Urban Suburban Mommy

Monthly Archives: February 2017

Lettuce Wraps in a SNAP!

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

Are you looking for a new “GO-TO” healthy meal that can be prepared in under 15 min?  This meal will be enjoyed by the whole family.  Look no further, I’ve got your new recipe!

It’s so fast and so good, you’ll rely on it each and every time.  Make sure to have some chicken prepared in advance (leftovers are awesome here).  Get ready and hold on tight cause this moves as fast as you need it to.

What You Need:

  • Lettuce (either Leaf or Romaine) Washed and separated.
  • Chicken –  approx 3 Breasts cooked and sliced into strips (pork or Steak are “GRATE” substitutes)
  • 1 bag of Broccoli Slaw
  • 2 -3 Garlic Cloves minced
  • 1/2 Onion cut into strips
  • 1 pepper (I like Red) cut into strips.
  • 2 tbsp of Sesame Oil
  • 1/3 cup of your favorite Peanut Satay Sauce
  • 1/4 Peanuts Chopped (garnish)
  • Sweet Chili Sauce (garnish)

What You Do:

  1. Prep all ingredients specified above and have them ready.
  2. In your favorite 11-12″ non-stick skillet on med-high heat,  heat Sesame Oil and Garlic for 2 min, Stirring frequently.
  3. Add Onions and Broccoli Slaw, Stir for 3-5 min.
  4. Add Red Pepper, Stir for approx 1-2 min.
  5. Add the Peanut Satay Sauce, mix well with the vegetables.
  6. Prepare an assembly Line (like the one shown above).  Start with Lettuce (If using Romaine, use it like a Taco, it’d stiff spine will prevent rolling),  place Chicken, then Vegetable Mixture, garnish with Peanuts and Sweet Chili Sauce.  Enjoy!  So Simple and So Good!

Note: Use can always use traditional tortilla wraps instead to add more substance to the meal.

Danielle Reid

Meal Planning, Meals in Minutes and Independant Consultant for the Pampered Chef

www.facebook.com/daniellespamperedkitchen

Danielle’s Pampered Kitchen..Healthy Meals in Minutes

WEBSITE: www.pamperedchef.biz/daniellereid

 

 

Want To Rip A Hole In The Time/Space Continuum? Have Kids.

Posted on by Posted in The Struggle is Real .

Want to feel smart? Being a mom is like being a physicist, and every day is an experiment in time, space and sanity. Consider some of these basic principles (and yes, I do spend long nights awake):
  1. Often, I’m creating time where time does not exist.
  2. While two bodies cannot occupy the same space, two smaller bodies can fuse themselves to my exoskeleton while I’m trying to sleep.
  3. The speed of light is constant. The speed at which my younger son can launch food across the table is faster than the speed of light, which pretty much makes him a tachyon.
    And he’s not even two.
  4. The acceleration of an object – say, a sharp pointy toy – by an applied force is related to the magnitude of the pain it produces in my face.
  5. An object in motion tends to stay in motion.
    And loud. It also tends to be loud.
  6. For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. For instance, the volume of my voice goes up equally and exponentially to the crap my kids get into.
Mummyhereandthere.com

Mummyhereandthere.com

So there you go. The next time you’re feeling down because your house is a mess or your kids are testing the Doppler effect at a pitch only dogs can hear, take a moment and know that we’re all occupying the same space. The results may be different, but that’s part of the experiment.

Drool-worthy nurseries!

Posted on by Posted in Domestic Goodness .

When our first was born we lived in a really cool apartment. It was the main floor of a big old Victorian home in a trendy neighbourhood. It had a great layout – there was a gorgeous den with an antique fireplace at the front, a really spacious octagonal bedroom (was probably once a pretty grand dining room) a roomy eat-in kitchen, and at the very back there was a little office with a door that opened out onto the little backyard.

When my husband and I agreed on the place we didn’t say it out loud, but we both knew that little back office would one day be the nursery.

And it was.

I found this gorgeous mid-century teak sideboard that was being put out to the trash one night as I was coming home, and my friend helped me drag it from the curb. Lots of drawers, I added a change pad and it was way cooler than any change table you’ve ever seen. We were given the family crib and a glider. My husband painted a feature wall “Maple Leafs Blue” and proceeded to create a chair-rail effect around the perimeter with hundreds of Hot Wheels cars.

I LOVED that place.

