Good Karma Baby!

HUGGIES® Baby and You Blog Tour with Mom Central Canada

2011-10-25T05:07:00.000-07:00

Mom Central Canada, Huggies & President's Choice

I have to admit I was over the moon to be included in the Huggies Baby and You Blog tour with Mom Central Canada. I have been on the “diaper train” for the past eight year, so I do consider myself a bit of a diaper expert. One of the biggest issues I have had with diapers is the overnight leaks, with Huggies I can honestly say the Stretchy SnugFit* waistband and grip tabs for a secure fit have not let me down. The only time Baby Boy wet the bed was when he figured out how to take his diaper off and took great joy peeing all over the pillows.

Huggies and President's Choice have teamed up to offer Moms and Babies the opportunity to come together and make some very cool & nutritious dishes.

For Mom the Chef will be making Quinoa Pancakes and for Baby Sweet and White Potato Mash will be on the menu.

Please see the attached recipe cards just in case you want to test out the recipe in advance. Every Mom who attends will also receive Huggies coupons and adorable Tiger Ears to kick off the Halloween Season.

All the fabulous event details are listed on the Loblaw Bay and You Facebook page, go on like it you know you want to!

GIVEAWAY ALERT!

I will be giving away one lucky Mom a 50.00 Loblaws gift card! In order to be entered in the draw simply tell me what your favorite Mom or Baby dish is. Include your recipe if you like and best of all you can enter everyday. I will be picking the winner on Monday, October 31st. Good Luck! (Canadians Only)

Show some Twitter love by tweeting it out it out:

#HuggiesBabyandYou @sherriemae23 and @MC_Canada are giving away a $50 Loblaws gift card on http://goodkarmababy.blogspot.com/

Disclosure – I am participating in the HUGGIES® Baby and You program by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Kimberly- Clark Canada. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.”

Sweet and White Potato Mash

Ingredients

1 White potato, peeled and diced

1 sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 clove of garlic, minced

1oz unsalted butter or olive oil

¼ cup milk – use breast milk or formula

2oz grated mild Cheddar cheese

Method

1. Pre-heat your oven to 350° F.

2. Put the white and sheet potatoes into a

saucepan and cover with water.

3. Bring to a boil then cook for around 20 minutes,

uncovered, until tender.

4. Drain the potatoes, and then place them in a

bowl and mash with garlic, butter and milk.

5. Place in a baking dish and top with the cheese

6. Bake for around 30 minutes, until nice and brown.

Quinoa Pancakes

Your family will love this quinoa recipe, which is a healthy alernative to regular pancakes.

It is also a great way not to waste cooked quinoa leftovers (if you use cooked quinoa,

you need 1 cup (250ml)).

Ingredients:

½ cup (125ml) PC Organics Quinoa

½ cup (125ml) PC Organics Whole Wheat

Flour

2 tsp. (10ml) Baking Soda

2 PC Blue Menu Omega-3

Eggs – Large

1 cup (250ml) Milk

¼ cup (50ml) Melted butter

2 tbsp. (25ml) PC 100% Pure Maple Syrup

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup (250ml) of water

to a boil. Add the quinoa. Reduce heat to low,

cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from Heat

and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow

to cool.

2. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda,

cooled quinoa, eggs, milk, butter, and maple syrup;

stir together until smooth.

3. Spray a large nonstick frying pan with cooking

spray and heat it to medium-high heat. Cook the

pancakes one at a time, using ¼ cup (50ml) of

batter for each. Cook 2 minutes or until the surface

starts to bubble and the sides turn golden. Turn over

and cook two more minutes.

4. Serve with additional maple syrup or with PC

Twice the Fruit spreads.

Nutritional Information

Makes six servings. Per serving:

160 calories, fat 3g (saturated fat 0.5g), sodium 160mg, carbohydrates 27g, fibre 2g, protein 6g.

Low in fat, low in saturated fat, source of fibre

Children at Risk - Celebrity Pumpkin Carving Contest 2011

2011-10-23T16:41:00.000-07:00

There are some charities I will go the extra kilometre to support. Children at Risk (Ottawa) is one of them. They support children and families affected by Autism. Each year they host a celebrity pumpkin carving contest. The pumpkins are outstanding and the prize packs that come with them are amazing as well. This year I was at the Carlingwood Mall supporting this great event.

My favourite pumpkin by far was Jason Spezza's he also the best prize pack, including 100 level Ottawa Senators tickets, signed pumpkin, t-shirt, 20th anniversary scarf and toque and collectable mug. The bidding was fast and furious and I lost in the end, to an aggressive Spezza fan. While chit chatted my my fellow Spezza fan, I realized he was a bit of a hockey afichiando and knew everything about Number 19. I was a little disappointed to hear that we might be losing Spezza to Toronto. **This is just a rumour, but is would be sad to see him go to the big Losing Leafs.

I was lucky enough to snag the Ian Black (@blacksweather) of CBC Ottawa pumpkin. The kids picked it out because it came with a huge set of Schleich Farm Animals and Barn included. My husband, a huge CBC fan was impressed, he cannot wait to brag to his fellow engineers tomorrow about winning Ian Black's pumpkin.

It was a busy weekend for the kids and I. DH was at the cottage finishing the railings and getting everything ready for closing. It's a little bit a sad time as we love spending time at the cottage together. But, in my own selfish way, I do loving having all three kids to myself for an entire weekend.

Saunders Farm at its Finest - 20 years of Fall Fun!

2011-10-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

Strolling musical farmers

Guthrie Fall Family Adventures

What a busy weekend in Ottawa! Our first family adventure started at Saunders Farm, we were invited to a costume birthday party. We had visited the farm earlier this summer, it was a fairly quiet yet fun event. In the fall however Saunder's Farm shines it's brightest. All the staffers are in full Halloween mode, with music, costumes, musicals and treats! I was surprised at the sheer number of people, but with the huge amount of space to explore of the farm, I never really noticed the crowds.

There was a variety of food & activities for my under 8 crowd. My only concern about the entire experience was the washroom situation. My kids are scared of port a potties, weird but true. I think the girls might be a little claustrophobic like me, Andie wretches on cue as soon as she opens the door. The are only 3 or 4 'real toilets in one area near the entrance of the farm and there was consistently busy. And for you city slickers thinking about coming out, the Saunders in on well water so it has a certain eau d' country smell, if you know what I mean.

KT ready to party!

Bring your own snacks and you can save money. However, there are lots of choices including beavertails, award winning fries and candy apples. We all loved the Apple Chucker and Corn Launcher, especially Beckett. The Adventure Wagon Ride is a tamed down version of the Spooky Wagon ride. I will warn you however (without giving away all the good parts) there were several scary parts were just enough to make me cringe. HINT: If you go on the ride with little ones, sit in the middle bench and do not sit at the back. Overall an A rating for Saunders, think of it as a mini Halloween Disneyland just outside of Ottawa.

Saunders Farm recently lost one of their young talents. Jamie Hubley was an Ottawa teen, who recently committed suicide. As part of the Saunders Farm 'family' he will be missed. A fundraiser in honour of Jamie was held on Friday October 22, 2011. It was very honourable of Saunders to help others, who like Jamie are struggling. Kudos for your efforts.

My Sweet Ride to Blissdom Canada with General Motors Canada

2011-10-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Fast and Furious on the Road to Blissdom Canada

Love the way it looks in my driveway!

The good people at GM Canada, get social media. Specifically that bloggers, twitter-folk and media mavens are a force to be reckoned with. Let's be honest, I have a very small blog, but I have loyal followers and audience specific content they enjoy. I find my tweeps to be some of the most supportive people I know and my Facebook followers are a caring community. GM Canada recognized my presence and gave me a Chevy Orlando to drive to Blissdom Canada in 2010 and 2011. This is one of the most luxurious cars I have ever driven. With three children, space, comfort and safety are key characteristics when looking at a car. This vehicle had everything I am was looking for, with my family needs in mind.

