5 Baby Products I'm Loving | 2 Months

Ladies and gents, we have a 2 month old! 
I know, 2 months isn't a long time in the grand scheme of things, but in 'new mom world' it seems like the little lady has been with us forever. I can't remember what life was like without her.
One thing I also can't remember is what our tiny apartment looked like sans baby stuff. Holy moly that stuff accumulates quickly!
The baby gadgets and gizmos on the market continue to amaze me. Today, I'm sharing 5 baby products I'm loving this month.

1  |  hydraSense Nasal Aspirator Baby girl got her first cold this month, and seeing her struggle to breathe through a stuffy nose was heart breaking. We received this Hydrasense nose aspirator at our baby shower and were told it will come in handy. I was hesitant to use it at first, for fear of hurting the little one (and sucking her snot into my mouth). However, it is designed to be gentle on your little one, is so easy to use, and comes with a filter so you don't have to worry about eating baby's snot. It gave baby instant relief. 
2  |  Infantino Flip Advanced 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier We had originally purchased a sling for our little one, but when we realized it didn't come in one-size-fits all we opted instead for this convertible carrier so that both my husband and I could wear it.  This 4-way carrier is the ideal carrier for infancy through to the toddler years (8-32 lbs) - you can use the narrow seat position and padded head support to comfortably hold small infants, and as baby grows, switch to the wide position to continue to provide an ergonomic seat.
3  |  Tofasco Folding Wagon Ok, so this product may be more for mom and dad... Living in an apartment, lugging our stuff, and baby, to and from the car can be challenging. We recently found this wagon at Costco, and at first, walked away from it. When we got home that day, we realized how much we would actually use it - doing laundry and bringing up groceries, just to name a few uses. It is extremely durable, folds for easy storage and comes with a protective cover. It has a hard bottom so when baby is old enough, we will also be able to use it to take her to the park. 
4  |  cuddle+kind Doll Miss Morley loves her Willow the deer from cuddle+kind and I love this company for keeping my little girl happy and because they are a ethical, family-run company. Not only does cuddle+kind make adorable dolls for your little, for every 1 doll purchased, 10 meals are provided to children in need across the world.  In fact, since September 2015, cuddle+kind has donated 210,598 meals from the sales of their dolls and associated stylish inspirational prints! And they don't stop there - all dolls are handmade with love in Peru and provide the artisans with a sustainable, fair-trade income. They are made of high quality cotton with hypoallergenic polyfil for the ideal cuddle. Only the best for their tiny human friends.
5  |  Brica Infant Car Seat Comfort Canopy This car seat canopy is the answer to insect, uv and rain protection all-in-one. The canopy gives baby a cool, shady hideaway on trips to the park, the breathable mesh lets the fresh air in while keeping out bugs, wind, and germs from overly friendly strangers (which I find especially important while grocery shopping), and a retractable rain and sun cover blocks over 98% of damaging UVA/UVB rays. When not in use, the canopy can be tucked away in a zippered pocket. 

Check out other baby products I've been loving lately: 1 month

Have you tried any of these products? What baby products do you recommend?
Disclaimer: I was in no way compensated for this post, I am simply sharing products I love. If any of these companies would like to provide product for review, I would definitely not be opposed. All opinions are 100% my own.

Home Stretch: 38 Weeks

Yesterday was my last official day of work before baby. Technically, I've been off since last week as per the doctor's recommendation, but yesterday I went in to hand things over and say my "goodbye, see you in a year". Yes, in Canada we get a year maternity leave. It was kind of a surreal feeling - it's one thing to leave a job and move on to another, but to leave a job knowing you'll be back in a year ,and knowing you're leaving to start a little family unit, is a whole new feeling. 

Baby Wardo, we are so ready to meet you.
Since baby's arrival is very near, instead of doing the tradition "bump date", today I've decided to share 5 things I'm looking forward to...
1  |  the answer to the burning question: who will baby be? It's inevitable that babe will be a blue-eyed blonde, but will he/she be a mini Mar or a mini Steve?
2  |  new family roles. Lots of new roles in my family, not just first-time mom and dad. Baby Wardo is the first grandchild on both of our sides, so we have new aunts, uncles, grandmas and grandpas (and a great grandma on my side). 

Baby's arrival also means a visit from my little sister, who currently calls the Canadian west home. I haven't seen her since our family vacay to Italy about 7 months ago, so I'm pretty pumped to spend time with her and see her in action as Auntie. 
I'm also curious to see how the family dogs will react, since they are used to getting all of the attention around here. Titus gets frustrated because his normal comfy spot on my lap has been taken over by a moving round ball and he gets in trouble when he steals baby's stuffies thinking they're for him. I know my parents'  dog Lola will be like a protective older sister, but I think Titus will ignore the baby, at least a first. A thing with hands that can't scratch him? No interest. 

