How To Survive Life in The Suburbs

Can Cougars Wear Glasses?

2012-05-29T07:07:00.000-04:00

So it’s time, truth be told it’s way overdue.

I need to get my 41 year old eyes checked. I see fine, I really do! I think. So why is it that every time I pick up the phone and start to dial the number of the Optometrist I suddenly remember I have something incredibly important to do like laundry, or clean out the fridge or um pee? Yah, just about anything to delay THAT call. Why? Well, because I’m pretty sure I will not make it out of the office this time without my very first pair of glasses. You see the last time I went in to see the lovely Optometrist he looked right into my stressed out and bloodshot peepers, grinned and slyly said “Well, you don’t need glasses, this time”. What?! To be honest, I was pretty sure I flunked that eyesight test and was doing everything I could to prepare myself for the announcement that my middle aged eyes needed professional help. I had visions of him taking away my car keys and not allowing me to leave the office until some coke style thick lenses with granny frames were firmly perched upon my nose. I was not happy about this future vision of myself, but as a grown up woman I was steeling myself not to cry in front of a Doctor about a pair of stupid glasses. ~~and the fact that what it really meant was that I was now officially old, all my sexy gone~~

You see, I don’t have anything against glasses, it’s just this; I’m vain. Yep. I am not a girl who should ever wear hats and I’m pretty sure I am not a girl who can pull off glasses. Sigh and help!

Given the fact that I tried my sister’s glasses on last month, you know, just for fun and realized I could see signs way off in the distance BETTER with her glasses on then without, I think it might be time to stop all this childish procrastinating, bite the bullet and make. that. call.

So wish me luck and then tell me this, do you think a cougar can still wear glasses?

Counting My Blessings

2012-05-28T07:28:00.000-04:00

I know we are lucky to live near an incredible Children’s Hospital. At least I thought I new how lucky I was, and then I watched this video…

Please meet Erik Knotts and watch his Miracle Story unfold.

Imagine if this baby had not had access to a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital! Thanks to all of the staff who lead with their hearts every day, and to all of the people who donate to these Hospitals, so when our sick babies need somewhere to run to…there is a safe place to fall.

I am part of the #MiracleMoms team and am trying to raise $1, 000.00 on behalf of local Children’s Hospitals. Would you like to join my team? Can you spare $5.00 or $10.00 to help make the difference in the life of a child?

Disclosure: I am participating in the #MiracleMoms campaign and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Then there are the Shoes! SHOP.CA launching soon!

2012-05-26T07:51:00.000-04:00

Is there really anything better then finding a super fab deal? Well, yep, it turns out that there is! There is finding a super fab deal on an online Shopping site designed by Canadians for Canadians. Oh and it’s launching so so SOON!!! Welcome SHOP.CA !!

I am writing this post today to get something off my chest, since SHOP.CA is launching SOON!! (like really soon) I’m excited to go Shopping and it’s time to start daydreaming about what to buy and rationalizing why I should buy it! Here’s why I think you simply need to join me and sign up!

1) You simply must check out this incredible new Shopping site because if you don’t how on earth are we going to squee together about the Estee Lauder products we found without having to get in the car, do the parking lot dance and then wait in line hoping against hope they are not out of the Spotlight Concealer that you can not live without? Seriously. Sign up and avoid all the drama.

2) SHOP from your couch or bed people! Yes, Shopping from your bed or couch with no limited store hours slowing me down, this really is the ultimate in luxury yes? This my friends is reason number two I can’t wait for SHOP.CA to open!

3) No big Shopping bags to hide from Hubby, oh and a new fun reason to get dressed up in the morning! You know, to look super cute for the delivery guy? Because that guy will be stopping by a little more often.

4) Have you seen some of the brands SHOP.CA will be carrying? Good grief!

On my must have list; new sandals for summer, perhaps a new bag to match, the previously mentioned make up, some stuff for the house, the garden, and maybe even a few things for the kids. I’m good like that.

Oh but looking at the site..again…I can think of a few electronic gadgets for the Hubby too!

Wait, did you know you can get pet food too? Oh I am all over that. I HATE dragging that 50lb bag home!

“You can order all your pet supply needs at SHOP.CA, and we’ll deliver them to your door. So why not stock up on some pet supplies and share some love with your loyal friend.”

5) Last, but not the least important reason you should sign up for SHOP.CA? Hello, because I said so! I kid, but c’mon you know you want to go shopping with lil ole me! So what are you waiting for? What will you be Shopping for first??

I am part of the SHOP.CA Super Shopper program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Heed My Warning, Beware Of Loaded Rods

2012-05-25T07:33:00.000-04:00

This past weekend we my Sweet Hubby and Brother-In Law put together a SpringFree Trampoline in our back yard. There was much laughing, eating, and a little bit of cursing and sweating. Thankfully for once in my Husbands life there was also instruction reading.

