This post is sponsored by Giant Tiger and while I was compensated for it, all opinions are my own.
When you are looking to save money, keep in the know about deals and discounts, or to find that particular item you are in need of, we often turn to technology for assistance.
It’s why we sign up for newsletters – so we can be reminded about deals and information, sent directly to our email.
But an easy-to-use app that offers all-in-one features in the palm of my hands is preferred (it saves me searching for a coupon code in my email while standing in line!)
Luckily, Giant Tiger has just launched their GT VIP App, their new loyalty program, in the Ottawa area.
I’ve downloaded it and it’s so easy to use (in fact, I set it all up while sitting in my car!). It connects me with the deals and discounts I’m looking for, and is convenient in a way that my email discount codes aren’t.
Weekly flyers are accessible via the App and I can even launch their online shopping site from it (you’ll read why this is useful for me below!)
By downloading the GT VIP App, you’ll also have access to all of this! Your App will have your unique barcode to scan in store too.
After easily downloading the App and using it at the check out, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a $5 bonus coupon in my email as well because I was a new email subscriber!
Giant Tiger is already providing you with savings for your family’s most-needed and wanted items. Whether you are looking for clothing that is fashionable or functional, home decor, gifts, or groceries (including fresh produce), Giant Tiger is a one-stop shopping experience.
If you follow me on social media, you may remember how pleasantly surprised I was last year when my son was re-decorating his room and we ended up finding all of the perfect bedding at Giant Tiger. He settled on an upscale, rustic buffalo plaid set that reminded him of Parc Omega and Chateau Montebello. He still loves his choices.
Recently, I was also able to get myself some new summer items and clothing which were much needed.
Then, I posted a picture of this dress on Instagram Stories and got quite a few responses – you clearly liked it on me (thank you!) Well, this dress is from Giant Tiger!
I love this dress so much, I am thinking about getting another similar to it. And if the store doesn’t have my size in other styles or colours, I can order online and have it sent to my closest Giant Tiger store. Isn’t that easy shopping?
I love that now that I’m signed up for the GT VIP App I receive emails with weekly new offers.
Other perks include GT VIP only contests and partner deals!
Want to start saving and have access to this easy shopping App yourself? Download the GT VIP App in your Apple app store or Google app store.
You can also find more information on the Giant Tiger GT VIP App website, including additional program details, benefits and a list of which Ottawa and Ottawa area stores are currently participating as they launch the program.
If you do go shopping, I’d love for you to share a picture on social media and tag me (@bitofmomsense) and Giant Tiger so we can see your new finds!
The Shenkman Arts Centre Summer Series returns to bring you mini concerts all summer long.
Every Thursday, enjoy a different performance at Shenkman Arts Centre at 12:30 pm. The entire family can head out to experience something unique and free.
I love outdoor music in the summer, and I think kids of all ages should be exposed to it! It’s even more special when there is so much cultural diversity happening!
Did you know Attractions Ontario has a list of coupons and deals to use all summer long?
There are a variety of popular tourist and stay-cation spots families love to hit across Ontario and luckily, you can save on your outings using the Attractions Ontario Coupons.
These include special savings on some of the most popular places for families to visit.
A few deals that caught my eye:
Bird Kingdom in Niagara Falls (I’ve written about why we love it!) and you can save $3 a ticket.
Save $2 on regular priced admission to the Canada Nature Museum which is located right here in Ottawa! (There’s also a discount to one of our other favourite places, the National Gallery)
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Toronto offers savings of up to 20% for a family of four.
There’s also a discount for the CN Tower!
You can browse all of the discounts on the Attractions Ontario Website to plan your summer adventures and save some money!
When I solo travel, I almost always take a carry-on with me if possible. Longer conferences and trips may require me to check a bag, but as time has gone on, and prices for checked bags have gone up, I’ve become more and more determined to pack a carry on.
But for the sake of my fellow business travellers, or those able to take solo trips or couple-only trips and don’t require the same gear the kids bring along, I have learned some tips.
In truth, even though I often now travel by train for many business meetings, I still try to bring only a carry-on. I’m often running around Toronto, or hauling it up stairs at Go Stations, and don’t want a larger bag.
My biggest accomplishment in this endeavour came last year when I had two conferences to attended, literally back to back. I was travelling into Toronto for the Blissdom Canada Conference, was attending afternoon sessions, an evening party, followed by more sessions the next day AND then was flying out of Toronto that evening to land in Moncton to speak on the Saturday. Then would fly home on Sunday. Phew. Got all that?
