Town & Baby Blog- Modern Mama Spruce Grove

Hottest Tot Products

2012-05-01T22:10:00.000-06:00

It’s here, and it’s superb! It’s our second annual Hottest Tot Products event in Edmonton! Come prepared to pick your favourite product and take it home!

We have rounded up all the best and hottest products for pregnancy and beyond for you to select from. Everyone goes home with one Hot Product!

Wednesday, May 30^th. 7-9pm.
Century Grill- 3975 Calgary Trail

Tickets Sales:
Membership Perks Cardholders- Wednesday, May 2 at 9am.
General Public- Wednesday, May 9 at 9am.
Sponsor Ticket (no product take home)- May 2 at 9am.

VIP ticket- $95
Regular ticket- $75
Sponsor ticket (no prodcut take home)- $35

Ticket includes: one wine/beer/non-alcoholic beverage, scrumptious appetizers, Amy Lou Boutique swag bag, and one Hottest Tot Product to take home! Purchase your tickets here!

Only 10 VIP tickets available: includes early arrival, first selection of numbers #1-20, and a LOADED Amy Lou Boutique VIP bag (see below) valued at over $150.

Space is limited to the number of Hot Products we have to give away! We have only ONE of each product and only one ticket sold for per product available! Everyone leaves with a Hot Product!

How does it work?
Each attendee will arrive to enjoy a drink and scrumptious appetizers at this one-of-a-kind cocktail party! Each mama will draw a number, and that is the order in which you will hand select your chosen Hottest Tot Product to take home!

What do we have to choose from?
An amazing list of 4o Hottest Tot Products (below), all of which will be available to choose from at the event! Follow our Hottest Tot Products board on Pinterest!

Hottest Tot Products:
Watch here as we update our links DAILY!
Nibble Bib & Cozy Sleep Sack ($57)- aden + anais
Organic Teether, Lille Throw Blankie, & Be Quick ($68)- BEBE au LAIT, ZooLEY by RiNGLEY, & Ju-Ju-Be
Piggyback Rider ($99)- Adventure Gear Canada
Lovey's Products ($51)- Bumbleebee Kids
Personalized Lunch Box (with drink holder) & Water Bottle ($80)- CHILDish
Olli Booster ($120)- Clek Inc
Snap & Go Buckle-Tai carrier ($135)- Cosy Baby Happy Mommy
Coverboo Nursing Scarf x2 ($60)- Coverboo Couture
Ergobaby Carrier ($150)- Ergobaby
Gro-Clock, MY WEEK calendar, Little Lasso ($90)- Firefly Baby Shop
Grow-With-Me Bubble Dress ($45)- Golly Gee Baby
Aqueduck, Nose Frida, Hold-On Handles ($58)- Happy Baby Daily Needs
Cocoon Stroller ($499)- Joovy
Hook Portable Chair ($70)- Joovy
Nook Highchair ($150)- Joovy
Personalized CD's (3-pack) ($66)- Just 4 Me Songs
Cuddle Bubble Hoody (lime) ($48)- Keylime Athletic Wear
Littlelife Animal Day Pack (ladybug & turtle) ($62)- Mountain Equipment Co-op
Littlelife Freedom Child Carrier ($225)- Mountain Equipment Co-op
MEC Cloudburst Rain Jacket ($54)- Mountain Equipment Co-op
MEC Wanderer Tent ($229)- Mountain Equipment Co-op
Natural Skin Care & Nursing Cover ($75)- Peanut Baby Wares
Peekaboo Beans Boy & Girl Outfits (size 4) ($265)- Peekaboo Beans, Stylist Stacy Jackson
Sachay Satchel ($150)- Petunia Pickle Bottom
Tour Guide Carrier ($110)- Petunia Pickle Bottom
Snuggin Go ($46)- POM Kids and Bumblebee Kids
Creativity Cruiser ($80)- Scandinavian Child Intl
Chewbeads bracelet & necklace ($45)- Sprogs
Ah Goo Baby Plush Pad ($46)- Sweet Momma Spa
G-Luxe Stroller ($150)- Uppa Baby
Fancy Schmancy Blanket (with booties) ($90)- Winifred Babies

Amy Lou VIP Bag:
1-hour Massage ($80)- Bearspaw Chiropractic & Massage
Bibagogo ($29.99)- Bibagogo
Munch ($8)- Boon
Chopstick Friends ($8)- Bumblebee Kids
The Mommy Hook ($8)- The Mommy Hook
3-pack Wash Pads ($12)- My Mom & Me Designs
Germz B'Gone Hand Sanitizer ($6)- Peanut Baby Wares
City Grip ($14.99)- Distributed by POM and exclusively sold at Bumblebee Kids
This LIST is growing! Watch here for more items daily!

Our Event Sponsors:

Join us May 30th for the Hottest Tot Products event!

~Josline

2012-04-30T00:36:00.000-06:00

Modern Mama is your modern, mom-focused, moms group! It’s about “getting moms out of the house”. All events are small, private and led by an expert, since 2008. Have a look at what’s coming up in Spruce Grove!

{one} The Home Event

Join us Wednesday, May 9th from 7-9pm for a private event focusing on all things HOME! We’ll have designers and home organizers on hand offering tips and answering all your questions. We’ll also hear from the Backup Mama herself about how to keep the house clean… with kids! Enjoy wine and cupcakes while you mingle, decorate, and more! For more information and to register click here.

{two} Infant & Child CPR/First Aid

Join us on Thursday, May 10th from 10-11:30am at the Tri-Leisure Center for the “basics” of infant & child CPR and first aid. Make this a “morning out” for mommy while we learn AND socialize. Cupcakes will be on hand from Sugar Leaf Cupcakes as well as refreshments! Keep baby near you during the event or take advantage of the TLC’s childcare service. Check it out here!

