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Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) in Syracuse Review

Lyne Proulx
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12
Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) in Syracuse Review

We had the pleasure of visiting the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST)! You will find below a review of this amazing museum located in Syracuse, NY.

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) is located in the heart of downtown Syracuse in the Armory Square neighbourhood. The museum is very interactive, highlights different science exhibits, and offers activities, games, and hands on experiences for the whole family.

MOST Museum Syracuse

The Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) in Syracuse offers 6 different exhibits:

  1. Life Sciences
  2. Earth Science Discovery Cave
  3. The Science Playhouse
  4. Technotown
  5. Flight and Space
  6. The Dr. and Mrs. Herbert J. Silverman Planetarium
Life Sciences at MOST Museum

As you walk through each station of the Life Sciences exhibit, we learned the fundamentals of the human body and its organ systems. It was pretty impressive to see giant replicas of the human heart with veins, main arteries, and chambers, of the brain and the central nervous system as well as the respiratory system such as the nose, and the digestive and musculoskeletal systems. We were so surprise when we touched the huge nose, it sneezed on us!

Earth Science Discovery Cave

As you enter the life-sized Earth Science Discovery Cave at MOST, you venture through an extremely realistic cave that takes you in a journey to the centre of the Earth. It showcases fossils, what a cavern is all about, dripping water, a waterfall and the earth’s tectonic plates. Kids can dig in the sand to find bones as well as climb in the fossil pit. There is also a Coral Reef Adventure Tank with live coral and tropical fishes as well as a volcano.

Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) Syracuse Review
Photo credit: dpape / Foter / CC BY

The next exhibit will surely be the favourite one among kids; The Science Playhouse. It’s a giant climbing maze on 5 floors with fun filled obstacles and foam balls. Everyone is welcome to go in the playhouse, even adults! Kids must wear socks to take part in the Science Playhouse.

Technotown MOST Museum

Technotown is a cool Kinetic Sculpture with moving parts, rolling balls and yes, it makes noise. I stared at least 15 minutes and watched the balls go up and down, and sideways into the rails, and one actually switched a light. It is totally captivating, amazing, and amusing! Sometimes the balls hit each other, which stops one and sends the other rolling. You can also release the balls like a pinball machine into the Kinetic Sculpture.

Flight & Space MOST Museum

Next up is the Flight & Space exhibit where you can climb in a cockpit of an F -16 and use the controls to make it fly, dive, land and take off! You will learn about navigational controls and radar systems used in air travel.

The Dr. and Mrs. Herbert J. Silverman Planetarium will walk you through to a 24-foot planetarium dome where you can learn the constellations in a 3-D setting. Showtimes are Saturday and Sunday at 11:15am and 3:15pm.

Stan Munro Toothpicks Display MOST Museum

One of my favourite gallery at the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology is the model train exhibition with an electrical train travelling around a village, and I really enjoyed the incredible talent of Stan Munro for building the Eiffel Tower, the Yankess Stadium, and  the Statue of Liberty with only toothpicks!

Model Train Display- MOST Museum, Syracuse

As you enter the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), there is a gift show where you can purchase science gadgets, toys, rocks, and more! We have a family membership with 3 museums 1 card in Ottawa, so we were able to use it at MOST and get in free! For an additional fee, you can also see a movie in the Bristol IMAX Omnitheater.

You can park your vehicle on the streets nearby or there is a municipal parking 2 blocs from the museum. There is no canteen or cafeteria on site, only vending machines; however, you will find a subway and Starbucks across the museum.

There are lots of science exhibits to see, touch and explore for children of all ages at the MOST Museum!

Check out our other review we did in Syracuse at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo!

Dream Vacation: Club Med

Lyne Proulx
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Dream Vacation: Club Med

In May of this year, my husband and I were married for 20 years. Time definitely flies when you have a family as I am still trying to sink in this milestone. We were trying to decide if we should take some time alone without the kids and travel to a sunshine vacation spot. My husband is an accountant, so May is a pretty busy time of year for him and on top he helps out with the crops on the family farm. Every year, we seem to postpone a well deserve trip just for the two of us since other priorities seem to take over our schedules. I decided to start looking for this amazing destination now in the hopes of travelling within a year. A friend of mine recommended we look at Club Med as they have over 80 resorts around the world. I have to say that I don’t know much about them and started doing my homework.

They have so many locations to choose from that it’s difficult to just want to travel to one destination, and the photos on the site are so dreamy and beautiful! Now what is their all-inclusive vacation all about? From what I can read, their fees include everything from meals, open bar, accommodation, to activities, and more. Some flights and transfer might also be included. Contrary to my belief, they also offer family vacations and not just for couples. The offer many couples only resorts and many more all-inclusive vacation for families family-sized accommodations and with activities and children’s clubs for kids from four months to 17 years old, with age appropriate programs for them. Additionally, for families traveling with kids under four, their stay is free at the resorts.

Photo credit: jajay / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
Photo credit: jajay / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND

I came across the Maldives Vacation in Kani located in the middle of the Indian Ocean with your own private island. This is a family resort, but it can definitely serve as a couple. They have gardens and a spa, offer scuba diving, and a fine sandy beach. As you can see the bungalows are located in the water on stilts. After seeing this video, I think you, will be sold on this location:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjczU9Sc9bY&w=525&h=325

 

Photo credit: javajoba / Foter / CC BY
Photo credit: javajoba / Foter / CC BY

Another favorable resort is for couples only located in the Bahamas named Columbus Isle in the heart of the Caribbean. This resort offers massages facing the sea, scuba diving, tennis, water-skiing, sailing, and fitness, as well as a sandy beach and gardens. The bungalows have two floors and you can also choose 1 or 2 bedrooms.

Photo credit: acme / Foter / CC BY
Photo credit: acme / Foter / CC BY

On their site they are promoting a sale until August 27th, 2013 featuring seven night all-inclusive escapes starting from just $119 per person, per night during the most sought-after summer and winter travel dates. Interesting? Travel has to be made by February 12th, 2014. This deal is available to more than 50 Club Med snow and sun locations worldwide including the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, France, Morocco, Brazil, Indonesia, and Thailand. They have a location in Florida??? I have to get out more often. I am not sure if I can travel during those dates, but I will definitely keep it in mind. What can I say, you can never stop a girl from dreaming!

Now that I have shown these pictures to my kids, guess who wants to make this a family vacation? (To my loving children, please read the first paragraph over again.)

Have you booked through Club Med for your vacation?

If yes, I would like to hear which destination you chose and how you liked it.

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse Review

Lyne Proulx
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6
Pole Position Raceway Syracuse Review
Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 5

One of the new major attractions in Destiny USA mall is the Pole Position Raceway located on the most recent addition of the 3rd floor. It’s an awesome giant indoor race track for go karts. The Syracuse Tourism organization gave my family and I four tickets to try out go karting.

Check out our other review we did in Syracuse at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo!

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY

As you come in the raceway to the counter, you are greeted by a friendly staff. My first question was what do we need to be able to ride a kart? We must wear closed-toe shoes, the driver needs to be at least 48 inches tall, and that racers under the age of 18 must have a parent sign a minor release liability form. If we don’t have proper footwear, we can rent them. I was concerned about the fumes from the gas powered engines, but realized after talking with the staff that they are actually providing electric karts. Much better for the environment and my health.

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 4

She directs us to fill out an online form on the computers provided at the Raceway. Once my husband, son, and daughter are done, we went back to the counter to give our tickets to reserve our spots, and take a seat alongside the race track. Drivers are paired with friends, individuals, or group of drivers. The maximum number of drivers I saw racing together were 10, while my family shared the track with 3 other racers. We waited about 45 minutes before our names were called. We were listed on the screen with the names of the drivers in the group, once we reach first, we are called to head out to the driver reserved area to watch an educational and safety video before we grab our helmets.

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 2

I stayed back to take photos and film a video. The time has come for them to have a seat in their kart and wait for the start. One by one, they slowly enter the track, but once they are all driving, the staff at the race track activate the karts, so they can reach maximum speed. Adult kart speed can go as much as 45MPH while a kid kart is up to 25 MPH. The race lasts about 10 minutes as they drive around the track 14 times. Every time a racer gets out of control, dismantles the circuit, or has an accident, a staff slows down all the go karts. Another staff will go to the scene and help the driver(s) or put the guard rail back in place. And they are back racing!

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 3

As they head out the race track, they are given a SpeedSheet. Pole Position Raceway uses a high-tech Apple-based timing and scoring system to keep track of race results. The result sheet shows their fastest lap time, average lap time, overall race results, and more.

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 6

KART SPEEDS UP TO 25MPH
48” and taller

  • Members:$16
  • Non-Members:$20
Pole Position Raceway Syracuse, NY 7

The Pole Position Raceway was a huge hit with my family and we will definitely go back next time we visit Syracuse!

For a more authentic feel of what racing with go karts is all about, you can watch this video of my family driving around the track.

Disclosure: I received free tickets to the Pole Position Raceway by the Syracuse Tourism Organization. However, my opinions are 100% my own , and only recommend products or services I believe will be beneficial to my readers.

How To Pick The Right Hotel For Your Sports Team

OMCGuest
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How To Pick The Right Hotel For Your Sports Team

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The team is on the road, and has a big game coming up tomorrow. As a coach or manager, you want to get the athletes settled into their hotel rooms before bed check, so they can get plenty of rest. You need a hotel that is friendly toward sports teams, and has the right facilities to keep the athletes entertained and well fed until bed time.

