Loulou's views

Getting away from it all

2012-01-29T00:00:00.001-05:00

When I was 19, my cousin Loukia came to visit me from Greece in January. She was fascinated by the snow and winter. I looked at her like she was crazy, because clearly, she was. Maybe she'd spent too many hours in the sun in beautiful Greece, and was suffering from some sort of prolonged sun stroke?

Tomorrow I'm going on a much needed vacation with my family to my favourite place on earth, south Florida, where we'll stay at one of my favourite resorts, like we do most years.

I'm excited to be getting away from the things that make me moan and groan in the winter, like:

Stepping in snow.
Wet socks.
Salt stains on pants.
Boots that get destroyed.
Freezing rain.
Never-ending snow.
Beyond cold temperatures.
Scraping ice off of my car.
Sick people sneezing everywhere.
Dark skies and massive depression.
Blinding snowstorms.
Snow squalls.
Minus 40 degrees.
People who LOVE winter.
Slush.
Dressing my children in snowpants, jackets, mitts, scarves, hats. (Followed by: "Mommy... I have to go pee!")

For the next week, I'll be enjoying:

Hot sand in between my toes.
Pina Coladas in my hands.
Swimming with my boys.
Waking up to the sound of the ocean.
Salt water in my hair.
Strawberry Daiquiri poolside.
Drawing hearts in the sand.
The Cheesecake Factory.
Bal Harbour Shops.
Aventura Mall.
Palm trees.
Collecting sea shells.
Smelling like a coconut.
People watching in the resort lobby.
Quality time with my children and family.

Now, as long as there are no shark encounters, I know we'll have an excellent time.

Full vacation summary, including all the craziness that comes with vacations, next week... see you soon!

January funk, and being happy

2012-01-23T11:27:00.005-05:00

January is almost over. This is a very amazing thing, because it means the end of winter is near. Well, maybe not so close I can almost touch it close, but close enough to know that the worst is (almost?) over. I am in a funk, as is most often the case during these cold, dark, winter months. However, despite the fact that I've got a case of SAD and cry over every single commercial I see on TV right now, even if it's about getting an oil change, I'm happy.

I'm happy because my baby boy just turned four, and he had a wonderful birthday party with all the important people in his life there to celebrate with him. He even had a custom-made Home Alone 2: Lost in New York cake, since it's his most favourite movie, ever.

I'm happy because I'm reading The Hunger Games right now, and I can't put it down.

I'm happy because there are two more books to read in the trilogy so I am not going through "I'm almost finished this book, oh no!" anxiety.

I'm happy because after I'm finished that trilogy, I'm going to start reading The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, because I just saw the movie and it was beyond, beyond incredible. (And Rooney Mara totally deserves to win the Oscar for Best Actress.)

I'm happy because this morning my boys were in a fantastic mood (who said Monday sucks?) and because my four year old randomly said to me, after I kissed him: "I love you mommy, and I like how you smell." That right there made my day, and my week.

I'm happy because I was asked to be a speaker at this week's Mom Cafe: Connecting Inspired Moms, for Mama Musings, Blog Edition. (I am stressed, though, because I have to talk for 15 minutes, about myself, and um, that's hard!Also? I have nothing to wear.)

I'm happy because having nothing to wear at my event means I have no choice but to go shopping!

I'm happy because I am going on a much needed vacation (doctor's order!) to my favourite resort in south Florida at the end of this week with my mom and boys, along with my sister and her children. My boys and I are so excited, we've already started packing.

I'm happy that I don't have to cook tonight.

I'm happy that The Bachelor is on tonight, because my, what a train-wreck that show is!

What are you happy about?

Four, like that

2012-01-18T00:00:00.002-05:00

I read once that time is like a circus, always packing up and moving away. How true this is. Time passes, things change. Children grow. Too quickly, if you ask me. And sometimes, I want nothing more than to just pause time, because I want to hold on to the now forever.

How quickly does time pass? In the blink of an eye. Today, my baby boy, who I could swear was just born yesterday, is four years old. FOUR. YEARS! OLD.

As I snuggle beside him, breathing in his delicious smelling hair, looking at his precious baby face, I can't quite grasp the fact that it's been four years since we brought him home from the hospital. I was a way more relaxed mom, the second time around. Sure, I sat in the back seat on that drive home, but I was able to sleep easier, and nurse easier, and basically, just go with the flow easier.

My baby boy makes me smile. I don't care that my boys have a late bedtime and I don't care that I'm still sleeping beside my four year old, every single night. I am pretty sure when he's older, he's not going to want to sleep with me. For now, though... as long as needs me, I'll be there. Even if it means sleeping on 1/4 of my big bed, with his feet in my face. The lack of sleep that comes with being a mom? I'm used to it!

Dimitry is a character, and I am sure he is destined for something great. He is an actor, a drama superstar. He can give you looks that will melt you, and he's got a way of always getting his way. He's stubborn! He knows what he wants, and what he wants? He's determined to get. (I've no idea where he gets this from!) The strictest of my friends try to say no to him, but even they can't do it. He's a heartbreaker, a mama's boy, a helper, and always curious.

He got a drum set for his birthday. He loves it. As loud as it is, I love it to.

He wants to be in a band, and loves to dance and watch his favourite movies like Home Alone and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. He likes Curious George, probably because he's so much like that little, curious monkey.

He looks up to his older brother, and loves the company of older people. He would rather hang out and hear stories about days gone by from my grandparents than play with other children. He loves his family.

He will rub my back, smother me in sweet kisses, and let me win at Connect 4, because he just has that big of a heart. "Look, mommy, YOU won this time!" he'll declare.

My little D, though, he can be a trouble maker, too. He is very good at not listening!

"Just two more mittins, mommy, please?"
"Can I watch Home Alone: Family conditioner one more time?"
"Hey mommy? I love you. I'm just going to go get some chocolate, okay? Okay?"
"Hi, Ito, I love you!"
"Santa IS real. He makes presents in the factory!"
"I'm so proud of me!"
"I didn't do it on purpou, mommy."
"I know who Chris Columbus is. He makes movies. I love Joe Pesci!"

The love for my children keeps growing as each day passes, and I want nothing more than for my boys (and today especially, for my birthday boy) to follow their dreams with all their hearts. I'm always going to be here to encourage and support them, no matter what.

Happy Birthday, baby D! Mommy loves you SO much.

The truth about Motherhood

2012-01-12T00:00:00.001-05:00

Life changes dramatically once you become a mom. It's an incredibly amazing change, and yet, there are things about motherhood that we complain about.

Like the fact that we don't get to sleep anymore.

And the fact that we are constantly picking up after our children.

And the fact we live in a state of constant worry and never-ending fear.

And the fact that we're doing never-ending loads of laundry, while helping the children with homework, cooking dinner, preparing lunches for the next day, organizing birthday parties, making beds, hosting playdates, cheering on our children on the soccer field or in the swimming pool, making child-care arrangements, reading, playing, singing, stepping on LEGO, rushing to work, baking cupcakes at midnight, and wiping behinds... all... day... long.

And there are also days we have to put together certain toys that make us want to rip our hair out.

Ah, motherhood.

Yes, it's tiring, and not always glamorous. Sometimes, the best night of the week is the night you visit to the grocery store—alone. This has replaced the Friday night you once used to know, the Friday night that involved high heels and dinner at your favourite restaurant.

I'm not complaining, though. Being a mom is the most amazing job in the universe.

Here are just 10 things I love about motherhood:

I love that I made these people

"I can't believe I made you!" I say this all the time. I made a person. I made TWO people. I made two people that also happen to be my most favourite people, ever. I love the people they are, I love their different personalities, I love hearing their voices, and I love their hugs and kisses. They complete me. I love the people I created.

I love being a child again

It amazes me that now I'm the mom at school picking up her children, and not the child at school who is being picked up. When did I become the adult, and not the child running through the school yard with friends? Being a mom means that I can go down slides, play in the sand, make houses out of LEGO, and read my favourite childhood books again.

I love feeling proud

Nothing takes my breath away like watching my children do something they haven't done before. Whether it was the first time they walked, or the first time they wrote their name, I am always the over-enthusiastic mom beaming with pride. When my son receives Awards of the Month at his school my heart feels like it is going to explode. It's a great feeling.

I love learning

I've learned so much over these last six years, and every day, I am still learning something new. I'm being taught the basics of French again, thanks to my first grader. I've learned that Goldfish crackers are awesome. I've learned that I can multi-task, a lot. I've learned that I can go to the bathroom in an airplane while holding a baby in my arms and changing my toddler, all at the same time. I've learned that there is a lot left to learn. I also love teaching my children.

I love the little things

It's the little things I love the most about being a parent. I appreciate the daily routine. I love movie nights, and snuggling on the couch. I love seeing my children get enthusiastic about a construction truck or a butterfly, and I love seeing them excited about Christmas Day and Easter egg hunts. I marvel at their innocence.

I love feeling inspired

Nobody inspires me like my children do. They motivate me to be a better person, a better mom. I think about the future and the now, and I try to make the right decisions for them. I love seeing them care about the world, ask questions about life and the news, and talk about what they want to be when they grow up.

I love ice cream... and Happy Meals

No, we don't go to McDonald's often, but when we do, I order three Happy Meals, and my boys and I sit in the car and eat and talk and listen to music. Yeah, eating food that is not always good for you can sometimes be pretty awesome.

I love feeling needed

"MOMMY!" I'll never get tired of hearing my name, even in the middle of the night. I love sleeping beside my children, and I'll do it for as long as they want me to. Even if it means I'm sleeping with toes in my face.

I love observing

I sometimes can't contain my laughter when I hear the conversations between my two boys. They make me laugh, all the time. I love seeing them become best friends, even though they also fight and tear the house apart on a daily basis. I love watching and observing them. They're pure entertainment.

I love not having to care about dressing them

Let's face it, dressing boys is hands down far easier than dressing girls. There is no drama, no wrong pair of pants, no tantrum about the colour of shirt they wear. Whatever I pick out of their closet is good for them. This makes life a lot easier for me!

What about you? What do you love about motherhood?

This post was inspired by Mama Kat's weekly writing prompts.

A new year... a new me!

2012-01-05T00:00:00.004-05:00

It's the beginning of January. Which means one thing: it is so cold that every time I step outside my tears of sadness turn into ice and stay frozen to my face, and I'm not even kidding you. It is pretty miserable out there right now. Waking up and scraping ice off my car every morning on my drive to work only to hear on the radio: "It's currently minus 30 degrees celsius, and there is a frostbite warning in effect" makes me just weepy, and makes me question why my grandparents didn't get off the boat a little more... south, somewhere.

January also means many of us are making New Year's Resolutions!

I don't like to make resolutions because I know that by March I'll forget all about them and then I'll get mad at myself for not following through with my resolutions.

However, this hasn't stopped me, and once again, I'm starting off the year the same way I always do: (aw, tradition...)

I'm on a diet! And I'm hitting the gym EVERY DAY! This time, for more than a week! EVERY DAY except on weekends! You can do it, Loukia! And truth be told, because of an upcoming trip to my favourite place on earth (Hello, Florida! Hello, Mom 2.0 in May!) I am actually probably going to stay committed to this plan, because hello, bikini!

I have other resolutions, too, though. That as of yet have not been fully implemented, but I am a strong believer in "It's the thought that counts, so don't beat yourself up if you fail!"

Here are my top 12 New Year's Resolutions for 2012:

1. I will swear less, especially in front of my children. I say fuck way too often in front of my kids, and I promise to stop. Unless I'm dealing with really dumb people on the road while I'm driving.

2. I promise to not bake any more cookies. (Anyone need any cute cookie cutters?)

3. I will bring my lunch to work at least three times a week.

4. I will go to the doctor and talk about my anxiety and fears.

5. I will make more time to blog, and to do the things I love doing.

6. I will get through reading the stack of books on my night table before buying any new books.

7. I will go to bed before 1 a.m.

8. I will learn to have more patience.

9. I will stop crying every time I watch shows like Grey's Anatomy and Parenthood, or I'll stop watching these shows altogether, and stick to funny shows, like Modern Family.

10. I will keep the computer turned off when I'm home with my children.

11. I will spend less money. This means I will shop less. Gulp.

12. I will yell less, and smile more.

I hope these resolutions won't be too hard to keep, even though I know there will be some struggles along the way, especially with spending less money.

I will try really hard to make sure this year, I do what I say I am going to do. I'm hopeful that 2012 will be a great year. And the only thing that truly matters? Health and happiness, for my family and loved ones.

What are you going to do in 2012? What are your New Year's Resolutions?

Thanks to the always fabulous Mama Kat for the inspiration with this week's writing prompt!

Childhood celebrity crushes

2012-01-03T09:00:00.004-05:00

Bloggers are awesome because we admit almost everything about ourselves for the entire world to read, no matter how embarrassing it is.

We love to share information about ourselves because we're all a little vain and we're all a little geeky. (I figured out I was sort of a geek at BlogHer 2010. Admitting you're attending a blogging conference out loud sort of confirms this fact.) Blogging allows us to connect to one another on a different level, making us feel not so alone after reading a post about depression, or a post about how tiring it is to be a new mom. Blogging is free, awesome therapy.

Blogging allows us to share pictures of ourselves that are really embarrassing and blogging allows us to admit things that hardly anyone else knows about us.

Things that now make us cringe.

Like childhood celebrity crushes. As weird as they may be.

I asked people on Twitter who their crushes were, and I got a lot of Shaun Cassidy, (hi, Megan! hi, Sharon! hi, Kathy!) John Stamos, George Michael, Johnny Depp, Jon Bon Jovi and Al Pacino—totally acceptable to me.

Here are my bizarre celebrity childhood crushes, that range from completey bizarre to possibly not that crazy.

Otis Lee

I think my first childhood crush was on Otis Lee. Otis Lee, the Cabbage Patch Kid.

Otis Lee, Otis Lee, got no hair, but he don't care, good old Otis Lee!

Yes, there was a song all about him.

He was the leader of the Cabbage Patch Kids gang, and he was sooo cool. I don't even know if I had a crush on him or if... I just... I don't know? Liked him as a friend? Oh, it's all so weird! But I have memories of Otis Lee, and dancing and singing to his song in my friend's basement when I was a little girl. Maybe he was my first crush, ever, even though he was a... doll?

Daddy Warbucks

Oh, Daddy Warbucks. He was so cool, so tough, so very lovable. He was the perfect daddy for Annie and he even gave her a gift in a little blue box. Not to mention the fact that he lived in the coolest house ever. He came across as this mean, snobby man, but he was really a kind-hearted man with the best bald head, ever. I cannot tell you how many times I watched Annie when I was a child. I know the entire movie off by heart, to this day. My three year old's obsession with watching Home Alone is almost as bad as my Annie obsession was!

Skippy

Other people may have had a crush on Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties but not me! I liked Skippy, the sweet and geeky neighbour who lived next door who loved Mallory. Oh, Mallory... Skippy was so much sweeter than Nick!

Ben

I loved Growing Pains and I went through a Kirk Cameron phase—until his little brother grew up and then I was all pre-teen crushing on Ben. And remember that neck thing he's wearing? I had one too!

Jonathan

Remember Jonathan from Who's The Boss? He was so cute! And his hair! I think I liked all boys who had that hair style when I was 13. I also had a crush on Alyssa Milano and Tony Danza. How could you NOT love Tony Danza?

Chachi

I used to be addicted to Happy Days. I was so excited for the end of the school day so I could rush home to watch it. I had a crush on Chachi, especially around the time he and Joanie were getting married. Sigh...

Of course, it was impossible to not fall in love with The Fonz, too. He was the bad boy in the leather jacket and motorcycle, who was also the guy you'd run to for help in any situation. He was the tough guy on the outside, with the heart of gold. And um, he really got around!

River Phoenix

River Phoenix (sigh) in Stand By Me. I loved his character so, so much. I guess I loved Wil Wheaton, too, looking back.

I'm sure there are more childhood crushes buried deep in my memory, but these are the ones I remember. Or at least, the ones I'm willing to share with you!

What about you?

Spill it... what posters covered your walls when you were growing up? Who was your embarrassing childhood celebrity crush?

2011: A Year In Review

2011-12-30T00:00:00.005-05:00

This year we were rolling in the deep and moving it like Jagger. Britney got engaged, Jessica got pregnant, and the biggest wedding of the year took place in England. The world fell in love with Pippa, (sorry, Kate!) and everyone cheered when news broke about Osama, even those of us who thought UFO's had landed on earth, because what else could the breaking news so late at night be? As usual, all major news stories broke on Twitter first.

2011 was the year the world was supposed to end, with Rapture and dead birds and all, and yet, somehow, we survived. Take that, Kirk Cameron!

People occupied Wall Street and a brilliant man who forever changed technology passed away, leaving us all to mourn on our iPhone's, in sadness ~~while shaking our heads at the five people left on Earth who are still using Blackberry's.~~

2011 was a year filled with good news stories and awful, heartbreaking news.

This past year was also one that was filled with amazing opportunities that I'm so thankful for. It was the year my oldest son started grade one, and the year my baby started pre-school. I tend to share less about my children's lives on my blog, and more in my personal journals, but I'll never stop writing about my boys. My boys keep me laughing all day long and fill my heart with so much love, it hurts. We took a road trip to Maine and made new awesome holiday memories, and soaked up as much fun as we could this year as a family, but that's another year-end post for another time.

For now, here are my top blog posts of 2011:

2011 began with some new beginnings.

And some fear, too when I felt a lump and had my first mammogram.

As usual, we spent some time (never enough) in south Florida, where I got over my SAD for a week, at least.

I told you all about the things that annoy me.

And how hard it is to find balance.

I was ecstatic to be in the Top Ten to be the new co-host for Daytime Ottawa, and I had blast being Kelly Ripa for a day.

And I was truly honoured to be featured in The Ottawa Citizen as one of the city's top six fashion bloggers, and one of three fashion bloggers with Ottawa Magazine.

I wrote about what to expect when you become a mom, and how Bambi caused me life-long trauma.

I reminisced about Old School Blogging and the days that have passed.

I shared with you all where I'm from, one of my favourite posts of the year.
(Maybe even ever?)

I wrote about my Five Things.

I became Yummy Mummy Club's shopping blogger, which fell into place perfectly, because well... I love to shop, and I love to write about my love of shopping.

I popped some Ativan and went to San Diego for BlogHer'11.

I attended the Toronto International Film Festival and interviewed Heather Graham. She was gorgeous, and even though her acting wasn't that great in The Flying Machine, it was an awesome experience.

I was flown to New York City for the day for the Tommee Tippee launch, which tops my list of things I didn't think I'd be doing in 2011. A day trip to NYC with some awesome bloggers, complete with lunch in Saks with Marinka and Ali? Pretty awesome.

I admitted my problem with being dependently wealthy, and interviewed Gail Vaz-Oxlade over the phone, later meeting here at BlissDom Canada.

I turned (gulp) 35, and was lucky to have the chance to review the two-floor Presidential suite at the Marriott in Yorkville for my birthday weekend , complete with champagne, balloons, a yummy cake, plenty of shopping, and dinner with my closest friends. It was the best review I've done, and my boys still talk about the two-floor hotel room they ran around in for two days.

I hosted an event for Yellow Pages at the Pantages Hotel in Toronto, too. A trip to Toronto complete with yummy martinis and a room full of fabulous people was another highlight of my year.

Of course, what's a year gone by in the blogging world without some really, really embarrassing pictures being posted for the entire world to see?

I think my jazz hands ends 2011 with a bang, don't you?

Here's to a fantastic, healthy, happy, and successful 2012, everyone!

I hope we can all kick it old school blogging style in the new year (at least, I hope to) and spend more time reading and commenting on the blogs we love. All I want in 2012 is more time to spend with the people I love, and more time to do the things I love doing. Health and happiness, too! And no more snow.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

All I want for Christmas...

2011-12-23T09:14:00.011-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve Eve Day!

I'm hoping this year, no 9-1-1 calls to the fire department will be needed.

I have given up on baking, the presents are wrapped, and I've stocked up on wine. I think I'm ready! How about you?

I'm excited for tomorrow night, because Christmas Eve has always been the most magical night of all for me. It's the night my family celebrates the most, more than Christmas Day.

I have amazing childhood memories of Christmas Eve. We would sit around the tree, eating and eating (and eating), waiting patiently for 11 p.m. so we could head off to church for midnight mass. (Of course, no Greek household on Christmas Eve is complete without some family fighting, usually about a soccer game or something political, but that's just part of the festive season, right?) We'd return home shortly after midnight, and sit down to a huge Greek feast. More eating, of course, followed by opening all the presents.

The traditions continue with my children now, and we will celebrate tomorrow night at my parent's house, with our entire family. The list of food my grandmother and mother are preparing for tomorrow night's celebration is lengthy, and tasty. I will do my best to enjoy it all and worry about diets and and calorie counting on January 1st. Christmas Day we'll spend with the inlaw's, as is our tradition, too, and have a second huge celebration including more gifts and presents with our extended family.

All I want for Christmas (besides a villa in Monaco and a trip to Capri) is to just relax and enjoy every second with my little boys, and my family. To me, that's what Christmas is all about. Also, making sure my wine glass if always full of wine. Or champagne. Or Bailey's.

Cheers!

I want to wish YOU ALL a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukkah, and Happy Holidays... eat, drink, and be merry!

Cookie trauma: The drama in the kitchen

2011-12-19T07:00:00.003-05:00

Christmas is a week away, so it comes as no surprise that every other picture I'm seeing on Instragram is of someone's fabulous cookies that they just baked.

Dozens of beautiful cookies, perfectly frosted with homemade icing and dazzling sprinkes. I'm also reading Facebook status after Facebook status of: "Baked six dozen gingerbread men cookies today for my cookie exchange, and a chocolate layer cake, and then I cooked a seven course dinner for my family while polishing my silver and did two back-to-back Body Pump classes!" Okay, maybe not that extreme, but you know what I mean. There are some serious bakers out there, yo.

For some bizarre reason, I get the urge to bake every weekend. I start out all excited, and use Twitter as my Google, asking questions to people I know are excellent in the kitchen.

"What IS buttermilk? Is it, like, cream?"
"What is a pound of butter? 4 sticks?"
"Is parchment paper the same as wax paper?"
"Is it okay if I forgot to use only the white of the eggs? How the hell am I supposed to get out only the white of the eggs, anyway?"
"1/4 teaspoon is pretty much 1/2 teaspoon, right?"
"I forgot the sprinkes on the cookies I just baked. Can I just add them now?"

And so on, and so on. Week after week, I try to bake, and week after week, I am completely unsatisfied with the time I wasted in my kitchen, trying to do something I am miserable at. And then! I have to clean up my kitchen! Some people are just not meant to bake. I am one of those people. I would rather shove my face in snow than bake. I would rather clean bathrooms all day. I would rather anything else, really.

Last year, I stressed about baking and came to terms with the fact that I wasn't going to be making any Martha Stewart type cookies for the holidays. I was going to stick to good old-fashioned sugar cookies, and I was going to be okay with that.

This year, even sugar cookies took a turn for the worst. Also, related: I always confuse sugar cookies and shortbread cookies, and still don't know which ones I prefer.

I work full-time during the week, so I spend all my time with my boys on the weekends just being in the moment. I bake mostly so my children can remember their mother and the smell of baked goods in the kitchen when they're older, but truth be told, the excitement to help me bake lasts a total of three minutes for my boys, and then they're off doing something a lot more exciting. I also usually end up yelling at them for spilling all the flour or having icing sugar fights, and that's when I want to give up. But I never do. I will finish every project I start, even though I am not enjoying myself.

Cookies you'll never see baked by me:

Not ever:

Cookies I baked today:

They're pretty bad, right?

I forgot to add the sprinkles to the first batch of cookies I baked. In a desperate attempt to save them, I added the sprinkles after I took them out of the oven. That didn't work, as you can see. I got brave with the second batch, and made icing sugar for the cookies (or whatever it's called) and the icing sugar looked awful. How people get it looking so perfect, I'll never understand. After all that hard work - we're talking hours here - I gave up, and spent the next hour cleaning my kitchen, cursing myself under my breath.

Two hours later my three year old wandered into the kitchen and accidentally dropped all the cookies to the floor, breaking them all. This ended my awful day of baking with a bang.

It was the bang, the awakening, that I needed. I am done. Done with baking. If anyone needs nice Christmas cookie cutters, they're yours.