{three} Essential Series on Parenting

Join us May 27th at 9:30am for “Building a Healthy Parent & Child Bond”, the first in our 3-part Essential Series on parenting topics! Irene Haire, Masters in Counselling and Registered Provisional Psychologist, will give us tips and strategies to build healthy attachments, which in turn help children develop trust, self-control and problem-solving skills. This event takes place at Twisted Yogurt and tickets include the expert speaker, frozen yogurt, and coffee! Register here!

{four} Hottest Tot Products Event

It’s here, and it’s superb! It’s our second annual Hottest Tot Products event! Come prepared to pick your favourite product and take it home! We have rounded up all the best and hottest products for pregnancy and beyond for you to select from. Everyone goes home with one Hot Product! Join us May 30th at 7pm at the Century Grill. Stay tuned to our pinterest board and website for more details! Register here on May 2 (Perks Cardholders) or May 9 (General Public)!

{five} Mama Needs a Babysitter

"Mama Needs a Babysitter" is Tuesday June 5th from 7-9 pm at Bellies in Spruce Grove. Do you need an occasional babysitter? You've come to the right place! It’s an evening of babysitter-speed-dating. Come out to Bellies to meet great babysitters, shop, and enjoy a glass of wine and sweets! Space is limited. Join the event here and never go without a date night again!

Let's meet! Let’s get a coffee! Let's get out of the house... with baby in tow!

~Josline

2012-04-22T22:03:00.001-06:00

Essential Series: Building a Healthy Parent & Child Bond

Join us on May 27th at Twisted Yogurt, Spruce Grove for “Building a Healthy Parent & Child Bond”, the first in our 3-part Essential Series on parenting topics!

This parenting workshop is offered by Irene M. Haire, Masters in Counselling and Registered Provisional Psychologist. Irene will be speaking on “healthy” parent-child attachment and how to build a healthy “bond” with your child(ren). The quality of the relationship between parents and young children is one of the most powerful factors in a child's growth and development. "Parents with children of any age will benefit from this information", say Irene. Irene will give us tips and strategies to build this healthy attachment, which in turn helps children develop trust, self-control and problem-solving skills. Irene will hold a Q & A session to follow!

Irene Haire has worked as a therapist and group facilitator since 2003. She completed her practicum at the Support Network, Children, Adolescent, Family Mental Health (CASA, 2008), and various schools within Edmonton. Irene is also a Pharmacist, and has been since 1978. She works with adults, adolescents, and children, working with individuals, couples, and facilitating groups. She graduated with a Masters in Counselling with an Art Therapy specialization in 2010 and is currently a Registered Provisional Psychologist. For more information and to check out her Parenting Workshop, go to www.drsgaryjoannmeierspsychologists.com.

Our venue is the YUMMYlicious, Twisted Yogurt in Spruce Grove! Twisted yogurt is all about exploring your creative side, because you get to create your own frozen masterpiece. You start by choosing one of eight flavours of fresh, natural non-fat frozen yogurt and then add on as many of over 50 toppings as you can load into your bowl. By making it yourself, it's always exactly the way you like it! Load up your frozen yogurt with fresh fruit and cereal to start your Sunday morning with us!

Come Twist up some yummy fun!

There is no childcare for this event, but you are welcome to bring your pre-mobile babies.

In addition to our expert speaker, cost includes yogurt (up to $8), coffee and bottled water. Register for Building a Healthy Parent & Child Bond here!

Five Things: Now it's Personal

2012-04-13T13:56:00.000-06:00

My family has this "thing" for personalized items. I have t-shirts with childhood pictures of myself on them. Every Christmas someone gets a personalized picture mug. We even have a Christmas plate for Santa's cookies with each of us on it! So, when I found Make-A-Ball on twitter, I was ecstatic! Here are five things I love about Make-A-Ball.

{one} Online
Make-A-Ball is an online site where you can create personalized sports balls! Online means I can shop from the comfort of my home while the kids are nestled in their beds! Simply create an account, create your ball, and check out securely with Pay Pal. Don't worry if you don't finish your project, it's stored in your "locker" for you to work on anytime!

{two} Unique
Looking for a unique birthday gift or keepsake for your little all-star? Have a sports fanatic in the house? Personalized items always say, "I put a lot of thought into this"! Make-A-Ball items make great keepsakes for your little ones to remember that first goal, sports teams, all-star game, and more! I personalized a football for my son Jackson as a gift from the Easter Bunny!

{three} Fundraise
Looking for a different way to fundraise? Make money for your little ones school, troop, or team by doing a Make-A-Ball fundraiser. It's simple... sign-up for group sales and receive a voucher code to give out to fundraising participants. Participants log into the site, enter the code, design their own personalized sports balls... and Make-A-Ball gives you the profits!

{four} Variety
Make-A-Ball has 7 personalized sports "balls' to choose from! Personalize a baseball, football, basketball, soccer ball, softball, volleyball, and for us Canucks... a hockey puck! The balls range in price from $25-60 and items take about a month for production and shipping to Canada. Jackson loved his football for Easter! I love that he'll have it forever!

Make-A-Ball allows you to be as creative as you'd like! Choose from 2 creative options, "super easy" or "super flexible". In "Super Easy" you simply upload your photos and enter your text onto pre-designed balls. "Super Flexible" allows you to choose a background, add clip-art, upload your images, and add text. Either way, you'll still look like a creative genius with your one-of-a-kind ball! Looking for some inspiration? Check out this gallery.

{five} Customer Service
I was so impressed with level of customer service from Make-A-Ball! I'm not super creative and I tend to have LOTS of questions. On the site you'll find how-to-do video demos, a "LIVE HELP" button to answer any questions, an extensive FAQ's section, and if all else fails, a "Please feel free to contact us by email" button.