Comfortable rooms. The rooms will need to have queen or king sized beds, for those large sized athletes. If those rooms have some kind of movies available, it will help the team settle down early. A hotel that can accommodate a large block of rooms in one area will help the coaches make sure everyone is accounted for at bed check.

What about food? A whole team of athletes will go through a lot of food – as the coach you’ve seen that many times. The hotel where you stay has to have an in house restaurant – you don’t want the hassle of loading the team back on the bus to go somewhere for meals. If the hotel restaurant has home style cooking, like the one at Accent Inns, you know the players will get lots of good food that will help them carb up for the game, and not upset their stomachs. You don’t want to be in a hotel that only has some exotic menu that the athletes won’t eat.

What about WiFi? As a coach, you’d prefer to take away all iPads and other internet choices for the team, but for a lot of the players, surfing the net is their way to settle down, so you want to make sure the hotel has WiFi available. It’s just another amenity that will make your life easier.

A peaceful atmosphere. The players will be jittery before the game, and if they win, all excited when the team comes back to the hotel after the victory. You don’t want a hotel that’s in the middle of a party zone where the players will get even more stimulated and noisy. The hotel will need to be a quiet place – a family atmosphere, where the players feel at home and peaceful, and are encouraged to be quiet and settle down.

Other amenities. A sports team has a certain set of requirements for the facilities at their hotel. The trainer will want a hotel with a laundry – he will have a lot of dirty uniforms to clean up, especially if the team is on a winning streak and there are additional games to play. If there is a workout facility that restless players can use to bleed off some pre-game jitters that would be great too. Parking – does the hotel have enough room to park the team bus? You don’t want to be driving around trying to find a place to stash the bus for the night.

Looking out for the costs. The players don’t see anything about costs – they just eat a lot and settle into their rooms to think about the game. But the coach has to worry about the money side, so finding a hotel that has team rates is a big factor in choosing where to stay. Does the hotel provide a break for a large number of rooms, booked for several nights? Teams play regular schedules, so you’ll be coming back to this area a lot. Try to find a hotel like Accent Inns, which has a frequent stay program for a sports team. If you get to cash in on each stay, that saves the coach and the program money, which is always a bonus.

A familiar place. With all the right amenities and atmosphere, the team can stay at the same hotel for each away game. The players will settle down more if they’re in that familiar place and already know the lay of the land. If they know the menu, the workout facilities and that they will be in comfortable rooms, it will allow them to be better prepared for the game. If the team travels to different locations, and they have that same brand of hotel available, it makes life on the road just that much easier.

For a team coach, life is all about making choices and decisions. If your team has a familiar and comfortable hotel for away games, that’s just one less choice the coach has to make. The coach rests more easily knowing that the lodging item has been addressed, and his team will be well rested, fed and prepared for the big game – which is what a coach really wants out of a great hotel.

Carol Atkins is a freelance writer for AccentInns.com. She has been traveling the world for much of her life and enjoys of all types of adventures including island hopping, cruising, hiking and being lazy on the beach J. Follow her on Twitter @atkins_carol

Photo credit: D.Clow – Maryland / Foter / CC BY-NC

Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

Raising Healthy Kids
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Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

Summer snacks have become an expected ‘treat’ for kids at sports events and in between meals. Sometimes having too many of these ‘so called’ healthy packaged snacks leaves no room for a nutritious dinner. By offering healthy summer snacks that are fun and fruity, kids are fuelled during get togethers and sport games.

Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

It seems that somewhere along the line our busy active kids and busy working parents schedules took priority. By doing so, summer snacks turned into packaged processed treats and water as the beverage of choice got replaced with sugar filled ‘juice’ boxes or artificially coloured ‘punch’ in a pouch. These low nutrient, high sugar options are not healthy choices for our growing children!  

With a bit of planning, we can give kids a snack that will replenish their energy. It will keep them on the playground or splashing in the pool and hydrate them without the sugar fix. A simple bowl of apples will give the kids vitamins, fiber and natural sugar without the added chemicals from artificial colours and flavours.

You might be surprised to learn that kids love healthy summer snacks!

There are lots of healthy snack idea’s perfect for the sport game or a playdate. These are our favourites that will keep the kids going and have all the parents cheering from the sidelines!

Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

Watermelon cubes & grapes . . . frozen!

Don’t fill your cooler with frozen popsicles or freezes laden with artificial ingredients. Surprise them with chunks of watermelon and grapes from the freezer!

Fruit Kabobs

Fruit is transformed from ‘fine’ to ‘funtastic’ when it’s on a stick! Watermelon, strawberries, grapes, apples and cantaloupe all make great fruit kabobs and it only take a second to prepare.

Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

Festive Fruit Water

Buy a clear jug and fill it with fruit flavoured water such as strawberries, blueberries, lemon slices and lime wedges then fill with ice water. Who wouldn’t want to try that after a hot half on the soccer pitch? The longer it sits, the more the flavours will come out.

Bananas Boats

Banana boats are easy to make! Cut bananas in half lengthwise and top with non peanut soy spread (like Wow Butter) and add a few chocolate chips. Kids get all the energy boosting benefits from the banana, protein from the soy butter, and a sweet treat from the chocolate chips.

Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!
Simple Summer Snacks That Keep Kids Going!

Munchie Mix

Throw together some healthy dry cereal you have on hand, dried fruit and the odd mini M&M for a bowl of snacks everyone will crowd around. High fibre, low sugar cereals such as wheat squares, toasty o’s and corn squares combined with dried apricots, cherries, cranberries or blueberries and a few coloured chocolates for fun, makes a healthy munchie mix sure to please a crowd.

Be the snack super star this soccer season by bringing the kids fruit served in a fun new way, just adding a stick and serving it as a kabob brings new life to boring fruit! You will be amazed at how much kids enjoy eating healthy snacks during the summer!

Family Friendly Montreal Restaurants You Should Try

Lyne Proulx
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5
Family Friendly Montreal Restaurants You Should Try

With summer in full swing, it’s time to get out and start exploring. What better place to do a day trip with little ones than Montreal? You can also rent out a great car there and roam freely to soak up as much as possible. While driving around town, you should check out some fun attractions to do with the kids. You will find below 4 family friendly Montreal restaurants you should try that are also affordable and delicious places to eat with kids in tow.

Family Friendly Montreal Restaurants You Should Try
View from Mont Royale

Family Friendly Montreal Restaurants You Should Try

1. Cocktail Hawaii

If you find yourself exploring the shops on St Catherine street in downtown Montreal, check out Cocktail Hawaii at 1645 Boulevard De Maisonneuve Ouest near rue Guy. They are known for their fresh juices, crepes, smoothies and desserts. It’s been around for ages and is a favourite spot for Concordia students. The atmosphere is very family friendly with colourful decor and large stuffed animals swinging off fake palm trees. The prices are great and all the ingredients are fresh with the crepes and smoothies made in front of you.

2. Restaurant 786

If you are a fan of ethnic cuisine, check out Restaurant 786 on Jean Talon (address is 768 rue Jean-Talon Ouest). It is an Indo-Pakistani restaurant serving up traditional meals like biryani (rice with marinated meat), nihari (tender beef stew), chapli kebabs (round, flat beef patty), bbq whole fish and chicken charga (bbq whole chicken). Although the decor is nautical, the restaurant has a limited fish and seafood menu. The prices are very reasonable and the food can be spicy. They have a separate family section where you could eat in privacy. If the little ones are too exhausted to eat in the restaurant, you can order ahead and pick up some food to take home. Be sure to check out the Indian, Greek, and Eastern European stores along the Jean Talon strip to complete your exotic journey to Montreal’s most multicultural neighbourhood.

3. Jardin Nelson Restaurant

For those hot summer days and cool nights, visit the outdoor oasis of Jardin Nelson restaurant which is situated in Montreal’s Old Part, just off Cartier Square. On weekends they sometimes have live music and delicious sweet or savoury crepes on the menu. At night, the outdoor garden terrasse is lit up with strings of lights and the whole atmosphere feels like an outdoor party.

bagels

4. Original Fairmount Bagel Bakery

Watch how bagels are made in an old fashioned wood burning oven at the Original Fairmount Bagel Bakery at 74 Fairmount West. This family-owned business still makes bagels which are rolled by hand. The Factory started up in 1919 and has been at this location since 1949.

Family Friendly Montreal Restaurants You Should Try

These family friendly restaurants in Montreal are sure to please everyone in your household! Bon appetit!

Ambereen Rahim

Double Tree Hotel by Hilton Syracuse Review

Lyne Proulx
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24
Double Tree Hotel by Hilton Syracuse Review

The Syracuse Tourism office invited my family and I to visit Syracuse for a weekend from Friday July 12th to Sunday July 14th. Yes, being a blogger does have its advantages as this was a very sweet package deal!  I am always trying to find the best giveaways for our followers, so I have to say that it was nice for a change to receive free accommodations and attractions for my family.

Double Tree Hotel Syracuse, NY 2

We had the pleasure of staying at the Double Tree Hotel by Hilton. Double Tree is located about 10 minutes from Downtown Syracuse in a corporate park just off Interstate 90 and near the 690. There are many restaurants and fast food chains situated near the hotel. The area surrounding the Double Tree actually has lots of greenery and was very quiet. We even saw a hare hiding in the bushes near the front doors!