I have accepted that I am not meant to spend this much time in the kitchen. I am not going to attempt to bake cookies for Christmas again. And this makes me very, very happy. Sure, I'll still cook, since I have a family to feed, and yes, there are quite a few meals I'm great at making. (Even though I have set off the fire alarm too many times to count.) I am also great at making carrot cake and cream cheese icing, so a few times a year, I'll bake the one thing I'm good at. Other than that? No more.

Next year, I'll just stick to the things I'm good at during the holidays: decorating the house, shopping for the people I love, and wrapping presents. I did work as a professional gift wrapper when I was in unveristy, you know!

Now, I can sit back and enjoy the amazing Greek baked goods my grandmother just dropped off, with no pressure on me.

It feels good, to accept to the truth.

The gift of gold

2011-12-06T12:08:00.009-05:00

I'm happy to report that most of my Christmas shopping is complete. Of course, there are several people on my list I haven't shopped for yet, but I'm strange and I love waiting for the last minute to shop. I like being a mall in the middle of the afternoon on December 24th. Call me crazy, but it's something I love to do.

Every year I give my children typical presents I know they'll love—things they've asked for, from LEGO to books to DVD's. We also donate to CHEO and give several new items to children who are with the Children's Aid Society, as well as drop off toys for the Toy Mountain, because the best part about the holiday season is giving, especially to those less fortunate than us.

Something else I love doing for my children every year is getting them something extra special. A gift that won't lose value over time and a gift they'll cherish for years to come.

My six year old is into collecting special coins and gold bars. He absolutely loves visiting the Royal Canadian Mint—and I do, too. Taking a tour of the Mint is educational, and a lot of fun. The Mint was built in 1908, and currently produces hand-crafted collector and commermorative coins, gold bullion coins, medals and medallions. The Vancouver 2010 Olympic medals were made in this facility, too—these medals were so neat to see up close! The Mint's gold refining and advanced engineering operations are also located right here in Ottawa.

This Christmas, I wanted to surprise my son with a special gold coin. I knew he would love
the new Fine Gold Cougar Coin as soon as I saw it on the Mint's website.

I asked the @CanadianMint on Twitter if they had any of these gold coins left in their store and within minutes, I received an email from them, telling me how much they love my blog and how they'd love to work with me on a review and giveaway with this goild coin. Isnt' that amazing?

I was so excited, and I know my big boy will be thrilled on Christmas Day to see this shiny new gold coin to add to his collection.

Let me just pause here for a moment to say how in love I am with Twitter. The power of Twitter never ceases to amaze me.

The Mint is so amazing they are also giving one of my readers the exact same gold coin. You're in luck because these gold coins are so popular that they're not even beeing shipped out until mid-December.

This special collector's gold coin is struck in 99.99% pure gold and is a collectible keepsake.

Perhaps there is another child out there who also loves collecting coins or gold? This would be the perfect gift for that child—or adult! It's the gift that will be cherished forever, and it will never lose its value.

To win this gold coin, please leave me a comment below telling me what special gifts you like to give your children for the holidays or for special occassions. Do you have certain traditions, too?

I'll pick a winner randomly on December 13th.

Good Luck!

Dare to try

2011-12-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks to L'Oreal for sponsoring my post about my favorite beauty looks, tips and tricks! Check out Makeup.com for beauty advice from the experts.

I love make-up. Let me rephrase that: I love make-up. There are two types of stores I could spend countless numbers of hours in: a book store, and a make-up store. Sephora after-hours? Yes, please! Or, any make-up counter, on earth? I'm so there. I have so many tubes of lip gloss I have lost count. You could say I'm a little obsessed.

Some people keep buying new shoes, but me? I buy new make-up every chance I can. Make-up is always the right size, always brightens my look, and doesn't damange my bank account in a bad way.

I wear the same eye shadow, eye liner, lip gloss and blush almost every day and I've gotten so good at applying my own make-up I can practically do it in the dark without looking like a clown. But for evenings and special events, I love to try new looks. And now that the holidays are here, I love anything that sparkles! I also love the look of a dramatic, smokey eye.

I recently tried Bobbi Brown's new holiday line, and I fell in love. They have a variety of colours to choose from, and will look amazing on all skin tones, depending on the look you're trying to achieve.

With the right tools, you can make your eyes pop. Even without the help of a professional make-up artist! An eyelash curler and some mascara, and the fact that I've only slept 4 hours the night before is not so evident anymore. I always wear my Maybelline The Falsies Volume Express Flared mascara. I swear, this is the best mascara you'll ever own. It does wonders to your eyes, and you'll almost never look tired again! If I'm doing up my eyes, I always make sure my lips aren't too bright. I love a light pink lip gloss—one with extra shine!

This holiday season, I dare you to walk up to your favorite make-up counter, and ask them to doll you up, holiday style. You will love how glamorous you look, I promise. And? With your make-up looking so good, you won't need to stress about what to wear!

I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective. Click here to learn more about Makeup.com or become a Facebook fan by clicking here.

Holiday giveaway time! (Part two)

2011-11-28T00:00:00.005-05:00

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... well, not quite yet. There is still no snow. There was, for a couple of days, but it melted with our warm temperatures. However, this lack of snow doesn't make me feel any less festive. (Which makes me wonder... maybe Christmas in Florida wouldn't be so bad, after all?)

After a fabulous giveaway with one of my favourite toy stores, Tag Along Toys, it's time for my second holiday giveaway!

This time, with Mastermind Toys.

Mastermind Toys has been selling toys for children for over 26 years, and with 13 years selling online, they know a thing or two about what the hottest toys of the season are! I lost track of time when I was looking through their online store, because there are so many items to choose from. Mastermind Toys also has 11 stores in and around Toronto, so if you prefer shopping in-store rather than online, you can do that, too.

Two of their most popular items this holiday season?

The SmartLab Weird and Wacky Contraptions Lab and the SmartLab Glow In The Dark Lab. And guess what? I am giving BOTH away to one of my readers!

The SmartLab Weird and Wacky Contraptions Lab is over 2 feet tall and has 60 mix-and-match pieces so your children can build an unlimited amount of contraptions. This is a popular toy with kids, because they can create and build their own course and test them using the easy velcro-like system. Doesn't it look fun?

The SmartLab Glow in the Dark Lab is also a huge hit, especially with kids who love everything science. (My six year old would love this!) You can make science experiments that glow, ooze, and bounce while using all sorts of lab tools and potions. You can even create a lava lamp, glowing slime, glow balls and more.
Mastermind Toys also helped make Christmas shopping easier for me by sending me a Dora and Diego cook book my three year old will love, and the LEGO Sort and Store Head! My six year old is going to love dumping container after container of LEGO into this cool sorter, and I'm just thrilled that his LEGO will finally be stored in one place, and not in boxes all over the house!

With so many amazing products, you can get all your online holiday shopping done at Mastermind Toys. They even gift wrap for you! You're welcome.

To win these two products, please leave me a comment telling me what your children are asking for this Christmas!

I'll pick a winner randomly on December 4th.

Good Luck, and stay tuned for next week's giveaway with Mrs. Tiggy Winkles!

Oh, and I'm also giving away a Balance Bike on my Yummy Mummy Club shoppng blog! This bike is a must for kids under 5 yeras old, and an awesome gift for your little one. You should totally go enter!

Old school pictures

2011-11-22T09:00:00.004-05:00

If I could go back in time to give younger me some advice, it would be something like this:

"It gets so much better. You'll get braces. And your hair will be awesome one day."

Followed by: "What are you thinking?"

I came across pictures in my mom's closet ~~where I was looking for Christmas presents~~ last week. It was sort of like opening pandora's box. Well, maybe not that bad, but almost.

I have mostly happy memories of my childhood, mixed with a very awkward stage that a lot of us went through. Those God-awful middle school years.

I'm convinced this had everything to do with bad hair, pre-waxed eyebrows, shoulder pads, and acid-washed, high-waisted jeans that were always too short.

And awful purple Bonne Bell lip gloss.

I was the queen of bad hair. Having naturally curly hair can be a blessing and a curse, depending on if you know what to do with it. I did not. Clearly, my parents didn't know how to deal with it, either, so when I was 9 years old, they thought it would be cool to cut all my hair off. This resulted in me having hair nightmares, because short hair on me? Is the biggest DON'T ever. Oh, but my hair grew back. Chi-chi-chi-chia... And once again, it was... well... big hair. And sort out of control.

My past is filled with memories of summers in Greece, where I'd play with Patapouf and Bibi-Bo, drink Nou-nou chocolate milk and orange Fanta, and eat Dracula Fingers chips while reading trashy romance novels.

The summer I was almost 13 was the summer of Debbie Gibson and Tiffany playing on repeat on my yellow Sony walkman on a beautiful island in Greece. I had a favourite white skirt and navy blue top with shoulder pads. Shoulder pads! I loved that outfit. Right down to the white penny loafers. (Really, Loukia?)

I posed a lot, back in the day. Like leaning up against a wall type posing. Not sure what look I was going for here. This was the summer I was 14, when I was in England. I had bad hair but good taste in books. I read Wuthering Heights that summer, thinking there was no better place to read it than the place it was written. And I wore really short shorts. God, I loved those shorts.

I was all about desert boots and duckies, Tretorns and push-down socks, Esprit and Benetton. I kept journals where I wrote bad poetry, that I still have today. Most of what I wrote is cringe-worthy, of course. A blog post in itself, if I'm ever looking for something to write about. I had Hilroy notebooks turned into scrapbooks filled with pictures of celebrities, and collections of BOP magazines. I tried hard to perfect the Alyssa Milano circa Who's The Boss? pouf. It never worked on me, but my best friends, blessed with straight hair, had the best pouf's ever.

I used to be a dancer, and took the obligatory recital pictures, year after year. This picture shows me in my least favourite costume, ever. Again, this picture is majorly cringe-worthy. I am the reason the term "jazz hands" exists today.

While in high school I finally figured out how to handle my unruly curls (hint: don't brush them!) and fell in love with fashion. I got rid of my braces and I won "best dressed" my graduating year which isn't something to be that proud of, but still. I had come a long way from just a few years before!

In university I was too busy studying to even remember what I wore, but college years were all about pleather tops that exposed way too much skin, and... why do I look like a bobble head? A few months after this picture was taken I landed my internship at CBS TV in D.C, and got my style sense back. When I wasn't at the TV station I was in Georgetown, shopping and maxing out my credit card. Some things never change, I guess.

I think pictures stopped being embarrassing after college.

Since then I've learned a thing or two: pleather is always a no, especially red pleather snakeskin pants, find a good hair stylist, and remember that confidence comes from within. It's not about the size of pants you wear or where your clothes are from. The pictures I get the most compliments on are the ones where I'm smiling my biggest, most sincere smiles. Usually it's when I'm thinking about my children.

So there you have it. My most embarrassing pictures, ever, exposed on my blog. It's totally a blogging rite of passage, isn't it?

Please tell me... do have pictures from back in the day that make you cringe? That make you shake your head and wonder what you were thinking? That make you laugh out loud? Or is it just me?

I'm in a giving mood...

2011-11-21T00:00:00.002-05:00

It's official. I'm feeling festive. Despite the lack of snow and the unseasonably warm weather, I am so excited that the holidays are almost here. Seriously. Only one month left! It seems we went from trick-or-treating to deck-the-halls in no time at all. I start feeling a little festive the day I see the red cups at Starbucks. They make me so excited... and anxious!

The panic is slowly setting in. The calendar is filling up quickly with holiday parties and events, Christmas lists are being made, shopping is about to get started, baking will soon commence, (God help me) and presents will need to get wrapped. (My area of expertise!)

Well, I'm here to offer you some relief, at least in the shopping department. I'm like Santa's little helper, red hat and all.

Every week until mid-December, I'll be having a holiday giveaway with some of my favorite stores, just for you... just for your children!

Last year, I was fortunate enough to work with Tag Along Toys on a fantastic holiday giveaway, where I gave away a Corolle doll and a Playmobil set.

I'm excited to be working with Tag Along Toys again this holiday season!

This year, I brought my boys with me to help pick out some items for the giveaway.

Tag Along Toys is an amazing toy store in Ottawa's west end, owned by a mom who is also a registered early childhood educator. That came as no surprise to me, as Patti welcomed my boys in to her store with open arms, selecting items that were perfect for them. Kids in a candy store? This was even better! They did not want to leave, and were running around the store happily pointing out all the toys they thought would make great presents, for themselves, and for others.

Tag Along Toys has been around for over 10 years and is also known as "Aladdin's Cave for Kids." There is something here for all the children on your shopping list, from babies to teens. One stop shop? Indeed. Books, educational toys, Playmobil, play kitchens, and items by Djeco, Schleich, Plany Toys, Kiss Naturals and more fill the shelves. Thre is a huge selection of bath toys, puzzles and construction vehicles. Needless to say, my boys were in heaven! You can also place special orders, and get your purchases gift wrapped.

Tag Along Toys offers discounts to teachers and educators everyday, and they have Grandparents Day on the last Thursday of every month where all purchases are 20% off. Isn't that amazing?

This holiday season, I'm excited to be giving away a very awesome Pirates Mosaic Craft Set. My six year old has the Dragon Mosaic Set, and he loves it. It's a wonderful craft and it's not messy at all. You can create 4 different scenes and the end result is just awesome. If your children are crafty at all, this is perfect for them.
I also have a fabulous Kiss Naturals giveaway that will keep your little ones busy for hours on end. Kiss Naturals are fun all-natural do it yourself kits, and I have not one, not two, but three kits to give away: the lip balm kit, the soap kit, and the bath fizzies kit. These kits make great gifts for Christmas or birthday parties. Also? Kiss Naturals is a Canadian company.

To win these awesome gifts, just leave me comment below telling me what you love the most about the holidays.

Bonus entry number 1: Follow @TagAlongToys on Twitter.

Bonus entry number 2: Become a fan of Loulou's Views on Facebook, and follow @MrsLoulou on Twitter.

I'll pick a winner randomly on November 27, 2011.

Good Luck!

Also, I'd love for you to follow my shopping blog over at Yummy Mummy Club! I'll be offering tips on holiday shopping and what the hottest items for the season are. I just had an awesome giveaway with Old Navy, too, and someone won a new winter coat!

The holidays are all about giving, right?

Stay tuned for more great giveaways with Balance Bikes, Mrs. Tiggy Winkles and MasterMind Toys!

Little white lies

2011-11-16T23:03:00.008-05:00

"SANTA! OH MY GOD! SANTA'S COMING! I KNOW HIM! I KNOW HIM!" Buddy the Elf

"Mommy, does Santa ever die?" my six year old was full of questions on our drive home tonight.

Yes, the best conversations always happen when I'm driving with my boys. I ask my children about their day, who they played with, what they learned, if they ate all their lunch, and so on. Conversations, back-and-forth, between my boys and I. Moments I cherish. Until the hard questions are asked. And I'm um, sometimes left wondering what to say.

"No, sweetie... Santa doesn't die," I reply, accepting the fact that I'm lying to my own child.

"Well, how come? Why doesn't he die?" the questions I don't want to answer have finally arrived. My baby is at that age. Six years old, and he's already figured out I'm the magical tooth fairy that leaves him money and a personal letter with every lost tooth. He's wise beyond his years, and he's figured out that Santa is not real. But I can't just give in like that. I have to try to keep the magic alive, don't I?

"Well, he's magical!" I say, because really, I don't know, I'm talking about a make-believe old dude who delivers presents to every good girl and boy on earth in one night on a flying sled with flying reindeer, one with a shiny red nose. Perhaps he's figured out the space-time continuum and is smarter than all of us? Oh, wait... he isn't real.

Truth is, I don't think I ever really believed in Santa, because the house I lived in as a young child didn't have a fireplace.

(Note to self: Remember to write a post about the time in grade six I stuck a car lighter on my nose to see if it would hurt, and what I was called for the rest of the year.)

"Well, I don't believe that Santa is real," my six year old said to me. "He's not real. He is just made up."

Gulp...

"Nooo!" says my little dude, my three year old. "Santa is real and he makes his toys in the factory!"

"That's right, little D! He does!"

And then, I change the subject as quickly as I can because I feel guilty that I'm lying to my baby boy, and I feel guilty that I'm not insisting that Santa is real to my oldest son. I think my six year old still sort of maybe believes in Santa, but I can't be certain.

As a mom, I sometimes feel guilty when I am knowingly lying to my children, even though I know it's not going to damage them later in life.

"There is no more chocolate in this house. Yes, I'm serious!"
"You realize that Santa is watching, right? You better behave!"
"If you don't stop complaining, I will return that toy I just bought you!"
"See the police station over there? You have two minutes to stop fighting or else..."
"If you swallow your gum, it'll stay in your stomach for seven years!"

The Santa lie, though? I have a really hard time with that one. Because I actually feel bad that I'm making my children believe in something that is completely untrue.

And yes, I have seen Elf a hundred times, and I love it. And it almost makes me believe... but not quite. (And if you're real, Santa? I want keys to a condo in South Florida. Thanks!)

For now, though, at least this year, for my six year old? There will be a gift from Santa for him, under our Christmas tree, like every other year, right next to his brother's.

After all... Christmas is kind of magical, isn't it? And I guess this is one little white lie I'll try to keep up until I can't anymore.

The best idea ever

2011-11-13T23:00:00.004-05:00

Parenthood is messy. I realized this the day I was peed on when I was changing my baby's diaper days after I had given birth. I'm reminded of the messiness when I clean vomit from the car or from my bed. Children can be messy.

Two days ago, I found my three year old in the bath-tub, covered in an entire bottle of Zincofax, mixed together with an entire bottle of Johnson's baby lotion. It took a long time to get him clean, and his skin is still softer than it was the day he was born.

Yup. Parenthood is messy. But messes? I can handle. Something I can't handle, though? Something that makes me break out into a cold sweat, gasping for air?

Public bathrooms. See, I suffer from Mysophobia. The fear of germs. (I have a lot of other fears, too.)

Of course, because I have this fear, my children will always, always have to go the bathroom when we're in the mall, at a restaurant, in the grocery store, or on a road trip. Gone are the days when I could walk into Banana Republic to change my baby's diaper in the change room without anyone knowing, because well, my boys aren't in diapers anymore. (I used to breastfeed in change rooms, too, in case you wanted to know.)

You might think I'm crazy to have such a fear, but when my children have to go-go? They do it without their clothes on.

So picture me, hyper-paranoid mom, dealing with my children sitting on a toilet seat, with their clothes off, sometimes using their little hands to position themselves on the seat better. I stand, biting my nails nervously as the toilet paper I used to cover the toilet seat falls into the toilet. I tell them to hurry up, because there is only so much I can take, and we wash our hands, leaving as quicky as possible, as I rummage through my purse for my Purell. Those nights? They stay in the bath an extra, extra long time.

Although there is not much I can do to avoid these types of situations, there is something I do to avoid nervous breakdowns when my boys have to pee.

Instead of watching my children come into contact with a germ infested public toilet seat, I carry a plastic cup or an empty water bottle with me. So when my boys have to do their business? I calmly walk them into the bathroom, and they pee into the bottle or cup. I flush the liquid down the toilet, dispose of the cup or bottle, wash our hands, and we are on our way. This has come in handy so many times. With a three year old, there are a lot of emergency stops made while driving, and now, my little dude doesn't even have to get out of the car when he has to go sometimes.

I just have to add here that since my six year can reach the toilet seat in most establishments, he doesn't pee in a cup. My three year old does, in some public bathrooms if the toilet seat is too high. Or if the bathroom is really, really gross. And? I'm totally fine with this.

Anything that makes my life as a mom easier? I totally support.

Am I a genius or what?

New York City on a whim...

2011-11-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Last Thursday, I was in a taxi at 4:30 a.m., on my way to the airport.

I was heading to New York City—one of my most favourite cities ever— for a Tommee Tippee event, for the day. Nothing can get me out of bed with a smile at 4:30 a.m., unless of course, it's to spend the day in NYC.

Also on the agenda: lunch with Marinka and Ali in Saks Fifth Avenue, on the 8th floor.

The shoe floor.

Seriously. It was an awesome day.

New York City with fabulous people, attending an event about a great baby company, and lunching with some of my favourite people on the shoe floor of Saks... sigh. All in a day's work.

My taxi driver was nice enough to have a coffee waiting for me in the car, however, being the paranoid person I am, I wasn't sure I should drink it. What if his intentions were to poison me, and months later an innocent jogger were to discover my body in some random forest? After some back-and-forth conversation, which is always so.much.fun at 4:30 a.m., I decided to drink the coffee. The first sip woke me up enough to remind me that I forgot my Ativan, and I never fly without Ativan when I'm flying without my children. So I stopped drinking the coffee, in order to remain in a sleep-like state, much like how it feels to be on Ativan.

The thing is, I hate flying.

No matter how often I get on a plane, I am never relaxed. At least when my children are with me, I'm too busy keeping them occupied I don't have time to think about the plane falling out of the sky. Because really, no matter how many times it's explained to me, it doesn't make sense that an incredibly heavy piece of metal can stay in the sky without falling, and on top of that, somehow land where it is supposed to land. And turbulence being "nothing to worry about" is something I don't really believe. When the plane "falls" a bit in the sky? It's scary. The only thing I do on the plane is eat, so I can have energy to tread water for hours until I'm rescued, should the plane fall into a body of water.

Despite my fear of flying, every flight I take is worth it, New York City being no exception. Being flown to New York City for a blogging related event was the coolest thing ever, and a great experience.

I loved:

Sitting beside Reeva on the flight from Toronto to New York City—she kept me calm, and talking to her for the hour made me forget I had no drugs to calm me down!

Being called Britney Spears by a crazy dude. Really, really loudly, downtown in New York City.

Seeing Jessica again.

Learning about a fabulous baby company and wishing I was pregnant for the third time.

Tearing up during the The Day You Were Born video demonstration.

Imagining I lived in the apartment in downtown NYC that the event took place in. It was the coolest apartment ever, and the decor was amazing.

Enjoying the balcony of this apartment on an unseasonably warm and sunny day.

Testing out sippy cups with Ali.

Meeting Marinka for lunch in Saks. Even though we were running late—forgive us, Marinka!

Saks Fifth Avenue fries.

Comparing hair trauma stories with Ali as Marinka looked at us as like we were crazy.

Getting hooked on Hanky Panky's. (Thanks, Ali!)

Discovering the world of American Girl dolls. (I'm lucky I only have boys. If I had a daughter I'd be in serious trouble!)

Taking a picture of Rockerfeller Center for my three year old, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York obsessed son.

Laughter, great conversations, and some retail therapy, all under $100.

It really was a surreal day that re-confirmed to me how much I love everything about blogging, my blogging community, and the incredible opportunties I get to be a part of.

Top five scariest movies ever

2011-10-31T00:00:00.005-04:00

It's after midnight on Halloween Eve and here I sit, watching another episode of Criminal Minds, looking at pictures of The Grudge on the internet. (Later, I'll be wondering why I have a hard time falling asleep...)

I'm easily spooked. I mean, everything scares me. Not just spiders and insects. Not just jumping out of a plane or running out of coffee. My fears and worries? They're never-ending, and they consume me all day long.

Scary things have happened to me in real life, like almost getting kidnapped in D.C., having a strange man play with my hair on the subway in Queens, New York at 5 a.m after a night out, accidentally going down a black diamond ski hill, and having a gun pulled on me in the middle of winter. (That's a story for another blog post!)

However, there is something that frightens me even more than all those things.

Scary movies.

Certain scary movies stay with me long after I've left the theatre. There are scary movies that I can watch that don't spook me much after viewing, like Friday the 13th, Scream, or Halloween. Other movies, though? Haunt me, years later.

Here are the top five spookiest movies ever:

The Shining

What do you get when you combine Stanley Kubrick and Stephen King? One hell of a scary movie. Whenever I walk down a long hallway in a hotel, trying to get to my room late at night, I think about certain scenes from The Shining. Jack Nicholson was amazing in this movie, and The Shining was one of the only Stephen King novels that did well on the big screen, right after Stand By Me. The movie haunts me to this day. Kids are usually not creepy looking, but this movie made me terribly afraid of kids. Twins, in particular.

The Grudge

This movie is hands down the scariest movie I have ever had the displeasure of seeing. I don't know what possessed me to see this movie in the theatre in the first place, but having seen it only once, I am still completely freaked out. I don't do well watching movies having to do with the supernatural or the paranormal. The drive home from the movies that night was an especially scary drive home. I kept looking in my rear-view mirrow to see if that creepy little boy would be staring back at me. This movie changed the way I do things at home. I can't open a closet until the lights are on and I can't leave any doors open at night, because I'm scared I'm going to see that freaky little face. I hate this movie and the images that are forever etched in my mind.

