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8 Min Read November 21, 2018 5 Replies

The 2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

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best gifts for kids 2018

Here it is! The 2018 Gift Guide for Kids by A Little Bit of Momsense!

I can’t believe I have been sharing these since 2009! You can find all of my previous gift guides at this link – and they are worth browsing because many of those ideas are still ones I recommend!

These are the gifts that will stand out this year – the 2018 Holiday Gift Guide for kids by @bitofmomsense

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So what’s up with this gift guide?

Simple. This is a list of ideas that I’m sharing, from one parent to another, for those of your who need an idea for someone in your family, a friend’s child, a niece or nephew that is hard to buy for and so on.

There is no way to get on the gift guide unless I think the item is super neat/would be fun/I want to give to someone myself. That means it’s unsponsored. Some items are from my partners or have been given to me, but if they are here it’s because I think they deserve to be.

As always, the gift guide has grown with my own kids so I’m shopping for a 9 and 12 year old this year BUT I have nieces and nephews and kids in my life who are between the ages of 2 years old and 20 years old, so I get it. All ideas are needed.

As I mentioned, you can browse my previous gift guides too because there are some pretty stellar recommendations on there (in fact, I’m going to do a round up of the top 10 gifts that really had staying power in this house!)

Please enjoy the guide, and as always, if you need some extra help, I am happy to be a little elf helper and provide you with even more suggestions – just drop me a comment, a message on social media or an email!

2018 Gift Guide for Kids

Unicorn head band game

unicorn head band game

Someone in our extended family is getting this for Christmas, and the joke is that we are waiting to see how long before the adults get involved. Not only is this a game smaller kiddos can play, but it’s one the entire family can try. We anticipate a lot of laughs!

Where to buy it: Chapters, Tag Along Toys (in Ottawa)

Milk and Sass

Both my kids are pre-teens, and I’m often asked about this age group. One thing I really like that I think is the perfect stocking stuffer for pre-teens and teens is the Milk and Sass hairbrush and compact mirror. Handy to keep in their lockers or bookbags for before-pictures at school, or when the older kids want to skip over hat hair in the morning. I love the look and colours of the design. It detangles and is great for travel.

Where to buy: https://www.milkandsass.com/shop/

World Changing Kids

I love the local work that World Changing Kids is doing, but now anyone across the country can encourage family members to get involved in their own neighbourhoods with this guide to kindness. There is a years worth of kind activities for your family to do.

Where to buy: World Changing Kids, Tag Along Toys

‘Who Was’ Books

There are always books that I can recommend for kids, and like previous years when the Weird, but True books were a huge hit, the Who Was series is a massive go-to for my eldest who loves non-fiction reads. These kid-friendly historic explanations and biographies are really interesting.

Where to buy them: Chapters

Exploding Kittens

This was one of our family board games from Christmas last year and it has proven to be a huge hit. We travel with it too so that we can play at the cottage in PEI. Again, it’s another game that’s perfect for the kids but is a lot of fun for parents too.

Where to buy it: Chapters, Mrs. Tiggy Winkles

Kids Made Modern Craft Set

My daughter received this craft set for her birthday a couple of years ago and it’s amazing. There seem to be two different styles available, but the basic principle is the same: It includes a variety of pipe cleaners, felt, sewing needles, beads, glue and more. This is THE box she uses when she wants to create and craft and we love it.

Where to buy it: Well.ca, Chapters

Tattly

Again, this feels like one of those things for when the kids get older and want to express themselves but that parents can get behind. These are perfect stocking stuffers too! Artistically designed, these temporary tattoos are gorgeous and they are made of vegetable ink and last about 2-4 days.

Where to buy them: terra20.com 

Bake Shop

This was another birthday present that proved to be so much fun. If you have a child who is obsessed with things that are ‘cute’ this may be just for them. It is great for kiddos that are a bit older (6+, although your 9 year olds will be able to do them independently) and the kids make sweet baked items out of soft clay (that eventually dries).

Where to buy it: Scholastic, Chapters, many places where Klutz products are sold

Slime kit

Sorry parents, don’t tell me how much you hate slime. We all hate slime, it’s not our thing. But I do love how these slime kits come with everything the kids need to make their own slime – bowls, measuring spoons, etc, without having to worry about going through our cupboards. The clean up is pretty easy and I like this better than trying to search for my old contact lense solution.