But. I did it with a carry-on.
So what are some of my carry-on travel secrets?
First of all, determine if you can get away with just a carry-on. And I don’t mean ‘can you sacrifice all six pairs of shoes’ I mean, realistically, do you need a bigger bag?
When I went to the Mom 2.0 conference last year in Los Angeles, I was there for 5 days, with special events and outings, plus heat to contend with, so I brought the larger bag. Also, if you plan on getting wine, or other items that need to be checked after you travel, you’ll want the bigger bag.
Once you determine if you can get away with just a carry-on (without paying for extra weight!) try these tips:
Have the right luggage
We finally updated our family luggage a couple of years ago after using the same set since before we were married. Now, the carry-on is up-to-date in sizing for when I fly, it’s light, hard shelled, and has those wheels that spin easily. This means when I’m by myself, I can get around, lift it up, and move it easily.
Bring clothing that can be worn more than once
We typically wear hoodies, jackets and jeans more than once before we wash them, so why would this be any different when we travel?
I get it, we always worry that something will spill on our clothes, but realistically, there are many items like our sweaters and pants that can be worn multiple times in our trip.
Hoodies become like jackets anyway, so plan to wear them more than once. Plus, I always layer on the plane, so a big heavy hoodie can be worn to keep me cozy without taking up precious luggage room.
I own a pair of Encircled Dressy Sweat pants, and I love them (I scored a sample sale last Fall, although I think I could have gotten the small instead of medium, but maybe the extra room is why I love them ha). These pants were worn three times on our trip to Disney and we were there a week. There was never an issue. I almost always wear them on travel days, plus when I pair them with heels, they go from super casual travel pants to girl-on-the-town chic.
Same pants, three different looks. These were all on different trips, but you could see how easy it would be to repeat wearing them and switch up my day/travel look with a ‘going for drinks’ outfit.
They also get bonus points because they have pockets. I find travelling with leggings less convenient because I can’t tuck my phone or random things quickly in my pocket.
Often, my day-of travel clothes don’t get re-worn (unless it’s a multi-purpose item, see below), because I’ve been flying/travelling/eating/sleeping/sweating in them for a good part of the day.
Wear clothing on the plane that is multi-purpose
A large scarf becomes a blanket, a pillow, a cardigan, and in the case of my Chrysalis Cardi Wrap from Encircled, a dress as well as a scarf. Having these sort of items on hand not only helps reduce what’s in your luggage, but also come in handy over and over again.
Yes, these two items are the same! I wore the Cardi as a shawl for travel, and a dress for a party!
Be realistic about shoes
Sorry folks, but you don’t need as many as you think. You want options, I get that. But it’s time to be realistic. I always wear my cute running shoes on the train or plane for comfort, no matter the season (I cannot deal with bare feet when travelling) but in my bag are usually one heel, a flat, and a flip flop. Sometimes, I’ll sneak in the extra heels. And you know what? If you are clever about how you pack the other stuff, you should be able to tuck in extra shoes if need be.
Bring a back pack or large purse
I love having a back pack when travelling, especially with the kids. It gives me the hands free options I need. When travelling for work, a laptop bag or large purse helps keep notebooks, my scarf and everything else in one spot. I do find back packs work best for my shoulders though!
Also, pack a smaller purse for dinner out or the cocktail reception you have to go to. I hate dragging along my big bag everywhere, unless it’s at the conference or business meeting where I will be sitting for a bit anyway.
Tip: Tuck a folded reusable bag in your purse or bookbag as well, just in case you need to throw some stuff in there if your carry-on is a pinch too heavy!
One last thing about your bag, have a place where you are keeping your important travel documents. When we travel as a family, Andy handles all of this, so when I’m solo, I have to pay special attention to keeping track of things! A small folder or zipped back in my purse or back pack helps.
Watch those carry-on liquids!
One of the biggest issues with carry-on is the liquids that you can take. It’s worth investing in reusable, small bottles for your favourite shampoo, lotions, face cream and more so you always have travel sized liquids ready to go.
In my purse, on a day-to-day basis, I keep some things like a travel toothbrush, some makeup, deodorant and other items. So when I travel, that’s mini make up bag of goodies comes with me anyway. Then I just pack along my travel toiletry bag with the other stuff I need. Most hotels have hair dryers, so I skip hauling that, and just bring my hair straightener.