The Ring

My best friend literally slid out of her seat in fear during this movie and make a sound I didn't know humans were capable of. That's how scary The Ring was. It is very haunting film, filled with creepy images. The story is about a journalist investigating a videotape that apparently kills its viewers seven days after they watch it. Of course, the fear of watching The Ring was that we would only have seven days left to live, too. (Okay, I didn't really believe this, but when those seven days were over, I celebrated!)

The Blair Witch Project

Before Facebook and Twitter existed, a little film called The Blair Witch Project was created. In 1994, three college students went into the woods in Maryland to do a film project about the "Blair Witch" incidents. They were never seen again, and the film was "footage" from their equipment that was found a year later in the woods. The movie documents their adventures leading up to their final minutes. I think we all knew it wasn't really real, yet, I've never left a theatre that was so silent before. The last few minutes of this film are incredibly frightening, and confirmed to me what I already knew: I'm never, ever going camping in the woods!

Paranormal Activity

There are scary movies about haunted houses, and there's Paranormal Activity. I never wanted to see this movie, because I knew if I did, I'd become even more paranoid than I already am. One night, though, it was on TV and I could not look away. That was a big mistake because now I can't even be on the main level of my house with the lights off. If I need water, I'll drink from the bathroom sink, something I'd never think about doing before this movie came along and screwed up my mind. Paranormal Activity is so scary, (I get chills just typing that) I can't imagine seeing the other two. However, a part of me does want to see Paranormal Activity 3 to see just how bad it could be. Apparently, the last 15 minutes will, and I quote, "screw you up for the rest of your life."

What about you?

What movie scares you silly? What movie do you swear you'll never see again? Was there a movie you saw that changed the way you now do things, because it's scared you so much?

Oh, and Happy Halloween. Or whatever you're supposed to say on this spooky day!

Inspiration

2011-10-25T10:24:00.010-04:00

On Saturday, I was featured in The Ottawa Citizen newspaper, online and in print. The article was called Ottawa's Fashion Bloggers Extraordinaire: Meet six from the sisterhood of the travelling iPhones. One of the questions asked who my inspiration was. That was an easy answer—hands down, the person who I find most inspiring is my mother.

My mom had a passion in life. Her passion was to be an artist. Although she grew up in a rather strict Greek household, in which education was the most important thing of all, (and the arts not highly valued as a 'real' career choice) she never gave up her dream to pursue her passion. She would hide her drawings in the middle of her school notebooks, so her father wouldn't see. Although she never went to school for art, she was born with talent, and a desire to paint.

Every day people give up steady pay-cheques to chase their dream. My mom did this when she was 30, when my sister and I were both young. She quit a secure job working for Ottawa's Doctor Keon, and jumped into her art career full force, with determination and a positive attitude. Her best friend who later died from breast cancer pushed her to chase her dream, telling her how talented she was.

In the days before social media and the internet, my mom literally walked into a prestigious art gallery with paintings in her arms. As she was showing the gallery owner, someone walked in and said: "I'll take it!" and right there, my mom was accepted into her first gallery.

Her career took off. She is represented in fine art galleries throughout Canada, and in the Koyman Galleries here in Ottawa. Her paintings brighten the halls in the maternity ward of the Civic Campus of the Ottawa Hospital as well as the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. Princess Diana, former PM Jean Chretien, Julio Iglesias, Roger Moore, Mila Mulroney, and Nana Mouskari are collectors of her art, and she's been awarded a Governor General Women of Distinction Award for Women in the Arts. She's been featured in The Ottawa Citizen, Ottawa At Home Magazine, Odyssey Magazine, Magazine D'Art, and more. She's worked with United Nations on art campaigns, with Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, and has been the face of UNICEF holiday cards since 1993. She's also working with the Children's Wish Foundation on a series of holiday cards this year, raising funds where they're needed most.

She recently illustrated a children's book that has sold in book stores like Chapters, and it's a dream of ours to write and illustrate a children's book together one day soon.

My mom also inspired my sister to start painting, and my sister is busy selling her children's art work, too. I guess we're an artistic family of sorts. Complete with craziness. (You should see how loud we are around the dinner table!)

The best part of her success story is the fact that she's been able to help many people through her art. I've read the letters she's received about how people of all ages relate to her work, how they feel comforted by the children depicted in the paintings, and how certain pieces bring back memories of childhood. Most touching of all, though, are the stories having to do with children.

It's personal stories that really touch my heart—like finding out a couple donated over a dozen paintings to the children's hospital after their child had passed away. Or the story about a man who, after losing his home to a fire, asked my mom to create a painting of his old house, so the family would always remember it. Every day, there are stories that make the fact that my mom followed her dream so worthwhile.

This weekend, here at Ottawa's Koyman Gallery, Rideau Centre location, my mom is having an art show with her latest pieces. She'll be in attendance, as will I, since I am her number one fan.

I'd love to see you there, too. The show takes place on Saturday, October 29 and on Sunday, October 30th, from 12 to 4.

If you can't make it to her Ottawa show, she's having a show in Toronto at Artworld of Sherway in the Sherway Gardens mall, on December 3rd, from 12 to 5.

Sometimes, chasing after your dream is worth it, and my mom inspires me to do the same with my writing.

Five things

2011-10-19T21:10:00.011-04:00

During the opening keynote that Catherine Connors so fabulously delivered at BlissDom Canada, she talked about her "five things". It got everyone thinking about what their "five things" were. The one I had most trouble with was "five things people don't know about me", since as a ~~narcissistic~~ blogger I tend to talk about myself—a lot. Not only that, but I've been blogging for almost five years, so it's hard to come up with new things that people do not already know about me. I worry, I love to shop, I multi-task, I love my children, I interned at some fabulous places, and I was almost kidnapped... yeah, yeah, Loukia, tell us something we don't already know!

Well, here you go:

Five things you don't know about me:

1. I have a bad case of FOMO. (Fear Of Missing Out.) I hate saying no because saying no means I'm going to miss out on something. Like when I left BlissDom Canada on Saturday at 6 p.m. only to find out that Jordan Knight was at the costume party? Yeah, I was missing out.

2. I have to wear my socks inside out, because I hate the way the inside of socks feel on my feet. (Like, little athletic socks. Hate them.) I also like to sleep with socks on sometimes.

3. I am a great swimmer and will win almost any race, against anyone, man or woman. Probably not against Michael Phelps, though. I could swim in the ocean (or pool) all day long.

4. I read Wuthering Heights when I was 14 years old because I was in England that summer and I figured there was no better place to read it. I loved it.

5. I spent six weeks watering fake plants when I was a high school co-op student at an interior design firm. One day, my boss told me the plants were not real and I was totally mortified.

Five things I am knowledgeable about:

1. I know how to shop, and I'm fun to shop with. Unless you're on a budget, then perhaps you should stay home. Shopping gives me a high. I love being in department stores like Saks and I often daydream about being locked in one of those stores for the night. I'd try on clothes until security escorted me away. I could also spend countless hours in a book store.

2. I know that Dazed and Confused is one of the best movies ever, and I could recite the entire movie to you, and sing along to the soundtrack, perfectly. (I also know that Dirty Dancing and Scarface should not be remade. I know the new movies will both suck.)

3. Dante's Inferno. I read this book during my first year Engilsh Literature class in university and the circles of hell scared. me. to. death. (Limbo, Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Anger, Heresy, Violence, Fraud, Treachery...) I sometimes ask myself "What circle of hell did I enter today?" if I do something wrong. I found Dante's Inferno to be a really interesting topic of discussion when I was in school.

4. I know how to talk my way out of a ticket. "Are you sure it was me speeding?" "I'm late to pick up my kids and I'm freaking out!" "I'm SO sorry... I'll never do it again!' "I wasn't *technically* texting and driving, because it was a red light. Oh... that's a rule too? My bad!" (Yes, I'm Cher from Clueless.)

5. I'm knowledgeable about Greece, and the history of Greece. Being of Greek descent and having spent almost all of my childhood summers in Greece, I know a thing or two about one of the most beautiful countries on earth. And I'm not talking about where the best beaches are, what the hottest night club in Athens is, or where you can find the most delicious souvlaki. Although I know all that, too.

Five things I know nothing about:

1. Fiscal responsibility. I see the 'bills' in the mail, and I leave them for the elves to take care of. Or, you know, my husband. I don't know how to save money for myself, and I don't like to look at price tags. I round down, rather than up. If something is $99, in my head it's like, just a bit over 50 dollars.

2. Related, I know nothing about math and didn't take a class having to do with numbers after grade 10. I barely passed my second year stats course in university, and I only took it because it was required. My nose gets itchy and my eyes start to sting (for real) every time there is math in front of me. I'd rather plug my ears and say "I can't hear you!" rather than have an adult conversation about money, mortage, interest rates, balance, and the importance of saving.

3. I know nothing about what it is like to not worry. I have been a worrier my entire life, and it's only gotten worst since I've become a mother. I often wonder what it feels like to not think 'worst-case' scenario about everything in life. And I'm not really a pessimist; I'm more of a neurotic-devastation-ist.

4. I know nothing about football, except it looks really fun in the movies. I'm Canadian, so that's my excuse. I know a thing or two about hockey and soccer, so there's that.

5. I know nothing about space exploration and how we've managed to put people in space, and have them come back a) alive and b) not completey freaked out that they left Earth's atmosphere. "Oh, look, there's the Earth!" (That's where I'd have a heart attack.) I have also seen "space food" and um, no thank you.

Five things I believe:

1. I believe if you really want something to happen in your life, you can make it happen. I'm a firm believer in never giving up on your dreams, desires, and aspirations. Sure, luck plays a part, but talent and believing in yourself can make amazing things happen. Even if you have to be annoying to get what you want. Every job I've been offered has been a result of me going after it with fierce determination.

2. I believe that living near the ocean is like free therapy. The sound of the waves, and being able to just sit on the beach breathing in the ocean air makes me content and happy. Vacations are very necessary.

3. I believe that no one is meant to live in minus 30 degrees celsius weather. Freezing is an awful feeling. Having to wear layers of clothes and scraping ice off the car every morning for months on end is just wrong. I believe winter is the most unpleasant season.

4. I believe that there is nothing as amazing, incredible, and frightening as being a mother. Every emotion is magnified, times a hundred. There is no love like the love you have for you children, and there is no fear as great as the fear you will forever be prisoner of once you become a mother.

5. I believe the only time I will stop worrying will be when I am dead.

I absolutely loved writing this blog post. It wasn't easy, and it got me thinking, quite a bit. What about you? What don't I know about you? What do you believe? What are you knowledgeabout about? I'd love to hear your thoughts, too!

Blissed to the max

2011-10-18T01:00:00.003-04:00

I have so many things to think about every time I come home from a blogging conference. The things I am thinking about are never about what I wore, how my hair was, or what purchases I brought back with me. Heck, in New York City during BlogHer 2010 I never even once went shopping.

That should tell you something, right there. For a girl who talks about shopping as much as I do, clearly there are other things that make me happy, make me feel fulfilled and purposeful, excited and determined. There is something (not including my children, of course) that leaves me feeling full of BLISS, and inspired.

(I know, Tanis, but it's true!)

BlissDom Canada.

Man, do I ever feel motivated to become a better blogger and writer every time my BlissDom Canada weekend is over. I'm still on a conference high a few days later.

Now, as someone who has been blogging for (almost) five years, I'm not really looking for ways to drastically improve my blog, since I've already been here a while. However, there are always lessons to take from the sessions I attend. Even the ones that talk about "Taking Your Craft To The Next Level", right, Angella? Being reminded how important grammar is, learning how to properly pitch a story to a magazine, nodding in agreement when we're reminded that personal blog posts are the most touching, and laughing through a panel moderated by the amazing Julie Cole, with Cocktail Deeva, Gail Vaz Oxlade and Patty Sullivan on the panel, talking (and never swearing, goodness no) about branding are some of the things I'll remember, but that's not even the best part.

The best part is the connections and reunions with the friends I've already made, have met before, or are just meeting for the first time. It's the moments that happen between sessions, after the parties, and late into the night. It's the ritual I share with someone at every conference, it's the wind blowing up a skirt as we talk (and talk, and talk) outside in the chilly night, it's the how-many-Oreo's-can-I-fit-in-my-mouth-in-30-seconds that I found myself trying to do in a hotel room with lots of other girls, feeling 14 again, that make BlissDom Canada so much fun.

Sure, it's also about learning and networking, and meeting brands that want to work with bloggers, (if that's what you want to do) but most importantly, for me, is the sense of belonging to the community I am proud to be a part of. Honestly. How many incredibly talented, smart, funny, gorgeous women did I just get to spend a few days with? A heck of a lot, that's how many.

I went out for dinner with bloggers I consider to be inspiring, and that was one of my favourite parts of the conference this year. Sure, I left before getting the chance to meet Jordan Knight (that's right, Jordan from NKOTB joined the annual costume party, that's how cool BlissDom Canada is!) but *I* had dinner with Catherine, Bon, Terra, Angella, Elan and Aidan. So there's that.

Last year I overused the word "awesome". This year, I'm overusing "love".

I loved the launch party at CBC headquarters. That was the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

I loved spending more time with Ali, even if we didn't make it to Yorkville (I'll be back!) and I loved how quickly the train ride to Toronto was, thanks to great conversations with Kelli, Candace, Krista and Maria. I loved seeing Stephanie again, and all the Mom Central Canada ladies, and I loved hanging out with Caitlin again at the Mabel Bliss party. I also loved seeing Alison again and catching up, even though it's never enough time .

I loved sneaking off with Casey to get some new pictures taken (she took the picture I have at the top of this post!) because well, she's amazing, sweet, and super talented. I couldn't not smile, you know?

I loved hugging each and every one of you, and I loved re-connecting with the YMC crew on Thursday night.

I guess it's safe to say that I loved BlissDom Canada 2011. It was all that and more. Like, poutine-beavertail-maple-cookies-covered in maple syrup good, yo!

See you all next year... I can't wait for more memories to be made.

What to bring to a blogging conference

2011-10-10T11:53:00.004-04:00

With BlissDom Canada just days away, it's time to start thinking about what you need to bring to this totally awesome, totally Canadian blogging and social media conference.

What I've learned from blogging conferences (having attended BlogHer twice already, and BlissDom Canada last year) is that no matter what you wear, you will most likely have a blast. If - and this is a big if - you're wearing the right attitude.

The most important accessory, truly, is your personality - and attitude. It's also important to step out of your comfort zone and do things that might scare you.

Like going up to that blogger you've always had a crush on and introducing yourself, even though you're usually not that brave. I did this at BlogHer in New York City with Miss Britt at the Nikon party, and we hit it off right away. I believe my first words to her were: "Oh my GOD! You're Miss Britt!" (And this was after we'd shared a few drinks together.) Nothing embarrassing, right?

Blogging conferences are also about sometimes doing things alone. I've arrived at parties solo, leaving with friends. I've walked around on my own, exploring a new city, like I did in San Diego. And I hung out well past my bedtime with other bloggers in my lulu lemons, ordering pizza at 2 a.m. to the hotel lobby.

Sometimes, conferences can be overwhelming. And stressful. It's hard finding the time to connect with everyone you had intentions of hanging out with. You might spend all your time with the same two or three people, or you might float around from group to group - whatever makes you happy, go for it.

The best piece of advice I can give? Be excited, but don't have high expectations. That way, you won't be let down.

The truth is this - it doesn't matter what you wear or what you weigh, or how bad your roots are. If you're not smiling, if you're not welcoming, if you're not friendly? You probably won't have a great experience to go home and write about.

Also know why you're going. These conferences are a great place to meet up with old and new friends, and have a great time, but they're also a great place to learn something new. Attend the sessions that you think are interesting. Ask questions. Network! And don't be scared to hand out your business cards. That's why you got them, right?

Just remember - smile! And don't be nervous. We all attend these conferences for the same reasons.

The importance of play

2011-10-07T15:46:00.020-04:00

One of the things I love the most about being a mom is playing with my children.

Too often I'm busy rushing to finish the dishes, folding and putting the laundry away, and washing the floors while my children are asking for me to come play with them. While it's great to see independence in my children—to see them playing quietly alone, trying to finish a puzzle, or playing loudly together, building forts out of the couch pillows like brothers do—it's even more fun when I stop the work I'm doing and join in on the fun.

The laughter and giggles and tickles? So worth a sink full of dirty dishes. (That I'll always return to after the children are alseep because I'm OCD like that!)

Sometimes, we need to be reminded about the importance of play. And all the things that make play time so much fun.

Things like...

Getting our clothes wet.

Playing in the sand for hours on end.

Swimming on a hot summer day.

And even enjoying the outdoors on a cold, cold afternoon.

Digging for fossils and treausure.

Eating ice cream.

And a spoonful of Nutella.

Getting lost in a favourite book.

Exploring new cities.

And crashing, because you've had too much fun.

My favourite part of the day is when I'm involved in some sort of play with my children, whether it's reading them a book, giving them a bath, pushing them on the swings at the park, cheering louder than any other mom at my son's soccer game, or swimming with them.

Play time is so important for children, and to them? Seeing you have fun is what always brings out the biggest smiles. This is what they'll remember. These are the moments to cherish.

This weekend, we're celebrating Thanksgiving, and I'm thankful for so much—especially my family, especially my children. I will give thanks by spending some serious quality time with my boys and enjoying the great outdoors. At the same time, we'll be eating... a lot. Including some Kinder Surprises becausae those always make us smile. And chocolate is a very important part of play time, you know!

Disclosure: I’m part of the Kinder® Mom program and I receive compensation as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

My scary experience

2011-10-05T09:00:00.002-04:00

Last year, I felt a lump in my right breast. Being the worrier that I am, I couldn't put it out of my mind, and kept feeling it over and over again to make sure I wasn't just imagining what I was feeling. It wouldn't go away though, and it was more pronounced when I was lying down. It was definitely something to worry about.

Even though I hate going to the doctor for fear of being diagnosed with some terrible disease, I braved it, and went to get the lump checked out. Right away, the doctor felt it, and she told me I probably shouldn't worry, but I was booked for a breast ultrasound and mammogram to be on the safe side.

The very next day, I went for my first mammogram and breast ultrasound. And it was a very scary experience, a very scary day that had me reflecting on a lot of things. My mom was with me, and I had to take at Ativan to calm down my fears. Everyone at the clinic was friendly, and kind, and I remember the room being full of women of all ages. We were all there for the same reason.

October is breast cancer awareness month. Over 23,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone. 23,000. That is a staggering number, isn't it? I know a lot of women who have battled this disease—some are now survivors, some are not, but they all fought the bravest battle of their life.

Thankfully new drugs are being approved and new treatments for breast cancer are being discovered to help cure those affected with the disease. We have the means to get mammograms every year, and we are aware of how important breast self exams are.

If you ever feel unsure about what you're feeling on your body, just go get it checked out. It's the most important thing you'll ever do for yourself—and for your family.

Annoyances: Part Two

2011-10-03T00:00:00.002-04:00

Eight months ago, I wrote a post about the things that totally annoy me. Of course, I couldn't list everything that annoyed me in one blog post, so I thought it would be fitting to do a part two. Because you know what? Every day, something annoys me!

Like today, for instance. I had to go to WalMart to pick up a new hook for the back of my bathroom door. I thought I'd be five minutes, max, since I had only one thing to buy. An hour later, I was on my way home with a serious case of road rage because of my experience in WalMart.

The store was crowded beyond belief and since I had only one item to pay for, I went to the express lane. The express lane, I repeat. I was in line behind 48 other people who had (I'm almost positive) passed the 12 items or less rule and had no right to be in that lane. I had one item to pay for. I realize I didn't have to stay and wait in line for a hook, but I'm hard-headed, and I stayed. The express lane? Should never have a line that long and shouldn't take one hour to get through. Ever. ANNOYING!

Other things that annoy me:

News anchors who wear jean jackets on the evening news. Call me old fashioned, but that's just a huge NO in my book. The evening news anchor should not look like Debbie Gibson circa 1988 in 2011, okay?

Bloggers, hi! It's a new blog POST, not a new blog. Example: "My new blog is about things that annoy me." No. Your new blog POST is about things that annoy you. Unless of course you have started a new blog dedicated only to things that annoy you, in which case... carry on and share the link with me!

I've said it before (at least a hundred times) but I'm going to say it again: please learn the difference between you're and your. Your friends will thank you. You're welcome.

Finding a grammar error in a blog post after I publish it, or finding an error days later. Completely irritating!

Desperate Housewives. I'm glad this is the last season, and yes, I'm still watching, even though I'm bored with the show.

The fact that we're still talking about breast vs. bottle. Really?

Christmas commercials in October. I'm the most festive person there is when it comes to the holidays, but really, you guys? It's not even Halloween yet, and you're stressing. me. out!

Never ending piles of laundry. Never ending piles of laundry. Never ending... sob!

Not pumping an exact amount when I'm getting gas. I can't handle it if I have to pay $75.02. It has to be an even $75.00, or I'll go up to $76.00.

Stepping on LEGO. Or marbles.

Finding pieces of Play-Doh attached to my clothes when I'm already at work.

Having to explain to my parents that my car was perfectly clean on my drive to their house, really, but in the 15 minutes it took to get there, the children managed to rip up every piece of paper they could find and sprinkle Bear Paws and Goldfish cracker crumbs all over the car, while spilling juice all over themselves and their car seats.

The fact that I watched Paranormal Activity. You have no idea how badly this movie messes with my mind very late at night. Between that movie and The Grudge, I sleep with one eye open. And a lot of lights on.

The price of items in Canadian J.Crew stores. Not fair, not right. I'm tempted never to shop there again... but don't know if I'm that strong.

Parents who bring young children to movies that are clearly NOT for children. (What are they thinking?)

People who stand too close to me in elevators.

Drive-thru orders that are not done right! I really didn't want to find a pickle in my burger when I asked for no pickle in my burger.

Socks that get lost in the dryer. Where do they go?

People who spit. Just... don't.

Political parties that call my house at 9 p.m. to try to get my vote. Guess what? That's not the right way to go about getting my support. Waking up my child is not cool.

Dogs running loose in the park towards my children, making them cry.

Crazy wasps that want to attack me!

Crazy Loukia running in circles at her son's school while a wasp chases her in front of all the other calm parents. (Not my proudest moment.)

Negative people.

I'm sure my list could go on and on, but I'll stop for now, otherwise I won't have anything to say in my Annoyances: Part Three post.

Now it's your turn! Get it off your chest, and tell me... what annoys you?

Chances are, I'll feel the same way you do!

The bully stops here - no more bullying!

2011-09-30T12:49:00.005-04:00

Now that I have a child in school full-time, there are many things to think about, new issues to worry about, and lunches to pack every day. So far, grade one has been nothing but wonderful for my son, and we're both so happy.

Watching my son playing with his friends before and after school warms my heart, and makes me want to burst out crying, because these children? They're innocent. They are full of laughter and they are kind to each other. I don't know if it's just my son's school, but I see so much respect between children on the play ground, no matter the difference in age between children. These children? Their lives don't include bullies.

Yet.

When I was in middle school, I was the victim of bullying. After competing in a relay race in track and field, a girl with the initials M.H beat me up. She pushed me into a locker, hit me, and kicked me, repeatedly telling me I wasn't a fast enough runner. I don't know how I managed to walk out of school and get on the bus without bursting into tears, but as soon as I got home, I started crying. I told my mom everything.

The next day we were in the Principal's office, along with a police officer and the girl who beat me up. After she received a serious warning and a detention, she was very nice to me for the remainder of the school year, going out of her way, almost, to be friendly to me. That wasn't the first or last time I was the victim of bullying, but it is the one incident that I remember the most.

Recently, an 11 year old disabled boy took his own life because he was being bullied. Imagine how awful and depressed a child must feel to take such drastic measures? It's awful. And sadly, he's not the first child to end his life because of bullying. It's happened way too many times for us to be quiet, and I think we have to stand up for our children louder than ever before. Guess what? It's not okay for bullies to get away with their behaviour anymore.

A local radio station, Majic 100 , is doing something wonderful to help spread awareness about the serious issue of bullying.

After seeing so many stories about bullying, the Majic 100 Morning show
with Stu, Angie and Trish decided to do something more than just talk about the issue on-air. The morning show has decided to go around to different schools in Ottawa and surrounding areas to present their anti-bullying message to students, in order to raise awareness of this serious issue.

