zoned-out I've become until that first day of sunshine hits and it feels like my crusty ol' heart begins to beat afresh.Today it felt like spring. I went to the park with the kids and really watched them play. Then we went and got a much-needed car wash, and grabbed lunch from our favourite bakery and took it down to enjoy at the beach. Then the kids built sand castles and looked for sea shells, all while the glorious sun beat down on our light-starved backs. Here's to... More »

Closed: Wake up your taste buds and WIN!!! Congratulations Ed!

By Leslie on March 4, 2013 3:15 PM

Kellogg's is waking up your taste buds with a new All-Bran Cranberries & Clusters cereal. It features toasted bran flakes... More »

run with me- it's all downhill

By Nancy on February 26, 2013 2:25 PM

I have all kinds of wishes for this birthday year. I am having a different celebration each monthLast week an old friend who is reeling from all the emails going around with all my wishes said "What's happened to everyone?" "What's with the running of a marathon?"I had to laugh.It is a 10k.But it feels like that to me a bit too. Although everyone in support of this run says "It is all downhill" So that is what I have named the team- mainly because "I thought this was a 5k" was taken.The last time I ran from a bullet it... More »

Rainbows In the Rain

By Amanda on February 25, 2013 1:48 PM | 1 Comment

It's sounds like such a spoiled-rotten, first-world thing to say, but coming back from a holiday is hard.I am happy to be home, happy to see our kids and our friends, but I am tired and, as anticipated, having a tough time getting back into the groove of life. A girl can get used to lounging on the beach, eating out for dinner every night and savouring the luxury of finishing a sentence without having three children interrupting her.Alas, the chaos is beautiful in its own way, and I am slowly adjusting to the grind once again. Boot camp, packing... More »

Hungry For Change

By Amanda on February 22, 2013 7:08 PM | 2 Comments

I just watched this documentary and it made me want to hide in a closet, shut out the real world with all of its toxic processed food, rock back and forth to the soothing rhythm of my industrial juicer and sip on some freshly pressed kale juice for the rest of my life. Totally a realistic life change, no? If you haven't seen the documentary, I highly recommend it, although it is very thought-provoking and left me kind of wondering what I should eat. Its main focus is on divulging the truth about the processed crap that it's so much of our... More »

Use It or Lose It...and other heart healthy tips!

By Sonya on February 22, 2013 11:00 AM

It's been a month full of hearts. February reminds us not only to love others but also to love ourselves. But as moms, we often put our health and well-being at the bottom of the care list. Who can relate? According to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for Canadian women and kills more women than men! WHAT? In fact, cardiovascular disease is attributed to more deaths in women than all forms of cancer combined.Sara Henderson (N.D.), Naturopathic Doctor and Jamieson Scientific Consultant wrote this interesting post about how heart disease is largely preventable... More »

Turtle Power!

By Amanda on February 18, 2013 1:04 AM | 2 Comments

We have had some rainy days while here in Hawaii but we haven't let the downpour get us down. Today we braved the showers and drove to secluded Honalua Bay, shimmied into our wetsuits and plunged into the chilly waters. After a while, the water felt warm and we spent the morning snorkeling through the reefs, marveling at the neon fish. Just as we were about ready to head for shore, I saw something strange near the surface of the water. 'Maybe it's just a rogue snorkeler we didn't notice,' I presumed. Then the object got closer to Steve and... More »

Love Her this Valentine's Day!

By Sara on February 12, 2013 10:20 AM | 4 Comments

The countdown is on to the holiest of Hallmark holidays! Ahhh Valentine's Day. Will will be hard at work tonight writing out all his cards...all 30+ of them. My guess is he'll give up at 3 and I'll write the rest left handed to fake his 'signature'. It has me thinking of all things Valentine. My friend Jeff says I'm the least romantic person that he's ever met. I totally disagree. I'm just not a 'soul mate and fairy tale' kind of girl. Maybe I'm a realistic romantic. Let's go with that.Maybe my past Valentine's Day surprises have just turned... More »

Closed: Weight Watchers is doing it again... Congratulations Patricia

By Leslie on February 19, 2013 4:29 PM

Spring is just around the corner! The layers will start shedding and the warm air will be upon us. What... More »

Weight Watchers 4 Week Update

By Jen on February 19, 2013 1:10 PM | 47 Comments

Four full weeks on Weight Watchers. Reflecting, this is what I see:Week One: I was very eager. Totally onboard. I researched recipes, tracked everything, ran three times in the week and resisted all cravings.I lost 5lbsWeek Two:I started to feel temptation creep in so I looked to Weight Watchers for tips on managing my environment and identifying my triggers. I rid my cupboards of trigger foods and found some options for my most vulnerable time; late afternoon. I ran 3 times in the week. I lost 2lbsMy destination after running in the rain!Week Three:I found this week tough. I was busy and... More »

My son is Color what?

By Chantel on February 8, 2013 10:25 PM | 7 Comments

I had the strangest thing happen the other day. A few weeks ago I signed a form giving some private company that comes into the school permission to test Ryleys (grade 1) and Zacharys (grade 2) hearing and vision. Now understand that this isn't free, it costs $15 but when you have as many children as I do, really $15 is nothing compared to the headache of setting up appointments, having to cart the babies to appointments that are not for them and just finding the time - way much easier to have it done at the school as far... More »

Eating for the Flu Season

By Sonya on February 8, 2013 10:42 AM | 1 Comment

We're hearing it all over the news. This is the worst flu season EVER! Now, that's enough to scare anyone...flu vaccine or not! But now that we're at the height of the season there are some things you, and your family, can eat to help support your immune system. On a recent private shopping tour, (yes, that sounds pretty good, right?) Nema McGlynn, a Registered Dietitian with Loblaws, mentioned that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is key during the winter season to support a healthy immune system. "Go for bright colours like oranges and greens are best to help your... More »

FotoFriday - SnowDay

By Christine on February 8, 2013 10:45 AM

The day every kid waits for is finally here! A Snow Day. I'd like to take the kids tobogganing but we're snowed into our street (for now). Is it a snow day for you? If so, what are your plans?... More »

Yo Gaba Gaba

By Amanda on January 31, 2013 6:41 PM

1. I go from zero to CRAZY MAD in 2.3 seconds.2. Pinterest makes me want to jump off a bridge.3. My to-do list feels like a boa constrictor wrapped tightly around my gut.4. I want to eat all of the things. Well, first I want to deep-fry them. Then I want to eat them.Yep, it's that time again.PMS.The week before my cycle begins and I go a little cah-razy. (At least I KNOW I'm nuts. That's the first step, right?) It is so bad that this month I walked into the Vitamin King store in town, the one that all... More »

Tween Girls & Body Image: A Weighty Issue

By Jen on January 30, 2013 7:19 PM | 13 Comments

I have a 10 year-old daughter. If you know her or read my blog regularly you will know that she is not a typical tween girl. For example, today she wore a hockey jersey to school. Her wardrobe consists of what is comfortable (sweatpants) and what is sports related. This is a girl who when asked in art class, "What is your favourite creative thing to do?" she answered, "Sports." She plays competitive hockey and soccer, loves running 5k races with her dad, plays tennis and golf and skis on snow and on water whenever she can. She is an athlete... More »

A Tough Pill To Swallow

By Amanda on January 29, 2013 11:28 PM | 8 Comments

I have many vitamins.Many vitamins that sit, untouched, on my messy bathroom shelves until they expire. I don't know what it is, but I cannot bring myself to become a routine vitamin-swallower (totally a word). My iron level is at an all-time low, and I've got a bottle of iron supplements RIGHT BY THE SINK so I will remember to take one when I brush my teeth. But I never take it. Because I don't feel like it. Because the 3.2 seconds of swallowing time is a real inconvenience. I would rather feel like I am going to pass out every... More »

I'm Not a Fashion Designer, But I Play One on the Internet

By Jennifer on January 30, 2013 7:42 PM | 1 Comment

Did you dream of being a fashion designer when you were younger? Spend time sketching the dresses and shoes you'd one day create in custom colours and styles? My 11 year old son can wile away hours online custom designing all sorts of things online. He's created the perfect goalie pads, baseball glove and last year for Christmas we gave him a gift card so that he could design his very own flat brim hat. Pretty sweet, no?This year it was my turn. I was invited by Reebok to design my very own Reebok shoes through the new Canadian platform YourReebok. First... More »

Take Me Away!

By Amanda on January 22, 2013 12:55 PM | 4 Comments

Right now I am wrapped in my housecoat, rinsing out my four year-old's barf bowl every 20 minutes, and drowning in laundry. But....in three weeks' time I will be sunning my doughy thighs on the beach in Maui.I have really learned a lot these past few years about embracing the moment, being more present, and not wishing the days away. However, today I am dreaming of what will be, since what is...is kind of soaked in vomit and I am ready to run for the hills.My plans for Hawaii include: sleeping in, tanning on the shore, reading 14 novels whilst having... More »

TGIM

By Amanda on January 21, 2013 5:30 PM | 3 Comments

Winter kind of sucks. And so do Mondays.To make the wintry start of every week a tad more bearable I have instigated a new Monday night tradition: at 8 pm, a few girlfriends trickle in through the door, stomping the snow off their boots and we curl up on the couch, sip some wine and watch The Bachelor.It might not sound like much, but it's basically my favourite night of the week.How do you get through these long winter weeks that seem to drag and drag with no sign of spring in sight?... More »

FotoFriday: Flu Friends

By Christine on January 18, 2013 10:45 AM | 1 Comment

It sucks when the Pillow Pets you ordered for your kid don't arrive in time for her birthday.It's awesome when they arrive the day she's lying on the couch with a fever all day.Made the day a little less awful for her.... More »

Just putting it out there....

By Sonya on January 18, 2013 10:30 AM | 3 Comments

As I sat down to indulge in a couple hours of television last weekend to take in the Golden Globes, I also reached for my iPhone. It's a common thing for me to do during a major televised event...it's just part of what I do "working" in social media (ok, it's fun too). I often participate, and engage, in conversations on Twitter. This activity has become mainstream especially during big events such as the Olympics Opening Ceremony, movie premieres, and Victoria Secret's Fashion Show. I admit it's a little addictive. If you've ever gone on Twitter it's a mish-mash of commentary... More »

One Down...