Ready to Go!

The girls loved the personal headphones. KT said that the creator of the car must have had kids, and knew that it was noisy in the car sometimes. It is that a small token of appreciation for my that made a big difference in our driving experience. By making the kids enjoy the experience as much as I did driving the Chevy Orlando, my stress level during the trip. The middle row had cabin seats so both girls felt like they had their own space. Beckett took up most of the back row with his car seat, snacks, bubba's and toys. He loved being able to watch the movie along with the girls. Driving to Toronto in the vehicle was a dream, it truly was one of the quietest 4.5 hr drives I have ever had.

Room for all Mommy's stuff

There are several convienince features that made me love the Chevy Orlando even more. The first was the middle consel, there was enough space for my purse, iPhone, movies and other essentials for the drive. The second feature (that I am now purchasing) is the XFM radio. I had no idea the options out there as far as radio is concerned. Don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan of Ottawa Radio. We have many excellent personalitiies that have make Ottawa radio a more personal experince. Once I hit Brockville on my drive, I no longer care what the announcer has to say, it does not mean anything to me. My favourite station on XFM is 20 on 20, awesome station.

One other little perk from GM Canada, they dropped off the car at my home and picked it up. It really is the little things that make an experience like this over the top.

***Disclaimer...GM Canada gave me this vehicle to drive, but the opinions are my own. Thank you Adria! Make sure to follow GM Canada on Twitter at @GMCanada.

Ottawa 67's Hockey Experience

2011-10-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

Hockey for the Whole Family Ottawa 67's Style

My children's school participates in a wonderful free program run by the Ottawa 67's Junior Hockey Team called Adopt A School. Free tickets to all 67's home games are given out to schools all over Ottawa and the valley. Our family was lucky enough to win tickets in September. This was an excellent opportunity to take my 2 year old son for his first every hockey game and not worry about the cost of the tickets if we had to leave early.

All 3 of the kids and I went to the 67's game together, I have not been for quite a long time and I must admit I was very impressed. I was impressed by how the actual hockey game is only a part of the overall experience. Face painting, bouncy castles and live music made the arena a lively and colourful place to experience. As a parent I appreciated the moderate cost of the souvenirs. We purchased pompoms, a foam finger, a hat, a mini stick and a t-shirt for under 50.00. We munched on regular hockey fair, popcorn, french fries, and best of all Egg Rolls from the famous Ottawa Golden Palace ! It was very impressive!

I was able to speak to Erin the community manager and found out about all the amazing community partnerships & community opportunities the 67's support. Best of all, the 67's host birthday parties! Overall we were very pleased with the entire experience, great atmosphere, family friendly and affordable.

***These opinions are my own, I was not paid nor received compensation for this post.

Finding my Bliss at Blissdom Canada with Catherine Conners

2011-10-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

Bliss at Blissdom

Over the past 48 hours I have listened, learned and reflected on who I am. More importantly about who I am not. I am a very inclusive person, I will support my fellow blogger and put myself out there. I am not exclusive, I respect all people regardless of their social media 'cred'.

Catherine Conners @herbadmother 's key note address made me think of who I want to be within this sphere. She made literary, global and historical connections to our ever growing & ever changing interface. She asked us to look beyond our selves as singular and as a whole. The mantra we are greater than the sum of all our part resinated with her address.

I will admit I have been blessed, from the fabulous Ottawa network of friends to the larger groups I interact with, my foundation is solid. Wonderful people like Julia, Diana and Mel, they are like minded, positive and get the person I am and appreciate it.

My teaching career is driven by leadership and leading by example. I think it is about time I have the same presence on line. Trolls will be trolls, but maybe those trolls just need a little more understanding or a social media time out. I have never walked a mile in their shoes and as such I do not judge. Thank you to all the in depth conversations, flyby hugs and fellowship. I am honoured to be among the Canadian social media cohort and look forward to our adventures together.

Buzz Agents to the Rescue!

2011-09-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Scrubbing Bubbles Review

I am busy...I know we all are but between my teaching career, 3 active kids and 2 spoiled dogs, it's crazy around here. I'm not sure if you know about the Buzz Agent program, but I am a proud Buzz Agent. The products keep me up to date about the latest and greatest products and yes I have email Jono and gotten a real response.
I hate cleaning...it's true, I would rather go to the dentist that clean. Jono recently sent me the new Scrubbing Bubbles One Step Cleaner which I am looking forward to seeing if it really makes cleaning the bathroom easier. After the first couple of uses it really did seem to make a difference, I will keep you updated as the weeks go on! I have 5.00 coupons to whomever who like them...Leave a comment and I will mail the coupon to you! *Canadians Only :)

#crazyrunningtweets, Women's Cancer & Chicopee Ski Hill

2011-03-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

YES, I AM TURNING 40......

Love this;)

Recently, in response to the reality that I am turning 40 next year, I have decided to run in the Ottawa Race Weekend 1/2 Marathon during the huge race weekend. Many of my favourite YummyMummyClub bloggers and friends of YMC will be running the 10K the night before, and I will be there to cheer them on. But the 1/2 Marathon is on my "40 bucket list" and it's time I just stopped making excuses and did it already. It has been 8 years since I have competed in a "big'" event (besides giving birth). Big meaning anything over 5km or a Tri-A Tri. During my training runs, I find moments of lucidity where I find my mind wonders to past events, memories, fears & ambitious ideas. I have labeled these thought #crazyrunningtweets in my twitter stream, not that they are crazy in derogatory way, just outside my normal thought processes.

During today's run, (8.5K) one thought kept running through my thoughts Boobfest . Now lets be clear this is a charity event that a very talented tweep @cocktaildeeva is organizing, not an inappropriate adult movie. As I was running, I thought about the women who cannot run because they are in chemotherapy, the women who have had a double mastectomies, and those who have lost their fight. I have friends, community members and family members who have died from various cancers, but breast cancer surrounds me, daily. My tweeps, neighbours and even my coworkers.... everyday I am interacting with women who have fought the good fight. Supporting Boobfest, is one way I can show all of my fellow females I believe and respect their strength.

Boobfest takes place on March 31st, 2011 in the KW area near Chicopee Ski Hill. I would love to attend but living in Ottawa make it difficult, and of course I have to teach..you know my career? So I have RSVP's for the Twitter party with a donation attached. For those new to Twitter party is an online event, where questions are asked and you need to answer with a specific hashtag (i.e., #boobfest). Then using Random Org. or some other selection matter, tweets are chosen as winners. But the real winner, is awareness of all women's cancer and supporting Dee, as she walks the walk and talks the talk during the Weekend to End Breast Cancer . I am proud to say (as my DH shutters) I met Dee through social media, there is no other way I would have met her unless we bumped into each other at the Chicopee Ski Hill. She is a loving mother to 4 and an advocate for many charities & worthwhile causes. She is also a regular on the fabulous Steven and Chris Show showing off her inspired beverages. I am proud to say she is a tweep & friend. Take a moment to look at her site, heck step outside your comfort zone and join the Twitter party. I look forward to following the very cool goings on at Boobest and will live vicariously through social media in lieu of a personal experience at Dee's home.

Yep, I'm addicted

This is not a sponsored post. I think Dee is an incredible woman, OK lets be honest I have a girl crush on her. She is deserving of my support, I wrote this post to see if you might support her as well.
Cheers :)
@sherriemae23

Disney's Mars Needs Mom Review - Bring Kleenex!

2011-03-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer ***Bring your Kleenex Moms, this movie is a tear jerker!

It was an all girl date, 5 girls out for a morning premier in Ottawa. But this morning movie had my thoughts directed at my baby boy.

Disney's Mars Needs Moms is a stunning 3D animated science fiction adventure that uses motion capture to animate the characters. By all accounts this movie is visually perfect. There are memorable characters, moments and a powerful soundtrack. But it's not the setting but the story that sent my emotions into action.