This thick manual that accompanies the spring free trampoline clearly warns:

“Treat any loaded rod with caution…”

“Keep your face well away from any loaded rod.”

These two warnings were apparently all kinds of funny, They were also repeated at nauseaum by two grown man children, oh and my sister. Um, but turns out they are warnings to be taken quite seriously! Yep, one heavily loaded “Rod” went off! Popped off if you will, full force in the direction of my brother in law! That loaded “Rod” sprang at him with a mighty force, wacked him on the inside of his left thigh in the most delicate of areas, and ricocheted past his face to ultimately leave him with a sweet purple bruise. It should be noted that this chain reaction also left my ~~not~~ terribly concerned Hubby doubled over in laughter with tears rolling down his face.

Moral of the story, laugh if you must, giggle like a school boy at every innuendo you can manage, but read the directions, because as they say, it’s all fun and games until somebody loses an eye, or something else equally as important.

It’s Been A Year

2012-05-23T07:33:00.000-04:00

I can’t believe it has been a year. One year since I went on the vacation of a lifetime. One year since I had the most romantic Birthday lunch any girl could ever ask for on the top of the Eiffel Tower. Le Sigh.

Yes, today I turn 41. Gulp. Instead of dwelling on that, I will remember all that was Paris.

Walking hand in hand down century old streets until our feet hurt.

Hot chocolate for breakfast and gourmet dinners.

Laughing until our faces ached, talking until we found that quiet comfortable place, and then practicing our French as only two in love can. Re-discovering life as a couple. Being quiet, being inspired, being awed. It was falling in love all over again.

Paris was more then I could have ever dreamed of.

I’m so grateful for these memories so indulge me as I play my super sappy You Tube video one more time!

Happy Birthday to me! I can’t wait to see what this year holds.

Mwah!

Cougar Alert!

2012-05-22T07:33:00.000-04:00

We snuck away for just a few hours. Escaped to the beach, where life seems easier…but apparently still requires coffee. After taking in a wee one’s birthday party it was time to make a coffee run. I mean I’m 40, I need me some caffeine if I expect to make it much past sunset these days.

We loaded the kiddos in the car and I drove. Dear Hubby had indulged in a few bevvies and was not getting behind the wheel. As we trucked down the dusty beach road we passed a huge gang of about 15 twenty something's going to get their party on. The irony was not lost on me that they were heading out on the town, ready to dance and drink all night, while I was headed out in search of coffee with the hopes that I might see 10pm. This crew seemed oblivious to my giant family filled SUV so I was forced to roll down my window and issue a polite “Watch out guys”. What was I met with? Was it rudeness? Ignorance? Were we ignored? Nope. A very polite young fella leaned over in my direction and yelled.

“CALL ME….”

Um, this Suburban Mama with a car chock full of Husband and kids was stunned into silence. I may have harboured a secret grin of pure happy on my face. (Turn’s out Mama’s still got it going on!)

But then, from the backseat, a primal yell from my 10 year old daughter.

“SHE’S MARRIED !!!”

Bwhahaha. You tell em Honey.

Right back to reality as our car erupted with side splitting laughter.

Guess I’ve finally reached my cougar status, whether I’m ready or not.

May “Two Four”!

2012-05-18T09:44:00.001-04:00

At what age did we start calling this glorious upcoming long weekend the “Two Four” Weekend? The first official weekend of the summer! Was it at about 18? That age when we were sure no one was cooler and nothing was better then when you grabbed your besties, your bikini, your sunscreen and of course your 2-4 and headed to the nearest beach and hoped, no prayed the sun came out. Thinking back to that, I have to admit, it does sound PRETTY good right about now. Imagine, an entire weekend where all you would have to worry about is where you will crash, what you would wear, and who would bring the Malibu Rum.

Those days are looonnng gone.

My May “Two Four” this year? Let’s see. SweetGirl has got to get some piano practice in she has an exam in a couple of weeks, and I have to check to see if dance is cancelled. BlueEyes has gymnastics on both Friday and Sunday. Hubby has to work. Sigh. Then of course there is the regular homework and fabulous over grown lawn and laundry. I do have a little party on Saturday to look forward to. Sure it’s a Birthday bash for a one year old, but you know what, those are now my fave kind of events! (Don’t judge, I’m old now and don’t get out much)

Oh how life has changed. Somehow we’ve gone from who has the cutest bikini to who has the busiest calendar. Normal, but not always fun. This Mama in the Suburbs needs a break. Needs to shake things up a bit!

Somewhere between the piano, the homework the housework, gymnastics and dance I need to squeeze some good old fashioned “Two Four ” into it! Or at least some wine?