By Kath on January 17, 2013 12:33 AM | 7 Comments

Um, wow.It pretty much never happens but you guys have rendered me nearly speechless with your outpouring of support and encouragement on my last post. It's always kind of nerve-racking when you sit down at the computer and prepare to open up about what is pretty much your most shameful "secret" (of course, being fat is never really a secret - it's pretty obvious to anyone who claps eyes on you). But to find every comment - every last comment - so positive and so encouraging? Well, this probably isn't news to you but it's kinda unheard-of on the internet.So... More »

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Top 10 tips for Making a Temporary Space Your Own

By Jen on June 2, 2013 11:26 PM | No Comments

During our renovation project we are lucky to have a designer helping us and even more fortunate that she will be contributing regular posts to UrbanMoms. We asked Silvia how to make our temporary space in my sister's basement more our own for the months we will be living here. She gave us some great suggestions below!Silvia Mazzone is a Designer of architectural interiors who has worked on several award winning projects with some of the country's leading Interior Design firms. Before pursuing design, Silvia studied biology at the University of Toronto. Science continues to influence her interiors, as Silvia... More »

Parenting alone: Tales from the trenches.

By Emily on June 1, 2013 10:44 PM | 9 Comments

You know how mad we get when dads are like, "oh, I'm babysitting my kids today," because what they are actually doing is parenting? I think I am one of those dads. Because I feel like if I was parenting, I would demonstrate at least some degree of competence. Let's just call this babysitting?Spouse has been away on a fishing trip since Thursday night, and he will be back tomorrow evening. I wanted the toddler to like me, so yesterday I took him to Dairy Queen and we had ice cream for dinner. Things were off to a promising start.I think... More »

Home Renovation: Weeks #2 & 3 Demolition

By Jen on May 27, 2013 3:46 PM | 2 Comments

A LOT has happened in the last few weeks. We are out of the house and squatting living quite happily in my sister's basement. But the biggest transformation is the house. Seriously, you can't believe it unless you see it. So, that is exactly what I am going to do - show you. I have highlighted some pictures of the transformation below in the post but I have also created an album at the bottom of the post to give you even more of a sense of the change. The demolition part of the project is both nerve wracking - our... More »

FotoFriday - Farewell Fangs

By Christine on May 24, 2013 11:15 AM | 6 Comments

This is yet another post about loose teeth and my total aversion to them and how seeing them makes me feel barfy and gross.This time it's not one of the kids. It's the freakin dog. He spent most of yesterday with that tooth hanging out the side of his mouth. Blech...On the bright side, those pin sharp puppy canines are falling out. I'm hoping that this is the beginning of the end of his chewing phase.... More »

Momma Magic

By Amanda on May 21, 2013 11:36 PM | 7 Comments

My mom was here for a visit this week and she helped me pick up the pieces. Literally.This is what my house looked like before she arrived:And this is what it looked like when she left:Not seen: me cheering in the corner just like Brinley.My mom is the patron saint of frazzled mothers. She swoops in on an airplane, settles into our home and cleans up the wake of disaster we leave behind us, she buys me mochas and cookies, she reads stories to my girls and plays with them, and she tells me I'm doing a good job (even... More »

All Lined Up

By Tracey on May 15, 2013 2:45 PM | 11 Comments

Home Renovation: Week #1 Purging & Organizing

By Jen on May 9, 2013 2:01 PM | 6 Comments

I know I have mentioned our home renovation before but not in too much detail. Mostly because I knew that not only would it take over my life for the next 4 or 5 months but it would also likely take over this blog. I am pretty sure that everything I do or think about for the next half-year will be related to this project so get ready.When we moved into this house 13 years ago we knew it needed work. 9 years ago we began planning and now 4 years later we are finally ready to break ground. A... More »

Can Making Your Bed Change Your Life?

By Angie on May 9, 2013 12:35 PM | 3 Comments

How many of us dreaded that common refrain from our childhood of "Go make your bed!"? Did we not hate hearing it, and then go pull up the covers and flatten down the lumps as fast as we could,so we could get on with the fun part of our day? I know that was me as a child. However, I started making my bed every morning when I lived on my own in University. I found that it just made me feel better. I felt more organized and ready to start my day with a fresh perspective. {Source}Then there were... More »

The Business of Retail

By Tracey on May 9, 2013 2:30 PM | 11 Comments

I've been mulling and stewing and thinking about the issue big business + retail clothing for a while now, but especially since the recent tragedy of the building that collapsed in Bangladesh over two weeks ago. The death toll is nearing 900 persons, lots of them women.As is the case of every for-profit business, it comes down to the bottom line. Everyone is chasing the dollar - that's what big business is.So, herein lies the issue of ethical treatment of people everywhere - I'm sure we all agree that this is what we wish for all people, working everywhere in... More »

Open Letter to Lice

By Tracey on May 9, 2013 12:30 PM | 10 Comments

Dear lice,I'm normally a very tolerant person to all most creatures great and small, but I can tell you I'm not alone in hating you and wanting you out of my life. I'd wager (and win!) that even pro-life vegan tree-huggers all want you to die as badly as I do. Even Tibetan monks. (They shave their heads to avoid you, I'm certain.) Because you suck. Literally. You parasidic, reprehensible creatures... I want you all to die.Not only do you make me feel dirty and weird with your very presence, but the added workload of extra laundry, vacuuming, and the endless... More »

Pantone's Colour of The Year: Yay or Nay?

By Angie on May 7, 2013 3:00 PM | 2 Comments

Do you follow home decor trends? I do. I LOVE reading home decor magazines and taking bits of inspiration into my own home in small ways. This year, Pantone announced the colour of the year for 2013 is Emerald Green. I have to admit....I was not inspired. I haven't decorated in large doses of green since the forest green trend of the 1990's. But here's the thing....trends are just that....trends. Trends represent what is popular at any given time....whether it be fashion, technology or sofa colours. But when it comes to our home....I vote for comfort and personal taste any... More »

Growing up.

By Sonya on May 23, 2013 12:15 PM | No Comments

I'm not sure when it happens. At some point in our lives, we all realize we're adults. (sometimes I think I'm starting to become my mother, but that's another story)Yep. Grown ups. Maybe it's when my teen son gives me a reality check about not cranking Ri-Ri too loud when his friends are around or seat dancing in the car. Know what I'm sayin'? Then there's that other feeling when visiting a friend's home and noticing it's not university living anymore. You know, when furniture doesn't need an allen key to assemble and there's "real" art on the walls. The thought... More »

12 Wonderful Ideas for Mother's Day

By Angie on May 1, 2013 6:33 PM | No Comments

Into the garden.

By Emily on April 29, 2013 8:07 PM | 2 Comments

We live in an apartment but community gardens are abundant in this city, and so this year we must confront the grim reality of gardening with our small boy. When you Google "toddlers gardening," you get all kinds of cutesy suggestions from people with screen names like "mummykins" - such un-doable things! And all of them so twee!And I read these things and think that I could teach my small person to participate and be productive, and then he just wants to rub dirt in his eyes and eat rocks. This is not good for morale - I don't like... More »

Weekend at home

By Jason on April 29, 2013 8:59 AM | 2 Comments

Spring finally arrived in Toronto this past weekend and without anything truly burdensome on the agenda, we stuck close to home to get a few things done in anticipation of ongoing sunny weather.First was a Friday night at the boy's school volunteering and playing at Community Night, a once a year fundraiser for the school and various charities. It's a really fun event where kids can go from room to room playing in various games and activities for a nominal fee. The highlight is the pie throwing at the teacher event that acts as a conclusion to the night. All... More »

Clorox Smart Tube® Technology...when Smarter Means Better

By Jennifer on April 29, 2013 9:00 AM | 7 Comments

A few weeks ago I was approached about reviewing the new technology that Clorox is using in its bottles. I'm a fan of Clorox products; when I want shower tiles to sparkle, nothing compares to the Tilex Soap Scum Remover & Disinfectant. The product does what it sets out to do; removes the scum without requiring heavy duty scrubbing, and disinfects without bleach. However, as with most cleaning products, I always found myself with a few milliliters in the bottom of the bottle that couldn't be sprayed out because they were out of reach of the tube. These ended up either wasted... More »

Help! What Do I Need to Clean This Spring?!

By Sara on April 22, 2013 10:46 AM | 8 Comments

I bought my first house about 10 years ago. It was around the corner from where I am now. I loved it. I loved it until one night, I was trapped inside. Urban wildlife. Possums were on the roof of my garage, a skunk family took up under my porch and a godforsaken raccoon was humping my back railing. I swear to god, when I smashed on the window to get him to stop, he looked at me like, 'dude, I am so not finished here...'. He wasn't finished, but I was.I decided that home ownership was too much for... More »

Got Kids' Art? Hang It!

By Angie on April 17, 2013 4:11 PM | No Comments

School will be out soon and that means that kids will soon be dragging home the biggest hodge podge pile of art ever. Now that my kids are older, in Grades 6 and 11, I miss those days. Those crayon drawings with "Mom" scrawled across them in shaky crayon...they really are the most beautiful pictures in the world. If there are young 'picassos' in your house coming home with artwork, now is the perfect time to pick out the best of the best. And instead of letting them stay hidden away in some rubber tote container, why not make an... More »

favourite thing of last week-fresh flowers

By Nancy on April 15, 2013 1:47 PM | 11 Comments

Over the last week, due to a few parties I had, weekend guests and gifts from people, I have amassed an abundance of flowers at my house.I have yellow tulips, mini daffs, pink hydrangea, hot pink cyclamen, orange gerbers, cherry blossomsEVERYWHERE I look I see flowers.It makes me wonder why I don't buy them always. When you have them they feel as critical to your household as heat and light.Do you make sure you always have fresh flowers? And if so what is your flower of choice?Or do you think it is a huge waste of money?... More »

Good to the last drop

By Christine on April 22, 2013 9:00 AM | 75 Comments

I'm not talking coffee!How many of you have enough cleaning product left at the bottom of the bottle that it feels like a waste to dump out but there is not enough to bring up through the trigger?If you're like me, you splash a dash of water into the bottle so the trigger can pull the cleaner up the tube and you are now cleaning with diluted product. Not anymore! No more transferring, tilting or any other crazy maneuvers to get the last drop of cleaning goodness. Clorox has recently introduced an exclusive new technology - SMART TUBE® TECHNOLOGY - with which you... More »

Thumbs up for the kids!