We arrived at at the hotel around 3 pm on Friday July 12th.  Before we unpacked the van, I went to the reception to see if our room was ready. I was told it would be about 10 minutes before they would be available as the room attendant is preparing the last finishing touch. They… yes, you have 2 connecting rooms. I told the staff, there was a mistake, and she repeated 2 rooms one with a king bed and the other with 2 double beds have been reserved for your family. I guess I missed that one! By the time my husband and kids got our luggage, I was given my cards to our rooms and 4 warm chocolate chip cookies. What a nice way to welcome your guests! Were they ever yummy!

Double Tree Hotel Syracuse, NY- Main Lobby & Restaurant

Amazing Staff

We head out to our rooms when I am greeted in the hallway by the General Manager, Thomas Olsen. He welcomes my family and I to the Double Tree Hotel and mentions that he gave us two rooms because he thought we would have more privacy. If I needed anything else, he told me not to hesitate to get a hold of him or his Manager on duty that weekend. Can you tell that the staff at the hotel are very courteous and take care of their guests? Yes, I am here to review their hotel, but never before has a GM approached me while visiting a site or hotel! Let alone offer me 2 rooms!

We arrive on our floor and, as I am just about to open the door, Stephen, the room attendant, cleaning another room, comes out and says he will be right back with more water bottles and Hershey Chocolate Bars, for he didn’t realize there will be four of us staying in the rooms. Yes, free water bottles and chocolate bars awaits you! He promptly returns with the items and asked if we need anything else. I mention a few more towels would come in handy, and in a flash he comes back with them. Wow, I am speechless! We must go on vacation to the States more often, since no housekeeping personnel has never even said hello to me in any Canadian hotel. If you have been following my blog on #visitsyracuse, this is my first trip in the USA since the mid 1980’s.

Staff have been totally amazing since the first foot I have stepped at the hotel until I left on Sunday. I have seen both Managers on duty, Kevin at the reception desk, and Matt at the Regatta Bar and Grille Restaurant for dinner and during the morning brunch helping out the staff and acknowledging their guests. Unbelievable! Dan, the Reception Clerk, and Bonnie, the waitress and David, the Chef  at the Regatta were also extremely friendly, energetic, pleasant, and respectful. I honestly have to give their staff a rating of 10 out of 10! They really step it up a notch to make you feel welcome!

Double Tree Hotel Syracuse, NY

Amazing Hotel & Rooms

This smoke free and modern hotel has 250 guest rooms with either one king or two double-sized beds, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, an alarm clock radio with MP3, coffee maker, hair dryer, an iron/ironing board, data ports, two phone lines, high-speed internet access, 900 MGHTZ cordless phones, Herman Miller work chairs, and more. You can enjoy the relaxing courtyard area with seating, plus not 1 but 2 the heated pools, an indoor one with a whirlpool spa and the outdoor pool with a sundeck. You can dine all day at the Regatta Bar & Grille, offering breakfast, cocktails, and light food. They also offer room service, a complimentary 24-hour fitness center, complimentary 24-hour business center and a self-service pantry. The internet speed in our rooms was fast and reliable.

Their rooms feature the Doubletree Sweet Dreams Bed and are really comfortable; not too soft, not too firm just perfect. We did not hear any noise from guests in other rooms nor the shower running from the rooms above or beside us. The air conditioning is beside the window and shouts the cold air in front of your bed and not directly in your face like some hotels. I actually make a call to the hotels prior to reserving to see where the air conditioner is located, and if it’s right beside the bed, I book elsewhere. I am not interested in waking up with a soar neck or catching a cold. There is also a thermostat on the wall that you can regulate by degrees, and not a setting on the machine with low, medium, high or really what it is, loud, louder, and loudest noise! It does make some noise, but it’s minimal and didn’t stop us from falling asleep. The carpet was clean with no stains. The bathroom has a modern look, enough counter space for two girls to share, and the bath had no mildew around the ceramic shower tiles!

Double Tree Hotel Room Service Syracuse, NY

Amazing Food

We ate at the Regatta both mornings and chose the breakfast buffet on Saturday and the Sunday Brunch. They offer a wide selection of bread, muffins, fruits and cereals, as well as scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, pancakes, omelettes, and home made waffles. I am still craving the mouth watering omelette made right in front of me by Chef David! I ordered one cooked with fresh ingredients on both days. Succulent! The waffles were so light and fluffy that they melted in your mouth. To top it off, you could also add chocolate chips, jam, icing sugar, and more! I strongly recommend having breakfast at the hotel, you won’t be disappointed!

You can also order a la carte creations for breakfast or throughout the day; local specialties, steaks, seafood, pasta, comfort foods, and signature salads. They served a Roast Beef Buffet on Saturday evening, though we did not eat there, however my mom did, and she mentioned it was delicious. They offered pasta, chicken, Roast Beef, salads, desserts and more! She even wondered how come we didn’t have dinner at the Regatta! We ordered room service instead after a fun, but exhausting day at DestinyUSA. The kids and hubby wanted a pizza and I ordered a club sandwich, they were both delicious. To my surprise, when we came back to our hotel on Saturday evening, bottles of specialty water and a plate of cheese and crackers were waiting for us! Thank you Kevin, greatly appreciated after a long day of visiting attractions!

Double Tree Hotel Syracuse, NY- Brunch

My mother, Christine and her husband, Sylvain paid us a visit on Saturday evening. They arrived earlier in the day to shop at the Waterloo Outlets and Destiny USA, and stayed overnight at the Double Tree Hotel.  It was pleasant to be all together!

Double Tree Hotel Syracuse, NY 3

As you can see, we had an amazing stay and will definitely go back again! I would not hesitate to recommend staying at the Double Tree Hotel for both businesses or families visiting Syracuse. Happy Family Travels!

Disclosure: I received free accommodations and breakfasts at the Double Tree Hotel by Hilton by the Syracuse Tourism Organization. However, my opinions are 100% my own , and only recommend products or services I believe will be beneficial to my readers.

When My New House Became My Home

Mommy Hen
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When My New House Became My Home

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Big Man and I made the mother of all purchases this past December – we bought our first house.

With an active 3-year old and a lifestyle that requires us to be involved in a pile of different projects, we were seriously running out of room.  Our apartment was beautiful – overlooking the canal, centrally located – everything you could ask for.  But we were starting to get on each other’s nerves. So, in a matter of a month and a half, we found a realtor, found a house, packed up our lives and moved.  It was exhilarating – and TERRIFYING.

But now, almost seven months later, we’re adjusted.  We have lots of work to do on the place yet, but it’s ours now – and it’s certainly  more comfortable than it was when we walked in the front door for the first visit (which was pretty darned comfortable, and how we knew this was The One).

We moved December 1st.  The winter was so much easier, having the room for me to work at nights when I needed to, without having to ask Big Man to keep the TV on low. I had Girls’ Night with my friends, and Big Man had Boys Night with his – ON THE SAME NIGHT – and no one tripped over each other (and Little Man slept blissfully in his room, none the wiser).

So, since then, who’s thrived the most?  Is it Big Man, who’s simultaneously stymied and motivated by the work a home requires? Or is it me, who’s still trying to figure out where things should live and confounding everyone by changing things around all the time?  The answer, is neither of us.  The answer is Little Man.  He’s the one who’s thriving the absolute most, by having the space to do what he needs to do.

Little Man now has the elbow room to grow.  He wants to play trains? He goes to his playroom.  He wants to be quiet and hang out? He has his little recliner in the living room. He wants to run around? He has the backyard.

The kicker was last month. The moment I knew we had a true home was on the day before Father’s Day  – we’d decided to celebrate then, because the weather was perfect and the next day was supposed to be rainy.

We got an inflatable pool for Little Man.  Not too huge – but big enough for Little Man and a few other friends, if need be. That was huge – suddenly, going out to get wet to cool off didn’t have to be an OUTING – no packing bags, no remembering snacks, towels, plastic bags for wet clothes.  No car trips. No scrambling for shade.  It was all right there!

Big Man was reading on the deck.  I was BBQing something.  Little Man was splashing away.  I called out to everyone that lunch was being served on the deck – we gathered around the patio table and, laughing and joking away, we had a wonderful lunch.  Then Little Man jumped back in the pool, Big Man went back to his book.  And I sat on the deck.

And I breathed.  Deeply.  The air smelled like sunshine, sunscreen, BBQ and flowers.

And I listened. Deeply.  The air sounded like splashing, play and birds calling out to one another.

And I smiled.

And I knew  – I was home.

 

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum, Review

Christine
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Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum, Review

It was a pleasure to head out to the Exporail, the Canadian Railway Museum, in St. Constant and review their activities and exhibitions.

Childhood Train Memories

Growing up, I feel in love with train travelling. Actually I was 5 years old, and alone on my first trip on a train leaving Montreal for Quebec City.

My parents left me under the supervision of the train master and he took me to a seat near a window. I was all dressed up, and so excited, so much that I forgotten what a 3 hour train ride would entitled, food and drink. This is when I found out that I had no money in my little purse.

Exporail St-Constant

Nevertheless, this was a minor detail, hey, the train was leaving the station, and nothing else mattered. I sat there quietly admiring my hometown through a different route, not at all intimidated by adults smiling at my composure.

Exporail St-Constant

After all, being raised with adults, was quite normal, and I knew how to behaved nicely. To my surprise, arrives, sandwiches, soft drinks, chocolate, that I gracefully was thankful for; this was the most memorable trip to my grand-parent’s house. Of course, not the last one either.

