Join Me At The Total Mom Show + 2 Ways To WIN Tickets! + 15% OFF

As a busy mom it’s so easy to get caught up in placing our children’s wellness ahead of our own, and forgetting to give ourselves the time and attention we need to thrive. That’s why I’m so excited to be taking part in The Total Mom Show this February. An incredible local event that is geared toward educating, supporting, and celebrating Moms. Sounds pretty amazing to me!

There’s so much going on at this show that I thought I would break it down and give you all the details, plus a chance to WIN some tickets, and get a sweet discount!

The Total Mom Show is unlike any other out there for moms. The 2 day festival will feature immersive activities, expert speakers, vibrant panel discussions, and two interactive floors of local vendors focussing on all things mom. Participants can indulge in some epic pampering in the Face Forward Zone. Simply pre-book your appointment via the Total Mom Show App and enjoy a treatment at the show. Once you’re sufficiently relaxed you'll want to check out the Recipe For Life Zone for a variety of healthy and delicious eats. Then head over to the Mom Life Hacks Zone to learn how to make your busy mom life a little easier.

Another amazing part of The Total Mom Show is The Total Mom Pitch Contest! If you have a great business idea, or could use some help with your small business start up, you need to apply. The contest will take place on day 1 (February 9th) and will give 5 chosen applicants an opportunity to present a 5-7 minute pitch to a panel of successful entrepreneurs. The winner will receive a cash prize, as well as complimentary services from the amazing panel of judges. This is an incredible prize, so make sure to enter & let your mompreneur friends know, so they can apply for a chance to WIN!

Tickets to The Total Mom Show are on Sale, but don’t wait too grab yours! There are a limited number of VIP BAGS left + Limited spots available in the Face Forward beauty Lounge. Use Code @with_care15 for 15% off your ticket.

After telling you all these amazing things, I thought it was only fair to give away some tickets! I’ll be doing a giveaway for a pair of tickets (valued at over $100!) on my Instagram, so head over and ENTER for your chance to Win! Plus come to Movies for Mommies at the Humber Cinema on Monday January 14th (Aquaman) & 21st (The Upside) to be entered for a chance to WIN Tickets to The Total Mom Show. Movie starts at 1pm and doors open at 12:30pm.

Hope to see you on Monday at the movies, and at The Total Mom Show in February.

- Care

How To Use A Ring Sling With A Newborn

Getting the hang of a ring sling can take some practice, but they’re such great carriers once you do. I love ring slings because they’re super lightweight and fold up small making them perfect for tossing in my diaper bag or purse, so I’m always prepared while we’re out and about. Kind of essential with 4 kids ;)

Join me and my 5 week old baby Freddy to learn how to use a ring sling safely and comfortably. In this video I’m featuring a linen ring sling by Potter & Pehar. I absolutely love the soft neutral colour of this Elora sling, but to be honest it’s hard to choose a fav from their gorgeous collection. Potter & Pehar products are beautifully designed to simplify motherhood, and I love that they’re all made locally in Toronto. Plus the business is owned and run by two kick ass women (Shelley & Tina), who are always available for customer support via email, facebook, and instagram. I have several Potter & Pehar slings, and have personally used them with my babes and while teaching at my monthly Free Community Babywearing Drop In. This is definitely a biz that feels good to support. You can use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% off Potter & Pehar.

I hope you enjoyed my video. Please comment below with any questions, and let me know if you have any topics you would like me to cover in the future. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay up to date of all of my new videos.

- Care

In This Post:

“Elora” Ring Sling: Potter & Pehar *Use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% Off | How To Thread A Ring Sling Video

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend

*The information in this video is meant to help you learn about safe babywearing. There are many ways to safely use a carrier, but I demonstrate how I typically teach ring sling use. Please always refer to your particular baby carrier manual to ensure proper and safe use. The information provided does not constitute individual advice or consultation and should not be used as such. 

Self Care In Pregnancy: The Ultimate Indulgence - Ste. Anne’s Spa

As a busy mom of 3 (with my 4th on the way) it’s a rare treat to be able to pack my bags and head out of the city for a little R&R. When I do, I’m always reminded just how essential it is. Life as a parent can get so overwhelming. Taking a day to disconnect, breathe in the country air, and indulge your body, mind and spirit, is always worth it. My absolute favourite place, that's not too far from home, is Ste. Anne’s Spa. Located in the beautiful farmland of Grafton Ontario, the entire estate at Ste. Anne’s is a dream. I have visited a few times and have never been disappointed. The atmosphere, food, staff, and spa services are absolutely top notch.

During this trip I was joined by 3 of my lifelong girlfriends and it really was the perfect day together. My friends who had never experienced Ste. Anne’s were absolutely blown away by everything. We enjoyed a delicious and decadent lunch and high tea.

Took a scenic walk to the barns to get some fresh air and see the horses.

Enjoyed time in the heated pool (typically open until Canadian Thanksgiving).