Tip: Invest in a great toiletry bag! It has been so beneficial to have a good one! They hold more stuff, take up less room and are easy to pop in and out of your luggage.
The biggest thing I’ve learned over the years is that I typically don’t need as much as I anticipate and even if I did need something, I can just buy it as a worst case scenario.
Do you have travel tips? I definitely feel like I’m missing something!
You’re child’s mission, should they choose to accept it, is to join the Diefenbunker’s Spy Camp in Ottawa this summer!
This post is in partnership with the Diefenbunk, a blog advertiser
Don’t worry if you haven’t found a perfect summer camp for your child this summer in Ottawa because I’m about to share with you an amazing opportunity!
The Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum is once again offering summer camps for kids aged 6-12 throughout the summer.
If you haven’t been to the Diefenbunker before, it’s a former functional shelter from the 1960s, created during the cold war, that is now a museum and blast from the past. It’s a stunning and chilling area that captures a particular part of our history and reminds us of our past while educating us. It really is fascinating to visit.
There are often special events and activities happening at Diefenbunker, and this summer, your kids can become even more familiar with it, should they choose to accept this mission.
Each week is a different theme that ties into their spy training. They may learn about:
What makes a good spy – they’ll discover the art of espionage with training in a variety of activities.
The art of disguise – sometimes, spies have to go undercover, or blend into their surroundings.
Making and breaking codes – spies will solve puzzles and use their brain to try and find a break in the case.
and the science behind spying – here’s how to uncover finger prints and more!
Visit the Diefenbunker website for details about what each of these activities entail.
The camp is divided by age (6-9 year olds, 10-12 year olds) and costs $250 per week and run from 9:30-3:30 Monday-Friday (before and after care is available).
The newly trained agents will be working hard to help capture the notorious Agent X! (I won’t lie, I love a great back story to build on and play around with! I think kids will love it too!)
Want more information about registering your child for Spy Camp at Diefenbunker this summer? Visit their website. Registration is still available.
This post is sponsored by the City of Ottawa, a blog advertiser
Tickets are now on sale for the amazing new season of music, dance, theatre and more at Meridian Theatres at Centrepointe.
I’ve been to the theatre quite a few times with my kids, Andy and with friends, in different capacities. Sometimes, I’ve had family-friendly show tickets given to me by the City to check it out, and other times I’ve bought tickets because there are so many events to attend as a family, date night, girls night out and more! It’s such a nice theatre.
The new line up for the 2019/2020 season is stacked with even more great shows!
The first one I have to tell you about is Llama Llama Live! On Stage!!! Yes, from the popular kids books. I expect this will be a hit with kids (and parents) so if you are interested, tickets are now available.
The Anne of Green Gables ballet will put a unique twist (and turn) on the story that so many Canadians know and love. This is a full-length ballet and an evening show so it may be more for older kiddos.
Another one to bookmark is Shaun Majumder! I would imagine this show will be perfect for date night! That’s coming up in February.
And while this is certainly not an exhaustive list, another series that really caught my attention is the ‘Tea with…’ series like the Tea with a side of Holly holiday performance or Tea with a Lump of Movies in 2020. Four classical musicians perform their interpretations on music you know and love, and tea and treats are served after the performance.
There are so many more shows coming up!
The entire 2019/2020 schedule is available online.
Wondering about the new season at Shenkman Arts Centre? I am too! But don’t worry, that information is coming in early June!
Today, May 23, Andy and I are celebrating 15 years of marriage. It feels like a big number, and yet, it feels like time has flown by in many ways.
A couple of kids later, job changes, major illness, a house that we have made our home for 15 years as well, and plenty of lessons along the way, I couldn’t imagine this time with anyone else.
I’ve written in celebration of our anniversary before, and have indicated that I can’t really pin point the secret to a lasting marriage because I’m realistic enough to not pretend I’m in one of the romance novels that I read and always have a happy ending.
But so far, our journey has been been full of heart, love and I think I can currently safely say that we are both happy.
If I could be a little extra gushy for a moment, Andy has been the person I’ve turned to for over 15 years, in good and bad, and who’s presence alone gives me peace. It’s a powerful thing for another human being to have that much influence on me, I get that can also be a scary scenario, but I can’t tell you the amount of comfort I get from knowing he’s by my side.