My uncle was waiting for me at the Quebec’s station, a little worried, on the about’s of a young child’s travelling at such a young age. The train master, reassured him, keeping a watchful eye at a little distance. As I got older, was told that passengers could not believe how nice children can be, so they left me to fully enjoy this experience.

Visiting Exporail in St. Constant brought back these childhood train memories!

Exporail Review

Viewing trains, locomotives, trams of the older days, reminded me of how much time flies. This Exporail museum is interesting as many cars are opened to visitors, with 2 cars that children can play in, you may also spot a locomotive’s motors, and even the futuristic Metro car.

Exporail St-Constant

Visitors embark on the tram that circles the different sites, allowing to view all the surroundings, and makes frequent stops in order to enter the buildings. What a pleasure to sit and enjoy the ride.

Children will love seeing how letters were sent to Santa Clause in the older days.

Exporail St-Constant

There are several trains outside and inside hangers, the tram makes frequent stop so we can explore a station, that boasts 2 floors of artifacts and live media historical data.

Exporail St-Constant

Walking through a diesel locomotive, what a thrill, and the noise is included.

This is a museum dedicated to enhance parents and children’s knowledge adding a fun time doing so. I definitely recommend visiting the Exporail with your family!

Cirque du Soleil’s Totem Review ~ A Summer Must See!

Tracy (Redefined)
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2
Cirque du Soleil’s Totem Review ~ A Summer Must See!

I am always imprIMG-20130711-00166essed with Cirque du Soleil, not necessarily for the show itself, but because their venue is always filled with colourful characters and unique souvenirs that are nothing short of art themselves. There is nothing grander than attending a circus in a big top tent filled with antique popcorn makers, trunks and handmade costume masks. The mood inside the “Grand Chapiteau” was filled with excited anticipation on opening night of Cirque du Soleil’s Totem and the show did not disappoint!

An eclectic mix of arts, entertainment, athleticism, and humour, Cirque du Soleil’s Totem creatively tells the story of mankind from the planet’s amphibian beginnings to the men in monkey suits that humans have become. Like all Cirque du Soleil shows, Totem is so much more than colourful costumes set alongside an impressive set and catchy musical backdrop. It is a story brought to life by the jaw-dropping talents of the show’s performers. Each act will not only have you questioningOttawa-20130711-00174 how someone can ride a unicycle while balancing and catching bowls on their head, but will also have you questioning when we became such an amazing species.

Totem’s storyline seamlessly travels between science and truth and explores the ties between humans and other species; all the while demonstrating mankind’s desire to dream and experiment with our limitations and potential.

The acts were all unique and impressive, but for me the most memorable act was that of the crystal ladies. They emerge wearing sparkling costumes and effortlessly put on on a dazzling show in which they spin and juggle cloth squares on their feet and hands at high-speed all the while lying on their backs. They flawlessly toss and catch each other’s squares while maintaining the high-speed spinning as well as their own balance. Their act was just one of many that demonstrate the strength, hard work and talent of each performer.

A comical side cirque du soleilnote to the expected athleticism of any Cirque show was the crass Pippo Crotti. His audience antics before the show started had the crowd instantly fall in love with him, and his several comic appearances throughout the show were always greeted with smiles and laughter. Pippo proves there is something for everyone in Totem. Unlike some of Cirque du Soleil’s more complex shows, older children would also appreciate the show’s talents and storyline (they even have booster seats available for children).

Totem has become my new favourite Cirque du Soleil show. I think I said “wow” at least a dozen times throughout the night, photo_1whether it was because of the man and woman acting out a love story high above the circus floor on a fixed trapeze or because of the wedding ceremony played out while on roller skates on a small round platform shaped like a drum – every act had me holding my breath in awe.

Cirque du Soleil’s Totem runs until August 4, 2013 under the big top beside the Canadian Tire Centre. For more information on the show or to purchase tickets visit: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/totem

25 Refreshing Flavoured Water Recipes

Lyne Proulx
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8
25 Refreshing Flavoured Water Recipes

Turn a plain pitcher of water into a healthy, inexpensive, and refreshing beverage! This is water with subtle flavours infused into it. The water will not be sweet. I enjoy adding lemon to my water, but there are so many other fruit combinations that you can create. You will find below 25 refreshing flavoured water recipes to enjoy all year long!

Refreshing Flavoured Water Recipes

Fruit Infused Water Combinations

What you need:

  • jars or pitcher -You an use Mason jars or a pitcher.  You can also purchase fruit infusion pitcher.
  • muddler or wooden spoon for mashing fruit and herbs
  • water -I use bottle water since we have well water, but regular tap water is fine.
  • fruit –anyone except bananas, and make sure they are ripe. You can mix and match citrus, watermelons, and berries, or pineapple and melons.
  • herbs –they are optional, but will add taste to the water.  I like mint, but you can try rosemary, sage, thyme, and tarragon.
Refreshing Flavoured Water Recipes
Refreshing Flavoured Water Recipes

How To Make Flavoured Water

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of fruits (see combinations below)
  • If herbs are mentioned, add 2
  • 8 cups of water

Instructions

Combine all the ingredients in a pitcher. Muddle to release the juices or leave the fruit to float in the pitcher.

 25 Infused Water Combinations

  1. Watermelon and pineapples
  2. Lemon and Strawberries or Raspberries
  3. Lemons and limes
  4. Ginger and lemon
  5. Orange and pineapple
  6. Watermelon and cucumber
  7. Cucumber, lemon, and mint
  8. Cantaloupe and watermelon
  9. Cucumber and rosemary
  10. Thyme and blackberries
  11. Papaya and mango
  12. Lemon and blueberry
  13. Pineapple and mango
  14. Cherry and lime
  15. Watermelon and mint
  16. Orange, Cucumber, and Ginger
  17. Cucumber, Pear and Mint
  18. Raspberry, Blackberry, and Strawberry
  19. Blackberry, Lemon, and Mint
  20. Pineapple, Lime, and Strawberry
  21. Grapefruit and Mint
  22. Strawberry and Orange
  23. Blackberry, Lemon, and Mint
  24. Pineapple, Orange, and Ginger
  25. Watermelon and Rosemary

 Enjoy!

Have you tried infused water before?  What is your favourite combination?

DK Canada Disney Pixar Books Review

OMCGuest
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3
DK Canada Disney Pixar Books Review

My boys were so excited when the DK Disney Pixar books arrived in the mail. I was fortunate enough to get the opportunity from Ottawa Mommy Club to review Monsters University – The Essential Guide and Pixar Character Encyclopedia.

Reading DK Books

Monsters University – The Essential Guide came at just the right time.  We had just seen the movie a few days earlier.  The kids were excited to  look through the book and see how much they already knew and how many new fun facts they could learn. The Essential Guide dedicates a page to each character including each character’s scare score. Of course Mike Wazowski’s Scare score  is only 5% whereas Sulley’s  score is  85%.

Sully

We also learn a lot of cool stuff about the teams like Oozma  Kappa, EEK, PNK, HSS etc. We get to discover what kind of Scarer we are, what it takes to become a Scarer, win the Scare Games and make some expected and unexpected friends along the way.

The Disney Pixar Encyclopedia features more than 200 of Disney Pixar’s beloved characters. The book is organized in chronological order starting with Toy Story and ending with Brave.  Sequels such as Cars 2 make the book but are included with the original movie.  Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc. and Cars made the top of my boys’ list.  They enjoyed reading about the characters overall but one of my personal favourites was the ‘Did you know?’ about each character. For example, did you know that “Dory is a regal tang. These fish have a powerful smell and can be poisonous, causing sickness and headaches if eaten”? I didn’t.  Is it mentioned in the movie? If so I really don’t remember.

NEMO

I did know this one though.  “If Buzz is switched to Spanish mode, his personality changes dramatically – he becomes romantic, poetic, and loves to dance”.

If you or your kids are fans of Monsters Inc./Monsters University and the fabulous Disney Pixar movies I’d highly recommend both these books.

Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent

Dr. Ellen Simone, Naturopath
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10
Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent

Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent

Summertime brings sunshine, flowers and mosquitoes! Insect repellent spray is commonly used to ward off those pesky critters and the itching, allergic reactions and possible exposure to West Nile Virus that can come along with a mosquito bite.

Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent
Essential oils bottle.

Although it is important to protect against the potential harmful effects of mosquito bites, it is also important to protect ourselves from unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals.

What is DEET?

A common chemical found in insect repellents N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, also known as DEET. DEET affects a mosquito by dulling its senses which inhibits their instinct to bite.

When DEET is applied directly onto the skin it can be absorbed into the body.  Potential reactions to DEET include skin rashes, lethargy, muscle spasms, nausea, irritability, insomnia and seizures. These DEET toxicity symptoms can be avoided by using essential oils as an alternative.

7 Tips to avoid toxic side effects from DEET containing insect repellents:

  1. Keep spray off of the face and out of the eyes.
  2. Do not spray repellent on children’s hands because they are likely to rub their eyes and put their hands in their mouths.
  3. Wear long-sleeved clothing and apply repellent on the fabric rather than on the skin.
  4. Use a product with a lower concentration of DEET on small children and if you are pregnant.
  5. Avoid inhaling and ingesting repellents.
  6. Children age two and younger should not have insect repellent applied to their skin more than once in a 24-hour period.
  7. Wash repellent off your skin after the risk of an insect is gone.
Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent
Essential Oils, a Natural Alternative to Insect Repellent

What is an essential oil?            

An essential oil is extracted from a plant and highly concentrated. They must be diluted before used topically because they are toxic if ingested. If ingestion occurs, call your doctor immediately.