And of course indulged in some amazing spa services. Since I’m 7 months pregnant I decided to try out a few of Ste. Anne’s signature treatments that are safe in pregnancy. I know for some pregnant mamas the idea of going to a new place and having a massage during pregnancy can be concerning. Ste. Anne’s does offer prenatal massage, which is generally safe in pregnancy (speak to your health care provider if you are a high risk pregnancy or have any concerns) but I thought I would highlight a few of their other safe treatments. The 2 treatments I had were absolutely amazing, and totally provided the relaxation I was dreaming of.

Essential Oil Scalp Rejuvenation

I have to start this by saying that I LOVE having my head touched. I wish someone would play with my hair every day. Now I know some people absolutely hate having their heads touched (I don’t judge you, but I also don’t understand you ;)…so please note this is not a service you will enjoy unless you like scalp massage.

During this 30 minute rejuvenating scalp treatment my hair and scalp was massaged with a delicious smelling essential oil/coconut oil mix, followed by brushing it through my long locks. They recommend you leave the oil on for 2-12 hours after your treatment, so this can be a messy affair, but the end result was the softest, shiniest hair ever, and some serious stress relief.

Firming Mud Facial

This treatment was such a perfect mix for a pregnant mama. It started off with a foot soak and scrub that felt amazing on my tired achy legs and feet, and was followed by an incredible firming mud facial. As someone who has very sensitive skin I love that the Ste. Anne’s line of skin care products are so natural and don’t irritate my face at all. The moor mud was so luxurious and it was a lovely treat to receive a soothing arm, hand and scalp massage while it was soaking in. By the time it was done I was in a totally blissed out state.

Every time I come to Ste. Anne’s I leave dreaming about when I can return. I would say that’s a good sign. Maybe next time I’ll convince the hubby to come with me and we’ll stay over in one of their beautiful rooms or cottages. A girl can dream.

If you’re interested in planning a trip to this little slice of heaven, make sure you sign up for the Ste. Anne’s email newsletter. You’ll receive updates on special offers at the spa, and hear about upcoming seasonal events. Whatever season you visit in, you’re sure to have an amazing time.

- Care

In The Post:

Ste. Anne’s Spa | Care’s Maternity Swim Suit: Amazon

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

The Heavy Flow Podcast With Care

I'm really excited/totally terrified to share this with everyone. A few weeks ago I was a guest on my first ever podcast. As someone who firmly hates listening to their own voice (I hear it's common), and who is a bit anxious about being an "expert" speaker (I know that's silly since i'm a midwife and teacher, but it's true), this was a bit outside of my comfort zone. I have know Amanda Laird, the amazing creator of The Heavy Flow Podcast for over a year now, since meeting at one of my CPR workshops that she attended with her partner and adorable daughter Maisie. Amanda and I hit it off right away and have stayed friends since, so when she asked me to be on The Heavy Flow I knew I had to toss my fears aside and do it. 

Each week on The Heavy Flow Amanda chats with guests about all the nitty gritty health and wellness topics that are currently too taboo for our society to put out in the open. Informative and casual conversations like these about menstruation, fertility, childbirth, menopause, birth control, sexuality, mental health, hormonal health and reproductive health, are so integral as a step toward making this information accessible to all people. I absolutely love this podcast and highly recommend subscribing to it so you don't miss any of these amazing discussions. As Amanda says "We are not truly empowered until we all understand the bodies we live in." I couldn't agree more. 

In my episode Amanda asks me about the stuff that we don't talk about when it comes to pregnancy, childbirth & early parenting. We talk about realistic expectations, physiologic labour and birth, informed choice, support, and how your birth experience can impact your life as a new parent. Plus we laugh a lot. I can't wait for you to hear it. **Please note that we talk about birth trauma in this episode**

Care 

Join Me At The Bump To Baby Show, Fall 2017 + Ticket GIVEAWAY!!

I'm so excited to be taking part in The Bump to Baby Show's 1st ever fall show on Saturday October 21st at The Riverdale Hub. I always love the spring show because it's such a great group of finely curated local businesses, that genuinely love to help and support expectant and new families in our communities. The Bump to Baby Show is a much slower pace show than most giant baby shows out there, but that's another element that I really enjoy. As a participating business I love being able to connect with guests, and give them an opportunity to ask questions and learn about what I offer. 

This fall's show has an incredible Marketplace, Kids Activities, a fun Photo Booth, Swags Bags, Prenatal Yoga and amazing Guest Speakers. 

Yours truly will be speaking with The Big Carrot at 2pm about Healthy Snacks for Busy Families. Join me for some live food demos and healthy recipes for pregnancy, starting solids and your growing kiddos. Plus some awesome Swag and Giveaways!  Pre-Register for my talk Here

Advance Tickets to the show are $5 and come with a complimentary cotton tote filled with amazing swag. Admission at the Door is $10 per adult **Please Note: Bumps, Babies, Kids & Grandparents are FREE! Add The Bump to Baby Show to your calendar on October 21st and buy your tickets now! 

