Staying positive during pregnancy

Baby #2 is on her way! Pregnancy can be an amazing but also a challenging time. No one reminded me that doing all this with a child is WORK!! Also with so many physical and emotional changes happening, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or negative at times. 

 Here are some tips to help you stay positive during your pregnancy. *I'm using them too: 

Let's go thrifting for baby clothes!

Are you on the hunt for some great deals on baby clothes? 

Thrifting can be a great way to save money while also finding some unique and stylish pieces.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when thrifting for baby clothes. 

What To Ask on Your Daycare Tour?

Ava started daycare when she was 17 months. And I was very reluctant on sending her. Why? I worked from home and felt like I had to keep her home. BUT the truth was she needed little friends. Something that I couldn't give her (being an only child). So we started daycare part-time so she could have the best of both worlds. A bit of time with friends her age and home with mommy.

When it comes to picking a daycare every family has different needs, so you should know what is important to you way before you step foot into a facility. These might be small BUT very important questions to ask your daycare provider. 

Losing friends after having kids: My Thoughts

Here is the truth… Losing friends after having kids can be tough, but it's a common experience.

Sometimes we grow apart. 

Sometimes we’re headed in a different direction. 

Clear Aligners vs. Braces - My Thoughts

I'm 20 months into my aligner journey. Such a tricky decision when you're in you 30's. At first, I tried to figure out which option was best for me: braces or clear aligners. Both have their pros and cons, and ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference. 

Come with me while I take you through my thought process.

Pregnancy Skincare Must Haves

Congratulations on your pregnancy mama! It is a wonderful time of your life when you experience a lot of changes, both physical and emotional. With Ava my skin was really good until after birth. Here are a few things you may experience.

When it comes to your skin, you may notices such as breakouts, stretch marks, and dryness. If you're a part of the lucky bunch who haven't experienced this... how do you like being God's favourite LOL. I'm joking...

Surviving the fourth Trimester

When I was told "Beware of the fourth trimester" I had NO idea what people were talking about. But it's an important part for your mental health and wellbeing. The fourth trimester the period after giving birth is a challenging time for parents. 

Not only do you have to help your baby adjust to life outside the womb, but you may also find yourself overwhelmed by fatigue, pain, and uncertainty. 

EARTH DAY: Why Thrifting Your Child's Clothes Can Put More Money in Your Pocket This Season

If you have a little one at home, you know how they keep growing every week! I feel like nothing fits Ava anymore.  Shopping at any thrift shop will save you money and allow you to get new outfits for your child at a LOW cost. 

Here is why thrifting for your child's clothes can be your best option. 

Hot Thermos Lunch ideas for Kids

Your kids should be excited about their lunch. I know it's hard because I forever feel like I'm running out of ideas. I wish I could drop a hot lunch everyday but it's just not possible; hence, you are packing it up in a thermos. 

Here are the food recipes you should try this school year!

Do you want to be a Canadian Beauty Blogger?

I started Beauty Blogging in 2008/2009. And boy times were different back then. It was funner and more carefree. Also things were cheaper and the opportunities were in abundance. That doesn't mean that it should deter you from starting now BUT there are a few things to consider. Starting a channel or blog is expensive. It's easy to feel left out! Especially when you want to get noticed.

Here are some tips to get started from an OG.

Work from Home Thoughts

I'm the Queen of reminders. Especially as a Work from home moms. I want us to know our worth and be able to speak up for ourselves. Pre-baby I made some decisions that were not ideal.Just thinking about it makes me so sick. 

I know I sound over dramatic but having my daughter made me smarten up and now make me work for me. 

Five things I will never do as a first time mom

Being a first time mom was something. Something good. Something INTERESTING. For one you get to really know who your village is/what its composed of. You get to see your limits- your partner’s limits… sometimes you impress yourself. Other times man it’s a fail. Either way it’s a learning process. 

So far we have survived 4 years and I'm excited to see my growth in the upcoming years of motherhood. 

Are blogs dead?

Honest question? Are blogs dead? I know if you’re here reading this the answer is no BUT how often do you actually visit a blog? I won’t lie – I don’t visit them as much as I should be that will change this year! 

Let’s get back to blogging! 

After School Routine Every Kid Can Follow

Routines are so key for Ava’s and I. It’s something I implemented... so that if I’m not available to do it, she knows exactly what steps to do on her own. Or for her to tell someone else.

Here is what we do Monday to Friday!