Milo tells his Mom, he wishes she was not his Mom, this after a hard day of cleaning up cat barf, laundry and single parenting for an extended length of time. I have been in this same position with tears in my eyes and my children not understanding my sadness. Aliens come to earth and take the amazing Joan Cusack, Milo's mother to Mars. They intend to take all of her discipline techniques and train the Mommy-Bots who raise the girl babies on Mars.

My Baby Boy

But it was the message embedded in the movie, of a Mom giving her own life and existence for her son's well being that left me sobbing. As a mother with 2 daughters, I see myself in both of them and love them unconditionally. But my baby boy, he is a spitting image of my Dad & my Husband combined. When he grabs my hand and tells me it's "train, play train" or defends his lap territory from his sister, I am truly warm with happiness. I sobbed because I too would give my life, to save the life of my son. Disney's rendition of Mars Needs Mom's sent a powerful message to it's audience, self sacrifice and the depth of a Mother's love.

2011-03-12T10:32:00.000-08:00

Disney On Ice Opening Night Ottawa

Disney On Ice Gift Shop

I was over the moon to have been asked to review Ottawa's Opening Night of Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey. Our first stop was at the gift shop in the entrance of Sociabank Place. There are so many choices from creative toys to magical light up wands to enjoy during the show. We decided to go with Cotton Candy that came with a Flounder Hat and Sea Witch Binoculars.

Flying high above Soctiabank Ice

The show stared with a an amazing dancing sequence with Disney's the Lion King. Simba & Nala were so life like, Andie asked if there were real skating lions. Rafiki's blue backside made the entire audience howl with laughter. Next, the beautiful Ariel and her best friend Flounder delighted us with their spectacular display. Nothing would be complete without the Disney on Ice performers giving us their rendition of Under the Sea. Our third chapter in this magical journey brought us to the island of Hawaii. Lilo & Stitch find each other and create an unusual but loving family unit. The highlight for me was seeing Peter Pan and Tinker Bell. I have been fascinated with this story since I was a little girl. My older brother's name is Peter and for years I thought he could fly! This is where Disney on Ice becomes Disney "flying above" the ice! Michael, John and Wendy take a magical flight across London the city of London to Never Never Land. Wow, I was amazed. The pirate, ship alligator and Nana the dog made this chapter in Disney's Magical Journey my favourite by far. Seeing Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Goofy made me long to go to Disney World with my family this March Break. But seeing Disney on Ice was a close second for my family and I.

Captain Hook's Nemesis !

I hope my readers where able to take advantage of the a 20% discount code I posted for my readers last week. There is one more opportunity to use the discount, just enter the word MOM. The code is good for the following performance tonight's performance Saturday March 12th, 7:00pm. Have a wonderful time, say "hi" to Tinker Bell for me!

Disney On Ice Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey - Ottawa Show

2011-03-09T10:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends!

Here is a discount code for everyone to use & share for the shows in Ottawa. Some conditions apply, as noted below. I will be at the Opening Night Media Event tonight and will post pictures asap! Let me know what you think of the show, next year we will have ticket giveaways!

Enjoy !

Sherrie Guthrie

Century PS

PRMom Ottawa

**$20 tickets with Code MOM on select performances (Savings of $10 on $30

tickets, and $3 on $23 tickets)

Not valid on Front-row or VIP seats

No double discounts

Performances it is valid on;

o Thursday March 10th, 7:00pm

o Friday March 11th, 7:00pm

o Saturday March 12th, 7:00pm

Link: [ http://www.capitaltickets.ca/promo ]www.capitaltickets.ca/promo

Swiss Chalet First Timer!

2011-02-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

I must admit previous to this experience given to me by EverythingMom.com, I had never eat or ordered from Swiss Chalet . I know strange but true! However I am now a believer. I was able to order online from my computer at school and pick up the ready to go meal at the restruant on my way home. Does it really get any easier that this? While I was at the pick up counter, I spoke with Kelly the manger who asked how far my drive was. She was able to repack my dinner order to make sure it stayed warm on the commute home. There was probably 15 people in and out during my short visit to Swiss Chalet, and everyone was served quickly. The true test was when I got home, and to my amazement they like it!
The chicken, salad and buns were quickly gobbled up but my 3 hungry kids. The mini- M&M's were a nice touch for dessert. We will be ordering again from Swiss Chalet.

Thank you to @everythingmom for the 50.00 gift card and opportunity to participate!

All Dressed Up Like a Dish of Fish!

2010-12-31T20:45:00.000-08:00

The good people at BlueWater Seafood are sending me some fabulous products to test out with my family in the new year. This is another step for our family towards "eating in the right direction". We struggle with picky eaters in my little brood, as much as I love reading and following Kathy Buckworth's advice to have them "Shut Up and Eat" I am too soft and cave in at the first sign of meltdown. Hopefully BlueWater Seafood can help!

My husband's family hails directly from Newfoundland, I look forward to having them try our my the new dishes I will be creating with the BlueWater products I have been given to try out. I will also be giving away 5 prize packs to my readers via comments on my BlueWater posts. Each prize pack will contain a free product coupon and collapsible BlueWater Seafoods market bag. I look forward to hearing your comments about my adventures with BlueWater Seafood!

Iams Home 4 the Holidays!

2010-12-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

I wanted to introduce you to, two special furry people in my life. Snickers and Easton are my 8 year old Border Collies, they are my fur-children. So naturally they are spoiled just as much as my children are.
I could not imagine my life without them, especially their unconditional love.
This holiday season I wanted to let you know about a program called, Home 4 the Holidays, an Iams initiative with the goal of finding homes for pets currently living in overcrowded animal shelters. Iams has already partnered with 3,500 shelters and since the campaign began in 1999, it has helped more than 4.6 million orphaned animals find loving homes. This year, we are working to find loving “forever” homes for 1.5 million dogs and cats throughout the holiday season. This Video speaks to the need and love that the Home 4 the Holidays program is based on. Please consider bringing a pet into your home this holiday season. With the right amount of time, love and energy you can find your Fur-Ever Friend.
This morning, the wonderful and pet loving Sandy Sharky from Bob Fm Ottawa explained that the Ottawa Humane Society, is down 40 % in donations. I pledged a donation of 50.00, to help those pets less fortunate than my two. Please consider making a donation at Ottawa Humane Society .

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from SherrieMae & Family!

Our Family Quaker Journey!

2010-12-02T16:55:00.000-08:00

About a month ago, my family and I started a journey. My husband and I decided it was time to take steps to put healthy eating at the top of our priorities. We knew we had to start somewhere so we started with breakfast. The wonderful people at MomCentral Canada, were looking for people interested in started their own Quaker Journey, the timing could not have been better.

Our Family

My husband is a snacker, he hates regimented meal times. So instead of eating breakfast at a certain time, he has a huge container of plain Quaker Oats at work. He heats a bowl up whenever he feels hungry for his first meal of the day. He has noticed he is not as hungry, during that 11am slump he used to feel. He thinks he also is sharper throughout the day, which is a bonus.

I like the Reduced Sugar Apples and Cinnamon Quaker cereal. I catch a bite to each at 7:45 before I begin teaching. In my experience I have found that I am less hungry come nutrition break time. This is a good thing because my staff room is a plethora of treats. Birthday cakes, candy, fundraising chocolate bars and cookies are always dumped in the staffroom. Without a full belly, I would have been the first one to start hoovering down the chocolate. Thanks to my Quaker Journey have been able to say no, more that I have said yes to those treats.

My middle daughter, who is dramatic and over zealous at the best of times, lives by routines. Each morning between 5:45 am and 6:00 am, without fail, she has Apples and Cinnamon Quaker cereal, with a little bit of milk and blueberries. She cuddles up on the couch with her cereal, blankie and cartoons and gets ready for her day with a good breakfast. She likes her quiet time, and once she if finished eating she happily chats about the day ahead.

