From Caterpillar to Butterfly - Take Part in Junction Wings: Deadline April 30th!

Every spring our family takes part in the most fun community fundraiser ever - Junction Wings! Basically it's the story of The Very Hungry Caterpillar (without the inappropriate food choices) come to life in your very own home. 

For only $10 you get a caterpillar in a little container with some caterpillar food (we always get a few. Think of it as an insurance policy so you can avoid a disappointed kid). Your fuzzy friend(s) will remain in the little cup eating until they're nice and big and tired. Then it will attach to the lid of the container and spin it's cocoon. At this time you can move the container lid with the attached cocoon to an appropriate butterfly habitat (stay tuned on a post about butterfly enclosures coming soon). 

About 10 days later a beautiful painted lady butterfly emerges.

Your butterfly will need to remain in the butterfly habitat for a few days while it's wings dry out and it gains strength. 

Then it can be released outside. The whole experience is so magical and such a fun activity to do with your kids. We look forward to this event every year and are so excited that it's almost time to bring a few hungry caterpillars home. 

If you live in the city and are willing to drive to the Junction to pick up your little fuzzy friend(s), you are more than welcome to take part in this event. Simply Buy Your Caterpillars Here by 9pm on Sunday April 30th, and stay tuned for pick up dates and locations in May. 

Can't wait to share our creative caterpillar names this year. Past years have included : Carolyn Sinclair, Banana and Chickaletta. Who knows what winners the kids will chose this year. Stay tuned, and make sure to share your caterpillar adventures (#junctionwings) so we can all follow along. 

Care

Family Fun for March Break - Enter My TIFF digiPlaySpace GIVEAWAY!

A few weeks ago I was offered the opportunity to bring the kids to check out TIFF's digiPlaySpace. Since taking all 3 littles downtown on my own seemed a tad daunting for a Wednesday morning, I decided to make it a special date for my big guy Ben (with the baby in tow of course). When the day was done Ben declared "This was one of my best days ever!" So the short story is, if you haven't checked out this incredible interactive event for kids age 3+, you really should. But now, for some of the fun details. 

When we first arrived at the digiPlaySpace it was tough to choose what to check out first. There were so many amazing displays vying for our attention. We slowly worked our way around the room to see what sparked Ben's interest and was appropriate for his age (5 1/2) and ability. The clearly marked signs at each display had a description and recommended age, which made it simple to find suitable activities. 

We started off playing with polar bears and climbing mountains on the "Canada on (Green) Screen" by Parks Canada. Ben learned about LED Coding as he tossed balls through holes to create a complete circuit. We played, hugged and laughed with Little Robot Friends, and had fun making art with Drawbots. We also boogied down at the Animation Space Station. Ok maybe this one was just Mommy & Penny, Ben ditched us! Luckily I always look super cool dancing like a robot ;) 

As a parent, my favourite was seeing Ben in action with Osmo. This award winning game works with an iPad to create tactile and interactive learning opportunities for kids. Ben loved the coding activity and asked for Osmo to be added to his birthday list right after we left. 

When I asked Ben what his favourite activity was, he had a hard time choosing, but finally declared "Flight Painting!"  At this installation we controlled the height, colour, speed and brightness of a light to create a unique pattern that was captured in a long-exposure picture. This was one of my favourites too, because not only did we get to do it together, but we made some beautiful 3D light paintings like this one.

With March break around the corner I thought it would be fun to do a GIVEAWAY for a Family Pack of 4 tickets to TIFF's digiPlaySpace. The event is on until April 23, 2017 and is geared towards kids age 3-13, however every adult I saw there was having a blast too! Weekday admission is $11 per person and weekend admission is $13 per person. (Babies 2 and under are Free)

Don't wait! Enter Now for a Chance to WIN a Family Pack of 4 Tickets to The TIFF digiPlaySpace. Simply comment below with your name and email address, or alternatively you may comment below and submit your email address to info@fifty-seven.ca for entry. Plus make sure to check out our Facebook page & Instagram feed for 2 more ways to enter! 

Contest is open to all residents of Canada and closes Thursday March 9th at 11pm EST. A winner will be chosen at random and announced within 24 hours. Good Luck!