But I didn’t take the decor too seriously – I still don’t. Our place was funky and filled with great art – the nursery was totally our style – but sometimes I look at these nurseries that have been professionally designed and covet all of those pretty pieces. Other times I look at some of these nurseries – they’re so immaculate and sophisticated I wonder if the babies know they’re not allowed to have diaper explosions in there!

Check out these for some nursery inspiration. And if you want to steal my husband’s Hot Wheels effect, he says you should go for it!

I’m a girlie girl at heart and I love pink and purple. This nursery is a great mix of style and playful. The Novella Crib at Ella + Elliot is total eye candy! The feature wall is such a great way to create different areas of the room – if you’ve got a large enough space.

Leave it to RH Baby & Child (Restoration Hardware) to make me covet a nursery when I don’t even have a baby to put into a crib. Who am I kidding, if this crib came in king size, my master bedroom would look a lot like this.

Feeling a little French Provincial? AFK Fine Furniture for Children in LA has created some celeb rooms, and this one is fit for a little princess. Some may say “A little over the top” while others may say you simply don’t hold back on the sugar or the spice when it comes to everything nice for baby.

This nursery had me at the tufted crib and gold polka dots. And I’m a sucker for tassles!. I love that it’s kind of whimsical and juvenile yet full of serious style. This is one trendsetting infant! I have to admit I’m a bit of a Land of Nod junkie. I don’t think there’s anything they carry that I don’t love love love!

Straight outta the UK, Funky Little Darlings seriously lives up to its name! Can you even? I would never have even considered the £3,200price tag on that crib – but there’s something so completely amazing about the colour scheme for a little baby girl’s room. #Want (Actually, that darker shade is pretty close to my husband’s choice of “Maple Leaf Blue”).

Ooh la la! This modern French black-and-white nursery has luxe appeal and serious drama. Pottery Barn always has the best accessories – but those floors, I can’t help myself, I want those floors. And that chair. Who am I kidding, I want the curtains and rug too. This is one sophisticated little bébé, n’est pas?

Fresh. Modern. Playful. No, that’s not a three-sided crib, that would be crazy. Lusso Baby carries the Harlow, with acrylic slats so that the hipster baby you’re raising has an unobstructed view of the hand-woven artisan rug and the original one-of-a-kind flamingo stuffie from organic virgin cotton, which is, of course, the incarnation of the most ethical form of taxidermy.

Super adorbs while gender neutral, this cheerful little nursery has all the makings for a happy baby – and happy parents. Tell me you wouldn’t be happy snuggling in that comfy glider. The new line George Baby at Walmart has lots of new pieces offering that great combination of budget friendly and stylish!!!

 

 

10 Questions with CityLine’s Beauty Expert Grace Tartaglia

Posted on by Posted in 10 Questions With .

We at Urban Suburban Mommy had the pleasure of sitting down with regular Cityline beauty expert Grace Tartaglia. She is an inspiring woman who prides herself on helping women look their best. We thought that all you moms out there would benefit from her great advice and tips about looking your best!

1. What is your favorite go-to hair product?

My favorite hair product would be uniq one because it has 10 real benefits for your hair.  The product repairs dry damaged hair, offers shine fizz control, silkiness  and smoothness, hair color protection. The product also helps your style to last longer and adds body.

 

2. What is the thing you feel most women overlook or don’t prioritize when it comes to their beauty regime?

Woman overlook or forget about dehydration. You must deeply hydrate your hair from Roots to ends because your hair needs extra love.  Do this 2 to 4 times per month with a product that’s right for your hair type. This will help your hair to become stronger, healthier, shinier.  Women also overlook their faces. It’s so important to use a face scrub because it will gently exfoliate and brighten your skin tone leaving the skin feeling smooth, cleaned and renewed.

3. Us moms are always talking about being exhausted – and we look it. Is there anything you can recommend to make us look more refreshed than we feel?

Keep it simple and plan ahead: wash your face, use moisturizer for your skin type, use a BB cream or a tinted moisturizer and little blush, a tinted lip balm or lip gloss, mascara and do not forget your concealer. By using an effective concealer to cover dark circles, it will help you not look so worn out. Pay attention to your whole look, your hair your clothes.

4. Does an ‘easy’ style or a ‘wash and go’ always mean short? Is the pixie the go-to?

Easy style does not have to mean short – get a great haircut. Get your stylist to give you an easy to maintain style, something that can be pulled off your face quickly and easily, keep it at your shoulders or a chin length depending on your face shape.