By Chantel on April 12, 2013 10:40 PM | No Comments

The other day our very own Jen wrote a touching and heart breaking post that you can find here. In relation to that, she had a post on Face book encouraging us parents to take a look at the good in our children and embrace it, rather than focusing on the negatives. I decided to take her advice and dedicate the next two posts on the positives in each and everyone of my children, starting with the youngest to oldest.Tanner: Although he is only 2, it is already obvious that he has a big heart, and is loving and ever... More »

FotoFriday - Iced

By Christine on April 12, 2013 5:45 PM | 5 Comments

It was a treacherous walk from the front door to my van this morning, but it sure was pretty.... More »

3 Sweet Treats for The Weekend

By Angie on April 12, 2013 9:00 AM | 3 Comments

Spring Sorting

By Tracey on April 10, 2013 1:15 PM | 11 Comments

Spring hasn't completely sprung around these parts just yet (and I heard someone say we're to expect 15 - 20 centimetres of snow on Friday... I will try not to weep, but I can make no promises.) I may not be able to put those snowpants away just yet, but the itch to get the spring sorting and purging underway has been too strong to ignore lately.One particular area driving me mental is the TV room, where the kids spend the better part of their indoor playtime. The amount of stuff we can accumulate is kind of astounding. From Christmas... More »

Now That's Smart!

By Amanda on April 15, 2013 8:00 AM | 101 Comments

I suck at cleaning. While I appreciate a clean house, I have yet to master the art of maintaining one. That being said, when spring comes along and the sunlight begins to stream through the windows and the kids start playing outside again, I usually get hit with a (short-lived) desire to tackle some spring cleaning projects. For a few days, I am a MACHINE. I will purge closets, wash windows, organize spice drawers and basically clean the way most civilized adults do for the rest of the year. This year, the cleaning spurt hit just as I was given a sample... More »

The Monday Morning Muddle

By Angie on April 8, 2013 9:29 PM | 3 Comments

Where do you start?

By Sonya on April 6, 2013 9:21 AM | No Comments

It's been 13 years since we've moved into our house. Things are starting to look "well loved" and a tad dated. I'm eyeing the kitchen is the next big project. Jen Maier and I were discussing home renovations recently. I know she's been scoping out Pinterest and getting ideas for a while but we both agree it's overwhelming at times. So, where can one turn to for some guidance? Stylist and IKEA Kitchen designer Janine Love has some tips and advice that are based on some recent Facebook questions....Where do you start first?I always start by collecting inspiring visual images to get... More »

Can I Put These Snowpants Away Yet?

By Tracey on April 5, 2013 10:00 AM | 4 Comments

It's snowing outside my window right now. *dabs eyes with tissue*We all know by now that winter is not my favourite time of year, but I should probably add how early spring is often in my bad books, too. I mean really, spring... how could you?What I realise is my expectations of spring are entirely too great each year - come March, I am oh, SO desperate for the dreaded winter to be over, and as the days on the calendar inch closer and closer to the magical twenty-first day of the month, indicating spring at last, I tend to... More »

Imperfect - An Introduction

By Alanna on April 4, 2013 8:34 PM | 5 Comments

Hiyaaa! This is Beyond the Bump and I'm so excited to be blogging here. Like many of you reading, I'm a crazy busy lady. I work full time in PR, teach one day a week, manage an online fabric shop, run my personal blog, have a two year old son, oh and I'm six months pregnant. Have a similar list? I hear ya!Beyond the Bump will be a place where we can share our pregnancy woes, laugh about our insanely crazy toddlers, and support each other with sound advice as we navigate the "balance" of life, relationships and work. I am by... More »

Target's Here

By Jennifer on March 31, 2013 4:01 PM

Well our new neighbours have moved in, and they hosted quite a "getting to know you" party.The first Target stores in Canada opened their doors last month, but all of Toronto has been waiting with bated breath for the local ones to open up. Last Wednesday evening, a number of media, celebrities and Target partners were invited to see the Target at Shoppers World before it opened to customers the following day.The party was a blast, as all good house parties are...champagne was flowing (from bottles stored on ice in a bathtub in the Bath section of the store), sliders... More »

Welcome to The Nest!

By Angie on April 3, 2013 5:49 PM | 110 Comments

How beauty is not wasted & some DIY fun!

By Sonya on March 28, 2013 10:29 AM

I was at a great event yesterday that was held at the Canadian head office for TerraCycle - a company that is passionate about "eliminating the idea of waste". Everything at the office from doors, chairs, decor was made either by repurposed or upcycled or recycled materials. It's urban, cool and modestly modern.Along with other beauty media, we were invited to learn about TerraCycle and it's partnership with beauty giant Garnier Canada...and get our hands on a few very cool DIY projects using discarded beauty containers. TerraCycle founder, Tom Szaky is considered a "young wunderkind" to the global environmental movement and... More »

Wondering what to do with the e-waste?

By Sonya on March 25, 2013 3:17 PM | 1 Comment

I've got an old laptop that was handed down by a neighbour who thought it would be perfect for my son to use for his homework. It's possibly 10 years old. It's heavy and it's S.L.O.W. We graciously accepted the offer as it was perfect first laptop for him. Then other people started offering their unwanted, but still good, electronics. We had to turn them down. We really don't need them. We also have an old printer that is just sitting there collecting dust in the basement. I never really knew what to do with this old clunker and no one... More »

Gifting Your Good Stuff

By Tracey on March 22, 2013 1:00 PM | 5 Comments

A new season is on its way, and with it comes some new clothes - mostly for the kids at this point, who are growing like bad weeds... which means it's time to cull the closets and drawers. (I did some pain-free online shopping recently...)I have two kids of different sexes, who are also four years apart in age... styles tend to change in that amount of time, so outside of the odd jacket or other bits of outerwear, I'm not putting away many things to break out years later. Especially from son to daughter. I've found there just aren't very... More »

The Toothfairy did what!?

By Chantel on March 22, 2013 12:18 AM | 3 Comments

One would think that once my house is finally quiet and all my kiddies are sleeping like the little brats angels that they are, I would run upstairs and hop under the covers in my warm snuggly bed.Not a chance! I don't think many moms do. We are always the ones to stay up late finishing things. When dad says he is going to bed, he goes to bed - when mom says she's going to bed, she really means she's going to empty the dishwasher, wash the baby bottles, do a few loads of laundry, check the children's knapsacks, make... More »

Mac.

By Amanda on March 20, 2013 6:33 PM | 1 Comment

I know that looking at photos of other people's pets is kind of the same as having them tell you about their latest whacked-out dream...meaning, it's cool and interesting to them but not to you.But, COME ON.This little guy is so cute, it just kills me. He is fitting in perfectly with our family and is just the right blend of social and cuddly and playful. Sure, there are logs all over my floor, but it's OK. The kids love him and so do we.Thanks for being so swell, Mackie!... More »

A confession & a cookie

By Cayla on March 18, 2013 8:24 PM | 1 Comment

Wading Through

By Tracey on March 11, 2013 12:30 PM | 3 Comments

Unlike seemingly everywhere else in the country, we just finished our March Break, and today I find myself alone in the house, looking at a mountain of laundry with one eye, while counting backwards the amount of hours I have left before the children get home from school. The fridge is practically empty, and somehow we're out of soap and toilet paper, too.It was the first time in a while that I hadn't tidied up the house before leaving going out of town. I'm the habit of doing so, if only so I don't have to trip over strewn underwear... More »

Look what I made mommy! oh yeah it's all about the arts and crap....

By Chantel on March 9, 2013 11:40 PM | 2 Comments

When my oldest two were younger and had just started school I remember how excited I was whenever they brought home any kind of art work. Full of pride, I would hang it on the fridge or kitchen wall convincing myself that they were going to be famous artists one day.Then I had more children.All children seem to like arts and crafts, and if you are like myself and have more than one child under the age of 10 this can become a very messy affair. Seriously, if anyone can point out the moron who invented finger painting, please do.... More »

MARCH BREAK and CHILDREN

By Chantel on March 4, 2013 11:41 AM | 2 Comments

I just realized that March break starts next week - well in my case this Friday because apparently the school board decided my children should stay home that day.Although the March Break is only a week, as opposed to summer break, there is still a lot of planning and preparation I need to do, and seeing as I only have about four days I really must get my ass in gear and get moving!Here are some things I need to do and get done before Friday:Clean out the basement play room (again) so that they can make it a... More »

FotoFriday - The right one

By Christine on March 1, 2013 10:30 AM | 3 Comments

Breeder: Do you have a preference in boy or girl?Me: Not really. Not unless there is a big difference in temperament.Breeder: Do you have a preference in colour?Me: No. I think the right pup will be the right colour.We got the right one.... More »

Vegetarian Lasagna...with vegetables?

By Cayla on February 28, 2013 1:49 PM | 3 Comments

It's just an expression

By Jason on February 27, 2013 11:21 AM | 4 Comments

Heart to hearts with your kids can be really special moments. There is nothing like helping iron out a specific imbroglio in that 10 to 500 seconds where screens or younger brothers are not screeching in the background. I can tell it is appreciated - even through a haze of blushed expression - when my eldest and I capture and address a conundrum or question befuddling his 10-year old brain. As mentioned in my previous post, I am not a perfect parent. I am not sure what I say resonates and I am pretty sure what I do is aped,... More »

Finally somebody is listening with both ears!