Here’s the plan. I bought me some sunscreen and there’s a bottle of white wine chillin’ in the fridge. I will not let this first weekend squeak by without dusting off the bikini ~~tankini~~ and hitting the beach. I might even take my Husband and Kids. The plan, to get a cocktail in one hand, and a shovel and pail in the other because this is how I roll.

My “Two Fours” may look a little more like this now…

….but truth be told, I really couldn’t ask for anything more.

Safe and Happy “Two Four”!

Getting My Domestic Goddess On

2012-05-17T08:59:00.000-04:00

With Olivieri® Lasagna Sheets

Confession time. I am not a fabulous cook. I pretty much fake my way through the kitchen with some preettyy awesome baking, some easy to follow recipes and some kickin take-out…. plated like a pro. Now don’t get me wrong, I can cook up some chicken with the best of them ~~thanks to my chicken obsessed Mama who can cook a chicken 400 ways~~ but other then that. Not so confident.

HOWEVER, one dish I do rock, the Lasagna. Or at least I thought I was rocking it, until I realized there is a way to kick this dish up a notch!

You see, I was the girl using those hard, kind of crunchy ready to go noodles when I made my “Classic Kill You With Cheese and Love Lasagna”. The evidence was clear at the end of the cooking that I had room for improvement, the chunks of super hard “pasta” left on my counter were a dead giveaway. I probably should have gotten a clue when even the dog wouldn’t touch the “pasta” that hit the floor.

This is why I was interested in trying Olivieri® Lasagna Sheets! I have to tell you I now realize what this domestic goddess had being missing out on.

Easy to use, made with whole grain, no preservatives, artificial colours or flavours these Olivieri® Lasagna Sheets were already a better choice then my old alternative. It was time to give them a whirl.

I started to create my “Classic Kill You with Cheese and Love Lasagna”. I know you are dying for the recipe. No worries. I’ll share. (Just don’t tell anyone how ridiculously easy it is)

You will need:

Pasta Sauce

Olivieri® Lasagna Sheets

Ricotta Cheese (1 500g container)

Cottage Cheese (1 500g container)

Mozzarella Cheese (lots)

Tex Mex Cheese (little!)

Lean Ground Beef (umm lots)

Red and Yellow Tomatoes –sliced or diced

Now the easy part:

Brown the ground beef, throwing in some garlic and onion to taste.

Combine Ricotta and Cottage Cheeses and set aside.

Then start layering! Pasta sauce, Pasta Sheets, more Sauce, Beef, Tomatoes, Cheese mixture, Mozzarella and then start again! When you are done top with a little Tex Mex cheese, you know, just because you can.

Doesn’t take long to create a monster of a dinner! You might want to invite the neighbours. Throw in the perfect sides of a Caesar Salad and my new fave, Olivieri Garlic bread. I have never pulled a Garlic Bread out of a package before and said WOW before I cook it!! You can see the garlicky goodness. Delish.

You now have a meal that will actually have your kids saying “thank you” without being prompted. This is HUGE people. HUGE!!

And back to my confessions, I will not be buying the hard ready to go style pastas ever again. These Olivieri® Lasagna Sheets were much easier to use, it was fresh and I feel good about giving to my kids!

Thanks Olivieri!

Disclosure: I am a member of the Maple Leaf Foods Connects program. As part of my participation, I have been compensated both monetarily and with free product , however, all opinions and ideas shared on this blog remain my own.

Stronger. Seattle Children’s Hospital

2012-05-16T07:01:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday is usually a time to post the whimsical, satirical, funny or amusing. For me, as of late, I’ve even decided it was okay to post a few “brag worthy” pictures of my own kids. Nothing wrong with a little pride right?

Today a different route.

A goose bump inducing, count your blessings, send a little prayer, give a little smile video created at Seattle Children’s Hospital. One of the ten Hospitals from across Canada and the United States being covered by our team of MiracleMoms. I dare you to turn up the volume, sing along, and then leave me a comment tell me what you think!

Then if you really want to make a difference, I ask you to consider leaving a small donation to benefit Children’s Miracle Hospitals and Children’s Miracle Network.

For the kids…….

Hugs and Thanks.

*Miracle Moms is a team of 10 passionate bloggers banding together to try and make a difference. I have set a personal goal to try and raise $1,000.00 but can not do this without your help. Any and all donations are appreciated. With heartfelt thanks….

Winner Winner!

2012-05-15T22:42:00.000-04:00

Oh yes, time to announce the long over due winners of the Horse Magic Giveaway and congratulate a few folks for being brave enough to take the Werther’s plunge and video themselves eating on camera?!

(Hey if I did it anyone can) So here we go!

The Winners of the supremely awesome iPad Magic Horse Story app are:

1) Nancy Tch said... 3
My 5 yr old daughter would absolutely love this! She uses our iPad more than I do and loves to read.