Our journey to healthy eating is measured in baby steps. Breakfast, including our own Quaker Journey has been the first step. Next we are incorporating two veggies and one fruit in all of our lunches. Baby steps are the key to making changes and the Quaker Journey made that step easier for us. Check out Lynne's journey as she makes positive changes in her life as well with her personal Quaker Journey at http://www.quakerjourney.ca/ .

Disclosure - I am participating in the Quaker Journey to Wellness program by Mom Central on behalf of Pepsi Co. I received a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

The Guthrie Family's Top 3 Ubisoft/Nintendo Games for Christmas 2010!

2010-11-21T19:48:00.000-08:00

Blogher was an amazing experience for me. One of the biggest reasons it was successful was meeting Scott from Ubisoft/Nintendo. I tried to find companies that I could associate with, meaning family friendly companies I would be proud to represent. My family and I have had the pleasure of testing out many of Nintendo DS & Wii games. These are our top 3 picks for the 2010 Christmas season.

My kids love their DS's and so do I, especially on long trips. Katie, 7 and Andie, 5 tested out Petz Fantasy Sunshine Magic and Petz Fantasy Moonlight Magic. The girls loved the 40 different magical Petz. The dressed, fed, cleaned and played with their Petz. As a Mom I feel this game helped my children develop a greater sense of empathy. In a world where video game violence is the norm here was a game that encouraged a positive attribute in my children. The game has mini games within its games to keep the kids fully engaged. Out all of the games we tested this is by far our favourite kids DS game.

Our top pick for Family game is Wii Dance and Wii Dance Broadway. It was amazing watching the 2 year old and teenagers all getting down to "Who Let the Dogs Out". All four kids could play at once and watch their progress during the dance. Wii Broadway introduced my children to classic Broadway songs like "Little Shop of Horrors" and "Hairspray". Not only did they learn the dances but they also sing the songs now. Wii Dance Broadway avatars dance on a stage with period costumes and hairstyles. Love the attention to detail! This is a fabulous game for the active family, especially during those cold winter days.

My last review is an adult game. We thought this game was HILARIOUS! Four of us could play Who Wants to Be a Millionaire simultaneously, and create our own avatars. I have to admit we have had several impromptu "get togethers" and ended up playing this game all night long. We have a long standing Friday night games night with some close friends, they can't wait to see what new games have arrived. However, we always come back to this one as our favourite. General knowledge questions make it accessible to all. Having a Christmas party? Think of this game as the ultimate ice-breaker for new couples coming together or old friends looking for a new twist to the classic get together. You will not be disappointed!

All these games are available at WalMart, Toys R Us & Online (Canada & US). I was given a copy of each of the games to test with my family, these opinions are my own and are my intellectual property.

The Build a Bear Fiasco

2010-11-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Beckie and his girlfriend.

You, my readers know I love my children more than anything on this planet, and those very close to me know I spoil them. Yes spoil people, if you have been to my house you know it is a walking toy commercial. So when my AndiePandie was sick for her birthday party and Katie's birthday was just around the corner, we decided to have one big party.
Both girls wanted to go to Build a Bear, no problem I thought I don't have to clean the house! We have our own bus (yes I said that out loud) so when I pulled up to the the community centre and 23 little bodies got on I realized how much this might cost.
We arrived at Build A Bear at Bayshore early, the entire party started chanting Let Us In, Let Us In..nope not kidding. As the gate lifted, the party begun to rush the bears like fans at a rock concert. One of the Build A Bear staffers, Jean, shouted STOP... and to my amazement they all stopped in their tracks. Wow I was already impressed!

Singing to the Bayshore crowd.

Getting to the good part of this blog. After they had all picked out their bears, 30 of them stood in line waiting to get their bears stuffed. Then, the world famous Build a Bear stuffer stopped working. The staffers were keeping the party hopping with games, chants and activities, as I watched the manager get on the situation. She pushed, pulled and called head office, checked the switches, and prayed. Nothing worked. We, I mean parent helpers, all 5 Build A Bear staffers and the manager sat on the floor with huge containers of bear stuffing & started stuffing. I did not think this at the time, but we had a BLAST. The kids never knew the difference, it took a long time to stuff bears, but is was FUN!
Why is almost a paid post? Honestly, the manager did the right thing, the entire party was free. Yep, every little Bear was free for my 30 party go-ers. At $12 per kid that was a huge bonus. I decided to buy each kid a Birthday Bear t - shirt, it was the least I could do to say my thank you to the manager.

Staffers at their best!

This is an example of a manger, staff and company that knows what customer service really is. Again, I was blogging about this experience before the party happened and was going to write a follow up blog. But now I have a reason, and the reason is good customer service...and I have been back to Build a Bear for 3 of my friends parties since then. The good word has been passed around. Is this a paid blog? You decided, my thoughts are it's not.

Cynthia is the manager, we have spoken on several occasions, she's a Mom and "gets" it. I will be back and so will my friends. Thanks to the staff at Build a Bear Bayshore who made my daughters party the best it could be. Here is the info:

Build-A-Bear Workshop^®

Bayshore Shopping Centre

100 Bayshore Drive

Ottawa, Ontario K2B 8C1

Telephone: 613 596-9884

Fax: 866-347-6931

Back to School & Baby Segments & Blogher10!

2010-08-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hello fellow Blogher participants! This is the first post I have written since I have been back in Ottawa. Truthfully, I missed my children, they have had my undivided attention since I came home, 3 days is a very long time to be away.

Blogher has left me with many different opportunities including social media sponsorships, blogging contracts and more importantly friendships. I sometimes find it hard to fully explain myself in 140 characters, the depth of my passion for social media, my funny "Canadian" way of expressing myself and my genuine interest in human nature. I felt comfortable in all settings at Blogher, really! Wether it be with my American roommates, the twitter elite or meeting Johnny from Johnny and the Spirits (not kidding my kids love him). I was able to connect with people whom I have never met before but now have formed friendships with all thanks to Blogher.

Several of my highlights included sitting in the W with good friends and even better conversation, chatting with my very funny American roomies and sitting with the elegant Erica Ehm until the wee hours of the morning. Putting faces to names like Julie Cole, Kathy Buckworth, Her Bad Mother, and Sprout Right, and seeing my successful friends like Mo Dennis, CL Buchanan, Sharon DV, Candace x2, Anna, Shannon and the talented Eric was another highlight. I especially enjoyed the quietness of Central Park and chatting with Jen. And there I was in the middle wondering what my place was and how I connected to them all and what a teacher from Ottawa was doing in the middle of everything.

I connect, plain and simple. Wether it be twitter, Facebook, blogging or face to face, I connect people and brands with the consumers they wish to meet. Simply put I am a connector.

My fall schedule is insane. I am currently looking for participants for Back to School segments and Baby Show segments coming up in September & October in Ottawa. If you would like more details email me sherriemae23@gmail (dot) com and I will send you my Term and Conditions.

Attend a Screening of Disney's Seccretariat & Meet the Producer!

2010-08-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

Dustin Sandoval of Disney Entertainment contacted me and asked me to pass this along to other Bloggers attending Blog her in NYC. This is an opportunity to take a break from Blogher an enjoy a moment, while chat with the producer of the movie. Please contact Dustin to RSVP, at the email below and tell him Good Karma Baby a.k.a Sherrie Guthrie sent you. See you there!

dustin.m.sandoval@disney.com

Dear Mrs. Greer

2010-08-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful teacher in Public School, Mrs. Greer. She had high expectations but she was always warm and kind. Interestingly enough however, during my first year of teaching I was able to be her teaching partner and once again she had high expectations of me and helped me become the teacher I am today. That is why I am writing this post to thank her.

As well Tiny Prints (http://www.tinyprints.com), a recognized leader for online premium stationery, kicks off the school year with an exclusive new collection of greeting cards designed just for teachers. Check out the beautiful cards!

Sherrie

My Living Stories & $25 iTunes Gift Card Giveaway!

