Shannons View from Here

Top 5 things To Do in Grand Bend this Summer

2013-06-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

The following is a guest post from Kim at Tales of a Ranting Ginger.

Top 5 things to do in Grand Bend this Summer

Grand Bend Ontario is located in Ontario's “West cost” and is a small town of about 1000 residents year round. Then the warm weather hits and tourists from all over come and visit. The beach is sandy and beautiful. The lake Huron water is clean and great for swimming, boating and water sports. The town itself has everything you need for your vacation, banks, two grocery stores, variety stores, gas station, post office and a Shoppers Drug Mart. There is also a public library with free WIFI and a Legion. The main strip is a great place for bar hoppers, shoppers and sun lovers. A mini golf, pizzerias, ice cream shops and unique boutiques make this appealing to people of all ages. Grand Bend is one of my fave places to visit. I actually prefer it in the Spring and Fall, but summer is the busiest.

If you are planning a vacation for a week or a day trip in South Western Ontario, check out Grand Bend Ontario. Conveniently located an hour from London and 45 minutes from The Michigan Border (Port Huron) You can rent a cottage, stay in a hotel or pitch a tent while here. Many options for accommodations.

Top 5 things to do in Grand Bend, Ontario

5. Go to the Drive in and see a movie

Starlight drive in is 15 minutes outside of town and offers all the latest movies on two screens. The price is affordable and popcorn has free refills. there is also a playground for kids.

4. Flea Market

The Pinery Flea Market just 5 minutes outside of town is a great place to check out on Sundays. You can buy pepperonis, cheese curds, french fries and fresh produce. You can also find clothes, antiques and baked goods. Admission is $1 for people over 12 years of age.

3. Barhop

With the strip being the go to place of the bend many love to bar hop. There are so many family Bar and grills, hotels, and pubs and even a couple of Nightclubs to choose from. This is the best place to barhop. Since it is on the beach the dress code is very casual and the drinks are pretty good. Lots of variety. Many have patios you can sit out on and enjoy lunch on during the day if you want.

2. Races

Grand Bend Motorplex is a fun and happening place. They have nonstop action all summer long. Car and bike races, make this a must see destination. There are also concerts on select days. This is a great place for the family but make sure you bring ear protection for the kids. It gets loud!

1. Water fun

The Grand Bend beach is 30 miles of continuous beach. There is a splash pad and playground as well as a seasonal concession stand. The river at the bend is a great place to dock your boats and if into it, sign up for para sailing. Beach Volley ball and fresh water fishing are also big attractions on the beach. This popular beach is a fave for area teens and families to visit throughout the year.

Bio: Kim is a happily married Canadian mom to four, both boys and girls, from kindergarten to college and in between. You can catch her at Tales of a Ranting Ginger.

Artsy Play Wednesday 06/19 ~ Cookie Flowers

2013-06-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by yours truly.... me! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is a Quick & Easy Cookie Flower!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

Kinder® Surprise® Pink For My Unique Girl #KINDERMom

2013-06-18T18:39:00.001-07:00

When my eldest daughter was born she had to have surgery on her spine. The surgery was necessary to release a tethered spinal cord. The surgery was done when DD was 6 months old so it was difficult to know if there were any lasting side effects. The neurologists have watched her closely with MRIs and ultrasounds as she grew to make sure her mobility was not affected.

DD is now 10 years old and she is not held back at all. You would never guess looking at my daughter that she had a serious operation before her first birthday. This kid is one of her soccer teams stars, plays on her schools basketball team, excels in track and field, a member of her school 3 pitch team, has completed a Duathalon and placed 3rd in Alberta (boys and girls) for dirt bike racing! To round it off she is learning to water ski this summer and start hockey in the fall. Her team of doctors are always very pleased and a little amazed at her accomplishments.

Am I a proud momma?

Oh ya!

Do I think she is unique?

You bet I do!

If you hurry to Kinder Canadas facebook page and share what makes your child unique you could win 1 of 3 $250 Visas! But hurry... the contest ends on June 19th 2013.

Take a peek at the unique new Kinder® Surprise® Pink toys over on Kinder Canadas facebook page. Even though my daughter races dirt bikes she is also a fan of PINK and all things girlie. To say that these Surprises were a hit in my house is an understatement! Our favorites were the fuzzy bellied animals friends and the flower rings!

