Loulou's views

Over the last several years, I've been very conscious about making wiser environmental decisions in my home, and teaching my children the importance of helping the environment any way we can. I love how much they know about the importance of recycling, and why we use energy efficient light bulbs. From the classroom to home, they are making smart decisions and learning along the way. We shop organic as much as we can, and bring reusable bags to the grocery store. It's the little things we do on a daily basis that will have a positive impact on the next generation and help reduce our carbon footprint while keeping our planet a happy one. One area where I haven't completely made the switch to "green" is with my household cleaning supplies. Many of the products I use contain chemicals that are harsh—but effective. I'm actively looking at how to make the switch to products that are better for our environment and for ourselves. However, I don't want to sacri...

Now that we've settled back into the fall routine, it's important to take note of what we're eating as we move away from the carefree days of summer. I know I'm definitely more pressed for time now that I'm working a full-time schedule again, and with my boys in school, I want to make sure each meal is as healthy as it can be—so we're getting the proper nutrition we need, and the energy to keep us going all day. I go grocery shopping several times a week, but I've never considered using the support of an in-store Registered Dietitian at Loblaw. This great (and did I mention free?) service provides shoppers a range of services, like: Grocery shopping tours to make healthier choices (You'd be surprised what you'll learn!) Health and wellness workshops and lunch and learns  Developing a customized meal plan based on your dietary needs  Interactive cooking classes  Tips for encouraging children to try new foods  Nutrition check-ups to assess dieta...

There's a new hotel in Ottawa that's getting some well-deserved buzz. Andaz Hotel recently opened its doors right in the heart of the ByWard Market, but first, there was a grand opening party that was the talk of the town. As a lover of fine hotels, I couldn't be more thrilled with this new opening. The grand opening party—complete with red carpet, of course, and champagne upon arrival—was a blast, as hundreds of invited guests mingled from floor to floor, checking out the sights of the new hotel and enjoying delicious food and customized drinks. This new luxury boutique hotel is the first Andaz hotel by Hyatt in Canada, with 200 rooms and 16 floors. It's clean, modern, and perfect for Ottawa. It'll be a hot spot for locals and tourists alike, especially the top-floor outdoor lounge and restaurant, Copper Spirits and Sights . And what a sight it is from the 16th floor, with views of downtown, Parliament hill, and Gatineau. (I suggest going there to eat and...

I'm all about using the best beauty products for my skin and hair and I love experimenting with new products that deliver great results. With summer winding down, it's a good time to change up our beauty routine to keep our skin extra moisturized and hair as shiny and sun-kissed as a summer day as we head into fall and, sadly, colder days. AVEENO is a name I trust when it comes to keeping my beauty regimen simple and effective. Here are the latest products I tried that I love: AVEENO Daily Moisturizing Body Body Wash and AVEENO Daily Moisturizing Lotion Sheer Hydration are two incredible products I've started using. I love how they make my skin feel super soft after my shower, and smelling delicious. (They're also formulated with active naturals colloidal oatmeal). AVEENO Positively Nourishing Shine Shampoo and AVEENO Positively Nourishing Shine Conditioner with active naturals wheat complex, are what you'll want to start using as part of your hair ro...

September is here, and although it's sad saying goodbye to summer, I'm definitely looking forward to getting back into the routine of fall—and I think the kids are ready, too. With school just days away, it's time to start thinking about quick and healthy breakfast and snack ideas that'll get everyone out the door quickly—and snacks that'll keep the children satisfied throughout the day. Kellogg's is always a great idea in the morning—and Rice Krispies is a cereal I loved as a child, and still do—so do my boys. Kellogg Canada has just come out with some tasty and healthy Nutri-Grain Fruit and Nut Medley Bars that are perfect snacks to eat after school on the way to the dozens of after-school activities. (I save these bars for the kids for after school because they contain nuts. I also make sure to have some in my purse for my hectic days, too, when I'm always on the go.) These bars are packed with real fruits and nuts, and whole grain gluten-free oats, ...