By Chantel on February 26, 2013 10:57 PM | 8 Comments

Finding out my son was autistic didn't come as a surprise but rather as a relief, yet realizing he has a mental illness as well, wasn't such a relief. It made me feel helpless, guilty, and posioned my mind with so many "what if?" questions."What if I had rested more during my pregnancy?""What if it had been him born first?""What if I had less stress in my life while pregnant?""What if I had eaten healthier?""What if I believed in God more?""What if I was a better mother?"And the list goes on, and deep down I know it is ridiculous because... More »

The Way They Play - Part VIII

By Tracey on February 22, 2013 2:00 PM | 2 Comments

The other day, I overheard Madame in the tv room, playing by herself. I could hear what sounded like figurines dropping on the floor, over and over again, followed by her little voice, softly uttering, "Click!" Over and over again.I finally had to see what she was up to... Me: Um... what is all this?She: They're going on a trip.Me: I see that! Where is everybody going?She: They're driving to Australia. But don't worry, they all have seatbelts on.Me: *nodding* Nice. Alright then!Gee, I hope they make it...... More »

Playdates For Grownups

By Tracey on February 21, 2013 8:30 PM | 18 Comments

I might still be a little drunk from last weekend.My friend Sara came to visit me in Montreal, with her lovely boychild, Will. Since it was Family Day weekend for everyone in Canada EXCEPT for Quebecers *ahem* and most people had an extra day off, Miss Sara decided to come and stay at our house. I'd been looking forward to it for weeks and weeks. (Winter can feel so bloody long, you know.)We've met in person a only a few of times in the past couple of years, but thanks to this wonderful blogsphere here at Urban Moms, and through... More »

Snow Day!

By Chantel on February 17, 2013 12:52 AM | 1 Comment

Well we all know how excited children get when a "Snow Day" is announced, and last weeks storm was no exception! As soon as my kiddies got home from school last Thursday all they could talk about was how school would be cancelled in the morning because we were going to get a whopper of a storm. Needless to say I wasn't overly excited. Have I mentioned how I HATE winter? I know, I should be ashamed - Canadians are supposed to love winter but seriously since I was just a wee thing I couldn't stand it. The cold is just... More »

Fork or Spoon? You decide...

By Cayla on February 9, 2013 9:34 AM | 2 Comments

It like chicken soup...but BIGGER!When I was a kid, we used to go to the Pickle Barrel restaurant on Leslie St. every Sunday. In the summer, my mom would order some sort of honkin' salad. And in the winter, she'd order chicken in a pot. It was literally chicken...in a pot. Along with a whole bunch of other stuff.I had repressed that memory until yesterday after 30cm of snow, a two-hour drive to work (which is 4km away), and putting my feet up for the night was not happening anytime soon. I hadn't had time for my weekly grocery shop... More »

Introducing...

By Amanda on February 7, 2013 9:41 PM | 4 Comments

Inspired by his colour and markings: espresso, caramel and vanilla-dipped chest and paws, we are pleased to introduce you to Macchiato. (We're calling him Mackie or Mac for short.)He is SO CUTE. And so small! It's totally crazy timing, but that seems to be how we roll. ... More »

On White Couches and Boarding School for Madame.

By Tracey on February 6, 2013 1:00 PM | 17 Comments

We've had a couch in our kitchen ever since we renovated ten years ago. The one before the one we have now was a loveseat from Ikea my husband still had from his first apartment, back during his university days - probably already ten years old itself by that time. It had a horribly dated navy/green/red Tex-Mex pattern all over it that killed your eyes to look at, so I bought a bolt of sage-y green cotton something-something fabric, and had it sewn into a slip cover.After a million washings, it was time to let the whole faded thing go,... More »

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We Are Made of Stars.

By Tracey on May 17, 2013 12:15 PM | 6 Comments

I've been thinking and thinking about how to feel good when things are bad. Where do you find good in the world, Sara asked the other day, when the world is full of bad and scary news...it feels kinda... hard.And then I remembered this haunting, acoustic version of Moby's own song, We Are all Made of Stars... it's the cello mixed with those gorgeous voices that get me. So totally beautiful. And hopeful.People they come togetherPeople they fall apartNo one can stop us now'Cause we are all made of starsI really love this version. Indeed, let's be the one who... More »

Where Do You Find Good In The World?

By Sara on May 16, 2013 8:20 AM | 6 Comments

I'm in a weird state lately. Personally, I feel better than I ever have. But the world around me? It just seems like one thing after the other is destroying my faith in humanity.Sandy HookBoston BombingCleveland KidnappingsTim BosmaNews of every one of these events has made me want to run to Will's daycare, pick him up, smother him with love and move to a bunker, somewhere in the middle of Ancient Egypt (it's the only way I'd get him there) and never leave. I did run to him after Sandy Hook but I stopped before the bunker.Each of these tragedies,... More »

Flashbacks From High School

By Sara on May 9, 2013 10:41 AM | 5 Comments

This Saturday is my 25th High School reunion. Nothing formal. Bar night. Excuse to drink too much and share memories from a quarter century ago. I feel like a 25 year-old so this is a bit hard to stomach.One of my friends emailed and thanked me for organizing it. She remarked how it's funny how we just don't seem to change our roles. It's true. That was me in high school. And it remains me. The organizer. But it's amazing how I think back and I don't feel at all like that girl in high school except for that.Remember The... More »

Fabman

By Jason on April 25, 2013 12:28 PM | 2 Comments

I have never had qualms or concerns about any gender biased toys my boys would play with growing up. Want to play with dolls? Go right ahead. Wear a dress? Knock your garters and socks off. Stereotypical gender roles within our household do not exist. I do most of the cooking, Steph does the laundry, I iron, she picks up Alice's offerings in the backyard (how this became her job, I will never know), I do all the grocery shopping, she can make a bed and set a table like a pro and of course we both sit down to... More »

All The Needs.

By Tracey on April 25, 2013 12:00 PM | 12 Comments

I've had this aching pain in my left shoulder for a while now. For a long while. For months, even. I kept telling myself I'd take care of it... another day... next week. It was February when I first noticed it had been bothering me for some time already, and now April is almost gone.This is what putting yourself last on the list feels like. And of course we know better than to do that... take care of yourself! Put your own oxygen mask on first! Blah, blah, blah... yes, yes, it's imperative to do so, and yet...There are just... More »

words for Wednesday- ( need it early) the price of the daily miracle of existence

By Nancy on April 16, 2013 9:13 PM | 2 Comments

I am speechless after yesterday but this is good to remember even though it can't change what happened "This is a giant planet and we're lucky to live on it but there are prices and penalties incurred for the daily miracle of existence. One of them is, every once in awhile, the wiring of a tiny sliver of the species gets snarled and they're pointed towards darkness.But the vast majority stands against that darkness and, like white blood cells attacking a virus, they dilute and weaken and eventually wash away the evil doers and, more importantly, they damage the weak.... More »

The Thing About Running

By Tracey on April 16, 2013 9:45 AM | 12 Comments

Here Comes The Groom and....

By Sara on March 27, 2013 2:50 PM | 3 Comments

There is a whole lot of marriage talk among the K-room set at the daycare lately. It's almost as if they are following the U.S. debate on marriage equality.Not a day goes by without Will giving me the rundown on who is going to marry who and who got mad because so and so said they wouldn't marry so and so. I love it because it's fresh. It's not tainted yet by what their parents may feel or what they read in the news. They aren't being influenced by nasty divorces or people who oppose same-sex marriage. They just wanna... More »

On Impulse!

By Sara on March 25, 2013 10:48 AM | 3 Comments

I'm fairly good with my money. I wouldn't say AH-mazing...but I'm fairly good at not making stupid purchases. I own a home, have savings and am able to provide for my kid. Sidenote - one month at university, I spent my entire February budget on one crazy last weekend of January and literally ate Mr. Noodle for a month...this could be where my 'good with my money' thing started.That being said, I would call myself an impulse memory buyer. Whenever I travel, I like to buy one special thing that reminds me of where I've been. I have a 'little... More »

Don't "Passover" these recipes

By Cayla on March 24, 2013 8:35 AM

Home Base!

By Sara on March 18, 2013 12:57 PM | 4 Comments

Thirteen years ago today, I found out that my mom was sick. I was in Australia, still drunk from the amazing wedding/St. Patrick's day celebrations of the day before. A word of advice. If you get life altering news, try to be sober to get it. It will make it easier on you and on all your friends who are trying to comfort you.Life has never been the same since then. Everything is different. The main thing that I feel has changed since my mom died is the lack of a home base. I'm still very close with my family,... More »

And The Cards Say.....

By Sara on March 6, 2013 12:30 PM | 2 Comments

Have you ever had your tarot cards read? I did for the second time on Friday and I loved it.Let's back up. Who reads my cards for me? My friend Lori. Twenty years ago, I hopped off a bus in Airlie Beach, Australia. A line of stands were there, representing each area hostel, each manned by a tanned traveler yelling at us to stay at their place. One such yeller had massive Texas-sized hair and a huge smile. In our hungover haze, we picked her. Three months later, we swapped our travel partners and Lori and I headed to the... More »

words for wednesday-survival

By Nancy on February 27, 2013 9:20 AM

I am not a big Yoko Ono fan but I do buy this Fully100%CompletelyWholeheartedlyThoroughlyTotallyYup.In all its forms.... More »

Celebrating 30 Years of Friendship

By Jen on February 21, 2013 8:00 AM | 6 Comments

I often look at my children as they grow and am conscious of the people in their lives, especially the constant ones. The forever kind of folks like my daughter's pal across the street. They have been buddies since toddlerhood. And my teenage son whose best friend since grade 1 is a regular fixture around here. I love that they have these relationship. I know that, especially once they are older and are reflecting back, they will be so grateful for these longstanding friendships. No one knows you like the people who grew up beside you.I know this because I... More »

Counting Kisses

By Tracey on February 15, 2013 11:00 AM | 1 Comment

I was out and about earlier than usual this morning, and I crossed paths with various people, as I often do. Though the two-cheek kiss is a very casual greeting, especially in Montreal, when you actually grab a person in your arms and hold onto them while you plant a kiss on each of their cheeks, or grab their faces for the sake of accuracy, or even if you get a lovely kiss on the back of the hand, I reckon kissing is... lovely. (And no, it's not the same as kissing strange men on the lips.)Cold and flu season... More »

Modern-Day Love Poet

By Tracey on February 14, 2013 11:15 AM | 4 Comments

I have this imaginary internet friend called Amy Turn Sharp. (Isn't that just the most perfect name ever?) We've not met in person, but we've been weaving around each other out in the cyber spaces for years and years... for ages and ages... forever. She is cute and delightful.She and her husband have a tres adorable shop which is also on Esty, with some of the most charming handmade wooden toys I've ever seen. Amongst my favourites of all their offerings has to be the moustache rattle (which also comes in different shapes) and I've given them as newborn gifts... More »

Remember these Valentines??