Go check it out... and let me know what you think of Make-A-Ball! Play around, design a ball; and if you'd like to order, use this coupon code to save 20% (ball only): MAB.2012.20DOWN.

Football for this post provided by www.makeaball.com.

Five Things: Sugar Leaf Cupcakes

2012-04-09T23:07:00.000-06:00

Five Things you NEED to know about Sugar Leaf Cupcakes!

{one} Local and Family-Owned
Sugar Leaf Cupcakes is a "family owned and operated" business in Stony Plain! Owner Linsday Stupar grew up in Stony Plain with her family and opened Sugar Leaf October 18, 2010. Lindsay's inspiration came from her grandmothers and mom who loved to bake and cook! "My mom made cakes for everyone's birthday, anniversaries, weddings, etc. while I was growing up", says Lindsay. Lindsay's mom taught her how to bake and decorate at a young age and today helps her run the store.

{two} Fresh Favorites
Sugar Leaf offers 11 delectable cupcakes everyday! All cupcakes are baked fresh every morning! Using fresh ingredients like lemons, limes, and carrots, Lindsay makes "from scratch" cake and icing! The 10 daily favorites are the Sugar Leaf, Coconut Bliss, Plain Jane, The Duchess, Elvis, Cookies & Cream, Freckled Lemonade, The Brunette, Chocolate Espresso, The Redhead, and the Banana Split (my personal favorite)!

{three} Cupcake of the Month
What's cupcake #11 you ask? To add to the already delicious menu, every month there is a feature cupcake that suits the month. March's cupcake of the month was the Mountain Dew- a lemon lime cupcake infused with REAL Mountain Dew pop! April's cupcake is the Honey Maple- a honey maple cupcake with honey apricot cream cheese buttercream! Can you say YUMMY?!

{four} Custom Orders

With the slogan, "creating all things cake", don't forget about their custom cakes for any occasion! Sugar Leaf makes custom cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, too! You can see the custom creations posted weekly by following them on Facebook. If you (or your little one) can dream it, Lindsay can make it!

{five} Open Daily
Last minute party? Need dessert for a playdate? Did your personal creation flop (that's me)? Sugar Leaf is open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 11am-6pm, Thursdays 11am-7pm, Fridays 11am-6pm and Saturdays 11am-5pm. This means you can get fresh and unique cupcakes last minute, and still look like you had it planned for days! And with late night Thursdays, you can stop in after dinner!

At Sugar Leaf Cupcakes, taste and quality are number one; looks and a great design are the cherry on top!

Shop Local! Play Local! Eat local! ~Josline

Logo and design credit: Manta Creatives

Mama Needs a Babysitter!

2012-04-02T00:26:00.000-06:00

"Mama Needs a Babysitter" is Tuesday June 5th from 7-9 pm at Bellies in Spruce Grove. Do you need an occasional babysitter? You’ve come to the right place! It’s an evening of babysitter-speed-dating. Come out to Bellies to meet great babysitters, shop, and enjoy a glass of wine and sweets!

Come meet great babysitters, all of which:

are experienced with child care and some hold safety certifications
are able to provide their own transportation (public transit included)
are willing to travel within Spruce Grove and area
are over 17 years of age
range from high school students to university students, child care workers or full-time nannies
want occasional sitting (particularly evening/weekend

What’s included:

- information sheet for each Babysitter in attendance
- ‘How to Hire a Babysitter’ article
- at-home ‘for the sitter’ reference sheet
- wine & sweet treats and a fun social night out with other moms
- face to face casual interviews with each sitter

Children are welcome! We understand that you’re trying to find a babysitter! Note however, that nanny service is not available at this event. There are typically between 5-10 babysitters in attendance.

What is NOT included:

- no pre-screening or reference checks
- Modern Mama assumes NO liability for hiring and working with any Babysitter met at the event
- no set wages were agreed upon, it is up to you and your babysitter to agree on an hourly rate. It was suggested to these women that the average rate for this area, based on experience, number of children and number of hours (and night vs. day) is $8-$12 per hour.
- Modern Mama is not an agency, we do not provide ongoing referrals to babysitters

Please Note: this event is about meeting sitters face to face, and it is just as important for the sitters to meet you, as it is for you to meet them. Please understand that we cannot send you sitter information if you are not attending in person.

Space is limited. Cost is $40 ($35 for Perks Cardholders). Register here!

Here's what we were talking about on CTV!

2012-03-22T21:56:00.002-06:00

Let’s play! Let’s get out! Let’s get on the go!

Looking to get out of the house? Wondering where to go and what to do? Want something different each week? “Mama & Tots… ready, set, go!” is a 6-week” on the go” program for moms and their tots aged 1-4 years. Moms and tots meet on Thursday mornings at various times and locations in and around Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Edmonton.

Our next program starts Wednesday, April 4th! Space is limited to 15 moms! Register today! Missed classes can be made-up in our summer or fall session.

Moms and tots will enjoy story time, nature, music, swimming, and lots of PLAY! We visit Boston Pizza and the Public Library in Spruce Grove, Java Mama Cafe in St. Albert, and the John Janzen Nature Center and Moves & Grooves in Edmonton, and our finale is at the TLC pool!

Every mom will also receive a digital MOMento photo taken by Kokoo Photography- a professional photo of you and your little one(s)! We also have giveaways from these mom and child-friendly businesses- Bumblebee Kids, CHILDishes, Coverboo Couture, Firefly Baby Shop, Gymboree Play & Music, and Just 4 Me Songs!

St. Albert and North Edmonton mamas… you can also check out the Mama & Tots series with Modern Mama St. Albert!

Although the program is geared towards ages 1-3, ANYONE aged 0-5 is welcome! The cost is $75 per mom and (1) tot, $70 for Perks cardholders, and $25 for any additional children (1-5). Additional children under 1 are no charge! Register here!

Join us… on the move!