- Care

* I did not receive any financial compensation for this post. TIFF provided admission for my family and for the Giveaway. All opinions are my own...and Ben's ;) 

Simple DIY Floor Cushions

If your kids are anything like mine, they probably don't actually sit on furniture the way it's intended. Mine seem to sit on the floor most of the time, so I decided to make them some oversized floor pillows to make a cozy spot for reading books or watching a movie. 

I searched high and low on the good old internet for some appropriate cushions, but the prices were ridiculous. $150-$300 for a big cushion with cover! Not exactly what I wanted to spend on cushions that I knew would be covered in peanut butter and apple juice within hours. I wanted something that I could machine wash and toss on the floor without concern for ruining them. I even looked at dog beds, but turns out people spend A LOT on their dogs. Not that I don't love my kids, but seriously, I just couldn't justify that kind of money on floor cushions. So I decided I would make them myself. 

I found an amazing textile place in West Toronto, Nusso Textiles, that has an incredible selection of pillows and cushions, as well as options for custom orders. If you oder more than $100 at a time it's considered wholesale and much cheaper. I ordered a dozen throw pillows of various sizes for our screened in porch bench seats and 4 giant 32" x 32" pillows for the kids. I opted to upgrade to the polycotton covering so they would stand up to any necessary laundering. They came to $22 each and were ready to pick up in about 4 days. 

Next I wanted to make covers for the pillows, but again wanted to keep it simple and affordable. I chose some durable cotton canvas fabric (I recommend a cotton canvas or cotton twill, something with a little more strength than a soft quilting or craft cotton) from my favourite local fabric store Fabric Fabric. This place might seem a little rough around the edges, but I promise it has great fabrics and even better prices. I find I get my best deals from the ladies there when I'm pregnant or toting around a cute baby. Just a tip ;) 

I found this dead simple envelope pillow case tutorial online and set to work. This is definitely a project appropriate for a beginner, and can be adapted to fit any cushion size. The project involves:

1. cutting one piece of fabric
2. ironing said fabric
3. hemming two ends of the fabric
4. folding the fabric into the appropriate shape &
5. sewing a straight edge along 2 sides.

For each of my 32" cushions I needed 2 meters of fabric, which left me with extra fabric for smaller cushion covers or other projects. I cut 1 piece of fabric 32" x 72" (32"x2 +8" for overlap and seam allowance) and created my cover. Once I figured out my measurements each pillow case only took about 20 kid free minutes to make...if a baby or child is around this could be extended to several days ;) 

As you can see the kids are loving the finished project. The best part is that they cost about $40 each to make. A huge savings from the original ones I found on Etsy and other sites, not to mention you can customize them to suit your style. Hope this inspires you to make some cozy floor cushions for your family. 

Care 

Giving To Charity Never Smelled So Sweet: Great Wolf Lodge + Ronald McDonald House Charities

Every year as the holidays approach I try to think of some ways that our family can give back. We are so fortunate and privileged, and it's essential that our children grow up knowing that. Throughout the year we try to instil a sense of gratitude in our kids and actively help in our community where we can, but the holidays are a great time to reinforce this giving mentality. Whether it's small local initiatives or larger charitable organizations, we always pick a few to support. I often include these giving activities in our Christmas Countdown Calendar, interspersed with little gifts, treats and holiday family events.

So on December 1st I was very excited for the kids to open their calendar. Ben (who is an excellent reader) peeled open the envelope and as he read the card his eyes lit up and huge smile came across his face. The card said "We're taking a family trip to Great Wolf Lodge!!! While we're there we will be dining in a real gingerbread house, and making a donation to the Ronald McDonald House Charities to help families with sick children." Ben had heard myths of Great Wolf Lodge from friends and family, and desperately wanted to go, so this was huge for him. I don't think the kids fully understood the life size gingerbread house part, and honestly I think they thought I was lying to them, but they seemed very excited and curious to see it. Penny, on the other hand just wanted to eat the envelope ;)

When we arrived we were all in awe. The gingerbread house was absolutely gorgeous and the kids were mesmerized by it. Made with over 1200 eggs, 666 lbs of flour, 5 lbs of ginger powder and 40 Litres of Molasses (just to name a few ingredients), plus 165 lbs of candy, it's an impressive structure. The house takes over 700 hours to plan and make, and baking begins each year in September. Inside the house there is a working fireplace and a train running around the top of it. Plus the smell...oh the smell, it's absolutely incredible. It's like sitting in Christmas. The only issue was that Lucy wanted to eat the whole thing!