2010-07-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Katie & Andie's Thoughts about My Living Story

The My Living Stories App was a hit with both Katie & Andie. Katie loved the Princess and the Pea the best. Andie Pandie loved Goldilocks. Katie thought the pictures look like a cartoon and AndiePandie loved the sounds and voices. Katie loved how easy it was to go to the next frame of the story while AndiePandie liked to be able to watch the same story over and over and over again.

As a teacher, I appreciate Children's Classics being brought back to life for my little ones especially on my very portable iTouch. I also will use these Apps in my JK/SK ESL group next year.

So here we go, if you would like to win this gift card simply tell me which My Living Stories App you like the best from iTunes in the comments section below. This contest to open to Canadians only (Sorry!). One reader is going to win a $25 iTunes Gift Card and The My Living Stories Apps are only $1.99 each.

For additional entries:

Follow me on Twitter - @sherriemae23
Follow my Blog
Then comment on my blog that you have completed each one for an extra entry

The winner will be contacted on Aug 3rd, via email or Twitter handle. Just wanted to mention that there are lots of other fab bloggers giving away an iTunes Card via @MC_Canada..but you can only win on one!

Good Luck!

Why I Howled at Great Wolf Lodge - My Review!

2010-07-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

This is NOT a sponsored blog, I did not receive any products, services or accommodations for this post, this is what my family and I experienced. This is only my opinion;)
This was it, our family vacation was underway! We had made the 6 hr trip from Ottawa and this was our view from the parking lot. I was there with my 3 monkeys, 11 bags of luggage and high expectations for the highlight of our summer vacation. A vacation at Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls.

We arrived at 1pm (check in time is officially at 4pm) thinking we would check in and spend a couple of hours at the water park before we went to our room. I was very interested to see that there was 2 check in lines...ummmm, I wonder why? One line was for new families, one was for returning families, hey I have been here before, lets hit the short line. Two minutes and there I was checking in, please remember I was there alone with the 3 monkeys so time was very precious. Megan was checking us in, I mentioned that my Mom & Dad were going to join us tomorrow night and could I purchase an additional wrist band. Megan looked at the reservations and noted that we would be able to upgrade to a Majestic Bear Suite. It had a breakfast nook with 6 tables, microwave, coffee maker, mini fridge, 1 king size bed in a private room, two Queen beds and a pullout. It was 50.00 extra per night, SOLD! And best of all the room was ready to go when we arrived. Yippie, we emptied the car and got ready to explore the water park.

One of the best aspects of the water park is the sheer number of Life Guards on duty. In Baby Beckett's area Chipmunk Cove, there was no less than 5 guards at one time. The water is no higher than my knees and has several toddler friendly slides that he enjoyed over and over again. But the space was big enough for Katie and Andie to have fun as well and not get bored. This was the area we spent the most time inside the park with Beckett, being 19 months he really was not big enough to go on the other slides. I felt safe in this area with all three monkeys on my own, it is a great space for the kids to play, slide and splash. After a couple of hours we went back to the room and changed for dinner. If you have never been to GWL you will be impressed by the excellent food choices for all members of your party. My parents enjoyed the prime rib and grilled veggies, while the kids ate carrot sticks, chicken strips, mac'n cheese, and unlimited ice cream for dessert. I have a fish/shellfish allergy, so I am very aware that at buffets you need to be extra cautious. After I informed waitress, a man in a hard hat and safely vest came over to the table with the head chef. He asked what they could make for me as clams were being severed as the main dish, I asked for a chicken/veggie/pasta dish. Done! Soon after I had all three chickens eating their veggies & chicken and the chocolate milk had been delivered my meal arrived. A lovely chicken breast with roasted veggies and a side of pasta, very nice, I must admit I was impressed.

That evening there was a story time, a treasure hunt and snacks before bed. The next morning we had to be down at the pool at 8:50 as the pool staff were going to pick a "Family of the Day". Returning guest were invited to fill out a ballot when they checked in and drop it off at the pool entrance. If you know me at all, you know I love contest and love to win! And yes my friend, I won! We were treated to a private cabana ( close to the pool), fresh towels, a mini fridge filled with water, fresh fruit kabobs, veggies and dip and cookies.

Papa & the 3 Monkeys Under the Family of the Day Cabana!

We loved it! It was a hot sunny day, so having our own private shady space was amazing. There were cards to play during the down time, in between tattoos, popcorn, ice cream and cotton candy.

We explored the outdoor pool the most on our second day. It happened to be the FIFA championship game afternoon as well, so there were contests and a room with dedicated screens for the game. Beside the cabana was a DJ booth, which played music all afternoon for the kids to dance to.

Baby Beckett enjoying the outdoor pool.

As our day was coming to an end, everyone was getting tired and we needed a break from the pool. We went to the Northern Lights Arcade for a break from the sun, as Grandma and Papa took Baby Beckett back to the room for a nap. The girls and laughed and play for almost two hours. I spend 40.00 in tokens which kept all three of us playing and having fun. We traded the tickets from the games for GWL pink hats and a race car toy for Baby.

We were leaving the next morning and I had enrolled Katie and Andie in the Jr. Lifeguard program at the Cub Club. The girls learned all about what it takes to be a lifeguard, made a sun visor, decorated a beach ball and each got a certificate stating they had completed the program. They were gone from 9 - 11 am, just enough time for Papa to take Beckett for one last swim. Grandma and I cleaned up the room, packed the car, checked out, had a latte and chit chatted on the patio of our room. The Jr. Lifeguard program cost 20.00, seriously the best 20.00 I have spent in along time.

There are 2 things I would like to do next time I go to GWL. First I would like to go to the Aveda spa Scoops with Katie and Andie, and I would like to check out the workout room. I highly recommend before you come, check out all the deals on line you can find. I was able to use Edvantage a site that caters to educators at all levels. I wanted to say thank you to Steve the manager that stopped at our private cabana for a quick chat and congratulated my family and I.

I felt that we were treated extremely well and I cannot wait to go back to Great Wolf Lodge with my family. The accommodations, food and activities are all family centred and based on inclusion. Thank you to the staff, we will see you next year!

My Living Stories App. & an iTunes Gift Card!

2010-07-24T18:24:00.000-07:00

My Living Stories App!

I love my iTouch, any Apple product for that matter. Katie and Andie also love fighting over my iTouch, but next week we start swimming lessons. That means that Katie will be waiting while AndiePandie swims and AndiePandie will be waiting while Katie swims, you get the picture. Each little monkey will have their own time to play with the My Living Stories app.
The lovely people at Mom Central asked me to try out the new Living Stories apps by Decode, excellent timing! I chose The Princess and the Pea, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and Little Red Riding Hood, from the iTunes site. I previewed the stories and as an educator I must say I am impressed with the amount of interaction the reader/participant actually engages in within the App. This weekend we have back to back swim meets and after each has had an some alone time with the app, they will give me their honest opinion. My hope is to post a Vlog with their reaction for my readers. Check out my post week with AndiePandie and Katie's review and details on how to win a $25.00 iTunes gift card.

Disclosure - I am participating in the

My Living Stories program by Mom Central on behalf of Decode Entertainment. I

received 3 free apps and a gift card as a thank you for my participation. The opinions

on this blog are my own.

No Reservations required at Taylor's Genuine Wine and Food Bar

2010-06-30T04:26:00.000-07:00

As I read the article in the Ottawa Citizen (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/life/Adami+Baby+causes+birthday+brouhaha+restaurant/3217883/storyhtml)
this morning I could feel my blood pressure rising. Jackson Gard was barred from entering a restaurant. No he was not causing a ruckus, drunk or disorderly, or trying to panhandle the customers the real issue...he was wearing a diaper.
The restaurant owners claim several reasons for this action;

1. He is not a paying customer , fair but do they charge a chair tax for the Designated Driver who is not partaking in the wine of their bar?
2. There is no room for a high chair/car seat...fine, but what about a person with disabilities, is there room for a wheel chair, what about a walker for one of our aging population or are they barred as well?
3. There is no change table, there is a solution for that, many times I have been in a place where there was no change table and managed to find a solution and no I did not change my babies in the middle of the dining table...what about a wheelchair accessible bathroom?
4. Breastfeeding, Really?, have we not dealt with this issue. In Ontario, women are freely able to bare their breasts in public legally. In a place of business or restaurant a wrap, blankie or nursing cover can be used to cover the dreaded breast so no other human being can be offended.