Stu was a victim of bullying in school, too, so it's also a cause close to his heart. He tweeted that if he had to visit every school in Ottawa to speak up against bullying he would. The #NoMoreBullies hash tag was created and the idea has received amazing support from the community.

Stu told me that they have been inundated with requests from schools, and the emails they've received from parents have made them cry because the stories have been so hard to read. Stu says that "kids being cruel to other kids has to stop." And I completely agree.

As a mother of two children, and as someone who was bullied in school, I know how awful it feels to be a victim of bullying. I'm here to protect my children every way I can, and I am actively involved with my children's lives at school. I'm going to do everything I can so my boys know that it is never okay to be mean to another child, that everyone deserves to be treated fairly, and that no one should be made fun of for any reason.

I am teaching my children to be strong and confident, and letting them know every day that we are here for them, and that there is nothing they can't tell us. Keep communicating with your children, and make sure they know you're always there to listen to them. As parents, it's our job to teachour children right from wrong. As parents, it's also our job to make sure the schools our children attend is a safe place for them to be.

Up in smoke

2011-09-28T13:30:00.006-04:00

Every since I had my first cigarette in high school, I knew of the risks associated with smoking. I knew, from warnings on the cigarette packages, and from being told time and time again from my parents and from school that smoking was bad for you, and I knew of all the terrible diseases associated with smoking.

Of course, as most teenagers do, I just shrugged my shoulders and kept on smoking. Smoking is an addiction that is hard to quit, as I learned when I tried to quick unsuccessfully time and time again before finally quitting for good. (Even with over 50 comments of support, I still failed at first.)

Now, as a 'non-smoker', I do indulge in the occassional cigarette, when I'm out at special events, or having wine with friends, and I do it in a manner that I know won't cause me to pick up the habit again for good. I know many will argue that's bad, but for me, it's very controlled and it's really not often at all.

Years ago, warning labels on cigarette packs got larger in Canada, covering 50% of the pack, with warnings talking about everything from the harms smoking will do to your unborn child, to impotence, and of course, how smoking causes lung cancer, heart disease, and more. I'm pretty sure there is not a single person on earth (who doesn't live under a rock) that doesn't know how bad smoking is for them, or how hard it is to quit once you start.

Along with the written warnings on cigarette packs were pictures showing the effects of smoking, from damaged teeth to a pair of diseased lungs. Just Google warning labels on cigaratte packs and you'll see what I'm talking about. They were pretty... graphic.

Right beside the lighters, near the cash register where the transaction for the purchase of cigarettes were made, cute covers for cigarette packs were also sold. These "covers" for the packs were slipped on top of the warnings so smokers didn't have to constantly be reminded of how their addiction might be making them sick.

As a ex-smoker, I can tell you this: the warnings did not make me quit smoking. The warnings didn't teach me anything I didn't already know. The warnings did, however, make me upset, in the sense that a product that my goverment was selling legally was telling me every way they could how BAD IT WAS TO SMOKE. (But they still happily took my money.)

Listen, if it so bad, why doesn't the government, who cares for us so much, and oh yeah, makes millions - billions - of dollar a year from tobacco products - ban them from legal consumpton? Oh yeah. Because they make millions - billions - of dollars from cigarettes a year.

I know how bad smoking is. I never want my children to smoke, ever. I wish we lived in a tobacco-free world. I wish people didn't die from smoking. I lost a very close family member from lung cancer, and I saw first-hand the damaging effects smoking had on an otherwise healthy individual. I was there when this family member passed away. I KNOW. I don't need disturbing and graphic pictures on a pack of cigaretts in my face to tell me that smoking is bad, to tell me "SEE? See what will happen to you if you smoke? Oh but thanks for your money!"

Starting in June 2012, tobacco companies have to switch the graphic warning labels currently on packs to even more graphic warning labels on cigarette packs. The images are so disturbing to me that I won't show you the pictures. Rather, you can see for yourself here.

Some of the new labels will show Canadian anti-tobacco advocate Barb Tarbox on her deathbed. She died of lung cancer in 2003. The picture is very upsetting.

I also had to go through the death of another close family member who died from liver disease, caused from drinking too much alcohol. Alcohol is another addiction that is hard to quit, however, there are a lot of (free) resources out there to help those who suffer from alcoholism. Every year, 37,000 people die from smoking related illnesses in Canada. And over 40,000 Canadian deaths a year are a result of some sort of substance abuse, the majority of which is from alcohol.

Why are there no graphic images of liver disease on vodka bottles?

Why don't bottles of Malibu Rum show pictures of the scene of a car accident that killed an innocent family, because someone drunk got behind the wheel?

Where are those warning labels?

I don't like the double standard. I don't like the new warning labels on cigarette packs, and I'm speaking as as a non-smoker, who will not have to buy these disgusting packs. I think it would have been much more effective to have a 1-800-QUIT-NOW number on 75% of the pack, rather than a picture of a dying woman.

What's your opinion on this? Have the warning labels gone too far? Why are there no labels on bottles of alcohol? Why is one form of substance abuse okay in society, but not the other?

Ottawa Fashion Week

2011-09-26T12:22:00.007-04:00

Last year, I attended Ottawa Fashion Week (OFW) and blogged about it for Ottawa At Home Magazine. Even if you're not totally into fashion, it's a fun an exciting event to be at. The best part? Proceeds from OFW go to CHEO. Fashion while supporting a great cause? I'll drink to that!

Last year, sitting front-row centre with a perfect view of the catwalk, I imagined I was in New York City during their infamous fashion week. OFW took place at the National Gallery of Canada which offered the perfect backdrop to the stylish event. Over 18 designers brought their new creations to life in a room full of people who were there for the fashionable (and charitable) event.

I attended one night only, and had a great time mingling, drinking wine, and taking in the fashion show. The music was lively and upbeat, the designers were all very talented, and the night was as an overall success.

Ottawa Fashion Week is back and is bigger than ever. This year, OFW takes place at the new Congress Centre and features designers from not only Canada, but from around the world.

I'm happy to report that a portion from each ticket sold will be donated to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario - CHEO is very near and dear to my heart, so this makes me even more excited to attend again this year.

And guess what else? I'm giving away two tickets to Ottawa Fashion Week! Just leave me a comment below telling me what your favourite fall piece is and you'll be entered to win tickets for this weekend!

I will be picking a winner at midnight, randomly.

Good Luck, and I hope to see you there!

I also wanted to let you know about a jewellery giveaway I'm currently running on my shopping blog at Yummy Mummy Club - a $125 gift certificate for some fine custom-made silver jewellery. What are you waiting for? Go enter!

I want to thank you...

2011-09-23T15:00:00.004-04:00

"Well, you win some, you lose some." That right there is one of my favourite quotes from one of my favourite movies ever, Dazed and Confused. Yeah, I know that line hasn't only been used in that movie, but I like to bring up Dazed and Confused whenever I can.

Over this last week I've asked my friends to vote for me to help me advance to top three for co-host of Daytime Ottawa. (Even though the online vote was only worth a small percentage of who got chosen to advance.)

Despite the fact that I didn't make top three, I am still very happy. I am also so completely blown away by how wonderful and supportive my friends have been. Being in the top ten was the most amazing experience, and this week was SO. MUCH. FUN! And a little stressful, to be honest.

It was fun to be in two local papers talking about making it to the top then, and it was fun to talk to so many people about this contest.

I have so many people to thank I don't even know where to begin. All my online peeps, my favourite bloggers, my best friends, heck, my entire Greek community and an old university professor, too! This contest has been humbling, and eye opening. It even had me crying tears of happiness at times from messages I received from a few special people. I am just waiting for the chance to return the favour to everyone. Hit me up, anytime, for real.

This contest was a perfect example of how people in our blogging community come together to help out fellow bloggers and friends if asked, no matter how big or how small the favour. It was also a reminder of how important friends are.

Working in television and in the media world has always been a passion of mine, and having spent a few years working in the industry, I know that I'd like to be there again in some capaticy. I don't ever give up on the things I want. I'm a pretty determined girl! (Annoyingly so, some would say!)

This contest has also taught me something else really important - that I never, ever want to get into politics. My goodness, no.

Thanks again, everyone! From the awesome people at Rogers, to all my friends and supporters, this was such an exciting opportunity and learning experience.

Love you!

One last push: please vote for me!

2011-09-20T14:52:00.004-04:00

As you know, (oh, God, I'm sure you know...) I'm a finalist to be the new co-host of Daytime Ottawa.

In order to advance, I need online votes from people to make it to the top three!

I have been so blessed with so many awesome friends helping me out by voting and posting messages on facebook and twitter.

I only have two more days to ask my friends to vote for me. It's unlikely that my numbers will go up drastically in that short time, but still - why give up when it's been so much fun so far? It's been so incredible receiving support from the people I love in my online and real life community.

It's been even more amazing to see my true friends step up for me. What an experience it has been! Derick, you're one lucky guy - this city is buzzing from the excitement to see who will get to sit next to you every day!

Today, I even received an email from my old Communications professor from Carleton University telling me he voted for me and that he is supporting me. That, my friends, is something I'll always remember. This week has been awesome. Your support is so appreciated.

If you can spare a second, please go vote for me, Loukia Zigoumis!

Thank , my friends and dear readers. Much love to you! xoxo

Vote Loulou for Co-Host of Daytime Ottawa! Please?

2011-09-17T00:00:00.001-04:00

As you may already know, (I've tweeted this a hundred times already!) I applied to be the new co-host of Daytime Ottawa, and I made it to the top ten! I was so excited when I received the great news that I was a finalist. It's always been a dream of mine to co-host a show like Daytime, and now, the opportunity is right in front of me.

I had the chance to co-host the show a couple of weeks ago, and you can watch a few minutes of me chatting it up with the co-host here, and co-hosting the fashion segment here. (Totally up my alley, wouldn't you say?)

Me and co-host, Derick Fage. The entire crew of Daytime was so much fun to work with!

Yes, I took a picture of myself on TV... what? Is that weird?

I absolutely loved co-hosting the show, and the one hour went by so fast. My co-host Derick is a total professional, and we had awesome chemistry from the very beginning. (I met him before, when I was on the show as a guest talking about the world of blogging!)

The best job I ever had was when I worked in television and radio. I love everything about working in a busy newsroom: interviewing people, getting the line-up ready for the show, writing the content, and watching everything come together. Also, the people who work in telelvision - both in front of the camera and behind the scenes - are usually pretty darn cool. I am fortunate to live in such a great city where we're able to showcase so many talented people, too. That's what makes Daytime such a great show.

NOW, my friends, I need your help. I would love to advance to the top three for co-host of Daytime Ottawa.

Everyone can vote here for their favourite co-host! Please vote!

The three finalists with the most votes will advance to the next round, where they'll get a chance to co-host again. I would love to do this again! (and again... and again...)

Please vote for me! Please tell all your friends to vote for me! Spread the word, if you're so inclined, on your blogs, on Twitter and on Facebook, too.

You can vote every day this coming week, too. So vote often! Please?

Please #VoteForLoulou for co-host of @DaytimeOttawa!

I am thankful to have made the top ten - to me, that's a great accomplishment already, and I'm proud of myself. To say I'm in the TOP THREE would be incredible. Please help make that possible for me? I'd love love love your support and votes!

I also want to say a huge THANK YOU to all my wonderful friends (you know who you are!)who have supported me all along and have given me great words of encouragement through emails, tweets, and facebook messages. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH! You rock my world. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

xoxo,
Loulou

Old School Blogging

2011-09-15T09:00:00.002-04:00

A couple of nights ago, I was thinking about how much I miss Old School Blogging.

You know? From a few years ago, when things were just... blogs, and nothing more? Just our stories, written from our hearts, here for the world, for our little community, to read? When we had more time, it seems, to sit down and read posts from start to finish, when we were able to comment without problems because we weren't doing it from our iPhones, and when we didn't "favourite" every post we wanted to eventually get around to reading... (because we don't always get back to those posts, do we?)

I started blogging in 2007, which to some of you is still not even that Old School, but to me, it's well... old enough. My first born son, now in grade one, was only 18 months old when I started this little blog. This little blog has been very good to me, for so many reasons, mainly because of the friendships I've formed, and the opportunties I've experienced. I'm very thankful.

I've written before about the top ten things blogging has taught me but let me add to that. Blogging forms real friendships and relationships, and bloggers are united despite the distance in miles. The support can be incredible. Meeting your favourite bloggers in real life is awesome, and reading blog posts from talented writers helps you become a better writer, and a better thinker. A few years ago, the blogosphere was more quiet, and keeping up with my favourite blogs wasn't a problem. Lately, it's getting harder to keep up, and to comment as frequently as I used to, and I'd like to change that back to the way it was.

Mom 101 and Girls Gone Child were the first two blogs I read all those years ago. Liz and Rebecca continue to inspire me to write, to be a better blogger, if you will. And if I ever need a reminder about why I blog, I just visit their sites. Can I just add that the talent in the blogosphere is so incredible?

A couple of nights ago on Twitter I said: "I miss Old School Blogging, circa 2009-2010". Many awesome bloggers chimed in, and we started talking about blogging and how it was, and how things have changed. (Thanks, Angie, Bon, Ali, Isaa, Casey, Leslie, and Neil for the discussion!) And thanks for chiming in too, Liz. We talked, in 140 characters, about how Twitter has changed the landscape of blogging, but not in a bad way. In fact, for most of us, Twitter has opened up new doors, and has given us amazing opportunities - like new jobs.

Bon mentioned how for most of us, comments on blog posts were the first way to measure our "success" online. Recently, (like many of you) I've noticed a huge increase in numbers reading my posts, but a decrease in comments.

Ali wrote a while back about trying to comment on 20 blogs a day. It's not that hard, you know? All it'll take is for us to get off Twitter for like... 20 minutes. Can you do it?

Also, a friendly reminder: people prefer comments on their actual posts, not on Twitter. It's awesome when posts get re-tweeted, but save the actual comment for the blog post! Comments make the world go round. Comments and a nice glass of white wine.

Although things have changed in the last couple of years, I'm still as passionate about blogging today as I was back then.

What about you? Have you noticed a change in the blogosphere?

My interview with Roller Girl at TIFF

2011-09-13T10:40:00.021-04:00

I've always been fascinated with Hollywood. After university, I applied to intern at various news stations like CNN, NBC, and CBS in Washington, D.C. I was accepted to all, and chose CBS. Looking back, I'd have chosen CNN, but as a 20-something recent graduate, picking the location with the shortest subway ride to and from the news station made a lot of sense to me.

After that, I interned at Entertainment Tonight in Hollywood, California, which was a huge dream of mine. I was completely in awe from the second I walked onto the Paramount Studios lot, blown away by the constant action, and the television and movie sets. I didn't meet anyone famous unless you count Mary Hart, but I did drive up to the Hollywood sign and imagined one day owning a house there. (I'm now aware that not all dreams come true.) I loved Rodeo Drive as much as I thought I would, and I sat in Mary Hart's chair a few times. I left the internship early, to take a job I was offered in radio back home.

I am still fascinated with everything having to do with the entertainment industry. Especially good movies and the way everything comes together - from the writing, to the directing, to the editing and costume design.

A few days ago, I was in Toronto (second weekend in a row - I wish I could teleport myself there every weekend!) for TIFF - the Toronto International Film Festival. I was invited by Erica Ehm (my awesome "boss" over at Yummy Mummy Club) and Eden Spodeck, to attend the film screening of The Flying Machine, a very cool, very artistic 3-D live action/animation film starring Heather Graham. Yup, Roller Girl herself. (She's also starred in Drugstore Cowboy, Twin Peaks, Swingers, Boogie Nights, Austin Powers, and The Hangover.)

How was I going to turn down an opportunity to be in Toronto during TIFF, for a film screening, complete with photo op and interview with Heather Graham? I simply had to go!

(I have to say that Heather is stunning in person, and for 41 years old? She looks especially good. She's super tall, and of course, super lean and thin.)

I got in my car at 6 a.m. and drove straight to Toronto, picking up my best friend along the way. I made the trip in record time and we made our way to the theatre, where all the action was. It was so cool just being there, and I think at one point I was even standing beside Robert Pattinson, who was on his bike, wearing red Converse sneakers and a gray sweater. By the time we realized it might have been him, he was gone, just like... Edward Cullen. Ahem. No sparkles, though.

At the theatre, we met up with a few other bloggers and sat down to watch the movie in a VIP section (it was taped off, and it was in the same row that Heather sat in - a few seats away from me. Note to self: Heather did not eat the popcorn.)

The Director and Producer of the film spoke a bit before the movie started, along with Heather. I wasn't sure that actors actually sat down and watched their movie with everyone else, but they do, and well... neat! Also, awkward!

I thought The Flying Machine was a very artistic, family-friendly film, My full review will be posted on Yummy Mummy Club!

After the movie ended, I had to go the washroom (as if I was going to walk out DURING the movie, with Heather sitting like, next to me, practically!) and as I walked across the hall, who did I see up close and personal, giving a press conference to a room full of people? JAMES FRANCO. Yup. I took a quick picture with shaking hands, and had to go outside for some fresh air. Problem was, it was HOT outside! Anyway, I digress...

I didn't have as cool an experience as other bloggers I know, who actually interviewed and were in the same room as GEORGE CLOONEY, Ryan Gosling, and Roberg De Niro, but it was an incredible experience nonetheless!

The Flying Machine was a really interesting movie. An adventure, if you will, combining 3-D stop-motion animation, live action, and the music of Chopin. Acadamy Award winner Hugh Welchman, famed pianist Lang Lang, and Heather Graham did a great job making and starring in this movie.

After the movie, we attended a private press conference in the Hyatt - just a handful of other bloggers and myself - and Heather Graham. We asked her questions, had a few laughs, and took some pictures. She was very nice and sweet. I asked her what movie she liked being in the most, hoping she'd say License to Drive. However, she liked them all the same.

After the interview, my best friend and I went to Yorkville to have lunch on a patio so we could people watch. I don't know if we saw anyone else famous, because everyone always looks like someone famous in Yorkville. It was such a great afternoon!

Next year, I am going to TIFF for the entire festival! The 10 hour drive to and from Toronto in one day was well worth it for me!

Reflections

2011-09-11T00:00:00.001-04:00

10 years ago today the world changed for us all. Every since that fateful day, I think of things as "before" and "after". The horror of 9/11 has had a ripple effect on everybody, even on children who weren't born yet.

My boys have asked questions about the framed poster of the twin towers in our basement and we've had to explain to them the best we can why those towers are no longer part of New York City's landscape.

They're reminded of that day when we travel, like the time they had their liquid-filled rubber balls taken from them because the balls were considered a 'threat'. Try explaining that to a two year old.

They are reminded of that day when they have to take off their shoes as they walk through security at the airport. Each time, my youngest child cries, not fully grasping why he has to do this. Each time, it breaks my heart. This is nothing to complain about, really, as I put our safety above all else; it's just a tiny example of how everyone's lives have been changed, somewhat, because of that day.

10 years ago I got up and went to work, just like everybody else. I didn't have any babies to kiss good-bye back then, though. But so many others did. They couldn't imagine those good-bye kisses were going to be their last to their beloved children. Those children didn't think it was the final good-bye, either. But it was, all because of that horrific day. I think about the innocent lives lost all the time.

I think about the fear we all felt as we watched the twin towers collapse. I think about the people who died, the people who lost their lives trying to save others, and the victims who were left without a husband, a wife, a mother, a father, a child, a sister, a brother, and a friend that day, and I think about how they have had to adapt to a 'new' normal, a new life they never asked for. I will always keep them in my thoughts and prayers, along with so many others.

I think we absolutely have to reflect back on this day, and say a prayer or two, even if we're not really the praying type, for the lives lost, for the lives changed, and for everyone in general.

Also in my thoughts and prayers tonight is fellow blogger Anna who lost her child in the flash floods in D.C. a few days ago. I have been thinking about her since I heard about her terrible loss. Her pain and suffering is something no mother should ever have to experience. As a mother, my heart is bleeding for her, and for her family. She is my prayers tonight.

Life is precious, and fragile. And we should be thankful, and cherish every single second.

Champagne Celebrations

2011-09-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

If I had to describe this past weekend in one word? Perfection. I was invited to stay at the Marriott Bloor Yorkville with my family for my birthday. A weekend in one of my favourite cities with my family? I couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate turning 35 years old. In fact, this was a birthday to remember!

Not only were we going to be staying in my favourite location in Toronto - right in the middle of Yorkville - but we were going to be staying in the two-floor Presidential Suite. The pictures I saw of the suite on the website took my breath away, and I knew my children would be in heaven, too. My little boys, already such seasoned travellers, love staying in nice hotels. I don't blame them. The best part about going on trips with my children is building new memories and spending lots of quality time together, time that is filled with laughter and non-stop giggles.

When we arrived at the hotel in our GM Traverse (thanks again, Adria - this vehicle was an amazing ride and my children loved the DVD player!) we were greeted by the friendly staff at the front desk. "We've been expecting you, Loukia! Welcome to the Marriott Bloor Yorkville!" I was impressed with the service and friendly faces from the moment I walked into the lobby.

My boys ran ahead of us into the suite, and instantly noticed the beautiful balloon arrangement on the main floor, I was so surprised to find fresh flowers, a cake and champagne for us to enjoy, too. Let the celebrations begin!

I have never received such thoughtful service before. I could hardly keep up with my boys as we ran upstairs to check out the rest of the suite. The room upstairs was beyond spacious, with huge windows overlooking Yorkville, and a bathroom (the second bathroom in the suite) as big as the entire second floor of my house. The bed? It was just as comfortable as it looks.

There were little treats upstairs for the children, too - toys, colouring books, bubbles, and special (healthy!) snacks that the boys enjoyed throughout our stay.

This was just one side of the bathroom. Bathtime in here was a whole lot of fun for my little dudes.

I loved wearing the comfy hotel bath robe and slippers. And a huge bonus? The Bath and Body Works products used by the Marriott! Was that the icing on the cake, or what? Almost...

My parents were also invited to the Marriott Bloor Yorkville. Their room connected to our suite, which was perfect for the kids. My sister and her family were also given the chance to enjoy this beautiful hotel. It was an excellent way to celebrate my birthday, and the perfect way to spend the last official weekend of summer. We were all so very thankful for this opportunity!

The best part about travelling with your parents is the fact that you have built-in babysitters. That night, hubs and I went out with my sister and her husband and 15 of my best friends to Il Posto for dinner.

You wouldn't believe how surprised I was when I was told that my friends at Mom Central Canada had ordered two bottles of the best champagne there was to help us celebrate. (I can't thank you girls enough!) I think I said "wow!" a hundred times that night. Also? The champagne really was the best I've ever had!

One of my best friends was celebrating her birthday the next day so our evening ended with lots of cupcakes - it was a double celebration!

Of course, no weekend in Yorkville is complete without getting a good workout in - a workout that involves lots of walking into the fabulous stores, trying on clothes, and carrying bags filled with awesome new purchases! 3 bags of damage from Anthropologie and my fall wardrobe is now complete.

On top of everything we were treated to at the Marriott Bloor Yorkville, we all received complimentary breakfast every day. It was great to see my one year old niece enjoying bacon as much as the rest of us!

We went to Centre Island with our family and friends on Sunday, even though it looked like it was going to rain. I love taking the kids to Centre Island because they love the boat ride and watching the planes take off and land from the airport. Of course, the rides at Centre Island are totally fun, too!

We spent the last day at the Royal Ontario Museum before heading back home to Ottawa. It's quite the museum, and a must-see if you're visiting Toronto.

I can't tell you how thankful I am for this weekend, or how blessed I feel to have had this experience. It was the most amazing weekend ever. As my boys both said to me at two different times on the day we were leaving: "Mommy, every time we come to Toronto, we have to stay at this hotel! I love it!" I completely share their enthusiasm, and am happily looking forward to our next visit. (Is it too soon to start planning?)

THANK YOU, Marriott Bloor Yorkville, THANK YOU Mom Central Canada, and thank you to my family and friends. 35 is not so bad, after all!

35 things

2011-09-03T00:00:00.002-04:00

It's my BIRTHDAY! I'm 25 35 years old. I'm not getting any younger, am I?

The truth is, I'm okay with 29. I mean, 30. FINE, 35.

Seriously, there is nothing scary about getting older.

I still feel as youthful today as I did when I was 20. Except, well, I'm more tired. And sometimes, I ache. And I've recently caught myself squinting at my computer screen. Anyway, let's not focus on those things! Age is just a number, after all, and not nearly as important a number as the one on the inside of your jeans! (Ha.)