What is your favorite new Kinder toy? What makes your child unique?

Disclosure: I’m part of the KINDER® Mom program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Chovocado Fire Mousse by Wholly Guacamole® Brand

2013-06-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

Chovocado Fire Mousse

by Wholly Guacamole® brand

You won't be able to get enough of this sweet heat! Cinnamon and cayenne pepper are a bold flavor pairing with sweet chocolate and creamy avocado. This unique mousse will be a showstopper with your family and friends. There's also a kid friendly version, just in case it's a bit too spicy for the little ones.

Prep time: about 15 minutes
Serves 2-3

Ingredients

4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
1/4 cup coconut milk, taken from the top of an unshaken can
1 cup Wholly Guacamole 100% Avocado dip
3 tablespoons agave or maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
pinch of kosher or sea salt

Instructions

In a microwave safe dish, break the chocolate into smaller pieces. Melt the chocolate for about 1 minute on high, in the microwave. Remove from the microwave. Not all the chocolate will be melted.
Stir the chocolate with a knife blade to continue melting, until completely melted. Add the coconut milk and stir to mix well. Set aside to cool to room temperature.
In a food processor, put in the Wholly Guacamole avocado dip and process for about 30 seconds. Scrape the sides of the bowl and process again. Add the remaining ingredients then cooled chocolate mixture. Process until mixed thoroughly. Put in serving bowls and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
The heat intensifies if refrigerated overnight, so if you are making it ahead use only 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne unless you like it spicy!

Kid friendly (not spicy), busy mom version:

Ingredients

1 cup Wholly Guacamole 100% avocado dip
4 tablespoons Mexican hot chocolate mix
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

Put the Wholly Guacamole avocado dip in a food processor, process for about a minute, scrape the sides of the bowl, and process again.
Add the hot chocolate mix and sift the unsweetened cocoa powder into the mixture.
Process until thoroughly mixed. Put in serving bowls and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Even if you make the kid friendly version, this recipe is still dynamite. Knock everyone's socks off with this unexpected flavor combination!

The Circus is Coming to Town Ontario & Quebec #ShrineCircus

2013-06-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Picture used with permission from Shrine Circus

The Circus is Coming to Ontario & Quebec!

This summer do not miss out on the chance to see the Shrine Circus when it comes to your town! This is truly a fun outing that will thrill and amaze the whole family. The Shrine Circus is celebrating the 250 years The Tarzan Zerbini Family Circus has been wowing spectators. The Tarzan Zerbini Family Circus had its humble beginning in 1763 in Paris. Ten generations of the Zerbini family have travelled the world showcasing their talents. Your family will love the show!

Take a peek at the schedule and purchase tickets on the Shrine-Circus website HERE.

Ontario Schedule:
Rexdale (Jun 21-Jul 1)
Brampton (Jul 5-14)
Vaughan (Jul 18-21)
Oakville (Jul 25-28)
Markham (Aug 2-5)
Ottawa (Aug 9-11)

Quebec Schedule:
Pincourt (Aug 15-18)
Lachute (Aug 22-25)
Laval (Sept 12-22)

Purchase GENERAL ADMISSION tickets ONLINE and receive 50% off
GET TWO (2) FOR ONE (1) Tickets by using "FUN" in the coupon code space provided

Come Join the #SHRINECIRCUS Twitter Party June 18th

There will be a twitter party with lots of chances to win one of TEN (10) sets of family four passes to the Ontario and Quebec shows and for the GRAND PRIZE they will be giving away a FAMILY TRIP FOR 4 TO TWO TAILS RANCH in FLORIDA ARV $4,000! Twitter party is open to all, only Canadians (except Quebec) can win the GRAND PRIZE.

Join us at the #ShrineCircus #TwitterParty 06/18 Grand Prize is a Trip to Florida, arv $4,000!! RSVP: http://t.co/ToAQ3MTMKM
— Shannon (@Shandon00) June 15, 2013

Quick & Easy and OH So Cute, Cookie Flowers

2013-06-15T09:08:00.003-07:00

Today my youngest child graduated from Senior Kindergarten. Sob! Sniffle. Every age has its own milestones and accomplishments, it just seems like so many of them happened this year. There was the first invite to a boys party (her boyfriend no less!), first visit from the tooth fairy, first steps to reading and now graduating from kindergarten.

