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GMC Terrain Denali: Love behind the Wheel

By Heather on February 19, 2013 12:27 PM

I shouldn't have liked this truck as much as I did. In the weeks that have passed since I drove around this black beauty I've caught myself eyeing its brothers and sisters on the roads and sending a knowing wink in the direction of their drivers. We now share a secret. We all know what you wouldn't imagine: Behind the intimidating exterior of this rugged GMC Terrain Denali is a truck that's fun to drive. And it's not just the fact that you're up good and high when you're doing it. It's the way it feels from the moment you... More »

January Checklist

By Heather on January 10, 2013 5:57 AM

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)As much as I hate to admit it, there's no denying it. The latest dumping of snow in Eastern Ontario is a reminder: The snow is out there. Those of us who've been getting off lightly so far, can't take that for granted either. You never know which morning you're going to wake up to a winter wonderland or car-skating rink outside. And when it hits, those of us who like to procrastinate and pretend that we're still on yearlong around the world trips in tropical destinations are going to pay the price. Don't be a Heather. Make... More »

The 2013 Chevy Trax - The Newest Small SUV

By Leslie on December 18, 2012 10:40 PM

I love driving a car. When I turned 16 I could not wait to get my drivers licence. I always knew independence was important and being able to drive and own my own car was at the top of my to do list. Thirty years later I still feel the same way.However, owning a car is expensive! Finding the right car at the right price can be an exhausting process. So when our friends at Chevrolet asked me to test drive the not yet released new 2013 Chevy Trax, I was thrilled.Is it a car or is it a SUV?... More »

HONDA PILOT : Think Like A Man

By Heather on November 5, 2012 6:54 AM

I've been curious about the Honda Pilot for years. It's one of those vehicles that isn't particularly beautiful in a typical sexy, suv sense but yet seems to have a rugged, powerful look that turns heads. And then I started to notice that whenever I saw one in an accident, no matter how bad the other car looked (fender bender to completely totalled) the Pilot always looked like it had just been out for a walk in the park. (Likely due to its rigid uni-body frame.) As a mom often left to drive the kids to and from various events,... More »

Zoom Zoom Indeed - A week with the Mazda CX-9

By Heather on October 15, 2012 9:00 AM | 2 Comments

I'm not a superficial woman. You're likely to bump into me with my hair in a ponytail, no makeup on and sneakers casually on my feet in places like the mall, at the grocery store and in the school yard. But just because I'm not a fussy girl, doesn't mean I don't like a fancy ride. There's something about a pretty car that I really, really like. And from the moment I laid eyes on the white Mazda CX-9 I was smitten. The shape and size of the vehicle are instantly appealing. Not too big, Not too small. The right... More »

2013 Chevy Malibu - The Grown Up Car!

By Sara on October 9, 2012 9:56 AM

Last month, I had the amazing opportunity to drive the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia in the new 2013 Chevy Malibu. F-A-B. Keep in mind, I am the small, hatchback queen. My wheels have always been low to the ground and small. Returning from a few days behind the wheel of the Malibu have left me singing the clown song from the circus every time I get in my go-kart car. What I Liked!I loved how the car handled. So smooth. You can't tell whether you're driving 50 or 150 km/h. Just so smooth. My car starts to shake past... More »

Role Reversal

By Heather on September 24, 2012 10:03 AM | 24 Comments

I love my husband.He is a good man and an amazing father and if I had to do it all over again I'd choose him in an instant. One of the things I love most? Traveling with him fits me like a glove. We've been together for over 20 years and over that time we've found a rhythm that works well for us on the road. For example: Years of travel - including our most recent one away - have taught us that when it comes to road trips, our marriage is best suited when we have a driver and... More »

Road Trippin'

By Amanda on September 24, 2012 10:00 AM | 47 Comments

What's cooler than a mom in a minivan?Five moms in a minivan!This past weekend we loaded up the Dodge Grand Caravan for an epic road trip to a weekend retreat with some of my closest girlfriends. We found more than enough room to squeeze in our 13 suitcases and dozens of bags of snacks and cameras and sleeping bags and 56 different outfit options. The ride was smooth and fast as we left our kids behind, looking forward to a little getaway together, filled with time to let loose, recharge and rest.The van was a hit with all the ladies... More »

Open Sesame!

By Amanda on September 17, 2012 9:00 AM | 34 Comments

Three backpacks, a diaper bag, a gigantic purse, a briefcase, a travel mug and a toddler on my hip. That's what I carry to my van, in one fell swoop, each morning. (This photo is staged. Normally I am hauling double the gear.)The Dodge Grand Caravan has this amazing feature that makes my experience as a mule so much easier: with the touch of a button, the hatch opens up, meaning I don't have to set down the 36 bags of gear I'm toting before loading them into the van.Open Sesame!It might not seem like much, but every little luxury really... More »

Who needs a lift? I've got room.

By Heather on September 17, 2012 9:00 AM | 56 Comments

I have an overwhelming urge to buy a table. Not just any table but a long one. Or one that comes in multiple boxes. If not a table then I want to carpool. I want to drive all the kids in the neighbourhood somewhere or maybe just have a car party where we never actually go anywhere but have a good time doing it. These are the things that are run through my mind, every time I climb into the Dodge Caravan Crew. I'll be driving along normally and then I'll check the rear-view mirror and have these random thoughts... More »

An Unlikely Hero Saves our Back to School Day

By Heather on September 10, 2012 12:00 PM | 49 Comments

My boys didn't start school last week with everyone else. Nope, after a year away from school exploring the world on an around the world trip, we snuck them away again last week for their uncle's wedding in Italy. It was a moment we absolutely wouldn't miss and so it meant that school would have to wait a few days more. The excitement between them was unbearable but finally the day arrived. While some kids might have been dragging their heels, this morning my two were up early, dressed and ready to go. They love their school, they love their... More »

First Day of School!

By Amanda on September 10, 2012 10:00 AM | 68 Comments

First day of school? Check.My eldest daughter made her way to Grade One, and my middle girl tried her hand at Junior Kindergarten. The past week was filled with rushed mornings, flying out the door with three backpacks slung around my arms, scrambling to toss everything (and everyone) into the Dodge Grand Caravan all before the school bell rang. Mornings are so harried in our house, but the kids were excited to hop in the van and get their days started!The van has been fantastic for all the running around we're doing this season, with lots of room in the... More »

Diary of a Dodge Grand Caravan back-to-school driver

By Amanda on September 5, 2012 5:32 PM | 2 Comments

I am a sucker for a good van.Shortly after the birth of our third child we outgrew our former vehicle and tired of ramming all three kids in the same back seat where they were within arms' reach to claw each other's eyeballs out and scream bloody murder. We bit the bullet and got a used minivan and I have loved it ever since. So when our family was given the opportunity to test drive a brand new Dodge Grand Caravan for the month of September, we jumped at the chance. This candy-apple red gem of a van is going to help... More »

2013 Dodge Caravan Crew is a winner with the kids!

By Heather on September 5, 2012 4:53 PM | 2 Comments

You know things might go well in a car test drive when before the dealer has finished describing what the car has and can do, you hear a low whistle come from behind the sliding doors. "Saweeeeeetttt!"Cameron, 7, and Ethan, 9, were already in the backseat and pushing buttons before Art, the representative at Woodbine Chrysler, had got halfway through the new 2013 Dodge Caravan Crew's features. I'm scheduled to test drive the Caravan this month and see how the features add up for a family on the go. I'll spend the month exploring the vehicle, testing it out on... More »

Completely Catered to: 2013 Lincoln MKS

By Heather on August 20, 2012 12:37 PM

As I've mentioned I drove a used 1995 VW Passat wagon for many years before leaving on our around the world trip.I loved that car.But I had no idea how different a 1995 car is from a 2013.The Lincoln MKS showed me that.While the MKS ultimately doesn't meet the needs for my family, I was the hit of the neighbourhood driving around in what can only be described as a seriously smart luxury ride.From the moment you sit down in the driver's seat the Lincoln treats you like you're an old friend. What I liked:· It knew me: As soon as... More »

Solo Road Trip

By Heather on July 30, 2012 9:37 AM

For the last year I've been traveling with my husband and two sons. Non-stop. Every morning they were there when I woke up, every meal we ate together and every evening theirs were the last voices I heard before I fell asleep. Depending on the day people either hear this and think : That woman is so lucky to have that amount of time together with her family," or "That woman is insane." Either way, I get it. I've had both of those thoughts at various moments too. I'm a soloist by nature. While I am completely functional in a... More »

Continue reading Solo Road Trip .

Let's Ride

By Heather on July 1, 2012 11:33 AM

I LOVE to drive. Those capitals aren't a typo. When I'm behind the wheel of a car I'm in one of my happy places. Sure, there are times (stuck in a traffic jam when there's somewhere I need to be) when I wish for the ability to just wiggle my nose and be somewhere, but give me a good car, no schedule and an open road and you won't hear a complaint from me. Sun shining, windows down, warm breeze coming through and the radio cranked with tunes and you'll not only see me smiling behind the wheel, you... More »

2011 GMC Acadia: Family Luxury

By samantha f. on November 21, 2011 5:05 PM

Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} Model Tested: GMC Acadia DenaliCompetition in its class: Buick Enclave, Lincoln MKT, Honda Pilot, Ford FlexMSRP for the model tested: $63,625 The GMC Acadia is one gorgeous ride, inside and out. My initial impression was that it is quite similar in appearance to the Buick Enclave, both in its interior features and handling. Similarly to the Enclave, the Acadia, depending on which configuration is chosen, is... More »

Where have all the good tires gone?

By samantha f. on October 3, 2011 6:55 PM | 3 Comments

Looking for cool ways to go green? So are we! That's why Ontario Tire Stewardship is hosting the Green My Tires blog series on UrbanMoms. Throughout the series you will find information on innovative green products, the how-to's on getting even greener and the ins and outs of recycling your tires. Learn while following this new green trend! If you're like me, you dread tire shopping. Dread. So many kinds, so many types: All-season, winter, summer, hydro-whatever, skid-something... I glaze over at the mere sight of the racks upon racks of tires. I know they are designed to help keep... More »

2011 Chevrolet Cruze: Let's Cruze, baby!

By samantha f. on September 21, 2011 8:11 PM

Model Tested: Chevrolet Cruze LT Turbo Competition in its class: Honda Civic • Toyota Corolla • Mazda 3 • Nissan Sentra • Ford Focus • Volkswagen Jetta MSRP for the model tested: $19, 495 for the LT Turbo (Cruze LS starts at $14,995) with an additional $1,570 in optional upgrades. Even before it was named the 2011 Canadian Car of the Year, the Chevy Cruze burst on to the scene with one thing in mind: wow Canadians. But before Canadians, drivers around the world tested and re-tested this car. Chevy's global organization meticulously planned and re-planned, intent on bringing the... More »

2011 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab: With Room to Spare

By samantha f. on August 31, 2011 8:15 PM | 1 Comment

Model tested: Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie Crew Cab 4X4 MSRP for model reviewed: $53,885 (based model of Laramie Crew Cab: $46,415) Competition in its class: Toyota Tundra • Chevy Silverado • GMC Sierra • Ford 150 Okay, so it's not a traditional "Urban Mom" vehicle, but trucks are a little more prevalent as family vehicles now with the availability of crew cabs. Trucks aren't just for men or meant to be strictly work vehicles anymore. They are increasingly more appealing to females and are very also very versatile when it comes to toting around ruggedly transporting children, gear, and groceries.... More »

2011 Dodge Caravan: Bold Functionality

By samantha f. on August 18, 2011 8:10 PM

Model tested: Dodge Grand Caravan Crew MSRP for model reviewed: $43, 445 (Base price $39,995) Competition in its class: Honda Odyssey • Kia Sedona • Nissan Quest • Toyota Sienna If one were to compare the nuts and bolts of the 2011 Dodge Caravan and the 2011 Town & Country - which I reviewed just prior to the Caravan - they would likely conclude that they are basically one in the same. The interior cabin space and engine size are virtually identical, save a few different emblems, but once you sit inside, it's evident that these two vehicles are aimed... More »

2011 Chrysler Town & Country: Luxury Minivan, Yes I Said It. Luxury.

By samantha f. on July 30, 2011 5:14 PM

Model Tested: Chrysler Town & Country Limited Competition in its class: Toyota Sienna • Honda Odyssey • Nissan Quest MSRP for the model tested: $52, 870.00 (Base model valued at $33,995.00)Well, it happened. I drove a mini van. This time it was a Chrysler Town & Country, and despite how well equipped it is, trucking the kids back and forth from daycare and soccer, drive-in movies and grocery shopping all just feels so much more domesticated in a van. I can't help it. Vans are just uncool. We know it, automakers admit it, and yet the functionality of a minivan really cannot be disputed. Once... More »

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4X4: Comfort, Space and Functionality Rolled Into One

By samantha f. on July 12, 2011 8:33 PM

MSRP for the model tested: $50, 620.00; the base 4X4 model sits at $37, 995.00. Competition in its class: Ford Explorer • Honda Pilot • Hyundai Santa Fe • Nissan Murano • Toyota Highlander When I was ten I was certain one day I would own a Jeep Cherokee. To this day they remind me of summer vacations with my aunt, driving north for camping trips. That was 1989 and today's Jeeps are very similar to what I remember: roomy, comfortable, and rugged. The appearance has varied slightly over the years, but the Grand Cherokee holds true to its strong and... More »

Continue reading 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4X4: Comfort, Space and Functionality Rolled Into One.

2011 Kia Forte5: Family Shmamily, Kias For All!

By samantha f. on June 22, 2011 7:36 PM

Model tested: Kia Forte5 EXMSRP for model tested: $23,000.00 Competition in its class: Mazda3 Sport • Suzuki SX4 • Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback • Volkswagen Golf This 5-door hatch back can move and accommodates a family of four quite comfortably, including rather large, oversized car seats. For some, it may not be an ideal only car, like say if you are a family of four, have a dog and travel a lot requiring a fair amount of luggage, but definitely works as a second vehicle for local trips as a family or if you commute. Speaking of commuting, the gas mileage in the Kia Forte5 is... More »

2011 Buick Enclave: Luxury Crossover With Room to Spare

By samantha f. on June 7, 2011 10:16 AM

Model tested: Buick Enclave CXL AWDMSRP for the model tested: 64, 745.00 Competition in its class: Acura MDX AWD • Lincoln MKT • Lexus RX 350 FWD Immediately the exterior of this vehicle took me in: eye-catching, sleek and compact looking; the Enclave is beautiful. The exterior chrome finishes really complete the look, accentuating the curves of this gorgeous-looking ride. My initial impression of the interior was that it was extremely busy. The mix of leather, brushed nickel, genuine mahogany accents and traditional plastic-like interior trim didn't do it for me. Colours aside, the interior feels comfortable and inviting. The cup holders and... More »

2011 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V: Family-friendly Performance

By samantha f. on May 25, 2011 6:57 PM

Competition in its class: Honda Civic Si, Toyota Corolla S, Mitsubishi Lancer MSRP for model tested: $27,036Sporty, sleek and fun to drive, the 6-speed manual Nissan Sentra Spec-V originally caught my eye while on a retreat for the preview of the all-new Nissan Quest back in March. Immediately I got in touch with Heather, from Cohn & Wolfe, and told her I had to try this car out.Sure, it's not a traditional family car - it's listed as a Performance Car on Nissan's website - but the sporty Sentra does provide the space needed for kids/baggage/pets/friends without being overly large... More »

2011 Ford Explorer: Ford Gets It.

By samantha f. on May 10, 2011 10:04 PM

MSRP: $47, 379.00 for the CXL model tested Competition in its class: Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Toyota Highlander The exterior upgrades to the all-new Ford Explorer are evident at first glance. The smooth clean lines and chrome detailing update the look of the explorer exponentially. I was initially intimidated by the size; the spacious interior provides the front passengers a great deal of room while the second-row seating could use a little more. Personally, I would love to see that the second-row seating would allow for the seats to move back and forth to give the occupants of the second... More »

2011 Ford Edge: Cutting Edge

By samantha f. on April 26, 2011 7:00 AM | 1 Comment

Model Driven: 2011 Ford Edge LimitedComparable Competition: Nissan Murano, Lincoln MKX, Mazda CX-7, Buick EnclaveHow much? $45,629.00 for the Limited model tested "2011 Ford Edge blends technology, design and class-leading powertrains in revamped package."- Ford Motor Company of Canada The newly re-designed 2011 Ford Edge has been catapulted into The Now. This vehicle is loaded with the latest popular technology: Touch screen In-Dash Navigational System, Sirius® Satellite Radio, and USB, AUX, and 12V power supplies; but Ford didn't stop there. In the Limited model, there are available features such as ambient lighting (which was also available in the... More »