3  |  sleep. Ok, so obviously sleep with a newborn will be limited, but as a former stomach sleepover, I am just looking forward to not having a basketball-sized lump in the way and not waking up roasting. 
4  |  having my body and brain [somewhat] back. Being 38 weeks pregnant is not beautiful - I'm slow moving, wheezing and sweating like I just ran a half marathon and my hands and feet are so swollen that they look like a rubber glove filled with water. I couldn't imagine being pregnant in the summer. Would not be pretty. 
Despite knowing that I am growing a living being inside of me, gaining the amount of weight that I have has not been an easy concept to grasp. It's taken a huge toll on my body, and I look forward to be able to regain what I can back. Not to mention, get rid of the baby brain and clumsiness. I've broken something in the kitchen at least 3 of 5 days this week and have had some real doozies when it comes to forgetting things. At least, that's what I've been told. I can't remember. 

5  |  buying 'normal' clothes. Goodbye expensive maternity clothes, hello spring wardrobe! Have you seen the spring Joe Fresh line? I don't know a whole lot about fashion, but it is filled with light fabrics, colourful patterns and is mucho affordable. I pity those that don't have a Joe Fresh near them (or like me, in their local grocery store = deadly). Can. not. wait!
What are you up to this weekend?

A Weekend of Celebrations

TGIF, it's finally the weekend I've been waiting for for months! This weekend is a big one - jam packed with celebrations, which means lots of good food, good drinks and good company (and hopefully enough sleep). The perfect recipe for one happy girl. Here's what's going on...
1. The big 3-0. The outdoorsman turns the big 3-0 tomorrow and we're celebrating in style! I started the planning early because I knew that at 34 weeks pregnant, the only thing I would want to do was lay on the couch. Really patting myself on the back for that one because I am one exhausted girl! The party is not a surprise (there is no keeping secrets from him), but the theme is a surprise. Make sure to check out my Insta to see what the theme is. I can't wait to share!

This photo has nothing to do with this post, but who doesn't love a cute owl photo?! This guy's name is Peabody. He's a fan of selfies. 

2. The weather. Here in southern Ontario, we've been 'spoiled' all winter with no snow and mild temps, but this weekend it's supposed to feel like -30 C (-20ish F). Right outside the door of our new apartment, we have an amazing trail that follows the Don River down to Lake Ontario, where urban meets nature. Our Friday night routine usually includes a nice long walk (or until baby tells me I need to call it quits), but tonight, I think I'll stay inside. The couch is looking pretty comfy. 

3. Valentine's Day. Since my husband's birthday falls the day before V-Day, we usually don't celebrate both. Valentine's Day always gets the boot. Sundays are also both of our Mondays, so I think this year we'll be staying in, possibly with one of these at-home date night ideas. 
4. NBA All Star game. I'm not the biggest basketball fan, but this weekend, athletes and celebrities have descended on the city for Sunday's All Star game and the festivities leading up. This is the first time that the game has been hosted in Canada, so Toronto is doing it up BIG. My eyes will definitely be peeled for celeb sightings around the city. Fun fact if you're still looking for tickets - a ticket in the nosebleed's for Sunday's game at the Air Canada Centre will cost you $600 and a seat at the VIP party will set you back a small $15,000. Oh to be a fly on the wall at that party...

//via//

5. Family Day. Last, but not least, in Ontario, Monday is a stat holiday called Family Day. Apparently back in 2007 it was decided that Ontario needed a February stat holiday, so Family Day was born. I'll take it.  I will definitely be enjoying lots of family time this weekend as we celebrated Steve's entrance into the world 30 years ago. Oh, and it's the Grammy's. 
So, that's my busy weekend in a nutshell. 
What are you up to this weekend?

When in Rome...

Visiting the ancient city of Rome was definitely a highlight of our recent trip to Italy. There is so much to see and do in this historic city that I really don't think you can spend enough time there. We crammed lots of walking, sightseeing, eating and drinking into those one and a half days, but didn't even scratch the surface. 
Is visiting Rome on your bucket list? Here are my 5 recommendations for things to do & see 'when in Rome'...