As the years have gone by, we’ve learned a few key lessons I think that have helped us grow together.
Here are some things about marriage I’ve learned over the years that I think has contributed to our happiness.
Communication is key
This may seem like a no brainer, but the fact is that communicating is so crucial. This means sharing the good, the bad and the ugly. It means not holding in feelings because you fear hurting the other person, but you have to open up or else you’ll build resentment.
Communication should come from a place of kindness.
There are times when you have to pick your battles, but don’t step away from something you believe in or need the other person to know if it is important to you.
And yes, communication is also important in the bedroom. It’s way more fun that way.
Don’t be mean and fight fair
One thing that I’ve noticed over the years is our ability as a couple to fight fairly. We aren’t mean to each other, even if we are super frustrated. We keep our words honest but not malicious and we don’t say things we regret or that can hurt the other. That helps and does make a difference. We also give each other space to cool off rather than pushing into more of a fight.
Make time for each other
You may already know about my sacred Wine Fridays, a tradition we started when we first had a newborn. Friday night after work remains our catch up night. Over a couple of glasses of wine, we reconnect, usually on the couch while the kids play (or slept when they were little) and no matter how busy the week is, we know we’ll come back together then to connect.
Be yourself
I was 21 years old when we started dating, and while I am still ME after all of these years, I know that I’m not the same 21 year old I was then (as expected). And my growth, both of our growth as humans, has been a welcome addition to our relationship. We are better people, and our own selves, but we’ve grown together and respect who the other person is.
Laugh
Look, this is a big one for us. If we can’t be silly, or laugh together, then all of the hard stuff feels heavier. Besides, I’m hilarious, he can’t help but laugh.
Happy Anniversary Andy. Here’s to many more years of laughter and love.
This post is in partnership with blog advertiser Sandra Butler, Beauty Counter.
The spring is the perfect time to examine your beauty and skin care routine. As the trees bloom and the flowers blossom, this time of year sparks renewal all around. The change of season can often create changes to our skin too.
As many long time readers know, I’ve made switches to my own beauty products many years ago.
It was a slow process but one that I am thrilled with.
Paired with the fact that my skin also changes with age, I take new product hunting seriously. I don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all approach.
When my friend Sandra Butler told me about the work she’s doing with Beauty Counter, I was intrigued. The first thing I did was check the products on EWG’s Skin Deep data base to determine what their review of the ingredients list was. It checked out green so I knew that the safer ingredients I look for were in the products.
In particular, I was interested in the Beauty Counter skin care line. I have been a huge advocate for creams and lotions for years, so when Sandra gave me the chance to test out some of the products, I jumped at the chance.
After using them for over a week, I am really happy with the products.
The Adaptive Body Moisturizer after a shower was hydrating and not greasy. The Eye Rescue Cream is meant to brighten, and these tired mama eyes could use the brightening. And the Recovery Sleeping Cream helps revive skin overnight.
I have now purchased the eye cream for myself and I’m looking forward to incorporating it into my daily routine. Now that I’ve tried the sleep cream I actually wonder if I should have purchased it first! I really like how it goes on at night and especially on my neck and chest so that’s probably going to be my next purchase.
As with all products, you may want to test out which ones are best for you and feel good on your skin. Sandra can help chat with you to answer questions.
In addition to their skin care products, there is a children’s and baby line of bath products and lotions as well as make up (with gorgeous looking lipsticks and a brow gel that has many people talking)
The other recommendation I have is to join Sandra’s online Facebook Group where she shares product information as well as self-care and beauty tips and articles.
She’s also in the Ottawa area so you can arrange to try some products to. From time to time she also hosts events like the upcoming event at Cafe Latte Cino on May 29. All are welcome!
Thanks Sandra for sharing these products with me. I can’t wait to try some more!
A note from me: When my son asked to write an article for the blog, and pitched his take on the Canadian History Hall at the Canadian History Museum, I was happy to encourage his writing and time to reflect. Turns out, he had great things to say about it and with many helpful details. So today, please enjoy his guest post below!
Hello historians, are you wondering where to get more information about Canada? Well, this is your guide. Today, we’ll be diving into the Canada History Hall.
Where Is Canadian History Hall?