Essential oil insect repellents may not last as long and may need to be reapplied more frequently than DEET especially after exercise and swimming.

How to make your own essential oil insect repellent

Ingredients:

  • 10-25 drops total of essential oil combination
  • 2 tablespoons of a carrier substance
  • Small, dark glass spray bottle

List of insect repellent essential oils:

  • Citronella
  • Clove oil
  • Geranium oil
  • Lemon eucalyptus oil
  • Lemongrass oil
  • Neem oil
  • Peppermint oil
  • Tea tree oil
  • Thyme oil

List of carrier substances:

  • Olive oil
  • Sunflower oil
  • Vodka
  • Witch hazel

Have you used essential oils as insect repellant?

Chef Salad In A Jar Recipe

Lyne Proulx
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11
Chef Salad In A Jar Recipe

Do you need more lunch and on-the-go meal ideas? If you are looking to add a more healthy meal to your day, then you need to add salad in a jar to your weekly meal prepping. There is nothing more filling then a mason jar full of your favourite vegetables. You will find below a delicious chef salad in a jar recipe to make for your lunch!

Salad in a Jar Meal Prep

Meal Prep: you can make enough for weekly lunches and add a few more in for dinners.

Easy Cleanup: mason jars don’t stain or hold lingering odors.

Money Saving: if you have a habit of buying meals and snacks when at work or on the go then

Ingredients: make each jar different using a variety of fruits and vegetables you have on hand. You don’t want to tire of the same salad each day.

chef salad in a jar

Salad Making Tips

  1. Always add the dressing to the bottom and the lettuce on top of the jar. No one wants a soggy salad.
  2. Use a wide mouth mason jar.
  3. Make your salads according to which vegetables last longer with those that are similar in shelf/fridge life.
  4. All vegetables and fruit have different shelf lives so when making your salad recipe keep this in mind and eat your salads accordingly.

Salad in a Jar: Vacuum Sealed 

How long will a salad in a jar last in the fridge? You can store your jar in the fridge for about 3-4 days or longer which is best if you vacuum seal the Mason Jars. You can purchase a FoodSaver® Wide Mouth Jar Sealer with a vacuum sealer kit. This process will help your healthy salad in a jar remain fresh and crisp.

Salad In A Jar 101

If you like this recipe for Chef Salad in a Jar, check out my Shrimp Cobb Salad and Kale Sweet Potato Salad. While these aren’t salads in a jar, you certainly could add them as well.

Ingredients For A Salad In A Jar

The salad dressing must always be at the bottom of the mason jar as you don’t want to make the vegetables and lettuce soggy.

Choose vegetables you like such as:

  • Lettuce (always at the top of the jar)
  • Shredded carrots
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Green Peppers
  • Cucumbers
  • mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Peas
  • Corn
  • Cauliflower
  • Broccoli
  • Zucchini

Add Proteins

You can also add cheese, quinoa, hard boiled egg, meat, tofu, and more!

How to Make a Salad in a Jar

How To Make A Chef Salad In A Jar

Wash and cut your vegetables, and also spin your lettuce.

How To Layer Salad In A Jar

Put in the jar from bottom to top (very important and the below is an example for a Salad in a Jar)

  • 2 tbsp of Dressing such as Ranch, Italian, French, etc. (always at bottom)
  • 2 tbsp Shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp Cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp Green Peppers
  • 2 tbsp Cucumbers
  • 2 tbsp mushrooms
  • 1 tbsp Onions
  • 1/2 to 1 cup of your favourite Lettuce (always the last ingredient to add)

Ready To Eat Salad Recipe with Lettuce

When ready to eat the chef salad just shake the salad in the jar, pour it on a place, and eat!

Salad In Mason Jar Recipe Tips

  1. You can add any ingredients you would like as long as you remember that the salad dressing has to be at the bottom and the lettuce at the top of the jar.

Salad In A Jar Ideas

You can make many salad recipes for dinner including:

salads in a jars

I hope you enjoyed my Chef Salad In A Jar Recipe as much as I did! If you make it, please share your photos with us on Facebook or Twitter! Also, check out all of our other recipes!

salads in a jars

Chef Salad In A Jar Recipe

Lyne Proulx
Do you know how to make a chef salad in a jar? It's a great lunch idea and you can prepare a few jars and keep them in the refrigerator for 3 days.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Lunch
Cuisine American, Canadian
Servings 1 jar
Calories 170 kcal

Equipment

  • Mason Jar

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Lettuce
  • 2 tbsp Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp Cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp Green Peppers
  • 2 tbsp Cucumbers
  • 2 tbsp mushrooms
  • 1 tbsp Onions

Instructions
 

  • Wash and cut your vegetables, and also spin your lettuce.
  • Put each ingredients in the jar from bottom to top (very important)
  • Dressing (always at bottom) and add other vegetables after.
  • Lettuce (always the last ingredient to add)
  • When ready to eat just shake the jar, pour on a place, and eat!

Notes

You can add any ingredients you would like as long as you remember that the salad dressing has to be at the bottom and the lettuce at the top of the jar.

Nutrition

Calories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 8mgSodium: 261mgPotassium: 446mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5628IUVitamin C: 28mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Keyword chef salad, salad, salad dressing, salad in a jar, vegetables
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
How to Make a Salad in a Jar

Have you tried preparing a chef salad in a jar? Did you like it? Comment below!

Lovin’ LEGOLAND!

TurnipseedTravel
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14
Lovin’ LEGOLAND!

I’ve had the opportunity to travel around the world and see some extraordinary sites, but nothing gets as big a reaction as LEGOLAND! I’ve had everyone from age 5 to 65 tell me how lucky I was to see LEGOLAND and I’m happy to take you inside that adventure!

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Copyright TurnipseedTravel.com
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Copyright TurnipseedTravel.com

So Close to Home!

Families in Ottawa frequently have the opportunity to travel to Toronto and the surrounding area and the number of attractions make it an ideal location for a long weekend break. Under the right circumstances, LEGOLAND can be an attraction that all family members of all different ages can enjoy. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto Vaughan Mills is surrounded by every amenity you could need and is just a 4 hour drive from Ottawa.

Lego Around the World

There are LEGOLAND parks and centres around the world, the most famous of which is in Denmark. While some of these parks cover acres of ground, the Toronto LEGOLAND is a much smaller affair and is an indoor facility. While this might be a disappointment to those expecting a full service theme park with outside attractions, I think the more modest size in Toronto is more realistic for families who can enjoy their fun without bugs or sunburns.

Rides, Earthquakes, Movies, and More!

LEGOLAND is much like you’d expect it to be – fun, colorful, cheerful, and upbeat. The staff brought us through to show us a fun faux-demonstration of how Legos are made and we had the chance to go on a LEGOLAND ride – the mechanical cart took us through the dark tunnels so we could use our laser guns to shoot the Lego Skeletons and save the princess. Considering what a wimp I am in all aspects of life, this is one ride I could definitely handle! We also got to enjoy a large play area, including a section where we got to build our own structures and test them out on the earthquake simulator! Tons of fun, but also a neat attraction for any children who are interested in science, nature, and design. There was a second ride – also mild enough for a chicken like me to handle – and a 4D movie experience that was charming and cute (and the kids went crazy for it!)

Masterful Design

My favourite part of the entire experience was seeing the city of Toronto reproduced in Legos. It was an incredible display, complete with water, lights, and moving parts. In a reproduction of a Maple Leaf’s hockey game, you could see Lego celebrities sitting in the stands! While the incredible detail contained in a display like this might be lost on the smaller children, there’s no doubt that every adult will love it.

Master Class

The visit was capped off with a Lego Master Builders’ class. This was something I was really looking forward to and it did not disappoint. Our patient instructor walked us through the building of a sea plane and even the small children in the room were able to follow along with the more advanced configurations.

Budget Accordingly

I was fortunate to see Toronto’s Vaughan Mills LEGOLAND Discovery Centre as part of a press trip with Central Counties Tourism. I had a wonderful time, it was tons of fun, and it was such a treat to indulge some childhood whims and feel like a kid again.

Families should take note of the steep admission cost. Children between 2-13 years old cost $18, while 13 plus and adults cost $22. A family of 4 could easily spend close to $100 with taxes for a visit to LEGOLAND. This would be reasonable if your children (and you!) loved Lego, but if some of your kids aren’t that interested, you might be better off splitting for the day to peruse more suitable activities. Parents should also be aware that there are endless opportunities to spend more money once inside; from the photos taken while you are on the rides, the in-house café, the kits being used in the Masters Builder’s class, and the very tempting gift shop.

If you have no children but love the idea of playing with Legos all day, you should make note that for the safety of the children, adults are not allowed to visit on their own. Lego Land has started a monthly “adult night” where the kids stay home and Lego obsessed grownups can come and play!

I’d you’d like to learn more about visiting LEGOLAND, I highly encourage you to visit http://www.stayingnative.com/blog/lego-fun-kids-all-ages/. Staying Native is an amazing travel blog run by Toronto residents Chris and Bev and I had the pleasure of sharing my visit to LEGOLAND with them and their two children.

A Northern Road Trip to Sudbury, Ontario

Tracy (Redefined)
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7
A Northern Road Trip to Sudbury, Ontario

I grew up in Sudbury, Ontario. I remember countless summer days blueberry picking, swimming in Ramsay Lake and day trips to Killarney and Windy Lake. When we moved I didn’t know that a lot of people called Sudbury the “moon”. I didn’t understand why. The Sudbury I knew was lush and green and full of life – what was so moon like about it?

