12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 12 For the Coffee Lover

With the rush of the season, nothing goes perfectly once you kick your feet up then a nice cup of freshly brewed coffee.

One of my favourite must-haves in the home is a Keurig Coffee Brewing System (you can find the B60 featured on my 2012 Holiday Gift Guide).  

Coffee has never tasted better and been more convenient and quick to make then with my new Keurig - I just love it!

As a busy work at home mom, I cannot fathom how much a good cup of coffee or tea does for me and my productivity (and sanity).  My fellow moms let's toast our cuppa's to that, shall we?

A great company that I came across in Toronto is Home Coffee Solutions that provides an in-store + showroom and online shopping for best quality Coffee/Tea supplies and accessories.

They have such an amazing collection of products and I especially cannot get over their K-Cup Selection! Many of which I cannot find in my local stores. 

They also carry many other brewers, accessories and coffee/tea products to suit your needs at great prices!

I remember when I use to work in Corporate Canada and one of the most favored part of my hectic work day was when I stopped off mid-day for my daily coffee fix.  I spent way too much money on it and would have saved some bucks had my office carried their own decent coffee maker.

This was another complaint from friends during the college years that were roomed up in dormitories with a very lousy and sub-par coffee machine.

The Keurig B130 is the perfect coffee maker for those looking for a more compact size and perfect for in-room brewing such as offices, dorms, hotels, even if you have limited counter space at home and don't want to skimp out on quality coffee!

Regular retail value of the Keurig B130 is $99.99, but Home Coffee Solutions currently has a great Holiday special for $40 off at $59.99!

On the Final Day 12 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, I am giving away a Keurig B130 and Box of K-Cups {ARV $115} for the Coffee Lover on your List!

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*Open to Canada only.

Ends 12/12.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 11 with Voluspa

My name is Carol and I have an addiction to Scented Candles.

They add an element of romantic ambiance and warmth to any room, not to mention the beautiful essence that fills the air.

I have learned though that with candles, you definitely get what you pay for.

A friend of mine from California sent me this delicious set of Voluspa Candles and that is when my impassioned love affair with Voluspa began.

These yummy scents evoke a luxurious, soft whiff, one that is more like a luxurious perfume.  The great thing is that unlike other strong scented candles, they aren't overpowering to the point where you feel nauseous after sniffing for too long.
They also come in the prettiest packaging and keepsake containers.

Voluspa is a SoCal based company that makes the most decadent candles and fragrances for the home.  The best part about Volupsa, is that their packaging and design is just as luxurious as their products.  Everything about this brand screams luxurious and charming. 
Each of their collections has a slightly different look and feel, while keeping the brand as a whole cohesive and elegant.
My favourite collection would definitely have to be their Maison Blanc Collection with a family of dainty, delicate and delightful aromas.

2 Wick 11 oz Metallo Candle - Saijo Persimmon {ARV $16} 

One of my favourite's is the Saijo Persimmon scent.
Japanese saijo persimmon is considered to be the finest gourmet variety, layered with juicy peach and red currant in a coconut blend.

11 oz Laguna (Maison Blanc) 2 wick  Metallo candle

Another definite must-have from the Maison Blanc Collection is Laguna.

Laguna makes me feel like I'm relaxing on the velvet sand next to dazzling azure seas. 

With a fresh blend of California verbena and white freesia, this scent will be sure to induce light and breezy feelings. 

All 11oz candles have a burning time of approximately 50 hours.

Classic 12 oz Maison Candle - Macaron {ARV $27}

One of their newest scents takes me back to my home away from home, land of romance, art and the best desserts... Paris, of course!
One of my favored sweet and crunchy delicacies from Paris, Macarons, comes to life in the Voluspa Macaron candle.
Delicious and colorful, the fame macarons de Paris are beloved for their color as they are for their gourmet flavors.

All  hand poured luxury Voluspa candle are made with Natural Apricot & Coconut wax.

The Classic Jar Candle is housed in an elegant white glass container that will blend with most decors and can be recycled as a vase or pencil cup after the candle is finished burning. However, you'll have to wait approximately 100 hours as it has quite the extended burn time.

I cannot express enough how much I love these candles, especially the new Macaron candle! Perfect with a good read, a glass of wine and some macarons of course!