Content creator TIPS

One of the best way to become personable as a content creator/blogger is to show yourself on camera. I stopped as I gained some weight after the baby and became self-conscious. 

Now I have a toddler and I'm still chubby BUT who cares. 

SHOW YOURSELF!

Kindergarten Checklist

I can’t Believe I’m writing this. Ava is in Kindergarten. Yeah. I know. Time FLIES! I can’t believe some of you have been around since 2009 when I was still in college. So much Life and time has passed. I’m so grateful for all of you. 

Let me stop being sentimental for a bit!

Three Quick Ways To Make Mom Friends

Friendships can be tricky, especially when you are an introverted mom. Or just quiet in general. Though it's NOT that hard for everyone to new people... hello extroverts! Before becoming a mother- I kept my circle small, but after having Ava it got smaller. It's important that I make friends who have children that Ava can play with.  

Here Are Some Ways You Can TRY to Make New Mom Friends 

Work from Home in Canada

Every year the most searched post on my blog is “Work from home mom” or "Work from home in Canada". This wasn’t my path… I always thought I’d be 9-5 or on set girlie. But as soon as I got a taste of at home life- I literally fell in LOVE. Especially during pregnancy and after having Ava. Being able to pick her up and or/ drop her off at school or daycare is dream. Also being at home with her until she was 3.9 months. So unheard of. 

Sephora Holiday 2022

Where are my last minute people? I

 mean the people who are running to the mall between now up to Saturday looking for gifts for that special family member that loves to beautify themselves! 

Sephora has some cute picks this season.

The price point is good- The quality is good -The accessibility is good. 

In yearly, tradition I was gifted some Sephora goodies to try out and get a head start on shopping for me.. LOL! 

Currently Obsessed: Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl Ink Liquid Lipstick

With the weather changing- Question do you do the same thing with your self care products? For example do you switch your pinks to deep rich reds or do you switch your shampoos/conditioners to something lighter to handle the heat. 

I found a product that I'm currently obsessed with from Maybelline!

Five Pieces to Add to your Fall Wardrobe

Fall is here! I'm literally swimming in pumpkin spice and crunchy leaves. LOL! I love that the weather changing gives us an excuse to shop for some Fall clothes too! Cooler temperatures and that hint of winter wind nipping at us has me online buying staple Fall pieces.

It's been a while since we talked Fashion.
Let me share some of my favourites!

Lunchbox snack ideas!

Are you tired of making the same lunch box meals for your kids daily? 

With Ava I always have to switch it up. Or you know she will call me out! Just like all of us, different foods, have different seasons in our life. If you can- It's always best to shop in bulk. 

That's my mommy blogger tip for you! LOL

I'm going to share some of my favourite snacks to give my daughter for lunch.

Battling the Canadian Winters with three easy steps!

This time of year, I always start feeling the weather in the form of dry skin. Not sure about you guys, but by the end of November I sometimes feel like an old AND dried up. Yes, I know I'm over dramatic but these Canadian winters are NO JOKE! Now, if you face this problem every year, too you may be wondering what we can do to hydrate our skin and keep it fully moisturized. 

Luckily, I have 3 solutions that are bound to hit the spot!

Starting Kindergarten in Ontario- Let's talk lunches!

Customization is definitely going to be the key for us going into Kindergarten! With probably 25 students in a class- One teacher and a TA… things are bound to get mixed up or lost. I don't want to think about it but its a real reality... LOL On top of that, I feel like the name Ava the new Jennifer. So I will continue to push her full name haha!   

How to get your toddler to wear a mask on the plane

The pandemic has changed a lot of things for us, hasn't it? From product shortages to Zoom conferences, it seems that everything in our lives have been impacted in some way. One recent things is that the mask ban has been lifted. But when it comes to flying in Canada- Masks are STILL needed for the whole flight.

For us grown ups, it can be hard enough to keep it on, but for the little ones? It seems to be impossible. I mean, it's hard enough to get them to keep their socks on! 

So here are 3 tips for teaching your toddler how to properly wear their mask on an airplane. 

Parissa is changing the way we wax

Happy June everyone! 

Summer is around three weeks away. Not like I’m counting or anything! If you’re in Ontario, the temperatures are hot hot hot! It’s the perfect time to remove that unwanted hair from areas that are so bothersome. I have tried so many methods over the years (some you will find on this blog) but one that can never be disputed is Waxing! Temporary pain for long - term gain right! LOL! That rhymes. Especially if done right. Taking the hair directly from the root. You can have smooth skin for 2 - 8 weeks depending on your hair growth. 