Have questions? Email Josline at josline@modernmama.ca. We are excited to host this series in part with Melissa of My Mom and Me Designs!

Thanks for having us CTV Morning Live! I always have a blast!

~Josline

CTV: January, 2012
CTV: December 30, 2011

2012-03-19T00:00:00.006-06:00

Let's play! Let's get out! Let's get on the go!

Looking to get out of the house? Wondering where to go and what to do? Want something different each week? "Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!" is a 6-week" on the go" program for moms and their tots aged 1-4 years. Moms and tots meet on Thursday mornings at various times and locations in and around Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Edmonton.

Our next program starts Wednesday, April 4th! Space is limited to 15 moms! Register today! Missed classes can be made-up in our summer or fall session.

Moms and tots will enjoy story time, nature, music, swimming, and lots of PLAY! We visit Boston Pizza and the Public Library in Spruce Grove, Java Mama Cafe in St. Albert, and the John Janzen Nature Center and Moves & Grooves in Edmonton, and our finale is at the TLC pool! Each mom will also receive a MOMento photo- a professional photo of you and your little one(s)!

Although the program is geared towards ages 1-3, ANYONE aged 0-5 is welcome! The cost is $75 per mom and (1) tot, $70 for Perks cardholders, and $25 for any additional children (1-5). Additional children under 1 are no charge! Register here!

Join us... on the move!

Have questions? Email Josline at josline@modernmama.ca. This program is hosted in part with Melissa of My Mom and Me Designs!

Five Things Friday: Upcoming Events

2012-03-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

Modern Mama is your modern, mom-focused, moms group! It’s about “getting moms out of the house”. All events are small, private and led by an expert, since 2008. Have a look at what’s coming up!

{one} Playgroup Mini-Mixer
Looking for a playdate group? Wondering how to meet moms and what to do? Join us Thursday, March 22 from 10-11:30am at Time Out Beauty Retreat for a "Playgroup Mini-Mixer"! You'll get some "time out" with on site childcare, self care tips, and of course MEET moms for future playdates! For more information and to register click here.

{two} Modern Playdate- Cafe O'Play
Join the mamas of My Mom & Me Design and Modern Mama Spruce Grove on Monday, March 26th at 10am (or whenever you get out the door) at Cafe O'Play in Edmonton. This is a pay-as-you-go event! Cost is $6 for children 1 year and older. Perks Cardholders save 10% off your entrance fee! Purchase a Modern Mama Perks Card here. This is a non-registered Facebook event.

{three} Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!
Looking to get out of the house with your little one? Wondering where to go and what to do? Want something different each week? "Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!" is a 6-week "on the go" program for moms and tots aged 0-4 years. We meet on Wednesday mornings at various times and locations in and around Spruce Grove, St. Albert and Edmonton. We are Spruce Grove's original "mobile" tots group! Our next program starts April 4th! Space is limited to 15 moms! Register here!

{four} The Home Event Join us Wednesday, May 9th from 7-9pm at Shelly’s Finds for a private event focusing on all things HOME! We’ll have designers and home organizers on hand offering tips and answering all your questions. We’ll also hear from the Backup Mama herself about how to keep the house clean… with kids! Enjoy wine and cupcakes while you shop, mingle, decorate, and more! For more information and to register click here.

{five} Infant & Child CPR/First Aid Join us on Thursday, May 10th from 10-11:30am at the Tri-Leisure Center for the “basics” of infant & child CPR and first aid. Make this a “morning out” for mommy while we learn AND mingle. Cupcakes will be on hand from Sugar Leaf Cupcakes as well as refreshments! Keep baby near you during the event or take advantage of the TLC’s childcare service. Check it out here!

Let's meet! Let’s get a coffee! Let's get out of the house... with baby in tow!
~Josline

Upcoming Events

2012-03-11T22:24:00.000-06:00

Modern Mama is your modern, mom-focused, moms group! It’s about “getting moms out of the house”. All events are small, private and led by an expert, since 2008. Have a look at what’s coming up!

The Home Event
Join us Wednesday, March 14 from 7-9pm at Shelly’s Finds for a private event focusing on all things HOME! We’ll have designers and home organizers on hand offering tips and answering all your questions. We’ll also hear from the Backup Mama herself about how to keep the house clean… with kids! Enjoy wine and cupcakes while you shop, mingle, decorate, and more! For more information and to register click here.

Playgroup Mini-Mixer
Looking for a playdate group? Wondering how to meet moms and what to do? Join us Thursday, March 22 from 10-11:30am at Time Out Beauty Retreat for a "Playgroup Mini-Mixer"! You'll get some "time out" with on site childcare, self care tips, and of course MEET moms for future playdates! For more information and to register click here.

Modern Playdate- Cafe O'Play

Join the mamas of My Mom & Me Design and Modern Mama Spruce Grove on Monday, March 26th at 10am (or whenever you get out the door) at Cafe O'Play in Edmonton. This is a pay-as-you-go event! Cost is $6 for children 1 year and older. Perks Cardholders save 10% off your entrance fee! Purchase a Modern Mama Perks Card here. This is a non-registered Facebook event.

Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!

Please forward this email to any other mamas who would love to join us!

Let's meet! Let’s get a coffee! Let's get out of the house... with baby in tow!

~Josline

Playgroup Mini-Mixer

2012-03-09T02:17:00.002-07:00

Looking for a playdate group? Wondering how to meet moms and what to do? Join us Thursday, March 22nd from 10-11:30am at Time Out Beauty Retreat for a "Playgroup Mini-Mixer"! You'll get some "time out" with onsite childcare, self care tips, and of course MEET moms for future playdates!