The school hosted a great little ceremony complete with songs written just for us parents. The principal noted that we are only at the beginning! Soon they will be graduating from grade 8, then high school then University! I am sure it will all happen before I realize what the heck happened!

After the ceremony we were treated to some munchies. One of DDs teacher made cute cookie flowers that caught my eye right away. The cookie flowers were so sweet and seemed so easy to make.... I thought "Even I could do this!". This idea is so easy that it probably doesn't require a tutorial. I will just lay it out as it is pretty obvious.

Things you will need:

Sandwich Cookies with Strawberry Center (or similar)
Spearmint Leaves Candies
Skewers
Individual Pop Wrappers
Ribbon

Skewer two leaves then the cookie. TADA! I told you it was easy!

Make a bouquet for your teachers as a thank you!

Artsy Play Wednesday 06/12 Straw Weaving Craft

2013-06-11T23:30:00.000-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by Amanda from Multi Testing Mommy! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is Straw Weaving Craft!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

Win A FREE Week at Little Ray's Zoo Camp #Ottawa

2013-06-11T05:27:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to be sharing this great giveaway with my Ottawa readers. The FREE week of camp can be any week throughout July and August.

Welcome to the Little Ray's Reptile Zoo Summer Camp Giveaway!!

HOSTED BY: CANADIAN BLOG HOUSE

CO-HOSTED BY: OTTAWA MOMMY CLUB ~ SHANNON'S VIEW FROM HERE ~

TALES OF MOMMYHOOD ~ JOURNEYS OF THE ZOO ~

AND ~ COFFEE WITH JULIE ~

WIN A WEEK (FOR ONE CHILD) AT LITTLE RAY'S ZOO CAMP IN OTTAWA!

I love animals. As a child, I wanted to be a veterinarian when I grew up (this is written in one of my old school books). I never did make it to "vet school", however, my passion for animals remains the same. I especially love "critters", animals that make many people a little (or a lot!) squeamish. I adore mice, rats, chinchillas, hedgehogs...and chameleons. In fact, the first real chameleon I ever saw was at one of my favourite zoos - Little Ray's Reptile Zoo here in Ottawa, Canada. It was at Little Ray's where I got to see a chameleon out of its cage and being hand fed. I found it fascinating to watch. Let me tell you, their tongues move at lightning speed! If you have ever been to Little Ray's Reptile Zoo, you'll know that one of their regular features is their feeding shows. These feeding shows allow the audience to sit up close and personal with various creatures, learn a bit about them, and watch them being fed. I've seen Little Ray's staff feed snakes, turtles, chameleons...and even alligators! To enhance the "animal experience", Little Ray's even encourages the audience members to touch (and sometimes hold!) the animals. This is where I (the arachnophobe ) got my first chance to hold a tarantula. This is one thing I thought I would NEVER do. You can read more about Little Ray's Reptile Zoo in my previous blog about themhere.

Did you know that Little Ray's Reptile Zoo offers some fantastic programs and shows outside and away from their zoo? One of these programs is their Little Ray's Zoo Camp. In 2013, Little Ray's Zoo Camps are set to become their best camps ever. Kids attending the interactive camps will get a chance to learn about the care and maintenance of the animals, and so much more. They will even get to learn about the plants and animals that live in the forests around Ottawa. For those of you living in the Ottawa area, but living far from the Little Ray's Reptile Zoo location, they have added a second camp in conjunction with Dovercourt Rec Centre and the Midway - centrally located in Westboro.

By the way, for those of you living in the Hamilton, Ontario region, you are in luck! Little Ray's Reptile Zoo has just opened it's newest zoo on June 8th in Hamilton. Be sure to visit them! They have an opening month special - $9.50 per person from June 8-July 15th.

The great folks at Little Ray's have so generously offered up a fantastic prize for one lucky Canadian Blog House member - a whole week (for one child) at Little Ray's Zoo Camp in Ottawa, valued at $240! What young child wouldn't love to spend a week learning all about great creatures and having the chance to interact with them? This camp sounds pretty fantastic to me! I wonder if Little Ray's would allow this "big kid" to sneak into the camp, lol. Many thanks to Little Ray's Reptile Zoo for helping Canadian Blog House make one little Canadian very happy!

Here's how you can enter to win:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Canadian Blog House did not receive compensation for this post. All opinions are my own.