A brand that you should totally get on your radar is Parissa! 

Have you heard of them yet? 

Let's Talk: Screen time

Tricky subject! Screen Time. 

Before Ava it was a HELL NO. Now It's a must... in moderation. 

I spoke with Parenting Educator & Former Elementary School Teacher, Laura Linn Knight on tips for screen time. Pull up a seat and take notes!

Quick Picnic Checklist

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting warmer, and the smell of flowers is in the air! That's right, it's Spring/Summer again and if you are looking for Spring/Summer themed date night ideas- do a Picnic!

Picnics are classics for a reason

Meal Plans Delivery Kits in Canada! Are they worth it?

Is it just me or does anyone else have no time left at the end of the evening to cook dinner? I mean, you rush to work(Or work from home), you rush to pick up the kids from school, you rush home...when exactly are we supposed to be finding time to cook a healthy and balanced meal? 

But, here's the thing, this is the 21st century, so you don't actually have to struggle to cook dinner anymore. 

I'm sure you've heard/seen countless ads for meal plan kits while listening to podcasts, but if you're still on the fence about trying one out, here are 3 reasons why you need a meal plan kit in your life. 

Wolfhead Distillery Gift Sets

I honestly feel like Canadian products don’t get as much hype as they should. There are so many home grown products that are amazing and deserve the shine. A while back I was contacted by a Canadian alcohol brand: Wolfhead Distillery. I have never heard of them but totally wanted to give them a try. 

A) Because out of all the alcoholic drinks whisky is my absolute favourite! 

B) Something to share with my husband *hearts* 

 Have you heard of Wolfhead Distillery? 

The first craft distiller of premium spirits in Amherstburg, Ontario. 

Grooming Gifts for Him That You’ll Love too

These products were sent by Manscaped BUT my own opinion/thoughts.

How hard is it for you to shop for your significant other? Is it easy? Do you need some help? Or do they simply just have everything?  Kevin and I have been together for 15 years sometimes saying it sounds insane but it’s a long time!! One thing about me I always know what to get him! Anything having to do with grooming is always at the top of the list. 

I am so lucky to be married to somebody who takes a lot of pride in their appearance. 

So when MANSCAPED reached out to me this year, I knew these would be perfect for Kevin or the man in your life!  

Have you tried Green Beaver Toothpaste yet?

I received this product for free from Moms Meet (momsmeet.com) to use and post my honest opinions. Compensation for this post was provided and this page may contain affiliate links.

The older I get, the more health conscious I TRY to become. I wish I could literally flip a switch and change overnight BUT I know that it’s not easy. I try to do small things for me and my family.  

How to Take Professional-Looking Toddler and Baby Photos at Home

Toddlers are absolutely the cutest thing in the world! Especially mine! Ava is an absolute doll. You might be interested in getting more professional pictures of their cuteness but need some help. After all, they'll be grown before you know it, why not preserve this moment of time before it's gone? 

 But professional photographs are expensive, right? 

Doing a DIY photoshoot of your kid might seem daunting, 

but it can be really fun to do! 

Have you heard of Noom?

The past few months have been tricky for all of us. Being inside and not being as active as we wanted has definitely allowed us to put on a few pounds (If you haven’t- you’re lucky LOL). I can’t even tell you how I wish I was rich and had the ability to have a dietician or a personal trainer on deck to come through and make it all happen. BUT that’s not my reality. 

The bottom line is that weight loss is not easy. It’s stressful and a few of us need help! 

Have you heard of Noom? 

Cool Household Products to Add to Your Kitchen Wishlist

Decorating your home can be such a great way to express yourself and utilize your creativity to make a beautiful living space for you and your family. 

One of the best ways to make a house feel like a home is by personalizing the look and feel of it and creating a certain “vibe” and aesthetic. 

Hospital Bag Checklist Help: What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag

I’ve been meaning to write this blog post for a while. Can you believe it’s been almost 3 years since I had Ava!! I remember the day when I packed my bag for the hospital and left it at the front door for Kevin to pick up when it was time. 

I was so thankful to get a personalized list of what to bring but I know how overwhelming it can be to pack. 

Summer Must Haves!

So I counted and there are 3 weeks until summer starts. I’m not even going to lie- 

I am NOT ready at all. At ALL!!! So summer is totally going to get whatever body I literally give it. 