Road Trip to Sudbury

When I asked my parents why people called Sudbury the moon they told me it was because Sudbury is a mining town and before the “Superstack” was built in the early 1970’s sulphuric acid caused a lot of environmental problems and killed a lot of vegetation. I have since even heard rumours that NASA practiced moon landings in Sudbury. In truth, they were therein the 1970’s to conduct geological studies.

Road Trip to Sudbury

Since moving from Sudbury, I have gone back at least twice a year to visit with family and friends. Every time I am there, I am impressed by the city’s growth and increasing beauty. Where else can you find a major city built around a thriving and beautiful lake?

I encourage people to head to Northern Ontario this summer and explore its natural beauty as well as unique tourist attractions. Sudbury is more than just a mining town (although The Big Nickel and Dynamic Earth are very cool to see as a kid – you can travel underground! You’ll be amazed at how cool it is down there.)

If indoor attractions appeal to you be sure to check out Science North. It not only has fun and hands on science exhibits, but has an IMAX theatre, an impressive butterfly exhibit and offers great views of picturesque Ramsay Lake.

If you are looking for a great place to camp Samuel de Champlain and Driftwood Provincial Parks are beyond beautiful, or if you are looking for a great beach to settle into for the day check out Moonlight Beach or Bell Park in Sudbury.  An evening stroll along Ramsay Lake’s boardwalk is sure to be the highlight of your day. The boardwalk runs 2 km in length and connects Bell Park with Science North with plenty of benches to take in the beautiful views along the way.

Road Trip to Sudbury

And while you are there be sure to stop at Deluxe Hamburgers. This restaurant may not seem like much from the outside (there are three of them in the Sudbury area), but they have the best chicken burger and French fries (make sure to get their gravy – it is unlike anything else I have ever tasted). It has been around since the 1960s and to be honest I don’t think they have renovated them since then (and I hope they never do!)  What’s best is that at one location there is a McDonald’s across the street, yet The Deluxe continues to thrive on good food and great service. My dad goes there for the milk shakes, my grandfather for their onion rings – I go for all of it! So good, I can taste it as I type.

Statue

In any case, I am writing this so no one dismisses Sudbury when thinking of a great summer vacation destination. It’s only six hours by car – and I recently drove it by myself with my four year old, which was easy-peasy. It’s a friendly town filled with lots of great outdoor things to do and with great people too (and I’m not just saying that because a lot of my friends and family still live there). 

You Know You’re Canadian When….

Lyne Proulx
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13
You Know You’re Canadian When….

I am so proud to be Canadian, and living in the National Capital makes it even more special! I hope you will enjoy these 27 signs that you are Canadian, some collected from the internet and others my own, on you know your Canadian when….. I hope you don’t take any serious offence as it’s meant to distinguish who we are: CANADIANS!

You Know You're Canadian When....

YOU KNOW YOUR CANADIAN WHEN:

  1. You have the tendency to say “eh” after every sentence.
  2. You Know the Difference of ” Colour + Color ” Or ” Favourite + Favorite ” or ” Centre + Center”
  3. You know that a “Premier” isn’t a baby born a few months early.
  4. You know all the words to “If I had a million dollars” by The Barenaked Ladies.
  5. You drive on a highway, not a freeway.
  6. You drink pop, not soda.
  7. You brag  that: Shania Twain, Jim Carrey, Celine Dion, Michael J. Fox, William Shatner, Tom Green, Matthew Perry, Mike Myers, Neve Campbell, Avril Lavigne, Pamela Anderson Lee & many more, are Canadians.
  8. You design your kids Halloween costume to fit over their snowsuits.
  9. You are excited whenever an American television show mentions Canada.
  10. You can complete the phrase: “The good old ____ game is the best ____ you can ____.”
  11. You stand in “line-ups” at the movie, not lines.
  12. You automatically read ‘Z’ as ‘Zed’.
  13. You are in grade 12, not the 12th grade
  14. You know what a poutine and Beaver Tails are.
  15. You can drink legally while still a ‘teen’.
  16. You can sign Bob and Doug McKenzie’s version of the Twelves Day of Christmas (see video above)
  17. You’re familiar with shows like Kids In The Hall, This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Made In Canada, Red Green, North of 60, Anne of Green Gables, Royal Canadian Air Farce, Due South, Road to Avonlea, Raccoons, Danger Bay, Spirit Bay, Kids of Degrassi Street, Street Legal and maybe Traders, or if you’re older, The Beachcombers, Wayne and Schuster, Don Messer’s Jubilee, Front Page Challenge, and King of Kensington, even if you haven’t watched them personally.
  18. You leave your car worth thousands of dollars in the driveway and put your useless junk in the garage.
  19. You talk about the weather with strangers and friends alike.
  20. You participated in “Participaction”.
  21. You constantly apologize for things, even if they aren’t your fault.
  22. You are proud of the Cirque du Soleil.
  23. You know what a Tim Hortons ” double – double ” is.
  24. You buy hot dogs in packages of twelve and buns in packages of eight.
  25. Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled in with snow.
  26. You get milk in plastic bags.
  27. You know we invented ski-doos, jet-skis, velcro, zippers, insulin, penicillin, zambonis, the telephone, short-wave radios, and Superman.

Shayne Koyczan says it so well what it is like to be Canadian

I was born and raised in Montreal, but have been living in Ottawa since 1984. I am very lucky to have met my loving and supportive husband in this city, from which we share two beautiful children. Every year we celebrate Canada Day as a family by attending local community events or simply by having our own unique and fun day at home! How do you celebrate Canada Day?

You Know You're Canadian When....

Please feel free to add in the comments below how You Know You’re Canadian When….

Happy Canada Day!

The Important Role of Decor in Nurseries & Kids Rooms – Tips

OMCGuest
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4
The Important Role of Decor in Nurseries & Kids Rooms – Tips

 

Childrens Decor

I have many times walked into a child’s room and wanted to just sit there and soak up the wonderful energy.  The feeling of happiness, of imagination, of being carefree.  The amount of personality in kids rooms is beyond anything I have ever experienced in any other space.

Kids rooms of all ages, from infants to teenagers, are my most favorite spaces to decorate.  A big reason for this is because they aren’t afraid.  They aren’t afraid of color, they aren’t afraid of what people might think, they aren’t afraid to let their own individual quirks and imagination be translated into their personal space, and they definitely aren’t afraid to tell it like it is! I feel we have a lot to learn from kids of all ages and it doesn’t end when it comes to decor and design.

When I am decorating nurseries there are a lot of important developmental psychological elements that I use in the decor.  For example- did you know that an infants sense of sight develops gradually over 6 months?  They cannot see as we do and it is crucial to stimulate this sense in the first months of life.  For this reason I like to use visually stimulating concepts when decorating a nursery.  Using certain colours, sounds, and textures have been proven through psychological studies to aid in the growth and stimulation for infants both mentally and physically.

I remember as a child constantly moving around the furniture in my room, pinning things to ceilings and walls (much to my parents annoyance), and how exciting it was to get new sheets or curtains.  I get much the same feeling decorating children’s rooms.
It’s important that children have a space of their own that will allow them to let their imagination soar, and their minds grow. Children need a spot of their own that speaks to them.  A go-to place that provides security.  Somewhere that fully allows them to imagine, and create – to be a safari hunter on a magnificent adventure, or a princess waiting for a prince. Their room will later grow into the place where they write all their secrets and dreams in, come up with their best ideas, share stories with friends, and retreat to when they feel like no one understands them.

Whether it’s a nursery, a tween room, or a young adult, providing the space that contributes to their function, development and imagination is important.  When I have finished decorating a child’s  room and they say thank you and give me a big hug, I always have to say thank you in return – thank you for inviting me into their world and taking me back to a time of simple innocence and imagination that reaches far beyond the moon!

Staining Your Deck: Stain Choices and Tips

Lyne Proulx
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Staining Your Deck: Stain Choices and Tips

We had our deck built 3 years ago and started to notice this year that the wood is changing to a greyish colour. Rain, sun, and winter snow can definitely take a toll on a wood deck. We are looking into deck staining, since treating the wood can help it last longer, and protect and preserve it. You find below tips and stain choices for staining your deck!

deck

There are many different deck stain choices available to choose from!

Oil based Deck Stains

Oil based stains like this deck stain are made of synthetic and natural oils. It penetrates the wood very well, is easy to apply, and has a more natural look. From what I hear, the better a deck stain can penetrate, the better it performs. It  does have a stronger odor and takes longer to dry.

Water-Based Deck Stains

Wood stains must meet new environmental rules that lower volatile organic compounds (VOC). Manufacturers are now increasing their production of water soluble deck stains to comply with theses rules. They are environmentally friendlier, have less of a chance to create mold and mildew growth, and are easy to clean up. A few companies like these one offer water-based deck stains.

deck 2Solid Decking Stains (Opaque

Solid deck stains pretty much look like paint covering the wood. Once you apply it you will never be able to apply a transparent stain.  It does offer an excellent UV protection. It just covers the wood, so it does not penetrate it, and it will most likely peel.

Semi-Transparent Stains

Semi-transparent Stains provide a transparent protective layer and allow the grain pattern to show. It penetrates very well and can be removed with a deck stain stripper. An oil base stain performs better.

Semi-Solid Stains

Semi-Solid Deck Stain is designed to almost hide all of the natural wood grain. It last longer than semi-transparent because of the increase in UV blockage. It penetrates well and provide a durable finish.