2) Linda said... 14

My ten year old daughter would LOVE this! She is not quite as enthusiastic a reader as her older sister, and the "magic" might be just the hook I need to motivate her!

3) Julie said... 29

Like u on fb Julie

hebb dot Julie at gmail dot com

4) Lee-Ann said... 11

Follow on Twitter @leeanncrazylife

5) Shelagh said... 19

My daughter is in love with horses and would love to read this!

Thanks to each and every one of your for entering!

My Brave video makers include:

1) Emma said... 6

cool video, great contest, I would upload video if chosen!

(Emma please contact me with your mailing address)

2) Happy Chinadoll said... 10

3) jewpoker said... 11

I would absolutely do a video!! I hope I am not too late.

(jewpoker you are not too late I just need your mailing deets)

4) Bree said... 12

I would also upload a video!

5) breej23 at hotmail dot com

AND

6) linkedmoms said... 9

Paula!! You’re in too! I just need your mailing deets!

Thanks for to all of you for playing along, your families are going to love you!

Is Your Husband In The Waiting Room?

2012-05-14T07:29:00.000-04:00

Bridget and her Husband Matt had always known twins were a possibility for them. There are lots of twins in their families, giving them greater then average odds for that lucky number two, but at 12 weeks into her second pregnancy it really was the farthest thing from Bridget’s mind. Yes, she was a little sicker then usual, sure she was more tired, but after all, this was her second baby. She already had a wee one at home and every pregnancy was different right?
At the 12 week ultra sound appointment Bridget lay on the table in anxious anticipation, ready to see her little one. Things were taking a little longer then she remembered they should, so she began to joke a little bit with the Ultra Sound technician. She light heartedly mentioned twins running in the family. The techs response to her joking manor. “Bridget, is your Husband in the waiting room?”
Matt was summoned from the waiting area and stood by Bridget's side. His eyes began to grow wide in disbelief as the ultrasound tech calmly declared. “Well, I think you have outdone your family. This is baby number one. This is baby number two, and this…….is baby number three.”
A due date was set for the three babies of June 23rd 2012….and so began what can only be described as an incredible journey.
Over the next few weeks I will have the pleasure of telling you the miraculous story of Bridget, Matt, their 18 month old son, and of course the babies. Now only 3 weeks old. It is truly my honour to introduce to you….. Charlotte, Elizabeth, and the mighty Alexandra.

Three little girls that are going to inspire you with their strength and break your heart with their sweetness.
I hope you will come with me on this journey as we ride with this family through their ups and downs, feel their fear and cry their tears of joy. I also hope you will consider making a small donation to the first ever #MiracleMoms campaign. It is my hope, my goal to raise $1 000.00 to benefit the Children in my local hospitals who require the services made available through Children’s Miracle Network Canada and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Without fundraising initiative's such as these ….where would these babies be? Where would we turn when our babies need help?
Do you know a child fighting cancer? Born too soon? Who has had to spend too much time with adults and not enough time playing in the sunshine? If you would like to help me provide another happy moment, bring a little smile, create another miracle, click here to donate, or that little button right there on the side of my blog.
I thank you for your help, your support and your love.

Sharing the Joy. The Story Of Ryder

2012-05-12T19:51:00.000-04:00

Back in February I had the privilege of introducing you to an incredible little boy. His name is Ryder. His sweetness, his journey, and other little people like him are just some of the many reasons ten bloggers from across Canada and the United States are banding together to create the MiracleMoms campaign. Together we will tell you the stories of some incredible children and their families as they access the services of Children’s Hospitals in your area! Together we will rejoice in their extraordinary Miracles. I dare you to watch this video and try to feel anything but pure love. Turn up the volume and grab the Kleenex….

Would you like to be able to help a child like Ryder? You can!!

Join my team and become a #MiracleMom.

Tomorrow we launch #MiracleMoms and I have vowed to try and raise $1000.00 to benefit local Children’s Hospitals. My donation button is right there on the side of my blog and You can help!

Make a donation today. Every small donation makes a difference. Still struggling to find a Mother’s Day gift? Why not make a donation to this campaign to honour your Mother? Then I invite you to come back tomorrow and meet another incredible family who is truly thankful for the support of people just like you.

Thanks…. to Ryder’s fabulous Mom for sharing Ryder’s story.

Thanks and hugs to all of you this Mother’s Day.

Brilliance On The Highway

2012-05-09T08:33:00.000-04:00

Driving down the 401 at more then 100 km per hour and what do we see? An idiot with a carpet sticking so far out his car window he’s actually in two lanes!! Maybe now I’ve seen everything.

Saying Good Bye to a Crappy Week

2012-05-07T20:00:00.000-04:00

Stomach flu took over the house.

Migraines dominated my world.

Bad news flooded in from left and right.

Girl drama escalated to new heights of ridiculousness.

Ran out of coffee.