5. As the greys come through, they have a crazy texture, how do you tame them?

You can tame crazy texture from grey hair by actually coloring it. The dye molecules fill in the missing pigments, and help to smooth out the cuticle.

6. There are so many color choices – is there an age that’s considered “too old” for wild colors?

There are so many color choices.  There is no color that I would say that is too old or wild for a person. It really depends on your personality, your career, and how you would like to present yourself to the world. Hair color can change how you look and feel about yourself.

7. We often hear “Long hair can make you look older.” At what age does this start being an issue – or is it untrue?

I really think that way of thinking is outdated.  Cutting your hair too short when your 40 and older, without considering your face shape and your hair texture, can actually make you look older for example.  If your hair is healthy and cut in the way that suits your face shape, I say yes to long hair.

8. What’s the next look that’s coming into style?

Hair trends for 2017 include ultra voluminous hair.  Braids are still on trend with a modern twist on traditional style.

9. When women are looking for a makeover, where do you start to figure out what the ‘new’ look should be?

I take a look at the skin, the hair and the eyes and see how they’re working together.  I then ask my client what length she would be comfortable with and I take it from there.   I then suggest hair colour, the best hair cut for your hair type as well as the best way to style your hair.  When we’re comfortable with all this, and we’re finished the hair makeover, I take my client through the process of doing your make up in five minutes.  My goal for any makeover is to teach my clients how to create their best self and look polished.

10. How do you get women to give up the pony tail?

 

I don’t!! Ponytails are a staple like a little black dress. What I do teach is how to try a ponytail in many different ways. From side parts to poof on top – put it over one side, curled – the possibilities are endless.

ABOUT GRACE TARTAGLIA

Grace Tartaglia is one of Canada’s leading foremost experts in beauty. With a regular presence in millions of homes through her longstanding guest expert position on City TV’s City Line.

Grace is known for her ability to create a women’s best self by allowing her natural beauty to shine through. Grace has been nominated for numerous prestigious awards within her profession.

Grace was given the honor to be the be the spokes person for the Princess Margaret hospital Nohairselfie campaign. They raised the largest amount ever for one haircut totaling $740,000. She is constantly updating her knowledge and education. She has a strong following of a number of notable celebrity clients and on air personalities as well as a very strong following of loyal clientele.

As a spokesperson for Revlon Professional Grace has traveled around Canada and the world both teaching and learning new color techniques, workshops and seminars.

Graces very busy schedule includes working on stages at hair shows, attending gala events, behind the scenes at fashion shows, judging hair styling competitions all while juggling her regular guest spot on a Cityline and running her highly sought after downtown Toronto Salon “Image Makeover”.

Grace is an expert at translating runway looks to wearable styles, while elevating a women’s self esteem in the process.

5 must-have beauty products and tips for every mom from Brittany Gray

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

It was a  lot of fun to connect with fellow mom, Brittany Gray, founder of Fancy Face Inc and the bridal beauty expert for Kleinfeld Canada. Brittany has some amazing tricks and product suggestions so that you can look your best in a matter of minutes as the stunning woman that you are!
1. What make up tips do you recommend to hide dark circles under the eyes (every mom wants to know!)
There is a trend that is making waves right now, which is the “orange color correcting” trend. To execute this properly, use an orange-toned concealer on your under eye area to color correct the blue/purple tones that cause the dark circles. After applying a thin layer, reach for your favorite brightening concealer to put on top. This will cover up the orange toned color corrector and also reflect light so that you look bright eyed and bushy tailed. My two favorite products for this? NYX color correcting orange under eye concealer and YSL Touché Eclat. 
 
 
2. Any tips to minimize lines or wrinkles?
 
There is a product I’ve come to know and love to combat fine lines and wrinkles that happen with age and in the case of mommy hood, lack of sleep and hydration. One of my favorite go-to’s is the Kiehl’s Powerful Strength Line Reducing concentrate. This product diminishes the appearance of aging, improves the overall texture of the skin and noticeably decreases the appearance of marionette lines, crows feet, sub-orbital lines and wrinkles.
 