There are some things I miss about being younger, like not having to worry about real life issues. Real life issues like bills and cooking and worrying about your children when they are sick. I've got to say, life was far easier when I was younger, when life's biggest worry was whether or not I'd score a good parking spot as I arrived ~~always late~~ to campus. Or the stress about what I was going to wear every morning. Wait - I still worry about that! I guess some things never change, huh?

It's been a year full of good memories, a year filled with the little things that matter the most, a year of growth, and a year of happiness. I loved sharing my exciting news with everyone about being a top ten finalist for the co-host position on Daytime Ottawa, (I'm hoping you vote for me!) and taking a trip down memory lane thinking about where I'm from.

I had an amazing vacation with the family in Maine this summer, enjoyed a girls weekend getaway, and survived the END OF THE WORLD. Of course, there were moments of complete panic, when I wasn't worrying about Doomsday.

I attending my second BlogHer, and shared my experiences about motherhood with my readers. I was on the Marilyn Denis show, and had a health scare that involved my first mammogram. I got a few things off my chest, too - and blogged about all the things that annoy me. God, that felt good.

Looking back, it was a very busy, wonderful year - and I am thankful for so much. This year, I'll be spending my birthday in Toronto with my family and friends. I've been invited to stay in a two-floor suite at the Marriott Yorkville! Yorkville, you say? Thankfully, it is my birthay, so any shopping I do will be guilt-free, right?

I thought I'd also celebrate my birthday by sharing with you 35 things I absolutely love:

My children.

My incredibly supportive family.
Being Canadian.
Ativan on plane rides.
Pizza and Diet Pepsi.
Best friends.
Good Health.
Movies and movie popcorn.
Krispy Kreme donuts.
Days when calories don't count.
My children's laughter.
Sleeping next to my children.
Shopping, and finding amazing shoes on sale.
Swimming in the ocean, and listening to the sound of the waves.
Blogging, and the incredible connections and friends I've made because of it.
Twitter.
Awesome TV shows, like Curb Your Enthusism.
Books I don't want to put down.
A good blow-dry.
White wine.
Traveling to places I love (Miami!) with the people I love (My family!)
Driving in my new VW, with the windows down, listening to awesome music.
Good news stories.
Happy surprises.
Chocolate.
Watching my son on the soccer field.
Listening to my children's conversations.
Playing with my boys.
Slipping into that new LBD.
Hours in the book store.
Starbucks.
Hugs that linger and never ending laughter.
Kisses from my boys.
Achieving my goals.
Incredible opportunties.

What are some things YOU love and are thankful for?

The controversial t-shirt

2011-09-01T10:41:00.008-04:00

Years ago, before I became a mom, I bought a shirt from Abercrombie and Fitch—a graphic long sleeved t-shirt with this saying on it: Dependently Wealthy.

I thought it was a perfect shirt for me, since I always relied on my parents to pay off my credit card debt. I shopped freely, knowing that even though I'd get one heck of a lecture from my father, I'd do it all again the next month. I was very convincing, I guess, when I solemnly looked at my parents and said: "I promise I won't shop not even once this month!" No, this is not behaviour I am proud of, but since handing over my Gold AMEX to my parents before I walked down the aisle, I have learned a few things.

I still love to shop, a lot.
Having a credit card WITH a limit has helped, a lot.
I don't like shopping with cash, ever.
I'd rather put cotton balls in my ears then hear about how I spend too much money, again.
The message on the shirt is still funny, at least to me.

Now, let's talk about inappropriate messages on shirts. "Who has time for homework when the new Justin Bieber album is out?" is the description for the new shirt that JC Penney was selling, until the social media uproar caused them to pull it from store shelves.

Liz wrote an excellent blog post about this t-shirt, and about sexism in ads in general.

"We live in a world right now that makes it harder and harder for girls to want to succeed. Snooki is getting more air time than the First Lady, and there’s a pervasive culture of sexuality that children are getting sucked into far before they should."

And I absolutely agree with her. Also, Snooki has published a book, and I. have. not. We live in a backwards world, I tell ya.

Every day I walk by teenage girls wearing jean shorts so short Daisy Dukes look conservative. Not trendy short, like Marinka's daughter wears, but shorts so short they're just... little pieces of jean fabric sewn together. I know the message that's portrayed when these girls wear these shorts is not the message they necessarily want to be giving, but maybe the parents should have been paying more attention when they were shopping for their child. And when a t-shirt comes along that says: "I'm Too Pretty To Do Homework, So My Brother Has To Do It For Me" I get an awful feeling inside, because... really? Did anyone actually buy this? You're too pretty for homework? And your brother has to do it for you? Why is okay for boys to do homework? Oh, because girls aren't as smart? Is that story we're going with? What if the boys are OHMYGODCUTE like Bieber cute? Then are they also exempt from homework? Come on. REALLY? There are a million reasons why this shirt is offensive.

It was ridiculous when Abercrombie was selling padded bikini tops for young girls, and it is ridiculous that JC Penney was selling this t-shirt. A little more effort and thinking beforehand would have prevented this company from having to deal with the backlash of angry consumers today. If I was the mother of girls, I would never buy this shirt. I'm glad the shirt is no longer for sale.

A few points I want to make:

1. It is okay to be pretty AND smart. Not one OR the other. Just look at Cher in Clueless. She was pretty and smart! And it's okay to like make-up and the colour pink and to spend hours in the book store reading. You can be whatever you want to be. You are not defined by your looks or by your IQ score. Stand up for what you believe in.

2. Sexism exists for boys, too. I don't approve of how men are portrayed in advertising, for the most part. My husband cooks. My husband cleans. My husband reads books to our children before bedtime. My children are taught something new every day because my husband teaches them things, important things, about the world, our planet, history, nature. My husband cleans up the vomit every time one of our children get sick. My husband doesn't drink beer, ever. And he doesn't watch sports. I hate how my boys are already portrayed before they even have a chance to prove that they are not the "steroptypical" male. They're smart little boys, so smart is scares me, and I have no doubt they'll be able to cook and clean and go grocery shopping just as well anybody else, just as well as their father did. Why is it okay to make fun of the guys?

3. Don't support what you don't like. It's okay if you want to boycott JC Penney because of the ridiculously sexist t-shirt. However, I'd much sooner boycott a store like WalMart because they sell guns and bullets, and I am hard-core against guns. I made a 10 minute documentary on gun control when I was in college, and I learned some awful facts about guns, and who they kill. Hint: usually an innocent victim, usually in the home. We should stand up for what we believe in, and for what we are against. Keeping quiet never achieves anything.

What are your thougths on this t-shirt? Are we doing enough to try to stop stereotypical sexist ads that still exist? What more can we do?

Just wanted to add that I am featured on a fabulous blog today - Parenting by Dummies! I met this awesome blogger this year at the Moms Fashion File party at BlogHer in San Diego, and I LOVED her! (And have loved her blog for a long time, too!) Check out her What's In Your Closet feature with me!

My very exciting news!

2011-08-29T00:00:00.005-04:00

This weekend was busy and fun and filled with exciting news. We were blessed with hot and sunny weather on Saturday (while our thoughts were with those battling the hurricane on the East Coast) so we were able to spend the day swimming and enjoying a nice BBQ. That's what summer is all about, right? I was also invited to take part in the Volkswagen freedriving tour. I've been a Volkswagen driver since the day I got my license when I was 16 years old, and my family has only ever owned German made vehicles. We brought the kids along with us, and they had a blast. You can read all about my experience on my Yummy Mummy Club blog!
Now for the really exciting news! I recently applied to be the new co-host of a lifestyle talk show here in Ottawa called Daytime (on Rogers). It's a wonderful show that's all about the great city I live in. It covers entertainment stories, community events, cooking, and so much more. I was on the show a few months ago as a guest, speaking about being a mom blogger.

On Sunday I found out that I am a finalist for the position of co-host for Daytime Ottawa.

I'm in the TOP TEN, baby!

I'll be co-hosting the show on Wednesday, September 7th! If you're not able to watch me live, don't worry - I'll send out the link so you can watch! After the ten finalists have all co-hosted, viewers and friends will get to vote online for their top three favourite co-hosts from September 17th to 22nd. The top three will then be showcased between September 26th and 28th. Of course, I'll be reminding you every two minutes on Twitter so you don't forget. You're welcome.

I am so excited and so happy to have made it this far. When I got the good news, there was a lot of 'squee-ing' going on in my house. And I sort of forgot all about the housework I was doing. I did manage to cook dinner, though, with shaking hands.

Years ago, I was a reporter for a show on Rogers called Ottawa Living - I was the "girl around town", and I would report on the events taking place in the city every week, from different locations around town. I spent a few years working as a reporter for a news talk radio station, and I also worked as a news writer for another TV station. With degrees in Communications and Broadcast Journalism, you could say that I am definitely passionate about the news and media world.

I interned in the fast-paced newsroom at CBS TV in Washington, D.C. and sat in Mary Hart's chair at Entertainment Tonight in Hollywood, California. Both those internships taught me a lot, and confirmed to me what I already knew - working in TV, both behind the scenes and in front of the camera, was a great place for me to be.

Even if I don't advance to the top three (but believe me, my fingers are crossed!) I'm thrilled to have been given this opportunity. I hope you all have a chance to watch when I co-host, and I hope I'll have your support so I can advance to the next round!

In other news, I was one of three fashion bloggers chosen to be featured in the fall shopping issue of Ottawa Magazine.

I'm so excited, and wanted to say thank you for your kind words on Twitter, Facebook, and through email. I appreciate it a lot!

Reasons to celebrate

2011-08-22T13:20:00.012-04:00

As a mom, I find reasons to celebrate every single day. I'm a very enthusiastic person, to say the least. I started doing a happy dance complete with jazz hands the first time my oldest son wrote his name by himself. I'm the loudest cheerleader at my children's swimming lessons, or when I'm watching my son play soccer. "YOU KICKED THE BALL! IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION! GOOOOOO CHRISTOS!" Yeah, you could say I'm overly enthusiastic and always in the mood to celebrate my children's little—and big—victories.

I am always proud of my children. Well, except when they say bad words in public, really loudly, or throw epic temper-tantrums in the grocery store. At times like those, I don't feel much like celebrating. At times like those, I want to to disappear into a black hole.

But I digress... We're talking about celebrating, right?

Here's a reason to celebrate: I've been selected to work with Mom Central Canada as part of the KINDER Mom ambassador program. Me and chocolate working together? That is a beautiful thing. Me and chocolate my children absolutely love working together? Even more of a beautiful thing! Kinder Surprise has recently been re-lauched—same great chocolate taste, but this time, bigger, better, and more playful toys than before—as if the chocolate wasn't enough of a treat, right?

Kinder Chocolate has been around since 1968, but my first memory of Kinder Chocolate was when I was six years old, during a summer vacation in Greece. It was a treat I always looked forward to every time we'd go to Europe. Whenever I indulge in Kinder Chocolate today, I'm reminded of summers in Greece, and of my youth. I dare say it has kept me young... at heart! And in spirit, of course.

I love treating my children to Kinder Surprise, and not only during Christmas and Easter, but whenever I feel the need to celebrate.

Like when my son graduated from kindergarten, or when he was the "Student of the Month" several times throughout the year.

Or when my three year old took off his floaties and swam underwater in the deep end a few months ago, to be like his older brother.

Or the time my youngest son drew his very first stick person.

Or when I see my boys playing happily together, or with their cousins.

Of course the biggest celebrations are celebrated through hugs and kisses, but a chocolate treat always brings on huge smiles, too!

This summer, I celebrated extra time off work with my family. Whether on our vacation to Maine, sunny days spent by the pool, or afternoons at the museums, I enjoyed every day. I celebrated my new nephew being born, BBQ's and evenings out with friends, and a blogging conference in San Diego.

How have you been celebrating this summer? What are you looking forward to celebrating in the coming months?

Disclosure: I’m part of the Kinder® Mom program and I receive compensation as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.

I carried a watermelon, and then I cried.

2011-08-16T09:50:00.016-04:00

You know when you hear news so shocking you're left reeling in disbelief? And you're so shocked, you don't know what to do? I've experienced this type of shock many times before. So many times, I can't even tell you. In real life situations, and in stories I read about about in the news. Of course, nothing sucks as bad as when it happens in real life, and you're left gasping for air, as if the wind has been knocked out of you.

I was shocked when I found out that Ben Johnson lost his gold medal in the 1988 Calgary Olympics because he was taking steroids. I was listening to the radio in my parents bedroom when I heard the news. For some reason, the story really affected me. It was hard enough for Canada to even get a gold medal in the summer Olympics, to have it taken away from us seemed so wrong.

Of course, there is also shock on a much larger scale, like BIG shock, shock you don't really get over, shock that affects the entire world, like the Challenger disaster, Columbine, 9/11, the 2004 tsunami, and, on a lesser scale, but still shock-worthy, nonetheless, the death of Princess Diana and JFK, and finding out Casey Anthony was found not guilty. Oh, and OJ, too. I could go on forever, but I'll stop there.

There is also shock in the entertainment world. Like finding out the truth about Milli Vanilli. And discovering that Nick and Jessica were breaking up. My best friend called me long distance to break the news to me, and at first, I didn't believe her. Sadly, it was true, and no, I'm still not 'over' Nick and Jessica breaking up. I like to think that one day, one day, they'll get back together again? Maybe?

The most recent shocking news I heard was that 'they' were going to remake Dirty Dancing. Dirty Dancing coming back to the big screen? I can't even... this news just... it's so wrong. It's just so wrong.

Kenny Ortega, who choreographed the original film, will direct the remake. This doesn't sit well with me, even though he played a huge role in the original film. I mean, he also played a role in High School Musical, okay? And while it's a cute movie with teenagers dancing and singing, it's no Dirty Dancing. And I fear that the new Dirty Dancing will be more High School Musical than it should be. It's just a really, really bad idea to try to make Dirty Dancing again. Are you listening, Kenny?

Who will play Baby? Jennifer Grey was an unknown actress in 1987, a fresh face on the big screen. She was Baby.

That was the summer of 1963 - when everybody called me Baby, and it didn't occur to me to mind. That was before President Kennedy was shot, before the Beatles came, when I couldn't wait to join the Peace Corps, and I thought I'd never find a guy as great as my dad. That was the summer we went to Kellerman's.

And please don't get me started on who could possibly play the role of Johnny Castle. NO ONE can replace Patrick Swayze... NO ONE.

Nobody puts Baby in a corner. *swoon*

No one can dance like Patrick Swayze, yet still be such a... man. You know? He was sexy. He was cute. He could dance.

Dirty Dancing is one of my all-time favourite movies. Some movies should never be remade—like Stand By Me, Goodfellas, The Breakfast Club, Gone With The Wind and Ferris Beuller's Day Off. These movies fall in a category called 'untouchable'. Don't mess with a good thing. There is no need to see these movies made again, when they were so perfect the first time.

Rumors are now swirling about who will play Baby and Johnny in the new film.

Here are the names being considered to play the role of Baby:

Lea Michele.
Miley Cyrus.
Demi Lovato.
Selena Gomez.
Taylor Swift.
Ashley Tisdale.

No. No. No. No. No and um... No. Since when was Dirty Dancing a musical? There is no need to cast a teeny-bopper singer! Baby doesn't sing! She dances! And she's not 15!

And Johnny?

Justin Timberlake.
Justin Bieber.
Zac Efron.
Ryan Gosling.
James Franco.

Sob. Really, Justin Bieber? Oh yes... he just screams Johnny Castle to me!

And... Zac Efron? NO! He's a pretty boy who is just... not right for this movie. James Franco could have been a 'hmmm...' but then he hosted the Oscars and his image was tarnished forever.

Ryan Gosling is a great actor, and Canadian, too, like the Biebs, but still... can he replace Patrick Swayze? I don't know. I don't think so...

Justin Timberlake? No. There is no Johnny Castle in Mr. I'm-bringing-sexy-back.

I read that George Clooney was in talks to play the role of Baby's dad, Dr. Houseman. (He can totally channel his old E.R. days, and play a doctor again!) This makes me feel old, but anyway. I'd be down with that. Clooney in any movie is never a bad thing. Alec Baldwin and Jon Hamm are also names that have been mentioned for the role of Dr. Houseman. Okay, and okay.
I heard that Blake Lively might play the role of Penny. She's tall and lean and gorgeous, like the original Penny, so I don't see this as an awkward fit at all.

But still, you guys. A remake of Dirty Dancing is NOT OKAY. It is absurd! And wrong! And will fail terribly at the box office!

Are you with me?

What a difference a year makes...

2011-08-09T11:08:00.002-04:00

The hardest part about going to BlogHer for me was not about what I was going to pack. Or how many shoes I was going to bring. The hardest part for me was getting on a plane without my children, praying I get home safely and in one piece.

So when my husband received this text message from me as I boarded my last flight home, I had a minor panic attack. Was it some sort of premonition?

Stupid auto-correct.

Anyway, the good news is, I'm back from San Diego. And yes, I packed too many shoes. But! I did manage to wear at least three different outfits a day, making good use out of all the clothes I brought with me.

My experience this year was different from last year. I had expectations this year, whereas last year, since it was my first time at BlogHer, I didn't really know what to expect. Maybe it was a little more fun last year, but still, this year was worth it and I have no regrets. I think the fact that I was so far from my children made it that much harder for me to just relax and fully enjoy myself, you know?

The best part about blogging conferences is meeting up with old and new friends. It's the connections that make travelling all those miles well worth it. It's the late night discussions by the pool, or eating pizza in the lobby at 2 a.m. with other awesome bloggers. It's hanging out outside and having a heart-to-heart with a friend. It's telling strangers you're in San Diego for a blogging conference, yes, a blogging conference, um, YES, a blogging conference, that's right, with 3,000 other women, and a few men.

Blogging is a very personal thing, and we are all connected in some way, so to meet the people you read about daily is sort of like meeting your best friend and a celebrity at the same time. (Jim actually explained it to me like that, and I totally agree!) Blogging conferences are a reunion of sorts. The depressing part is when they end. It's sort of like going to that high school dance on Friday night, having a great time, and having fuzzy memories come Monday morning. It's already getting excited for the next time, even though it's an entire year away.

Of course, BlogHer is also about the fabulous parties on the roof-top patios of very cool hotels. It was kind of hectic going from party to party, but I am not complaining! Sitting in the VIP section with Mario Lopez, Danielle, Julie and Caitlin at a Softcups party was pretty hilarious. A period party with A.C. Slater? I mean, how can you not have fun?

Other highlights of San Diego included...

Getting the chance to sit down and talk to Britt for over an hour, sipping strawberry daiquiris in the sun. She's even more awesome to talk to in person. Equally awesome to talk to is Tanis.

Hanging out with Summer at the Clever Girls party, and walking all the way back to the hotel in our poor, tired feet. But laughing all the way...

Travelling to San Diego with the awesome girls from Mom Central Canada made my flight to San Diego go by super fast (well, that and the two Ativan I took) and attending the Canadian Embassy party—that was one of the best parties of the entire weekend. So many fabulous people all in one place!

I am so glad I spent more time with Jill this year. Last year we barely had time to say hello, but this year we finally had a chance to catch up at the Moms Fashion File party on Saturday night.

Attending Sparklecorn for the first time was very... sparkly. And fun.

And Stephanie and I hung out with Suzy from Hot Comes To Die Saturday afternoon. Did you know Suzy has been on both Seinfeld and Curb Your Enthusiasm? She's so cool.

Of course, I went to the annual Cheese-Burg-Her party. I had to see it to believe, but yes, it was really a party with... cheeseburgers. And fries. And drinks and music. It was very cool. Now I regret not eating a cheeseburger! But I did have some fries. Mmm... fries....

Danielle and I spent a lot of time hanging out in pedicabs that almost killed us, and at all the fabulous parties drinking really yummy drinks.

Late night gatherings in the hotel were also really fun...

And getting to hang out with and rock out with the gorgeous Amy...

I also enjoyed spending some time alone. It's always important, I think, to get off and do your own thing for a while. BlogHer can be very overwhelming!

I loved meeting Kat for the first time, and hanging out with these funny ladies a few hours after I arrived in San Diego.

I bumped into Amy and Ann walking from the convention centre to the hotel, and of course we had to take a picture, because Ann is one of my favourite bloggers ever.

I can't believe I didn't take any pictures with my roommates Lotus and Leslie! What's up with that? Anyway. BlogHer'11 was great. The Voices of the Year ceremony was incredible, and Bon (whom I love) made me cry, and Britt made me smile. Everyone did a fantastic job, as usual.

See you all in 2012... back in New York City, which is only a very SHORT plane ride from home!

Six

2011-08-01T08:00:00.002-04:00

August 1st, 2005.

Before, and after.

Nothing changes a person like the day they become a mom for the first time. My life completely shifted the day my son was born. I always knew I wanted to be a mother, I just didn't know how powerful the love would be. I was in a definite zombie-like state for at least the first six weeks, scared even to sleep, for fear of something happening to my baby.

I look at my child, still very much my baby, and am amazed at the things he knows and understands. While he loves to do normal six year old things like build with LEGO, make sand castles on the beach, read books, play with his army people and master Angry Birds better than his parents, he's different. He's wise, wise beyond his years.

"In World War II, moms and babies and people who were not bad died, too, right mom? How did Hitler die? Why was there a war?"

(I usually tell him to ask his father when the questions are too hard for me to answer.)

"Mom, what exactly did Einstein invent?"

(Dear God, you never told me I'd have to answer these types of questions!)

"Mom, do pregnant people have to go to jail, too?"
"Yes, sweetie," I replied.
"Then what happens to their baby after?"

(This is where parenting gets hard...)

As the days and years go by, not only does my love grow for my children, but I realize more and more that parenting is not easy. It's rewarding, sure, but it's also very challenging. It's a 24 hours a day job, but a job I am very thankful for, every single day.

My first-born son is compassionate and loving, doting on his baby cousins, taking care of his little brother.

This morning, the two of them were fighting.

"Why is Chirstos only nice to me when we're at camp, mama?" my little Dimitry asked.

This made me smile, because I know how much his brother looks after him when I'm not around. I see him, a pro in the swimming pool, cheer on his little brother as he swims across to the deep end, without floaties on, proud smile on his face.

He knows the Elements, and asks me which one my favourite is.

"Um... diamond?" I respond.

"MOM! Diamond is not an element!" he'll laugh at me.

My big boy is now six - SIX! years old. I still can't believe it myself. How does time go by so quickly, and why isn't there a pause button?

Yes, my son is six. Starting grade one in a month. And I am just... in awe of him. And of course, worried. But I know there is nothing we can't handle together.

Happy Birthay to my beautiful little boy... I love you (and your brother!) more than you'll ever know!

Stress, hello.

2011-07-31T00:09:00.003-04:00

It's just after midnight and here I sit, working, er, typing away, on my computer. But since typing on my computer, or rather, laptop, technically is working, here I sit, working, trying to tie up a dozen or so loose ends before I leave for BlogHer in a few days.

I am not writing a post about BlogHer, since I've already done that, and since you've all seriously read enough BlogHer posts these last few weeks, it's almost making you NOT want to go, because can't we all shut-up about BlogHer already? In related news, I almost had a heart attack reading Marinka's latest post, in which she made me think she was quitting blogging with her cleverly titled post, Good-bye. Could be that I'm just really tired, too.

I seriously haven't been talking about BlogHer too much, I swear. The fact that I am willingly leaving my husband and children for three nights and four days is not keeping me up at night or causing me to have a severe case of anxiety, making my road rage a little more ragier (if that's not a word, it totally should be) than usual. No, not at all.

Okay, I'm lying. As my mother would say, WHAT KIND OF MOTHER LEAVES HER CHILDREN FOR THREE DAYS? Oh my goodness. ONLY THE WORST KIND OF MOTHER! ME! Sob.

Okay, okay, I know I'm not a bad mom, but still. The worry! The guilt! The panic attacks! I'm hardly able to focus on anything more than: "What will I pack? What will I wear? How many dresses do I need? Is one suitcase enough? It almost wasn't, last year... do I need more shoes? Will the boys have enough clean underwear? Will they forget about me? Remember to pack their snow globes in the suitcase, not carry-on, in case I have to deal with stupid people at customs. Dear God, don't let me forget my Ativan. Will I have to talk to Mario Lopez about my period? Ew."

I guess I'm a little stressed about leaving for so long. Yes, I consider 3 nights away from my children a long time to be away. I know they're not babies and I know they'll be in excellent hands with their father, but still... I'm a mom. And I worry. And damn it, it's more than a one hour plane ride, so maybe I should drink something um, with alcohol in it, to wash down my Ativan?