If you have a baby on the way, or a young family in tow, this is the show to attend. Don't miss out! ENTER for a Chance to WIN a pair of tickets to The Bump to Baby Show.

To Enter simply comment below with your name and email address, or alternatively you may comment below and submit your email address to care@with-care.ca for entry. Plus make sure to check out our Facebook page & Instagram feed for 2 more ways to enter!  Contest is open to anyone 25+ and closes Saturday September 30th at 11pm EST. A winner will be chosen at random and contacted within 24 hours. Good Luck!

Learn More + Buy Advance Tickets to Save 50%

Hope to see you at the show!

Care xo

Introducing With Care - Education & Inspiration From Pregnancy Through Parenthood (Formerly Fifty-Seven)

I'm so excited to announce the official arrival of With Care - Education & Inspiration from Pregnancy Through Parenthood.

Some of you might have noticed changes on my social media and website over the last few months as I was getting ready to launch With Care. Little hints that something new and exciting was coming. As you can imagine things don't happen quickly with several munchkins in tow, so thanks for your patience. 

For the last few years I have been running my classes and workshops through my business Fifty-Seven, and recently moved my blog to With Care. Although I felt like I had built up a community brand with Fifty-Seven, I felt a pull toward something else. Offering all of my Classes & Workshops, Community Events, Amazing Partnerships, Blog Posts and Videos in one place seemed like a dream. Well, I finally decided to do the work and make that dream a reality. After a long and gruelling rebrand I'm so happy with how everything has come together. One of my favourite parts is my logo, which was created by tracing my mom's handwriting. I love having a little piece of her with me on this journey. 

So what is With Care? Living a life With Care means choosing products and services wisely, with the earth and your family's health and wellness in mind. It means becoming educated and informed so you can make choices that work for your individual family. It means creating a home and life that makes your family thrive. I'm here to provide a little education & inspiration to help you do that. 

I would love if you would take a minute check out With Care and follow me on social media - Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter & Pinterest. I have lots of amazing Giveaways, informative posts and videos, as well as amazing classes and workshops coming up this spring and summer. You can also stay up to date by signing up for my newsletter. As always feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or topics you would like covered, or if you need any assistance registering for classes or booking a private in-home session. 

I want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to my community. Thanks to all of the amazing families and businesses that I have worked with over the last 4 years. I can't wait to see where the next 4 take me.

I hope you enjoy what's to come With Care. 

Warmly,

Care xo

*I'd also like to send a huge Thank You to everyone who has made this project possible. My amazing friend Laurence, my cousin Sarah who made my logo, Danielle for my beautiful promotonal materials, and 2 of my favourite photographers Silvia (Anchor Studios - Pregnancy & Outdoor Photos) & Carrie (Four Bees - Newborn Photos) for these beautiful images.

Have A Bump Or A Baby? Don't Miss The Bump To Baby Show 2017!

Spring is here and that means it's baby show season! With so many shows and so little time, it can be tough to decide which ones make the cut. If you want to skip the huge crowds, long line ups and over zealous vendors, you need to check out The Bump to Baby Show. This highly curated event held at the beautiful Wychwood Barns brings together the best vendors from around our city, all with a focus on helping parents make healthy choices for their families. Plus it's FREE!! You can't get much better than that.

In addition to an amazing marketplace (*Full List of 60 Marketplace Vendors) the show has expert speakers and fun family friendly events. I am so honoured to be one of the speakers at the show, alongside my amazing colleague Taya Griffin (Lactation Consultant) & Joy McCarthy of Joyous Health.

Attendees can check out a Prenatal Yoga Class with & She Moves (pre-registered event), a Family Yoga Class with Spynga, a fun Puppet Show with The Waldorf Academy, as well as a music class for kids ages 0-4 years with Music Together. Check out the Play & Learn page for full schedule, details and registration. 

The Bump to Baby Show is like no other in the city. So if you're expecting a little one, or have a young family, don't forget to add this amazing event to your calendar.

Hope to see you on May 7th between 10am and 4pm for the family friendly baby show you can't miss. 

Care 

Congrats On Your Move Diaper-eez!

Our good friends at Diaper-eez made a big move this past weekend. We're sad to see them leave the Bloor West strip, but we're so happy that they're staying in the neighbourhood. Their Bloor Street location closed on February 19th and their new boutique location at 501 Runnymede Rd (Runnymede & Annette) opened yesterday. Drop by to check out the new shop and mention With-Care for 10% off*. If you can't make it in to the store, head online and use code withcare for 10% off*

 

Diaper-eez new store hours at 501 Runnymede Rd.

• Tuesday-Friday: 12pm-5pm
• Saturday: 10am-5pm
• Sunday-Monday: Closed

Thanks for shopping small and supporting our local stores. 

- Care 

*Some restrictions apply