Where to buy: Most places where slime is sold (Chapters, Toys R Us etc)

Antsy Pants Play Sets

I almost added this to my gift guide last year, but then found out that they weren’t available in Canada yet. However, they are now available at Chapters! Yay! This is such a fun looking set (and I was lucky enough that they sent me one – I will have very happy nieces this Christmas!). There are connectors that make stands and play sets, then additional covers to customize the scene (like a lemonade stand or farmers’ market).

This is one of those things that I know would have been under my tree if my kids were younger. You buy the pole starter set, then you can buy covers to enter into a make believe world!

Where to buy them: Chapters

Cuddly Sloth

If you are buying a gift for a new little one in your life, Santa can give this adorable stuffed sloth and it will be cherished for years to come. Just looking at it makes me smile and I know we still have some of our little stuffies from when the kids were babies.

Where to buy: Chapters

Tornado Tower

You’ll notice my list doesn’t include a lot of plastic toys, but the reality is that every year we end up gifting some because there are some really neat ones (or just trendy ones that the kids want, let’s be honest). But when I saw this STEM focused Little Tikes Tornado Tower a few months ago, I knew I wanted to share it on my list. I love anything that encourages STEM, but starting them young is great too!

Where to buy: Most places Little Tikes is sold like Chapters or Toys R Us.

PIN IT FOR LATER

 

 

4 Min Read November 22, 2017 No Reply

Gifts with Meaning at Terra20

Shopping

 

The main reason why I love buying gifts and giving gifts is because I adore trying to find something that I think the other person will just love. Not only love, but hopefully feel something – whether it’s sentiment, excitement or laughter. I love the reaction and it warms my heart. It’s why I spend so long searching, hunting and finding the right gift.

In addition, when the gifts I buy also happen to be meaningful, it means that my heart is full too. Whether it’s fair trade, or made locally, or reduces our environment impact, those gifts with meaning are just as important.

I recently went shopping at terra20 (who is a blog advertiser,but I am a customer there. A lot.) And filled a bag with household items we needed, plus a few gifts that are tucked away. I also was on the look out in the store and online for meaningful gifts that you may enjoy giving this holiday season.

Give gifts with meaning this holiday season. Here are some options from @exploreterra20 via @bitofmomsense

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Here are a few terra20 items that you’ll be happy to give, and why they are so meaningful.

This Gorgeous Glass Ornament

I snapped this photo in the store and you’ll be mesmerized by the options if you go in too. You can also find a beautiful snowflake online. These glass blown ornaments by Kitras are made by a family owned company in Fergus, Ontario using recycled glass so you can feel good about the source.

 

A lovely pouch made from recycled material

1% of sales from these pouches by Blue Q are donated back to environmental causes. I like this travel themed pouch.

bonus: Want to really WOW? Put something like a hotel reservation or travel gift card in the pouch! (HINT)

Barefoot Venus Bath and Body products

I know, I know, Barefoot Venus is always on my list for basically everything, but I love it and buy their stuff all the time. A portion of the proceeds from the Ginger Snap Holiday line will be donated to grassroots organizations that help families and individuals living with autism. So you can feel good about giving this gift.

This massage oil is just what a tired mama needs!

Nova Scotia Fisherman Travel Set

I love gift packs. They always look like such a complete gift, plus, often have smaller sizes of products to try and potentially fall in love with them. This travel set includes lotion, lip balm, rescue balm and soap.

Plus, Nova Scotia Fisherman a portion of each sale donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada. Your earth-loving friend will love this!

A Beauty Gift Pack

I love the look of this gift set, plus, to be honest, I love the thought of getting new makeup to try as a gift. Makeup can sometimes feel like an indulgence so spoil that person in your life who wants to try a new shade of lipstick but may not want to splurge. They’ll also love that it’s toxic free, cruelty free, and gluten free. Saint Cosmetics are made in Canada and through a portion of their sales they donate to Interval House.

 

This holiday season, think about the meaning behind each gift. Whether it’s from a local shop owner, a Canadian artisan, or if it supports your environmental values, gift giving can truly be made more special thanks to meaningful, thoughtful presents. terra20 has many eco-friendly, unique gifts to give everyone on your list!

 

disclosure: terra20 is a blog advertiser. All opinions are my own. And yes, I want all of these items on the list! 

 

 

1 Min Read June 27, 2017 No Reply

Have you been to Tag Along Toys lately?