By Sara on February 14, 2013 8:57 AM | 5 Comments

I have an amazing memory box. It's filled with all kinds of things from grade four right on up to my thirties. I'm not sure why some things were saved and others weren't but at least once a year I pull it out and howl (and cry) at the contents. Before my mom died, she pulled out a few things to add that she had saved, my high school diary being one. Oh the drama. It's a treasure.Other random contents?flags from the pins at several Etobicoke golf courses - love gifts from a boyfriend. Huh?letters from a sweet Irish boy... More »

Lovely.

By Tracey on February 13, 2013 2:18 PM | 5 Comments

While out running errands earlier today, a cashier handed me my bag of goods and said, "You have a lovely day!" And then I wished her a lovely day in return, and I left the store smiling to myself... There's a huge difference between that, and snatching up your stuff and mumbling, "Thanks..." to a person, not even being thankful at all. Not even making eye contact with another person. It made me smile because it's such a simple wish to bestow on another, and it feels nice to be on the receiving end - especially when someone is looking you in the... More »

Everything must come to an end.

By Jen on February 11, 2013 9:53 PM | 22 Comments

Everything must come to an end.Well, that's what I have been telling myself. But selling a business you started is almost like saying goodbye to a loved one. I know that there will come a time when I will reflect on this experience and all of the lessons learned and it will all make perfect sense. But, for now, I have mixed emotions. I am excited to see what the future brings but a little sad that this period in my life has come to an end.Last year I started SheBlogs Media. One year later and I have sold my... More »

love list

By Nancy on February 8, 2013 1:08 PM | 2 Comments

I read recently that listing and naming things we love reminds us to put them at the front of each day wherever and whenever possible.I am a lover of games so we played a game around this. Here is my abridged list. I invite you, my loved and lovely readers, to please list yours here too in the comment section.Share your loves. Make it random, make it little stuff, make it big stuff.And then fill your days with as much of it as you can. It is the month of love, remember.mine in no particular - -stream- of -consciousness-orderwinter orangesbabies bottomsthe inner... More »

The Power of Sshhhh....

By Sara on January 18, 2013 8:30 AM | 3 Comments

My grandmother died four years ago. I'll always remember it because it was the day after President Obama's inauguration. She went to sleep that night and silently left us at 103.I've thought about her a lot since Jodi Foster's crazy but touching Golden Globes speech. The part where she speaks to her mother broke my heart. I can only assume that her mom has alzhiemer's disease. My grandmother had dementia. Badly. One doctor I spoke to looking for answers said that we really aren't meant to live to 103 and our brains slowly go to mush. My grandmother's dementia... More »

Sloooooow Down

By Sara on January 15, 2013 8:06 AM | 2 Comments

Read this next sentence really, really, really, fast.Holy shit. I need to to get a pedicure, go the to grocery store, pick up the kid, go to swim class, make a frittata, clean the bathroom, have a shower, meet friends for dinner, go to sleep. RACE. RUN. FASTER.Is it just me or is EVERYTHING just spinning at a frenetic pace all of a sudden? This was highlighted to me this weekend after (WARNING - first world problems about to be unveiled) I had a 15 minute pedicure and a Timmy's screw up.Let's be honest, 15 minutes isn't enough time to... More »

A Before and After Story

By Kath on January 9, 2013 8:38 PM | 23 Comments

Do you know why my blog is called Losing It? It's not only because this life is such a wild and crazy busy ride that I often feel like I'm losing my marbles, although that's a convenient coincidence as it turns out. Many of you likely don't remember, but way back in May 2006 when I started this blog, it was called "An Urban Mom's Weight Loss Diary". On the day I started my blog, I tipped the scales at a scary 217.2 pounds, and over the course of my very successful journey with Weight Watchers, I lost slightly more than... More »

Full of Awesome

By Erin Little on January 8, 2013 9:24 PM | 4 Comments

I borrowed the phrase in the title from Melissa at Pigtail Pals and Ballcap Buddies, a site to empower girls and redefine girly - they have awesome T-shirts and I'm so getting the girls and i a matching set. Here are some things in my life that are full of awesome:Our class blog and my students' blogs. They rock. We are doing some awesome stuff and I'm finally in a place to recognize it (instead of comparing myself to teachers who are doing more). We are getting a lot of traffic and that is so motivating for the students.Fiona is becoming... More »

The End of Things

By Tracey on December 31, 2012 8:30 PM | 15 Comments

It's never feels good to be limping towards the finish line at the end of a year... but I've been thinking about how despite the loss of my mother-in-law just some weeks ago has us all still sad and aching, it is not exactly tragic.Everyone must go one day - we certainly don't get out of this life alive and eventually something must claim you. Not everyone lives to see an entire century pass, and though 72 isn't exactly a ripe old age, she did get to see her children grow, and welcome some grandchildren into her life... to live... More »

You Say You Want a Resolution??

By Sara on December 31, 2012 11:16 AM | 5 Comments

You do? From me? Okay I'll give you some but I can guarantee I won't stick to them.This year, I'd like toa. make and stick to a budgetb. stop my horrid habit of picking my fingersc. watch less TV and read every nightd. start to write a booke. see my girls Molly, Jodi and Christie MOREThere you go. Not hard right? Well, I'm not sure any will happen but I'm going to give it a shot - especially 'e' - it's important to me. But realistically? This year? It's 2013. I will turn 44 years old. It's a lead in... More »

Reflections from 2012

By Chantel on December 29, 2012 11:47 AM

As many of you read in my previous post my family was struck with a wicked stomach virus over the Christmas holidays (Christmas eve, and Christmas day to be exact) and I was no exception! However, while I lay in bed moaning about how terrible I felt I took the time to reflect back on what had taken place in my life during the year 2012. There were of course positives and negatives and a few highlites so here they are for all to see:POSITIVES:started coaching againstarted doing choreography againthe twins hit their developmental milestones on time The twins have... More »

Oh Holy Night?

By Jason on December 27, 2012 1:12 PM

So we had a great holiday this year and I will not write about all the Christmas minutiae, but there were two things that stood out this year more than anything. The first being our first ever excursion to church on Christmas Eve. We are not a religious family as my wife or me were not raised in a religious families growing up. But this year, Hudson started asking questions about church and God and we thought this would be at least an introduction to the subject. I was originally reluctant - not to introduce the experience to my sons... More »

Overwhelmed

By Jen on December 19, 2012 5:10 PM | 22 Comments

Can you relate?I have been sitting here for days staring at this screen looking for something profound to write about. A Holiday tip or recipe that will ease your stress and bring you back to the spirit of the season? A wise and wonderful reflection on the horrors of last week and how we can restore the humanity we have so obviously abandoned somewhere along the line? A commentary on my renewed out of control eating and my pending New Years weight loss plans? But none of it is forthcoming no matter how hard I try.My brain is in a constant... More »

You Have To Believe!

By Sara on December 17, 2012 2:14 PM | 4 Comments

On the weekend, Will and I went to see Rise of the Guardians. I'm not going to lie - I had about zero interest in seeing it and I thought it looked a bit scary for him BUT he wanted to see it and I figured I'd get an hour of silence and some popcorn intake out of it. There wasn't much that he wanted to do this weekend that I didn't indulge.It was a beautiful movie and all the more meaningful with the events of Friday's Newtown shooting so etched in our heads. Watch the trailer... then we'll talk...If... More »

It's Time for Change

By Sara on December 16, 2012 12:57 PM | 4 Comments

Obviously we are all devastated by what happened on Friday in Newtown, Connecticut. It's been 48 hours and I still find myself on the verge of tears. I keep catching myself starting at Will and trying to imagine if all of a sudden he was no longer here. If he was a victim of such senseless evil, how could you ever survive it?I'm happy that he is too young to be asking why I picked him up early on Friday. When he asked why I started to cry when I grabbed him, I told him that I was just so... More »

..and latkes to eat

By Cayla on December 10, 2012 5:17 PM | 5 Comments

This morning on the way to school, my son remarked that the latkes I'd made for our Hanukkah party last night were amazing and that he wished I would make them more often...like every day. I responded by telling him that if I made latkes all year round, they wouldn't taste as good. Not only because we'd eventually get sick of them, but because part of the reason they taste so good is because we're eating them as part our Hanukkah celebrations; when we eat latkes, we're not just enjoying a warm potato treat, we're also enjoying the taste of... More »

Doves of Hope for the Holidays.

By Jen on November 29, 2012 11:32 PM | 6 Comments

This Holiday Season I have donated to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation Doves of Hope. Over the last 10 years there have been over 55,000 Doves donated and displayed in the atrium at PMH. These Doves show patients and their families that they are not alone in their fight to conquer cancer. I know because I have been there.This Dove is dedicated to my mom:And this one is dedicated to my cousin, Madeleine:Cancer has had a huge impact on my life. While you are watching a loved one fight this horrible disease your life gets stripped right down to basics.... More »

A Lifetime of Perspective

By Jen on November 23, 2012 2:05 PM | 7 Comments

Eight years ago today my cousin Madeleine passed away from cancer. She was in her early 30s and a mom of two small children. It was a tragedy.At the time I was also a mom of two in my early 30s.Her death hit me like a ton of bricks. I had a good job but a long commute. I left my house in a rush around 7:30am every morning and got home in time to kiss my babies good night.Maddy's death made me look at my life more clearly.It could be me and I didn't want to be so... More »

FABulous.