Looking to get out of the house? Want to get together with a group of moms regularly? New to the community? Whatever the circumstances, the goal of the Mini-Mixer is to introduce you to a group of local moms! At this event you'll meet, mingle, and socialize with other moms looking to get together, just like you! We'll have ice-breakers to help everyone get connected and give each mom a "Modern Mama Playgroup Manual", including contact information for the mamas in the group. This event is an opportunity to form a playgroup of your very own and get started on regular get togethers!

Our venue for this event is Time Out Beauty Retreat, a family friendly Salon and Spa that offers on site childcare with 2 amazing rooms for your child to explore! All staff are trained in First Aid and CPR and have undergone a criminal records check. There are no age restrictions in the facility and non-potty trained children are welcome. Food and drink are allowed in the rooms.

As part of this fun morning out, the ladies at Time Out Beauty Retreat will be giving us tips on taking "time out for mama"- information on self-care, beauty tips, ideas on how to take "time out", and more! The fabulous Time Out staff will be providing childcare during this event so moms can "take time out" and socialize! We'll also be serving coffee/tea and some tasty pastries!

The cost of this event is $10 or for Modern Mama Perks Cardholders this is a FREE event! If you are not yet a Cardholder... you should be! For just $35/year you get a discount on ALL Modern Mama events, some FREE... and TONS of discounts on-line and at local classes, photographers, shopping, and more! Like Time Out Beauty Retreat that offers a 10% discount to our cardholders! You can purchase a card when you register! Register for the mini-mixer here!

Let's get of the house... with baby in tow!
~Josline, Modern Mama Spruce Grove

Five Things Friday: Coming Events

2012-02-24T08:00:00.002-07:00

Modern Mama is your modern, mom-focused, moms group! It’s about “getting moms out of the house”. All events are small, private and led by an expert, since 2008. Have a look at what’s coming up! Come on out!

{one} Infant & Child CPR/First Aid
Join us on Tuesday, February 28 from 10-11:30am at the Tri-Leisure Center for the “basics” of infant & child CPR and first aid. Make this a “morning out” for mommy while we learn AND mingle. Cupcakes will be on hand from Sugar Leaf Cupcakes as well as beverages and a light snack! Keep baby near you during the event or take advantage of the TLC’s childcare service. Register here.

{two} Beauty Basics
Join us Sunday, March 4 from 9-11am at Sephora West Edmonton Mall to learn about the hottest beauty trends this Spring. Enjoy yummy pastries and a coffee while you choose from over 250 product lines. You will also take home some fabulous samples! Keep baby near by at this private event or take advantage of our nanny service. Register here.

{three} Infant & Child CPR/First Aid
Join us on Tuesday, March 6 from 7-8:30pm at the Tri-Leisure Center for the “basics” of infant & child CPR and first aid. Make this an “evening out” for you and hubby or get some girlfriends together! Cupcakes will be on hand from Sugar Leaf Cupcakes as well as beverages and a light snack! Keep baby near you during the event or take advantage of our nanny service for this event. Register here.

{four} Parenting Experts Alysson Schafer & Maureen Dennis
Join us for an open session with two of the countries leading experts on parenting! Modern Mama presents Alysson Schafer & Maureen Dennis on Thursday, March 8 from 7-9pm at Cafe Tiramisu. Come hear from the author of Honey, I Wrecked the Kids and the parenting expert of the Marilyn Denis Show. Register here.

{five} The Home Event
Join us Wednesday, March 14 from 7-9pm at Shelly’s Finds for a private event focusing on all things HOME! We’ll have designers and home organizers on hand offering tips and answering all your questions. We’ll also hear from the Backup Mama herself about how to keep the house clean… with kids! Enjoy wine and cupcakes while you shop, mingle, decorate, and more! Register here.

Tell us your idea for a Modern Mama event and be entered to win a FREE registration to our evening “Infant & Child CPR/First Aid” event on March 6 at 7pm. Comment on the blog here. (Contest closes on Thursday March 1 at 9pm.)

The Home Event

2012-02-24T02:28:00.002-07:00

The "Home Event" is a uniquely Modern Mama event that aims to give moms a night out of shopping, home organization and design tips, and more. This private event focuses on all things home!

Join us on Wednesday, March 14th from 7-9 pm at Shelly's Finds in Stony Plain! Shop for yourself or your home! Meet some local moms! Drink some wine! Have a cupcake, or two! Take a night to focus on you and your home!

We will have home organization expert Naomi McKinnon on hand giving us tips on organizing the laundry and mud room! Jacqueline Neher of Urban Chickadee has a background in Architectural Technology and Interior Décor. She will be sharing ideas for designing rooms KIDS love! Prista Chevalier is the owner of Backup Mamas, a local company offering detailed home cleaning/move out cleaning, in home laundry service, grocery/errand service, and on-call childcare. Prista will be giving us advice on how to keep the house clean... even with kids!

All of our experts will be on hand throughout the evening to chat with and answer all your questions! Bring your samples, paint colors, pictures, measurements, and more!

Shelly's Finds is located in Stony Plain and is a home decor and gift ware haven! We’ll have some 20% off (single item) gift cards up for grabs!

Are you looking for a way to clear the clutter? Perhaps you need some ideas for your child's room or living room? Wondering how to keep the house clean with kids? Need an evening out? Then you need to attend the Modern Mama Home Event!

Tickets are $20 ($15 for Perks Cardholders). Register here.

Register early!

Five Things Friday: Perks Partners

2012-02-17T01:48:00.002-07:00

Perks Partners offer a fabulous product or service at a "discount" to Modern Mama Perks Card holders. These aren't just any discounts, these are discounts at the hippest places in town (and on-line) and probably the only way you’ll get a discount with them!