2011 Infiniti M37 Sport: Family Luxury

By samantha f. on April 13, 2011 7:00 AM

Model Tested: 2011 Infiniti M37 SportComparable vehicles in its class: Audi A6, BMW 5-series, Jaguar XF, Lexus GS350How much? MSRP $65, 290 for the model testedWhen I first agreed to preview this vehicle, I was a little worried I wouldn't be able to fully enjoy it. With two small children to cart back and forth to daycare, I was concerned there wouldn't be enough room for them in the back with their boat-sized car seats. Not only did the seats fit fine, but there was more than enough room for their feet which, with car seats, tend to sit a little... More »

2011 Nissan Quest: Family in Motion

By samantha f. on March 31, 2011 9:00 AM | 1 Comment

Good-bye Soccer Mom, hello Parent's Vehicle. Nissan Canada is switching gears with their newly re-designed 2011 Quest. The focus shifting from a Soccer Mom's mini van to a Parent's Vehicle; this is a vehicle that now screams trendy, spacious, and sophisticated. The target audience for the classic mini van was always the stereotypical suburban mom chauffeuring kids to and from sports or other activities. It was the jeans, t-shirts and Keds (remember Keds?) stay-at-home-mom whose job it was to grocery shop and collect the kids. Times have changed, Nissan gets that. Forget "Ice Road Truckers", being a parent is tough. Quest celebrates these challenging moments with a vehicle... More »

2011 Subaru Forester: Well-Equipped for Family Fun

By samantha f. on March 21, 2011 9:00 AM | 1 Comment

Model Tested: 2011 Subaru Forester 2.5X with 4-speed automatic transmission, including Manual Mode p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'} Comparable vehicles in its class: Nissan Rogue, Hyundai TusconHow much? MSRP $27, 095The 2011 Forester has had a bit of a facelift. This year's model enhancements are subtle: the front grille, alloy rims, new material seats and! all models include two-setting heated seats! There's really nothing better than heated seats, is there?This vehicle was a very easy acclimation. The size is not intimidating, the blind spots - or lack thereof - were comfortably learned, and the space... More »

XM Snap!: Plug and Play Satellite Radio

By samantha f. on February 21, 2011 9:00 AM | 1 Comment

If you own, or have driven a newer vehicle lately, it's likely you've noticed increasingly more models are coming out with satellite radio as a standard option. Seriously, just google "satellite radio new cars standard" and you'll see what I mean. Automaker after automaker seems to include an introductory package (typically a 6-month free trial) with a new car purchase. That's all well and great for those of us who may be in the market for a new car, but what about those whom are driving older models? Well, there are some options: pay an aftermarket audio store, of if you're... More »

2011 Subaru Legacy: And I Thought It Was a Grandpa Car

By samantha f. on February 6, 2011 7:02 PM | 3 Comments

Model Tested: 2011 Subaru Legacy 2.5i equipped with Sport Package and 6-speed Manual Transmission Competition in its class: Infiniti G Sedan, Chevrolet Malibu, Audi A4, Mazda 6 How much? MSRP $27, 995 I've long equated the Subaru Legacy as a "Grandpa Car", simply for the fact that my grandpa has always had one. For as long as I can remember there has always been a Subaru Legacy in my grandpa's driveway; not the same one, mind you, he would, and continues, to get a new one every couple of years. Grandpa Car = over-sized, slow, no bells and whistles, and... More »

TomTom is Fun-Fun

By samantha f. on January 21, 2011 11:22 AM | 13 Comments

This review could have seriously been broken out into at least two parts. I just really wanted to tell you what I think of the TomTom GPS. I know it's long (and well worth the read) but to help you along, I've highlighted some points, bulleted others and underlined the awesome stuff. :::GPS was never really been my thing. I used it once on a road trip to see my dear friend Casey (@mooshinindy) in 2009 when another UrbanMom, Ali (@alimartell), and I travelled to Indianapolis with our friend Karen (@karensugarpants) and borrowed my Dad's GPS unit. We named the voice... More »

Winter Ready. Or Not.

By samantha f. on January 2, 2011 12:00 AM | 9 Comments

I have never owned a set of winter tires. There, I said it. I've lived in Canada all my life, I grew up in the Snowbelt - the one between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay (yes, there's more than one) - yet no winter tires. In fact, the only winter preparation I do is the under coating on my Malibu Maxx since it's part of the warranty package we purchased when we bought the car. I naively believe that because I live in the Greater Toronto Area, there is no point to snow tires because once it does fly, the... More »

2011 Ford Fiesta: Get Your Party On.

By samantha f. on December 3, 2010 9:00 AM | 2 Comments

Model Tested: 2011 Ford Fiesta 4-door Sedan Competition in its class: Mazda MAZDA2, Nissan Versa S, Chevrolet AVEO5 LT, Hyundai AccentHow much? MSRP starting at $16,099.00 for the 4-door SE Sedan First impression was, "Aw, cute little car!" Yes, that's a typical reaction from me when it comes to cars. Cute! Sweet! Beautiful! At one time or another I've used all of those words to describe a car. Drives my husband INSANE. The Fiesta is a sporty looking compact car that offers a lot more than one may assume at first glance. This baby came well equipped with power windows... More »

Taking Auto Reviews to The 2.0

By samantha f. on November 16, 2010 6:06 PM | 7 Comments

Ladies and gentlemen, it brings me great pleasure to announce: I have taken over this joint. Word to your mother and all that jazz. My job is to bring UrbanMoms Auto Reviews to a whole new level. 2.0 if you will. Don't get me wrong, my predecessors did a bang up job (haha get it? Cars? Bang up? Car humour is awesome. You wait, I have more of those), but I'm going to (try) and take it up a notch, raise the bar a little. More cars, more news and more fun reviews - with snark. So to begin: my... More »

Bigger, Lighter, Cheaper: The all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey

By Member on October 26, 2010 2:15 PM | 2 Comments

UrbanMoms sent Ed, one of our very loyal readers to test out the new 2011 Honda Odyssey. When he is not testing out new cars, you can find Ed on twitter or on his blog, The Crime Traveller. They had me at "ultra-wide split-screen display with HDMI inputs." You can be forgiven for thinking that I'm ogling the latest drool-inducing home theatres at Future Shop. In fact, I'm sitting in the plush leather third row of Honda's entirely redesigned 2011 Odyssey minivan watching Matt Damon dodge bullets in The Bourne Supremacy. While I have no doubt that High School Musical or Bob The... More »

2011 Infiniti M Series

By Gav on August 5, 2010 11:54 AM | 1 Comment

The M36X by Infiniti exudes luxury from start to finish. It is almost a nod to the classy cars (think Cadillac) of yesteryear. A spacious interior with beautiful details and fantastic control that leaves you feeling like you rule the road. Model Tested: 2011 M56X Key Competitors: Mercedes E class, Lexus GS, BMW 5-series, Jaguar XFPrice: starting at $68,700Urban Mom's Rating: 3 of 4Urban Mom Tester's Topline: There is so much room in this car, you have to remind yourself it's not an SUV. The roomy seats and high tech dashboard make it easy to fall in love with at first sight. So many great... More »

What a Blast!

By Gav on August 4, 2010 8:17 AM

I recently had an opportunity to attend my first auto race: The Honda Indy, which took place at Exhibition Place in Toronto. I had heard that they try and make auto races a family affair, but any time I asked any of my friends what I should expect, all anyone had to say was "take earplugs". While that advice definitely rang true (the buzz of the cars was deafening as soon as we parked our car outside the race grounds), I could not have been more pleasantly surprised by the wealth of family entertainment provided throughout the day. All of the... More »

2010 Infiniti G37

By Gav on June 29, 2010 12:08 PM | 1 Comment

Infiniti vehicles are all about luxury. It is not the car you will let your kids in with their muddy soccer shoes, or the car you will let them eat rice cakes and drink giant slurpees in. That being said, luxury cars are no longer just toys for boys. Moms can have their fun as well - and are gaining an increasing presence in the luxury car marketplace.    So, looking at the G37 for what it is, a luxury vehicle, it fell a bit short in our assessment. Yes, it had so many great features and perks that you come... More »

2010 Nissan cube

By Kath on June 1, 2010 9:26 AM | 1 Comment

We loved this car. LOVED. IT. Quirky, funky, eye-catching and fun, the Nissan cube also delivers a heck of a punch in performance, comfort and storage. And with an affordable sticker price and crazy-good fuel efficiency, this might just be one of my favourite cars yet.Model Tested: 2010 cube 1.8SKey Competitors: 2010 Honda Fit, 2010 Scion xB (Toyota), 2010 Kia SoulPrice: starting at $17,398Urban Mom's Rating: Urban Mom Tester's Topline: Love. What else can I say? I was eager to drive the cube even before it arrived, and this funky, urban youth-oriented vehicle did not disappoint. It's a great car for tall... More »

2011 Ford Fiesta

By Sarah on May 25, 2010 10:56 AM

Arriving this summer, the 2011 Ford Fiesta is a fantastic alternative for smaller families that don't need to drive often or are in need of a second vehicle. Boasting luxury not often seen in its class, amazing fuel efficiency and playful exterior and interior features, the Fiesta is sure to wow families needing a compact, economical car to meet their driving needs.Model Tested: 2011 Ford FiestaKey Competitors: Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Nissan VersaPrice: MSRP starting at $12,999Urban Mom's Rating:Urban Mom Tester's Topline: The 2011 Ford Fiesta is a compact car that offers a big punch. Although not necessarily large enough... More »

Toyota Matrix

By Kath on April 25, 2010 10:07 AM | 1 Comment

This car is my car. And by my car I don't just mean that it suits me so perfectly it should be mine; I mean, I actually own one of these. Many of you may have read about my van woes (the engine died) and my dithering over whether to fix it or just give up and buy a new one. In the end, I decided to buy a new car and the one I chose was a brand-new 2010 Toyota Matrix in nautical blue (pictured below). It's a fun, peppy car to drive, with a surprising amount of... More »

Ford Flex

By Kath on March 29, 2010 10:34 AM | 1 Comment

This was a really fun vehicle to drive, and certainly generated a lot of interest from friends, neighbours and passersby. Model Tested: 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost: A crossover utility vehicle (CUV) (transports up to 7 passengers)Key Competitors: • Chevrolet Equinox • Toyota Highlander • GMC Terrain • Dodge Journey Price: MSRP $32,699- $46,599 Urban Mom's Rating: Urban Mom Tester's Topline: Fun! This car was a lot of fun to drive. It was definitely different and funky and we garnered a lot of looks and comments wherever we went in the Ford Flex.Urban Kid Tester's Topline: The Ford Flex was a hit with the kids. With... More »

2010 B-Class Mercedes Benz: A Class Act

By Kath on March 1, 2010 8:59 AM | 2 Comments

Okay, I'm not going to pull any punches here: we LOVED this car. I was a mite worried at first that the B-Class was going to be a sort of dumbed-down version of a Mercedes; a cheaper, less luxurious and essentially stripped-down version of the archetypal luxury vehicle. Wrong! The 2010 B-Class Mercedes Benz was everything you would expect from a Mercedes, and it comes with a very palatable price tag, too.Model Tested: 2010 B-Class Mercedes Benz 4-Door HatchbackKey Competitors: Audi A3, BMW 1-Series Price: B200: $29,900 base price; B200 Turbo: $32,400 base price Urban Mom's Rating: Urban Mom Tester's Topline: Luxury. It's only one word, perhaps, but it really... More »

2010 Ford Taurus: Surprising Luxury

By Kath on February 16, 2010 9:39 AM | 3 Comments

When I was first asked to review the 2010 Ford Taurus, I will admit I had some preconceived notions. Images of the Taurus of old in my mind, I was very pleasantly surprised with the new 2010 model, which boasts a very attractive exterior and a surprisingly luxurious interior. The leather package was absolutely beautiful, there was loads of rear seat room and the trunk was huge...big enough to fit four hockey bags! Model Tested: 2010 Ford Taurus Key Competitors: Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Azera, 2010 Toyota Camry Price: MSRP starting at $29,999 (this model: $40,179), which is really the only drawback of this vehicle - this... More »

2010 Lincoln MKT Auto Review: The Ultimate Mom Test Drive

By Jen on November 26, 2009 3:54 PM | 6 Comments

I have to admit, when I first saw the Lincoln MKT I thought it looked, well, weird. Kinda shark-like mixed with a bit of a throwback to the old station wagon days. Even when I got inside, the thing seemed very long. The optional 3rd row of seats was way at the back of the bus. Honestly? My first impression was a bit lukewarm.However, this car totally won me over. This vehicle was put to the ultimate mom-test; a weekend hockey tournament road trip and major outlet shopping with a car full of girls! This vehicle was more than up... More »

2010 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid Auto Review

By Jen on November 17, 2009 8:07 AM | 4 Comments

When the folks at GM delivered the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid for the week I admit, I was a bit intimidated. This car is BIG and for urban driving I was worried it would simply be too cumbersome. I also felt like it was somewhat unnecessary, all this space. But I have to admit, this vehicle surprised me. Despite its size it is easy to maneuver, parking was a non-issue, and the space was great for carpooling and long drives.Model Tested: 2010 Cadillac Escalade HybridKey Competitors: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid, Lincoln Navigator, Lexus LX 470, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Infiniti QX56;... More »

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Swap & Drop Diet Cookbook Review!

By Cayla on June 2, 2013 5:05 PM | 7 Comments

When the warm weather finally hit last weekend, I was more than ready to swap my jeans for jean shorts, swap my hot tea for iced, and swap my crock pot for my ice cream maker. In fact I was pretty much ready to swap out everything that reminded me of winter. Thus, when Best Health magazine sent me a copy of their latest, The Swap & Drop Diet Cookbook, I was super-excited to check it out. For years, I've been a fan of Best Health magazine; as a Canadian woman, I can relate to the wide variety of articles-ranging... More »

Paradise Is What You Make It

By Alice on June 4, 2013 1:37 PM | 1 Comment

How many teen novels are about fitting in? This may be set abroad in a life few Canadian kids know, but half of the issues are universal. An Infidel in ParadiseS.J. LaidlawTundra BooksISBN: 978 1 77049 304 9Emma is an embassy kid newly landed in Pakistan on time for the first day of school. So far, she's angry about her parents' breakup that landed her there, about missing all her friends, about her brother finding a new friend fast, about being in charge of her sister often, and about having to start over in a new country with less westernized... More »

Scholastic Decoder: June 2013 Edition

By Alice on May 27, 2013 10:32 PM | No Comments

The last flyer of the year! And let's get on with it promptly, since your teachers probably want those back soon so they can get the shipments in before the - gulp - end of the year! lfYou Are My Sunshine - a cute version of the little love song, done in board book form for sharing with tiny kids. Sweet! National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Animals - Animals! Kids love animals! And National Geographic puts together a nicely-leveled, attractively photographed, and solidly informative book on the topic aimed just for them here. Cat in the Hat Science... More »

All About the Stories

By Alice on May 23, 2013 10:17 AM | 1 Comment

storytellingEasy-to-Read Wonder Tales series: It's Not About the Ball! (ISBN:978 1 77049 330 8)It's Not About the Apple! (ISBN: 978 0 88776 955 9)It's Not About the Hunter! (ISBN: 978 0 88776 948 1)It's Not About the Tiny Girl! (ISBN:978 1 77049 3292)It's Not About the Crumbs! (ISBN: 978 0 88776953 5)It's Not About the Rose! (ISBN: 978 0 88776 954 2)It's Not About the Pumpkin! (ISBN: 978 088776 9498)It's Not About the Diamonds! (ISBN:978 1770493285)It's Not About the Beanstalk! (ISBN:978 1770493278)It's Not About the Straw! (ISBN:978 1 77049 326 1)by Veronika Martenova CharlesTundra BooksThis series hinges on a very... More »

The Gritty Underworld

By Alice on May 20, 2013 8:36 PM | No Comments

Crusherby Niall LeonardDoubleday CanadaISBN: 978 0 385 67928 2Finn's life is not exactly glamorous - his dad is an out-of-work actor, his mom left when he was a little kid, and his dyslexia has held him back enough that he is working at a crummy fast food joint that he hates just to make ends sort of meet. This all looks not bad in retrospect, though, because one day he arrives home to find his dad murdered, and he's a suspect. Since the police don't seem interested in investigating too hard, he starts digging around himself, and soon finds himself... More »

Stylin'

By Alice on May 17, 2013 10:38 AM | No Comments

My sister is a stylist. Her teen years were a revolving door of trying on different styles and personas as she figured out what she wanted to wear - and some of these phases were shockingly bad, given her current profession! If only she'd had this book... Learn To Speak Fashionby Laura deCarufelOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 92697 342 5Starting from the premise that fashion is a means of expression, and can be seen as art meeting clothing, the author goes on to talk about fashion at length. What are people saying with different looks? Where does "fashion" come from? How do... More »

Dog Science/Dog Art

By Alice on May 12, 2013 1:22 PM | No Comments

There are kid books, and then there are teen books, and also there are adult books - but some books are anyone books. This is one of those. Oddly compelling, it's a blend of fascinating and amusing, and it's perfect for dog lovers. Maddie On ThingsTheron HumphreyChronicle BooksISBN: 978 1 4521 1556 6This book is subtitled "A Super Serious Project About Dog and Physics" - but it's also a collection of photos and reminiscences about traveling with a buddy. Having a foot each in different areas is perfect, since it's also about balance - specifically about a dog with phenomenal... More »

Between Dragonkind and Us

By Alice on May 7, 2013 11:17 PM | No Comments

There have been a few big series of kids books about dragons in the last few years - Inheritance and Ice Fire come to mind right away. Honestly, I haven't read them. Fantasy isn't really my area, so I read selectively, and the kids who wanted those were already into them. I had heard, though, though this new one was something a little different, and a lovely book, at that, so I dove in - and am glad I did. Seraphinaby Rachel HartmanDoubleday CanadaISBN: 978 0 385 66839 2Seraphina has a secret, and she and her father think it might... More »

Reading Wants This Mommy's Day

By Sonya on May 2, 2013 8:00 AM | No Comments

I really enjoy cozying up with a blanket, a hot cup of coffee (and a bag of popcorn) at my front window and catch up on some reading -- especially on a rainy day. Since Mother's Day is coming up I've got a reading wish list....someone tell my kids..er...hubby, please?Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl SandbergThe One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller, Jay PapasanThe Cold Hard Truth On Men, Women and Money by Kevin O'LearyThe Painted Girls by Cathy Marie BuchananLove Poems by Pablo NerudaAnd then this YouTube clip just came into my attention. It's beautiful.What... More »

Scholastic Decoder: May 2013 Edition

By Alice on April 30, 2013 4:34 PM | No Comments

It's MAY!!! At last! And the weather has suddenly turned nice like it just realized it's supposed to now that April is officially done. Shall we celebrate with some good books to enjoy outside? Elf Mouses's First Summer - I like these mouse books for the toddler age - they are simple, cover their themes nicely, and have just enough softness and sweetness, but not enough to make your teeth ache. Good introductions, aimed at just the right level. One Love - I like this adaptation of Bob Marley's classic song to have a message about community spirit. I've got... More »

Infographics for Everyone!