1// Circle the Colosseum, inside and out. Located just east of the Roman Forum, the massive stone amphitheater known as the Colosseum was commissioned around A.D. 70-72 by Emperor Vespasian as a gift to the Roman people. After a decade of construction, Vespasian’s son Titus opened the Colosseum with 100 days of games, including gladiatorial combats and wild animal fights. After four centuries of active use, the arena fell into neglect. Though two-thirds of the original Colosseum have been destroyed over time, the amphitheater is continually being restored and remains a popular tourist destination. 

2// Feel small in Vatican City. St. Peter's Square, known locally as Piazza San Pietro, was created in the seventeenth century. The square is an architectural highlight, and absolutely enormous. On special occasions, such as the election of a new pope or Easter, almost 400,000 people fill the expansive square. St Peter's Square creates an entry point to the St. Peter's Basilica, the world's largest basilica. The word basilica used to describe an open, Roman public court building, but today refers to a large and important church that has been given special ceremonial rights by the Pope. 

3// Let your feet do the work. Take a walking tour of Rome and visit one, two, three or more of the  many famous attractions, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, to name just a few.
The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved of all Ancient Roman buildings. It has been in continuous use throughout its history, and since the 7th century has been used as a church.

Trevi Fountain, which sadly was under construction when we visited, is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world.

Built in the early 1700s, the bustling 135 steps comprising the monumental Spanish Steps connect the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinità dei Monti church, which was also being restored during our visit. 

4// Take a walk through history at the Roman Forum. Located next door to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the center of Roman pubic life for centuries. It acted as the site of processions, elections, public speeches, criminal trials and even gladiator matches. Statues and monuments scattered throughout the Forum commemorate the city’s great men, including the infamous Caesar. Today, the Forum is a sprawling ruin of architectural fragments and archaeological excavations remembering what the city of Rome once was.

5// Fill your belly.  In Rome, simple, yet traditional, cuisine reigns supreme. No matter which little back alley you wander down in your travels through Rome, you will find it littered with tables, chairs, umbrellas, friendly waiters and the aroma of Italian food. As an added bonus, in most places the beer and wine is cheaper than a bottle of still or sparkling water! However, be warned, most, if not all, restaurants in Italy also have a 'cover charge', which ranges from 2.50 Euro plus. One thing that I love about dinner time in Rome is that no one is in a rush, to eat or get you out of their restaurant. You start late, go slow, eat plenty and drink lots, rolling or stumbling out of the restaurant way after bed time. 

Have you been to Rome? What is your on 'must do' list?

Read more about our trip to Italy here:

Mystery Trip Recap

Food of Italy

Free Things to Do in Toronto

Like most people our age, we are on a budget. Gone are the days of going out for dinner multiple times per week or buying a brand new outfit "just because". With our new condo completion on the horizon, we are in serious savings mode. However, being on a budget does not have to mean we can't have fun. Luckily for us, there is a long list of FREE things to do in Toronto. Here are some of my favourite.

Get outdoors. Despite being known as the "concrete jungle", there are several parks scattered in and around the city of Toronto. One of my favourites is High Park. With over one million visitors annually, High Park is the jewel of Toronto’s park system.  Over one-third remains in a natural state, which means it is home to many species of wildlife. The park also offers many popular attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy - a dog park, small zoo, many hiking trails and playgrounds for children. The park is very popular in early spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, but also beautiful in the winter when covered in snow. Another park high on my list of favourites is Tommy Thompson, located on the waterfront on opposite end of the City from High Park. 

Take a dip in the lake. It’s no secret Ontario has many beautiful shorelines and some of the most pristine beaches. Locally, you can find Woodbine Beach and Sugar Beach, both popular during the summer months. Go for a walk along the boardwalk, take a refreshing dip, play a game of beach volleyball, build a sandcastle or just dig your toes into the sand and relax to the sound of soothing waves of Lake Ontario.

Let your feet do the work.  Toronto is a big city, and while most areas are accessible by transit, some things are best seen on foot. The patchwork of dynamic neighbourhoods, impressive architecture, green spaces, shops and eateries encourage visitors to lace up and hit the streets.  The City of Toronto has an extensive database for all self-guided City walks. Want something guided? The Tour Guys offer several free downtown walking tours throughout the summer months. 

Take a stroll through history. The historic Distillery District is one of my favourite places, and a hidden gem. This pedestrian-only village is set amidst fabulous heritage architecture that comprises the largest and best-preserved collection of Victorian Industrial Architecture. You won't find a franchise or chain operation here, so all the stores and galleries are one of a kind. Hundreds of films have also been shot here, including Tommy Boy, Chicago and X-Men. Mill Street Brewery is a must visit, and their Original Organic Lager is a must try. In December, the District is transformed into a winter wonderland with the Christmas Market.