3. Can you recommend a simple beauty regime that moms on the go can do in 5-10 minutes?
 
I am all about fast, easy and effective beauty. I want to look the best I possibly can in the least amount of time (and without a lot of effort). One trick I swear by is the Dior One Minute Mask. I would love to have the time to pamper myself for a full hour every morning or night, but let’s face it… it ain’t happening. With this one minute mask, I am doing great things for my skin in a fraction of the time.
Another favorite product of mine is Crest One-Hour white strips. I love the ones that adhere to your teeth seamlessly so I can drink water, talk to clients on the phone, all the while giving myself the lift I need to feel fresh and glamorous. With all the coffee I drink now as a new mom, whitening my teeth is an absolute must.
Another trick is to take a few minutes to put together a makeup bag full of everyday staples. I recommend keeping your makeup bag relatively neutral in tone so that when you reach for it every morning, the products you’ve chosen work with every outfit, and you don’t need to do any guesswork. Choose your favorite mascara, a bb cream, a matte bronzer, a blush, a brow pencil/powder and a neutral lip liner and lipstick combo and you’re good to go!   
 
 
4. What is your favorite moisturizer?
 
I absolutely love Kiehl’s Super Multi-Corrective Cream. It smells amazing and it is packed with nutrients!
5. What do you recommend for dry lips – regime or product?
 
Clarins recently launched a new product coined as a “Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil“. This product is extremely moisturizing and don’t feel too slippery, sticky or greasy. Picture a wonderfully hydrating and high-shine gloss. With three shades to choose from, these lip oils have “all the power of plant oils infused in a lip treatment to nourish and enhance their beauty.” 
 
About Brittany Gray
 
Brittany Gray is a beauty expert, entrepreneur and nationally recognized actress and television personality. She is the founder of Fancy Face Inc., one of North America’s top luxury mobile beauty companies, specializing in hair and makeup services for weddings, special events, entertainment industry functions, and celebrity glamour. For more information, please visit www.fancyface.ca 
 

Crepes 101

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

Crepes!  Does that fancy French word intimidate you?  Not to worry, after reading my post, you’ll become a Crepes “Connoisseur”.  JUST IN TIME FOR VALENTINES DAY!!  When trying to learn new techniques in the kitchen, I turned to the queen herself “Martha Stewart“.  Here is is why I love crepes!

Why you should add Crepes into your meal plan:

  • First off, Crepes can be made for ANY MEAL – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dessert and Even Snack!   Traditionally we see them as a dessert, but we’ve been eating them for our meals and we are loving it. – Excellent cure for Lunchbox Boredom.
  • CREPES are EASY to put together.. if you can do Pancakes you can do Crepes.  This biggest difference is Timing, you need to pay attention and have good timing.
  • You can vary your Crepes to suit your taste at the moment- add chocolate, cinnamon, etc.
  • Get your Kids Involved!  They will Love them – mine were eating them plain!

 

5 Simple steps to Creating Crepes

  • Basic Recipe- Start with a Basic Recipe, like the one below.
  • Make 2 Batches, your first batch is your “training” batch.
  • Decide what meal you’re making them for
  • Add your favorite ingredients
  • Wrap and Enjoy

 

Basic Recipe – Sweet (For Savory – meals- omit the sugar)

What You Need:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

What You Do:

Whisk together the flour, eggs, 1/2 cup milk, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Continue whisking until you have a smooth batter. Add the remaining cup of milk and stir well to combine. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill the batter for at least 30 minutes or several hours.  TIP:  Put all ingredients in a Blender.

IMPORTANT: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill the batter for at least 30 minutes or several hours.  TIP: Mix in the morning and leave in your refrigerator.

Heat a skillet (9″-11″) over MEDIUM HEAT.   You want the base of the skillet to be at least 9″.  Melt butter approx 1 tsp (just enough to coat bottom).  The pan is hot enough when droplets of water will “dance”.

Pour 1/3 cup of batter onto skillet.  Swirl the pan so that the batter evenly coats the bottom of the pan.  You want a thin layer completely covering the bottom.

In about 10-15 seconds you will want to flip the crepe.  Using a spatula and your fingers, flip the crepe over.  THE FIRST CREPE WILL NOT WORK WELL (unless you’re an expert), always allow the first one (s) to be a bust – hence the “double recipe”.  The second side will take another 10-15 sec and will not brown the same as the first.  Remove from Pan and set aside on a plate.

Continue to finish the batter, adding more butter to the pan when needed.

MAKE AHEAD:  Crepes can be stored in your Fridge for 2-3 days, or in your Freezer for several months.  Place a piece of wax paper between them to ensure they don’t stick together.

Now to the Masterpieces!!  There are so many variations, here’s just a few to get you started.

CREPE Variations:

  • Breakfast – add a Ham and Egg to your Crepe, roll and enjoy!
  • Lunch – Grilled Chicken with Hummus and Tabouli
  • Dinner – Grilled Chicken with Spinach and Roasted Red Peppers and your favorite Aoili
  • Snack – Peanut Butter and Jelly, Banana and Nuetella
  • Dessert – Grilled Peaches with Whip Cream and Drizzled with Melted Chocolate.