Artsy Play Wednesday June 5 ~ Daddy & Me Father's Day Footprints

2013-06-05T06:49:00.002-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by Theresa from Capri + 3! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is Daddy & Me Father's Day Footprints!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

P&G Father's Day Giveaway Canada Only

2013-06-05T06:07:00.001-07:00

June is the month that we celebrate Dad. To help celebrate the good people over at P&G have sent over this prize pack for us to give away to one of our readers. Again I have teamed up with the fabulous bloggers from:

Family Food & Travel

Tales of a Ranting Ginger

Frugal Mom, Eh!

P&G Father's Day Giveaway Includes:

Old Spice Wild Collection Body Wash - $4.99

Old Spice Wild Collection APDO - $4.99

Old Spice Wild Collection Body Spray - $4.99

Old Spice Wild Collection Spray Cologne - $8.99

Braun CruZer HD Trimmer - $24.99

Good luck! Ends June 15th, 2013! Open to Canada Only!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MTVs Teen Wolf Season 2 Available NOW on DVD

2013-06-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

MTVs Teen Wolf Season 2 Available May 31st on DVD

Teen Wolf is the hot, supernatural series that follows Scott McCall (Tyler Posey) - a high school student and social outcast that gains supernatural abilities after being bitten by a werewolf!

One of my guilty pleasures is MTV's Teen Wolf. I know I know but I have always been team wolf. I loved Teen Wolf with Michael J. Fox back in the 1980's and still love werewolf movies and shows. This DVD release is perfect timing for the season 3 premier on June 3rd. My PVR and I are ready for that!

Teen Wolf Season 2 DVD contains all 12 episodes on a 3 disc set. Total running time is 516 minutes.

Teen Wolf Season 2 Special Features

Teen Wolf Season 2 at Playfest 2012
Audio Commentary on Omega, Raving and Battlefield
Teen Wolf CGI Reel
Fight Choreography Reel
Alternate, Deleted and Extended Scenes
Alternate Stiles Takes
Gag Reel
Shirtless Montage 2.0
Teen Wolves: Meet the New Pack

The Ultimate Father's Day Giveaway Telus Smartphone Package

2013-05-31T20:58:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is coming up fast and I have partnered with some great Canadian bloggers to bring you a fantastic giveaway. Each of us have contributed an item that we think would make a great Father's Day gift.

Father's Day is almost here and it's time to celebrate those amazing men in our lives. I have so many wonderful memories of Father's Day with my Dad. Fishing, going out for Wings, and watching sports on TV. But, I must admit I have a really hard time picking out a gift for my Dad (and my husband). With this prize pack there is everything your special guy loves - from technology to bacon he's sure to love this Father's Day Giveaway!

Brought to you by four Canadian bloggers - Tales of a Ranting Ginger, Frugal Mom 'Eh, Shannon's View From Here and Family Food and Travel :)

The Ultimate Father's Day Giveaway:

Telus Samsung Galaxy S4 Prize Pack

The Samsung GALAXY S4 is available on TELUS’ blazing fast 4G LTE network for $199 on a 3-year term with a minimum $50 monthly plan before tax or $650 month-to-month.

Samsung Galaxy S4 Features:

Capture life’s meaningful moments: Sporting the world’s first-ever Full HD Super AMOLED display, the Galaxy S 4’s five-inch screen showcases images in stunning resolution. And with a nifty Dual Camera mode (including a 13-megapixel rear camera), you can capture life’s moments in as many ways as you can think of – and enjoy them seamlessly through the TELUS LTE network experience while you’re at it!

Effortless innovation: Features like Smart Pause, Air View, Air Gesture and Optical Reader detect your motions, face and voice to enable screen control with no need for finger touch activation (and you can use the screen with gloves, too!)

Group Play: Like to share what you love? Connect with those around you to play and co-create content, without the need for a Wi-Fi connection or cell signal.

Toss it in your bag, worry-free: Constructed with Corning’s Gorilla® Glass 3, this phone is as beautiful as it is tough, and can withstand the daily bump and grind.

Take care of your health and well-being with S Health: A number of built-in sensors monitor users’ health, surroundings and more. You can track and manage your health with the S-Health system’s apps such as food diary, exercise diary and sleep monitor.