Shopping

It’s no secret that I love Tag Along Toys. From the selection of arts and crafts, to science kits, to sweet gifts for all the kids in my life, it’s my go-to toy store. A couple of years ago when they opened a new location on Bank Street I was thrilled. It was a bit closer which of course made everything so much easier for me! But when I learned that they had renovated and updated the space in Kanata, I naturally wanted to go check it out.

As always the space remains a welcoming place to shop with the friendly service that we’ve all come to know from Tag Along Toys. While the space is a bit smaller, the removal of some shelving units has opened up a lot of the shelves to make it even easier to find all of the items you are looking for. They’ve been able to bring in more crafts, and more LEGO selection (two very popular areas.)

I love the spaces near the window and the check out area with loot bag items and small add-on gifts that are so unique and interesting!

As always, Tag Along offers free gift wrapping, will assist in creating loot bags for your party if you need them to, and has items for babies all the way up to teens and the young at heart.

Now’s a great time to check out the new layout in Kanata, or swing by the Bank Street location for your next birthday gift or outdoor toy you need now that the nice weather is here.

PS: A chocolate shop has opened up beside them. Now I have even MORE reason to head back out to Kanata!

Happy shopping!

 

*Tag Along Toys is a blog advertiser

1 Min Read February 7, 2017 No Reply

How I received FREE product at terra20 (and you can too!)

Shopping

Did you know that if you register a shopping account with terra20, you earn points during the year, and then in the first part of the next year those points become shopping dollars?

That’s exactly how I earned $80 in 2016 that I was able to use in January at the store to restock my body lotion, hair supplies, deodorant and more! How great is that?

It’s easy to register (online or in person) for the terra20 Registered Guest Rewards and each time you check out in store an associate will ask you if you have an account. Then you accumulate a return if you spend over $200 in the year. It works online too (which is handy when I can’t make it into the store! Plus, they have free shipping on orders over $49, and at times, they offer Free shipping!)

The credit you receive is based on 10% of your spending from the previous year if you spend between $200 and $400, and 15% when you spend over $400.

The full conditions and more information can be found on their website.

This program is a win-win for me. I shop at terra20 throughout the year for products for the entire family, gifts and more, and then at the beginning of a new year, I receive money back to save on my next purchase. That’s something I can get behind!

 

 

terra20 is a blog advertiser

 

5 Min Read January 9, 2017 2 Replies

Cooking and Money saving tips for the New Year

Kitchen Tips, Shopping

Now that the holidays are over and the New Year is here, many of us are looking at January as a month to ‘reduce’. It may be a reduction of the ‘stuff’ that’s been in the house (from new toys to decorations), it may be a reduction of stress levels or it could be the reduction of our household bills. Saving money at the grocery check-out, and in our kitchens, is one way that we can get our budgets back on track.

Every year I commit to reviewing our grocery budget. I know how fortunate we are that we can always put food on our table, but there are still places that we can save by reducing the waste, increasing our planning and ensuring that the staples are well stocked. Here are some tips that I use to help me save money on my grocery bill. This post is serving as a timely reminder for me as I enter 2017 and need to get back into a regular meal routine. The holidays are tricky for that!

Cook in Bulk

There are always some recipes that can easily be doubled or tripled with very little extra effort, and often little additional expense. Pasta is a good example. You’ll be standing over the stove while the water boils and cooks the pasta anyway, so you might as well make extra.  I like making larger batches of stew and soup because I can add a lot of extra inexpensive veggies and a little more protein and make it stretch further.

Freeze meals

Speaking of the freezer, this is one of my favourite ways to not only have meals ready to go, but also ensure that the food gets eaten. When I make a giant batch of stew and we have it on Monday night, then leftovers Tuesday, if there is still some after that, I pop it in the freezer. Sometimes the portions are enough for a future meal as a family, other times they make for an easy weekday lunch.

 

I also find that having meals in the freezer is helpful when we are heading into a busy week. If we are getting ready to travel, or heading to and from kids’ activities, or when I’m swamped with meetings, I know we can still enjoy a hot meal that night.

Go Meatless

There are some meals that are hard to beat when it comes to meat – I love a good burger for example. And every so often, I just want bacon. But we don’t eat meat every night of the week. Some nights we substitute red meat or pork for fish, but often we still end up with a vegetarian meal at some point during the week. However, that doesn’t mean we aren’t eating a delicious, complete meal. There are many amazing vegetarian or meatless meals available to try. For example, I can make bean enchiladas using canned beans that I get on sale and some fairly inexpensive toppings (these make a lot and they’re also freezable!). I still want everyone to feel full and have a balanced meal that includes protein, but meat doesn’t always have to be the star. Reach for the eggs, beans or other alternatives.