I hope you enjoy this recipe.. please feel free to share with me – WHAT IS GOING TO BE IN YOUR CREPE?

Danielle Reid

Meal Planning, Meals in Minutes and Independant Consultant for the Pampered Chef

www.facebook.com/daniellespamperedkitchen

Danielle’s Pampered Kitchen..Healthy Meals in Minutes

WEBSITE: www.pamperedchef.biz/daniellereid

Want to “Get in the mood?” This Valentine’s Day? We recommend these 10 foods

Posted on by Posted in The Best You .

Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching. You’ve written up the cutsie cards for the kids’ classes and found the class treat you’re going to make on Pinterest.

But what about moms and pops? Isn’t Valentine’s Day for us too?

Urban Suburban Mommy caught up with Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O – a New York City Osteopathic Physician. Dr. Calapai is board certified in family and anti-aging medicine. We got his take on aphrodisiacs.

“Aphrodisiacs are foods that have certain chemical properties that could increase pheromones, estrogen of testosterone, estrogen, heightening our interest in sex,” explains Dr. Calapai. So they’re real. Not the superfly – the urban legend of our high-school days, These. Are. Real. According to the doctor, o be considered a true aphrodisiac the substance must be consumed orally and must reliably increase libido or sexual desire and within minutes. No pharmaceutical blue pills, these are ready and waiting at the grocery store – you may even have some around the house and not realize their magical powers!

Ok so what are these sexual super foods and what is it about them that “Gets you in the mood? Dr. Love – er – Dr. Calapai explains:

1. Oysters

One of the most infamous aphrodisiacs to us all, oysters are high in zinc and have a reputation for being great for fertility. Researchers have found that oysters contain amino acids that trigger production of sex hormones. “Oysters offer a lean source of protein to help give you energy all night long. In addition to offering the body zinc, which helps blood flow and nourish sperm, there’s scientific evidence that an amino acid found in oysters may directly raise sexual hormone levels,” says Dr. Calapai.

2. Bananas

With their phallic shape, bananas already look tempting and sensual; but they also contain bromelain, an enzyme, which Dr. Calapai says, triggers testosterone production. The fruit’s potassium and vitamin B elevate energy levels and the high sugar content gives the brain a kick! Melt some chocolate to add some sexy decadence.

3. Honey

Honey is made through pollination and secretions of many fertile bees worshipping their queen, just what every woman wants! Drizzled on certain body parts honey can be fun. It has a number of vitamins and it also contains boron, which helps regulate estrogen and testosterone levels and the sweet and sappy sweetness provides a natural energy boost.

4. Watermelon

Packed with citrulline and lycopene, Watermelon may have a Viagra-like effect on the body, as it relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. It may even prevent erectile dysfunction. It’s incredibly juicy, sexy and when dipped in chocolate is the perfect flavor explosion.

5. Pine Nuts

High in energizing zinc and fatty acids, which have been linked to a healthy sex drive, pine nuts are also considered aphrodisiacs because of the effort required to procure these oily gems from pinecones.

6. Arugula

This peppery tasting plant has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the first century A.D. “The bite of the aromatic leaf might get you in the mood and the minerals and antioxidants found in dark leafy greens like arugula have also been proven to block environmental contaminates that could negatively harm libido,” explains Dr. Calapai.

7. Olive Oil

Packed with antioxidants, olives and their oil have been used for centuries for health. The Greeks believed they made men more virile as well. “Olive oil is a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are critical for a healthy heart, smooth blood flow and stable hormone production, all needed to keep the brain, prostate and penis in good shape!” says Dr. Calapai.

8. Figs

Eaten by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the fig has forever paradoxically symbolized both sexuality (the ripe fruit with seeds representing fertility) and modesty (the fig leaf). They are full of potassium and are an antioxidant powerhouse, sweet and delicate when eaten.

9. Pomegranate

These bright gems enclosed in a thick rose-colored husk are filled with tangy sweet antioxidants, which support blood flow and clear thought. One study by The Male Clinic in California found that pomegranate juice had a positive effect on erectile dysfunction.

10. Chai Tea

Skip the coffee and end the night with a cup of Indian chai tea. The typical spices in this brew include ginger, cloves and cinnamon, all come from exotic places and certainly will get the blood flowing. Since it has almost no caffeine the stimulant effect is less than coffee allowing you and your lover to drift to sleep.