The Canadian History Hall is located in the Canadian History Museum in Ottawa. It is linked to the Canadian War Museum, which is very close the neighboring museum (editor’s note: You can get a duo pass/membership to both of these museums and Canada History Hall is included with your regular History Museum admission). You’ll have to take a quick walk to some escalators to enter the hall. There, you’re free to go.
What Is Canadian History Hall?
The Canadian History Hall is a journey through canadian history. It takes you from 70000 BCE all the way to present times.
Yes, you heard correctly, 70000 BCE. Our history is very long and will make the journey very enjoyable.
Now, here’s my take on this museum. It is very detailed. It is so detailed I think that a person with no knowledge of our history could come out of the hall with enough knowledge to name our prime ministers in order. Why? Because the museum takes around 2 hours at least to get through if you read the shortest bit.
If you’re willing to go the historian way however, you could spend 8 hours or your whole day re-reading or admiring the visuals.
Yes, don’t worry, the museum is not only words and documents, it has enough pictures and interactive objects that can keep you busy, to entertain younger guests.
Please note that you won’t get the full experience without reading though.
But, nonetheless, the architects and builders did do a fantastic job with building, for instance, the church in the 1800s times.
But, the writers also did tell us about dark history too. They do tell us about awful things our ancestors and governors did to first peoples living in Canada before us. It is important to recognize these moments.
Some of the parts I found the most engaging were the New-France era and the french exploration of Canada. The artifacts and other designs are interesting and worth a look.
Also, they did a good job with the 1800s which discussed war and Confederation. They did have artifacts there as well and other replicas of what early settlers would use during this time. I found it interesting that some the artifacts there made me think of what it would’ve been like then and how easy life is now.
Speaking of now, the modern section is also very cool to experience. It features more pictures than artifacts but that makes it a bit easier to keep up with. Especially since cameras were starting to be popular around said time period. I do think that the more time you spend in New France though, since there is a lot to learn and a lot to see. I personally found the other sections not as engaging as New France. Also, since New France is the beginning of early European settlement in Canada, this will make the other sections make more sense.
It’s like in a movie series. You can’t watch the last movie in the series first, or you won’t understand what happened before it.
Overall the Canadian History Hall is a great place to learn about Canada if you haven’t already. And don’t worry, you don’t need to know about all of our history before you get there, Or have to read every single line. The visuals are great, and the structures look amazing. It is a well worth experience for any casual learner or the most experienced historian.
This post is in partnership with blog advertiser The City of Ottawa
Still wondering about summer camps for your kids? There are many options across the city, but choosing something that fits your location, budget and your child’s interest may feel overwhelming.
The City of Ottawa and the arts centres like the Shenkman Arts Centre and the Nepean Creative Arts Centre, offer unique and exciting camp programming all summer long.
To help get you started, I’m sharing 7 camps that caught my eye that I think kids will be happy to attend!
Although not included in my list, I want to mention that not all camps are full days, so if you want to send your kiddo for only a half day because they aren’t ready for full time or you aren’t looking for full day care, you do have options!
Also, there are so many options for basically every sport, art and activity you can imagine. I decided to focus on ones that are so unique and some that absolutely shocked me that they even exist (making them seem even more fun!)
All camps can be discovered in this guide. I didn’t want to link to specific weeks because each camp may be offered at different locations and different weeks.
My kids are obsessed with their scooters (and I don’t blame them, they are a lot of fun!) so a scootering camp where kids can learn awesome tricks and moves (plus get in a lot of exercise?) It sounds pretty great.
Board and Table Top Gaming Camp
The kids get to make their own board games, from concept to actual creation and then play it!
Musical Theatre Camp
Time to put all of their love for live action plays or Disney movies to the test while they learn choreography, singing and more.
Director’s Cut: I wanna rock
Your kids will act in and create music videos. I think all of us did this in our basements when we were preteens didn’t we? I love this twist on traditional movie making and filming.
Camping 101
Yes, there is a camp about outdoor camping. If you have been itching to use a trailer or book a camp site, have your kids learn the skills they need before you go!
Fortnite Camp
This camp isn’t what you are expecting. While it’s themed around the very popular online game, it’s actually Fortnite themed offline. Kids will learn how to create shelters and have a Nerf-gun battle! I love when we can take games and their online interests offline in unique ways.
Zombie Adventure
Your creative kids will love immersing themselves into the role play adventure of Zombie camp. They’ll need to learn how to survive as researchers and members of a special ops team, while developing surviving skills and defense systems with Nerf Guns and Archery.
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