Welcome to our 5 amazing and fabulous new Perks Partners:

{one} Sugar Leaf Cupcakes

Sugar Leaf Cupcakes is a family owned and operated business in Stony Plain that specializes in 'creating all things cake'. Cupcakes are baked fresh each morning using made-from-scratch recipes and only the freshest ingredients! Choose from 11 delectable cupcakes, the “cupcake of the month”, homemade cookies, and other delightful treats! This month’s cupcake is Cinnamon Heart… rich red velvet cake with cinnamon infused cream cheese buttercream icing. Yummy! Perks Card holders save 10% off a dozen cupcakes!

{two} Perfect Pair Photography

Perfect Pair Photography is owned by two local women, both trained and experienced photographers who have been photographing for almost a decade. I love their "about"... "We specialize in capturing your life in the most natural and comfortable way. If there is a park you like, any location you love, or even in your living room, we love to capture your life just as you love it. We believe that you should be able to look back on your photos and see the art that your life truly is." Perks Card holders get 50% off a session fee and a free 8x1o photo!

{three} The Goddess Within

The Goddess Within offers pre and post natal services designed to support moms-t0-be (and dads) as they prepare for birth and beyond. They offer a variety of classes and services including child birth prep, yoga birth method classes, birth doula service, infant massage classes, new parent classes, breastfeeding support, postpartum support, and baby food making workshops! The Goddess Within is owned and operated by a DONA International certified birth doula and a Registered Nurse. Perks Card holders save 10% off with The Goddess Within!

{four} Kristina Rephcuk Photography

Kristina Rephcuk Photography is owned by a local momographer who lives just outside of Stony Plain. About 3 years ago her husband bought her what she likes to call a "proper camera" for her birthday; her love for picture taking changed forever! She enrolled in class after class and began to just snap away. After her daughter was born she "instantly had a model at my disposal anytime I wanted one"! Perks Card holders save 15% with Kristina Rephcuk Photography!

{five} Crock-A-Doodle in the Grove

Crock-A-Doodle in the Grove is a paint your own pottery oasis right here in Spruce Grove! They offer drop-in pottery painting, birthday parties, private parties, and programs and classes for kids! Friday nights they have "Movie Night" from 6-8pm and on Saturdays it's Doodle Dudes from 10-11am! Perks Card holders get 15% off children's art classes!

Are you a company offering a product or service targeting moms, parents, families, infants, children or expectant couples? Would you like to offer Modern Mamas a discount or special package? Click here to apply.

Membership has it “perks“! Purchase your Membership Perks Card today and enjoy a full YEAR of partner discounts, savings on all Modern Mama events, and many other PERKS, lots of them!

Goto www.modernmama.com/spruce-grove and tell us your favorite Modern Mama Perks Partner and win a FREE Perks Card! Tell us who referred YOU... if you win, you'll each get a card!

Contest: Perks Card valid for one year. Already have one? We'll ADD a year for free! Must comment on www.modernmama.com to be entered. Contest closes Thursday, February 23rd at 9pm MST.

Weekend Guide: January 27-29

2012-01-27T01:59:00.000-07:00

Go on... get out this weekend!

Storytime!

Who: Spruce Grove Public Library

What: Family story time!

Where: 35-5th Avenue, Spruce Grove

When: Saturday from 11am- 12pm.

Why: Stories, songs, and crafts for the whole family!

Bounce Countryside!

Who: Bounce Country

What: Drop in bouncey time.

Where: 5413- 51st Street, Stony Plain

When: Saturday 4:45-6:45 pm.

Why: Great indoor fun!

Go City!

Who: Postpartum Depression Awareness

What: Mommy Event

Where: West Edmonton Mall- near The Bay

When: Saturday 12-6 pm.

Why: FREE event with tons of local vendors!

Weekend Guide: January 20-22

2012-01-20T17:05:00.002-07:00

Staying in? Going out? Here's what we suggest!

Movie Time!
Parkland Cinemas is opening "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" this weekend. Friday-Sunday 7:30pm evening show only and 2:00pm on Saturday-Sunday.

Go City!
It's your last chance to take in the Ice on Whyte Snow Festival in Edmonton. Giant ice slides, an ice maze, and ice skating with free rentals (Saturday)! Top 10 reasons to go!

Have Your Say!
Last May Modern Mama gave away over 40 mom, baby and tot products in a one-night exclusive event called the Hottest Tot Products! We’re doing it again this year, and we’d like your help! NOMINATE (as many as you like) a Hot Tot Product today!

Relax!
Time Out Beauty Retreat is a salon and spa... with childcare, right here in Spruce Grove! They have some last minute massage appointments available for Saturday! Call 780-960-3666.

Shop and Save!
Membership has it "perks"! Purchase your Modern Mama Perks Card and get a full YEAR of discounts on Modern Mama events and TONS of discounts at the hippest places in town and on-line! Now getting shopping!

Weekend Guide: January 13-15

2012-01-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

Eat, plan, shop, swim, and explore... LOCALLY

right here in Spruce Grove (and area)!

Eat: Redline Diner in Spruce Grove recently opened "Redline Sweets"! Baked pies, fresh cookies, and more! Every mom in our Mama & Tots and Mama & Baby Series' get a coupon to stop by for a FREE cookie!

Plan: 2012 dates have been announced for the Little Monsters Swap Meet: March 31, April 28, June 9, August 25, and September 22. New website and new email!

Shop: Spruce Grove has a great recycling program and a fantastic RECYLCED clothing company! Check out Robadig- Upcycled clothing online!

Swim: The Tri-Lesiure Center is open for public swimming Saturday 12:30-9pm and Sunday 6am-9pm. Family swim is $20 (2 adults, 3 children). The TLC is celebrating 10 years in 2012!

Explore: Have you checked out Sandyview Farms? Their "meat snacks", as my hubby calls them, are made right in store with no MSG, fillers, or gluten.

Mama & Baby Series

2012-01-09T06:00:00.002-07:00

"Mama & Baby"... the modern mom's group!

Join us for expert speakers, demos, and whole lot of mom and baby fun! Learn about that "first year" and experience all that our community has to offer moms and babies!