So forget the champagne with strawberries and whipped cream, skip the big carby romantic dinner. Go for the oysters, the fruit platter with honey, the salad with arugala and pine nuts, drizzled with olive oil, and serve it all up with chai tea for the perfect Valentine’s Day!

 

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the “The Stem Cell Guru” by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson’s. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham’s, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers.

drcal.net

 @drcalapai

 

Start writing out those Valentine’s Day cards!

Posted on by Posted in Mommy Approved .

I’m feeling really proud of myself, I have realized before the stores are all sold out that my children will be participating in Valentine’s Day next week. On the 14th. As happens every year.

Now to get them to the store to pick out a few packs before they’re sold out.

I loved this class activity when I was a kid and I like to indulge my boys now that it’s their turn. In years past we’ve done all hand-made cards, we’ve done crafts, one year I even tried to get all Pinteresty with the dough that hardens into a flower ornament that we bedazzled. 60 of them. It was insane, and days of work!

This year I. Just. Can’t. Sometimes a mama has too much on the go, and it’s okay to let go of something. This year it’s the craftastic exertion of energy on Valentine’s Day handouts.

And that’s okay. I’m fine with it and my sons are fine with it, but it doesn’t mean we can’t have fun picking out some great class Valentine’s cards.

The DIY made easy

This kit from Target still offers a bit of handmade craftiness that the kids can do with little help. Though realistically, mine will lose interest after about 5 cards and I’ll do the rest. Unless I bribe them with TV time while they weave those strings!

Say it with a smiley face

Why say it with words when this Hallmark Valentine’s Day card pack will say it in emojis for you? After all, isn’t this just prepping our young minds for the inane emoji text convos they’re bound to have in a few short years? You’re practically doing them a favour.

The download

Run out of time? Stores all empty? Don’t worry, it’s the 21st century and AvHE design’s Etsy store has you covered with some super duper cute print-your-own. Yes, isn’t this genius? Get yourself some paper and hit print. Print up as many of this cute card as you want, and you can even insert your kid’s name, so you, my friend, are done like a pro!

Nostalgia

Your know your little ones are too young for nostalgia, but these vintage valentines from Indigo sure do take you back. And you know they’ll be a hit with other parents as their littles share what your little handed out!

Taste of the Force

What do they say? All’s fair in love and Star Wars. The Star Wars franchise is just huge, and your little one will be getting plenty of Darth Vader, Storm Trouper, Luke and Leia messages from their little padawan friends, but your kid will stand out with these Star Wars cards from Amazon – complete with the lollipops!

The only other advice I have is, don’t get the overly lovey dovey cards for the kids. I’ve seen some pretty inappropriate cards for kids. I don’t expect any 8 year old to love another and B2gether 4ever or be my first kiss. Let’s keep it rated G and all in fun. And if anyone wants to get extra Pinteresty this year, please share, I’d love to see your inspiration – for next year!!

 

Baked Tuna Pasta (fast and healthy)

Posted on by Posted in Delicious Dishes .

To all my fellow busy families out there.. my posts are directed to you.  As we must stick together to make good decisions for us and our families while trying to meet every deadline we’ve previously committed to meeting.  Are we over-committed? Yes we are!  but there is a certain sense of accomplishment that comes from meeting all of those crazy deadlines.  We all realize that at some point things will have to change, but that’s for another day!!  Today we are going to ROCK what we have, WITH what we have.  So let’s Rock this… Baked Tuna Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes.  One Pot, One Mess, One clean-up.

 

What You Need:

375 g (approx 3 cups) of uncooked Pasta (Rigatoni or Fusili)

3 Cups of Chicken Broth

1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese

1/2 Sun Dried Tomatoes packed in oil, Drained and sliced

1/2 med onion, diced

2 Garlic Cloves, Pressed

3 tbsp Olive Oil

2 Cans of Tuna (packed in water), drained

1 lemon, wedged

1/2 chopped fresh parsley

salt and pepper to taste.

What You Do:

Directions.  * This recipe uses both the stovetop and the Oven.

  1.  Set oven to 350° F.  Add Oil to Stovetop safe 4-qt Dutch Oven or an Oven Safe 4-qt pc of Cookware on Med-High Heat.
  2. Saute Garlic and Onions until Translucent.
  3. Add Tuna, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, 1/2 of the Parmesan Cheese, Broth, Pasta, salt and pepper
  4. Bring the Broth to a boil on stovetop.
  5. Place in the Oven for 25 Min (or until Pasta is cooked through)  * use this time to change you clothes or help with homework!!
  6. Remove from Oven, Spoon in to bowl, adding Parley, remaining Parmesan Cheese and a Lemon Wedge as garnish.