One item can create many meals

I love when I get a beautiful beef or pork roast on sale. This means that I can typically get at least 2, if not three meals out of it, without having to be boring. A beef roast on Monday night becomes tacos on Tuesday and a pot pie on Wednesday (or, the leftovers get chopped up and put in the freezer!)

Wash and Chop

Food waste is something we need to get a better handle on in this house. When some fruit and veggies or containers get put in the bottom of the fridge, we don’t see them and miss the expiry dates. Oftentimes, fruit and veggies need to be washed and chopped for convenience, otherwise, we don’t grab them as readily for lunches or snacks. I notice a really big difference in our waste reduction when we wash and precut veggies and fruit. It makes it easier for us to pack lunches or serve them as a side with a meal and the kids have more access to them. It’s usually easiest to do this right after you get back from grocery shopping.

Browse the Flyers

I often don’t decide on meal options (i.e., I don’t meal plan far in advance, I wing it when I go shopping) until I’ve looked at the flyers to see the sales. Then you can decide on what you meal plan or best buys for the week may be.

I am hoping that this year we will continue to eat healthily, heartily and still save some money on our grocery budget. January is a good time to get back on track after a very busy, more expensive month in December from all the entertaining and celebrating over the holidays.

Do you try to make eating or budget changes in January, too, that are sustainable year round?

 

 

 

7 Min Read November 20, 2016 No Reply

2016 Gift Guide for kids

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It’s that time of year! The time when my kids are anticipating the arrival of our Elf on the Shelf, when they are finalizing lists to Santa, when I’m putting on Christmas music and when Andy is trying to convince me to wait just a little bit longer before decorating.

And, it’s the time of year when I share my gift guide! Each year, I share with you a gift guide of gifts for kids that I have purchased for my own kids, have in my house already or just cool gifts that I think kids would love.

About this Gift Guide

The list is not sponsored (although some of my blog advertisers and previous partners appear here, because they have great stuff!) and the list has grown with my own children. If you have younger kids and want to know some additional ideas, my previous gift guides have fun toys and goodies that are still used in our house (I’ve included links below), or message me and I’ll share some gifts I’ve found for nieces and nephews!

As always, I encourage you to check out your local shops for some items, but I’ve included links to some places where you can find them online as well!

And now, get your pens and paper out to write down you list!

Here it is! The 2016 Gift Guide from @bitofmomsense with fun gift ideas for the kids in your life

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Here’s the 2016 A Little Bit of Momsense Gift Guide!

Kayak Magazine

I wrote about Kayak a few months ago. Once again, my son was gifted a subscription for his birthday and he’s thrilled. I think it would make a great gift for kids, especially if you are gifting it to someone out of town or who you don’t see often.

kayak magazine

Board Games

I couldn’t narrow down just one recommendation. We, like a lot of families, have a lot of board games and every year we add to the collection. Santa likes to bring our family a family board game as a gift.

If your kids are younger, I recommend starting out with Jenga. It’s something that they can play with parents, or just use the blocks to build. I also love the game Zingo which we got years ago (and the kids love it too!).

For older kids, we loved playing Monopoly Empire (and will soon be playing it more after Christmas!) and recently we got Jeopardy! That one is definitely for older kids but my 10 year old is excited to play with us. There’s even a travel edition!

Lastly, if you haven’t played Ticket to Ride, that’s a fantastic game for the family. My youngest joins a team for the time being, but my eldest plays on his own with us. It’s a lot of fun!

ticket-to-ride

Maplelea Girls Dolls and/or accessories

I recently worked on a campaign with Maplelea Girls. My daughter got one last year from a campaign and has been asking for add-ons since. Last Christmas, she received a bird friend and some outfits. This year, it sounds like more outfits are on her Santa list. I like that there are accessories no matter what your child’s interests – hockey, gymnastics, horse back riding etc.

leonie maplelea doll skating

Create your own Craft box

I loved getting craft items as a kid, and now my kids receive something each year. There are many ready-to-go sets that are perfect for gift giving, but if you aren’t sure what someone may like, build your own! Think about supplying canvases, water colour paper (it’s way better than construction paper or printer paper!), Washi tape, googly eyes (there are never enough!) and other items that may not be common in craft kids at home. Add a really great set of markers – my daughter never can get enough!

colouring markers

Bloxels

How about a game where the kids make up their own character or world offline, then upload it and build a game online? That’s why I think my kids are going to love Bloxels. We are a family that loves video games, but being able to take them offline is something that I think is great too! I found ours at Tag Along Toys.