Upgrading to the Samsung GALAXY S4 has never been easier…

TELUS is making it even easier for customers to get into the latest, greatest wireless devices with the introduction of a trade-in program. TELUS’ new trade-in program rewards customers with instant in-store credit for their used device while giving them a chance to dispose of their electronic waste safely and smartly.

Contest details:

If the “winner” is already a TELUS customer, you just need to transfer your number over to the new device. This can be done online or over the phone with an agent for a minimal fee.

DK Books (Motorcycle and Aviation)

$50 Card Swap Credit

Starbucks Reusable Cup

$20 Rona Gift Certificate

Bacon Man Crate

This contest is open to residents of Canada only and ends June 14, 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Kellogg's Rice Krispies Brown Rice Gluten FREE Recipe

2013-05-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

Ooey gooey and crunchy. The perfect after school snack my kids declared. I was sent a box of the NEW Rice Krispies* Brown Rice Gluten Free cereal to try out some of Kellogg's gluten free recipes.

I served up the gluten-free version of the cereal that talks to my kids for breakfast. They knew something was different but kept eating away. Content. The new Kellogg's Rice Krispies Brown Rice Gluten FREE cereal passed the first test with my family. Now on to the recipes. I was hopeful that the Brown Rice Gluten FREE cereal would be a hit in a gluten-free recipe. I scoured the recipes available at RiceKrispies.ca and found one that was easy (3 ingredients people!) and sounded yummy! Here is the recipe I chose to try out!

Gluten Free LUNCHBOX COCONUT SURPRISE

INGREDIENTS

4 cups Rice Krispies* Brown Rice Gluten Free cereal
1/2 cup Shredded coconut
1/2 cup Chopped pecans (optional, I opted out)
1 can Sweetened condensed milk

PREPARATION

Regular Method
1. Line 2 L (8") square baking pan with foil or waxed paper; lightly grease bottom and sides.

2. In large mixing bowl, combine crushed cereal, coconut and pecans. Add condensed milk and mix well. Spread evenly in prepared pan.

3. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for metals pans or 160°C (325°F) for glass pans, 25-30 minutes or until top is just golden (do not over-bake). Cool 10 minutes. Turn out and remove foil or paper. Cool completely on rack.

4. Cut into bars or use cookie cutters for interesting shapes. Store covered at room temperature.

† Since product formulation vary from one brand to another, be sure to always read the ingredient listings to be sure that the brands you selected are gluten free.
In keeping with good allergy practices, we remind you to be aware of allergens and to check labels on any packaged goods used. This recipe has been tested using Kellogg’s* products. Results with other products may vary.

More about Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is the most common chronic disease in the world. An estimated 1 in every 100 to 200 people are affected by this disease in North America according to Health Canada( http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/minist/messages/_2013/2013_05_01b-eng.php ). As many as 300,000 Canadians could have the disease, however, many remain undiagnosed.

I am part of the Kellogger's Network and was sent product to try. All opinions are my own as always.

Artsy Play Wednesday 05/29 Foam Flowers Bouquet

2013-05-29T06:33:00.001-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by Amanda from Multi Testing Mommy! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is a Foam Flowers Bouquet.!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

Roll Up French Raisin Bread Lots of Flavours

2013-05-27T06:15:00.000-07:00

I love that this recipe is quick and easy for a busy morning. Everyone gets the flavours that they want too! This is more a method than a recipe.

Roll Up French Raisin Bread with Lots of Flavours

Cream Cheese
Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices
Sliced Fruit (optional)

Melted Butter
Sugar and Cinnamon

First you will want to roll out the slices of Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread with a rolling pin and cut off the crusts.

Next you will spread cream cheese over the entire piece of bread. I had 3 kinds of cream cheese including regular, strawberry and chocolate flavoured. You can prepare them with just the cream cheese or add some fruit that is sliced thinly on the edge only. Another variation is to use some jam, I really liked it with strawberry jam. Great for those mornings that you do not have fresh fruit on hand.

Roll the bread up starting with the edge that has the fruit or jam on it.

Spread some of the melted butter on the rolled french bread. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. I just eyeballed this part because some family members like more cinnamon than others.

Bake at 400' for 10 minutes. Enjoy!

Monsters University - It All Began Here ~ New Clip To Share

2013-05-24T10:49:00.002-07:00

Anyone excited as we are about this movie?? The girls and I are anxiously awaiting the release of Monsters University - It All Began Here. I can hardly wait for June 21st! I really hope it comes to our local drive-in so that the kids can enjoy their movie (oh I will enjoy it too!) then they will sleep for the second show. That could totally happen!