This Recipe is SO SIMPLE and SO GOOD.  It’s a amazing what happens when you combine some simple ingredients with a Flavor Booster such as Sun Dried Tomatoes… Even the kids LOVE it!!

Rock ON.

Danielle Reid

Meal Planning, Meals in Minutes and Independant Consultant for the Pampered Chef

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Family friendly travel? A review of Nickelodeon Punta Cana

Posted on by Posted in Bon Voyage .

Review of One of Punta Cana’s Newest and Most Exciting Resorts – Nickelodeon Punta Cana

There are just some resorts that feel special from the moment that you arrive and the newly opened Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana is just that – special.

Having made it to my travel bucket list this year, this Nickelodeon Resort is one that I wanted to visit since the time it opened in June 2016.  Since it opened the reviews have been great. I have had clients enjoy it so I wanted to experience it myself.

My  expectations were very high before I even set foot on the property – and let me say, I was not disappointed.

The resort is gorgeous. The grounds are lush, the amenities are great and the overall feel of the resort is luxurious. The biggest misconception about this resort is that it can’t be a luxury property with Nickelodeon characters everywhere.  This can’t be further from the truth! Yes, there are characters but they are mainly found at Nickelodeon Place where the kids club and water park are. The rest of the resort is modern and hip with subtle Nickelodeon decor touches making it feel fun, yet still upscale.

A View of the Resort

All the rooms are contemporary with a great splash of colour that represents Nickelodeon. I stayed in a Pad Suite which was spacious and beautifully appointed.  I especially loved the bathroom which had double sinks, a free-standing tub, separate shower and toilet stalls which is super convenient for travelling with kids.

For a complete walk through of this room, click HERE.

Pad Suite

For upgraded accommodations, the top room category at the Nickelodeon Punta Cana is The Pineapple. This Butler assisted, 2-bedroom/3-bathroom suite is inspired by the unique home of SpongeBob Square Pants.  This signature villa has an indoor and outdoor living and dining area, a private master suite with a king bed, oversize marble bathroom and Aguas del Amor (outdoor shower).  The second bedroom on the upper level is complete with 2 single beds and private bathroom. Outdoor area includes a private infinity pool and sunbathing beds – talk about luxury!

The main pool and beach area were also great.  Plenty of loungers for everyone, quick and efficient bar service and a relaxing atmosphere. The ocean was shallow, so great for wading in with kids. One thing that I noticed in particular was how fine the sand was and how there were no rocks, coral, twigs or branches that could hurt little feet.

Gorgeous Beach

Main Infinity Pool

Dining is always phenomenal when visiting a Karisma Gourmet Inclusive resort and the Nickelodeon resort did not disappoint. The Gourmet Village offered restaurant options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With 9 restaurants, multiple bars and its own coffee shop, there was always something delicious and exciting to eat. As I write this I’m trying to decide which was my favourite and I simply can not choose…..Verdello Sicilian Kitchen rivals my grandmother’s cooking in Italy, Wok Wok was the most authentic Asian cuisine I experienced in the Caribbean, BRGRS.PH had some of the most original and tasty gourmet burgers I have ever tried and Fresco offer one of my all time favourite dishes, Ceriche.

The best part of this resort has to be Nick Place. This is where all the Nickelodeon Characters hang out, where you can find the waterpark, lazy river, kids club and where you can get slimed!

What does that mean you ask?  Well check out this video!

So, if you haven’t noticed yet, I am a BIG fan of this resort and everything that it has to offer. This year I have visited over 15 different hotels/resorts across Europe and the Caribbean and I have to say I had a fabulous time here. It was amazing to have a chance to be a big kid again and still enjoy fine dining and spa services. As this was a travel agent trip, I did not have the chance to bring my kids, but I can tell you that this resort is still on my bucket list as I have to return!

Just Kiddin’ Kids Club

Character Pajama Party at Zest

Happy Travels,

Clara

Note!! Our Family Travel Specialist Clara Power has a sweet deal for our readers:

If you want to experience everything that this resort has to offer, don’t hesitate to email at cpower@tpi.ca or call me at 416.996.6849 so we can get you there. Any bookings made with me, a Nick Specialist, are eligible for a free private slime, Character Breakfast or meet and greet for 4 PLUS a $250 USD resort credit.