 

A photo posted by Bloxels (@bloxels) on

Invent the Greatest Board Game

Do your kids every try to make their own board game or game up? I love that this kit has pieces that they can create an actual game! Three cheers for creativity! Check out your local toy store to see if they have it (we got one at Tag Along Toys.)

board game

Stikbot Studio Pro

Along with an App, this set uses a green screen to get the characters into whatever scene the kids want. My eldest especially is already into stop motion but now with the green screen he’ll be able to take his creativity to the next level!

stikbot

Ten Thousand Villages Recycling truck

I love the toys at Ten Thousand Villages. They are so creative! This wooden recycling truck caught my eye the last time I was in there. I always have a soft spot for cute wooden toys.

recycling-truck-sorting-toy

Crayola Shopkins stamp maker

I’ve written about the Crayola marker maker before (everyone loved it!), but this year I see there is a stamp set (Shopkins at that!) and I think it would be a hit with many.

shopkins

Goldieblox Ruby Skyhigh Cable Car

Goldieblox has been a really great building set for my daughter who I often call a tinker fairy. She loves to create and build – often from recycling material or anything lying around! We have other Goldieblox sets, but this Skyhigh Cable Car looks pretty fun!

goldieblox

Playmobil Carry Case

The kids have a variety of Playmobil, although not the giant sets. But they’ve been well loved and well played with for years. If you aren’t sure where to start, I love the Playmobil Carry Case options. They have just a few pieces and come in a handy case to travel with. It makes for a great starter set (plus the price point is fantastic).

carrycase-playmobil

Puzzles

What I love about puzzles is that there are different styles for different ages. They make for an excellent activity to do together, or for quiet time. Look for pretty or eye-catching scenes that the kids will be interested in. Giant floor puzzles are excellent for younger kids, and puzzles with 100 pieces or more for school aged kids are more challenging and my daughter loves them. (I love the Cobble Hill puppy one from Tag Along Toys!)

puzzles

Still looking for more gift ideas?

Check out my previous gift guides!

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

2016-holiday-gift-guide-for-kids

6 Min Read October 27, 2016 9 Replies

From Ottawa: Léonie, the Maplelea Doll shares her story

Play, Shopping

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Do you remember letting your imagination soar when you were a child? Through pretend play, dress up and dolls, I was able to explore different worlds and make new friends. It’s so nice to see the same sense of wonder through the eyes of my own children. When my daughter received a Maplelea Doll last year, she instantly was connected to her. It’s not hard to imagine why; not only are the dolls perfect for girls and boys who love to play pretend, but the accessories, outfits and the Canadiana of the dolls really connect with children.

Léonie in Ottawa

I think it’s nice to browse through the Maplelea catalogue and recognize Canadian places, activities and traditions.  Living in Ottawa, we get to enjoy a lot of what this country has to offer right here, especially with the 150th Canada Day celebrations coming up in 2017.

My kids love so many things about this City. They enjoy taking walks at the beach nearby, playing in the fields or at the parks, they like hiking in the Gatineau Hills and visiting fairs, festivals and fun days. There are many, many museums in Ottawa, and the kids love exploring all of them.

leonie in ottawa

Our love for the City, and for Canada (it’s no secret we like to travel, and Canada is an exciting place to explore!), may be why the Maplelea dolls are so appealing for us. On a recent trip to Chateau Montebello, my daughter insisted that Léonie come for the visit. She lounged with her in bed, and enjoyed some time by the pool while we swam. These are the moments that I love; watching my daughter’s imagination soar. Even at home, while dressing Léonie, and playing with Piccolo, she’s in a mini world of her own that is sweet and kind and I hope that world lasts a long time.

There are many reasons why she has so much fun with her Maplelea Doll. Here are a few reasons why I, as a parent, think her Maplelea Doll has been a welcome addition to her group of pretend playmates.