Right. Time to go to bed now, where I will stay awake for another hour or so trying to forget that to-do list of mine that is somehow not shrinking.

I think I need a vacation. Somewhere warm, with a lot of nice people, by the ocean. Like maybe California?

A weekend to celebrate!

2011-07-25T23:38:00.021-04:00

Last Friday after work, I rushed home to see my boys and spend some time with them before going out for drinks with some friends, one of whom is an award-winning parenting author. Ahem. Whenever I go out with these girls, we always have a great time.

The night was fabulous, and the laughs were plentiful. It was the beginning of a very good weekend...

I fell asleep at 2 a.m., and then the phone rang. At exactly 5:30 a.m. Nothing will shake you out a hangover faster than your mom phoning at an ungodly hour to say:

"It's mom! Your sister is in the hospital, her water broke! Get the kids and let's go let's go let's go!"

After hanging up the phone, I rolled over and fell back asleep. Chances were very good that no baby would be making an appearance before 9 a.m. Certainly not before I had my coffee!

When I woke up I went into nesting mode on behalf of my sister, and spent the morning cleaning my house from top to bottom, while at the same time playing with my children and planning all the things we had to do that day to get ready for my son's 6th birthday party the next day. That's right. Hosting a big birthday party the same weekend my sister was having her baby and also the same weekend my in-laws were leaving for Greece for a few months, one week before I leave for San Diego? I guess you could say things were a little hectic!

I was brave enough to venture to Michael's, Bulk Barn, and the party store with my children to pick up the things we needed for the next day's festivities, all the while feeling incredibly anxious for my sister and mentally checking things off my to-do list while trying to not buy 2 giant Dora balloons for my three year old, who had a melt down in the balloon aisle. Of course, I bought the balloons, which he then proceeded to let go of so he could watch them float away into the sky. Just like that, fifteen dollars escaped his little hands and floated up, up up...

I dropped the kids off at home (my husband was on stand-by!) and I went to spend some time with sister. She wasn't having her baby, so my mom and I went for lunch. As I left and headed for home, I received another frantic phone call:

"Hurry back! She's having the baby!"

I rushed home to pick up my family and made it to the hospital just in time.

Finally, a baby was born! I spent the next hour holding my new nephew and inhaling the most delicious baby smell, thinking about how it was when I was in the same room giving birth to my children, and thinking about how quickly time passes. Baby fever? Almost, I'd say!

The next day, after spending more time with the newest member of our family, I was ready to celebrate my son's 6th birthday party with extended family members and cousins. (His 'friends' party is taking place next weekend!)

We were doing a pirate/treasure hunt theme this year, complete with pool party and big backyard BBQ. The best way to celebrate a summer birthday, right?

I loved seeing his expression when he saw the cake I ordered for him - this was one amazing treasure chest birthday cake! The best part? It tasted so good!

My son officially turns 6 years old next Monday. I have a blog post ready to go about that, of course. My boys keep me laughing all day long, and now with another baby in our family to love, my heart is pretty full of happiness. The fact that my sister had her baby a week early just for me (thanks, baby J!) makes me extra happy, too. (I still can't believe it's her SECOND baby in a year!) I'm glad I don't have to stress about missing the baby's birth when I'm San Diego for BlogHer next week. Now, I can officially (almost) relax by the pool, drink in hand...

BlogHer: What to expect!

2011-07-15T14:17:00.017-04:00

With BlogHer only two! weeks! away! I thought it would be an excellent time to offer some advice about how to prepare for this conference. I wrote a Top 5 Reasons To Be Stressed About BlogHer post before I arrived to BlogHer last year, because I was a bit overwhelmed. (Keeping track of the party invitations alone was a full-time job!)

My fears disappeared as soon as I popped the Ativan on the airplane. I travelled with some awesome bloggers, so that helped calm down my mommy guilt, since it was my first time flying without my boys. This year, the 'party plane' as it's been dubbed, will be filled with awesome Canadian bloggers including the girls from Mom Central Canada!

In summary, BlogHer last year was an absolutely amazing experience, which is why I'm going again.

Without further ado, here is my BlogHer advice to you, if you're going for the first time:

If you want to meet someone, don't be shy. Run up to that famous blogger you love, professing your love for them and shoving your business card in their face. Don't forget to hug them really tight, too! The worst thing that'll happen? They'll stare at you like you're crazy and walk away, leaving you sobbing all by yourself, as you put your business card back in your wallet and head to the bar to drown your sorrows in a row of shots.

When you're at the Expo Hall, make sure to run to each booth and greedily say: "Is this free? Is this free? Is this free? Oh, look! A pen! Yay!" That's what networking is all about, and it's a sure-fire way to make great connections and to secure future business opportunities with the amazing companies who helped sponsor BlogHer.

If you're sharing a room with someone you really like, but have not met before, make sure to take hours in the bathroom getting dolled up, making them wait for their turn to shower and get ready. Leave your clothes scattered about, and keep the room as messy as possible, so you're reminded of the state of affairs back home, keeping your "I miss my kids!" tears at bay.

Take full advantage of the free cocktails at all the parties you'll be attending. Don't stop drinking! Nothing is more glamorous than when you're so drunk you can't even walk straight anymore. People will definitely remember you!
..............................

In all seriousness, just have fun, and be yourself. Yes, this is the number one piece of advice you'll hear from everyone else, too, but it's true.

Also, remember this: you're a BLOGGING conference. That means all 3,000 of us? We are there for the same reason. We love to blog. And it doesn't matter if you blog about fashion, entertainment, health, life, or motherhood—we share a common interest. And we're all a little geeky.

Introduce yourself to new people. Sure, you're hopefully going to see (and hang out with) the bloggers you've been wanting to meet, but you should also talk to the girl in front of you in line for drinks, or the people staying in the hotel room next to you. You never know who you'll end up clicking with and spending time with!

Exchange numbers with bloggers and friends you want to hook up with before hand, so you'll be able to reach them once you're in San Diego.

Don't be stressed about what to wear. Your best accessory is your smile and personality. Sure, I loved getting dressed up for the parties last year, and BlogHer is a great excuse to get that new dress or pair of shoes you've had your eyes on, but you don't have to shop for a new wardrobe before BlogHer. Wear what you love, and the fun will follow!

I pack all my 'party' clothes and shoes in my carry-on, so that way, if my suitcase gets lost? I won't have to worry about the clothes situation once I arrive to the hotel. The fewer things I have to worry about, the better! Oh, and bring a big suitcase. Last year there was a lot of swag!

Bring lots of business cards—you will be exchanging cards with people you meet all the time.
(I'll be giving away business cards with Tiny Prints this week, too, so stay tuned!)

Don't worry about what parties you're invited or not invited to. The most fun can happen when you least expect it. I had a blast having drinks with Jessica, Pauline, Adam, Emily, Muskrat and Sam at the rooftop bar of Hotel Gansevoort. And going on a quest for a slice of pizza with Jessica at 1 a.m. was quite memorable, too!

Plenty of fun random get-togethers will take place in the hotel lobby or bar. I plan on spending a lot of time outside by the pool talking to friends this year. And working on my tan!

I'm not going to give you a list of all the things you should bring (or not bring) with you, but comfortable shoes are a total bonus. And don't forget your cell phone charger, a laptop, or your ipad. And money and a camera, of course!

I met so many fabulous people last year, too many to name here, and I can't wait to see new friends (like my roommate Lotus! Yay!) and see old friends again in two weeks.

I hope you have a great time in San Diego. Even if you spend some time solo, you'll be fine. You will learn a lot and you will have a fantastic experience if you make an attempt to do a few things that scare you. Smile. And have fun!

Oh, and if you need new amazing business cards? I have a $50 Tiny Prints giveaway just for YOU! Tiny Prints was nice enough to make my cards for me last year and again this year, and now they're giving YOU some business cards, too! Just leave me a comment below telling me how excited you are about going to BlogHer11 and I will pick a winner on Friday, July 22nd!

See you in San Diego...

P.S. I'd like to thank my friends at Mabel's Labels for partially sponsoring my trip to Blogher!

P.P.S. In case you didn't know, I'm a new blogger over at Yummy Mummy Club! My blog is all about what I love most in this world, after my children... that's right: shopping! And right now, I'm giving away a pretty awesome cosmetics gift from Luxe Box! Check it out!

Just for you...

2011-07-13T16:26:00.009-04:00

A few of months ago, I received an awesome package from HP Canada—a very cool apron from Anthropologie, a gift certificate for the spa (hello, one-hour massage...), a few household items, and... the new HP Photosmart eStation All-in-One printer. This is no ordinary printer, yo. It has features that most printers could only dream of having. It is like the Manolo Blahnik of the printer world. Top of the line!

The HP eStation can also keep the kids busy. I know this is true because we put the printer in the children's play room in the basement and they've been occupied for minutes on end! These minutes allow me to empty the dishwasher, and to fold the neglected laundry. Precious time, my friends!

The printer acts like an 'online hub' of sorts, and offers different ways to stay organized and connected. The HP Zeen, a detachable, 7-inch, full-colour wireless companion, allows you to browse and print the web, watch movies, read books and listen to music. It's kind of like an ipad.

HP ePrint lets you print and share pictures, too. I can print off any pictures I want from my iphone, with just the a little click.

HP was nice enough to give me a printer to give away to one of my awesome readers, too! This printer is over $400, you guys—how awesome is that?

Just leave me a comment telling me what you love printing or how this printer will make life easier for you. I love printing off pictures of my children so I can quickly give presents to family members when they go away on long summer vacations.

This giveaway is open to Canadian residents only—to my American friends, feel free to enter if you know someone with a Canadian address!

Bonus entry: Tweet about this giveaway using the hash tag #HPCanada or #HPePrint.

Good Luck! I'll randomly pick a winner on July 20th.

Summer Vacation

2011-07-11T10:19:00.026-04:00

Half an hour into our drive to Ogunquit, Maine, my five year old asked the infamous road trip question: "Are we there yet?"

Yup, travelling with young children—whether by plane or car or train—is no walk in the park. Unless your walk in the park involves children, in which case, you know exactly what I am talking about.

We were prepared for this eight hour road trip, though. Thanks to my good friends at GM Canada, we got to travel in the new Acadia Denali, a huge vehicle with plenty of room for all our belongings. The best part? The built-in DVD player that my children made excellent use of. That, and the ipad.

And frequent stops. And plenty of junk food.

The best part about travelling in a vehicle (versus flying on an airplane) is that there is no such thing as 'over-packing'. I kept sneaking things into the truck, just in case. Like that extra pair of shoes, just in case...

Packing for the kids is challenging, but I've learned from all our past vacations that the more stuff you cram into the suitcase for them, the better it will be. Because kids get... dirty. And they go through at least two outfit changes a day, even if the majority of the day is spent in the ocean or by the pool. Ice cream spills, spaghetti sauce all over crips white shirts, and chocolate melted into little hands rubbed onto shorts means it's best to over-pack for them, too.

I have to say, though, my boys did amazing on this long road trip. They always travel well.

Even though my three year old decided to fight with the customs lady, because he didn't want her to look at him.

"Stop looking at me! Close my window! ARGH! Right now daddy, right now!"

And even though I had to break out the hazmat suit to take my children to the bathroom in some random truck stop off the side of some highway, USA.

"It's okay, little D. You can use the toilet here just as long as you don't touch a single thing and wash your hands for 10 minutes after and try not to inhale, either. OH MY GOD WHAT DID YOU JUST TOUCH? Don't touch ANYTHING! Ready? Go!"

...

"What do you mean you don't have to go to the bathroom anymore?"

I think I'm still recovering from too much Purell inhalation (and the shock of finding out the verdict in the Casey Anthony trial on our drive down) but we all survived.

My boys became experts at playing Fruit Ninja and negotiating who gets the ipad for how long on the trip.

Even though those negotiations include yelling, hitting, and screaming. They've going to make excellent world leaders one day.

I'm thankful my husband drove the entire way, so I could nap when the children were busy watching movies and playing games on the ipad. (What? Isn't that what passengers do on long road trips?)

We had an amazing family vacation, blessed with perfect warm and sunny days.

Our resort was beautiful, with an ocean view and two pools the children made good use of.

We enjoyed the town on our nightly walks, visited the Nubble lighthouse in York, and looked at the boats in Perkins Cove.

We also found the most amazing Mexican restaurant a few blocks from our hotel, with huge open windows overlooking the ocean. I felt like I was in Mexico, only much safer!

We ate plenty of ice cream.

We took trolley rides, shared stories, and laughed a lot.

I watched my five year old become fascinated with taking pictures with my Canon, and I even heard him ask for a better lens. A great hobby to have, no?

Of course, no family vacation is complete without a bit (or a lot, depending on who you ask) of fighting and yelling. Even with that, I wouldn't have changed a thing. Except maybe I would have packed a few more dresses because while I over-packed for the boys, I really under-packed for myself this time.

If you've been to Maine before, you'll know that no visit is complete without several trips to the amazing candy shops that are on every second street corner!

I felt happy and relaxed on this vacation, and very complete. Being with my family, inhaling the ocean air, and allowing myself to eat carbs were all contributing factors to my happiness.

It really was a picture perfect vacation.

With amazing views...

And good times...

And memories to last a lifetime.

The only downside to vacation? All the laundry that you have to do when you return home. As soon as I'm finally finished putting away all the clothes, it'll be time for me to pack again... for San Diego!

Cue anxiety...

On vacation

2011-07-05T06:54:00.001-04:00

5 shirts

4 tank tops

5 dresses

2 pairs of jeans

2 pairs of lulu lemons

4 bras

8 thongs

4 bikinis

2 one-piece J.Crew bathing suits

1 pair of little beach shorts

3 pairs of flip flops

2 pairs of wedge heels

2 purses

1 beach bag

1 'books and toys' bag

2 backpacks

1 lulu lemon bag filled with 'essentials', like Advil, Gravol, flat-iron.

2 very full suitcases

1 DVD player

1 DVD player in vehicle

1 iPad

2 iPhones

A cooler full of food

2 pillows

2 blankets

All this... for a 7.5 hour road trip to beautiful Maine.

All this... for five days!

I didn't overpack, did I?

Graduation Day

2011-06-28T11:44:00.007-04:00

We've come a long, long way together...
Through the hard times and the good,
I have to celebrate you baby...
I have to praise you like I should.
Fatboy Slim

Two years ago, my oldest son started kindergarten. I was really worried. I had a million different fears, but mostly, I was scared of how he would adapt in school since it was his his first time in that environment. I worried if he would go the bathroom if he had to. If he would eat his snack. If his teacher would be nice. If he'd make friends. It was a lot of worry!

We went to meet his teacher a few days before school started, and it did not go well at all. However, as the days and weeks went by, he started loving school. Really loving school, and his teacher, and his classmates. He was thriving, and I was proud. The last day of school was emotional for other reasons, and marked the end of 12 amazing months.

"Say cheese!" I said to my little junior kindergarten graduate, and was given a huge smile and two thumbs up.

The first day of school this year started off a little sad.

But I was hopeful.

My little dude is a thinker, a learner, and a lover of books. He would rather watch The Discovery Channel than go see Cars 2, loves to collect coins and money and studies the Periodic Table of Elements on the ipad. It scares me how much he knows!

The best part of his kindergarten journey has been his incredible teacher, Mrs. P. She was exactly the teacher he needed. Patient, loving, kind, fair, understanding, and caring. Attentive to each child's needs. As her thank you gift, we are giving her an original painting made by my mom of a teacher and children outside the school. I wanted something to show her how much she meant to us.

Today, my five year old is graduating kindergarten. And now? I am filled with anxiety over the fact that he will be started Grade One in the fall.

A full day of school. With recess twice a day!

Will he eat all his lunch?
What if he gets thirsty?
What if he has a hard time getting his snow pants on and off?
Will he have fun with his friends?
What if he's tired?
Will he eat his snacks?

Sigh. Never ending worry!

Today, though, I'm just going to enjoy celebrating the last day of kindergarten with my son.

My little graduate!

Where I'm From

2011-06-24T09:09:00.014-04:00

I am from high top sneakers and push down socks, from Fashion Plates and Cabbage Patch Kids, from Rainbrow Brite, see the shining light, and my favourite Lucky Care Bear.

I am from Nerds and Archie comics, a best friend who lived next door, and She-Ra, Princess of Power. I am from banana clips that never stayed in my thick, unruly hair, neon bandanas, and Scooby Dooby Doo, I love you.

I am from brown carpet on the stairs of my old home that I used to pretend was quicksand so we could play Star Wars, falling into Jabba the Hutt's pit.

I am from a living room with giant bay windows, overlooking the forest, and trees swaying in the wind. I am from never ending summer days and building space ships to take us to the moon.

I am from the days of terry cloth dresses and jelly shoes. I am from the little orange television set in our kitchen, the television set that started my fascination with news one cold day in January, 1986, the day the Challenger exploded right before my eyes, tears streaming down my face.

I am from a home that had no fireplace, so Santa wasn't real to me. But the love was plentiful. I am from Monchichi and My Little Pony, and smelling Strawberry Shortcake's hair. I am from a yellow Sony walkman, Debbie Gibson and Tiffany, outfits from Esprit and Benetton, and penny loafers.

I am from the smell of fresh baked bread, big Greek family dinners, and cracking red eggs at Easter. I am from staying up really late to go to midnight mass on Christmas Eve. I am from strong family traditions.

I am from worry and anxiety attacks.

I am from "Be nice to your sister," and "Loukia, did you get in trouble again?"

I am from Greece and Canada, McDonald's as a treat after Greek School on Saturday mornings, and Pastitso baking in the oven on Sunday nights.

I am from bike rides to the 7-11, family picnics at Mooney's Bay, and Mediterranean summers.

I am from Hilroy notebooks filled with cut-out pictures from Bop magazine, dance recitals, jazz hands, and singing camp songs on bumpy buses. I am from shopping trips with my father to buy the very best camping backpack (it was bright blue) for my first—and only, my God—camping trip, complete with tents. I almost got eaten by a bear, I swear.

I am from rubber band and gimp bracelets, mis-matched earrings, and Bonne Bell shimmer lip gloss in a tube, given to me by my favourite babysitter.

I am from rocks and stamp collections, carving soap on my front porch, and collecting spoons from cities I had visited. I am from watching Annie seven million times, and keeping a diary and writing bad poetry when I was 12.

I am from burning my nose on a car lighter in grade 6, and being made fun of every day for weeks on end. "Hi, Rudolph!" they'd all say. I'm from reading my first 'novel' that my mom bought me, Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, by Judy Bloom, in the basement of 58 Greenboro. I'm from lying in bed next to my mother and holding on to her hair so she wouldn't leave.

I'm from taking care of my baby sister, running with her in my arms, and dropping her when she was just a baby, head first, into the cold concrete on a Toronto sidewalk, and being yelled at all the way to the hospital.

I am from "But daddy, I promise I won't do it again..." and "Yes, I studied. Yes, I swear." I am from Alyssa Milano hair and crushes on Tony Danza and Kirk Cameron.

I am from a big wooden box filled with pictures of my childhood, the smell of moth balls in my grandmother's chest in her apartment in Greece filled with trinkets and old passports, and memories that are so fresh in my mind, they make me smile.

This writing prompt has been going around the blogosphere this week, and it is such a great trip through memory lane. You really should do this, too—I'd love to read about where you're from.

Girlfriends

2011-06-21T00:00:00.004-04:00

"I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve." Stand by Me

I've had the same group of best friends since I was 12. Maybe even youger. We have been friends since before we waxed our eyebrows. We have been friends since the days we wore our hair in a 'poufs', as we called it, and teased our bangs to look like Alyssa Milano. Definitely since crop tops and high-waisted jeans worn with skinny leather belts bought at Guess were in style.

Since before 90210. Probably since the beginning of Who's The Boss.

My best friends are awesome. And we've been through it all together. Bad hairstyles, awful jeans, pleather pants and tops, sequined tube tops and Tretorn running shoes. We have been together since skinny jeans were first in style, perfected with safety pins.

We have spooked ourselves with the Ouija board, watched Girls Just Want to Have Fun more than one million times, and danced all night long.

We have travelled to Venezuela, Florida, California, Toronto, and Greece. We have lived together as college roommates, and interned together in Washington, D.C. We mastered the subway, almost got kidnapped, and had VIP access to the hottest clubs. We went to the same university, joined a sorority, skipped classes and studied (yeah, studied—ha!) in the library together.

We were together when we discovered the INTERNET.

We've shed tears, yelled at each other, kept each other's secrets, and gotten in trouble.

We were in each other's weddings.

We had babies.

Half of us can now commiserate over how tired we are. We don't sleep much anymore.

We have overcome tragedy and have laughed so hard it hurt. We have stories to tell, nights we don't remember, and nights we remember as clearly as if they happened yesterday.

We have seen eachother naked far too many times, and have no shame around one another. Going to the bathroom with the door open and continuing conversations while we're peeing is second nature to us.

Although we no longer all live in the same city (half of us are in Ottawa, the other half, Toronto) we see each other as often as we can.

Every year, we always plan a girls getaway weekend. We do it up Sex and the City style. Except we don't go anywhere as exotic as Abu Dhabi. (There is definitely a Samantha in our group, though!)

This year I was lucky to be invited to the Brookstreet Hotel for the weekend, and of course, I had to bring my best friends with me to experience it all.

I even bought new shoes to celebrate! (They were on sale, and I didn't go over budget! I even returned a dress to justify the Burberry shoe purchase. See how good I am?)

This past weekend, we kissed our kids goodbye, suffered minor anxiety attacks, hit the LCBO for alcohol, stocked up on junk food, and made our way to the hotel for a weekend of fun and relaxation.

Saturday started with breakfast on Elgin Street, our old stomping grounds during our university days, and then we hung out around the pool of the Brookstreet Hotel and girl talked for about three hours. We took pictures...

and had some yummy drinks...

We talked some more. And laughed. A lot. Then we got ready for a night out. A night that would keep us all awake well past midnight. A night that included a fun car ride with a designated driver (thanks, Z!) and lots of wine.

It was a perfect weekend, at a perfect hotel. I think it's really important to try to get away at least once a year with your closest girlfriends to re-connect, to unwind, and to relax. And, of course, to party like it's 1999. With better hair. And, fine, with not as perfect abs, but whatever.

The Brookstreet is a great hotel complete with an amazing spa, gorgeous outdoor saltwater pool overlooking a PGA approved golf course, and five-star dining. I would most certainly go back.

The weekend went by far too quickly, and it was back to reality in suburbia. It was a memorable weekend with fabulous girlfriends, and for a little while, it felt like we were 12 again.

Motherhood is...

2011-06-17T00:00:00.003-04:00

Motherhood is a million different emotions exposed every single day.

Motherhood is letting your toddler use your dress as a Kleenex, and being okay with the fact that you're walking around in public very stained.

Motherhood is reading 10 books at 10:30 p.m. to a three year old who will not fall asleep, no matter what.

Motherhood is saving the last bite for your child.

Motherhood is trading your awesome French Vanilla ice cream (sigh) for the Superkid flavour.

Motherhood is sliding down a metal slide in a too short dress and feeling the burn, just because it makes your child laugh.

Motherhood is sleeping only five hours a night for over five years, and not even caring anymore.

Motherhood is waking up in a panicked state, remembering the school bake sale the next day.

Motherhood, in turn, is baking cupcakes at midnight.

Motherhood is sharing a knowing look with your child, and receiving smiles that melt your heart over and over again.

Motherhood is grinning and bearing it.

Motherhood is exploring your surroundings, and spending hours collecting the perfect sea shells.

Motherhood is going pee with a baby in your arms, and a three year old at your feet, in a tiny airplane bathroom.

Motherhood is losing five pounds from the stress and sweat of travelling solo on an airplane with little children.

Motherhood is your first prescription of Ativan.

Motherhood is waking up multiple times a night to make sure the children are covered, to re-fill water glasses, and to escort sleepy little people to the bathroom.

Motherhood is not wanting to give up co-sleeping, ever.

Motherhood is knowing the words to all the songs your children love and singing along with them, even if people in other cars look at you like you're weird.

Motherhood is listening to these songs even when your children aren't in the car with you.

Motherhood is being able to multi-task. No - really multi-task.

Motherhood is coming up with a brilliant plan moments before an epic battle erupts between siblings. (It usually involves chocolate.)

Motherhood is discovering two raw eggs broken in your Louis Vuitton purse.