Clara Power is a mother to 2 well traveled kids, Andrew and Lauren. She is a Personal Travel Advisor at her own travel agency, Clara Power TPI, which is in association with Travel Professionals International.  As an active traveler having visited over 35 countries and almost every continent, (still working on Antarctica), Clara is no stranger in understanding the unique wants and needs of families travelling together making her your expert choice for creating those special family vacation experiences.  Her agency is also recognized as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner due to her extensive knowledge and superior service.

Do not hesitate to call her today to learn about what she can do to help you plan a seamless and enjoyable vacation!
cpower@tpi.ca
clarapower.ca
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Clara Power TPI Travel

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Originally published on clarapower.ca

How Pinterest Saved My Life(Style)

Posted on by Posted in The Best You, Urban Suburban Mommy .

Like many moms, I need help getting dressed in the morning. Not “one leg at a time” help, just gentle redirection so that I can put together an ensemble that doesn’t scream “poor you” or “laundry day.” When I was ready to go back to work after my second and last mat leave, I turned to social media for help. I decided to start a Pinterest board to help me find my style and get my general groove back.

Unfortunately, there were no boards titled “Outfits for Cray Mombies” or “What to Wear When You’re Currently Covered in Poop”, so I settled on “Casual Mom Outfits”. I’ve learned a lot about conserving time and money when trying to piece together a wardrobe on a budget. Here’s what Pinterest has taught me about fashion, style and sanity:

  1. I pick out my clothes the night before. I’m not kidding. You will save precious minutes getting dressed if you’re not standing in front of your closet with your mouth open trying to figure out what to wear. In fact, if possible, pick out your outfits for the week. One less thing to stress about, and you’ll avoid reaching for the same 10% of the closet that you always wear.
  1. I now work with what I’ve got. I have neither the funds nor the patience to start my wardrobe from scratch. Oh pretty please, can I stare at myself half-dressed and sweaty in a dressing room while garbage music thumps through the speakers, causing an aneurysm and resetting my heartbeat? The good news is that I have have a “tabula rasa” closet –full of neutral (black) pieces and endless possibility. Pinterest helped me pull together items I already had and reassembled them in new ways. For example, I saw this:

So I thought: Well, I have jeans and I have 500 black shirts. Add some fancy bracelets and a pair of flats and voila! It looks like I got dressed without having to smell my clothes first!

  1. I stopped spending tons of money on trends. Remember parachute pants? Shoulder Pads? Yeah, I’m still trying to forget. Trends can quickly become fads. And honestly, who can keep track? I’m still wearing a side ponytail. Rushing to keep up is a waste of time and money. Consider too that not every trend is right for every body type. Recently, I tried to rock the whole raw hem with ankle boots thing. It’s supposed to look like this:

I looked like a hobbit in dirty shrunken pants. Now, I keep trendy items to accessories.

  1. I skip sales. Unless you’ve found the one – that item you’ve been dying to get and has finally come out of the stratosphere and into your arms in your size and at an incredible discount – you won’t wear half of what you buy on sale. Volume is not value. If you figure out the cost per wear, you’ve actually spent more on a $10 shirt worn once than on a $100 sweater that you’ve worn a billion times. I used to do 85% of my shopping in January and July – the in-between seasons where everything is heavily discounted – and routinely wound up with things that were out of style by the time I got around to making those purchases useful. Now, I avoid Boxing Week like the plague and only shop Cyber Monday if there’s something I’ve had my eye on for more than 3 months.
  1. I know my digits. Not just my size (which varies from retailer to retailer) but my actual measurements. In addition to being a sadistic torment, knowing my bust, waist and hip measurements will ensure that I order the right size if (when) shopping online, especially if items are listed in European sizes (for example, a size EU37 translates to “Ha ha you wish” in its US equivalent.) It also prevents an accumulation of crap I can’t unload, and I hate returning online items.

Most moms have a decision threshold – after a certain amount of time, our ability to make decisions – good ones anyway – is drastically depleted. It’s called “decision fatigue”. For me, I can’t make executive decisions past 10:00 a.m. (lunch time is usually whatever I can find between the couch cushions.) It might sound corny using social media to dress myself, but if I can offload one more task, why wouldn’t I? If people can pin vision boards or outfits for their cat, why can’t I designate a board for personal style? I’ve become a better dresser and a better shopper, and that’s major value.