We focus on all things mama & baby...
in Spruce Grove (and area)!

This 8-week program runs on Wednesdays from 10-11:30am at the Tri-Leisure Centre in Spruce Grove. Kicking off the New Year is our "Mama & Baby- the Health Series" that focuses on the health and well-being of you and your little one! Topics include nutrition, dental & eye health, "tummy time", medication safety, infant massage, fitness, infant first aid and CPR, and more! And as always... our final session ends with a mom and baby swim class!

Every mom will receive a digital MOMento photo taken by Jody Noel of Heart & Soul Photography! We also have giveaways from these local businesses- Golly Gee Baby, Stella & Dot, Shelly's Finds, Crock-A-Doodle in the Grove, CHILDishes, Parkland Cinemas 7, My Mom & Me Designs, and Sophie Madison.

Although the program is geared towards babies 1 and under, everyone is welcome! The Tri-Leisure also offers childcare on site for older siblings for a small fee.

Come on out and meet some other mamas and babies!

The Health Series runs January 25- March 14, 2012. Programs are held at the Tri Leisure Centre unless otherwise indicated. The cost is $90 ($85 for previous program members or Perks cardholders). Paid and attending registrants will receive a receipt that may be eligible for reimbursement under some health care plans.

The finalized agenda will be posted shortly! Click here to check out our last program: Fall Program. Ready to register? Please fill out and submit your on-line Registration Form by clicking here and scrolling down to registration.

Have questions? Are you a local business who would like to contribute to our program (ie. swag, door prizes, demonstrations)? Sponsorship opportunities are available! Email Josline at josline@modernmama.ca.

Weekend Guide: January 6-8

2012-01-06T01:05:00.000-07:00

"The Mama & Baby- Health Series" starts January 25th! What better way to spend your weekend than supporting our local sponsors!

Create: check out Crock-A-Doodle in the Grove; a paint your own pottery oasis!

Watch: catch a matinee with the kids or date night with hubby at Parkland Cinema 7!

Shop: get Christmas decor at 50% from Shelly's Finds!

Shop: check out the handmade creations of Marg & Melissa!

Shop: purchase handmade and fair trade at GollyGee Baby!

Shop: spoil your little ones with luxury blankets and bedding from sophie | madison!

Fundraise: start a fundraiser with personalized dishes from CHILDish!

Shop: spoil yourself with some BLING in 2012 from Stella & Dot (Heather McLellan)!

Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!

2012-01-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

Let's play! Let's get out! Let's get on the go!

Looking to get out of the house? Wondering where to go and what to do? Want something different each week? "Mama & Tots... ready, set, go!" is a 6-week" on the go" program for moms and their tots aged 1-3 years. Moms and tots meet on Thursday mornings at various times and locations in and around Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Edmonton.

Our next program starts Thursday, January 19th! Space is limited to 15 moms! Register today!

Check out the program here... Mama & Tots Schedule! Moms and tots will enjoy gymnastics, dancing, music, story time, nature, swimming, and lots of PLAY! We visit Aerials Gymnastics Club and the Public Library in Spruce Grove, Dance Soul in Stony Plain, Gymboree Play & Music and the John Janzen Nature Center in Edmonton, and our finale is at the TLC pool!

Although the program is geared towards ages 1-3, ANYONE aged 0-4 is welcome! The cost is $75 per mom and (1) tot, $70 for previous program participants or Perks cardholders, and $60 for any additional children (1-4). Additional children under 1 are no charge!

Join us... on the move!

Register here (scroll down to Registration Form)... Mama & Tots registration page.

This program is sponsored in part and facilitated by Melissa of My Mom and Me Designs! Have questions? Email Josline at josline@modernmama.ca or Melissa at mymomandmedesigns(at)gmail(dot)com!

New Years Eve: Modern Mama on CTV

2011-12-30T10:07:00.003-07:00

Sajida and I were invited to CTV Edmonton this morning to talk about "Celebrating New Year's Eve Family Style" with the fabulous Dez Melenka! Here's what we talked about:

Family-friendly Events:
Stony Plain: Family Fest
Celebrate "outdoors" with the family at Heritage Park from 6-9pm. Enjoy skating, bouncy tents, hot dogs & hot chocolate, horse-drawn wagon rides and more for FREE! The fireworks kick off at 8:45pm.

St. Albert: Fireworks
Fireworks guru Rob Kowalyshyn and Victory Life Church are putting on a $28, 000 fireworks display at Seven Hills. The "bang" starts at 8:30pm!

Sherwood Park: New Year's Eve Festival
Enjoy family fun activities both indoors and outdoors at Broadmoor Lake Park, the Community Centre and Festival Place from 3-8pm. Magicians, snow golf, skating, and LOTS more! The fireworks display tops of the evening at 8 pm.

Staying In:
It's midnight somewhere, right? Celebrate "early" and ring in Canada's New Year with Newfoundland at 8:30pm or the Capital City (Ottawa) at 10pm. Here are a few ideas to celebrate at home:
- pajama party
- movie night
- games night
- make a "family time capsule" to open next New Years
- make "dream boards" for 2012

What do I pay my Babysitter?
If you are fortunate enough to have secured a babysitter, how much should you be paying? Flat rates are anywhere from $70-150 (WOW)! If you have a regular babysitter you will be paying a premium of up to $20/hour! Rates are always negotiable... but keep in mind it is New Year's Eve! Of course if you are lucky enough to have grandma or a good friend babysit, be sure to give them a treat!

Don't have a regular babysitter? Wondering where to find one? Modern Mama has been hosting the event, "Mama Needs a Babysitter" since 2008. It's like speed dating for moms and sitters. Upcoming events include Edmonton West/SW on January 25th and St. Albert on February 11th. Register early!