By Sara on November 22, 2012 2:51 PM | 4 Comments

Do you ever read people's Facebook statuses and want to gag yourself with the biggest spoon you can find? Or do you think it would be less painful to to be in a Thai wrestling match than have to read how incredibly amazing everything about their lives are? How perfect their kids are? How their spouses cook dinner, walk the dog, bathe the kids AND then make it all about them a little later on...if you catch my drift?I'll admit it. I mock the crap out of these people. I do. Really? Is everything really that good?This morning I said... More »

The Spirit of giving

By Chantel on November 19, 2012 1:04 PM | 1 Comment

Hard to believe that Christmas is just around the corner! Of course my children are very excited and have been begging to put up the tree, but I am being the mean mommy and saying it has to wait until December 1.I have always tried to instill good manners, and kindness in all of my children and every year we do various things that they can all participate in that helps not only to give back to the community but also helps teach them about certain social issues. I don't want them thinking that the holidays are only about getting... More »

Strong winds

By Jason on October 30, 2012 9:45 AM | 1 Comment

So I went to a wedding this past weekend. It was a friend of Steph's, a fellow designer that has peppered her work past and looked to her as a mentor of sorts. The bride was young, 25ish, meaning the guests, minus the family, were approximately the same age as her. Me, being a robust 43 years old, and my wife, who is way younger than me at a dainty 40, are now attending weddings and slotted in the same age bracket as the uncles and aunts or older cousins or, imagine that, current or former co-workers. Now I like... More »

Just a Random Vent on Memories

By Sara on October 24, 2012 8:54 PM | 5 Comments

Next week, November 2nd, it will be twelve years since my mom died. Twelve years. Four and a half years ago, I had Will. Tonight, I watched Parenthood. Christina went in for her cancer surgery and they had a scene where her husband and family were in the waiting room while she was in surgery. They showed doctors coming in and telling other families the results of their loved ones surgery. I'm losing it. I feel like someone just punched me. Everything came back. That disgusting, dark, old waiting room that looked like a rundown library. The hallway where families got... More »

On Being a Woman on Her Own.

By Tracey on October 23, 2012 8:00 PM | 12 Comments

I don't leave my family often. That is to say, I don't travel much, and so far, since my children have been born, I've been away via airplane exactly three times.Thrice, in nine years. (Well, it's actually four times, if you include the time I stayed in a hotel for two nights by myself, but that was about six blocks from my house in the city I live in. So. I'm hardly what you'd call a freaking globetrotter.) There are many reasons surrounding this that obviously have to do with children and lack of child care... blah, blah, blah... what... More »

Enjoy the ride... it's been 19 years since I was 19

By Heather on October 19, 2012 3:33 PM | 5 Comments

For work I travel around to Ontario Highschools, Colleges and Universities, particularily a lot of travel in the Fall. I looked at my schedule and I am booked to go back to the university I graduated from many years ago. In fact I did the calculations and 19 years ago I was 19 and starting first year university. I had to look at that number a few times, firstly because math is not my strong suit and secondly because I could not wrap my brain around the fact that it's been almost 20 years since I was frosh. Then I... More »

Destiny and Adoption...

By Heather on October 11, 2012 2:49 PM | 1 Comment

I read an article a while back about a study that was done asking parents that became parents through adoption about their belief in destiny. Basically what was found is that a high proportion of this group believed that destiny had played a hand in their path to their children. Many sited many a series of coincidences and allignments of events that seemed to defy logic. As an adoptive Mom I can certainly attest to this through my experiences on my journey to Roman. Many times throughout the process I felt "guided" and "in the flow" on a... More »

The Updates!

By Sara on October 3, 2012 8:43 PM | 3 Comments

We write, you comment, we learn, we share. It's a great little cycle we have going here. What we don't do that often is update you! So here are a few!1. I just have lumpy boobs!!! Who knew this was something to cheer about...but it is! My ultrasound came back that what was showing was a cyst. Thanks to all of you for being so supportive during my panic time. Woohoo!2. I'm meeting Will's teacher next week. The timing was crazy - I wrote that post, and that night, we all got notes saying that we could reach her via... More »

Pet Peeves!

By Sara on September 28, 2012 8:26 AM | 3 Comments

Remember Dana Carvey on SNL doing Grumpy Old Man? Well. That's me today. Truly. It started with one annoying CONSISTENT driving move and made me think of all of my pet peeves. Let's unload them - and feel the rush of peace that one gets when we rant and rave for a few minutes.SARA'S PET PEEVES1. The fact that SNL is about the about the ONLY effing show that doesn't allow their show clips to be streamed in Canada. BITE ME. So here is a mash up with Bill O'Reilly where you can at least HEAR grumpy old man. Thanks... More »

What's your vision?

By Heather on October 6, 2012 11:11 AM | 2 Comments

It all began with scrapbooking many moons ago. Any of you remember "crop nights" and "scrap chats"? I would go to all night scrapbook sessions that had me cropping and producing layouts till the wee hours. This was prior to the digital age when making memories was recorded old school. When the scrapbook era ended and everyone went onto their computers my scrapbook supplies went into the closet. There they stayed until a new calling.... the vision board. I first heard of the concept about five years ago on an Arts retreat in Ottawa Valley. Everything about that weekend had lasting power but the vision board workshop was... More »

Dancing and Kale... a few words of gratitude

By Heather on September 20, 2012 12:14 PM | 2 Comments

Today I am grateful for... I was feeling quite zen in my movement class last night and filling my body with joyful movement and my mind with gratitude for the random delights of the day. These are a few of the random thoughts that popped in. I thought I'd make a wordle to express it. What words would you include in your cluster? Go ahead make one for yourself. It's easy, it's fun and almost guaranteed to might make you say "Gee Universe, thanks for the kale." ... More »

We were all young once.

By Jen on September 6, 2012 2:56 PM | 22 Comments

Sometimes I get frustrated with my dad. He's an old guy, a widower, a bit set in his ways and I find myself impatient. I adore my dad. I was always a daddy's girl growing up, eager to impress him. The truth is, these things never really change.Since my mom died we see each other a lot. He lives around the corner now and is a huge help shuttling my kids to hockey and soccer and swimming and running. He loves to cheer them on and socialize with the parents. He is often overheard bragging about their abilities or discussing... More »

Where Were You?

By Sara on August 31, 2012 7:59 AM | 3 Comments

I'm watching the news (late meeting) and up pops the stat that fifteen years ago Lady Di died. Whoa. Cue tears.I loved Lady Diana. And thinking about her dying brings such a wash of emotion and memories. When I heard the news I was at a hostel in Greece. The Pink Palace. Ever been? I was WAY too old to be there. My days of naked volleyball had long passed. I went to a phone booth to call my mom and she told me the news. I went and got a bottle of wine and sat at the beach. I... More »

Why Do I Blog?

By Sara on August 29, 2012 7:57 AM | 8 Comments

I get this question a ton. I also get the 'your son is going to be so pissed when he reads all that you've shared on the internet'. I got a charming email once accusing me of being self-centered, selfish and thinking the world revolves around me (hello pot calling....). Maybe writing a blog is a bit indulgent but there are some good reasons why I do it.First. It satisfies a creative need. I never knew how much I loved to write until I started writing a blog about eight years ago. I started writing for some of our radio... More »

Choosing Indecision

By Heather on August 12, 2012 10:06 PM | 1 Comment

For now I am investigating a few more options and delaying a decision for a few more days. What I know is that I am not ready to commit to any day care option yet. I think the right solution is right around the corner and a few more days of seeking will give me the clarity I need to move forward. I am a leaper by nature but on this decision I need my head and heart to allign to move forward and while my head is swimming with facts, and my heart pulled, my instinct is telling... More »

Dear Mom.

By Jen on August 6, 2012 6:46 PM | 11 Comments

Dear Mom,This past weekend I babysat your two youngest grandchildren. It's funny, the anniversary of your death passed just a few short weeks ago and I thought about you that day but from a distant place. This weekend my heart ached for you.If you were alive it would have been you babysitting. But, of course it, wasn't. You would have soaked in the smell of these little lovelies. As you held baby Sam and shushed him off to sleep you would have nuzzled his neck just like I did and smiled secretly at his baby smell.You would have splashed in the... More »

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FotoFriday - Fancy Footwear

By Christine on May 31, 2013 10:55 AM | 4 Comments

She had been coveting a specific pair of shoes for a long time. I refused to buy them. I like my kids in comfortable, functional shoes.On Tuesday she had another laser treatment and for the first time - she didn't cry.I was so proud of her. I made the decision to buy the damn shoes.She's been in love ever since... More »

CND Shellac...A Promise Fulfilled

By Jennifer on May 31, 2013 2:18 AM | 4 Comments

Promises...promises!Mascara that will lengthen and separate our lashes. Shampoo that will add shine and bounce. Deodorant that will make our underarms smoother. The beauty industry is very big on promises, and they don't always pan out.When CND Shellac approached me about testing out their Shellac manicure, I was warily interested. I'm tough on my nails between running after kids and keeping the house afloat. I love the look of a fresh mani, but it rarely lasts longer than a few days. CND Shellac was promising (in writing) ZERO dry time, 14 day wear and a mirror finish. I had to... More »

From My Closet - May 29th, 2013

By Tracey on May 29, 2013 3:15 PM | 10 Comments

Oh, these rainy days... I don't love them much at all, but I'm so very glad it isn't snow. (What a thing to say in May. Oy.) I recently picked up a stretchy pair of dark wash jeggings (I hate that term) and though the sewn-closed front pockets drive me bananas, I like the fit and the feel. Especially since we've just had house guests for two extended weekends, back to back, and with all the food and wine and more food and more wine and cheeses and bacon and things, the extra stuff I'm carrying around in my truck... More »

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Urban Kid Closet - May 23rd, 2013

By Tracey on May 23, 2013 6:00 PM | 1 Comment

As the winter was ending, a neighbour-lady of mine gave me a bag with a few things for Madame, as her own daughter had outgrown the stuff. She often saves me some excellent duds, like these pants. LOVE, I tell you. So when I opened the bag, I confess, at first I thought this lined raincoat was a bit busy, and I really wasn't sure what to think about it... until the child slipped it on, and I saw how it was made of Adorable. Plus, she loved it. Win! Boots were the challenge, since I everywhere I looked had... More »

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Am Old. Need New Shoes.

By Amanda on May 22, 2013 9:41 PM | 5 Comments

Do you go all the way?