Finally left the house and broke the heel on my favourite pair of boots.

Got a big old blister from the back up boots.

Lawn mower broke so our over grow lawn is officially the worst on the block.

Dog threw up on the carpet. Clearly she had been eating Poo. Poop vomit is a whole new level of disgusting. Good times.

…but now a new week.

A wicked storm is brewing I can feel it. I’m counting on the super moon and the thunderstorm to set things right in the suburbs.

We declared war on the stomach flu in this house, and dare I say I think we have beaten it?

I doubled my headache drugs and am feeling a little dizzy. I’ll take it.

I am done with bad news. I simply refuse to hear anymore. Good news must follow bad.

My girl has dried her tears and is putting last week behind her. Sh*t happens. Live and learn. You do the best you can with the knowledge you have. Forgive, forget, be kind, smile, be happy, and all that jazz. I will take a page from her book and do the same.

Hubby brought me coffee this morning. HUGE points for him.

I decided a broken heel on my boots simply means it’s time to buy a new pair of boots.

We got that lawn mower started and now have the greenest grass on the block! (This development may be because we mowed over the piles of dog poo. No more afternoon snacks for puppy, no more poopy dog vomit on my carpet)

This week Monday will be my favourite day of the week!

Werther’s Original Share Your Reaction!

2012-05-07T07:06:00.000-04:00

Confession.

I just ate an entire bag of Werther’s Original Caramel Chocolates.

Sigh, I didn't`t mean to! This sweet bag of treats arrived in the mail, I popped them open and swore I would try just one. Before I knew it, the bag was gone! Let me show you how it went…..

(try to ignore the fact that I giggle like an idiot)

Yep. I decided to try an Werther’s Original Caramel Chocolate for the “Share Your Reaction”contest on Facebook! Once I opened that bag and got started, I simply couldn't stop. They are caramely and chocolaty and frankly they are all mine. The fun part is that by making this little video of myself trying them and uploading here I now have a chance to win the super awesome Grand Prize that includes:

SWEEEET!!

There will also be SIXTEEN Weekly Prizes available to be won! Each consisting of two Sony 8GB bloggie™ Touch Full HD camcorders.
How great would that be!

Want to play along? If you are Canadian and want to enter this contest by uploading your own video, and who wouldn't, be one of the first 10 people to comment on this post and tell me so!! Werther’s has offered to send FREE bags of this super yum product to up to TEN of my Canadian readers! I just need you to promise to upload a quick video! Hello, free Werther’s and a chance to win amazing prizes?? Who`s in?? The contest closes on May 31st so let’s see those Werther’s reactions!

Disclosure: I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with the Share Your Reaction campaign. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Chasing Her Joy…

2012-05-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Run off my feet in a whole new way. Helping one little ballerina’s dreams come true as she takes the stage in her first competition. Doesn’t matter to me how she does, she made it….she already won.

Hope you all have time to spend with your little one’s this weekend and I hope they are chasing their joy.

Twitter Party Alert #SHOPDOTCA

2012-05-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

The launch of SHOP.CA is just around the corner!
To celebrate the beginning of friendly, hassle-free online Shopping, we're throwing a Twitter Party!

Join us for a fun night where we’ll chat about your favourite online Shopping tips, learn more about the amazing brands that you'll find on SHOP.CA, and get excited for what promises to be a Canadian Shopping Revolution!

WHEN: Thursday, May 10th from 8:30 – 10:00pm EST.
WHO: All are invited to party, but prizing is open to Canadians only.
HOSTS: Join @SHOPdotCA, @Listen2Lena, @FeistyFrugal, @MyChaos, @SassyModernMom and @SimplyStacieNet using the hashtag #SHOPDOTCA
PRIZES: Over $2000 in Prizing, including a Samsung 40″ 1080p LED HDTV, 5 x $100 SHOP.CA Gift Cards and Luxury SHOP.CA Gift Baskets featuring brands such as Clinique, SoyaBoutique, Artsy Pear, Lise Watier and more!

Don’t forget to RSVP below for your chance to win a fabulous prize! Then, mark your calendars, and we’ll see you on Thursday night!

***Please be sure to enter your Twitter Handle “@YourTwitterHandle” in the Link/Blog Title field, and your Twitter URL “www.twitter.com/yourtwitterhandle” in the Link Field***

Heavy Breathing, Dry Heaving and Lysol.

2012-05-03T07:33:00.000-04:00

This post contains TMI. Real life tidbits of well, puke.

You’ve been warned.

It’s 1am and I am startled awake by heavy breathing in my left ear. Not the sexy kind, the kind that comes from the sneaky little short people that live in my house. My baby has tip toed into my room, she didn’t want to wake me but did want me to know her “tummy didn’t feel well at all, and she was super dizzy”. Oh crap.

