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September is a month for new beginnings and energy. However, the annual return to campus can be stressful for university students as they gear up for another year of late-night study sessions, hectic schedules and exams. Here are some easy tips to help make the trip back to campus a whole lot calmer.

Stock up on essentials

For many university students, living away from home for the first time can feel overwhelming with new responsibilities from grocery shopping to doing laundry and even paying bills for the first time. Stocking up on essentials for the year like laundry detergent, soap and toilet paper is a great way to help make the back to campus transition a smooth one. To help your kids manage that “student budget”, try Arm & Hammer™ Coldwater™ Laundry Detergent in Liquid and in Paks – it removes dirt and odours while saving money on monthly energy bills with (versus washing in hot or warm water).

Make healthy choices easy

Plan ahead! Help your kids set a few realistic goals to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout the busy school year. With long hours and a demanding workload, eating well can be a challenge. Keeping a supply of Vitafusion™ MultiVites gummy vitamins on hand is an easy way to get the nutrients they need throughout the busy year.

Create a back-to-campus survival kit

September can be an overwhelming month as students settle into new living spaces and adjust to their school schedules. To help your kids kick the year off on the right foot, try creating a custom back-to-campus survival kit with some tokens of home like favourite recipes and a photo album alongside everyday essentials like toothpaste, shampoo and laundry detergent. With some new outfits inevitably on heavy rotation, Arm & Hammer™ Plus OxiClean™ Crystal Burst™ Power Paks will help keep them looking like new, giving clothes a clean and fresh boost with baking soda.

What are your go-to tips for helping your kids head back to campus?

I am a brand ambassador for the 2015 year with Church & Dwight. As part of this program I receive monetary compensation as well as products to review. 

 

It’s International Cat Day on August 8th and the makers of Arm & Hammer™ want to ensure your cat is well taken care of to celebrate this pawsitively fantastic occasion!

With cats, a clean environment is key – so it’s crucial to maintain a tidy and comfortable space in their home.  Arm & Hammer™ Clump & Seal™ Complete Odour Sealing Cat Litter provides a 7-day odour-free home, guaranteed – great for you and your cat! This revolutionary formula seals and destroys odours before they can leave the litter box. Its plant-derived particles help create rock hard clumps for easy scooping, and its fine micro-particles ensure ultra-low dust when pouring or scooping – this helps keep litter in the box instead of on your kitty’s feet.  Plus your cat will love the new softer feel!

In the spirit of International Cat Day, here are some examples of worldwide positive cat-titude:

A-Latte Love for Whiskers

Cat cafés have become an international phenomenon – with cities like Paris, Berlin and Montreal pouncing on the bandwagon. Stop by for coffee and enjoy the company of new furry friends!

Cat Crazed

Search cat videos online and you’ll find endless results. That’s why many North American animal shelters annually host cat-themed festivals showcasing feline videos for a good cause.

On the A-List

Speaking of cats and the internet, this list wouldn’t be complete without Grumpy Cat. The Internet sensation has published books, won awards and posed for the cover of New York Magazine. She even has over 7 million likes on her Facebook page – talk about a cat leading the pack!

Fun Fact: Today, some cats are viewed as celebrities, but in Ancient Egypt, they were considered divine.[1]

Pet Ownership is the Cat’s Meow in Canada

In the never ending battle between cats and dogs, felines actually edge out canines. While 37% of Canadians own one or more cats, only 32% own a dog.[2]

Despite which furry friend you own at home, both cats and dogs are considered part of the family. Dog owners believe their pets offer them improved physical health while cat owners believe their pets offer them improved mental health.[3]

How will you celebrate your cat’s big day?

 

[1] http://www.ancient.eu/article/466/

[1] http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/sis14914

[1]  http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/sis14914

I am a brand ambassador for the 2015 year with Church & Dwight. As part of this program I receive monetary compensation as well as products to review. 

Summer has officially begun, which means it’s time to take a break from your busy life – and what better way than to embark on an adventure!