By Alice on April 29, 2013 9:54 PM | 1 Comment

We all love infographics, right? Information chunked into digestible little bits and represented in a pictorial spread makes things easy to understand, quick to process, and draws us in by being visually catchy. They are all over the online world, but have also long been a staple of children's non-fiction, where breaking up information into chunks has been going on for a while now. This new pair of books does a great job of making their topics accessible using this tool. The Natural World: The World in InfographicsISBN: 978 1 92697 374 6Planet Earth: The World in InfographicsISBN: 978 1... More »

Playing With Your Words

By Alice on April 26, 2013 9:42 PM | No Comments

April is Poetry Month - and always a great opportunity to encourage kids to have fun with language. Paper Dolls by Julia DonaldsonHarperCollinsISBN: 978 0 230 74108 9This story is about a little girl and the string of dolls she made and took on adventures, and also about how things may disappear, but live on in memory, and about making paper dolls one day with her own little girl. It's lovely and sweet and fun, without ever lingering too much on either the awfulness of boys with scissors or on the sweetness of how things go on. A bit of... More »

Fine Furry Friends

By Alice on April 21, 2013 9:08 PM | No Comments

A pet can be a best friend - if dreams are lived up to. Or they can have a mind of their own - or other, less savoury drawbacks. Choose wisely, kids! These girls have had to make certain adjustments to their expectations... A Pet for Petuniaby Paul SchmidHarperCollinsISBN: 978 1 06196 331 5Petunia loves skunks. Small, cute, they are everything she wants, and what she wants is a pet skunk. Her parents refuse, to no one's surprise but Petunia. Thwarted and grumpy, she goes into the woods, where she meets one and discovers that her parents are right, they... More »

Aftermath

By Alice on April 19, 2013 10:52 PM | No Comments

Reading this book this week was timely, since it deals with the aftermath of a tragic event and how the family members are affected. Moving forward from something traumatic is not an easy thing, and we have a window here into how Henry starts to make his way, with a little help. The Reluctant Journal of Henry K Larsenby Susin NielsenTundra BooksISBN: 978 1 77049 372 8I loved Word Nerd, by Susin Nielsen, who knows her way around giving good quirky, offbeat characters, and even writes that lovable nerd, Ambrose, into this book as a minor character. This book is... More »

Get Moving

By Alice on April 15, 2013 10:51 AM | No Comments

Whether you are trying to get a young one moving and stretching or feeding the sports obsession of a bigger kid, I've got something for you! The Yoga Gameby Kathy BeliveauSimply Read BooksISBN: 978 1 89747 672 7Little kids need some work on their gross motor skills and on their paying-attention skills, and yoga makes for a nice activity to help in both these areas. But how to get a kid interested in something that is complex for some adults, not to mention how to answer the questions about the names of the poses? How about making a game of... More »

Artsy Goods

By Alice on April 12, 2013 9:26 PM | 1 Comment

Some kids like to be freely creative - and that's great. Some need a little nudge, or even some lines to colour in, and for those kids, I have a couple of great new activity books. Windblownby Edouard ManceauOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 92697 377 7Scraps of paper are blowing in the wind... bright colours and interesting shapes appear on the page. Whose are they? Different animals claim them, each demonstrating how you could make a chicken, a fish, a frog, and so on out of them. In the end, the wind scatters them again and delivers them to the reader, asking... More »

Scholastic Decoder: April 2013 Edition

By Alice on April 10, 2013 2:27 PM | 1 Comment

April... 10th? Wha? Suddenly, days are flying by, and it's time to post the Decoder. There's some fun stuff in here - enjoy! ElfFavourite Authors & Illustrators Pack - I'm not always fond of the packs, which can be pretty mixed, but this is a great pack, with some really solid stuff in it. Plant a Kiss - a sweet little story from Amy K Rosenthal about the joy of spreading the love, illustrated by Peter Reynolds. I reviewed it last year here. Shel Silverstein Collection - I'm a huge fan of Shel's work, and these are, in my opinion,... More »

Springiness In The Air

By Alice on April 1, 2013 11:16 PM | 1 Comment

Okay, yesterday, there was springiness in the air, today not so much. Such is the way of spring, but I am still ready for her, and the first of these books is with me. The second? Well, what better time to visit a farm than when all the little animals have been born? I call it springy, too. Sorting Through SpringLizann FlattOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 92697 359 3This book looks at patterns, probability, and more using nature to illustrate. On each double-page spread, a short verse asks questions that lead you to look at the illustrations and find patterns. There are... More »

Easter Already?

By Alice on March 29, 2013 9:12 PM

Wasn't it just February, with all the complaining about the endlessness of winter? March has gone insanely fast, and here we are, nearly at the end, with Easter just days away. Sweet! In celebration, my new favourite Easter title. The Easter Bunny's Assistantby Jam ThomasHarperCollinsISBN: 978 0 061 69286 4A Bunny is going to dye eggs, and Skunk is going to help as they teach us, too. Skunk is so excited! And when Skunk gets excited... yuk. Can he contain his enthusiasm enough to allow Bunny to make the eggs? As hard as he tries, Bunny ends up putting him... More »

New Friends Are Silver

By Alice on March 24, 2013 1:57 PM

As I often say, I'm a sucker for friendship stories, and these two are very different examples. One is sweet, and one is more of a moral tale of what you could miss out on if you're not open to new people. Both great-looking new books for two different situations - check out the interior spreads as well, they really are an attractive pair. Flora and the Flamingoby Molly IdleChronicle BooksISBN: 978 1 4521 1006 6This wordless picture book depicts a girl and a flamingo getting to know each other and building the start of a friendship as the girl... More »

Ghosts Have Known

By Alice on March 18, 2013 4:47 PM | 1 Comment

Part story of fitting in, part ghost story, part a point about standing up for yourself, this teen graphic is a great read with a few good themes running through it. Who says comics need to be simplistic? Anya's Ghostby Vera BrogosolFirst Second BooksISBN: 978 1 59643 552 0Anya is not at all thrilled with life. She is, after all, a teenager, and a teenager who doesn't really fit in well at her prep school, what with being the teensiest bit plump, her immigrant mom, and not being rich. So it seems like the best thing that ever happened when... More »

Novel Girl Review: The Diviners

By Novel Girl on March 17, 2013 3:29 PM | 1 Comment

Cover Synopses Evie O'Neill has been exiled from her boring old hometown and shipped off to the bustling streets of New York City--and she is pos-i-tute-ly ecstatic. It's 1926, and New York is filled with speakeasies, Ziegfeld girls, and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is that she has to live with her uncle Will and his unhealthy obsession with the occult.Evie worries he'll discover her darkest secret: a supernatural power that has only brought her trouble so far. But when the police find a murdered girl branded with a cryptic symbol and Will is called to the scene, Evie realizes... More »

Continue reading Novel Girl Review: The Diviners.

Novel Girl Review: The Diviners

By Novel Girl on March 17, 2013 3:29 PM | 1 Comment

Continue reading Novel Girl Review: The Diviners.

Those Magic Moments

By Alice on March 15, 2013 11:40 PM

There are moments when a kid strikes upon just the right thing, and magic happens. In these two books, kids transform something difficult into a tender and wonderful moment, just by chance and instinct, and the magic of a connection is formed. A Song for My Sisterby Lesley SimpsonRandom HouseISBN: 978 1 58246 427 5Mira's wish for a sister comes true at long last, but the baby, when she finally arrives, has some serious lung power, and Mira is none too impressed. By the time her naming ceremony comes around, Mira is suggesting they call her Siren or Thunder in... More »

Twoo Wuv

By Alice on March 10, 2013 8:25 PM

Was last month Valentine's Day? Yes. Did I write about it? No. Did I then find two cute books about loveyness? Of course! But instead of waiting for a proper occasion, I'm going to share them with you now, because really, shouldn't every day be lovey? True Loveby Rachel BuchholzNational GeographicISBN: 978 1 4262 1036 5This sweet book is full of little anecdotes about animals who have shown each other devotion, from friends to siblings to mates. They are accompanied by sweet photos of affectionate animals, along with quotations about love and friendship. The whole thing is not really an... More »

Scholastic Decoder: March 2013 Edition

By Alice on March 4, 2013 11:28 AM

March! March Break is here, with the promise of time for leisure reading... Need some material? Let's see what we've got here...ElfMrs. McNosh Hangs Up Her Wash - A fun, silly little rhyme perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, who thrive on rhymes. I'm Fast! - Any fan of trains and things that go is likely to enjoy this. it's the latest in a series, and while some in the series are better than others, they are great fun to read aloud if you're willing to get a little ridiculous. Kids loooove these! Don't Worry Bear - these are sweet, reassuring... More »

Mass Hysteria, 1882

By Alice on February 28, 2013 8:59 PM | 2 Comments

Teen books can take on some heavy topics - but rarely have I found one as disturbing as this historical fiction about the last "blood libel" trail in Europe. A good read, and important case study in hate and hysteria, it is nonetheless a hard one to look at straight on. Puppetby Eva WisemanTundra BooksISBN: 978 1 77049 296 7There was once a lie that lasted for centuries. It's not the only one that has existed, but it is especially heinous to think that people believed Jews murdered gentile children and baked their blood into a ritual bread. This was... More »

Homonyms Made Fun?

By Alice on February 25, 2013 9:42 PM | 1 Comment

True story! instead of being a boring grammar lesson, homonyms are fun, and even worthy of a game to continue the fun once you turn the last page with this charming picture book take. Where do You Look? by Marthe JocelynTundra BooksISBN: 978 1 7704 9376 6A pleasing square format and fun paper-collage illustrations filled with details give this book a bright and playful feel that matches well with the text, which turns learning into a game. For several examples of homonyms, Jocelyn asks us where we look for something. Where do you look for a tongue? In a shoe?... More »

Who is behind the S.E.C.R.E.T. ?

By Sonya on February 21, 2013 10:31 AM

I quickly picked up a copy of the novel S.E.C.R.E.T. when I was rushing to grab a few Valentine's Day cards in the bookstore last week. There was a pile of them sitting close to the cash desk and I had remembered that it was recommended as a sizzling hot title for Valentine's from my friends at Kobo (yes, you can download it too). Like the chocolate bar, this was a total impulse purchase. I got on the subway and with a long ride ahead it was a good time to start reading. On my return home on the train, things... More »

What's hot on stage now: Clybourne Park

By Sonya on February 20, 2013 10:30 AM | 1 Comment

CLYBOURNE PARK takes place in a suburban Chicago neighbourhood in the 1950s and continues through two generations with a window view of the changing social landscape. It's a satirical look at demographics, history, home and heart with a modern twist on race, class, property ownership and community. The play takes you back to episodes of Archie Bunker sitting in his big daddy chair with the same sense of offensive humour. The play is split in two scenarios and delivers a sharp and entertaining comedy. First being the average white family post-war times. The second reveals a turn around of events but... More »

Return of the Screech Owls

By Alice on February 19, 2013 2:36 PM

Books don't always have to be new to be good, right? Enter the reissue, when publisher dust off some good stuff and republish it with a new look to appeal to a new crop of kids. This series is nearly 20 years old, but is ripe for reading by a whole new generation with a little rebranding. Screech Owls: Mystery at Lake Placid (978 1 77049 413 8)The Night They Stole the Stanley Cup (978 1 77049 414 5)Peril At The World's Biggest Hockey... More »

Truth, Or Something Like It

By Alice on February 19, 2013 12:37 AM | 1 Comment

This fascinating teen novel about two girls in World War II is a story of friendship and courage unlike any other story I've read about this era. Code Name Verityby Elizabeth E. WeinDoubleday CanadaISBN: 978 0 385 67654 0This story starts out with how a working class girls became a pilot and how two friends came together, one of whom we figure out is the narrator, who is writing an account of everything she knows for her Nazi captors. She spins out their story, dropping in little details here and there that might be useful, and talks about how she... More »

Between the Covers

By Sonya on February 11, 2013 5:34 PM

Is it hot in here? My goodness!! Not only is Justin Timberlake's new song "Suit & Tie" sexy, but I've been getting some pretty steamy ideas from some friends who work in PR these past few weeks (lucky hubby *snort*). Ok, I know Valentine's has become a more than cards and flowers for some. No pressure. And well, it's just fun and it's another day to get us through winter, right? Ever notice the surge in birthdays in November? Ahem. Anyway, it's THAT week, and since so many of you love the Fifty Shades of HAWTNESS series (and to get you in... More »

Scholastic Decoder: February 2013 Edition

By Alice on February 7, 2013 9:46 PM

February! And with it comes lots of holiday and theme month goodies to cover Chinese New Year, Black History Month, 100th day, and Valentine's Day. These flyers are jammed with stuff for these, but also some of the usual mix of good stuff, not so good stuff, and some of our usual repeaters. Getting out my circling pen... ElfCelebrate Our Differences! Pack - Books with purpose can be difficult - often, they are not great reading, and preachiness is a pet peeve of mine. These, however, are more celebratory or straightforward. I like the photos of people of all colours... More »

Trilogies: Guaranteed Frustration That's Worth It

By Alice on February 3, 2013 10:50 PM

Last year I read Blood Red Road, the hefty first part of a new trilogy by debut author Moira Young, and was so disappointed when it ended and I was going to have to WAIT for part two. I also went ahead and pushed it on everyone I knew, so they could be just as disappointed - you're welcome, everyone. But! I've just finished Part Two... and now I'm in just the same state of anticipation again. Will I learn some day? Not likely. Rebel HeartDust Lands 2by Moira YoungDoubleday CanadaISBN: 978 0 385 67186 6At the end of the... More »

Non-Fiction For Fun

By Alice on January 30, 2013 10:43 PM | 1 Comment

Non-fiction can be serious and informative, perfect for school projects and teaching materials. Non-fiction can also be fun, readable, and informative, perfect for leisure reading and exploring topics of interest and yes, also teaching. These two are in fun picture formats, and have a narrative feel that makes them nicely accessible to kids who may be curious, but still want to enjoy their reading experience. Cryptic Canada: Unsolved Mysteries from Coast to Coastby Natalie HydeOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 926 97343 2Seven mysteries and fascinating, unexplained phenomena from across Canada have been brought together to baffle and intrigue kids who like a... More »