I think the owners have misses the point on this issue. Mom's, Aunties, Grandma's and young women rule the marketing/consumer world. By alienating one of us, you have slighted many. Customers no matter what their size are always right. This is something that I do believe with come back to haunt this establishment. As I prepare for a summer of playing tour guide to many friends, relatives in the Glebe, no reservations will be required for Taylor's Genuine Wine and Food Bar.

This is my personal opinion.

Losing, Loss and Remembering

2010-06-26T17:57:00.000-07:00

This year we are losing our principal, to many people this would not be a major issue...you don't know my principal. I have been with my principal for the past 6 years, every morning he would be there greeting the children and the teachers to begin the day on a positive note. His job each day was to make sure there was respect and manners shown to all members of our team. Our new principal will be wonderful I am sure, but last night after the final staff party, I was emotionally stressed. His new school is lucky to have him, and we will continue to keep his plan in motion.
Loss is a term that is hard to measure. There are different kinds of loss that even escape definition. My loss, in small in comparison to others. My teaching partner, will not be with us next year. She is the A Type person I am not, she is organized, task oriented and laughs at my inconsistent organizational styles. She was the person I leaned on the most and gave the hardest time to when I was on my last nerve. I am at a loss as to what my next school year will look like.
Remembering the opportunities I have had this year, my challenging class, the friends who will not be there next year and the opportunities that lay before me is my goal this summer. I am not a selfish person, but change is difficult. I will remember what I have been taught by my students and staff, and take a step forward into a new school year. I think the summer is going a time to reflect and recharge, remembering what I have lost, and what I still need to learn.

Chapters Within my Teaching Career

2010-06-19T17:09:00.000-07:00

Chapter 1
This year will mark the first time in my career that I will not be preparing a classroom for next September. I am moving to a support role, I will be assisting other classroom teachers. This is a good thing. I am ready to be outside the classroom. As I reflect I realize there are many things I wish I would have done better. Each year, within each group you can see the ones who will succeed, and those who are struggling. My job is to give them the skills they need to succeed, find out what what teaching style works best for them all the while taking into account their social and emotional needs.
Chapter 2
This was the first year in a very long time that I cried in front of my class. A former student, not yet out of high school is having a baby. This is kind of student that I worried about since day one. I knew there were issues and I did everything within my power to help. But as my very intelligent principal told me, "You can't save all of them Sherrie". I shared the story of my student with my class this year, I am not sure what I was trying to gain by telling them, but I wanted to reach them on a different level. My emotions got the best of me, and the tears flowed as I thought about my chunky monkey and the start in life this little boy was going to have. I think of the challenges I have had including the sleepless nights, overwhelming feelings of guilt and the emotional highs and lows of having a newborn. I have prayed that somehow, something positive could come from the birth of this child, because every child is a gift.
Chapter 3
My class this year, I adore on many levels they are smart, intelligent and unique. They challenge me at every turn, but we have an understanding and we respect each other. All of students this year have the ability to be a success in whatever field they chose, the fact of the matter is they have to make that decision, not me. Years from now my graduating class may come back to visit and tell me their victory and defeats. I look forward to hearing their stories and hope that I had some little influence in their successes. I think that is what all teacher really want to hear, "Thanks Mrs. G., you were a great teacher".

Prologue
I have not heard about my former student, since I heard she was pregnant. I consider no news to be good news. I know in my heart more tears will flow once the infant is here and my first response will be to run to the hospital and usher him away to my home. I know this is not reality, but my attempt at fixing the situation. This is not something I was taught at teacher college, but a life lesson I wish I had not learned.

Katie and her Kindle

2010-06-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

My oldest daughter Katie is a lucky little girl. Katie is learning how to read using the Kindle. We opted to get Katie the smaller of the 2 models as she is only 6 years old. What a change this has made to our learning and reading experience. As an educator I am constantly trying to find new ways of encouraging my students to read. This has opened up a whole new way of teaching, now I am not saying I can afford or my school board can afford Kindles for each student, but what a wonderful tool to use at home.
Again this is the smaller of the 2 models, and Amazon was able to ship it to me 2 two days. Now if you are a fan of my blog you know that sooner rather than later I will need to order one for my Andie-Pandie, we will see what the next generation looks like. Check it out, let me know what you think.
Sherrie

Arbonne Sample Giveaway!

2010-04-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful friend who gave me samples of the latest Arbonne products. I want to be clear I do not sell this product of do I profit from the sale of these products. My oldest daughter had extrmemly sensitive skin and I have struggled to find a product that helps the itching without burning her skin. Suzanne, whom I met at the Baby Boom show in Ottawa, gave me several samples to giveaway to friends! Please leave a comment below and let me know if you would like a sample and why. First come, first serve!

FYI : I have my first "giveaway" coming up in the next 2 weeks as well as interesting info, from Iams, Baby Boom and a new magazine launching in September!

I look forward to reading your comments.

Sherrie

Jessica Holmes, Traci Melchor and Me!

2010-04-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

Yes I am part of a fabulous team Jessica, Traci and I are all doing the Potty Dance! The amazing Jen from MomCentral organized amazing mommy bloggers to give the inside scoop on helping our little ones use the potty.

When I was potty training my first daughter Katie, she was such an easy toddler to potty train. Since it was just her and I, we were able to do everything together including using the potty. After I would use the potty, she would like Mommy. Easy Peasy! When my second daughter Andie arrived she wanted to be just like Katie, so potty training again was a breeze. Now the easy part is over! My son is ready to start potty training, and he has umm, different plumbing than we girls do. I am trying some different techniques with Beckett! Things that have worked so far, Cheerios in the potty, so he can pee into them....he loves that but, he tries to reach in and grab them after. However with the warm weather arriving, he has decided that he would rather pee outside than inside, so down go the Pull Ups as he waters the tulips. This is the first of many posts over the next 2 weeks and let everyone know about our journey and yes we will be posting our own Potty Dance! But for now here are 2 links that will keep you laughing out loud until you see Beckett doing our personal version of the Potty Dance!

Here is Jessica's amazing dance http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNIwIt197SQ !

Here is Traci fantastic fandango http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHpFU0nJPpU

Let me know what you think of their dances and I can't wait for you to see ours!

Thanks again to the wonderful MomCentral Mom's for allowing me to join this star studded cast of Potty Dancers!

A solution for Haiti

2010-01-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

PANDIE! Pandie-Bear...where are you? I came to an abrupt halt as I saw Andie sitting by the bay windows in the TV room looking out the window at the blowing snow. ( it had been 5 minutes without hearing her sing, yell or scream so I went looking for her). Watcha doing Pandie Bear? She didn't stop looking out the window, but as she started to speak, her tone made me want to sit down....Mommy, remember when we went to Florida and saw the Castle and Mickey Mouse...Yep I remember baby, why do you want to go back? No, I was just thinking remember the plane ride down with the lady who gave up treats and things for our ears so we could watch TV?...Yep, I remember baby, why do you want to go on the plane again?...No, do you think the people on the plane were nice?....I think so honey, why? I was just thinking that if those people on the plane were nice maybe they would go and pick up all the people who are tired and sore from when the ground was moving and bring them here....we have lots of room and I can share my room with a girl and you could share your room with the Mommy of the girl and then they wouldn't cry on TV anymore...I'm just worried they might not like the snow....This is my 4 year old solution to the crisis in Haiti, how am I too argue to her logic?