Transparent Wood stains

Transparent deck coatings gives a natural look. It’s easy to apply, but only lasts about a year, so you must reapply annually. It does not have a very good UV protection.

Clear Wood Deck Finishes

Clear Deck Finishes are more used for sealers as the offer hardly any UV protection and your deck will turn grey very fast.

Tips On Staining Your Deck

I found these companies that offer helpful tips and advice on staining a deck:

  1. Benjamin Moore: Videos on how to stain a deck, deck stain maintenance, preparing a deck for staining, and maintaining a deck
  2. Shur-Line: Deck Staining Tips
  3. Cabot: Staining your Deck
  4. Vicky How to do Anything: How to Seal and Stain Pressure Treated Wood Decking
  5. Lowe’s: Clean and Stain a Deck
  6. HGTV:  How to Stain a Wooden Deck

We have not made up our minds yet as to which stain to purchase. I am tempted to get the semi-transparent. If you stained your deck, I would love to hear what type you used and why, so please comment below!

Why I Vacuum My Cat

Tracy (Redefined)
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Why I Vacuum My Cat

I vacuum my cat. He loves it. It makes him happy. He actually comes out from wherever it is he is hiding and jumps on the half wall that separates the family room from the kitchen and meows at me as if to ask when it will be his turn.

Cat being vacuumed

Getting Vacuumed Is Like A Massage for Cats

Getting vacuumed must be like a massage for my cat. I used to think it was a quick way to minimize shedding, but alas it doesn’t seem to do much more than take off whatever fur is right on the surface and make my perpetually grumpy cat love me for the duration of the vacuuming.

A Cat’s Life

I feel for my cat. When we brought him home nine years ago he had our complete attention from the moment we came home from work until the moment we left in the morning.  We would play ball with him, brush him every day and make sure he had the best of the best in cat supplies. And ohhh the cuddle time…

Nine years later the cat is forced to share his house with a gregarious four-year old girl and an exhaustingly energetic one year old dog. My cat is very good with my daughter, but why he decided to slap one of her friends on the head as she walked by him two years ago, is still one of life’s greatest mysteries (perhaps he thought she was here to stay?).

Cats and Dogs

I think the cat enjoys tormenting the dog though. When we first brought the dog home my husband feared for the puppy’s life. She survived and is relentlessly determined to make a playmate out of the cat. And while chasing the dog through the upstairs hall to the point that she forgets we have stairs and falls down a couple of steps may not be considered playing to some, I think my cat finds happiness in it because he does it time and time again, as does my dog.

Why I Vacuum My Cat

My husband hates cats. I convinced him to get this cat because he travelled a lot and I needed a companion to keep me company while he was away (oh, to have those lonely hours of nothingness back!). A friend of mine was giving kittens away, so we drove out to the country to visit. My husband’s firm expression melted as soon as the little gray and white kitten with a white-tipped tail pounced up to him and meowed loudly.

Why I Love My Cat

That little kitten would soon become a very heavy and handsome alpha male who only likes to be pat after he crawls up and lays on your chest in the middle of the night, and demands to be fed five minutes before the alarm goes off and lets you know this by making a scratching post out of the box spring.

Suffice to say I love my cat. He reminds me that there was a time when things weren’t so hectic and that before I know it, it could just be him and I again, sitting in the chair, eating ice cream and watching DVDs of “Sex in the City” while my husband is travelling with work.

Why I Vacuum My Cat

My cat also reminds me that while I only have five minutes to vacuum before everyone gets home and I have to let the dog inside because it is going to rain, that I need to take the time to give my cat his vacuum massage. Because it makes him happy and he makes me happy, and you should always make time to do what makes you happy.

12 Fun Things to Do in Syracuse, New York This Summer

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12 Fun Things to Do in Syracuse, New York This Summer

From shopping and sailing to fireworks and festivals, summer is a fantastic season to visit Syracuse, New York, located just an hour and a half south of the US border. Of course all families are unique and define a great family getaway differently, so here are a variety of ways that may inspire you to begin your countdown to fun in the Syracuse sun this summer. You will find below 12 fun things to do in Syracuse, New York!

Canyon Climb ropes climbing at Destiny USA

Fun things to do in Syracuse, New York

1. Shop ‘till You Drop

Cool off inside Destiny USA, New York’s largest retail centre (and the sixth largest in the United States) with over 250 stores, including a variety of brand-new outlets! In addition to stellar shopping, Destiny USA offers unique family-friendly attractions such as OptiGolf, Pole Position Raceway, WonderWorks, the world’s largest indoor ropes course and so much more. Check out DestinyUSA for the most up-to-date directory. 

Pole Position Raceway Syracuse

2. Spend the day in Skaneateles

Need a quiet moment to soak up the summer sun? Take the 20 minute drive southwest of Syracuse to the quaint, relaxing and picturesque village of Skaneateles. Pack a picnic or grab some ice cream and enjoy the scenery of Skaneateles Lake, the eastern most Finger Lake. Kids of all ages will enjoy a Mid-Lakes Navigation sightseeing cruise on Skaneateles Lake, one of the cleanest bodies of water in the world. 

After the sightseeing cruise, kids will be raring for some action, and skateboarding at Skaneateles’ lakeside park surely fits the bill. While the adults enjoy the lovely scenery, the kids can have fun on their boards, improving their balance if they’re newbies or performing some cool tricks if they’re ‘experts.’ However, beginners should master the basics first and not attempt even the easiest tricks as it could lead to injury. Signing up for skateboard lessons for kids is always the safer choice.

3. Go Golfing

It’s a lifelong sport that can be played by young or old, novice or professional and it’s a great family activity. Choose from over 40 affordable golf courses throughout the Greater Syracuse area including several designed by both Robert Trent Jones and Jack Nicklaus. There’s nothing like some friendly competition to get the whole family laughing and having a great day out.

4. Get Historic! 

School may be closed for summer, but that doesn’t mean the kids have to stop learning. Did you know that Syracuse played an essential role in the Underground Railroad and women’s suffrage movement? Get close and personal with history at the Matilda Joslyn Gage Home in Fayetteville or the Onondaga Historical Association Museum in downtown Syracuse.

Downtown Syracuse New York

5. Hangout in Armory Square

One of the places to visit in Syracuse is the heart of downtown Syracuse! It truly comes alive during the summer.  Downtown dining, boutique shopping, and families exploring the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) keep Armory Square buzzing throughout the day, while live music and nightlife take over the square at sunset. 

6. Catch the Excitement

Find some deals on kids baseball gloves and bring a glove and some sunglasses for a baseball game at NBT Bank Stadium. Nothing says summer like cheering on the Syracuse Mets, the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals with a hotdog and cold beverage in hand. Baseball has always been the all-American, fan-favourite, fun family activity for all to enjoy, so take the kids and join in on the action.

7. Get Festive

There are so many cool things to do in Syracuse! You name it, they have it. From Brew Fest and the Arts & Crafts Festival to Balloon Fest, and the Great New York State Fair, you can count on a fun-filled festival just about every weekend throughout the Greater Syracuse area during the summer. Go to Visit Syracuse a complete summer events calendar to begin planning. Gather a few friends and make it a road trip for a weekend, attending all the festivals as you go along.

8. Feel the Beat

Imagine this: a star-lit sky on a warm summer night paired with live music. It doesn’t get much better. Be sure to experience some of Syracuse’s music festivals including Jazz Fest, the largest free jazz festival in the Northeast, or the Skaneateles Festival; just to name a few. Of course you can find live entertainment on a nightly basis at many local restaurants, bars and pubs. It makes for the perfect mellow evening to talk about everything and nothing with the good company around, so find a comfy lounge to hang out at and appreciate the lovely jazz notes.

9. Go to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is open year-round, but the animals love to come out in the summer sun as much as we do. Penguins dip and dive while Elephants reach their trunk out to say hello. The zoo is home to more than 900 animals of all shapes and sizes. Going to the zoo is nothing short of the perfect field trip for kids to learn more about the different animals of the world.

Syracuse Rosamond Gifford Zoo

10. Get fast-food; the old-fashioned way 

Get in line at Heid’s of Liverpool and prepare for the best hot dog (or coney) of your life!  This vintage fast-food joint has been around since 1917 and is a central New York landmark.  Feeling full?  Take a stroll at Onondaga Lake Park, just across the street, and tantalize your taste buds with some of the best food around.

11. Get movin’

Speaking of Onondaga Lake Park – that’s where your family can cruise along mile after mile of paved parkway aboard a very unique piece of cycling equipment ranging from rollerblades and skateboards to a quadricycle (bike built for four!), conference bike (up to eight passengers!) or a tandem bicycle.  You’ll quickly understand why the park has earned the reputation as the “Central Park” of Central New York. 

12. Dive in

Don’t forget to pack bathing suits because with so many waterways throughout the Greater Syracuse area – it’s easy to make a splash with the family.  Popular waterholes include Oneida Shores in Brewerton, Jamesville Beach Park, Green Lakes State Park, and Skaneateles Lake.

If you are looking for things to do this weekend in Syracuse, be sure to go to VisitSyracuse.org for event listing, attractions, special savings, and hotel packages just for Canadians when planning your family adventure in Syracuse, New York this summer!