  • Imagination Abounds

I love how the sky is the limit when it comes to using her imagination with her Maplelea doll. She loves to pretend to play school, or have an adventure. I can hear her talking to Léonie in her bedroom while she is playing (or reading a book to her) and the innocence and joy that come out in her voice melt my heart. We have a few different accessories like the lounger and a variety of clothing items that she really enjoys playing with.

  • Truly Canadian

These truly are Canadian dolls. The company is Canadian, and the themes for all of the dolls are Canadian. Browsing the catalogue, it’s easy to see how different dolls come from various parts of our vast country with interests that are quite regional. No matter which doll your child has, they can find accessories from any of the doll lines that really speak to them and their own personalities. I have a friend who’s daughter does Highland Dancing, so she would love the Highland dress outfit!

I also love the journal entries that come with each doll and accessory. We’ve added pages to Léonie’s journal that include information on her hometown, on Ottawa, and other tidbits that are filled with Canadian trivia, activities and information. This is a really great way for my daughter to learn more about Canada and interact more with her doll.

leonie maplelea doll skating

  • Stylish Variety

I’m pretty sure these dolls are better dressed than I am, but with a fashionista for a daughter, who has her own sense of style at the age of 7, it’s wonderful to see so many unique, fun clothing options. Whether it’s an outfit that is interest specific (like for dancing, horseback riding or a sport), or an outfit that just shares a little bit of the doll’s (and our kids’) personalities, I like that there is so much choice.

maplelea dolls

  • She grows with my daughter

While my daughter has gone through different stages where she liked to play with baby dolls – feeding them, rocking them to sleep, wearing them – I think she is really enjoying having a doll that is meant to be closer to her age. Again, she’s able to let some of her own personal interests shine through Léonie and can experience our adventures as a family in a way that she thinks Léonie would enjoy them too.

Meet Léonie!

Want to meet Léonie? She’s been a wonderful friend to our daughter and it has been fun to watch them play together. In this video, we share a bit about why Ottawa is such a wonderful City, some of my daughter’s favourite things to do here, and how Léonie is enjoying her time with us. (Yes, the narration is by my 7 year old who also helped write the script!)

When you are planning for unique, special holiday and birthday gifts, Maplelea Dolls would be a wonderful addition.  Léonie has been a welcome guest in our home.

 This post is part of the YummyMummyClub.ca and the Maplelea #MapleleaLove sponsored program. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. This post reflects my personal opinion about the information provided by the sponsors.

2 Min Read October 26, 2016 No Reply

Local Etsy Shopping – Ottawa Etsy Shops I’m Loving

Shopping

A couple of weekends ago I went to the Etsy show in Ottawa. This wasn’t the first time I went and I always love going. It’s a wonderful way to support local businesses and find new, unique items that I likely never would have discovered otherwise.

Each year seems to bring a few new gems that I think are fantastic so I wanted to share them here. Bookmark these sites for future gift giving ideas or when you need to treat yourself!

1- Totally Squared

This shop isn’t new to me, but I want to give it a shout out because I love date squares but I love great date squares. Some bakeries don’t make them very well. Totally Squared scores very high marks for their date square deliciousness (plus, they have many other square options that are tasty and drool worthy!)

A photo posted by Rebecca S (@bitofmomsense) on

2-Art of Melodious

I love gorgeous cards – ones that are original, funny, unique – and the selection from Art of Melodious fits the bill. I bought a pug birthday card that my son is going to love but there were so many others to consider as well.

A photo posted by Rebecca S (@bitofmomsense) on

3- Sew Crazy

This shop offers custom embroidery and I love the sayings and designs that you can get on the tea towels. I think a customized towel would be such a thoughtful gift for someone! A quick visit to the website shows many other products to choose from as well like bags and scarves.

4- Qute Creation

I remember this shop from last year – I bought adorable felt pretend tea bags for our kids’ kitchen. They were a huge hit! I love the busy books for babies, the puppets and the cupcakes. So much creative cuteness all in one shop!

5- Versatile

I finally bought one of the Versatile coasters that I have been eyeing for so long. I always loved the look of these coasters (you likely have seen them around Ottawa in local shops!) and while it was difficult to decide on which saying I liked best, I felt this one suited me well.

A photo posted by Rebecca S (@bitofmomsense) on

 

6- Thomas Wood Crafts

I shouldn’t be obsessed with cutting boards of all things, but I am and you can find gorgeous ones at Thomas Wood Crafts. However, it’s impossible not to also fall in love with his wooden toy creations. I think the simplicity is perfect!