My Adopted Son from Haiti

2010-01-15T15:34:00.000-08:00

Had a very vivid dream last night that I adopted a child from Haiti, a little boy Beckett's age, his name was Thomas. They grew just like brothers, fighting, playing, each others best friends. I kept seeing snapshots of their moments together , but one picture kept repeating..Beckett and Thomas hand in hand, the contrast between the two skin colours was stark but neither boy noticed the difference. One flash in the dream showed Katie, Andie and the two boys playing at the pool, and Andie grabbing some other little boy around the neck and throwing him on the deck for trying to touch Thomas's dark skin. So real, I really wonder what I am supposed to learn from that dream. Am I too look into adopting one of the orphans from Haiti, should I be thinking about having another baby? Or should I be looking at adopting a boy from here in Canada? I have been unable to watch the news coverage of the human tragedy that has taken place in Haiti, but this boy in my dreams haunts me. I have donated money, I have prayed..is there something else I need to do?

How to Dance Naked to a Matthew Good Song

2009-08-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

Driving home tonight, the sky was clouded and the rain started to fall. Both girls were asleep in the back and I was letting the Ipod shuffle, as it should. The Matthew Good song, Born Losers came wafting into my quiet driving experience. If you know the song, then you know the beat is neither, fast nor slow, heart pounding or melodramatic in nature.

I thought about how my body my would move, and more importantly who would it move with? Myself, singular on the floor, pulsing to the beat of the crowd around me. With a gaggle of friends, sweaty, shoes sticky from the beer split on the floor. Or with a personal embrace from the decade long partner I share 3 children with?

No, alone in my car, or while my charges sleep, singing at the top of my lungs, car dancing. My voice cracking as I cannot reach the highest notes. My own trailer trash pedigree showing, as I drive through my nondescript, mono cultural town of 700. Stripped of all the baggage, commitments and expectations, I have piled onto my life, as nothing is ever enough, or good enough or done well enough. The car lulls into 5th gear, as I feel the tingles of the wheel in my hands.

I pull into the driveway, I once learned how to ride a bike down, as my children stirred from the end of a long drive, the fixtures of my life re-attached and normalcy returned, the dance ending until the next extended drive.

This is not a paid review. Drool, Sherri & Good Karma

2009-07-26T08:02:00.000-07:00

First, I want to clear the air. This is my first product review, so if I miss any of the important parts, please feel free to let me know.

I put it out into the Twitterverse, that my then 6 month old was using my breast as a chew toy. Blood, crying and tempers flaring...it was ugly! I received lots of hang in there's, I know what you mean...but one tweet @babyhuggables, said we have this product called a Droolie Boolie. Now if you know me at all, you know I love to shop. But I hesitate at online shopping, because of security reasons (my father is an ex police officer and scarred the day lights out of me about online predators).

I was desperate, the biting had put me on the edge, I mean I am usually close to the end, but this was torture. So I bought it, a Droolie Boolie. Approx 20.00 Canadian and it arrived at my house in 2 days later. I barely got it out of the package and Beckett started to chew to his hearts content. Yes, the saviour of my boobie had arrived.

Here is what the total package looked like.

But that's not why I was so impressed. Inside the package was a handwritten note, from the owner, Sherri. I am not talking about a "computer generated" handwritten note, this was real. It was a thank you, how to use and basic synopsis about the company. As well, information about other products and a free sample of baby soap. Sherri asked about Beckett and how the teething was going, and it I had any questions, concerns, comment to please let her know. Seriously? I never got a call from VW when I spent 40,000 on a car?

Never in my life had I received such excellent customer service, with such a personal touch. Sherri, knows what good customer service is and that is why I am a repeat customer. I know you are asking yourself..oh yeah she must work for them, or it must have been free...nope and nope. Although if Baby Huggables was in Canada, or needed a Canadian counterpart I would be first in line. This is my first product endorsement, hey you never know at some point in my blogging career I might get paid for it, but right now I am just sending my Good Karma, to Sherri at BabyHuggables.

Thanks Sherri, for making my small purchase important to you and your company, as well for making my son happy!

Check her out at : http://babyhuggables.com/

Top 10 Reasons I am Excited to Stay Home with My Family this Coming Weekend! Clifford Style!

2009-07-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Reasons I am Excited to Stay Home with My Family this Coming Weekend: Clifford Style!

1. Being home with my family makes me feel safe and loved.

2. I can stay in my PJ's, with my hair in a pony and watch cartoons with my kids all day!

3. My parents pamper my kids and I with breakfast, lunch and dinner...country style...ie big portions, lots of laughing, more people than seats at the table, and big desserts!

4. I can twitter, facebook and blog with no one bothering me for 10 minutes at a time or more.

5. I can organize my car, my purse and update my cozi account @ www.cozi.com..so I don't forget to do the things to do on my list of things to do!

6. I can go shopping at Gray's and buy lots of stuff that I really don't need but got a great deal on!

7. Anywhere in town I walk I see someone I know and they ask how my life/husband/children are or they tell me how their life/husband/wife/children are....as well as all the good gossip!

8. In the middle of the night when I wake up, I know I can go into any room in the house and have a conversation, no matter what time, or who's room I go in.

9. My children feel so relaxed and loved here, seeing them in my parents/sisters/brothers/auntuie arms makes the 6 hour drive worth it.

10. I want to go to Blogher '10 with the benefits of sponsorship, please leave a comment..the one with the most comments win...and if you know me you know how much I love to win! PLEASE RT, Facebook, blog, chat this up....Thanks!

My Sister...Chain of Confidence Challenge.

2009-07-15T04:31:00.000-07:00

I know. I know everyone has the best sister in the world but let me tell you about how mine inspires me. Being my older sister, she has been my caretaker since the age of the 3. Everything she did , I did , everything she wanted in pink, I wanted in baby blue and that was the way it was for the first 15 years of my life. My sister had a rough time during school because no one saw her creative side, her dramatic gifts and her singing talents. But most of all no one realized her compassionate side and how she could help others. She opened her first spa in a small town and instantly was recognized as a gifted intuitive. Her word of her talents spread quickly, and a loyal following of clients has made her spa a raging success. Sure, I could tell you about her challenges in life and her divorce but that would no be why she is my inspiration. She in my inspiration in spite of all the challenges she has face not because of them. She has raised a beautiful 10 year old independently and assisted me in delivering all three of my mini mee's. What more could I want from a sister, my inspiration.

Mamavation, I'm in it to win it!

2009-07-09T19:41:00.000-07:00

So this craziest thing happened to me last night at a twitter party. A group of really interesting moms go together and talked about losing weight, OK not just talked about it they developed a network of other moms, experts and gurus to help one mom become the first Mamavation mom. This mom would be the first social experiment of it's kind. And you know as well as I know that there is already one eager beaver out there who has gotten this kick ass posting and will probably win. But you know what? The scale in my bathroom tells me its time to make changes and the Non yummy mummy bathing suit I am wearing tells me it time to stop blaming the last pregnancy.Of course when I was younger, I always got the but you play contact sports so you need to be heavier than the rest of the girls. Really? Cause at 36, when I am making excuses why I don't want to go to weddings and family functions somethings gotta change. This is the first step of many, and if I am not chosen to be the first maybe I'll be the second, or third or I will keep trying until I succeed. Next step video, application and tweet, I am 1/4 of the way there..go mommy go!