Robot Buddies

By Alice on January 28, 2013 9:29 PM

My little guy is all about the robots these days. Also Star Wars, but that was my stupid move in introducing him to R2D2, who was apparently some sort of gateway drug into a galaxy far far away, but that's another saga. Today, we're back to the robots. Got a little artificial intelligence nerd of your own? Read on...Clinkby Kelly DiPucchio and Matthew MyersBalzer & BrayISBN: 978 0 06 192928 1On first reading, I felt a little "meh" about this one, but I read it again, because i wanted to see if I was willing to put it on my guy's... More »

Warning: Teen Boy Thoughts

By Alice on January 20, 2013 11:22 PM

Books aimed at teen boys, like books aimed at teen girls, need to talk to their audience and tap into a pretty realistic voice to really work. For a guy, this means antics as well as emotions, and crude humour along with coming of age. don't say I didn't warn you... Carter's Unfocused One-Track Mindby Brent CrawfordHyperionISBN: 978 1 42314 445 8Pretty much exactly a year ago, I read the first two books starring Carter, which I heartily enjoyed. Carter, or Will Carter, to his parents and teachers, is a pretty standard teenage guy, if a little on the sensitive... More »

Scholastic Decoder: January 2013 Edition

By Alice on January 16, 2013 10:50 PM | 1 Comment

It seems late in the month to be doing a Decoder, but I just got our flyers today, so I'm not the only one late off the mark, what with school starting a bit late in the month and getting back into routines. But! here we are, familiar newsprint flyers in hand. Let's dive in, shall we? ElfChinese New Year Pack - Two books makes for a nice taste without being so big a pack as to be bringing in less-than-great material. The Runaway Wok is a cute, Asian-flavoured take on the runaway gingerbread man/pancake/tortilla story we all know and... More »

An interview with Nadha Hassen: Global Changemaker & about Dancing in the Rain

By Sonya on March 8, 2013 11:30 AM

Sometimes you find a book that is so sweet. So wonderful and meaningful. Dancing in the Rain is just that book. It's a collection of short stories for children and families that touch on real issues in a positive way reminding us all that life should be celebrated. I had a chance to ask the 23 year old author, Nadha Hassen, about her inspiration and motivation to make a difference. What inspired you to write this book?Nadha: Working with diverse children and youth who were living with a number of health issues and coming from different home environments was the inspiration behind... More »

The Text Talk Game

By Alice on January 12, 2013 10:09 PM

So you all have seen the way teens type on their cell phones, yes? With numbers and abbreviations and whatnots? A favourite author is now bringing the fun to the younger set with this book that turns it into a game. WumbersAmy Krouse RosenthalChronicle BooksISBN: 978 1 4521 1022 6The cover says it all: "It's a book! It's a game! it's words cre8ed with numbers!" Rosenthal and partner in crime Tom Lichtenheld pair a handful situations that demonstrate the game with comic-style illustrations that are not only great fun, but necessarily move the whole affair into the visual so you... More »

Same Difference

By Alice on January 6, 2013 5:06 PM

Looking to explore the idea that people are the same - except for a few small differences? This is a cute and simple way to go about it without getting into specifics just yet. Up Above and Down Belowby Paloma ValdiviaOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 926973 39 5In the world of this book, there are two kinds of people - the people who are up above and the people who are down below. They are pretty much the same, but they think they are different. Really, their differences are small and geography-based. If they all mingled together, we find, it would be... More »

Novel Girl Review: Wither

By Novel Girl on February 15, 2013 11:00 AM | 3 Comments

Cover SynopsesIn the not-too-distant future, genetic engineering has turned every newborn into a ticking time bomb: Males die at age 25 and females die at age 20. While scientists seek a miracle antidote, young girls are routinely kidnapped and sold as polygamous brides to bear more children. When sixteen year old Rhine is taken, she enters a world of wealth and privilege that both entices and terrifies her. She has everything she ever wanted--except freedom.Soon it becomes clear that not everyone at her new husband's home is how they appear. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing... More »

Novel Girl Review: Wither

By Novel Girl on February 15, 2013 11:00 AM | 3 Comments

Novel Girl Review: The HOST

By Novel Girl on January 15, 2013 11:00 AM | 2 Comments

Cover Synopsys: Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away.Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy that takes over the minds of human hosts while leaving their body intact. But Wanderer, the invading "soul" who occupies Melanie's body, finds its former tenant refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.As Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of Jared, a human who lives in hiding, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she's never met. Soon Wanderer and Melanie-reluctant allies-set off to search for the man they both love.Featuring one of the most unusual love triangles in literature, THE HOST is a riveting and... More »

Novel Girl Review: The HOST

By Novel Girl on January 15, 2013 11:00 AM | 2 Comments

Opposites That Attract

By Alice on December 30, 2012 10:49 PM

There are lots of books that fall under the heading "concept books" - books about shapes, colours, patterns, emotions, and vocabulary like opposites. New ones are always welcome, as far as I'm concerned, because I can only read the same one so many times - and now I have two new ones to share! What's Up, Bear? by Frieda WishinskyOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 926973 41 8I have, I have to be honest here, a soft spot for books about or set in New York - it's nostalgia, pure and simple, and I don't even bother trying to fight it. So having... More »

Soundtrack for Life

By Alice on December 27, 2012 11:45 PM

Tehre are lots of teen books with a music theme - and I read a lot of them because, like the teens they are aimed at, I love music, so I'm drawn to them. It's simple - but the books aren't always simple and fluffy stuff. These two are solid reads about kids trying to find their way - and making their own background music. Harmonic Feedbackby Tara KellyHenry HoltISBN: 978 0 8050 9010 9Drea has moved yet again, and is thrilled to immediately make a friend in Naomi. Friends don't come easy to Drea, who has ADHD and Asperger's... More »

Reading for the Reluctant

By Alice on December 23, 2012 10:15 AM

There are kids who are not naturally drawn to reading. i may not understand that, but I know these kids, see in their faces that they are not enjoying being dragged around the library by their moms and having things that don't interest them offered over and over. hat to do? Interest them, of course! Find materials on their passions, be it sports, music, robots, whatever. That, and ask your librarian or bookseller about high interest titles. There are those books that no kid can resist - the ones with fascinating snippets of information are a great example. A lot... More »

Tangled Tinsel and Other Travesties

By Alice on December 20, 2012 11:29 PM | 1 Comment

You know a book has potential for gifting when your daughter grabs it off your review pile before you even get to write about it, begging to have it for herself. I let her - it's Christmas, after all. My Beastly Book of Tangled TinselOwlKidsISBN: 978 1 926973 55 5I theoretically prefer to give a child blank paper and supplies and let them make up their own stuff - but then, I also remember loving colouring. Somewhere between these two extremes lie these doodle books, which give kids a prompt, and then let them run with it. For the child... More »

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Humidity. Ugh.

By Sonya on May 31, 2013 10:15 AM | No Comments

I truly understand when people talk about dry heat versus what we get here in Toronto. We've just had our first heat advisory of the year (yeah, finally). Remember? We go from cold to hot in a nano second.A couple weeks ago I was in Palm Springs, California. It was hot... like 100 degrees hot. But you could still function and not feel like you need shower every minute of the day. The desert heat doesn't zap you the same way the heat does here. Here at home my skin goes bananas in the humidity. I get all shiny-faced and I... 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 »

Let Me Hand It To You

By Jennifer on April 22, 2013 6:48 PM | No Comments

Oh shoulder season, you are seriously killing me. Sunny and 18 degrees one day; strip down to bare legs and skip through daisies. Blustery, snowy and minus 1 the next day; dig out your parka, bundle up and endure another day of Mother Nature's wrath. What's a girl to do with the state of her skin? My hands are parched and cracking from the bitter cold, exposed and tough from digging in the garden. Here's the sweetest treat I've come across all week...Live Clean Exotic Nectar Argan Oil Hand Cream. It's perfect for this in-between weather. The argan oil is extra rich... More »

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 »

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 »

Nella Bella is ALL THAT....and vegan too!

By Sonya on March 9, 2013 7:33 PM | 2 Comments

In a glass enclosed space at the St. James Cathedral located in the heart of the city, was the beautiful setting for the Nella Bella Fall/Winter 2013 collections preview event. With the twinkle from the city lights bouncing on the historical church as a backdrop, some of the city's most fashionable were on hand to toast Tarek Al-Azbat, Creative Director and Head Designer, and his stunning line of handbags and accessories for the Canadian company. And the fashion set knows quality when they see it. Functionality and style is key to this all-vegan line and Tarek Al-Azbat knows what women want. He's been... More »

Red, Ouchy and Itchy.

By Sonya on January 30, 2013 11:53 AM

Can you relate? You know that feeling of skin scratched beyond comfortable? Add winter and it just makes matters worse. I find myself searching for really, really good creams this time of year for not only myself but for my mom, sister and my little one who has a few dry patches on his otherwise soft little cheeks.I just want a cream that works. That takes the itchiness away and soothes the red irritations. My mom always had dry cracked hands to the point of bleeding soreness. As a child, I remember how she was always trying different hand creams to... More »

Pucker Up! Who has the best lips?

By Sonya on January 16, 2013 12:54 PM

It was freezing in LA when the stars walked the Red Carpet at the Golden Globes and I could see the goosebumps even on my high-def TV, but they still looked AH-MAZING and flawless. Like many, I tuned in several hours before the actual awards show to check out who was wearing what. After all, the style and beauty is part of the fun, right? So, who had the best lips on the red carpet? Hands-down winner for me was Jessica Alba.I LOVED her matte coral lips by make up artist Lauren Anderson. And I was happy to see a... More »

Urban Luxury at the Four Seasons Hotel Spa

By Sonya on January 7, 2013 2:07 PM | 1 Comment

I must be one of those people - the hard to buy for. Over the holidays (which was also close to my birthday) I was given a few gift cards to enjoy at various spas around the city. My friends and family know me well. I don't need or want a lot of "stuff" but I love "experiences" and spas are always on the top of my list. That, and bubble bath.... Molton Brown or Dayna Decker, thanks!So, once all the holiday entertaining was out of the way, it was time to sloooowww things down. For me, it was time to... More »

We're talking football. Stylish football

By Jason on November 4, 2012 8:18 AM | 5 Comments

I played football growing up, both recreationally as a youth at recess and as a junior right offensive tackle for the Northern Red Knights in high school. In fact, one of the greatest sports memories I have was coming back from a 20-6 halftime deficit to defeat our dreaded rival the North Toronto Norsemen (sorry Jen) 28-26, with our team scoring a last second touchdown to win the Toronto city championship. It was the stuff dreams are made of, except that my dad left at halftime thinking we were done like dinner. Thanks pops. Clothing retailer, Old Navy, who I... More »

Bathtime with Live Clean!

By Jennifer on October 24, 2012 5:17 PM | 2 Comments

Brrrrrr....the air has taken a decided turn, mornings and evenings are greyer and darker, and I find myself reverting to my primal ancestors' habits and preparing for a long winter's nap.Scratch that, I can't hide away in a cave until the first sign of Spring, so I need to find other ways to deal with the oncoming Winter, and Live Clean has provided a great antidote to the chill of the season.Long one of my favourite Canadian companies offering great hair care, baby products and beauty options, Live Clean has recently launched a Spa Therapy line with six eco-friendly products... More »

A look inside my purse and a contest!

By Sonya on October 24, 2012 10:18 AM | 147 Comments

Have you seen inside my purse? I'm almost embarrassed to show you but my friend Chantel gave me one of those "hey, um, girlfriend, where's the kitchen sink?" looks as she laughs. But then I see hers and it's just as jammed packed! I LOVE handbags. I mean really LOVE them. My friend Tracey (style maven over at the Urban Closet) and I both agree that we can get away with cheating on clothes but we both have a love for nice quality shoes and purses. It's Fashion Week so plenty of runway shows and rushing around in between homework and parties... More »

Getting into the Olympic Spirit!

By Sonya on July 27, 2012 12:00 PM

The Summer Olympics have arrived and to get into the spirit of things, here are some fun ways to show your support for our athletes!Go to the official Canadian Olympic Team Website for all you want to know about the the games and the athletes. www.olympic.caDownload the official Canadian Olympic Team APP on iTunes and receive updates from the team and cheer them on!Riding on the trend of Nail Art...Do it yourself I (heart) Canada nails - spotted on the Hudson's Bay Company Pinterest page. ... More »

Know Your SPF

By Jennifer on July 20, 2012 7:29 PM

As I mentioned in my last post, we've just spent a week by the ocean in beautiful, sunny South Carolina. We've been making this road trip since I was the same age as my oldest son. Over the past thirty years, many traditions have developed, and we tend to visit the same restaurants, hit the same shops, and spend our days the same way, year after year. As we headed north for our very long drive home, I realized there was a marked difference in one area; our attitude to the sun. Traveling back as a teenager I can remember my... More »

Schick Hydro Silk

By Jennifer on July 9, 2012 8:21 PM | 1 Comment

Late last week, we packed up the car, loaded the kids and started what ends up being a 16 hour drive to find sun, surf and undivided family attention in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.This is our fourth summer making this annual family pilgrimage, and we've developed some amazing traditions and try something new every year.So far there has been planty of thisand thiswith a little of this thrown in for good measure.I've spent a considerable amount of these first few days patting myself on the back for all that I remembered to pack in our bags. The boys have... More »

Packing my (Eye) Bags Up!

By Jennifer on June 8, 2012 11:44 AM | 1 Comment

These days are busy.From Saturday to Saturday this week we had three baseball tournaments in three different cities (on top of four regularly scheduled baseball games), two soccer games and a flag football game. We celebrated the birthdays of two of my three children, our 16th wedding anniversary and my son attended two bar mitzvahs. At work I had a professional conference (with evening social) and my husband had two days of off-site training, which meant a heavier work load on the days he was able to get in. Phew. Throw in a school fun fair, a field trip and... More »

Sun Smarts for Mom

By Jennifer on May 28, 2012 10:11 PM

This hot sultry summer weather is not well-suited for many things...but it has been absolutely perfect for a real test drive of a couple of new sunscreen products, and I'm thrilled to report that these have exceeded expectations. As a mother, I'm extremely cautionary about applying proper SPF and proper dosage to my kids before sending them off for school, swim dates or soccer games. However, I'm extremely lazy about protecting my own skin unless I'm spending hours exposed. Experts tell us that we should be applying sunscreen every day to protect us from the aging and cancer causing UVA rays... More »

CHOOZE Shoes ~ A stylish step in the right direction.

By Sonya on June 6, 2012 10:45 AM | 4 Comments

They are meant to be miss-matched. One is not like the other. And they've got personality! Shoe designer Sharon Blumberg founded CHOOZE shoes that are not only cute and adorned by celebrity kiddies like Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and Nahla Aubry but the year-old company has big plans to support anti-poverty programs around the world. I was interested in finding out more after receiving a press release and invitation to the media preview in West Hollywood (sadly I had missed it by a few days on my recent trip out that way, but her fun designs and her company's initiatives caught my eye!) so... More »

Vichy Personalized Skin Diagnosis

By Jennifer on April 30, 2012 11:48 PM

Recently the wonderful folks at Vichy Laboratoires invited me for a personalized skin diagnosis. I have been to dermatologists and aestheticians, and I thought I had a pretty good handle on how to care for my largest organ, but I'm always open to more information.First the skincare specialist asked me a number of questions about my skin concerns and sensitivity, and then he pulled out the tools...At first I was taken aback my the clinical nature of some of these tools. I was concerned about being zipped and zapped right then and there, but as I put my face in... More »

Weddings & The Next Time Around

By Sonya on May 23, 2012 12:01 PM | 3 Comments

I was recently invited to a wedding show. You know, where vendors gush all over brides-to-be who are all hoping to secure their DJs, party favours, cakes, accessories, and make up artists for their "big day". Well, I was on a "mission" to source out some interesting wedding ideas for the "secondary bridal market" -for those who have decided to get married after careers are established or on their second marriage.What I've realized is that this market is often over looked...and they shouldn't be! I've noticed within my circle of friends, who are at this stage is that they often... More »

Are You An Over-Styler?