Happy New Year mamas!
~Josline, Connie, Sajida, Erin, and Kjristen

Meet: Robin of Robadig

2011-12-18T02:25:00.001-07:00

Fun, funky and 100% one-of-a-kind clothing!

Robin Hill began creating at a very young age! She learned to “create things instead of simply sew things” at the age of 10 after a sewing mishap! Years later she is upcycling one sweater at a time. Robin describes upcycling as using something old in a new way; taking something simple and turning it into something grand.

Robin is the owner and mom behind Robadig clothing. She takes gently used clothes, sometimes new, and reconstructs it into 100% handcrafted, 100% unique clothing. “I aim to keep clothing out of the landfills and make the earth a little happier”, says Robin.

You'll find items for everyone from the "wee ones" to stuff for mom, too! My favorite... the orange crush t-shirt dress! Not quit my size!

After spending the last 9 years on a farm, Robin and her family moved to Spruce Grove in June 2011. She is a mom to 3 beautiful children aged 8-18 and Robadig has become somewhat of a mother-daughters project! “My girls help me match colors and prints; it really is a family affair”, says Robin.

You can find this busy mom at www.robadig.com, on Facebook, or twitter!

Have “useable” clothing you are throwing out or would like to give away? Robadig will gladly accept your gently worn items!

100% handcrafted 100% Unique 110% Fabulous

Weekend "Shopping" Guide: December 16-18

2011-12-16T16:45:00.000-07:00

This Weekend: Shop, Shop, Shop and make it LOCAL!

Who: Shelly’s Finds

What: Home décor, giftware, bath & body products, and MORE!

Where: #104, 3805 - 49th Ave, Stony Plain

When: Saturday 10am - 5pm. Closed Sunday.

Why: My gift pick… Energy Muse Jewellery! Beautiful, functional, wearable crystal energy, providing tools of empowerment, inspiration and hope!

Who: Lady Bird

What: Unique treasures and finds for women!

Where: #103, 5112 - 50 Street, Stony Plain

When: Saturday 9am - 5pm. Closed Sunday.

Why: My gift pick… Happiness Kits by Love & Toast! Each one contains 10 different sample 'love & toast' products including shampoo, lip scrub, hand lotion and many more!

Who: Previously Adored

What: Previously adored and NEW children’s wear!

Where: #108, 636 King Street, Spruce Grove

When: Saturday 10am - 5pm and Sunday 12 - 3pm.

Why: My gift pick… reindeer food! Sprinkle the shimmer on your lawn Christmas Eve so the reindeer can find your house from the sky and have a little snack!

Who: Sugar Leaf Cupcake

What: Family-owned cakery making “all things cake”!

Where: #106, 3805 - 49 Ave, Stony Plain

When: Saturday 11am - 4pm. Closed Sunday.

Why: My cupcakes picks… Candy Cane and Christmas Wreath!

Who: Pink Paire Clothing

What: Clothing and accessories for the classy or trendy woman!

Where: #302, 183 Highway 16A, Spruce Grove

When: Saturday 10am - 5pm and Sunday 11am - 4 pm.

Why: My pick… need holiday dress? Pink Paire has the best selection for the modern mama!

Weekend Guide: December 9-11

2011-12-09T01:22:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the best of Spruce Grove (and area) this weekend... online and LOCALLY!

EAT! Check out the Loft at Sandyview Farms for brunch and shop for your Christmas platters while you are there!

SLEEP! Check out these holiday sleep tips by local mom and sleep coach, Heather Plante who was recently featured in Urban Infant!

SHOP LOCAL! Check out the Mamapalooza Holiday Hitlist! Our local Golly Gee Baby and Sophie Madison were featured this year!

EXPLORE! Check out the new Greenbury Development backing onto the 60-acre Jubilee Park right here in Spruce Grove. Stop in at the Dolce Vita showhome while you are there!

GO ECO! Shop eco-friendly and local! Visit local mom, Robin Hill at her etsy shop or online at www.robadig.com!

We are also ecstatic to announce that Meet-Up Mamas is now officially Modern Mama Spruce Grove! New name, new look... exact same everything else! We will be announcing our Winter Mama & Baby and Mama & Tots programs next week!

Photo credit: The City and Baby, "I Shop Local" campaign! Logo by CHILDishes!

Weekend Guide: December 2-4

2011-12-01T01:49:00.000-07:00

Support LOCAL this holiday season. The amazingly inspirational, City and Baby, has challenged it's readers to shop local. Join us as we support the City and Baby campaign, "I Shop Local"!

Eat!
Who: Sandyview Farms
What: A fundraiser... all "tips" will go to benefiting the community!
Where: The Loft at Sandview Farms- #20-135 South Avenue, Spruce Grove
When: Saturday 7am- 2pm.
Why: The serving staff are committed to giving back!

Shop!
Who: Spruce Grove Farmers Market

What: Local Farmer's Market (open until December 17th!)

Where: 100 Railway Ave, Spruce Grove

When: Saturday 9:30am- 2:30pm.

Why: Christmas gifts, baked goods, and balloons for the kids, too!

Donate!

Who: Spruce Grove Specialized Transit Service (STS)
What: Collections for the Parkland Food Bank
Where: Safeway Parking Lot, 94 McLeod Ave., Spruce Grove

When: Saturday 10am- 6pm and Sunday 11am- 5pm.

Why: Let's fill the bus! Bring non-perishable food items and/or a cash donation (tax receipts available).

Get out!
Who: You are FIERCE (MOM Mag)
What: Glam, Glitz, & Grace! A FIERCE Fusion event for ALL women!
Where: Sephora in West Edmonton Mall
When: Sunday 9-11 am.
Why: Meet Leanne Power, local author of "You Are Sooooo Beautiful", get holiday home decor tips, and SHOP! Tickets online or at the door.

Image taken from the City and Baby website, designed by CHILDish.