2009-06-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

This is her, my Andie Pandie, my misunderstood middle child. At this point I had spun her around on that swing 15 times and still she wanted to go faster. I think she was just enjoying the one on one time with Mommy. I worry about her the most, with her sensitive little heart and the way she admires her big sister's every move. She loves her little brother at a distance and gives him pinch, poke or kick when she thinks I am not looking. Out of all, she is the most like her father, in looks and in temperament. She thinks nothing of throwing her clothes across the room because they are not the right shade of purple. Or telling me at the top of her lungs that only ugly people eat green grapes and that after they eat green grapes they poop green, with her hand on her hip and smile on her face. Yes, my Pandie. Her little feelings get hurt so fast that I have a hard time keeping up. She cries the instant she is over tired or feels the slightest hunger pain. I have to be honest and say I lose my temper with her the most and use my lion or teacher voice as my students call it...which in return, reduces her to tears. During the celebration of Father's Day, Andie decided she wanted to buy her Dad a pair of shoes, nope not a tie, or cologne..shoes. I have no idea where the idea come from or why she feels the need to buy him shoes, but on Monday it's off to the mall with Daddy. I did not spend this Father's Day with my Dad, and I miss him dearly...love you Dad! We opened up the cottage and had just an amazing time, the highlight was watching a Mommy turtle lay her eggs. Yes I have seen it a thousand times on TV but never in my 36 years have I witnessed it first hand....we were all in awe of this creature, digging out a nest for it's eggs, then dropping them in the nest (ok a hole) and touching them while puting sand over them. The girls and I said she was giving them one last hug, or nudge so the baby turtles knew they were loved. She worked for almost an hour while we watched place her eggs so carefully. I wondered if she would ever see most of them alive in our lake. Everyone is asleep here, Monday is coming ...fast!

2009-06-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

Just like me a Complicated Mama, another great blog from another amazing mama!

Great Wolf Lodge - Amazing!

2009-06-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

Two adults four children..Great Wolf Lodge..the adventure begins!

My wonderful sister and I went to GWL this week. I was able to get a corporate rate (teacher rate), so 149 a night. At the check in I was offered an upgrade from the front desk to a cub cabin (I think that is the name). We checked in at 1:00, when check in time is usually 4:00pm. When we got to the room it was AMAZING! There was 2 beds, one for baby and I and then a cabin....right in the room..really! It was like there was another room that looked like a cabin with 2 bunk beds and a single. They even had a TV and gaming system. Talk about a total score! Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners were all buffet, everyone got what they wanted. One night it was steak (made to order) and garlic mashed potatoes, salad and fresh fruit! The kids ate..whatever they wanted chicken fingers, french fries, fresh veggies, fresh fruit and of course the dessert bar! Ice cream, chocolate chips, marshmallows ..you name it , it was there. For 2 adults, 2 kids (4 - 12 ) and 2 under 4 on average it was 60.00 - 65.00 depending on the drinks....really worth it. I have to say, this is the place for the under 3 set chipmunk cove is outstanding, very well maintained and guarded. The rooms are big enough for 1 or 2 strollers, hallways are large enough for running children, the restaurant are very child friendly ..this is a paradise for a mom with little ones. There was a note under my door early the second morning offering us the same room at a preferred rate of 99.00...cheaper than the actual booking price....very cool..all said and done it was 400.00 for 2 nights 3 days of water park fun, this also included 3 sets of 2 lattes for my sis and I when energy was running low;). Well worth the money.. Oh yes, how could I forget, after driving to N Falls, getting everyone ready for the water..just needed my swim suit..I left is at home...panic! NO fear, GWL had a ton of selections for 39.00 yes it was the cheap rack but it worked for me. All in all well work the money, made for moms with little one, and GWL has amazing customer service..no I did not get paid to write this, this is my honest opinion..and yes we will be back..BTW Lindsay at the front desk is the angel you need after your long drive to GWL..she rocks, tell her Sherrie says hi...

2009-06-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

This is another wonderful blog I follow, she really is amazing!

2009-06-11T13:29:00.001-07:00

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_jvOce4MnFn8/ShCjSL0z26I/AAAAAAAAD4E/QTpbCZMYEC0/S220-h/Happy+Mom+Avatar

2009-06-11T10:47:00.000-07:00

Barba Poppa, Baby Teeth and my Hometown

2009-06-07T14:40:00.000-07:00

I now officially look like the Mom from Barba Poppas. (Yes I know the name really means cotton candy in French) The Mom-Tail, or constant ponytail as my husband calls is my best friend. It is easy and most mornings as I am rushing out the door the Mom-Tail, saves me from sparing a few precious moments for my self. No the real resemblance comes from the ample waist. There really is no middle ground, just a large middle section. " Oh no", my friends say "you are too hard on yourself ".....lies all lies, as tried on bathing suits getting ready for our Great Wolf Lodge adventures. Look closely as her smirk, that i the same face I make after my second glass of wine. No I only have 3 children, but if you count the dogs and my husband it feels like 7.

Baby teeth have arrived, well almost. Tried the baby Ambasol...I had limited success. Googled a couple of times to try to see what other good moms use, a few good ideas, but I am always up to try new things..let me know what works for you..I will try it and post my results.
My home town is a microcoism of worlds, this was never more true this morning. As we were headed to Timmies, we got stuck in traffic. OK not your normal traffic, as horses and buggies clogged the main arteries at all ends, I realized how much things had stayed the same here in town. Still no coffee shops, only one stop light that we had to fund raise for and pay for ourselves ( no I am not kidding) and the Mennonites. My two daughters watched in awe as the little girls filed past them wearing long black skirts, shawls, hair tied back and bonnet on. Five, six little ones, all squished in to the loaded down wagons as the horses lumbered along..church traffic, babies teeth and my expanding waist line. Let me know what you think..come on make a comment..Bueller, Bueller, Bueller

PTPA Giveaway

2009-05-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

I cannot say enough about PTPA, they are such a wonderful group of women to be associated with. We have been a testing family for almost a year now and my family and I have fully enjoyed the testing items. This is a free testing opportunity for you and your family, no fee, no shipping cost and it is fully Canadian owned and operated..check it out at the hyperlink below..tell them Sherrie sent you!

http://www.ptpamedia.com/blog/

One of Ottawa's best Foodies!

2009-05-17T19:37:00.000-07:00

I met this wonderful woman who can cook anything and make it taste amazing go to http://www.foodthought.com/forms/index.asp?tid=89...
sign up for her newsletter, you will never go hungry again I promise! Everyone is asleep, even the cat. Watching the 1/2 Mom and 1/2 ton Dad..very scary stuff. Baby Beckett pulled himself up on the ottoman this afternoon..very proud of my little boy. And the girls and I redecorated their room..loved it! Gotta love the cheap stuff at IKEA.

2009-05-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

Babt beckett turned 6 months old today, happy 1/2 year birthday! Call me crazy but having Beckett in my life makes me want to have more..yes I know 4 children is alot finacially, emotionally ect..but if you met him you would understand.

I used

Good Karma Ottawa Style

2009-05-03T05:43:00.000-07:00

Really all of this started almost 10 years ago, I tell this story to my class at the start of every school year. I was at Adas breakfast nook on Bank street with some of my husbands friends after a long night on Elgin. One of the 416ers as (Toronto boys) was talking about how he won a Timberland prize pack, and thought to my self why not me...where is my luck why do I not have any..deep thoughts for a Sunday morning. Regardless as we enjoyed our breakfast I noticed a homeless man across the street sitting in front of a huge Church ( were I grew up there were no homeless people but then again we have no traffic light either). Just as I was paying the bill I asked for a coffee to go and a muffin, as I was ahead of the boys I walked over to the man and gave both items to him. He looked at me with suspicion as I returned the look. Nothing was said, and I walked back across the street. The 416ers were not impressed, he could have hurt you, what were you thinking...then everything changed.

Since then, I win...everything, no really everything. I have met and socialized with Sting, BNL and even the Dali Lama, won trips, CDs, DVDs prize packs you name it. And yes there are haters out there, but my motto kill them with kindness. Most of the swag I win I give away to friends neighbours or donate it to charity.. anyone who can use it, and it all comes back to me in the end.

Now I work for a couple of different companies, no I do not get paid for what I do, but I am able to give away prizes to people who read my blogs. New products for families, new food items, lots of different stuff or swag as it were. Sign up read my blog tell me your stories of good karma.

As I sign off of my first official blog the sun is shinning, I have 3 healthy kids, who are already playing outside in the garden..and to me its all about good karma baby!