By Sonya on February 28, 2012 9:57 PM | 2 Comments

My BFF goes for blow-outs probably twice a week at the local blo-bar. She loves her hair to be perfect and between work and her 3 kids she simply cannot find the time to do her own hair. Then there's me. I would LOVE my hair to be perfect all the time but I'd rather save my $$ and do it myself. Raise your hand if you're with me...do you use a hairdryer, curling iron and/or straightening iron ALL THE TIME? ...I do. But when I do my own hair I must admit that I KNOW that I'm doing damage especially to... More »

Mom Entrepreneur: Picasso Hair Feathers

By Carol on November 27, 2011 10:20 PM

Several months ago I was online, searching for hair feathers for both myself and my clients. I loved the look of them! However in my searches, I came across a few articles from PETA that immediately changed my opinion about wearing rooster feathers in my hair. Although I loved how they looked, to me it wasn't worth sacrificing an animal for. When I couldn't find a cruelty-free hair feather supplier, I decided to create my own. Using heat resistant synthetic materials we created a selection of bright colored feathers that would last several weeks of washing, blow-drying and styling.With my... More »

From My Closet - November 25th, 2011

By Tracey on November 25, 2011 4:00 PM | 8 Comments

So, it was my birthday yesterday, and in between getting cards, and calls, and lovenotes on Facebook and whatnot, I slipped out of the house for half the morning, and perused my precious Forever 21, and basically bought the store picked up a few things. Like this cute little skirt, which has more of a strié effect, than a stripe. It's got reds, yellows, blues, and purples in it, but it reads as a lively pink. It's stretchy, and not too short. I think I'm in love with it. I love it with brown - boots and sweater... I could... More »

Continue reading From My Closet - November 25th, 2011.

Urban Kid Closet - November 22nd, 2011

By Tracey on November 22, 2011 1:30 PM | 7 Comments

She's kind of between sizes just now - size 3 is too short everywhere, but size 4 is drowning her at the moment. Today I belted this muumuu-esque t-shirt over her leggings, which literally pulled the whole thing together. This looks far better than when it was almost dress-like and wrong-looking. It reads more like, tunic. It's all swashbuckler swank. I'm calling it that. It will sweep the nation tres soon. Just. Watch. Every store has it's own type and cut when it comes to leggings, but for my money, Mexx makes the best ones, especially for this tiny kid.... More »

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Method to my (reno) madness

By Christine on December 5, 2011 9:54 AM | 322 Comments

Earlier this month I posted about our powder room reno.I'm very happy to tell you that it's completed. Well...except for the trim that still needs to be painted. Don't hold your breath for that...I knew going into this that my drive to completely complete it would deplete. It did.I love it. I thought going black was a little risky but it's a small room so what the heck...it's just paint, right?At one point I thought I better stick with a safe white wall and black floor. But I had a vision. I knew what I wanted it to look like... More »

House Party!

By Amanda on November 19, 2011 3:57 PM | 9 Comments

Tupperware. Norwex. Mary Kay. Pampered Chef. Epicure. Partylite. Arbonne. Avon. These are all products that carry out business through a little machine known as the Home Party: you get invited to one, you go and drink some bad coffee, you listen to a spiel, you feel guilted into buying something and then you leave having spent $50 on something you didn't even really want to. I have gone to a lot of these parties, mostly in the name of supporting friends who are starting their own businesses. There are some items from most of the above brand-names that I do actually enjoy... More »

Urban Kid Closet - November 18th, 2011

By Tracey on November 18, 2011 10:30 AM | 4 Comments

Sale shopping is my favourite. Especially for kid clothes, because c'mon - at the rate they grow, they require almost an entirely new wardrobe every six months. These kids have no cousins, so the hand-me-downs tend to be few. That's really okay... but ch-ching!! I peruse the sales sections of the places I like best, and try to buy ahead, to put away for later. Including this little top, which was art of the post-Halloween stuff... I don't think it's actually too Halloween-y! The bat is a sparkly pinkish-red... nothing orange or insanely festive about it. (And you know how... More »

Continue reading Urban Kid Closet - November 18th, 2011.

From My Closet - November 17th, 2011

By Tracey on November 17, 2011 1:30 PM | 5 Comments

Okay: Jeggings. I've been resisting for reasons I can't explain. Possibly because they were everywhere all the time, at the same time as babies wearing diapers with a denim motif on their butts, and I was all, Can't jeans just be jeans anymore? Oy. Anyway, I was wrong. I love them now. I was in the market for some inexpensive jeans, and stopped into Garage, who were having a sale, as luck would have it. Buy one pair of jeans, and get the second pair for 50% off. I needed regular blue jeans anyway, so I figured now was as... More »

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Urban Kid Closet - November 16th, 2011

By Tracey on November 16, 2011 11:30 AM | 6 Comments

So, I've had to do a bit of shopping in a hurry for these kids, since they've suddenly grown like bad weeds, and nothing fit. Enter Old Navy. I find their stuff can be hit or miss from season to season. (I'm not finding a whole lot for my son there at the moment.) But there's LOTS of cute stuff for girls these days! I loved the peacock t-shirt with charcoal image, laced with soft pinks and purple, and dotted with gold painted sequins - and that bit of plum-coloured tulle on the bird's head? Adorable. Sadly, there were no... More »

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From My Closet - November 9th, 2011

By Tracey on November 9, 2011 11:30 AM | 1 Comment

It's downright balmy outside today, especially for November. I've decided to break out this sweater, which I don't wear very often, and is a bit of an oldie, but still a goodie. It's got a wide bat-wing sleeve, which doesn't fit well under any of my coats (are you sad for me yet?) but she is a handsome dear, in her deep cocoa colour and cable knit ribbing. She has a deep v-neck. *waggles eyebrows* I usually wear a long sleeved shirt underneath it, but it's JUST that warm outside that I'm going short-sleeved today. Since there's so much neckline... More »

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From My Closet - November 8th, 2011

By Tracey on November 8, 2011 11:30 AM | 7 Comments

I was at a big Joe Fresh store the other day, and scooped up one of their new nail lacquers. I've been looking for such a shade for some time now... a change from my super-deep reds, which feel more wintery than this shade called "Storm." It's taupe-ish. It's grey-ish. It's purple-ish. It's perfect. It doesn't apply quite as wonderfully as better-quality polishes, (like Essie, for example) but the tone is excellent. I used a base coat, two coats of colour and a top coat, and it looks pretty good - I'll let you know how it wears. It's my... More »

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Wanted: More Colour!

By Tracey on November 8, 2011 10:00 AM | 10 Comments

So cleaned up a bunch of drawers and things yesterday, making mental notes about what my kids need to stay outfitted for the fall and winter. It's a huge list, yo. My kids are smallish, and I think I got some loooooong use out of a bunch items for the last, say, eighteen months, so suddenly, everything is too small, and no one has any pants or shoes. Or shirts. Or socks. (Oy, life is expensive.)I have not one, but TWO requests for my kids to be photographed for projects today, and the first request was to "stay away from... More »

Kid Style

By Tracey on November 7, 2011 1:30 PM | 16 Comments

Oliver is home today - not feeling well, he said. He rarely complains, so home we shall than remain.Since I can't really get out to do much, I'm taking the opportunity to tidy up some drawers - emptying them of the too-small items (which seems to be just about everything!) and pulling out the warmer stuff, figuring out what is still in good repair, and getting rid of the rest.Purging the house of stuff is among my favourite things ever. *swoons*Yesterday, I asked Martin to please hang some ledges we bought from Ikea several months ago... sometimes getting around to... More »

High End Dressing on a Budget

By Jennifer on November 5, 2011 5:41 PM | 1 Comment

High end designers lending their creativity to mass retailers is nothing new. I've bought great pieces by Isaac Mizrahi and Missoni at Target, and by Lanvin at H&M. Now Canadian retailer Reitmans is getting in on the action. Launching this week, Canadian fashion designer Marie Saint Pierre has partnered with Canada's major women's specialty retailer, resulting in an intriguing, and well-priced, designer collection.Arriving in stores on November 10, these ten distinctive dresses are perfect for the holidays. I love the concept that designer fashion will become accessible to a new audience, and I LOVE these dresses. Click on the thumbnails to see... More »

From My Closet - October 27th, 2011

By Tracey on October 27, 2011 10:40 AM | 7 Comments

Well, you are what you wear. *snickers* I picked up this t-shirt at Forever 21 the other day, and actually, I saw the back of it first... I thought if that shirt is in any way not horrible, then it's coming home with me. And then I saw the front. So, now it's mine. I'm getting ready to make pumpkin magic over the next 24 hours or so, but first I have to run a few errands and things. This outfit ought to do the trick! rock star t-shirt in grey - Forever 21, $18.90 black jeans - Gap, $65... More »

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Urban Kid Closet - October 25th, 2011

By Tracey on October 25, 2011 2:30 PM | 7 Comments

I bought this jacket from Old Navy a year ago, and it still fits this fall - yay for tiny kids who hardly grow at all! I love a hit of military whenever possible (it cuts the sweetness, like I've said before) and this one looks terrific over everything, from jeans to skirts. In my experience, Old Navy makes some affordable jackets that wear well, and machine wash well too, which is what you need for kids especially. I'm actually eyeing this jacket for the spring, but I'd like to see exactly what shade of pink it is, before deciding.... More »

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From My Closet - October 24th, 2011

By Tracey on October 24, 2011 4:30 PM | 3 Comments

Earlier today I was invited to a senior's residence to show the old kids how to rock Michael Jackson's face out of an orange orb. (Fun!) When meeting new people, it's always a good idea to wear something you like and feel good in, right? Well, I LOVE this little top I picked up at Forever 21 recently... gosh, they have some fun stuff in there! It's a simple cotton long-sleeve t-shirt in charcoal (one of my staples) with a gunmetal-coloured pattern running across the front. Totally casual, with a hint-o-sparkle. It's an EXCELLENT and wearable daytime idea for "sequins."... More »

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Get Active!

By Jennifer on October 25, 2011 7:20 PM | 180 Comments

So, we're two months into the new school year, Thanksgiving is behind us (and based on the amount of pumpkin cheesecake I ate I mean that quite literally), and a long cold winter lies ahead. It's an easy time to think about curling up by a fire or a television and hibernating for months. But have you noticed what happens to hibernating bears?...they come out in the springtime looking droopy, lazy, hairy, and definitely not bikini worthy. Don't be a bear...make it your priority to stay active throughout these dreary months so that you emerge a little less ursine.This is a... More »

From My Closet - October 20th, 2011

By Tracey on October 20, 2011 12:30 PM | 16 Comments

Just for drinks with some foxes. Since I'm not very tall, just about every single pair of jeans I own need turning under, or in this case, over. I like the exaggerated height on the cuff, which also helps showcase these wonderful spectator pumps. They have an eyelet detail, which makes them feel a bit retro, in a way I adore. I love them so hard... they might be my favourite pair of shoes. (And I bought them from the place the rhymes with Sinners.) Nothing I'm wearing here is new. Including the lovely greenish-brown clutch in the foreground, which... More »

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Tales from a non-Fashionista: Jay Manuel

By Racheal on October 19, 2011 10:34 AM | 1 Comment

As the presser says "ATTITUDE Jay Manuel is a hip woman's clothing line. Bringing a different perspective on all the classics and pushing the envelope forward. Only at Sears Canada." Here's the line, what do you think? ... More »

Tales from a non-Fashionista: Jeremy Laing

By Racheal on October 18, 2011 12:33 PM | 1 Comment

From stunning to disaster, you never know what Fashion Week will bring. Here's a taste of what Alexander McQueen's former apprentice and Toronto resident Jeremy Laing has for Spring 2012. ... More »

Diary of a non-Fashionista at Fashion Week

By Racheal on October 18, 2011 12:08 AM | 5 Comments

Ok, so I'm running late. I haven't had a chance to change out of my school pick-up clothes, dinner has just spilled on my sleeve and I'm starting to panic. I'd already had a media shoot earlier that day, where I'd been wearing a very cute, but not really functional LBD. I dab on some blush, throw on a blazer, grab my gear and go. Immediately, I know I've made the wrong choice. I'm surrounded by spectacular fashionistas; I mean everyone is dressed to the hilt. Tonnes of orange, the colour of the moment, and accessories and heels for days. ... More »

From My Closet - October 12th, 2011

By Tracey on October 13, 2011 4:00 PM | 11 Comments

I do love a hit of leopard... though I will say, that on myself, I often prefer this pattern in the grey tones. It depends on the garment really, but he camel-coloured variety can sometimes give a lady a coo-coo ca-choo Mrs. Robinson vibe - not that that's a bad thing - but which might not be what one intends at the grocery store. *Ahem* The bag is brown glen check with a faint pink in the plaid, which was a gift from my sister a few years ago, and I love it for it's generous size (which makes it... More »

Continue reading From My Closet - October 12th, 2011.

Get F-listed in support of Dress for Success

By Sonya on October 12, 2011 11:30 AM

I recently met a woman, let's call her Jess, who is a single mom just fresh out of a divorce. Something about her hit me really hard. A mom, who stayed home and did everything for her family. Well, you know what happens next, her husband took off. Jess was then left to fend for herself so to speak. I looked at her with shock and awe. She now has to reinstate herself into the workforce after being out for 15 years. She was, what society considered in a middle-income family and living a comfortable life. No designer threads and... More »

The Nose Knows

By Jennifer on September 30, 2011 11:18 PM | 4 Comments

The first wood fire of the season...freshly mowed grass...banana bread fresh from the oven...tequila...Scents can be such powerful triggers of nostalgia and memories, and all of these smells can take me right back to a certain time in my life simply by closing my eyes and breathing deeply.If, like me, you grew up in the 80s, chances are that one of the most powerful scents from your teen years is The Body Shop's White Musk. Introduced in 1981, it became so popular that at one point in that decade, 2.5 White Musk fragrances were being sold every minute. I worked part-time... More »

From My Closet - September 27th, 2011

By Tracey on September 27, 2011 10:30 AM | 9 Comments

Yes, I read the date on the calendar, and I already told you: I don't care about the post-Labour Day rules. It's going to be near 25 degrees celcius outside today, and that still feels like summer to me. Besides, don't I just look like an angel? (Me. An angel. That's funny.) white bat-sleeve sweater - Boutique Fly, $45 white jeans - Only Jeans leopard sequin Converse All Stars - Winners sunglasses - Old Navy... More »

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Smashbox Invites You to a Film Fest Event!

By Sonya on September 12, 2011 2:53 PM

Davis Factor, is a well-known fashion photographer and SVP of Global Creative for Smashbox. He is also famous for his great-grandfather, Max Factor, who coined the term "make-up". Here in Toronto, we had the chance to chat about the history of Smashbox at an exclusive blogger's media event to find out more.Davis Foster, SVP of Global Creative and Lori Taylor, Pro Lead Artist from Smasbox at the Sephora, Toronto. Sept.11. Photographer: Kyriakos for Smashbox. Factor began as a photographer and while on a shoot in Paris he realized that his home base in L.A. needed an all-encompassing photo studio equipped... More »

From My Closet - September 9th, 2011

By Tracey on September 9, 2011 11:00 AM | 3 Comments

I actually wore this blouse yesterday since I was hosting my back-to-school brunch for my mummy-friends in my neighbourhood. A sheer blouse over jeans says, "I'm dressy, I'm casual, and oh yes that is my bra... what of it?" all at the same time. I wore it with some sparkly ballet flats and twinkly denim-coloured bead bracelets. Three-quarter length sleeves sometimes make me feel ridiculous, but with the gathered cuffs and the flounce at the hemline, it's girly without being overly frilly - that suits me just fine. No necklace, since the wide collar has an off-centred bow. I think... More »

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Behind the Scenes: The Swag Lounge at TIFF

By Sonya on September 7, 2011 8:58 PM | 1 Comment

Interview with Diane Lai, business owner and mother of 2UrbanMoms: How do you do it? (Juggling family life with career)Diane Lai: I never feel like I do it well. There is always a certain amount of guilt no matter what I do and there is no sleep. I really don't get tons of sleep and there always seems to never be enough hours in the day. The one rule I have is to be home for dinner bath and bed with my kids. I also make a conscious effort to make weekend family time and do not do any work... More »

Urban Kid Closet - August 31st, 2011

By Tracey on August 31, 2011 12:30 PM | 7 Comments

Now that the summer swelter is truly behind us, Madame can wear this adorable blouse I picked up in the late spring. Besides the fact that she's grown a bit and it just fits her better, with temps in the low-twenties these days, it doesn't look like she'd be roasting inside it. She'll be wearing long into the fall. Plus, white skinny jeans? C'mon now. Ava Scarlett wears: black tunic with white embroidery - Old Navy, $12 white skinny jeans - Gap, $16... More »

Continue reading Urban Kid Closet - August 31st, 2011.