By Christine on May 20, 2013 3:00 PM | 2 Comments

From My Closet - May 17th, 2013

By Tracey on May 17, 2013 9:30 AM | 2 Comments

I've been rearranging the closet items, busting out the good weather stuff, and packing away my big stupid brown parka and whatnot. It feels good to wear shoes without socks again, even if there's a slight chill in the air some days. I had to run a few errands not far from home, so I slipped on one of my favourite pairs of shoes - a grey-blue pair of slingbacks with a low wooden heel - which look super casual when paired with jeans. Ideal for doing non-fancy things in non-fancy places. I can skip around town in them quite... More »

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(On The Way Out) From My Closet - May 18th, 2013

By Tracey on May 19, 2013 9:00 AM | 4 Comments

I'm a bit sad about these cool kicks, but they were looking decidedly worse for wear when had to put them away last fall. Their soles were wearing thin due to the fact that I used them as brakes while riding Oliver's scooter for the last few years, and the sequins have been dropping off all over the place, and smallish holes were growing. I really wore the crap out of them. I'm all for being an Urban Muther and everything, but since I'm not exactly a teenager *ahem* I draw the line at scruffy. I don't want or need... More »

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The Closet Shrink: Spring Fling(ing)

By Tracey on May 16, 2013 12:15 PM | 4 Comments

I've been sorting and purging and re-storing our things over the last few weeks, but I really like this process. It lends opportunity to taking a close look at your things for the coming season or two - it's more obvious for children, who outgrow things like jackets, pants, and shoes, but my own items often need more careful consideration. As I've mentioned before, closet space is at a premium in our house, and I'm no hoarder, so I need to be judicious and ruthless about what I keep! I always try to trick out the insides of my closets... More »

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The Dove Beauty Sketches - Through her Daughter's Eyes

By Jen on May 15, 2013 5:58 PM | 5 Comments

Most of us have seen the video (and likely the spoof) of the new Real Beauty Sketches by Dove but this is one I hadn't seen before. It is a special version featuring mothers and their daughters. I found this video in the series especially touching because I lost my mom almost 4 years ago. As I watched the video I started to think about how I would describe my mom to the artist. Every word I thought of was a positive one - soft, bright, warm, sparkling. It made me remember her in a way I haven't been able... More »

Rock Meets Luxe: Zadig & Voltaire

By Sonya on May 16, 2013 7:28 AM | 2 Comments

It's not a movie or a music group but a FABULOUS designer line from Paris and it's arriving on our streets exclusively at Holt Renfrew. Zadig & Voltaire is known for its edgy meets luxe image. Think cashmere with angel wings and skulls (hey, Tracey you'd love this!) "The original idea behind Zadig & Voltaire is to create "new luxury", says Thierry Gillier, designer of founder. "From the beginning, Zadig & Votaire has naturally established itself as a "concept-store-designer" ahead of its time. Zadig & Voltaire is a breath of fresh air, a dream-factory, a producer of designs."And fashion runs through Gillier's veins.... More »

The Business of Retail

By Tracey on May 9, 2013 2:30 PM | 11 Comments

Urban Kid Closet - May 8th, 2013

By Tracey on May 8, 2013 11:00 AM | 8 Comments

I find Old Navy to be rather hit-or-miss from season to season... I haven't bought much for my son from there in a few years, but it's been my huckleberry for this girl so far. And thanks to all those terrific online-shopping rebates and such, I've been able to pick up a clutch of sundresses for Madame, who practically cries whenever I wave a pair of pants in front of her eyes. Alrighty then... bring on the dresses, spring er, summer!! I know some might think I'm crazy to put her in a white dress (or white anything) but it's... More »

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hr2: Where to shop NOW!

By Sonya on May 10, 2013 12:04 PM | 3 Comments

Love shopping? I do! Surprised? I love quality, style as well as a good sale now and then. I could hardly contain myself when I found out that luxury goods store, Holt Renfrew, announced the introduction of their new concept store hr2. Once in a while I'll venture to "Holt's" when I need that perfect stellar piece for an event or when I've earned that coveted bag. But hr2 is different. The anticipation was killing me as they had mentioned that this is not going to be like any other shopping experience. So, last night I ventured with some of the city's... More »

The Crocodile turns 80!

By Sonya on May 9, 2013 12:03 PM | 1 Comment

There are a few brands in this world that are true icons and classics - that stay true to their roots. LACOSTE was born on a tennis court in 1933, as a French tennis champion Rene Lacoste replaced the what men wore for the sport. He was the first to introduce the comfort and stylish pique fabric shirt known today as the "polo shirt." The iconic Crocodile is recognized around the world and has become a go-to brand for those in pursuit of timeless elegance and comfort. But what's the story behind the Crocodile? According to the company, the true story... More »

Pantone's Colour of The Year: Yay or Nay?

By Angie on May 7, 2013 3:00 PM | 2 Comments

Stylish Mother's Day Gift Ideas

By Jennifer on May 7, 2013 2:13 AM | 2 Comments

Still looking for the perfect gift for your stylish mom? Is your mother looking to squeeze a little more fitness into her life? She'll feel healthier and look stylin' with a pair of Orthaheel shoes. Designed by Australian podiatrist Phillip Vasyli, Orthaheel offers an innovative approach to foot health that is recommended by doctors and other health care professionals. I started wearing mine about two months ago, and they're my go-to shoes now. Find them at Foot Solutions stores across the country, or at a retailer near you by visiting Orthaheel. The Fleur sandal is available in a variety of colours and... More »

Bad Hair Day

By Sonya on May 29, 2013 9:45 AM | No Comments

When you live in Toronto you already know how our weather can change from cold to hot and back again all within 24 hours. Yesterday I could see my breathe and I was freezing when I went to pick up my son from school. This morning it is humid and sticky hot before 9 am. And then there's my hair. Ugh.Last night, as I was rushing to get ready for the media launch of the new Milly collection at Banana Republic, I could hear the weather gods laughing loudly. I had succumbed to the realization that it was a bad... More »

Urban Kid Closet - May 3rd, 2013

By Tracey on May 3, 2013 11:30 AM | 2 Comments

Let's go, SPRING!! I did some online shopping last month, in anticipation of the warmer weather, and finally being able to put away all the wintry wollens and such... and as of last weekend, we're all exercising our right to bare arms. Witness: the sleeveless shirtdress. When I open the shipment, I wasn't immediately sure about the neon coral accents on this camo-green shirt dress, but I think I'm digging it pretty hard now. It breaks up all the murkiness of all the green shades going on in the flora and fauna. Madame loves it because it's a DRESS even... More »

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The Receiving & Giving Blanket

By Sonya on May 5, 2013 9:52 AM | No Comments

It seems to be baby shower season and if you're looking for a gift that is stylish and thoughtful, consider this beautiful line of blankets. This past Friday, Holt Renfrew officially launched the exclusively designed Armani Junior Baby Blanket to benefit Free The Children. This limited edition blanket is available in store and online with part proceeds going to the charity to help communities in Kenya."Every mother and baby deserves a happy and healthy start, and the basic necessities of health care and clean water," said Alexandra Weston, Holt Renfrew's Director of Brand Strategy. "Holt Renfrew joined with Armani to... More »

iLove You, iPhone.

By Amanda on April 29, 2013 1:22 PM | 2 Comments

I got an iPhone.I have had a cell phone for the past four years, but it was without a data plan and I was only able to use it for texting and calling (oh, the horror!). I longed for a phone with a better camera, one that had access to the internet so I could use it as a GPS, and also be able to pull up important info for work, etc. And now, here we are. I am loving it. Especially the fantastic camera and all the Instagramming it helps me do. I am photo-boming everyone's Facebook feeds with important... More »

Travel Light with Style

By Sonya on April 28, 2013 9:57 AM | 2 Comments

I've just returned from a quick getaway in Arizona. It was 95 degrees everyday and the sun was HOT!!!! I savoured EVERY WAKING. MOMENT, trust me! With the long, drawn out winter we've had in Toronto, I didn't take this trip for granted. I travel frequently and packing what to wear is always fun. No not really. Packing gives me a headache. I'd like to think I'm a pro at packing...but in actual fact I always over pack. I have some idea of what I'll need but I tend to over pack regardless as sometimes hubby drop the "guess what? we're going... More »

Hello Birkin Bag & Discovering Real Treasures

By Sonya on April 26, 2013 8:24 AM | No Comments

The first time I visited an auction house was years ago in Los Angeles. My husband and I visited Sotheby's. Although no live auctions were taking place, we were still welcomed and had a fascinating chat with one of the reps there. I also purchased a few "collectible" auction catalogues as souvenirs. Jackie O's was amongst my finds and I often put it out as a coffee table book as its a great conversation piece when guests come over.Visiting a live auction of significance is on my "bucket list". Being able to "bid" would be just dreamy. Someday. Someday.You've heard... More »

Urban Kid Closet - April 25th, 2013

By Tracey on April 25, 2013 9:45 AM | 4 Comments

What is this weather doing, April? I honestly don't know, with these super-chilly mornings, and windy afternoons... it's hard to know how to dress. As I say the word dress, this child's ears prick up, and she is DESPERATE to wear some of the more summery items I bought a few weeks ago (I really should have kept them hidden) but for this fickle weather, this one works. This was a Zara online purchase, and sadly, not on sale (Boo!!) but the colour is really flattering on this kid, and I love the crochet applique on the front of this... More »

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The "No Need To Panic" Mom's Day Gift List.

By Sonya on April 29, 2013 12:20 PM | No Comments

When it comes to Mother's Day some of us get stressed out about how to give mom some recognition. Yes, it's only one day...but so is your birthday (unless you're like my mom and claims she has two birthdays)....so enjoy! While I'm totally happy with the artwork that the little one brings home from school or the drawing my older son does on his spare time -- and of course, the attempt at making breakfast (which I inevitably have to clean up), I know that sometimes there's a little something extra too... So for all those out there who WANT to... More »

How would you describe yourself?

By Sonya on April 17, 2013 8:43 PM | 1 Comment

Got Kids' Art? Hang It!