Motherhood is never missing your son's soccer game.

Motherhood is determination.

Motherhood is feeling such an intense feeling of pride when your child even runs the right way after the ball.

Motherhood is never ending laundry.

Motherhood is creative meal ideas and always having Nutella in the house.

Motherhood is Happy Meals.

Motherhood is having a hard time losing those last five pounds...

Motherhood is knowing your children so completely and loving them with all your heart and soul.

Motherhood is being constantly amazed at the things your children say and do for you.

Motherhood is changing sheets at 1 a.m.

Motherhood is learning new things, seeing things in a different light, and appreciating construction zones. After all, you now know the difference between a digger and a bulldozer.

Motherhood is getting emotional over every little thing, and sharing a special bond with other moms.

Motherhood is a non-stop, never-ending job.

Motherhood is simply awesome.

Thanks, Jill , for this great post idea!

Celebrating Summer

2011-06-09T15:19:00.000-04:00

"Mommy, can you stay home again today?" my five year old asked me yesterday morning as I was making his snack for school. He was busy colouring in his new Egypt colouring book we bought at the museum gift shop the day before. I was floored. Usually, my big boy blows me a kiss and barely has time to say good-bye to me when I leave for work.

That awful feeling of mommy guilt hit me like a ton of bricks. I ran upstairs to kiss my three year old good-bye. "Mommy, you no work today, right?" he looked up at me with his big, gorgeous, brown eyes.

I gave him the biggest hug I could, and told him I'd see him after work. I promised him I'd print him off a few pictures of Marv and Harry (you know, the bad guys from Home Alone?) because he's obsessed with that movie, and that made him smile.

Tuesday was one of those perfect summer days—I took the day off work and spent it with my boys. We went to the children's museum where we stamped our passports at different destinations around the world, explored Egypt, loaded cargo on the giant ship, and shopped for fresh fish in Greece. We made a few crafts in China, and then enjoyed a nice lunch of pogo sticks, french fries, and salad overlooking Parliament Hill. We frequent this museum often, and each time we go, we have a great time.

After the museum, it was time for kindergarten for my big boy, so off to school we went—we were the first to arrive, so the boys got to play outside before school started. After, I went grocery shopping, took a break with my baby boy, played in the backyard, and cleaned the house. I felt like the perfect stay-at-home mom. If only it was like this every day, I thought to myself.

"Don't you wish you could just lay down in the big, fluffy clouds?" I asked my five year old after school, on the drive to my sister's house. "Mommy. You'd fall right through!" he replied to me, "Because clouds are just made up of water particles."

The conversations I have with my boys make me smile all day long. The conversations I hear between my boys, when they don't even know I'm listening, make me smile even more.

We arrived to my sister's, where everyone was meeting to swim the night away and to enjoy a BBQ dinner. I love swimming with my boys—and this year, I'm truly amazed at how awesome they are in the water.

Summer days are filled with so many awesome things. My almost six year old had his first soccer game of the season a few days ago—he was so anxious to get on the field, and the shy guy at the beginning of the season last year was nowhere to be found.

I love everything about summer, even though it's been so busy I barely have time to blog. End of school parties, soccer games, swimming lessons, and evenings at the park and in the pool... I WISH I had the entire summer off to spend with my boys every day. However, I'll be taking off two days a week for two months starting at the end of July. If I could figure out a way to make that a reality year-round, it would be great.

Another reason I love summer? Vacation time! We're going on a road trip to Ogunquit, Maine soon. Over seven hours in the car with my boys should be... interesting. Thankfully GM Canada is hooking us up with an awesome mini-van with built-in DVD players, so that should help pass some of the time, right? Also, frequent stops. For our sanity, and for the children's sanity!

Summer is also all about backyard BBQ's. Very frequent backyard BBQ's. Right? How about some awesome BBQ gear to help you enjoy summer even more that valued at $100? Pretty awesome, huh?

The Celebrate Summer Giveaway (thanks to my friends at Life Made Delicious) includes:

Barbecue Utensil Set
Paper Plates
Colourful Napkins
General Mills goodies from:
Old El Paso
Cheerios (including Chocolate Cheerios!)
Fibre 1
Betty Crocker
Nature Valley

Sorry, this giveaway is only open to Canadian residents. I'll pick a winner randomly on July 7th!

YUMMY! Now you can have an awesome party in your backyard and invite all your friends—no more excuses!

I hope you're all enjoying summer so far. It's the little moments—the laughter in the pool, the walks around the block, the after dinner bike rides and visits to Dairy Queen—that are memories to cherish.

Dependently wealthy

2011-05-30T09:00:00.002-04:00

I'm going to talk about something here that I haven't talked about in much detail before.

I'm going to talk about money. I have a major problem. And I'm having an a-ha moment, like Oprah would say. (Aw, Oprah! Miss you!) Anyway. A little background information:

I'm addicted to shopping. The day Confessions of a Shopaholic arrived in the book store, I bought it. I read it in under an hour. I have never before related so closely to a fictional character. I think I may have even cried, reading about someone who was just like me. Another person I closely relate to is Cher from Clueless. I can be very clueless ~~all the time~~ sometimes, when it comes to my spending habits.

You know that thing when you see someone cute and he smiles and your heart kind of goes like warm butter sliding down hot toast? Well that's what it's like when I see a store. Only it's better.

Rebecca Bloomwood said it best. When I go shopping, I get a natural high. I feel happy. My hearts skips a beat. When my arms are heavy from holding pretty shopping bags, I smile. There is something so amazing about new purchases. I love running hands over new clothes hung in my closet, or inhaling that yummy new leather smell in my new pair of shoes.

I don't think of the damage I'm doing, though. How I max out my credit cards time and time again. How I put my family in bad situations because I love to shop. I've been known to hide shopping bags in my car. Or to sneak them in, secretly.

I spend beyond my means. I have expensive taste. Designer purses are my 'thing'. Sunglasses, too. I don't see the price tags when I shop. In fact, I sometimes purposely avoid looking at the price tag, and I sign the dotted line blindly. If something is $199, I round it down to $100. "It was barely a hundred dollars," I'll justify to myself afterwards.

When I lived at home, and even when I was living in D.C., I had a gold AMEX. I had no limit, basically. And my parents would pay for everything. I can't tell you how many times I sat down with my dad to have 'the talk', and how many times I promised that next month, I wouldn't spend so much. Of course, everything changed when I got married. My dad gave me away, I became a married woman, and I had to leave my gold AMEX behind. I still enjoy taking vacatitons with my mom, since she shares this love of shopping with me. For some reason, when we're shopping in another city, or country, it feels like we aren't doing any damage at all!

I have a good job, and I make good money. However, combined with my husband's income, we are still not making enough to support my spending habits. I want it all, I guess. Once my children were born, not only was I shopping for myself, but I was shopping for them, too. Polo, Lacoste, Burberry, Puma's... book cases filled with hundreds of books, expensive German made toys that stimulate a child's imagination, and a garage filled with ride-on cars and bicycles.

I wasn't buying my children's love; I just loved buying things. Aside from reading books together, the quality time I spend with my children doesn't have a price tag on it. It's just my need... desire... to shop.

I had a discussion on Twitter with Ali the other day, about spending habits and budgets, and she blogged about how she put herself on a budget. I need to do this, too. I know it's going to be one of the hardest things I've ever done, but I'm also the most determined person ever when I make up my mind about something. I'm going to do this, because I'm at that point where I have to start making real adult decisions.

I want to take my family on a nice vacation this summer. I want to renovate my kitchen. I want to go to San Diego. I want to be in Florida again this winter. I can't do all this AND continue to spend so frivolously. I need to take action—I need to BUDGET.

I won't make any big promises on my blog, like saying I won't shop until the fall, but I will promise to make necessary changes. Old Navy is my best friend. I will only buy one new pair of shoes this summer. I will be content with the amount of purses I already own. And I won't buy any news books until I'm finished reading the ones that are stacked on my night table.

I'd love to hear from you.

How do you save money? Do you have a budget? Can I do it, too? And how many tears will I shed to reach my desired goal—to have enough money saved to do the important things I want to do?

Sigh. I miss my gold AMEX.

Born this way

2011-05-25T12:13:00.004-04:00

During my first pregnancy, I had certain... ideas about how I'd raise my children.

"I'll never breastfeed!" I declared one day.

"I'll still have a super active social life!" I promised my friends while we were out having drinks, something we did almost every night.

"I'll make the rules—my children will listen to me!" I said in a room full of other moms at my baby shower.

Only now do I know why they all started laughing at me.

What you say before you become a mom—and what you do once your are a mom—are two completely different things.

I breastfed, didn't get out much when I had a new baby at home, and never made too many rules for my boys.

Everyone parents differently. I co-sleep with my three year old. I'm relaxed about my children's chocolate consumption. My boys use a stroller if they get really tired. I am a helicopter mom, and I'm a constant worrier. I educate my boys, keep them active, and travel with them as often as I can. We have memberships to all the museums in town, and we let our boys do what they want—within reason—as long as they're safe, healthy, and happy. I think taking part in extra-curricular activites is important, and I'm my children's number one cheerleader, goal or no goal.

When my youngest son asked for a pink plasma car, I said yes. When he asked to buy a doll, again, I complied. Despite this, my son is very much a little boy. It's just natural for him, and for his brother, to love play fighting, to think trucks and diggers and cement mixers are awesome, and to want to climb furniture as if they're monkeys. Trust me—I never taught my boys to act like wild animals in the home! It's something that they were born with. Of course, both boys have different personalities; my oldest son is more of a bookworm, and reserved, my youngest, more athletic and daring.

As parents, we are responsible for the well-being of our children. It is up to us to try our best to make our children normal members of society. That's not to say girls should wear pink, and boys need to have short hair; but they should know IF they are a boy or a girl. Pretty basic concept right? Not for some parents...

When I found out that a couple in Toronto was keeping the sex of their baby a secret, I rolled my eyes. And then get upset. I feel sorry for this child. And for his siblings. I think these parents are only doing this for show and for attention—not because they want the best for their offspring. Trust me. Not knowing if you're a boy or a girl is not healthy. And these parents will in turn end up spending thousands of dollars in therapy for this child named Storm. (There's a therapy session right there...)

These children are not attending school. They're not even being home-schooled the 'normal' way. The parents practice 'unschooling', (*eye roll*) and believe a child's learning should be curiosity driven. So if they're never curious about learning the alphabet, I guess... so be it?

They believe children can make choices for themselves, like how to wear their hair and choosing their own clothes. Sure, we all let our children choose what to wear from time to time, and I encourage independence in my children, but as a parent, it's ME who makes the real decisions. And if my son puts on a shirt that is dirty and stained with grape juice and we have somewhere important to be? Of course I'm going to change him!

This Toronto couple wants 4-month-old Storm to grow up free from strict social norms about males and females, so they have shared his or her sex only with their other children, Jazz and Kio, a family friend, and two midwives.

I wonder what will happen when this child is of the age to join a sports team? Will the parents protest that teams are, after a certain age, divided by gender? Will they be totally okay if Storm is a boy and chooses to only wear dresses out in public? Even for an important job interview? When Storm becomes a teenager, then what? What about rules like not wearing a hat in school? Assuming they ever enter a public or private school system, will they argue those rules, too?

I just can't accept this way of new-age parenting. It's completely unhealthy. Some people are calling this a lab experiment, and I have to agree. Some say it borders on child abuse.

Because Jazz and Kio wear pink and have long hair, they're frequently assumed to be girls. The parents don't correct people; they leave it to the kids to do it if they want to. "Though Jazz likes dressing as a girl, he doesn't seem to want to be mistaken for one," the article says. Right there, you've got yourself a problem and I'm glad I'm not the one who has to fix this. How messed up for these kids!

I'm all for raising children your own way—and I think we should all tolerate different ways that children are being raised today, within reason. We don't have to jump up and down and clap our hands just because someone is doing something so drastically different. Sometimes, it's just wrong.

This and that. And The Bachelorette!

2011-05-24T09:00:00.002-04:00

So, hi. We're still here. Unless Rapture happened and everyone I know and love stayed behind with me, in which case, yay, we're gonna have a great time!

Seriously, though. I wasn't scared, not at all! Not even when on the day before un-Rapture, the clouds turned dark, and the skies were stormy, and I thought, "Well, this might be it..." but then, the next day? Rapture day? The sun was shining like never before, and I got over my fear. Wait, I wasn't scared, so what am I even talking about?

Since un-Rapture, I got to enjoy a nice long weekend. We didn't get the greatest weather, but Saturday was brilliant! Hot, sunny, beautiful. Any time spent with my children is cherished, and when the sun is shining, it's an added bonus.

We opened my sister's pool, enjoyed the nice weather, went to a birthday party, played, set off some fireworks, visited our favourite museum, went out for lunch with friends, had dinner with my parents, and had a grand old time.

This is only the beginning of what's already a jam-packed summer—a summer that's going to be filled with laughter and good times, and hopefully, many more sunny days so we can swim to our heart's content!

Now that summer has arrived, it means that most of my favourite shows have come—or are coming—to an end. Unlike the last two seasons, Grey's didn't make me hysterical during the season finale. And tonight, we find out who wins Dancing With The Stars, (I LOVE Kirstie, but Chelsea is the best dancer!) and then, I'll be left with only two shows to watch!

Normally, the TV is turned off during the summer, but there are a few shows I'll be watching. Like Entourage, for the final season. (It starts July 24!)

And... God... The Bachelorette. Yes, I watched last night, and just like The Bachelor hooked me from the very first episode, I am already looking forward to next week's nonsense! (In my defense: this year marks the first time I've watched either show, and just like a train-wreck, I can't look away!)

At first I was bummed that Ashley was the chosen one, because everyone knows Michelle would have been far, FAR more entertaining. But I am getting used to Ashley's too-bubbly personality, and the fact that she says "awesome!" as much as I do in any given conversation. Also, how often do we get to see a girl who is a dentist dance solo on a stage in her introduction montage? Ashley, the dentist-dancer, who irritated us all when she was with lame Brad, is baaack! And she looks good, too.

When the 25 guys were introduced, I was kind of cringing, because a lot of them rubbed me the wrong way. Especially icky, icky Ames. Is there another word to describe this Ivy League graduate with a funny looking face? His ego is so big, it is surely compensating for something.

And Bentley, the guy who talks about how he's NOT attracted to Ashley at all? Both these guys got a rose and will be around for another episode. The thing is, Ashley is dumb. "I want to give him a fair chance..." Silly girl! She was told by an inside source that Bentley was on the show for all the wrong reasons (if you believe anyone is on for honest reasons...) and yet, she still believed his emotional "trust me" story... oh well. Good television, I guess?

There was the drunk guy who got sent home, the guy with the guitar, the guy with an awesome name (Constantine!) and the guy with the mask. Then there was West, the widow. There was the Canadian, who didn't get a rose, and Anthony the butcher, who, sadly, also got sent home. He was so ridiculous, it was pure fun watching him. The wine making dude was nice and so was J.P, the construction dude. Both guys got a rose, as well.

Who will Ashely end up with? My money is on Brad, because, just hours before The Bachelorette aired, we found out that Brad and Emily had broken up. And since the drunk guy was sent home, maybe Brad will step in and sweep Ashley off her feet again? Okay, unlikely... but still, what a fun twist that would be in an otherwise predictable show! (But please, no. I can't handle seeing that guy on TV ever, ever again!)

Did you watch?
Who did you like?
Who rubbed YOU the wrong way?
Will Ashley find her man?
Are we doomed to weeks of watching Ames and Bentley?
Isn't Ashley prettier as a brunette?

And... go!

Take me away!

2011-05-11T09:00:00.004-04:00

If this is going to be the last post I publish before Rapture, I don't want it to be about something frivolous, like how much fun I had appearing on Daytime Ottawa talking about blogging, or my upcoming photo shoot with Ottawa Magazine, or how happy I was that Puck wasn't the one to die on Glee last night. (Phew!)

I want to talk about something more serious, like what we're all going to wear for Rapture.

And if we're RAPTURE READY or not!

I'll be honest, my brain hurts, trying to make sense of it all. I've read some really confusing things.

Basically, the end of the world is taking place this weekend: "The dead in Christ will rise, then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord."

Don't worry, though; you still have time to repent. And oh, LORD, do I have some repentin' to do. I'm sorry, God! I'm just a mere mortal! I looooove you. Okay, moving on...

I kept hearing about the Tribulation and although I know the meaning of the word, I wasn't sure what it had to do with Rapture, and then I started singing Cecilia by Simon and Garfunkel because remember the part that goes: "Tribulation.... she loves me again..." but then I realized I had the word wrong; it's Jubilation, not Tribulation. Anyway. I digress...

The truth is, I didn't know what Rapture was until a few days ago. I knew about the second coming and all that, but I didn't know it actually had its own word.

I remember Marinka talking about Rapture in a few of her tweets over the last few weeks, and discussing what she would be wearing. And I thought to myself, "Oh, fun! Must be some religious event she's been invited to, like a Bar Mitzvah or something." And then she said jeggings were out, so I thought, yup, some fancy, fun affair! I guess I was half right, right?

So. The end of the world. Well, no big surprise, what with the weather being so insane lately. From devestating earthquakes, to tsunamis, to non-stop rain and raging fires, something is going on. In all seriousness, I think Mother Nature is sending us a sign of sorts. And frankly, I'm a little concerned. (But not really. But maybe a tad.)

"The sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give its light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." (Matthew 24:29-31)

I'm making light of this because it's not going to happen. However, I've seen enough creepy movies to believe that one day, something like this will occur and um, it's going to be the scariest thing EVER. Things like this are 100% more scary for me since I have children, so I am really trying to not think about it.

But what if I don't get to go up with everyone? What if I'm left behind with a handful of other people? What if we don't get along? Will my real life turn into The Stand? Who will cook for me? Who will comment on my blog posts?

So much to think about! So, what does one wear for Rapture? Apparently, NOTHING comes with us, not even our iphones, so it doesn't matter what we wear, but just in case we had time to ask Jesus if we could wear some clothes, (it's unseasonably cold this May!) what would you want to be in? For me, although I love fashion, I'd like to go in my lulu's. With a cute little t-shirt from Club Monaco.

What'll you wear for Rapture?

You've got mail!

2011-05-10T11:33:00.000-04:00

I first found out about email during my first year of university. I was sitting at the computer with my future husband, listening to him explain it to me, and showing me how to use it. I remember being completely against the idea of sending messages to people through a computer.

"I'm never going to use email!" I declared, and walked away.

A few of my friends had gone away to university, and I stocked up on nice writing paper and pens eager to start writing letters to them. Checking the mail box was fun, and new letters would arrive weekly—pages of hand-written letters from my closest friends, with juicy details about their first year in university and about their experiences living on their own.

Eventually, though, I gave in. I got my first email account through the university I was attending.

The rest, as they say, is history. And my love affair began.

My closest friends and I would go to the computer lab on the 4th floor of the university library to send emails to one another. "Send me an email!" we'd say, excitedly. And well, I guess that's when the obsession took over.

Since 1995, I've been online. And loving it. Emails can brighten your day. They can make you smile. They can make you laugh. Hard. They can make your heart go a flutter, and give you butterflies. Sometimes, certain emails can make you shed tears. It's through email that I found out my best friend had suffered a miscarriage, it's through email I found out she was pregnant again, and it's through email that I found out my high school boyfriend had been killed in a car accident.

Through email, we share stories and pictures, and turn public conversations private. Email is the best way to stay in touch with friends who live far away, and it's a great way to send pictures to family. I remember sending pictures of my newborn son to relatives who lived as far away as Greece. With one click, you are connected through the miles.

Email is usually the first thing we check each and every morning when we turn on our computers. Seeing an inbox filled with unread messages always makes me happy.

Email is like... the never ending birthday present. It's always full of surprises, usually leaves me satisfied, and always makes me want more.

Where were you when you got your first email? Has it changed your life, too?

Thank you to Yahoo! Mail for sponsoring this post about staying connected. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

Big kids in strollers

2011-05-09T15:49:00.000-04:00

Admit it.

You do it.

And you like it.

Maybe not all the time, but sometimes.

It brings you pleasure. It makes you feel better.

You know what I'm talking about.

Yup.

Judging other moms.

We gossip about the way other moms do things, about what other moms feed their kids, and about how late other moms let their children stay up at night.

"I'd never let my child wear that in public!"

"Can you believe she wouldn't let him have a cookie just because he didn't eat his veggies?"

"He's FOUR years old, and he still sucks a soother?"

Listen, we're human. We're going to talk about the way other people parent, especially when we think we're doing something better. At the same time, we suffer from mom envy, too. I sometimes envy the moms who stay home full-time, the moms who are excellent chefs, and the moms who keep their home looking impeccable all the time. Much to my (Greek) mom's dismay, I'm just not that mom.

I'm the mom who enthusiastically buys a lot of fruits and vegetables at the grocery store, vowing that this will be the day her children will grab the carrot sticks over the less healthy snack, the mom who swears that tomorrow she won't yell not even once and the mom who will say no twice but give in the third time, to whatever request her children ask of her.

I'm also a total helicopter mom. Time magazine has called overparenting 'insanity' and I'm okay with that. If being a protective mom makes me insane, so be it. Some experts say that hyperparenting is totally rational, especially considering the society we live in.

No matter what the experts say, I just do things my way. And I've got no problem with you doing things your way, so long as your children are loved and protected.

I'm not the mom who is relaxed at the BBQ, sipping my glass of wine with the other adults. I'm the mom who is playing with (or supervising) the children. Mostly because I don't want anything bad to happen to my child.

Maybe other moms think my behaviour is ridiculous, and maybe we'll laugh about it together, and maybe I'll admit I wish could be more relaxed like they are. I'm okay with moms discussing different parenting methods.

What I'm not okay with is when someone makes fun of a child for whatever reason.

Today, I read an interview about someone who has a website called Too Big For Stroller. Basically, this woman—who is not a mom by the way, has a huge pet peeve. Her pet peeve is seeing children whom she considers to be too big for strollers, sitting in strollers.

So what does this classy lady do? She secretly takes pictures of these children and posts them on her website. She is nice enough to sort of block out the child's face, but still. How so very classy of her. (Another great post about this topic can be found here.)

She says: "I mean, you could be the world's best businesswoman, but when you're pushing a stroller, it just screams: "I'm just a parent, that is all I am.""

How I wish I could meet this woman in the airport one day, so she could see me, a mere MOM, pushing her two very big boys—three years old and almost six, thanks very much—in a stroller. I'm sure we'd exchange a few words and I, as the mere MOM, would of course come out on top.

Don't mess with moms who have big kids in strollers.

And to everyone else, stop judging other moms. We're all in this together!

Peace out.

On being a mom

2011-05-06T00:00:00.006-04:00

Life begins all over again when you cross the threshold into motherhood. It's impossible to understands what it means to be a mom until you become one. The change is unreal, and sudden, and your life gets divided into before and after. The before is fuzzy for a long while after your baby is placed in your arms. Life changes drastically. I always appreciated and loved my mom, but once I become a mom myself, we became even closer.

When I was pregnant for the first time, I believed that once I got out of the first trimester, the worry would go away. Then I was thirteen weeks pregnant, and I was just as worried as the week before. I ate well; my husband made me salmon at least one a week, I ate more vegetables than any other time in my life, I took my Materna daily, and I indulged in McFlurries during every episode of The Amazing Race. I also slept a lot. Which is a good thing, since it's been almost six years since I last slept.

When my son was born, I was a basket-case for the first few weeks. I didn't know what to wear, I was unsure of how to hold my baby, I didn't want any visitors, and I bought stock in Purell. Leaving the house with a baby in tow was a challenge and caused me much anxiety at first.

Becoming a mom means leaving all inhibitions behind. I breastfed my baby in a fancy steak house one night, nothing I'd ever thought I'd do. But there I was, a new mom, eating a well done filet mignon, talking to the owner of the steak house about how yummy my food was, all the while nursing my baby. Life changes in ways you never thought possible.

When my second baby was born, I was much more at ease. I didn't mind my best friends coming to visit me in the hospital, I was confident that I could take care of my newborn, and I knew what to wear those first few weeks at home. Heck, I even got my hair done three weeks after brining baby home. I was no longer in the mommy amateur club.