Travel Tips for Flying with Kids

OMCGuest
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Travel Tips for Flying with Kids

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It’s 2 a.m. and you are staring at the ceiling, running through all the possible nightmare scenarios that may occur on a flight with your child.  Endless lineups, emotional meltdowns, exploding diapers and more.  I, too, had many anxiety ridden nights, fretting about travel with my own children. Thankfully, however, several years and over 60 flight later, we now hop on and off planes with relative ease. While it hasn’t always gone perfectly, we have learned by trial and error, receiving some great advice along the way.  I’d love to share with you here the tips and suggestions we found most useful, so you can ideally experience a much shorter learning curve.

1. familiarize yourself with the rules

Most airlines state their policy regarding travel with children on their website, and offer some kind of family travel advice and recommendations.  Three very common sources of confusion are around what you are allowed to bring in terms of baggage (strollers etc.), liquid restrictions (different rules apply when traveling with a child under 2), and the rules regarding child restraint systems (CRS).  We recommended visiting both the website of the airline you are flying with, and that of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority  or the   U.S. Transportation Security Administration (depending on where you are traveling).

2. pack your carry-on in anticipations of a disaster

Be fully prepared for lengthy delays, the in-flight diaper incident, the surprise Norovirus attack, or a bleeding nose (all things that have happened to the author or her readers).  Extra clothes (for you and your child), more diapers than you think you need, a ton of wipes, extra bottles, and Ziploc bags in which to store nasty things, go a long way in buying you a sense of security and confidence.  If you use them, you feel like a champ and remain in control.  If you don’t, you can lend them out to the distressed parent freaking out in the row beside you (and still feel like super-parent).

3. minimize the time you spend on the plane

It sounds logical enough, but the problem with early boarding for families with small children, is that it forces you to spend an extra half hour trapped on a plane. If you are traveling with a partner, we suggest having them take advantage of early boarding with all of the gear, but no child. This parent can gate check the stroller, take claim to the most convenient overhead bin, install a car seat (if applicable) and organize everything you will need handy for the first hour of flight with your little one. This allows you and your child to have an few extra minutes of relative freedom, strolling on during final boarding.

Also important to remember, and relevant even if you are traveling on your own with your child, is that the plane is not going anywhere until you hear (or see) that the flight attendants have secured the door (often announced over the P.A.).  Until this has happened, there is no need have your child tightly held in your lap or secured in their seat.

4. arm yourself with the right kind of entertainment

Take note of what kind of toys and activities occupy your child for the longest period of time, and pack your carry-on or diaper bag accordingly. Pull things out on the plane one at a time, as necessary, keeping the stash out of sight. Be careful to pace yourself throughout the flight. There is no need to present anything to your child if they are happy pressing the buttons on the entertainment system (which you have ideally thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic wipes). Don’t forget to keep a few surprises for the trip home.

41YdD5BdQmL._SL500_AA300_If your child enjoys watching shows, do not assume that you are going to have a working inflight entertainment system.  Planes get changed, and systems break down. If possible, bring your own (personl DVD player, iPhone etc.). The headphones offered on planes (usually for purchase) do not fit little heads very well and the sound quality is often terrible. Optionally, you can purchase headphones made specifically for kids (like the tiger ones shown here from Califone). These, and similar models can be found on Amazon.ca, or in stores such as Walmart and Best Buy.  Regardless of where you buy them, you want to make sure that they will fit your child’s head well and that they have some kind of volume control to protect little ears.

5. bring your own snacks

If you are traveling domestically in the U.S. or Canada, the state of on-board snacks and meals is pretty miserable. Even when the snack menu offers a kid’s snack pack, many times they are sold out so.  Packing your own snacks will not only save you money, but it will also buy you some well deserved peace of mind.

Children under two years are exempt from the 100ml per container liquid limit, so you can pack for them a reasonable amount of milk, formula or juice in your carry-on.  For children over two, we recommend packing an empty sippy cup and either filling it once you have passed through security (with beverages purchased from an airport store), or asking the flight attendant to fill it on board. This saves you having a spill on the plane with those plastic cups and trays that are so easily bumped.  Also keep in mind that on most flights there is only enough milk for coffee and tea service (not enough to fill a bottle or sippy cup) so this should be purchased before getting on the plane.

6. be kind to the flight crew

These people are the gatekeepers to a better flight experience. Treat them kindly and they may surprise you with their helpfulness. Warming bottles, keeping baby food refrigerated, offering kids activities, and getting you a beverage when you child has finally fallen asleep in your lap, are all conveniences that may be offered to you….but then again, maybe not. A smile and a thank you can go a long way in making this a reality.

Bio

Guest post by Tara Cannon of Pint Size Pilot – survival skills for travel with babies and toddlers (and big kids too !)

Tara Cannon is a mother of two and avid family traveler.  Her website includes helpful tips and advice, destination recommendations, product reviews, and even a babysitter and baby gear rental directory, allowing parents to not only survive, but actually enjoy travel with babies, toddlers, and kids of all ages!

 

 

You Eat Healthy, So Why Take a Multivitamin?

Raising Healthy Kids
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You Eat Healthy, So Why Take a Multivitamin?

It is true that the best source for vitamins and minerals is eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, grains, protein and omega 3 rich fish. The fact is that today many families are on the go and busy, and quite often the side of vegetables is is missing and the only fruit your kids are squeezing in is a glass of orange juice. Should you take a multivitamin?

You Eat Healthy, So Why Take a Multi-vitamin?
Fresh fruits and vegetables

Whether or not to take a multivitamin depends on your diet. If you are lactose intolerant, your kids are picky eaters, there are food allergies in your family or you are eating on the run more nights than you are sitting at the kitchen table, then there may be health benefits to taking vitamins.  If you know you regularly eat a well balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, dairy, eggs, grains and meat and alternatives then you may not need an additional source of vitamins.

You eat healthy, so why take a multivitamin?  

Key Vitamins

This list shows the key nutrients that should be a part of your families diet to maintain optimal health and looking for a multivitamin that includes these on its ingredient list may be a good option if your family is deficient in any area.

Vitamin A 

Beneficial for eyes, skin and immune system. Found in mango, sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and grapefruit.

Vitamin B

Beneficial for energy and creating red blood cells.
Found in peas, spinach, sweet potatoes, avocado, bananas and mango.

Vitamin C

Beneficial for growth and tissue repair and stronger immune system.
Found in oranges, red peppers, broccoli, grapefruit and strawberries.

Vitamin D

Beneficial for strong bones, teeth as well as nerves, muscle and immune system. Found in eggs, dairy, chicken, beef and fortified juice and cereals.

Vitamin E 

Beneficial because it is an antioxidant and important to boost your immune system and fight viruses. Found in spinach, blackberries, kiwi and raspberries.

Omega 3s

Beneficial to protect against heart disease, reduces symptoms of hypertension, depression, attention deficit disorder (ADHD), dementia, joint pain and boosts immune system. Found in fatty fish such as mackerel, sardines, salmon and in some fortified eggs and juice.

Fiber

Beneficial to preventing constipation and it helps lower blood cholesterol, controls blood sugar levels and may also help prevent and treat a variety of diseases and conditions, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. Found in peas, apples, pears, grains, barely, and beans.

You Eat Healthy, So Why Take a Multivitamin?
You Eat Healthy, So Why Take a Multivitamin?

If you have healthy fruit and vegetable eaters but they don’t like fish, then perhaps just an Omega 3 supplement is what is right for your family.  Talk to your family doctor to determine if you or your kids need to take a multivitamin. They will review your typical weekly meal plan to determine what nutrients may be lacking and then look to increase those foods in your diet, or consider a supplement.

Remember, it’s the nutrients we need and not artificial colouring, flavours or sweeteners. Read the label carefully for the medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients and choose one that is specially formulated to meet your needs.

A good multivitamin acts like a back up plan and is a great way to enhance a balanced, healthy diet – not replace it.  Including a daily multivitamin and supplements alongside fruits and vegetables will help to ensure your family gets all of the vitamins they need to be healthy and active!

Father’s Day Crafts: Organizing

OMCGuest
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Father’s Day Crafts: Organizing

Do you have a dad who needs help with organizing? Does mom try to help and encourage Dad to organize papers and other clutter?  If you have 30 minutes and everyday supplies, you can create these helpful and fun crafts for Father’s Day.  The main supplies-jars and a cereal box can be upcycled into crafts instead of ending up in the recycling bin.

Craft #1 – Set of Organizing jars

Dad can use these jars to organize paper clips, change, screws, nut & bolts, etc.

Supplies needed:

  • Small or large clear jars, (I used babyfood jars)
  • Stick on letters
  • Acrylic paint – whichever colours you choose to use

Three easy steps

1. Clean the jars & peel off the labels

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2.Paint the top of the jars. I painted the 3 jars with green, red and white for the Italian flag to celebrate my husband’s ethnicity.

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3. Stick the letters to the jar that spell DAD!

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Craft #2 – Organizing mail folder

Dad can use this box to organize mail, magazines, receipts, coupons, flyers, your kid’s art and more! If you keep it at the door all the mail and paper Dad brings into the house everyday will have a place to be dropped off.

Supplies needed:

  • Empty cereal or other similar size cardboard box
  • Safety scissors
  • Glue

Three easy steps

1. Remove the cereal bag from the cereal box & cut a straight diagonal piece of the cardboard off on both sides.

2. Choose the paper you would like to cover the box with. It can be scrapbooking paper, Dad’s favorite magazine cover or pages, newspaper or you can create a collage of sports tickets, etc.

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3. Evenly cover the box with either a glue stick or white glue. Fold, cut and position the paper around the box like you are wrapping a gift.

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Happy Father’s Day!

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