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stroller makeover

By Alanna on June 3, 2013 8:17 PM | No Comments

BEFORE AFTERI've got three days left of work before my maternity leave begins and a list of little projects to get working on before #2 arrives - I am totally in nesting mode. That said, Liz from Stroller Spa Toronto couldn't have contacted me at a better time.Her stroller detailing business takes scuzzy strollers and car seats and makes them look new again. And... More »

Mom Entrepreneur: MommiesFirst

By Leslie on November 12, 2012 4:41 PM

A new Canadian business founded by a mom and for moms recently launched. MommiesFirst aims to make life for moms a little bit easier and a lot less stressful by sending monthly care packages to new and expectant moms filled with 4-5 "Must Have" products. We have tasked a MommiesFirst Council - comprised of moms, dads and baby experts - to help us identify the very best brands to fill our boxes. All of our care packages are stage specific - so they are timed to where a mom is in her pregnancy or the age of her baby, ensuring... More »

Sweet Dreams & Flying Machines

By Leslie on October 23, 2012 6:02 PM | 1 Comment

Sweet Dreams & Flying Machines was founded during a 3am feeding, while battling baby brain, when a stroke of inspiration hit. An image of the safest, snuggliest and most functional baby sleepwear started to form.Sleep Sacs and Swaddles with personality to rally against the sea ofpastels and whites. What you're looking at now is the result of thatinspiration, and the most powerful tool there is: a mother's love.There are certain things that mums just know. They know how to kiss away a scraped knee, how to soothe after a bad dream and how to create the perfect milk to cereal ratio. They... More »

Continue reading Sweet Dreams & Flying Machines.

Mom Entrepreneur: Picasso Hair Feathers

By Carol on November 27, 2011 10:20 PM

House Party!

By Amanda on November 19, 2011 3:57 PM | 9 Comments

Dad Entrepreneur: FUNZIES

By Carol on June 22, 2011 9:14 AM | 2 Comments

Well I am not an urban mom, but I am married to one! 2 years ago I was working at the Babytime show for my day job at a magazine publisher and I remember looking around at all the kid's clothing that was available and thinking to myself "everything is so cutesie!". Being a father of 2 little kids, I wanted to find them something to wear that was a little more in tune with the things that I like - Popular culture, social media, urban living etc. So my friend and I came with the idea to create one... More »

Mom Entrepreneur: Tail Wags Helmet Covers

By Carol on May 30, 2011 5:38 PM | 2 Comments

Building My Business One Helmet Cover at a Time!I always knew if I was going to return to the work force after being a stay-at-home mom for 15 years, it was going to have to be in a job that provided me with the flexibility to continue juggling the needs of my two special needs sons. I was also determined to find a job, which provided an outlet for my creative side. As well, I wanted to ensure I worked for an employer who gave me freedom to decide my own hours and wouldn't constantly watch over my shoulder because... More »

Mom Entrepreneur: Sophia Grace

By Carol on May 24, 2011 6:33 PM

My story began December 2010, wanting to give my sisters and friends something more original and thoughtful for Christmas I set out to make them something unique. Something that would represent what mattered to us and that they would be able to keep for years. I found my inspiration in what I love the most, spending time laughing with friends and family, along with a great meal. After handcrafting an apron for myself in vintage and retro patterns I soon discovered that everyone wanted one for themselves. They loved the colorful designs and putting one on just feels sassy and... More »

CLOSED: Mom-Shell Giveaway!

By Kath on September 3, 2009 5:33 PM | 30 Comments

THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED.Last month we featured the beautiful Mom-Shell collection in the Marketplace, and now we're thrilled to be able to bring you an urbanmoms.ca exclusive giveaway: you could win a Mom-Shell of your very own!this style is the Gwenyth, from offspring 2009 collection:Mom-Shells were conceived by a mom who cares about how she looks, and wanted to be able to nurse comfortably in the presence of others. To enter, please add a comment below with your best 'nursing in public' story. It could be funny, heartwarming, embarrassing...you decide!Remember, only urbanmoms.ca members are eligible to win, so sign in before... More »

Foundation Studio

By Kath on October 13, 2009 11:32 PM

It's our pleasure at the urbanmoms.ca Marketplace this week to bring you Ariane's story:Foundation Studio is a Marketing & Promotions company that focuses on The Start-up Business. As an Entrepreneur myself, I know how hard it is to stay on track of your marketing efforts; there are just too many corners begging to be cut! Tasks just waiting to be shifted to tomorrow's to-do list. Unfortunately, marketing always seems to be the one shifted!! I started Foundation Studio because I love hearing about someone's lifestyle change towards Entrepreneurship - I get so excited when I find out a friend has... More »

The McMoms are on the Case

By Jen on October 13, 2009 4:05 PM | 2 Comments

Whenever I surprise my daughter with a mother-daughter lunch and tell her she can pick the spot she always, without fail, picks McDonald's. As the world leader in fast food there is an overwhelming amount of information swirling around about them and it is virtually impossible to get to the bottom of what is fact and what is fiction. I am excited as a mom to say that we have now taken a giant leap forward thanks to five Canadian McMoms!Last year I had the pleasure of covering the launch of the McDonald's Moms' Quality Correspondents program. Five real moms... More »

Mom-Shell

By Kath on October 6, 2009 9:07 PM

Mom-Shell was conceived 2 years ago when my baby refused to take a bottle, and I refused to wear the bib and apron-like options available to new mothers. Each MOM-SHELL is designed for mothers who care about the way they look, and who want to nurse comfortably in the company of others. MOM-SHELLs will flatter, fit and function throughout pregnancy and beyond....allowing for "chic and discreet" nursing. They are the ultimate "wear everywhere" layer- work, rest or play. MOM-SHELLs are also designed for mothers who care about the earth. We are committed to using fabrics made of certified organic fibres... More »

Coco Baby Boutique

By Kath on September 29, 2009 11:59 PM | 1 Comment

Coco Baby Boutique offers mod and trendy products for the swankiest of tots. Coco Baby Boutique is committed to finding products for their customers that are new, exciting, and most of all functional! All of the brands and products that they carry have been tested by their mommy testing group or by themselves personally before they decide to carry a specific item. This is a fabulous way to ensure that they are selling products that not only they stand behind but other moms stand behind these products as well. Coco Baby Boutique is owned by Nicole Wilson and Heather York,... More »

Holly Clegg Cookbooks

By Kath on September 21, 2009 6:09 PM

Holly CleggHolly Clegg, author of the best selling trim&TERRIFIC® cookbook series including a diabetic cookbook with the ADA and Eating Well Through Cancer, has sold almost 1 million copies. Holly has promoted her healthy lifestyle recipes on national shows including Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, and The 700 Club. She understands the demands of the busy person and with her user friendly, pantry friendly, and time friendly cookbooks, she has garnered a national reputation as the healthy "Queen of Quick!" Holly Clegg's trim&TERRIFIC® Freezer Friendly MealsFor the person on the go who doesn't have time to cook or struggles... More »

True Cuddles

By Kath on September 15, 2009 6:01 PM | 1 Comment

As moms, Julie and Sarah loved searching for products that helped them celebrate motherhood, outfit and nurture their little ones and of course, keep them safe. They waded through the clutter of mainstream baby products and were able to find so many uncovered gems. They began brainstorming how they could share these gems with other moms, and looked for a way to bring together aspects from there personal and work life that they genuinely enjoyed the most and...True Cuddles came to life. But they always knew, they wanted to do more than to just sell product! Julie and Sarah have... More »

Marketplace Giveaway: WIN a Squishy Fish Onesie!

By Kath on September 8, 2009 11:50 PM | 58 Comments

Last week we featured the sweet clothing line Squishy Fish, and this week we're thrilled to bring you a Squishy Fish Giveaway! The Squishy Fish line consists of bright, playful images printed onto the softest organic cotton onesies and t-shirts available. Each shirt is a tribute to childhood and all of the little moments that parents treasure most. Whimsical and sweet, Squishy Fish designs are sure to put smiles on child and adult faces alike.You could win a Squishy Fish onesie of your choice! All you have to do is click over to the Squishy Fish website, select your favourite... More »

Squishy Fish

By Kath on September 1, 2009 4:23 PM

Squishy Fish is the brainchild of owner and founder Mel Bednar. After the birth of her daughter in 2006, she found that much of the organic cotton baby clothing on the market was plain and uninspiring. Knowing that organic cotton was better for her daughter's sensitive skin and for the planet, Mel began her mission to create a clothing line that is both natural and fun. The Squishy Fish line consists of bright, playful images printed onto the softest organic cotton onesies and t-shirts available. Each shirt is a tribute to childhood and all of the little moments that parents... More »

TinyWiggles

By Kath on August 18, 2009 7:39 PM | 1 Comment

TinyWiggles Ltd is an online specialty shop started March 1, 2009 by a mother and daughter team, featuring fresh innovative baby and toddler products. All our products are handmade in Canada. TinyWiggles strives to make the lives of parents and their little ones a little simpler by offering practical products for everyday living. The birth of my son was a very difficult delivery, and I was very happy to have my mother and husband by my side. My son arrived 3 weeks early and a healthy baby, however a bit of a fussy baby which brought many challenges to a first time mom. My... More »

Nu-world Botanicals

By Kath on August 11, 2009 10:33 PM

Aromatherapy Personals - Instant Aromatherapy-To-Go! From NUWORLD Botanicals, founded by Canadian Natalie Cascella.Eco-chic, compact vials with rollerballs that combine the power of acupressure, aromatherapy and anti-oxidant vitamins A, B, C and E to help balance, harmonize and promote the health of mind, body and skin. Eleven targeted blends, including Anxiety Relief, Energy Boost, Sweet Dreams, Meditation and Jet Lag Relief, work within seconds to help restore balance to mind, body and skin.Made from 100% naturally active plant seed oils, with over 90% Certified Organic ingredients, these ready made blends offer one of the quickest, easiest, and safest ways to enjoy... More »

Little Stars Bedtime Cards

By Kath on August 5, 2009 3:51 AM | 1 Comment

Every parent knows how important it is to send their child to bed feeling secure, comforted, and loved. But most parents are familiar with the feeling of "running out of steam" at the end of day, especially when their child is pleading for "one more story!"Little Stars Bedtime Cards offer a gentle, one-on-one bedtime ritual that both parents and children enjoy. The award-winning cards are simple and interactive, and require no special knowledge or tools to use -- just a desire to spend a few meaningful minutes together at bedtime. Intended for use with children 3-6 years of age, the cards... More »

Style My Child

By Kath on July 28, 2009 6:11 PM

Style My Child is the one-of-a-kind online design studio, that turns your ordinary photos into extraordinary pieces of art!My husband Todd is a graphic designer and artist, and I am a stay-at-home mom who loves taking pictures of my kids! I mean, what mom doesn't!? For our daughter, Noelle's second birthday, I sat her down and took a whole bunch of pictures of her, and when I loaded them onto my computer, decided that they needed something more, something to make them really special! I asked my husband if he would take Noelle's picture and make it look like something... More »

Wish Bedding

By Kath on July 14, 2009 3:54 PM | 1 Comment

My name is Natalie Kaplan and my partner is Allison Meshwork. We are two moms who have just launched Wish Bedding, an e-boutique dedicated to children's bedding.As you click through the pages of our website, you will see the combined efforts of two very devoted stay-at-home moms with a dream. We're Natalie and Alli - the next door neighbours who founded Wish Bedding, Dreamy Finds for Kids!When it was time for Natalie's daughter to move into her big girl bed, she wanted to get good quality, affordable, washable, AND inspirational linens that would excite her little girl. Natalie wanted the... More »

Sweet Peanut

By Kath on June 24, 2009 3:33 AM

Sweet Peanut started with a very stylish advertising and marketing executive. New York's dailycandy.com was her bible and shopbop.com was her homepage. Her Manolos were on altars, her Sevens on padded hangers and she brought C&C California to her very stylish friends before it was one of Oprah's favorite things. And then one day, the inevitable happened. This hip girl became a hip mama and found that dressing her sweet baby boy became a problem of Trini and Susannah proportions. Her stylish side shunned the teddy bears and balloons, her yoga mama side couldn't face unnatural fabrics or "dryclean only"... More »

uba BABY

By Kath on June 16, 2009 9:09 PM | 1 Comment

My name is Janet Mogus and I'm the founder of uba BABY (ooh-bah BABY), an eco-friendly on-line baby and mama-to-be boutique. As a mother to 5 wonderful children under the age of 12, I have to say I've had my share of running noses, spilled milks, invisible boo boo's requiring immediate band-aid application and sleepless nights. Perhaps one of the greatest challenges I've encountered was finding all natural and safe products for my wee ones. Shortly after the birth of my fifth child, I set forth on my mom entrepreneur adventure and opened up uba BABY. In between my son's... More »

Momzelle

By Kath on June 9, 2009 8:45 PM

Or How I Became a Mom Entrepreneurby Christine Poirier, TorontoBefore becoming pregnant, I was far from thinking about breastfeeding or about becoming a mom entrepreneur. I was busy doing research for my PhD in French literature at McGill University, thinking academia would be my career, and I had no idea about just how much having a baby would change my life.I was lucky. The delivery was painful, but beautiful, and breastfeeding went well right from the start. I have always been a crafty person, and since the nursing tops I had been given were sagging on me, it made sense... More »

My Pacifier

By Kath on June 2, 2009 11:18 PM

Celebrities such as Matthew McConaughey, Heidi Klum, Trista Sutter and Julianna Margulies have fitted their babies with Mypacifier™ and baby Dannielynn Birkhead (Anna Nicole Smith's daughter) has been seen sporting the "My Dad Rocks" pacifier from our U.S. sole distributor Carol and Kim Pedersen at Mypacifier.com. High quality personalized pacifiers have been introduced in the Canadian market and are available online at www.mypacifier.ca.This "mommy-invented" product was created by Pia Callesen from Denmark in April 2004 to avoid serious germ spreading at day cares as well as mixing between toddlers. Currently available in 9 countries, this product is becoming a MUST... More »

Red Thread Design

By Kath on May 26, 2009 9:16 PM

Red Thread Design is a Toronto studio that specializes in the design and production of children's clothing using Asian and retro-inspired fabrics. Designed by Devorah Miller, mom of three gorgeous girls, the line combines fabulous prints with simple, highly functional designs. Everything is ethically made in Toronto of premium cotton and bamboo fabrics. Red Thread is best known for its one-size "Caterpillar Dress," designed to fit girls from about 12 months to about 4 years - they gradually transition from a dress to a top and look great at every stage. They layer beautifully so they can be worn all year... More »

Thought Spots

By Kath on May 19, 2009 11:43 PM | 2 Comments

It's our pleasure to bring you Lynn's story this week:I am thrilled to announce that there is a another new "Mom Entrepreneur" in Canada...and despite being a tad fatigued, I am really excited about the possibilities and genuinely hope this product will help many moms with all their good intentions! I have just launched a new product line of life tools to support women...they're called Thought Spots and they are tools that help motivate, inspire, teach, praise...and they can be shared! Women, especially moms, can use them for themselves, for their kids, husbands, friends. It's a totally new concept...simple and... More »

Green School

By Kath on May 13, 2009 4:43 AM | 3 Comments

Making our planet greener one school at a time...The concept for the green school™ tote came from both a need and desire for a practical, eco-friendly tool for students to carry money from home to school. My children enjoy many great school initiatives such as pizza days, milk program, scholastic books, field trips, snack days, hot lunches and more. Single use plastic bags and envelopes are the method of choice for many of us when sending money to school, but both have a negative impact on our environment. My vision was to create a functional, reusable product that would help... More »

Raising Rascals

By Kath on May 6, 2009 3:26 AM

Welcome to Raising Rascals- Children's Online Store based out of Ancaster, Ontario!! Raising Rascals specializes in trendy, unique and practical finds for Babies, Children, Moms and Dads. Raising Rascal products cannot be found in your local stores. Every item we sell has been carefully researched and selected for its originality, keeping in mind the needs and wants of moms and dads of young children. We have searched tirelessly finding products from all over the world, and we are proud to carry some great products designed right here in Canada.Our goal is to be a one stop shop for your precious... More »

Raspberry Kids

By Kath on April 29, 2009 3:11 AM

This week in the Marketplace we're thrilled to bring you Sue's story:After close to 20 years in the corporate world, I have given up the power suits, conference calls and endless meetings and have traded it all in for a home office where my "colleagues" are under 4 years of age. My two children are my product testers and fashion models and Beli the lab is my receptionist and greeter. My husband is my technical consultant, graphic designer and spreadsheet guru.Based in Vancouver, BC Canada, Raspberry Kids has a worldwide supply chain and market and has evolved as a solution... More »

Finest Expressions

By Kath on April 22, 2009 12:14 AM

This week in Marketplace, we bring you Zakia's story:A month after my son was born, my sister and I opened our online store called Finest Expressions - Designer Gifts & Gift Baskets. It seemed like I had given birth to one baby but ended up with twins! We wanted to design gifts that were not only beautiful to look at but were practical for the recipients. It was then that we set out to channel our creativity through designing unique baby and wedding gifts for the Canadian market. We started by offering beautiful and trendy gifts such as our baby diaper... More »

DreamGYM

By Kath on April 15, 2009 5:33 AM | 2 Comments

Marina's first son never actually settled in daycare. It was really hard for her to leave him crying there every morning. During the months following the birth of her second son, Marina was getting anxious, knowing that in just less than a year she would have to go back to work, potentially having to leave two crying boys in daycare. During that difficult time Marina's husband and friends created a small indoor jungle gym in their basement to keep the children active. Kids loved it. That is how DreamGYM™ was born.DreamGYM Inc. is the first company in Canada to produce... More »

Babytags

By Kath on April 8, 2009 5:19 AM

This week, we at the Marketplace are pleased to bring you Desiree's story:My husband was a professional hockey player for 15 years in Europe so we have been very blessed to see and live in some of the most amazing places. At the end of last season in France we decided it was time to retire and I started to panic! We have three beautiful children aged 5 3 & 1 and although life is insanely busy I wouldn't trade it for the world. I have been a stay at home mom since my first was born 5 years ago... More »

PerryWinkles Kids

By Kath on March 31, 2009 8:56 PM

Our mission here at the Marketplace is to bring you the stories of businesses created and run by Canadian moms. This week we bring you Maria's story:My name is Maria Montero and I am the owner of PerryWinkles Kids, a designer and manufacturer of fine children's clothing, specializing in stylish smocked dresses for little girls.We are a mother-daughter team, with myself and my mother the co-owners of this business. I am the mom of two beautiful girls who are the inspiration for many of our designs. We created PerryWinkles when we found a need in today's market for dressier, yet... More »

Ladybugs and Lullabies

By Kath on March 25, 2009 1:20 AM

Ladybugs and Lullabies no slip baby and toddler hair bows and clips has made its debut in the exclusive world of celebrity gift bags. Quickly following their summer 2008 website launch, the Canadian manufacturer of stylish hair clips and accessories was chosen by luxury gift bag designer Jewels and Pinstripes to be featured in their popular Summer 2008 Celebrity Baby Bags.Ladybugs and Lullabies, founded by Allyson Grabish in April 2007, has chosen to feature their popular line of infant snap clips in the "New Girls in Tinseltown" baby gift bags created by Jewels and Pinstripes. The highly sought after gift... More »

So Inviting...