Happy browsing!

 

 

2 Min Read October 19, 2016 No Reply

SAVE 20% at Tag Along Toys until October 23

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advertiser

Announcing the amazing 20% off sale at Tag Along Toys!

From Wednesday, October 19 until Sunday, October 23, save 20% on everything in store at Tag Along Toys (*discount doesn’t apply on Katerina Mertikas puzzles).

Save 20% until October 23 at @tagalongtoys! #ottawa #shoplocal via @bitofmomsense

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While it’s no secret that Tag Along Toys is a long time blog advertiser, what you may not know is that I am also a customer – a frequent customer. For birthday gifts and holiday gifts, I find some special, unique gifts at Tag Along Toys.  It’s one reason why I was so thrilled when Patti opened up at the Bank Street location; it was closer for me to get to!

I have always loved the service at Tag Along Toys and the variety of items for kids is amazing. I love that there is something for everyone, including babies, older kids and those who are young at heart. My own children could give a long list of ideas for themselves just by browsing in the store.

Each year, my sisters, mom and myself plan a holiday shopping day out. We hit a few stores, grab some food and just enjoy a busy day of visiting and having fun. We always end up at Tag Along Toys because we all can find amazing gifts there.

This sale is a HUGE one! The store often has this sale around this time of year as a kick off to a very busy holiday season. It’s the perfect time to stock up on birthday gifts (we have three family birthdays in November!), early Christmas shopping, and more.

 

Looking for other reasons to go to the Tag Along Toys sale?

  • Excellent customer service
  • Unique gifts that you likely won’t find other places
  • FREE Gift Wrapping!
  • You’ll be supporting local
  • Beat the crowds and shop for the holidays early!

Keep an eye out on the Tag Along Toys Facebook page for product updates or if you have questions.

Happy shopping!

tag along toys sale

3 Min Read May 20, 2016 No Reply

Shop and earn money with Ebates

Shopping

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Do you shop with rewards in mind? Do you have cards that earn you points for trips, or cash back when you shop? We have a stack of them in our wallets, and while some are very useful, others barely give me enough points to buy a chocolate bar, or the redemption program is difficult.

What if we could earn money just by shopping online – at stores that you are already shopping at?

For ages, one of my sisters has been raving about Ebates.ca. I didn’t pay much attention – as little sisters tend to do – and apparently I don’t like getting money for free (or else I would have looked into this forever ago!). But she is wise and every quarter receives up to 30% cash back just from her purchases that she’s already making online. This isn’t a program that requires you to shop somewhere that you normally wouldn’t want to, or make a large purchase just to get the cash back; it’s all about accumulating the cash benefit by doing your regular shopping. With over 650 stores available in the program, it’s easy to fit this into our shopping routine, and earn the dollars back.

I finally signed up, and can see why Ebates.ca is so popular. I love that the selection of stores include many places that shop from frequently.  Signing up was easy, I simply had to enter an email and create a password, and now, when I click through the shops via their site (or app!) they calculate the rebates for my purchases.  And just like that, I’m earning cash back. They have holiday promotions throughout the year, and from time to time bonus offers that arrive in my inbox for easy notification.

There’s also another bonus, when you refer friends, you receive referral dollars. I like that! It means that if you sign up using my special link (this one right here!), I’ll receive a bonus too. Which means I can do some more spring shopping. That’s winning all around!

Not sold yet? What if I told you about some of the stores that are included in the group?  Some of my favourites are Indigo (I spend so much money at Indigo each year!), Etsy (this is a rabbit hole many of us fall down), Staples (I love Staples!), Well.ca (tip: great for vitamins!), Joe Fresh (also known as the place where I can’t stop buying bathing suits), Booking.com and Vistaprint.

Pretty impressive right? Earning up to 30% just for shopping? Sold.

etsy ebates

I only just signed up for my account, so I’m anxious to see what the next few months will bring (and what cheque I will receive!)  I’ll share on social media in a few months how the rebates are going.  I imagine that at Christmastime I can earn some sweet bonuses!

 Have you tried Ebates.ca before? Interested in signing up? Click here. What store of the 650 stores that they have working with them do you shop at most often?

 

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post and I received compensation, however, opinions are my own. Affiliate links are included in this post. And please don’t tell my sister I should have listened to her months ago. 😉

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