If you're headed to Great Wolf Lodge for their Snowland Event this holiday season I highly recommend checking out the 10th annual Gingerbread house. By giving a $20 donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities, families can reserve this special table for a meal during their stay. It books up fast, so be sure to contact the resort in advance, or reserve online, because virtually every kid wants to eat in it once they see it. Our kids wanted to eat EVERY meal in it! 

I feel so fortunate to have 3 healthy children, but I know that their health can change at any time and I never want to take that for granted. Having a critically or chronically ill child is one of every parent's worst nightmares. Ronald McDonald House Charities provide incredible support for families with ill children around the world. Most of us have heard of their "home away from home" housing for families with hospitalized children, but I was totally unaware of the other amazing initiatives they have. These initiatives include: Mobile Medical Care in remote areas around the world, Family Rooms in hospitals to provide a safe and quiet space for families to rest, Grants for non-profit organizations that work in children's health, and Educational Scholarships. Donations from the Great Wolf Lodge Gingerbread event go to 3 local Ronald McDonald houses in Toronto, Hamilton & London Ontario, so you will be supporting local families when you donate. 

I'm so happy that we were able to do our little part to help out this year. A trip to Great Wolf Lodge was the icing on the cake...or should I say gingerbread house ;) 

- Carolyn 

*This was a sponsored trip, but all opinions are 100% my own. Although I wasn't asked to write more about our stay at Great Wolf Lodge, I'll definitely be sharing some tips for anyone planning a trip in a future post. Stay tuned!

**If you're not headed to Great Wof Lodge this season, but would still like to make a donation to local Ronald McDonald Houses, please follow the link.

Awesome Summer Pop Ups in the 6ix!

The city is bursting with summer fun and a few of my favourite online stores are having amazing summer Pop Up Shops, so I thought I would share the details. 

Pop up shops have become such a fun way to meet amazing online retailers & small local vendors, and get a chance to see the products up close and in person. Plus they often come with exclusive offers that can't be beat! Check out these 2 great upcoming sales!

1. The Toronto Urban Collective

Voted as one of the Best Summer Markets, The Toronto Urban Collective brings together a collection of the city's finest local artists, craft makers, photographers, designers and artisan chefs. With dozens of beautiful vendors to meet, products to see, and delicious food to taste, this is a summer event you don't want to miss! 

This year our friends Amelie & Max will be at The Toronto Urban Collective showing off their carefully curated line of beautiful and sustainable clothing, skin care and decor for the whole family.  *Use Promo: MOVIEMOM for $10 off purchases over $50 

Sunday August 7th 11AM - 6PM
The Bram & Bluma Appel Salon at
the Toronto Reference Library
789 Yonge Street 

More Info or to Buy Tickets 

2. Family Friendly Summer Pop Up Shop

This FREE family-friendly Summer Pop Up Shop is hosted by our good friends Bonjour Baby Baskets, Minimodel Gallery & Emily D Photography. With over 70% off on beautiful clothing, toys and decor for baby and kids, plus free lemonade, face painting, balloon twisting, photo sessions & Awesome Giveaways, this is definitely an event you want to add to your calendar. 

August 12 & 13 10AM - 5PM
August 14 12PM - 6PM
Real Estate Homeward Brokerage
2035 Danforth Ave

More Info

Hope you have fun checking out these awesome summer sales. I know I will!

- Carolyn

My 7 Tips & Tricks For Camping With Kids – Part 2 of 2

Thanks to everyone who read Part 1 of My Camping with Kids Series My 6 Top Must Haves For Camping With Kids.  Today in Part 2, I’m sharing My 7 Tips & Tricks for Camping with Kids. 

With a few decades of camping trips under my belt, and a couple of years now with kiddos in tow, I have managed to come up with a few things that I hope help you on your next camping adventure.

My 7 Tips & Tricks for Camping With Kids
 
1. Pack in Ziploc Bags: Although we try to minimize how many plastic bags we use at home on a daily basis, ziploc bags are great for packing for camping. They keep things clean and dry and can be reused after the trip. Pack a bag for each category eg. a bag for toilet paper (plus an extra emergency roll); a bag for sunscreen & bugspray; a bag for books & cards etc.

*Please Note: Anything valuable eg. Cell Phone, Camera, GPS, should be kept in something that is guaranteed to be waterproof like a Pelican case. 