By Angie on April 17, 2013 4:11 PM | No Comments

Nothing to wear

By Alanna on April 12, 2013 2:50 PM | 8 Comments

(Image source)I know I'm supposed to feel beautiful and appreciate my pregnant body, but at 27 weeks I look at myself and see a beached whale (sigh). As I try to squeeze my over sized belly into my pre-maternity shirts I realize that it's time I do some serious shopping. When I was pregnant with L'il E (my first) my body did not bloom like it has this time, so I was able to get away with wearing some of my real clothes for almost my entire pregnancy. I bought a few pairs of jeggings at (cough) Thyme Maternity, but that's about it.Sadly... More »

Urban Kid Closet - April 15th, 2013

By Tracey on April 15, 2013 10:30 AM | 5 Comments

I scooped up this top on sale from the Gap a few years ago, but it only started fitting her this past fall... and I found it a bit tough to pair. Sure it looked great with these adorable pink cords as well as with these cute skinny cargos, but pants are decidedly NOT her favourite. She looks at me as if she's punished whenever I make her wear some. (Prepare yourselves for The Summer of The Dress, y'all.) But late this winter, while I was in-store shopping at Zara, I spied this simple skirt in camo-green with an elastic... More »

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From My Closet - April 11th, 2013

By Tracey on April 11, 2013 11:30 AM | 12 Comments

So, I happened by the place the rhymes with Sinners the other day, mostly perusing the shoes, the way I often do... and didn't I find this cute pair of Converse sneakers? And weren't they just the right price for budget-savvy moi?! They read like a burgundy + pink tweed which gives them an all-over puce kind of colour (not puke - that's different) and they're lined with hot pink satin. RAWR! (And they're not as dark as they appear in this picture.) I deem them exactly right for getting around town these days, since boots sometimes feel too hot... More »

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Extra Pepperoni. ON MY FACE.

By Amanda on April 9, 2013 5:06 PM | 3 Comments

Urban Kid Closet - April 9th, 2013

By Tracey on April 9, 2013 9:30 AM | No Comments

While looking for tights for this girl several weeks back, I popped into a store I don't normally frequent, desperate in my search. It's a based-in-Quebec chain called Souris Mini (Mini Mouse). I confess that I find their stuff a little too... Idunnowhat... for my kids. I find many of the patterns and colour schemes a bit bold for my taste all told, but that's just me. (And it's not what I'd call an inexpensive shopping experience so, behold the sales times!!) That day turned up no tights I could abide by, but I did find this purple turtleneck sweater... More »

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And you thought it was big already?

By Sonya on April 8, 2013 12:10 PM | No Comments

Wow! As if the weather warming up to double digits wasn't enough exciting news this morning, Yorkdale Shopping Centre announces yet another expansion to the tune of $331 million dollars that will be completed in the Fall of 2013. Shopping peeps, get ready! This expansion will include a three-level, 188,000 square foot Nordstrom full-line store and will be located at the south end of the centre near the theatres according to the buzz."This isn't a matter of 'if you build it, they will come'. International brands and enthusiastic shoppers are flocking to Yorkdale and we're growing to meet market demands,' said Anthony... More »

Spring Hair Trends from Goody

By Jennifer on April 6, 2013 5:39 PM | No Comments

Spring is coming...it really is. We're finally going to be able to ditch the toques; but that doesn't mean we need to cover up with a ball cap or fedora. Spring is a time to let loose and show off that crowning glory.I recently attended an event to get a sneak preview of the upcoming season's newest styling tools and accessories from Goody. A few of these will help you to keep up with all of the season's hair trends.New Products to Make Life EasierGoody's got a number of new products designed to save you time and effort. First up the... More »

Urban Kid Closet - March 31st, 2013

By Tracey on March 31, 2013 9:00 AM | 4 Comments

I love a funky t-shirt. It's got a burn-out camo-motif in purpley blacks. And she loves rhinestones. (Who doesn't?) It was love at first click. Thank you, internet. Me: Do you like this one, Miss? Her: *lively eyes* Yeeessssss... Me: Well, okay then. (She's much more jazzed about this t-shirt in person, I swear.) I love it when shopping is simple, don't you? t-shirt with skulls - Zara, $17.90 tan beanie with rosette - Zara, ancient denim skirt - Old Navy, ancient grey and black striped leggings - Gap, ancient... More »

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Urban Kid Closet - March 29th, 2013

By Tracey on March 29, 2013 9:00 AM

When spring finally springs, it's a glorious thing indeed, but we're not ready for bare legs for several weeks yet. So bring on the tights. But indeed... where are all the tights? I've been having a hell of a time finding the kind of girls tights with feet, but without any cable-stitching or ass-y motifs on them. It's not been an easy task, and some of my favourite places to shop at are decidedly sans tights right now. So I scoured the internet and found a company called Tiny Soles out of Washington, who had a bunch of things to... More »

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Step 1. Naturally.

By Sonya on April 17, 2013 8:00 AM

I've been learning more and more about the number of chemicals we are exposed to on a daily basis. We are already in tuned with what we put IN our bodies and making choices that best suit our needs. But it makes total sense that we need to pay attention to what we put ON as well. It's a little scary when you think about it. Our bodies are absorbing all sorts of chemicals from lotions to sunscreens to bug repellents. Luckily there seems to be more options available - way more than when I was a teen. I've got... More »

Urban Kid Closet - March 27th, 2013

By Tracey on March 27, 2013 4:30 PM | 4 Comments

First, let me say I can't believe he let me take his picture... it seems like such a rare event these days. I find dressing this boy fairly uncomplicated - give him some t-shirts he's fond of and jeans that fit the way he likes, and he's golden. I've tried pushing him in fashion directions he just won't go in, not for love or money. I wish he'd be down with an argyle v-neck sweater, or a rock a black turtleneck, or wear a chunky cable-knit with a funky collar... but he won't have it. And hats (outside of the... More »

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What's in a Size?

By Tracey on March 27, 2013 3:30 PM | 12 Comments

I went bra shopping today, which is my least favourite of all the shoppings.I went because my boobs are decidedly bigger than they were the last time I bought some, and the "spillage" out of the cups of my current bras was making me feel... very... soft and squishy in ways I do not like.Now, let me say right here that I know I don't have any kinds of weight issues - I've totally put on some winter pounds, which doesn't really faze me much, except when my clothes stop fitting the way they're supposed to. And I don't have... More »

How beauty is not wasted & some DIY fun!

By Sonya on March 28, 2013 10:29 AM

Longer, Fuller, Stronger...we're talking lashes!

By Sonya on April 5, 2013 10:15 AM | 2 Comments

Waaaayyyy back during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September I had visited a few "gifting lounges" to the stars. You know, where the celebrities get invited (or have hand-delivered to their hotel rooms), products and services from various companies. It's nice to see Canadian products get some love at this major international events.I've been working my way through the products. If there's one thing you should know about me is that I don't accept every goody offered to me. But I do accept the ones that I am personally curious about OR that I think our readers may... More »

Say YES to the Dress! Kleinfeld is coming!

By Sonya on March 26, 2013 10:00 AM

When I got married 20 years ago, yeah, 20, girlfriend! -- there weren't too many options for bridal wear even in this big city. Spadina or Danforth was the place to go with several shops that carried an array of white flouncy, satin, and tulle dresses that hung lifelessly in rows. Just starting out in my career, visiting bridal salons like Ritchie's or Joy Cherry was out of the question. I looked through magazines and ripped out pages of what I thought I'd like. Luckily, the first dress I ripped out was the first dress I had tried on and that... More »

Designed with Love & Win a Kobo Arc!

By Sonya on April 1, 2013 11:03 AM | 224 Comments

It's so inspiring to see the up-and-coming designers take centre stage at major events. This year, THE COLLECTIONS supported seven emerging designers during World MasterCard Fashion Week in Toronto. Designers included Chloe comme Parris, Sid Neigum, Thomas Balint, Laura Seigel, Klaxon Howl and new comers LACERDA and Matthew Gallagher. What was really cool this year was how the KOBO ARC was incorporated into the design process proving that technology and creativity does go hand-in-hand.With design in mind, each designer used the KOBO ARC 7" Google certified tablet to draw inspiration in creating and managing their looks leading into their fashion shows. It comes to... More »

Runway Report: Korhani's nocturnal and alluring delights

By Sonya on March 22, 2013 1:01 PM

Fashion Week at the David Pecault Square is where a lot of the excitement is this week. Show after show brought beautifully crafted pieces to the forefront of the Canadian style scene. World MasterCard Fashion Week not only features fashion but style for the home. Hey, after all, your home is another way of expressing your personality just like your clothing, right?! KORHANI Home unveiled their Fall/Winter 2013 collection with an extension of their stylish yet classic trends to home furnishings. Don't be confused, the runway show featured the home collection spun into fashions for inspiration, get it? Although, with all the... More »

Runway Report: MIZ by Izzy Camilleri

By Sonya on March 21, 2013 1:07 PM

Well, last year this time I was already wearing heels and bare legs to the World MasterCard Fashion Week runway shows. Sadly, this year old man winter decided to stick around! BUT Never mind. It's the time of year when some of the best established and emerging Canadian fashion designers strut their latest creations down the runways to industry peeps, fashion mavens and influencers alike. Izzy Camilleri opened up Fashion Week featuring her newest ready-to-wear line MIZ by Izzy Camilleri that will be out for Fall/Winter 2013 (available online in August).The collection featured beautiful pieces in jersey, stretch wool twill, and... More »

(On The Way Out) From My Closet - March 18th, 2013

By Tracey on March 18, 2013 12:00 PM | 6 Comments

I think I've mentioned before how I sometimes have trouble with colour. Well... oops, I did it again. In December, I think - just when I was looking for a pick-me-up. I like the colour of this sweater, I mean I guess... and there's nothing bad about a crew neck sweater (though v-necks are often better on me) and I like this shade of fuschia just fine, and I loves me some leopard prints, too. But I've tried pairing this top with jeans in different colours and washes, and I've tried it with a denim skirt, and with a satin... More »

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On "Real" Women and Selective Language

By Tracey on March 14, 2013 1:15 PM | 8 Comments

This image of some store mannequins in Sweden (I wish I knew what shop) have been circulating around the net for a few days - I even shared it on my Facebook page, and wrote, "These look like real women - Brava Sweden!"You've gotta dig this flicka's hairdo... and her socks are pretty rad, too.People everywhere are loving this image - and why wouldn't they? I applaud the use of more realistic-looking models in ALL kinds of media. Ones that truly reflect the diverse world around us, more than just the "ideal". For me, this extends to using people of... More »

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