The options are endless – both nationally and internationally. When you’re getting your family organized and ready, don’t forget about Gravol™. If anyone is sensitive to motion sickness, whether you’re travelling by land, air or water, Gravol™ has you covered. Gravol™ Quick Dissolve Chewables for Adults and for Kids are ideal since they can be taken without water. If you prefer more natural products, Gravol™ Ginger tablets, lozenges or liquid gels made with certified organic ginger are also a great choice. Besides helping with motion sickness, Gravol™ Ginger products also help treat indigestion and upset stomach.  They are easily packed and are non-drowsy too – so keeping up with your children won’t be a problem!

Gravol™ is only found in Canada, so make sure you stock up before leaving the country!

Here are the top 10 places to travel this summer:

Canadian Destinations

Whistler, BC

Sure, the city is known for its majestic slopes, but without the snow you’re looking at a beautiful backdrop for outdoor adventures with an unforgettable view.

 

Toronto, ON

There’s nothing like getting your family’s adrenaline pumping by climbing up the CN Tower and leaning off the edge of a 553 meter high skyscraper!

Cavendish Beach, PEI

Red sandstone cliffs with crystal blue water surrounds you at the Cavendish Beach. While you’re there, explore historic sites, like the Green Gables Heritage Place.

Banff, AB

If you’re craving a breathtaking view – this place is for you! No need to go halfway across the world to become mesmerized by natural beauty. Kayak between the Rocky Mountains or simply take it all in.

Quebec City, QC

Here you’ll find hints of European charm mixed with authentic French Canadian character. Grab a poutine and walk around the old city, home to iconic Chateau Frontenac. If your legs start to give in, hop on a horse-drawn carriage along the cobblestone streets.

International Destinations

Grand Canyon, U.S.A.

One of the wonders of the world! It’s worth getting on a helicopter to soak in a truly life-changing experience.

Sesimbra, Portugal

This beautiful little fishing port is filled with colourful and authentic charm, known for its beaches, local cafes and fish restaurants. If delving into culture is what you’re looking for, this is it.

Kefalonia, Greece

Take a boat ride and you’ll be surrounded by picturesque villages, olive groves, beaches and tremendous mountains.

Hong Kong, China

A bustling and exciting harbour city, you’d be surprised how easy it is for tourists to explore. There are lots of kid-friendly activities, such as Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

A trip for the adventurous: the city showcases original ancient temples, including the Angkor Archaeological Park, cited as one of the most valuable archaeological sites in South-East Asia – so you know it’s worth getting over the jet lag for!

 

What are your tips and tricks for smooth summer skin?

I am a brand ambassador for the 2015 year with Church & Dwight. As part of this program I receive monetary compensation as well as products to review. 

Summer has arrived which means things are about to get hectic! The kids are home from school, vacations are planned and it’s time to get out and enjoy the sunshine. With all the summer activities and commotion, it can be hard to find the time to take care of yourself.  Remember, having fun this summer also means staying healthy! Here are a few tips to ensure your summer kicks off without a hitch.

1. The Importance of Water

• Drinking lots of water will keep you hydrated and help cool you down on those hot, humid days. It’s important to refuel your body so you can keep your energy levels up, up, up!

2. Sunny Days are Here, in Moderation

• Throughout those long winter months, we often find ourselves craving the warm embrace of the sun—but too much of a good thing can lead to problems. Find a stylish sun hat, wear sunscreen and rock some cool shades while outdoors to protect you and your kids from the harmful rays. During peak times, go inside and cool off with a refreshing glass of lemonade.

3. Don’t Forget your Vitamins

• In the winter, we always make sure to take our daily vitamins to keep ourselves as healthy as possible during those cold months, but it’s just as important to maintain this routine in the summer. Spend those glorious days of freedom feeling your best. Vitafusion™ Men’s Complete Multivitamin and Women’s Complete Multivitamin are a quick and delicious way to ensure you get your daily dose of vitamins all year round!