I love almost all things about being a Mommy but I do hate the “I’m gonna puke” declaration. So what do I try and do? Talk her out of it.

“Oh baby, maybe you just need a little water?”

“Do you have a headache?”

“Have you even slept yet? Maybe you are just super tired?”

As I try and talk her OUT of being sick…her little feet make a dash for the toilet bowl. Let the puking begin.

Gag.

72 hours of vomit and Lysol. Ice chips and extra laundry. Pedialyte and too much children’s TV programing. Finally the introduction of crackers and soup. I hate the flu, but see light at the end of this long pukey tunnel. Three days of this crap and I only had to talk myself out of vomiting five or six times. Not winning Mother of the year with this stat, but not bad.

Crisis over.

Except it’s not. As I tuck myself into bed, turn off the late night news…I hear the padding of more little feet. Oh yah, I have two kids. Daughter number two now has the flu. Sigh. She would not be talked out of it. (no matter how hard I tried to convince her she was not going to be sick)

Here we go again.

So this post is courtesy of six straight days of vomit and Lysol, sleep deprivation and just a wee bit of feeling sorry for myself.

This is real life in the suburbs, just trying to share some of my ridiculous glamour.

You're welcome.

Horse Magic - A Give Away!

2012-05-02T08:40:00.000-04:00

Times are changing. Now I’m a girl who usually loves the feel of a real solid book between my hands, but my girls, they are incredibly tech savvy and all about the new, the exciting and the fabulous! This is why I was eager to try Horse Magic. A brand new iPad app. You know what? I am so glad I did! Today I am happy to introduce to what is frankly the new must try for any little reader in your house! Yes, an app that takes the young reader and immerses them right into the story they are reading! How cool is that? Thanks to technology, this imaginative reading adventure takes place in magical spaces, with beautiful waving grasses, deep forests, rushing brooks and ancient stone walls. Every place in the story comes to life vividly.

The authors' of Horse Magic adore horses and by creating Horse Magic for the iPad were able to bring the adventures of three curious girls and an unexpected guest, a mysterious horse, to life in truly amazing ways!
As the book begins the setting is a riding paddock on a rainy afternoon. The moment is brought to life as rain drops “splatter the page” and we hear the soft patter of rain in the background. Remarkable!! We are introduced to the main characters and I am overjoyed to tell you they are normal, wonderful, inquisitive young women. Before long these girls are off on the adventure of their lives.
As the chapters progress my youngest daughter wanted to keep reading, not just to see what happen in the story, but also to see what new and wonderful “trick” the iPad would do next! Would they see falling leaves through the pages, hear a babbling brook, be startled by approaching hooves and shaking words? So many small nuances that added sweet elements of surprise to the story. The reader is immersed in the story like I never thought possible.

In this day and age it is often hard to keep children engaged in reading. With the added elements of surprise strategically placed within this well written story I guarantee your little one’s will be begging to read just one more chapter before bed! Please!!
Some good news. This is only one book of many in a series about Shelby, Annalee, Cammie and a horse called Magic.
More good news! I have FIVE copies of Horse Magic by Cathy Hapka to giveaway!!
Entering is so easy and open to all!
Mandatory Entry
1. Leave me a comment telling me who in your family you think would enjoy reading Horse Magic. Please don’t forget to leave me a correct e-mail address so I can reach you!
Easy Extra Entries
2. Head over to the Horse Magic website then come on back and tell me what you found most interesting over there? Any little thing will do!
3. Pop by the Horse Magic Facebook page and give them a like, then come on back and tell me that you did!
4. Follow my blog publicly and tell me you do.
5. Follow me on twitter @SassyModernMom
6. Give this a tweet! You may cut and paste if you wish: 1 tweet / day.
My kids love to read and I entered to win one of FIVE Horse Magic #giveaways via @SassyModernMom Ends May 13 http://bit.ly/aZPhuL
7. Like my Facebook Fan page. Please!
Noteworthy: This very unique book app was created with the help of Bookerella! One ingenious group of designers, artists, technologist, and photographers under the direction of under the lead of Ellen Jacob.
Learn more about Bookerella
Disclosure – I received compensation as a thank you for hosting this giveaway. The opinions on this blog are my own. Pictures courtesy of HorseMagic.
*Closing Date extended due to some fabulous computer issues!

Overwhelmed

2012-04-30T07:02:00.000-04:00

This weekend I have been dealing with one sick kiddo. The stomach flu has taken over our house and frankly, it sucks. My days have consisted of watching my baby girl cry because she feels so miserable, cooling her fevered forehead with cloths, and feeding her ice chips to combat fever and dehydration. Nights have been reserved for holding her hair when she is sick, trying to comfort her and telling her she really is okay. Other then that…feeling sort of useless. It’s awful when your wee one is sick and you can do nothing to help. Logically, I know this is only a tummy bug and in 24 to 48 hours all will be well. Illogically I find myself in tears thinking about an overwhelming, inspiring and completely eye opening tour I just took this past week.

