So, are you excited about “back to school” yet? Never mind that the phrase also translates into “back to work” for me…personally I can’t wait to spend too much for my daughters’ clothes, handle piles of extra paperwork on my kitchen counter, and — wait for it — pack lunches every single night, since both […] Read more…
Behind The Scenes At Canada AM With Marci Ien
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at a national morning news program? Earlier this week I headed to the Canada AM studio to find out! My gracious host (and co-host of the program) Marci Ien greets me in reception at 4:30 a.m. (yes, you read that correctly) and the whirlwind morning begins. […] Read more…
My Summer Reading: From Canadian Literature to Fifty Shades of Grey
In no particular order (well, actually, starting with real literature so I look smart even if you don’t finish this whole post), the reading material that’s been in my hands poolside so far this summer: Alone in the Classroom by Elizabeth Hay (author of the Scotiabank Giller Prize-Winning “Late Nights on Air” , which I disliked, but I’m all […] Read more…
Win $50 in Shell Gas Here, or $1000 By Sharing Your Road Trip Story!
Giveaway open to Canadians. Have you checked out Shell’s Favourite Road Trip Contest yet? If you submit your Favourite Road Trip story (in 250 words or less) to the Shell Facebook Page, you get a chance at one of three $1000 prizes of Shell Nitrogen Rich Gasolines…enough to fuel your next road trip! This contest […] Read more…
Get Building With the Kids This Summer – Family Constructables From Mag Ruffman and Lowe’s
When I first heard that Mag Ruffman (you may remember her as Olivia King from Road To Avonlea, but she is also quite the home improvement expert) was teaming up with Lowe’s for a series of Family Fun Projects videos, my interest was piqued and I had lots of questions. Who better to seek answers from than the […] Read more…
Our Backyard Reno (Pool and Deck) Phase Two!
Well, a lot has happened since I last updated you on our backyard situation. Just to recap, in Phase One we prepped the backyard and installed a 15 x 30 aboveground pool. Here’s a quick tour of the Phase Two results: We extended our existing deck (you can see the two different tones of wood) […] Read more…
KIDZ BOP 22: The Family-Friendly Musical Fun Continues!
A few months ago, I filled you in on KIDZ BOP 21, a CD with today’s biggest hits cleaned up and sung by kids, for kids. I used it in my classroom (during art, snack, gym) and in the car with my daughters. Now KIDZ BOP is back with number 22, featuring some of […] Read more…
My Laundry Room Facelift: Before and After
During the school year, I tend to make a lengthy summer “to do” list…and this year, “Update Laundry Room” was pretty high up there. In addition to its laundry purpose, the room also functions as a mudroom, and is the entrance we use on a daily basis. I wasn’t looking to replace the washer and dryer, which fit […] Read more…
My Wardrobe Makeover From Personal Stylist “Practical Fashionista”
As you may recall, I’ve been eagerly anticipating my personal stylist house call from Lisa McLatchie, Practical Fashionista. Well, dear readers, that day finally arrived! I’m sure you’re wondering why I, small-town Ontario fashion plate that I am (yes, I’m kidding), would seek the assistance of a personal stylist. I mean, I dress pretty well. I live and […] Read more…
Wednesday Words: How Will You Measure Your Life?
For today’s edition of Wednesday Words, I’d like to share some tidbits from a book I recently read: “How Will You Measure Your Life?” by Clayton M. Christensen, James Allworth and Karen Dillon. As a special treat to you, I will even spare you my own analysis. You’re welcome. Your Strategy Is Not What […] Read more…