Still, life with two small childen was, and is, no easy task. Every day, it's challenging. Being a mom is the only job on earth that never ends. Never mind that we don't get much sleep to begin with, or that there is always someone who needs help with something, or that the house always needs tidying, it's a non-stop job even when you're apart from your children. They're always in your thoughts. The worry is unmeasurable. The love, indescribable. It's the best job in the whole world, too. It's a daily wonderful adventure. The under-the-cover snuggles, the feeling of pride you feel when you watch your child in the classroom, the love shown between siblings, the laughter, the hugs, the sheer joy of it all. I could go on forever.

Being a mom is simply... awesome. And I am so lucky.

Happy Mother's Day to you all!

Breaking news: Panic

2011-05-02T09:01:00.046-04:00

I used to work in a busy news room here in Ottawa, and when I was an intern in Washingon, D.C. for CBS News. I loved the non-stop action and excitement that came with working in television. No matter what job you have—writer, editor, camera operator, anchor—there is always something going on.

This weekend was packed with major news stories: The Royal Wedding, America coming to terms with the devestation left after tornadoes ripped through Alabama, Canadians about to head to the polls, and late last night, the world finding out that justice was finally, finally served.

The weekend started off with the world celebrating the marriage of a young couple; the weekend ended with the world celebrating the death of a terrorist.

September 11, 2001 is a day that remains crystal clear to me, much like the days both my children were born. I wrote about it here, and here. I remember each second of that day, right down to what I was wearing (Gap pants, white shirt) to the snack I was eating (green grapes) when I heard the news. It was a day no one will ever forget. A day that brought together the world, a day time stood still, a day that changed everything.

Before we found out that Osama had been killed, we were told that Obama would be making a special announcement at 10:30 p.m. This was a breaking news story unlike any other, since no one had any clue what he would say.

Of course, I first found out on Twitter—my personal google, the place where breaking news happens first, and the place where people like me gather to discuss everything from what we ate for dinner to, well, the end of the world as we know it.

I saw a tweet from @OHMommy saying the President was about to make a major announcement and no one has any idea what it was going to be. I was lying down next to my sleeping three year old when I read this.

At first, I wasn't worried.

Then a tweet from @MarinkaNYC caused me to panic:

Marinka wasn't too concerned with my alien theory, since she is wiser than I am.

I'm the first to admit that I freak out about everything. If I can't reach a family member after trying to call them, I think worst case scenario. Always. Of course last night was no exception. Obama making a secretive annoucement to the world meant only one thing—we were being invaded by aliens. The spaceships had landed. Mars Attacks. ET phone home. Screw 2012. The end was NOW. I was thankful my children were already asleep, as I started preparing myself for the worst case scenario: alien invasion. I was so glad I ate carbs for lunch and dinner.

I called my mom to say goodbye, and to tell her I love her. She wasn't too pleased I woke her up to tell her about this late night breaking news story, but I did what I had to do. "Put it on CNN, mom! I love you. I'll... take care of the kids. GOODBYE!" I said, and hung up the phone, to watch the end of the world unfold before my eyes.

Hey, don't tell me you didn't entertain the idea of something this drastic—something this extraordinary—being the reason for this breaking news story.

When Wolf said that Obama's annoucement was being pushed back to 10:50 p.m because he had to notify other world leaders, I was certain we were doomed.

Then, I had another idea.

It was Osama. They killed Osama.

I sent out a tweet saying that Osama had been killed, and two minutes later, John King on CNN confirmed it. So, yeah. I was the first person to announce to the world that Osama was dead.

And I'm not making it up! Look, here's proof:

Now when we're asked where we were the day Osama died? We can all say: "I was on Twitter."
Today, I'll be hanging out by the phone. Waiting for CNN to call me with a job offer.

Insectophobia

2011-04-28T09:00:00.004-04:00

Summer.

It's just around the corner, and for this, I'm very grateful, especially since we haven't had a good spring at all. The weather has been awful. It's been cold, raining, hailing, and yes, even snowing. Thanks a lot, spring.

Summer, though. Summer is different. It's the season of love, sunshine, and happiness. The season of sun-kissed skin, flirty dresses, and pretty shoes. Swimming every day, BBQ's at night, and cold beverages enjoyed with friends on patios. It's definitely my favourite season.

There is almost nothing I don't like about summer. Except for this one thing...

Insects. Bugs. Wasps, bees, ants, earwigs, spiders and centipedes. These are the things I can do without. I used to wake up my father at all times of the night just to kill the smallest of insects, if one was in my room. I used to kill mosquitos with hair spray, because at least I didn't have to touch them that way.

I have a serious fear of bugs. So bad, in fact, that I've even put my life in danger.

A few years ago I noticed a spider on my arm, crawling on my olive green Banana Republic coat, as I was driving home. Not knowing what to do to get this creature off of me, I started screaming. And smashing my arm against the window of my car, to kill it. I didn't realise at the time that I was also weaving in and out of three lanes on a very busy road. Thankfully, it was late at night, and I was pretty much the only one driving at the time. Otherwise a major accident would have occured. All because of this stupid spider.

When I was on maternity leave, I was in the kitchen cleaning up while my baby was taking a nap in his room. That's when I noticed a giant wasp on the banister of the stairs. I panicked. I sat there, for 15 minutes, just staring at the wasp. I quickly sent a text to my husband, asking him to come home from work to help me. I was in major distress, because I had no way of getting to my sleeping child. What if he woke up and needed me? Or, worse—what if the wasp started flying towards his room? How does one actually kill a flying wasp, anyway? Eventually, the wasp moved and I was able to rescue my baby before he woke up, but that was a situation I never want to be in again!

Another time, when I was living in D.C., a centipede—the insect I am freaked out the most by—scurried into my closet. What could be worse than a centipede entering your closet? Argh. Pretty much nothing. I did what any sane person would do: I took out all my clothes and laid them on the floor of the family room. I inspected each item, and when I was certain there was no centipede just waiting to crawl down my back, I left them neatly on a pile on the couch for the next several months. I never opened that closet again.

I believe the fear of bugs—insectophobia—runs in the family. Driving home from dinner one night, my sister suddenly slammed on her brakes in the middle of the street. I nearly rear-ended her. She ran out, onto the sidewalk. I quickly pulled over to see what was wrong, and she said to me, nearly in tears: "There is a spider in my car!" Yes, she did abandon her car in the middle of the street. I can't remember what happened next, except I know we both made it home alive.

The most embarrassing thing about my fear is how I behave in front of my children. We'll be outside together, enjoying a beautiful day, and suddenly, I'll start waving my arms, running in circles, and screaming like a lunatic if I see a bee or wasp.

I have even (Oh, GOD, parenting award of the year) run into my house if a bee gets near, closing the door behind me, leaving my kids vulnerable to attack! I know, right? What kind of mother am I? Instead of telling my boys they won't get stung if they just stand still, I tell them how when I was nine years old, enjoying a bike ride to the corner store to buy Nerds and FunDip, I got stung by a bee. Just like that! And again, last summer. I was just walking, and boom, I got stung. So yeah, they DO attack innocent people. And now, I have made my children scared, too.

However, don't be alarmed. They are still very much little boys who love playing in the mud and touching worms. Which, as I'm sure you are aware, makes me cry a little inside.

I guess there are worse fears to have, right? And if you know of a way I can get over this phobia of mine, please let me know!

(Oh, and hey! If you wanted to hear all about the Royal ParTea I attended with Jeanne Beker - completely bug-free, thank you very much—you can read all about it here, online in Ottawa At Home Magazine!)

THE event of the year!

2011-04-20T11:56:00.008-04:00

Sadly, I won't be making it to London in time for THE biggest wedding of the year, even though I had the perfect outfit planned for the occasion. My invitation was also lost in the mail, but really, these things happen, so I'm not that upset.

Instead of staying home and feeling sad that I'm not at the wedding of the year, rubbing elbows with the Beckham family, and asking Victoria just how many nannies she employees, I will be at THE biggest event of the season, right here in beautiful Ottawa.

I was invited to attend and cover the Royal ParTea, a fashion fundraiser for the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation, with Jeanne Beker, Canada's very own Queen of Fashion herself. She's a TV personality, a journalist, an author, a jet setter, and pretty much as close to Canadian royalty as you can get. I'll be writing all about this event for Ottawa At Home Magazine, too, complete with pictures, so stay tuned for that!

The event is a Royal Wedding preview, taking place in the elegant 4th floor gallery of the stunning Museum of Nature tomorrow afternoon. Tickets for this event are $250 a person, and with only 125 invitations, you can rest assured it will be one elegant event.

The Royal ParTea will also be hosted by CTV's Carol Ann Meehan, and will feature an exciting fashion show with Kate Middleton inspired fashions from St. Laurent Centre. Adding to the pomp and circumstance: the Governor General's footguards will also be front and centre at the party.

We will be treated to champagne, taste treats, and a delicious high tea service by Thyme and Again. Of course, no event if complete without a fabulous goodie bag and this unique gift bag is filled with full-sized products from Chanel, Pandora, Dior, Crabtree & Evelyn, and more.

As we're sipping our tea, Jeanne Beker will be giving us the inside scoop on the Royal Wedding before she leaves for London for the real thing. She's been travelling back and forth, visiting with all the suppliers of the Royal Wedding, and I can't wait to find out all the fun details of Kate and Will's big day!

There are still a few tickets left for this event, and if you'd like to support this amazing cause, you can purchase your tickets here.

Hope to see you there. And if you can't make it, I'll give you all the details later, anyway!

Everything you wanted to know about Greek Easter

2011-04-19T15:49:00.019-04:00

It should come as no surprise to you that the biggest celebration of the year for Greek people revolves around food.

There are many things I love about being Greek, and Easter is one of them. The week leading up to Easter—Holy Week—is where people of Greek Orthodox faith are more well behaved than any other time of year. I can't say that's true for me, since I don't even fast, but I know there are a few good Greek Christians out there, somewhere!

On Good Friday, children are brought to church to help decorate and place flowers on the 'coffin' of Jesus, and, on Good Friday, we don't eat much. You will find many grumpy Greek people on this day. We basically eat boiled water and perhaps a fruit or two.

Saturday night before Easter, we go to church for midnight mass. Several thousand Greek people pack into our relatively small church, all holding candles. The children's candles are always the most decorated, and beautiful, and are traditionally given to them by their Godparents.

Right before midnight, all the lights are turned off, and the church remains lit only by the Eternal Flame on the altar. At midnight, the Priest calls out "Christos Anesti" and passes the flame to everyone around him, until all the candles are lit. We all kiss each other, (and this can take up to an hour because we keep bumping into people we know) and it's such pretty sight, the thousands of flickering candles, as we make our way outside at midnight.

Of course, the night is not complete without a few ladies burning their hair, but we have grown accustomed to the smell of hair catching on fire, and to the feeling of warm wax falling onto our hands.

After church , we drive home, candles still lit. We get weird looks from people in other cars, who are wondering why we're holding lit candles in the car. (I don't even want to know what would happen if an airbag popped open.) We do this to make a sign of the cross with the candle once we get home, under the door frame, in smoke. The burned cross remains there throughout the year, symbolizing that the light of the Resurrection has blessed the home.

The candles are then placed around the dinner table for the midnight meal. Before we begin eating, we break eggs with eachother. This is a challenge called "tsougrisma". Who ever has the strongest egg is the winner. Of what? I don't quite know, but it's still fun to win.

Greek Easter for me is all about the warm and delicious smell of my grandmother's fresh baked Easter bread, tsoureki, yummy koulouria, Greek cookies, dyed red eggs, and of course, the lamb. Oh, the lamb...

On Easter Sunday, Greek men (and women) wake up at the crack of dawn to get the spits and grills all fired up for the big feast, and for the lambs. Around noon, we start ripping off the meat, and eating. We also enjoy other food, like Greek chicken rice soup, cheese, bread, potatoes, salads, pasta dishes, and more meat. So much more.

It's the beginning of a two day feast where basically, we just eat and sleep, in rotation, with friends and family. We listen to Greek music, dance, break some plates, and say "Xristos Anesti" over and over again, and continue eating, until we can't take it anymore. Tents are put up in backyards, everyone has a drink in their hand, and we party hard.

Of course, chocolate is also important for Greek people celebrating Easter, too, and every year I have an Easter egg hunt for my children in our house before the real festivities begin.

Along with the candles, new shoes and outfits are purchased for children from their Godparents, and if you're ever at someone's house, celebrating Greek Easter with them, and you're not sure what that guy's name is? Just call him George. Nine times out of ten, you'll be right.

The news this week

2011-04-15T09:00:00.003-04:00

Like many of you, I start my day by drinking a cup of Starbucks coffee and reading the news, in print, and online.

Every week, a few stories fall into one of three categories for me: Ridiculous, Are You Serious, and Complete Craziness. And every week, a few people from the entertainment world say a quote or two worth repeating.

I present to you the top three stories of the week, and the quotes that had me laughing the most.
Ridiculous:

Last week, I received my J.Crew catalogue in the mail and as usual, I flipped through the pages to see which items I would add to my 'must-buy' and 'lust-after' list. I love everything about J.Crew. I also love buying my boys clothes from crewcuts; the shirts are tagless, and super soft.

Yesterday I read about the controversy over a picture of the company's creative director, Jenna, with her son. The picture shows an adorable little dude, laughing with his mom. A happy moment, captured on film. Ad or no ad, it looked real to me. Her son also happens to be wearing pink nail polish; "Lucky for me, I ended up with a boy whose favorite colour is pink," Jenna said in the caption.

This little boy, who likes the colour pink, has made the news. Because he's wearing nail polish. The horror! Seriously? This is not a big deal. Every time I paint my toes, my boys ask me to paint their toes, too. I never say no. I do take off the polish before we leave the house, but if they wanted to keep it on, I'd be okay with that. When my youngest son wanted a pink plasma car, that's what he got. I wasn't going to tell him blue was better because he's a boy. In the morning, when I'm putting on my make-up, my son sits on the counter, putting on make-up too. I wash his face after, but I'm not harming him by letting him try on my lipstick.

There is no harm in a little boy wearing nail polish. Just like there is nothing wrong with my three year old playing with a doll or riding a pink plasma car. Just like there was nothing wrong with me playing Star Wars and He-Man when I was a little girl.

Let kids be kids. Let them live in their innocent world of colour and make-belief and imaginary friends. Boys can wear pink and girls can play hockey. Every child is unique. My five year old loves books and collecting coins. He'd rather be reading than playing hockey. And I'm okay with that. My boys, similar in some ways, are also very different little characters. I embrace their differences and I love seeing their personalities develop, no matter what their favourite colour is. Let's worry about bigger issues.

Are You Serious?

An air traffic controller failed to respond to two planes that were landing at Reagan National Airport in D.C. recently.

Why? Because he was asleep! I know being an air traffic controller is one the hardest jobs there is; I have a hard enough time keeping up with Tweetdeck, so I get it. It's a hard job. But. It's a serious job! It's one thing to fall asleep in your office with your hand on your mouse, it's a totally different thing to fall asleep when you're directing AIR TRAFFIC and have hundreds of lives in your hands. The air traffic controller was working his fourth consecutive overnight shift when he fell asleep. Someone needs a new job. And thanks to this new fear I have of air traffic controllers falling asleep on the job, I will be increasing my dose of Ativan the next time I fly.

Compete Craziness!

Garbage. We all make it. We all have it. We all think it stinks. Luckily, we live in a society where garbage trucks pick up our trash every week. For this I'm grateful, but at the same time, I pay thousands upon thousands of dollars in taxes to this lovely city of mine and therefore, I kind of think it's a given that someone will come pick up my trash. It is a service I pay for, after all. And I don't like being told I have to seperate my trash in blue, red, yellow, pink and green bins. I recycle, yes, but I also don't want to have to think about where to place every item that needs tossing. My lovely city will be reducing our garbage pick-up to every two weeks starting next year. That should make for a fun, maggot-filled, stinky summer!

Awesome quotes of the week:

My favourite news man, Anderson Cooper, had this to say about Snooki:

"I'm telling you, Snooki is one impossibly lucky, unusually spunky, freakishly tan, beer guzzling, juicehead hugging, muscle loving, Botero body, pint-sized money-making machine."

And funny Greek man, Zach Galifianakis, offered some advice about Twitter:

"Like, I would advise people that while it's okay to tweet about your paper-towel purchase, I really don't want to know about what shape your stool is in."

And look! A quote from another funny Greek, the always brilliant Tina Fey, on expecting her second baby:

"I'm not sure I'm remembering correctly, but I think it hurts a lot when they come out."

Do you love Glee and Sex and the City? Then you'll appreciate this quote from Lea Michele:

"I totally figured it out: Rachel Berry grown-up is Charlotte York from Sex and the City, if Charlotte were raised in Ohio by two gay men."

And that's your week in news! Have a great weekend, everyone.

What to expect when you become a mom

2011-04-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

No matter how much you think you know about becoming a mom—no matter how many books you’ve read on the subject, no matter how many conversations you’ve had with friends, no matter how many summers you spent babysitting as a teenager—until your baby is placed in your arms, you don’t know a thing, really.

I was clueless when I became a mom for the first time. I never really spent a lot of time with babies except to ooh and aah over them. When I became a mom for the first time, I didn't have any friends who already had children (except for my best friend who had also just given birth) so it was a brand new world for me. No one really told me what to expect.

By the time I had my second baby, I felt like an expert. I worried less. I slept more. And as time went by, life got a whole lot easier. Still, everyday is an adventure...

Here are a few things you can expect when you become a mom:

You will walk around topless the first week after bringing your baby home because your boobs are constantly in use.

You will learn the words to and sing every children's song ever invented. Even in public. Embarrassing yourself takes some getting used to, but you'll adapt. Sometimes, you will sing along with these songs even when your children aren’t in the car with you. You might even catch yourself watching Sesame Street when the children have long since left the room.

You will roll your eyes at every childless person who complains they are tired. They have NO IDEA. You manage to do it all with only four hours of broken sleep a night. (For five years!)

You'll cry out in pain when you step on LEGO. Stepping on LEGO is not something you can avoid.

You will chase your children around with food begging them to eat, while your blood pressure reaches dangerous levels.

You will never go to the bathroom in peace again.

You will give your children tampons to play with so you can enjoy just two more minutes in the shower.

You will lose five pounds in sweat as you watch your toddler touch every part of a public bathroom.

You will have a nervous breakdown when your child uses the bathroom at a dirty truck stop in the middle of nowhere.

You will have nightmares about this incident for years to come.

You will invest heavily in hand sanitizer.

You will become an expert at negotiating with small terrorists who have vocal chords that can shatter glass.

You will discover why grocery shopping should be done alone.

You will learn to change a diaper in the dark while warming up a bottle of milk at the same time.

You will sit through a business meeting in a crisp white shirt, looking professional, only to realize later that you have leaked a little from your left breast.

You will have your eyeballs poked, your skin scratched, and your hair pulled every day.

You will become emotional over every little thing. I get teary-eyed looking at doodles my children draw for me, I still melt with each hug I receive, and I love sleeping beside my children.

All sorts of commercials will make you cry.

You will become your child's most important teacher; not only will you teach your children how to write, how to read, and how to count, you'll also teach them to share, to give back, and to never give up.

You will also be your child's biggest supporter. Goal or no goal, I never stop cheering for my son from the sidelines.

Your dinner will sometimes consist of what you've picked up from the floor.

You'll get to play in the sand again, and swing high on the swings along with your children.

What words of wisdom would you give to a new mom? What do you wish you had known? What have you learned since you became a parent?

African Cats

2011-04-11T09:00:00.000-04:00

I was sitting in the movie theatre a few weeks ago anxiously awaiting the start of some movie (can't remember which one—I have a terrible memory, and plus, I mostly go for the popcorn, anyway) and a preview for African Cats appeared on the big screen.

Within seconds, I was crying. And almost choking on my popcorn, which we all know is like the number one killer. You know how those kernals get stuck in the weirdest place under your tongue and nothing gets them un-stuck? Anyway. As I was almost dying, I was also wiping away my tears, because the preview for the movie was so emotional!

The music, (in case you're wondering, the song in the trailer is Life Is Beautiful, by Vega 4) along with the images of the African cats taking care of their babies, nearly did me in. African Cats is a true story that takes places in, you guessed it, Africa. Right away, you know it's going to be a breathtakingly beautiful movie to watch, but what's even more amazing is that the movie is a true story.

The movie is narrated by one of my favourite actors, Samuel L. Jackson, and the story revolves around Mara, a little lion cub who strives to grow up with her mother's strength, (see, I'm tearing up already) spirit, and wisdom; Sita, a cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns; and Fang, a proud leader of the pride who defends his family from a rival lion and his sons.

I totally imagine The Lion King, only in real life. Of course, since this IS a Disney movie, I expect that we are all going to cry.

There are many wonderful perks to blogging, like receiving advanced screening passes to movies I know my children will love. When I was asked if I wanted to attend the advanced screening of African Cats, I said yes right away. My oldest son will be completely captivated by this movie, so we're definitely going to bring him. I think this movie is not suitable for my three year old, though, and knowing his attention span, (although he can watch Home Alone over and over again) we'll leave him home for this one.

African Cats is the third release from Disneynature—the first two, if you remember, were Earth, and Oceans. Both movies truly amazed me.

African Cats opens nationwide on April 22nd—Earth Day!

I've been given two family passes to the advanced screening of African Cats—a family four pass for Ottawa, taking place on April 18th at 7 p.m., and a family four pass for the Toronto screening, taking place on the same day, at the same time. (I'll email the details to the winners!)

If you would like to see African Cats a week before everyone else, just leave me a comment and I'll pick the winner Friday, April 15! (Just let me know if you want to go to the Ottawa or Toronto screening.)

Hakuna Matata!

Wearing an apron... but leaving on the heels!

2011-04-08T12:14:00.017-04:00

Last week, after breakfast, I baked a chocolate cake. After the measuring, pouring, and mixing were finished, I put it in the oven, set the timer, and looked at the clock on my kitchen wall.

"Oh, no! Kids! We have to leave RIGHT NOW for swimming lessons!"

I took the cake out of the oven, threw it away, and drove off to the Athletic Club with my family for Sunday swimming lessons. Almost every time I try to bake, or cook, something will go wrong. Without fail.

I'm not very domestic. I don't beat myself up over this, though—there are other things I excel at.

Although I'm no Martha Stewart in the kitchen, I do very much love food. That's the first step, right?

In my quest to become a better cook, I happily accepted the role of being a Life Made Delicious connector with General Mills. As soon as I heard the words 'easy recipes' I was on-board! Also, there are tons of healthy and easy-to-cook recipes for kids on their site, too.

In working with General Mills, I'm able to try out new and easy recipes my entire family can enjoy. A few days ago, I came home from work and was greeted with an amazing box of goodies from General Mills, filled with all sorts of food. My boys quickly dove in, picking their 'favourite' items, and started eating. Cheerios, Betty Crocker cake mix and icing, Green Giant veggies, Nature Valley granola bars, (my absolute favourite!) Old El Paso salsa and tortillas, and Fibre One bars and cereal—our pantry was stocked!

During the week, I'm fortunate, because although I'm stuck in an office all day, (okay, there are some perks to this—lunch dates with friends, hair appointments, and shopping trips over the lunch hour) my family takes care of my children. My parents, grandparents, and in-laws baby-sit, and since we're Greek, my children eat healthy, home-cooked meals five days a week.

On the weekend, though, I like to cook for my boys. I don't want them to have no memory of their mom in the kitchen, you know?

This weekend, I'm going to try the Garden Fresh Lasagna. Apparently, it can be ready in 30 minutes. That's less time than it takes to get a blow-dry!

The steps to prepare this meal didn't make me run away screaming from my computer, like some recipes do.

Let me speak 'cooking' to you. All you need is:

A package of lean (or extra lean) ground beef
2 1/2 cups hot water
1/2 cup milk
1 box Hamburger Helper Lasagna
1/2 tsp of dried oregano leaves
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1 tomato—chop, chop chop!
1 bell pepper, 1 zucchini—chop, chop, chop!
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Easy so far, right? Now, in a 10-inch skillet (I just call it a frying pan thingy) cook the beef until it's well, cooked. You know. Drain. Next! Stir in hot water, milk, uncooked pasta and sauce mix (from the Hamburger Helper box), oregano and garlic powder. Heat to boiling, while stirring. Then, reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 5 minutes, and keep stirring occasionally. Pop in your veggies and cheese! Cover, simmer, and remove from heat. Stir it up and... voila!

"KIDS! DINNER IS READY!"

Besides great dinner ideas, I'm excited to try baking some adorable Easter cupcakes.

There is no way I can screw these up. And I promise to post lots of pictures of the results!

Disclosure: I am part of the Life Made Delicious Blogger program and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.