On Friday I was given the very unique opportunity to tour our local Children’s Hospital. For almost three hours I walked the halls with two exceptional tour guides. They showed me the inner workings of this state of the art hospital, threw more stats at me then I will ever remember and forced me to think about children in a way I don’t enjoy. Children who are ill, babies fighting for their lives, and thankfully the little miracles that do and can occur every day.

Haunting me is the image of a tiny girl with wispy blonde hair, light up shoes and a tentative smile. She was quietly treading down a very long hall. This hall was in the Oncology Unit. Behind this darling trailed her stoic yet gently smiling parents and two giant IV stands. I didn’t take her picture, I didn’t have to. I will never forget her sweet face.

Nor will I ever forget the miracle of these little feet…

Belonging to only one of the many miracles being lovingly tended to in the NICU that day.
It is for these miracles, these miracle moments, for these children that I am throwing everything I have into the MiracleMoms campaign. Ten bloggers from across the United States and Canada are banding together to bring to you just a few of the incredible stories that occur in your local hospitals every day. We are each setting up our own donation pages and we are asking you to join us as we become MiracleMoms raising funds to help all of these families and children as they face the fights of their life. As they become the next incredible success story.
Money raised goes directly to local hospitals for much needed services like Art Therapy, Child Life Rooms, and of course state of the art equipment.

In some rooms they need more then 1 MILLION dollars worth of equipment.

That is per child.

Over the next month and a half I will have the privilege of introducing you to an incredible family and will help to tell their unique story. My pledge, to honour their story and to try and raise $1,000.00 to help Children’s Miracle Hospitals and Children’s Miracle Network.
MiracleMoms will make a difference.

Find my donation page here. Thank you. xoxo

Dreaming The Day Away

2012-04-29T07:01:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had one of those weeks where you run non-stop, check a hundred things off your list but still feel like you have not made a dent? Cook dinners, make lunches, do laundry and take care of everyone ~~except yourself~~ but don’t feel like you have really connected?

Sigh. That was me this week.

I need a getaway.

When I say I’m constantly dreaming of my next vacation, I truly mean it!

Now I’m dreaming of days walking soft sand beaches scouring for sea shells, of hours jumping in the waves. Splashing in crystal blue pools and perhaps lounging with a frosty drink or two! Afternoons exploring new places, meeting new people and just spending time basking in the sun with my babies. An entire week to re-connect with my family. That is my idea of perfection. Oh how I would love to have that to look forward to. My daydreaming may be a wee bit out of control.

Finding pictures like this of the Moon Palace Resort doesn’t help.

I have also just learned that PALACE RESORTS is making it easier for families to travel together and enjoy every moment. They have just introduced their Family Connections Program. A concept created to strengthen family bonds through one-of-a-kind vacation experiences without sacrificing the premium level amenities and services that allow parents to reconnect as a couple. Um, hello this sounds like the perfect kind of place for a travel addicted Mama like me!

Some of the fab perks of this program include Walkie Talkie Services to help you keep in touch with your little ones while they enjoy a newly enhanced kids club. Some of their activities at this club? Tennis lessons, mini-golf, Spanish lessons, treasure hunts, beach soccer, piñata-making, beach camping, kiddie disco, cookie-making, pool games, slumber parties, hand-crafting, movie nights, game nights, face painting and masquerade nights. Additionally, the kid's club offers a variety of board games and has a fully-equipped arcade room!!!! Whew! Oh and I almost forgot Eco-friendly and educational activities that include beach clean-up, tree planting, and sea turtle releases in season. I want to release a sea turtle!! There is also a specialized Kid’s Menu, great for picky eaters. Oh and the area the kiddos have to play in? Super fun!

My Hubby and I adore our children, but when we are on vacay, there is nothing wrong with a little privacy right? One of the the 49 new family suites, located in Moon Palace's family-friendly Sunrise section sounds like a perfect solution. Great for bigger families, or peeps like me who want to spread out. They will feature 2 connecting rooms, accommodating up to six people and look like this…NICE!

Sigh. Looks like perfection to me!

Yep, adding Palace Resorts and their new Family Connections Program to my travel bucket list.

So…have you started planning your next getaway?

*Pictures courtesy of Moon Palace

Goldfish Moments Revealing My Giveaway Winner!

2012-04-28T12:00:00.000-04:00

Not so long ago I was lucky enough to participate in a fast paced twitter party where all of us Mama’s had the chance to brag about our children and share our favourite Goldfish Moments! There were some truly sweet moments; Mama’s thankful for Goldfish saving them on car rides, in the grocery stores and even on planes. Between all the chit chat the creative thinkers revealed some fab ideas, using Goldfish Crackers in all kinds of ways. Have you ever thought about using Goldfish Crackers on your salad? As a topping on your cupcakes? Brilliant right?
Take a look at some of the other revelations during the twitter chat, maybe you will even see your name!