As we all know Ontario is locked down until at least July 5... so DIY is definitely on the menu for all of us. Check out these great brands that you can buy and get groomed. 

Check out BeautySense.ca

I know I’ve been talking about Spring Cleaning A LOT. Especially when it comes to your make up/skin care/body essentials. When I did my search, I was so surprised to see how many products that I had opened and have now expired. PLUS how many products I have actually used up completely. Go me! 

I was so lucky that BEAUTYSENSE.CA reached out to me and gave me the opportunity to shop on their site. Let me tell you that this is the site that you want bookmarked everywhere. 

THEY HAVE EVERYTHING!

Spring is here: Let's talk Mindset, Beauty and Fashion

Spring is here. Although it doesn’t feel like it in Ontario, Canada because we are on a stay-at-home order. BUT it doesn’t mean that you can’t dress up for yourself. I know it’s better said then done! If you see me... six out of seven days... I literally look like I rolled out of bed. 

Perks of working from home! But I am on a mission to change that!  

Glam days at least three times a week LOL... okay let's say two!

Advice on Coping and Getting through the Morning during a Stay at Home Order

Although our new reality with RONA has impacted the world as a whole, this is the best time to focus on yourself aside from working from home, being stuck inside all day, and just being plain bored and depressed. Living in Canada, I can say Ontario is a mess. I feel like I wasted a year BUT I'm also grateful to be alive, grateful to be a Content Creator and grateful that no one in my family got sick. 

So again let me not complain and just be grateful.

Three Tips to Hydrate your Skin with Clayton Shagal

As if the cold winter weather isn’t hard enough on our skin, along came COVID-19 and having spent so much time in the dry-heated indoors, many of us have been left in dire need of a moisture boost. If you’re among those finding your face drier than usual, consider these three top tips from Canadian brand Clayton Shagal to hydrate your skin. 

5 Tips for Working from Home with Toddler/Baby

I know this Pandemic/January has made a lot of us work from home or be completely home-based. I’m going into my 4th exclusive work from home year. 

So trust me when I say- BEEN THERE DONE THAT! 

It can be a roller coaster of emotions. 

3 Ways to Spruce up a Boring Bedroom

My bedroom is one of my favourite rooms in my house. 

It’s where I get to relax after a long day and wind down in a safe space with a big, comfy bed! I always like to make sure my bedroom speaks to my style so that it truly feels like mine because I just hate a boring looking bedroom with no personality. 

This is where decorating comes in! 

It’s so easy to make a bland space look amazing and you can bring your bedroom to life with these 3 ideas. 

 

3 Apps You Need to Step Up your IG game up

 There’s no shame in wanting your IG posts to look bomb, especially if you’re trying to build a following. The benefits of Instagram can be SO amazing for businesses and personal brands and if you aren't taking advantage of social media then you’re really missing out on a great opportunity! 

PLUG: Follow me on IG 

MYSPICEDLIFE

If you want to step up your IG game consider downloading these 3 apps. 

Navigating a Socially Distanced Holiday Season

The Christmas holidays is extremely stressful for people who are already struggling with isolation due to COVID. With more and more Ontario regions going back on lockdown right before Dec 25, it's going to be a difficult few weeks. Many families will not be gathering traditionally for Christmas dinner for the first time in YEARS. 

Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist Erin Wiley, MA, LPC, LPCC has sent me some tips to help people navigate a pandemic holiday season. I hope this helps anyone who is stressing and needs some advice about the stress of this season .

Last Minute stocking stuffers

  I’m trying to figure out if things are going to fast or too slow right now. Either way it all seems like a blur!! More than half the people I polled on Instagram told me that they have their Christmas gift’s already. Personally, I feel like there will be a lot of gift cards being given. Which is good but we all will miss the personable part of wrapping and filling out Christmas cards. But stocking stuffers always good add on! I always make sure that I have a few stocking stuffers personalized for each person! They don’t even have to be super expensive! 

Some you can even pick up from your local drugstore! 

Here is my beauty edition:  

Masks

Gift Guide : Sephora Collection 2020 under $20

This is the 7th annual Sephora gift guide! 

I'm so grateful to be #gifted from Sephora Canada on this one again. 

This year is so cute!!!

There were a few products sent and I chose the best products that could totally work for anyone in your life. There is something for everyone- Young..old and in between!

I’m sharing my top 5 Sephora Collection products that you need to put on your radar either for yourself or for the ones that you love!  **But don't forget about yourself LOL!