4. You are what you Eat

• Summer is the perfect excuse to expand your diet. With so many wonderful and tasty fruits and vegetables in season, there are a ton of options to meet every need. Strawberry’s are at their prime in June, which means not only are they at their best, but they’re also readily available at a good price!

5. Work It!

• The cold months of winter make it hard to get motivated to do anything active, especially going to the gym. This summer, skip the gym and head outside! Walking through trails, going for a run or even gardening in your backyard – there are so many reasons to head outside and get active.

 

This summer remember to stay healthy and have fun!

National Oral Health Care Month couldn’t come at a better time for my family. We are all due for a check-up and cleaning. It was Nicky’s first dental checkup and she did pretty good. She wasn’t too keen on letting a stranger brush her teeth but she let the dentist look at her teeth. Unfortunately everyone else ended up with a few cavities that need filling. Now we’re putting extra effort into flossing the kids’ teeth and have started using Spinbrush toothbrushes.

Here are some tips to help your family practice good oral health care and hopefully end up with fewer cavities than mine!

1. Teach good habits at a young age

Starting young makes dental care part of their normal routine and can avoid future dental troubles. You can even start with babies before they have teeth by using a wet wash cloth on their gums to get them used to something being in their mouth. As I well know, 60-90% of children experience tooth decay?^1. Making dental care fun can also help make kids more interested.  My kids love picking out and using their very own toothbrushes and toothpaste.  Introduce toothpaste with fluoride like Orajel™ Super Mario ™ Kids Fluoride Toothpaste after the age of 2 years or when your dentist recommends it to help fight cavities from the get-go.

2. Keep your mouth as clean as a whistle 

Brushing and flossing twice a day is important for optimal oral health but it can be hard to get kids to brush their teeth as well and as long as they need to. New Spinbrush™ My Little Pony ™ or Super Mario ™ battery brushes so kids can practice healthy habits with the help of their favourite characters. Children under age 3 years should use the brush under adult supervision.  They are more effective than regular brushing and blast away plaque.

3. Look out for red flags

Make sure you’re looking out for signs of trouble in your mouth. Bleeding, red or swollen gums? Bad breath that won’t go away?²  These can be signs of gum disease that should be looked at by a dentist. Take all the preventative measures you can, such as staying away from tobacco and practicing good overall lifestyle habits that will help you be your healthiest, and best self.

This month make it your mantra to take extra special care of your oral health and wear a smile you’re proud of.

 

¹ World Health Organization: http://www.who.int/oral_health/media/en/orh_report03_en.pdf 

² Canadian Dental Association: http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/cfyt/good_for_life/default.asp

 

I am a brand ambassador for the 2015 year with Church & Dwight. As part of this program I receive monetary compensation as well as products to review. 

Did you make New Year’s Resolutions this year? My goal was to keep it small and try to go for a walk most days of the week. So far my success has been hit and miss. Five weeks into the year I slipping on the stairs in my house and sprained my ankle. That was super convenient with a new born baby to take care of and put my walks on hold for a bit while I just worked on walking period! After some physio and some TLC I am back to walking again but some days it is just too cold, windy or slippery to take little Robbie out.

This time of year many people have let their goals from January slip away. To help you get back at it or keep at it, I have a little giveaway full of things to help your family keep healthy as Winter turns to Spring.

~ Canada Only ~

New Year’s Reminder Prize Pack:

·         Vitafusion™ Vitamin D

·         L’il Critters™ Gummy Vites™ for kids

·         Gravol™ Natural Source Ginger Liquid Gels

·         Rub A535™ Natural-Source Arnica Gel Cream

·         Glass travel mug (with removable tea infuser)

Total Value: $50

To enter just comment below to tell me how you are doing with your New Year’s Resolutions!

One entry will be randomly chosen to receive the prize pack. You must use a valid e-mail address so you can be contacted if you win. The winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. Giveaway ends March 31, 2015. Canada only. 

Giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to Erin D!

 I am a brand ambassador for the 2015 year with Church & Dwight. As part of this program I receive monetary compensation as well as products to review and giveaway.