Take in the culture. Toronto is home to numerous districts, markets, festivals and museums that will allow you to explore the City's diverse culture. Take a stroll through one of the many districts, from China Town to Little Italy or the Danforth, known for its Greek culture. St Lawrence Market is Toronto's largest market, with other 120 vendors that sell everything from fresh veggies to breads, cheese, fish, meat and even arts and crafts. Some of the local museums also offer free access, including the Art Gallery of Ontario which is free from 6-8:30pm every Wednesday evening. 

What is your favourite free activity in your town?

Mystery Trip Recap

Bonjourno! We are back from our mystery family vacay, and I have to admit, it has not been an easy adjustment back to the 'real world'. Jet lag is the worst! So where in the world did we end up? When we checked in at the airport, we discovered that our adventure was taking us to Italy - Rome, the Amalfi Coast and Napoli, to be exact. It was a week filled with lots of sunshine, swimming, food and drink (wine, olive oil, pizza and pasta galore), and most importantly, family.

So while I sift through my 1200+ photos from paradise, I will leave you with a little teaser of what is to come over the next few weeks. Here is a brief recap of our trip, in 5 photos...

We spent a day and a half exploring the ancient city of Rome, with pit stops at the famous Colosseo, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and more.

We took the high speed train south to Napoli, where we visited a winery and olive oil farm for lunch and walked the streets of Pompeii beneath the shadow of Mt Vesuvio.

The majority of the week was spent along the Amalfi Coast, in a small town called Praiano.  We explored the coast, from Praiano to Amalfi, Ravello and Maiori, became mermaids in the Tyrrehnian Sea and loved the simplicity of the Italian lifestyle.

Our adventures along the Coast ended with a day spent exploring the island of Capri. We toured amongst the yachts and million dollar homes, playing the "what yacht would you buy if you won the lottery?" game, we snorkelled and we ate delicious, fresh and local seafood.

After an amazing week on the Coast, we were back to Napoli, where we toured the birth place of pizza, before boarding the high speed train and ending the trip where it all began, in Rome.

I'm already ready to go back. 

Have you ever been to Italy? What was your favourite part?

oh hey... Saturday!

Happy weekend! I hope 2015 has been good to everyone so far. Just wanted to pop in to say howdy... and take care of some housekeeping/play catch up. I'm a day late on my 5 things, but here goes...
1  |  New year, new blog to sponsor? If you haven't taken advantage of T.O. & fro's ad sale yet, you only have 5 days left! Use code WELCOME50 for 50% OFF all ad space! I've got something for everyone, and they start at only $1 per month! Do it. Now.
2  |  I don't know about your part of the world, but up here in good ol' Canada, it's pretty frigid. I'm a popsicle. But, I must admit my winter gear is pretty top notch. Stylish and warm. 
3  |  I have declared 2015 the "year of local travel". Now that we're back in the groove of living at home, I would love to be able to explore our little corner of the world more. Last night I booked a quick getaway trip to Ontario wine country to celebrate Steve's birthday/Valentine's day and I am beyond excited! His birthday and Valentine's day are back to back, and sadly every year one usually  gets thrown to the curb. This year we're going to celebrate both in style. He's been adjusting to "normal life" like a pro, and I also think that's a reason to treat ourselves. We've been to Niagara many times during the summer months, so it will be amazing to take it all in during the winter months. Being able to taste local wine is also a bonus :)

4  |  Our condo is officially 10% paid for. We are officially even more broke, but getting that much closer to taking ownership.

Putting a dot on it.

5  |  Last, but definitely not least... My monthly photography link up "What Inspires Your Senses?" will be back on January 28! If you're not familiar with WIYS, on the last Wednesday of every month, I will challenge you to select 5 of your favorite personal photographs - one that best describes each of your 5 senses: see, smell, taste, touch and hear. As an added challenge, come up with one for the "sixth sense", an open-ended category to interpret your own way. The photos can be ones you've taken recently or those you've dug out of the archives, those you've taken in one location or in several and even those you've taken with a DSLR or on your smart phone. No photography skills are needed, just your imagination and creativity!

How to participate:

1| Linkup your blog post with the photos that inspire your senses.

2| Follow your host (T.O. & fro) & monthly cohost.

3| Link back to the party in your post, either with text or button below.

4| Check out as many blogs as you can to see what inspires others' senses!

5| Share on social media, using the hashtag #whatinspiresyoursenses!

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Stay warm ya'll!