Synopsis of Monsters University - It All Began Here

Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer. The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right.

K9 Advantix ~ End Worries With One Drop ~ Giveaway

2013-05-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

Bayer Animal Health Infographic

I was lucky enough to have a chat with Jarod Miller celebrity pet expert earlier this month. We discussed ways to keep your dog safe from ticks and Lyme disease this summer. I am sharing this infographic with you in hopes it will help you know more about ticks and Lyme disease. Last year our dog Bella tested negative for Lyme. After being tested we discovered a tick on her and quickly removed it. Well this years test for Lyme came back positive. We are now on an aggressive antibiotic regimen in hopes of getting it before it spreads to her kidneys. I am hopeful.

BAYER K9 ADVANTIX® – END WORRIES WITH ONE DROP

Bayer innovation has developed one product specifically for dogs to protect against all external parasites, including ticks. Bayer K9 Advantix provides dog owners with:
o Waterproof topical protection against ticks and fleas through a combination of two active
ingredients, imidacloprid and permethrin
o Attacks parasites’ nerve cells, paralyzing and killing themon contact
o A solution that kills ticks, including Deer ticks (vector of Lyme disease), American dog ticks (vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever), Brown dog ticks (vector of Ehrlichiosis) and Lone Star ticks (vector of Ehrlichiosis) for up to four weeks with each application
o A solution that kills fleas on dogs within 24 hours and continues to protect for a month

Fast, convenient, and effective, K9 Advantix allows dogs to enjoy worry-free outdoor fun.

Enter to win K9 Advantix to keep your pet safe this summer. Open to Canada only.

Entry -Form

Renting a Car in Florida

2013-05-23T10:33:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons as to why a person may choose to rent a car. From family vacations to business trips, no matter the reason, there are definitely advantages gained when renting a car.

Some people live in large metropolitan areas, meaning they do not necessarily need a vehicle to travel to and from local places, including restaurants, to visit friends and family and places of employment. So, what does a person do when they need to go on a long trip and are in need of a vehicle? Or, what is a person to do when his or her car breaks down? Well, it can be of the utmost benefit to rent a car.

Renting a car allows a person to avoid putting wear and tear on their own car. Also, since most cars rented through Car Rental FLL agencies are new models, they tend to get very good gas mileage, which is very beneficial when taking long trips.

Another great reason to rent a car is because if it breaks down, a person won't have to worry about paying for the repair expenses. Instead, a new vehicle can be rented. For more info relating to Car Rental FLL, click here.

Review & Giveaway Parker Urban Premium Ebony Finish Pen Perfect for Father's Day Gift

2013-05-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

PARKER has been creating pens that redefine writing for 125 years. When the PARKER Urban pen arrived for us to review, my husband quickly claimed it as his own and I barely was able to get a picture of it. I have not seen it since. When I asked him what he thought of the pen, he related this story to me.

Hubs works on a busy construction site as the lead Superintendent. While showing his visiting boss around the site hubs assistant, who is an engineering student, needed a pen and made a grab for hubs new PARKER Urban pen. Hubs instinctively slapped the assistants hand and said "Not that pen!". The assistant looked stunned as well as the visiting boss. Hubs' boss took the pen and told the assistant, "When you graduate from Engineering and get your first big job, you too can have a beauty of a pen like this. THEN you will understand." True story.

Parker Urban Pen makes the perfect gift.

Needless to say my husband loves this pen. The mix of style and ergonomics is a perfect balance. With Father's Day just around the corner this pen would make a prefect gift. This pen would also make a great gift for any upcoming graduates. Where image is everything and quality is key, the Urban is an outstanding gift for men leading a modern life.

"The Parker Urban, along with many other models of Parker pens, is available at fine writing specialty stores throughout Canada and at Reids, Basics, Wallacks, Novexco, Boutique Du Stylo, Le Parchemin, and Duly Noted. Prices range from $32 to $100, depending on the model of choice."

For more information, visit www.parkerpen.com.

Great news! I have a PARKER Urban pen for one of you to WIN! Open to Canada only.

Good luck!