2. Freeze Water, Wine & Juice: When you’re camping with kids a cooler of some type is usually necessary. To save space and weight, freeze your water bottles, tetra packs of wine and juice boxes, and use them as freezer packs to keep your dairy, meat and produce cold for a few days. Works like a charm. 

3. Make Baggie Pancakes: We love to make banana blueberry pancakes while camping. To keep it simple I pack the mix (homemade or store bought) into a large ziploc freezer bag and write how much water to add on the outside of the bag. When it’s time to make breakfast I add the water directly into the bag, toss in a ripe peeled banana, zip it up, and have fun mushing it all around. When mixed and ready, I cut a hole in the corner of the bag and squeeze out the mixture onto a hot greased pan. I recommend adding the blueberries by hand, as they tend to block the hole, and if the hole is made too big your mix will pour out too fast.

Cook over the fire or on a camping stove & watch your kids devour them.

4. Pack Clothes You Don’t Mind Getting Dirty: Camping is really really messy. Way messier than you think. Plus campfire smell is pretty strong and can stay in fibres for a long time, even after being laundered. In order to embrace the mess that comes with camping, you need to ditch your kid’s favourite fancy duds at home and bring breathable, comfortable, dark coloured clothes that your kids can have fun in.

5. If You Don’t Have The Gear, Borrow It Or Rent It: If you’re lacking a specific piece of equipment and can’t afford to invest in it right away, reach out and see if any friends or family can loan it to you. Another amazing option is the MEC Equipment Rental. For only a few dollars a day you can rent tents, sleeping bags & food barrels, as well as additional gear for water sports, climbing, snow sports etc. It’s a great option for those needing a short term piece of gear.

6. Keep Snacks Accessible At All Times: Kid’s get hangry (hungry + angry), especially when you’re on the go. Make sure to keep some protein rich snacks and water close at hand, so you can feed them at all times. It’s no fun listening to a kid scream for an entire paddle, portage or hike cause they’re suddenly STARVING!!! Everyone on the lake will thank you for this one.

7. Be Prepared for Emergencies: Minor bumps, bruises, cuts and burns are bound to happen when you’re out exploring the wilderness. Being prepared with a proper 1st Aid Kit is important, but it’s also essential that you know how to deal with some of the more life threatening emergencies that can come up. As a Heart & Stroke Foundation Instructor I highly recommend taking a 1st Aid & CPR Course from an accredited group every few years. Shameless Plug: Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you would like to register for one of my scheduled workshops, or are interested in having me come to teach a workshop for a group in your space (email care@with-care.ca). I offer live and virtual CPR & safety workshops for families, the general public, employees & health care providers. 

I hope My 7 Tips & Tricks For Camping With Kids help you and your little ones have fun & stay safe on your next family adventure. Check out my Complete Family Camping List to help you pack for your next big adventure. Happy Camping!

– Care

DIY Family Halloween Costume Inspiration

Every September as fall rolls in I think about Halloween and vow not to leave costume making to the last minute. However, every year on Oct 30th I'm scrambling to work my costume magic. 

Luckily this year I have a very eager preschooler keeping me on track. So when Ben informed me yesterday that "Halloween is really soon mama!" I heeded his warning and hunkered down to do some brainstorming and research to figure out the perfect costume for our family. You'll have to wait till Halloween to see our final pick!

Do you need some Halloween costume inspiration?

Check out a few of our DIY family costumes from recent years, plus some other great links to costume ideas below. 

Halloween 2011 - Olive Oyl, Popeye & Swee'Pea

Halloween 2012 DIY - Prince Ronald, The Dragon & The Paperbag Princess

Halloween 2013 DIY - A Family of Garden Gnomes

I love making DIY costumes because they save us money and often use repurposed & recycled clothing & materials which means less waste for our environment. Although I love to sew, I don't see the point in spending a ton of time sewing a costume that will be worn for a matter of hours, so my Halloween DIYs usually involve a trip to the local thrift store and the craft store followed by lots of pinning, stapling & glue gunning. Crafting at it's finest ;)  Keep it simple and have fun!

If you need more inspiration check out these 32 Family Halloween Costumes That Will Make You Want To Have Kids , or these hilarious Sexy Halloween Costumes for Mom & don't miss out on these 34 Babies In Halloween Costumes The Whole World Needs To See. 

- Care