Open publication - Free publishing - More goldfish

As part of the Goldfish Moments Conversations, I hosted a giveaway for a Kodak EasyShare M552 Digital Camera plus a Goldfish products pack!! Today I get to announce my lucky winner!!

Thanks to each and everyone of you for sharing your Goldfish Moments with us and a huge congratulations to Jillian H our winner!

Man Hearing

2012-04-27T07:03:00.000-04:00

She coughs.

He doesn’t hear it.

The dog is barking at the back door.

He does not hear it.

I clatter and bang as I do the dishes after dinner.

He is oblivious.

The phone rings.

There is no movement from the couch.

Trees scrape off the windows, the wind howls outside and lightening cracks.

He just. keeps. snoring.

How is it that a man who does not hear a sick child in the night, an animal who whines incessantly, an angry wife slamming doors, a phones shrill ring, or a squeaking sound coming from outside that may or may not be a serial killer….can hear you whisper the word sex from 100 yards away?

Oh yah. I tested it. The dude has a bad case of Man Hearing.

Unbelievable $849 Giveaway from SHOP.CA

2012-04-26T00:01:00.002-04:00

Oh, you are all going to be so happy that I am a Super Shopper for SHOP.CA! Thanks to this incredible company with their big launch happening soon I have access to this amazing giveaway!!
Are you ready?

A Samsung 40" 1080p LED HDTV valued at $849.99
Squee!!!
This my friends is just one of the many reasons you should “like” SHOP.CA on Facebook! You don’t want to miss out on incredible giveaways and promos they offer! Also, when SHOP.CA launches, you’ll want to check them out for hot offers, Facebook-only promos and updates on there new and fabulous retail partners!
Pop on over and see what other Canadians are loving on SHOP.CA and find your own Shopping inspiration!
Be in the know and stay in-the-know on the latest trends and newest products. Stay on top of those trends!
You can also follow @SHOPdotCA on Twitter for the latest news and offerings!
Please don’t forget to Sign-up NOW and receive $10 SHOP.CA Rewards on your first purchase of $100 or more when the site launches! If you sign up NOW you’ll receive 5x the Rewards for all of your purchases for the rest of 2012 (that’s 2.5% for every dollar you spend!)
You do know that signing up is completely FREE right?!

Won’t you please join me here at SHOP.CA

Now on to some more super important stuff. To enter our giveaway, for that incredible Samsung TV, simply leave a comment on this post telling us what you usually like to Shop for online.
Don’t forget to grab your BONUS entries!

a Rafflecopter giveaway We will draw for the television LIVE at our Twitter Party on the evening of May 10^th – more details to come! It’s going to be awesome!
*Please note this contest is open to Canadians only, excluding Quebec.

Time To Get My Swagger Back!

2012-04-24T07:11:00.000-04:00

For the last 13 plus years I have been so careful with every little thing in my daughters worlds. Not Bubble Wrap careful, but normal careful. I shop organic when I can, try to limit the sweets that go in their little mouths, and introduce all foods in moderation. I ensure they get enough fresh air, enough exercise, time with friends and of course enough sleep.

A couple of months ago I took a long hard ~~scary~~ look at myself in the mirror. I was pale, tired and a wee bit sad? I’m addicted to drive thru coffee, meals were often leftovers off my children’s plates, opening my car window counted as fresh air. Girls nights out. No time, and sleep? Who remembers sleep? The term burnt out kinda fit the bill.

Well you know what, I turned 40 this year, I’m finally recovering from a brutal back injury and it’s time to get my swagger back. This Mama is not getting any younger and I want to be 40 and fabulous not 40 and frumpy! If I have hard and fast rules for healthy living for my kids, should I not have some for me too!

I started making some changes. Back on the treadmill. Veggies and protein before carbs. Making date night with Hubby, and Coffee with girlfriends a priority. Sleep? Yeah, I still struggle with sleep. I also started taking Adult Essentials Vitamins.

It’s no secret that I firmly believe in IronKids for my kids. It was my Doctor that suggested I start taking Vitamin B and D for myself. Adding these vitamins to my daily routine when I’m giving them to my kids seemed simple enough.

These little changes may not seem like much, but they are making a difference! It’s easier to get up in the morning. I’m proud of myself for setting a good example for my children and not just talking the talk. I have more energy, and maybe best of all, I feel better about me.

Swagger back? Almost. Sexy back? That’s next!

Find Adult Essentials on Facebook and follow them on Twitter too!

Disclosure: I am a Brand Ambassador for IronKids and Adult Essentials, products I strongly believe in! The opinions expressed in this post are my own.