Entry -Form

Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam Giveaway and Video! #IAMSSoGood

2013-05-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam happening at Echo Beach in Toronto? It is an outdoor concert that is doggie friendly. You and your pooch can come out and enjoy some great classical music performed by a 42 piece orchestra. The orchestra will be performing music created specifically for canine hearing. The Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam is a one of a kind event that is guaranteed fun for everyone in your family!

Event details:
When:
Saturday, June 8, 2013
4:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Where:
Echo Beach
999 Lakeshore Blvd. West
Toronto, Ontario, M6K 3L3

Tickets for the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam are available through Ticketmaster.

Social Media Links:
Visit Iams on Facebook: www.facebook.com/iams
Follow Iams on Twitter: @Iams

Great news. I have a prize pack to give away to one lucky winner!

All you have to do is comment below letting me know what you thought of the video. One winner will be chosen June 3rd and emailed (so make sure I get your email address!). Open to Canadian residents.

The winner will recieve the following prize pack valued at over $60!

Family pack of four tickets to the Iams SO GOOD! Doggie Jam in Toronto
Two product vouchers to try the new Iams SO GOOD! dog food

Good luck!

Artsy Play Wednesday 05/22 Garden Marker Kid Friendly Craft

2013-05-22T03:00:00.001-07:00

Hosted by:

Capri + 3

Multi-Testing Mommy

Shannon’s View From Here

Baby Giveaways Galore

Welcome to this new weekly feature on Shannon's View from Here! This is going to be co-hosted by myself and three great new blogger friends of mine. Every Wednesday we will highlight all of your lovely crafts that you have been doing with your children. Each Wednesday one of use four bloggers will highlight one of our own artsy play craft that you can enjoy with your kiddos. I look forward to seeing what you are all up to!

This weeks project is by yours truly! The featured Artsy Play Wednesday craft is a DIY Garden Marker!

Enjoy the time spent at play with your children and art. Don't forget to link up!

If you are linking up today, we would love it if you could copy the following code below onto your linked up post:

Check out our Pinterest Board where we will be listing all of your amazing ideas.

DIY Garden Marker Kid Friendly Craft

2013-05-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

I love this craft for two reasons. The first reason is because it uses items I already have around the house and the second reason is because it teaches the kids how to reuse an item.

Garden Marker Made from Pop Bottles

You will need:

Pop Bottles
Skewers
Corrugated cardboard
Paint
Glue

First cut off the bottom of the pop bottle.

Paint the inside of the cut off bottom.

Cut a small circle out of the corrugated cardboard.

Push the skewer into to cardboard.

Glue the cardboard to the bottom of the cut off pop bottle.

Place in your garden and enjoy.

I found this craft in my kids favorite book called "Outdoor Crafts". It has kept my kids busy for hours. The book suggests reusing a pizza base for outdoor use as it is waterproof. I am using mine indoors so I opted for what I already had.

Disney Juniors Doc McStuffins: Time For Your Checkup DVD Review & Giveaway

2013-05-21T10:38:00.001-07:00

2012's #1 cable TV series in Kids 2-5, "Doc McStuffins" tells the story of a nurturing six-year-old girl who heals stuffed animals and broken toys out of her backyard playhouse clinic. Assisting Doc at the clinic are her trusty team of lovable stuffed animals including: Stuffy, an overly proud dragon; Lambie, her cuddly best friend lamb; Hallie, a jolly and caring hippo nurse; and Chilly, a snowman who spends a lot of time getting check-ups at the clinic. Whether it's a case of loose stitching, low batteries or a blow-up toy who has sprung a leak, Doc and her pals are always there to lend a helping hand, while imparting to young viewers the importance of taking care of oneself and others.

My kindergartner LOVES Doc McStuffins. I can now recite this whole DVD... by heart... for real. That is okay though. I like Doc McStuffins too. When my daughter first watched this DVD she did not move or say a word. This is proof that this is her new favorite DVD. There were a few giggles too. My daughter has watched this DVD numerous times and loves it more and more.

Here are some fun activities to share with your little one. Help Doc diagnose her patients with a matching game, see what's hidden in the stars by connecting the dots, build your own playhouse then kick back with some coloring sheets featuring Doc and her friends!

Enter to win a copy of Disney Juniors Doc McStuffins: Time For Your Checkup DVD of your very own! Good luck!