By Kath on March 18, 2009 1:40 AM

So Inviting... is THE place to find unique birth announcements, invitations, thank you cards and any other announcement you need!I have created a small sampling of "stock" designs, but prefer to work with each individual client to create something that is uniquely theirs, at no additional charge! The idea for So Inviting... was hatched one day over pottery painting! I was showing a friend the invitations and thank you cards that I made for my son's Baptism. She commented that they were really nice and that I should consider selling them to other moms. Not long after, another friend approached me... More »

Glow Marketing

By Kath on March 11, 2009 3:39 AM

Glow Marketing is the leading marketing consultancy in Western Canada specializing in marketing to Moms. It was started by Sharole Lawrence after she decided it was time to leave the agency life and make time for her family. The light bulb went on when Sharole was on her second maternity leave and realized that Moms were meeting and connecting and talking about products related to their kids. It was then that Sharole decided she wanted to focus on helping good companies plug in to the world of Moms. Sharole also contributes regularly to Mompreneur Magazine and features "marketing to Mom"... More »

Great Siblings: A Sibling Preparation Film for Preschoolers

By Kath on March 4, 2009 3:10 PM

Expecting another bundle of joy is exciting for parents, but bringing home a new baby may be difficult and upsetting for young children. To help ease the transition from only child to big brother or sister, a Canadian mom has created Great Siblings: A Sibling Preparation Film for Preschoolers. Anna Huk, the creator of Great Siblings and owner of One Time Around Productions, is the mother of three young children. She knows all too well the difficulty parents face when adding another child to the family. "I found it challenging to find books or films that showed real babies and... More »

Bugalug Giveaway!

By Kath on February 19, 2009 6:13 AM | 54 Comments

Last week in The Marketplace we brought you the story of Bugalug.This week we're thrilled to be able to offer you a Bugalug Giveaway†! The folks over at Bugalug sent us a lovely headband and a pack of 3 pony loops to give to one lucky member - who knows, it might be you!To be entered to win, tell us why you would like to win the Bugalug prize pack in the comments section below. One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible comments. †See full Contest Rules and Regulations for details.... More »

The Little Stamp Company

By Kath on February 23, 2009 6:02 AM

Here in The Marketplace, we make it our mission to bring you stories of moms and their businesses. Are you a Canadian Mom who owns or runs her own business? Do you know someone who is? Submit a story for consideration in The Marketplace by emailing marketplace@urbanmoms.ca.This week, Leeann's story:What's the first word children want to print? Their Name! The 'Signature' stamp from The Little Stamp Company was originally developed when my daughter was 3 years old. She was keen to learn how to spell and print her name. It repeatedly took a long time to 'dot' her name, Mackenzie,... More »

The Official Mom Media!

By Jen on June 3, 2008 10:34 AM | 6 Comments

I know that as a mom I have a hard time balancing my desire to "treat" my kids to a meal at McDonald's with the bit of guilt I have about what exactly they are consuming. There are so many mixed messages! Wouldn't you like to have the opportunity to get the inside scoop or have the chance to see it for yourself? Well, McDonald's is launching a really cool new initiative. Not only do I think this is totally necessary but it is also a really smart move on their part. They have developed a program called the... More »

McDonald's Moms' Quality Program - Selecting the Moms

By Jen on July 22, 2008 2:44 PM | 3 Comments

As most of you know, urbanmoms.ca is McDonald's official Mom Media for their innovative Moms' Quality Correspondents program in Canada. As a mom and a marketer I LOVE this idea and it is my job to report on the latest news throughout the whole process - from selecting the moms, to the behind the scenes tours, to reporting on the tough questions posed to the McDonald's team. I recently attended the first meeting at McDonald's head office in Toronto to sit in on a meeting with the McDonald's team where they were sifting through the hundreds of mom applicants from... More »

The Folks Behind the Golden Arches

By Jen on December 11, 2008 10:13 AM | 2 Comments

One of the most interesting things about my recent trip to Chicago and McDonald's headquarters was getting a chance to meet the people behind the scenes. You may not know this but my very first job was at McD's and I still value my experience there. I learned about hard work, process, team work and discipline. Just like those days at the front lines the people I met amazed me with their dedication and commitment to the McDonald's brand, its legacy and vision for the future. So, I wanted to introduce you to a few of the people I met.... More »

Featured Mom Business: Baby Boomba

By Jen on January 8, 2008 1:28 PM

This week, urbanmoms.ca brings you Marina's story: Baby Boomba, a Canadian owned company, retails fashionable Baby Slings, Pouches, Wraps and Mei Tai's for today's Modern Parent. As with every Mom running her business, I was inspired by my son. It all started with a quick little trip to the local grocery store. I know this may sound ridiculous, but this was my actual first time out with my then 6 month old baby. He wasn't the easiest going baby so I was lucky enough to always have someone with me on outings. I wasn't in the mood to wrestle with... More »

Featured Mom Business: Dinner By You

By Jen on January 29, 2008 5:30 PM

About three years ago my best friend of 30 years and I decided to make a leap of faith and open a business to help busy moms like ourselves provide tasty and nutritious meals to our families. We were finding it harder and harder find the time to plan, shop, prepare and cook a home cooked meal every night. It was easy to fall into the rut of over processed frozen lasagnas and take out. We had heard rumblings of a type of business in the United States where families are able to prepare fresh meals to take home... More »

Featured Mom Business: Magnique - and a Contest!

By Jen on February 5, 2008 11:12 PM

We're thrilled this week to bring you another great Mom Business profile, and an excellent contest offer! Read Tova's story, and if you send us pictures of your clutter, you could win an 18" X 24" Magnique board (valued at $275). See details in Contests & Promotions. Magnique Recognizing a void in the market for elegant ways to utilize vertical space, we have created leather and suede magnetic boards and accessories for your home and office. Our framed magnetic boards are completely customizable and provide an original look for the style-conscious person who wants to organize their space. To meet... More »

Featured Mom Business: Sweet Dreams - Nursery Wall Art & Decor

By Jen on February 20, 2008 12:22 AM | 1 Comment

The urbanmoms.ca Marketplace features a different mom-based business each week. This week, we're pleased to bring you Julie's story: Sweet Dreams personalized wall art and decor is currently an online store. Sweet Dreams sells personalized canvas art, canvas board letters and fun whimsical wall art. The newest addition to my store is hand painted drawer knobs. What makes my site different is that my work is all original OOAK hand painted with no reproductions. Most of my clients have asked for custom work to match the décor of their room of choice. I work from my home in Mississauga, Ontario,... More »

Featured Mom Business: Bright Bumms

By Jen on February 26, 2008 3:38 PM

Do you know of a great Canadian mom-based business that should be featured on the urbanmoms.ca Marketplace? If so, send an email with a 100-200 word description of the business, along with a few photos, to kath@urbanmoms.ca. We're always looking for great stories to feature! A Bright Bumms Change Pad is a waterproof, machine washable and dryable diaper change pad. These Canadian hand made change pads have two unique sides. The quilted side is created from a variety of fun cotton fabrics and the water proof side is made from ProCare fabric. ProCare is a durable, waterproof, washable fabric, which... More »

Z'Fina Slings Giveaway!

By Jen on November 18, 2008 4:10 PM | 2 Comments

Last week's Featured Mom Business, Z'Fina Slings has offered a free sling as a prize to one lucky urbanmoms.ca member! The lucky winner will receive a beautiful Z'Fina sling from the Everyday Chic Collection, in the style Snapdragon and the colour currant red. If you'd like to win this amazing prize, simply send us an email at marketplace@urbanmoms.ca with "Sling Contest" in the tile line. In the body of the email, please ensure you include your full name. Winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entries.... More »

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HUGGIES® Snug & Dry Diapers

By Kath on November 6, 2012 5:04 PM | 8 Comments

Life with a little one around is never boring. Parents of babies and toddlers need to be prepared for anything - and Mom and Dad both feel better with the peace of mind that comes with knowing baby's diaper isn't going to leak. Only Huggies® Diapers have Leak Lock® for up to 12 hours of protection. So, our Go2Girlz product testing panel asked both the moms and the dads to put Huggies® Snug & Dry Diapers to their everyday test - from extra-long naps and afternoon walks in the baby carrier. After rigorous on-the-job testing, did the diapers keep baby... More »

LISTERINE® SMART RINSE®

By Kath on August 20, 2012 9:00 AM | 104 Comments

According to a recent Angus Reid poll on behalf of the makers of LISTERINE®, 86 per cent of parents are worried about protecting their kids from cavities. Despite parents' concerns tooth decay is on the rise in Canadian children, as 63 per cent of kids between the ages of 6 and 12 have had a cavity and 61 per cent of children with cavities have two or more. With these sobering facts in mind, Canadian parents can use all the tools we can get to protect our children's oral health.Enter LISTERINE® SMART RINSE® -- a rinse formulated specifically for kids... More »

Huggies Little Movers Diapers and Huggies Overnites Diapers

By Kath on July 30, 2012 6:35 PM | 7 Comments

Real life with little ones is fast-paced and can be challenging with all of the unexpected twists and turns. From long walks in the stroller to an afternoon of bouncing and sleepovers at the Grandparents' house...we've seen (and cleaned) it all, right?Keeping our little ones clean and dry is an everyday test parents go through while keeping up with baby - they're always scooting around and playing, so of course we want a diaper that can provide the ultimate protection from leaks both day and night.Huggies Little Movers Diapers and Huggies Overnites Diapers help keep baby giggling during the day... More »

Tide PODS: The Newest Innovation in Laundry Detergent

By Go2Girlz on March 26, 2012 3:16 AM | 56 Comments

Sponsored: Tide supplied free samples to UrbanMoms and the Go2Girlz panel for trial and reviewLaundry. It seems like a never-ending job. Add kids' clothing into the equation and you've got stain removal and dinginess to contend with as well. Trying to get your children's clothes clean and bright can turn into a job that takes ages: pre-treating stains and then soaking in brightener before you even turn on the washing machine! Which is why the Go2Girlz product testing panel at UrbanMoms was very intrigued when offered the chance to test new Tide Pods: detergent + stain remover + brightener in... More »

McCain^® Harvest Splendour™ Medleys

By Go2Girlz on March 12, 2012 7:30 AM | 38 Comments

Recently an ecard comic with the caption, "why do they want dinner every single night?" went viral on Facebook. Any mom can tell you why. We've all felt that same familiar despair as evening creeps inexorably towards us...what can I make for dinner? We wonder. It needs to be nutritious. It needs to be relatively quick and easy. It needs (and this is the most difficult one of all) to be eaten and liked by everyone. It seems to be an impossible task some days!Well, moms everywhere will heave a sigh of relief for the new McCain® Harvest Splendour™ Medleys.... More »

Kellogg's Rice Krispies Granola Bars & Contest!

By Go2Girlz on February 13, 2012 3:01 PM | 353 Comments

Rice Krispies Treats. Who didn't grow up loving them? Most of us have fond memories of standing at the stove helping mom make those iconic gooey squares, and they're still a snack-time treat for kids today. Low in fat and with the goodness of Rice Krispies, they're also a wise choice for nutrition-conscious moms.But as most moms know, getting a range of wholesome foods into our kids diet isn't always easy, so when we can choose a snack that ticks off more than one box on the nutrition checklist, we're all for it! Enter new Kellogg's Rice Krispies Granola Bars.... More »

Week 3: The Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! Last Week to Vote to Win!

By Carol on February 7, 2012 9:52 AM | 78 Comments

Welcome to the final week of the Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! At the end of this week we will crown the Top Citrus Chef. Will it be Cayla, or Carol? Read both Cayla and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures, and then let us know whose dish looked best!  During cold and flu season, eating right is essential! Florida Citrus is an easy and delicious way to help you get your 7-10 servings of fruit and vegetables per day. Comment below and share how you pamper yourself to help feel better when you're under the weather for your first second... More »

Which review do you like best?

Week 2: The Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! Vote Again To Win!

By Carol on January 31, 2012 9:44 AM | 97 Comments

Welcome to week two of the Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! Cayla and Carol continue their quest for the title of Top Citrus Chef. Citrus is good for the body, the soul and the taste buds. Vote and comment below for your second chance to WIN a $250 WaySpa gift certificate and some invigorating Body Shop products to help you feel better each day. Simply share your favourite ways to add citrus to your diet. For an additional ballot, share your own citrus recipe on the Florida Citrus Feel Better Recipe Swap. Don't forget to read both Cayla and Carol's... More »

Which review do you like best?

Week 1: The Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge! Vote & Win!

By Carol on January 23, 2012 3:29 AM | 157 Comments

The Florida Citrus Feel Better Challenge is now underway! Join us as two UrbanMoms writers battle for the title of Top Citrus Chef. Starting with an appetizer, then a main and ending with a dessert, our chefs will showcase three fabulous recipes featuring Florida Citrus products.Your job is simple: check in each week and read both Cayla and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures and then let us know whose dish looked best by voting each week for three weeks! We will be giving away one prize pack including a $250 WaySpa gift certificate and some invigorating Body Shop products... More »

Which review do you like best?

Baboo by Natrel

By Go2Girlz on January 10, 2012 10:54 AM | 21 Comments

"It's just a stage." How many times do new parents hear that phrase during their children's early years? But it's true: especially during their first two years, children go through a remarkable range of stages and transitions. One of the most important transitions children make is the one from breast milk or formula to regular milk. Up until now, there was no way for parents to help ease their children's transition over to regular milk, and many children and families struggled to make the switch. Thankfully, this important change can now be handled with ease. Introducing Baboo, a new category... More »

Oral-B Triumph with SmartGuide™

By Go2Girlz on December 5, 2011 8:28 AM | 334 Comments

"Look Ma, no cavities!" Most of us probably remember that refrain, and certainly the cavity-free dental checkup has been the goal of all children for generations. We all know the number one way to ensure a cavity-free checkup is good oral hygiene, and first and foremost: good brushing for at least two minutes. But things have come a long way since we were kids, and the tools of the trade have improved as well. Gone are the well-worn bristles of the manual toothbrush: if you want a top-notch smile, it's time to get a power toothbrush.But not all power brushes... More »

Chef Boyardee® Ravioli Florentine

By Go2Girlz on November 29, 2011 9:33 PM | 12 Comments

Let us set the scene: it's already past dinnertime, and you're just getting home. Everyone's hungry and cranky, and you need to get something on the table - FAST. Even the half-hour wait for take-out is going to be too long. So, what's a busy mom to do in these all-too-familiar circumstances? Why, make a delicious batch of Ravioli Florentine, of course!You're skeptical, and rightly so. Unless you managed to stop at your local Italian restaurant on your way home, there's no way to pull together something as yummy and family-pleasing as Ravioli Florentine when time is of the essence.... More »

Vim® PowerPro Naturals™

By Carol on November 16, 2011 8:15 PM | 42 Comments

Housework. It's the bane of many families' existence. Nobody likes to do it, but it has to be done nonetheless. Even if you have the most sophisticated of chore charts, using better cleaning products makes tough jobs a little easier to get done. And when those products are natural-based, it helps us moms rest a little easier, too.Enter new Vim® PowerPro Naturals™, highly effective cleaners that combine the tough cleaning power of Vim® with naturally derived ingredients. Vim® PowerPro Naturals™ Bathroom is made with 98% naturally derived ingredients including fermented citric acid.This cleaner is 2x tougher on soap scum versus... More »

naturSource® Nuts, Trail Mixes and Granola

By Carol on November 1, 2011 7:34 PM | 64 Comments

We all lead busy lives and we rush from work to errands to school activities to...well, you know. With all the demands in our busy modern lives, it's really difficult to stay on track with healthy eating. You need to grab a quick breakfast, or it's 3:30 p.m. and you can't think clearly because you haven't had lunch. What do you grab? It's not always easy to have fresh veggies or fruit on hand for those moments - especially if you're in the car chauffeuring your little ones off to a game or a dance lesson. That's why we were... More »

Magna Color & Color N' Glow!