Entry -Form

Lady Speed Stick Don't Sweat it! Handle it! #DontSweatIt Coupon & Giveaway

2013-05-20T06:14:00.004-07:00

Lady Speed Stick Power boasts "24-hour non-stop wetness and odour protection" and I was happy to test that claim. I was sent some Lady Speed Stick to try out for myself. Luckily, I did not encounter any commercial worthy sweat inducing awkward moments but I was surprised at how much I liked the Lady Speed Stick Power Fresh Fusion Gel. It has been a long time since I have bought any type of gel antipersperant. I remember that I was not a fan of gel antipersperant from the last time I bought it. I *think* the last time I bought gel antipersperant was close to 20 years ago and I am happy to say that this gel is nothing like that gel! I can say that Lady Speed Stick PowerTM Fresh Fusion Gel did not let me down and lasts for the full 24 hours. I am happy to report that I did stay dry throughout my trial.

This is the first of the two samples I tried. It is closest to my regular Speed Stick that I normally use. The Lady Speed Stick Power comes in four great scents including Cool Breeze, Powder Burst, Satin Pear and Fresh Fusion Gel. I really liked the Cool Breeze scent. Another great thing about both of these antipersperants is that it went on, and remained, invisible. It is the time of year for cute little tops and I do not want to have any white lines on my tank tops.

Limited time Lady Speed Stick Coupon Available

You will want to print off this great Lady Speed Stick coupon before you go shopping. The coupon will save you $2.00 OFF when you purchase ANY TWO (2) Lady Speed Stick* or Speed Stick* Power™ antiperspirants 45 g - 85 g. Hurry the coupon will expire on May 25,2013.

Have you had a moment that has tested your antipersperant? How about a job interview, first date or a big exam? There are some great commercials from Lady Speed Stick that focus on just that and are quite funny and cute. Here is a fun commercial showing an example of how Lady Speed Stick helped one woman stay cool in an awkward situation.

There is a also great giveaway that you can enter to win 1 of 6 Lady Speed Stick gift basket!

The Don't Sweat it! Handle It! basket includes the following:

Lady Speed Stick Fruity Melon 45g
Lady Speed Stick Stainguard Daringly Fresh 65g
Lady Speed Stick Power Cool Breeze 45g
Men Speed Stick Power Fresh 14g
Men Speed Stick Irish Spring Original Deodarant 92g

Contest is open to Canadian residents only.

Good luck!

Tell me... what makes you sweat?
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Colgate. As always, all opinions are my own.

Chocolate Philly Perfect for Breakfast in Bed #PhillyChocolate

2013-05-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

I love chocolate. I love cream cheese. When I first saw the new Philadelphia Chocolate, I stopped in my tracks, and the ideas started flowing. Of course my first thought was how this will make chocolate cheesecake making SO much easier, but then my mind started thinking of other chocolate Philly filled ideas. My youngest daughters loves the strawberry Philly on her bagels so the chocolate Philly would be considered a divine treat! She will not know that there is the same dairy goodness as original Philly. Then I thought about one of our favorite quick snack and breakfast ideas. Rolled french toast! So off I went to the kitchen.

Scroll down for recipe

Have you noticed Chocolate Philly’s facebook Breakfast in Bed “Likes” Challenge? You can find out more about this fun challenge on Philadelphia Cream Cheese's facebook page . Make sure you like Philly on facebook because that is where you will find out all about a limited time coupon that will be available starting May 21,2013. You will want to keep your eye out for that one.

This will be my request for breakfast in bed.

Roll Up French Bread with Lots of Flavours

Cream Cheese
Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread Slices
Sliced Fruit (optional)

Melted Butter
Sugar and Cinnamon

First you will want to roll out the slices of Sun-Maid Raisin Cinnamon Swirl Bread and cut off the crusts.

Next you will spread cream cheese over the entire piece of bread. I had 3 kinds of cream cheese including regular, strawberry and chocolate flavoured. You can prepare them with just the cream cheese or add some fruit that is sliced thinly on the edge only. Another variation is to use some jam, I really liked it with strawberry jam. Great for those mornings that you do not have fresh fruit on hand.

Yummy with strawberries rolled in too!

Roll the bread up starting with the edge that has the fruit or jam on it.

Spread some of the melted butter on the rolled french bread. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. I just eyeballed this part because some family members like more cinnamon than others.

Bake at 400' for 10 minutes. Enjoy!