By Carol on October 17, 2011 1:22 AM | 7 Comments

Do you find yourself always hunting for something new and different to get your child or one of their pals for their birthday or the holidays? Look no further! The recently launched Magna Color and Color N' Glow are the perfect solution. Both products are simple to use so a child can play happily on their own. These toys also inspire creativity while using cool new 3D Technology.The Magna Color:When we brought the Magna Color home we immediately sat down to give it a try. The assembly was pretty straightforward and, for the most part, my daughter was able to... More »

Product Review: Children's Advil^®100ml Dye Free Grape Suspension

By Carol on September 22, 2011 11:09 PM

Maybe it's a cranky baby cutting a tooth (or heck, even an older kid getting their twelve year-old molars), maybe a bad bump or bruise or the aches, pains and fever that are part of the territory with colds and flu. Either way, Mom's toolkit needs an effective pain and fever reliever. But as moms, we also know that having the right remedy is one thing - getting your little one to take it can be quite another. Thankfully, Children's Advil® is available in a range of pleasing flavours such as: grape, blue raspberry, fruit and berry. Also, Children's Advil®... More »

Li'l Ones® Yogurt

By Carol on August 26, 2011 9:46 PM | 36 Comments

We've all heard of DHA, and we know it's an important Omega-3 fatty acid that is critical for the optimal development and function of the brain, eyes and central nervous system during childhood. You probably also know that one of the most common sources of DHA is fish, which can be a difficult food to encourage fussy toddlers to eat. So DHA is important for brain, eye and nervous system development, but it's not exactly abundant in the foods toddlers love. What's a concerned mom to do? Well, look for foods that are fortified with DHA, naturally. Fortunately the folks... More »

Swanson Skillet Meals

By Carol on August 1, 2011 10:04 PM | 35 Comments

Modern families are always on the go. Sometimes getting everyone in one place long enough to plan, prepare and enjoy a family meal is simply not possible. On those days, having a quick, nutritious prepared meal can be a lifesaver. Enter Swanson Skillet Meals: with the option of preparing them in the microwave or on the stovetop, you've got a healthy, delicious meal in fifteen minutes max.We asked 100 members of our Go2Girlz product testing panel to try out Swanson Skillet Meals at home and let us know what they (and their families) thought. Their overwhelming response was that these... More »

Nexcare™ Brand Bandages from 3M

By Carol on June 29, 2011 5:04 PM | 43 Comments

All right, we might be safe to say it now: summer is on its way.What that means to most moms is that bikes, scooters, and sprinklers will come out, trees will be climbed, children will tumble and knees and elbows will be scraped and skinned. Since no two cuts are alike (and according to most children, each and every cut requires a bandage), it pays to be prepared. This summer, Nexcare™ would like you to Be Ready for Anything by ensuring you have the right bandage solutions in your family's first aid kit. To that end, Nexcare™ sent samples of... More »

MOTT'S Garden Cocktail

By Carol on June 3, 2011 8:10 PM | 51 Comments

Summer's just around the corner, and doesn't it just make you dream of fresh, crisp vegetables, straight from the garden and lovingly prepared for your family's table? Yes. But the reality is that moms are busy people, and busy people don't always have the time to prepare delicious fresh vegetable dishes every day. Which is why it's a good thing there's Mott's Garden Cocktail; an exciting blend of vegetables with smooth garden fresh taste and aroma and contains two servings of vegetables per 290 ml.Mott's Garden Cocktail, lets you and your family conveniently and deliciously enjoy the vegetables you need.... More »

Nesquik

By Carol on May 9, 2011 6:30 AM | 20 Comments

Picky eaters? We hear you. Nobody likes a struggle at the dinner table, but as moms we know there are certain foods our kids just need to eat, like 'em or not (vegetables, anyone?). So that's why it's great to know there's a product like new Nesquik Less Sugar Ready to Drink - with all the nutritional goodness of milk and no more sugar than a glass of unsweetened fruit juice. Kids (and grownups) love chocolate milk, so we were thrilled to have the opportunity for our Go2Girlz product testing panel to sample Nesquik Less Sugar Ready to Drink. Each of... More »

Burt's Bees® Baby Bee: Earth Friendly Natural Personal Care Products

By Carol on April 21, 2011 5:37 PM | 166 Comments

Burt's Bees Baby Bee Shampoo & WashWhen you have two kids under two, you need to really, really trust the products you use on their tender little bodies, because you just don't have time to shop around or make mistakes. That's why when I was asked to take on a product testing assignment for a line of baby skin-care products with my little miracles, I was a little skeptical at first. But when I found out the products were part of the Burt's Bees® Baby Bee line, any hesitation vanished. As a long-time Burt's Bees® fan myself, I knew I... More »

Burt's Bees®: Baby Bee Diaper Ointment

By Carol on April 18, 2011 7:04 PM | 68 Comments

As a mom of two daughters under two, you'd think diaper rash is something I'd be a little too familiar with, but truth be told, my older daughter never struggled much with irritations in her diaper area, and she's still blessed with a very healthy bottom. So that's why I felt like such a newbie when my new daughter developed a nasty red diaper rash. As a second-time Mom, I was sort of expecting everything to feel a bit "been there, done that", but my little one's sore bum really sent me reeling, and I'd never needed to use a... More »

So You Think You Can Squeeze?!? Week 3! Vote and Win!

January 31, 2011 3:20 PM | 118 Comments

Welcome to So Think You Can Squeeze? Citrus Season 2! Over the next three weeks YOU get to be the one in the judge's seat as you decide which of our two aspiring citrus chefs has done the best job with three fabulous recipes featuring Florida Citrus products. Your job is simple: check in each week and read both Gav's and Jen's recipe reviews, compare the pictures, and then vote by telling us what you think! We will be giving away one KitchenAid stand mixer (!!!!!) each week for three weeks! (That's THREE, if you are counting at home!) Your comment... More »

So You Think You Can Squeeze?!? Week 2! Vote and Win!

January 24, 2011 5:00 PM | 229 Comments

So You Think You Can Squeeze?!? Week 1! Vote and Win!

January 17, 2011 2:05 PM | 254 Comments

Ragú® Old World Style™ Original

By Carol on December 8, 2010 4:16 PM | 23 Comments

When the cold weather comes in, it's natural to reach for those warm, filling comfort foods we remember from childhood. Today's busy moms need quick and easy-to-prepare options, so even though we may not cook exactly the same way our mothers and grandmothers did, our kids can still enjoy some of the same hearty meals with Ragu Old World Style Original Sauce. A group of 75 Go2Girlz recently tested Ragú® Old World Style™ Original Sauce with their families, and the results were very positive! Nearly all of our product testing panel said they would buy Ragú® again (many already have!) and... More »

LEGO® DUPLO® Product Review Product

By Carol on November 16, 2010 8:30 AM | 18 Comments

Ahem. We don't want to alarm anybody or anything, but have you looked at your calendar lately? Can it possibly be mid-November already? Yes, it is. And do you know what that means? That's right: the holiday gift-buying season is upon us. Yikes! The mall parkades are probably already all full! But whatever your cultural stripes, having a few good gift ideas up your sleeve always comes in handy, no matter what season it is.Several of the Go2Girlz mentioned that they'd love to see a mesh bag or similar re-usable storage container included with the sets (some LEGO® and LEGO®... More »

Week #2 Tart Cherry Bake-Off and Contest

By Carol on November 8, 2010 1:06 AM | 108 Comments

Welcome to week two of the tart cherry cook and bake-off sponsored by the Ontario Tender Fruit Producers. You, our members, are in the judge's seat as you decide who has done the best job with this recipes featuring tart cherry products. Read both Gav's and Carol's recipe reviews and compare the pictures of their final product! Let us know who did it best by commenting below and you'll earn a second ballot for a Kitchen Aid® Stand Mixer courtesy of the Ontario Tender Fruit Producers! This week's recipe is oatmeal cherry cookies. Oatmeal Cherry Cookies Adapted from choosecherries.comMakes: 4 dozen cookiesIngredients:1... More »

Tart Cherry Cook-Off and Contest!

By Carol on November 2, 2010 1:10 AM | 365 Comments

Welcome to the tart cherry cook and bake-off sponsored by the Ontario Tender Fruit Producers. Watch and participate as Chef Dad and UrbanMoms staffer and want-to-be-chef Carol battle it out over the next two weeks. You, our members, will be in the judge's seat as you decide who has done the best job with the two fabulous recipes featuring tart cherry products. Your job is simple: check in each week and read both Gav's and Carol's recipe reviews and compare the pictures of their final product! Let us know who did it best by commenting below and you'll earn a... More »

Welch's 100% Fruit Juice

By Kath on October 18, 2010 8:29 AM | 106 Comments

Kids love juice. But as moms, we want to be sure that when they drink juice, it's a good choice. Most moms are always on the lookout for juices which possess healthier features like no added sugar, 100% juice and vitamins. But not all juice is created equal, so it's important to be discerning. Recently 200 members of our Go2Girlz testing panel had the opportunity to sample Welch's Grape Juice with their families.Welch's 100% Grape Juice deliver the goodness of grapes in every glass. It's an excellent source of antioxidant vitamin C to help support a healthy immune system. It's... More »

Knorr Lipton Chicken Noodle Soup with 25% less salt

By Kath on September 28, 2010 7:45 PM | 135 Comments

It's an all-time family favourite: Knorr Lipton Chicken Noodle soup. And now it's even better, with 25% less sodium. It's also endorsed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Health Check program, so you can feel confident knowing you're feeding your family the same great soup they love, packed with tasty goodness and 25% less sodium. With busy schedules, many moms need quick, delicious meals they can serve their on-the-go families - but today's mom is also looking out for healthier options. Lower in sodium but with the great flavour you already know and love, Knorr Lipton Chicken Noodle soup with... More »

Hill's® Science Diet™

By Kath on September 14, 2010 2:09 PM | 33 Comments

Anyone with a pet knows that we love our furry family members every bit as much as the rest of the family. But dogs and cats age faster than humans, and it can be hard to cope with the changes that come with an aging pet in the family. Dogs, in particular, can suffer from noticeable mobility issues as they age, which can have an impact on everyone in the family as they find it difficult to manage stairs, long walks or runs or even have trouble getting up and down from a rest.Many families with older dogs will be... More »

Sunlight® Deep Clean™: Get Brilliant to WIN!

By Kath on August 31, 2010 1:02 AM | 873 Comments

As moms, we're most likely the primary (if not sole) person responsible for laundry in our homes. We want our family's clothes to be clean and bright, but what many of us don't know is that while our clothes may look clean, some detergents can leave behind trapped body oils and sweat deep in the fibres of our clothes- even after washing! We're all familiar with the stubborn yellowish stains that can linger on white shirts after several wearings: stains that can prove almost impossible to remove from underarms and collars. These stains are caused by the lingering body oils... More »

LISTERINE® WHITENING™ PLUS RESTORING™ Fluoride Rinse

By Kath on May 25, 2010 1:00 PM | 20 Comments

There have been lots of studies in recent years on the health benefits of a moderate daily consumption of red wine, and now experts are telling us that a cup or two of coffee a day can be beneficial to us as well. This is great news for those of us who like to enjoy these beverages, but not necessarily great news for our teeth. There are also lots of other foods that can discolour our teeth, and age itself is also a factor in yellowing our beautiful pearly whites. But fear not - you don't have to resort... More »

OxiClean® MaxForce® Power Paks

By Kath on April 27, 2010 8:00 AM | 48 Comments

Summer's nearly here, and that means kids are spending more time horsing around outdoors. Heck, so are we! All that great outdoor time is wonderful, but as great as it can be to muck around in the garden, barbeque, break out the bikes and run through the sprinkler, it means one more thing for moms: more laundry stains. Detergent alone isn't always enough to get out the toughest stains and get clothes their cleanest. We need a stain fighter and booster that will get out those tough summer stains the first time - so we can stop worrying about... More »

Mr Christie's Snak Paks Soft Baked Cookies

By Kath on March 9, 2010 1:50 AM | 32 Comments

We all know one of those moms. You know, the ones who bake absolutely everything from scratch? While I'm sure we've all done our fair share of baking, there are times when we're going to buy store-bought snacks for our kids. And for those times, isn't it great to know that there's actually a brand out there using the same kind of tricks - like adding in a touch of vegetable purée - to make great tasting snacks for our little darlings? Mr. Christie's Snak Paks Soft Baked Cookies fit this bill perfectly. Part of the Kraft Sensible Solution product... More »

Harumika

By Kath on February 3, 2010 12:45 AM | 54 Comments

Harumika. What is it? That was the question on the minds of most of the Go2Girlz who took part in our recent product testing program. We asked 100 Go2Girlz and their daughters to test out this new fashion-design toy in their homes and tell us what they thought. Most of our testing panel members were skeptical at first, although it seems that many of their girls were more enthusiastic, like Freda's daughter, who received the package on her birthday (perfect!) "when I opened the package my daughter screamed, 'oh my gosh this is so beautiful, I can make my own... More »

So You Think You Can Squeeze? Recipe #3

By Kath on February 2, 2010 9:43 PM | 66 Comments

Welcome to the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN SQUEEZE CHALLENGE! It's the final week for you to be in the judge's seat and decide which of our two aspiring Citrus Chefs has done the best job with the three fabulous recipes featuring Florida Citrus products. You've already spoken on the first two recipes, and so far Kath and Carol are tied. It's a Squeeze-Off! Now, you have seven more days to read both Kath's and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures of their final product and vote!Remember, when you comment on each recipe after you vote, you'll earn a ballot for some amazing prizes! By voting... More »

Whose Sweet Sticky Orange Chicken do you like best?

Continue reading So You Think You Can Squeeze? Recipe #3.

So You Think You Can Squeeze? Recipe #2

By Kath on January 26, 2010 8:46 PM | 50 Comments

Welcome to the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN SQUEEZE CHALLENGE! Over the next three weeks you'll be the ones in the judge's seat as you decide which of our two aspiring Citrus Chefs has done the best job with three fabulous recipes featuring Florida Citrus products. Your job is simple: check in each week and read both Kath's and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures of their final product and then vote! When you comment below after you vote, you'll earn a ballot for some amazing prizes! This week, Roasted Sweet Potato and Grapefruit† Salad: KATH'S REVIEW:Okay, I'm going to be totally honest with you here:... More »

Which salad do you like better?

Continue reading So You Think You Can Squeeze? Recipe #2.

So You Think You Can Squeeze?

By Kath on January 19, 2010 5:40 PM | 333 Comments

Welcome to the SO YOU THINK YOU CAN SQUEEZE CHALLENGE! Over the next three weeks you'll be the ones in the judge's seat as you decide which of our two aspiring Citrus Chefs has done the best job with three fabulous recipes featuring Florida Citrus products. Your job is simple: check in each week and read both Kath's and Carol's recipe reviews, compare the pictures of their final product and then vote! When you comment below after you vote, you'll earn a ballot for some amazing prizes! This week, Grapefruit† Glazed Bran Muffins: KATH'S REVIEW Last winter I had the... More »

Which muffin do you like better?

Continue reading So You Think You Can Squeeze?.

Wonder+ Invisibles

By Kath on January 4, 2010 5:26 PM | 65 Comments

Who doesn't love bread? It's such a staple of the human diet that we have expressions like "our daily bread" deeply embedded in our language. Kids love bread, too, and most of them eat a lot of it (think lunchbox sandwiches). Thing is, though, many kids tend to be rather picky eaters, and some of them just don't like the taste and texture of "brown", whole-wheat or multigrain breads. Enter Wonder+ Invisibles - a new product from Weston Bakeries that combines the same great taste, look and texture of Wonder white bread with the goodness of 14 whole grains. How... More »

Huggies® Little Movers Diapers Product Review and Coupon Offer

By Kath on November 17, 2009 9:43 PM

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