Notable Voluspa retailers include Fred Segal, Bloomingdales, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Stanley Korshak, Saks Fifth Avenue, Selfridges (London), Harvey Nichols (Dubai), Lane Crawford (Hong Kong), and NK (Stockholm).

On Day 11 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, I'm bringing one of my readers the gift of Scent with a set of Voluspa Candles including: One 2 Wick 11 oz Metallo Candle - Saijo Persimmon, one 2 Wick 11 oz Metallo Candle - Laguna and one Classic 12 oz Maison Candle - Macaron {Total ARV $59}.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 10 with Kate Spade

Shopping can be a little bit of a dangerous sport for me.  Let me explain before I get judged for being yet another absent-mided, materialistic spend-a-holic.

I'm actually pretty frugal but when I step into a shop that screams "Carol Au Courant" which includes decently priced, beautiful and high quality items, I can be in there for hours and will almost never walk out empty-handed.

One of the biggest issues with some of my most coveted brands are that they are situated in the US and purchasing online to ship to Canada can get more expensive than necessary.

I was over-the-moon thrilled when I found out that one of my top favourite designer, Kate Spade New York, was opening in Yorkdale Mall in Toronto among many other favourites of mine!

Photo Credits: TorontoLife.com

When you see Kate Spade, you see Vibrant, Dainty & Blissful Elegance! These are all the things I adore about this brand.  Walking into one of their shops says it all! Always a warm reception and you will surely fall in love.

Some of my favourite current items from Kate Spade include their iPhone Cases, Wallets & Coin Purses and Accessories!

Always oozing playful sophistication and affirmations that will bring a smile to your soul, why not dress up one of the items you carry around most, your iPhone!

I love, love, love my brand new LE PAVILION IPHONE CASE.  

Signature polka dots with pink trim and Have Courage engraved inside, it was the perfect case for my iPhone!  This case retails for $40 but the iPhone cases range from $35-$40.

Another product I love are their Wallets and especially these super adorable coin purses!

Loving these cheeky leather coin purses!

Made of thick, soft & smooth cowhide with matching trim and 14-karat light gold plated hardware, these coin purses are playfully adorned with a few fun hashtags that every woman can relate to! 

It comes with a KSNY embossed gold spade charm and pre-boxed which makes it the perfect little gift or stocking stuffer!

Aren't they awesome?

Retail value for each is $78.00.

A great hostess gift or stuffing stuffer would be these adorable Kate Spade Paper Gem Coasters.

Crafted of thick paper in a pretty gem motif, add some sparkle and style all while saving your coffee table with these oh-so-chic Paper Gem Coasters!

They retail for $20.00.

On Day 10 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, a colourful reader of mine will win a few of my Kate Spade favourites which include: Le Pavilion iPhone Case (iPhone 4/S or 5), one coin purse and Paper Gem Coasters {ARV $138}!

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Ends 12/12.

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12 Day of Holiday Giveaways Day 9: Gift of PLAY

Whatever your age, giving the gift of play is always sure to bring smiles, joy and lots of laughter.

After all, the saying is true: "Play is our brain's favourite way of learning."

As parents and adults, we tend to grow up forgetting what the simple joys of pure fun and play was all about.

If we are to look back at some of the most memorable Christmas mornings opening up that special gift as little children, I'm sure socks wouldn't be on the top of most memorable.

Okay, my point is not to disregard any type of gift that was given from the heart, but to remind us that as children... 

we were meant to love, need, want, and enjoy the gifts of play.

Toys "R" Us has been around for many years (I still remember walking into this store as little child, eyes big with excitement and wonder) and  is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands.

Anything you are looking for, even things you weren't but happened to stumble upon and fall in love with, you will find at Toys "R" Us.

I love the fact that they also have a specialty shop strictly for all things Babies, Babies "R" Us.  I have used them for my first baby shower registry and for most of my baby/nursery purchases.  

Their online purchasing experience is just as wonderful and easy as their in-store one with quick and efficient shipping.

You can also check out Toys "R" Us' Hot Toys of the Season here on their Facebook page.

In a culture where we tend to worry too much on whether or not our child is learning enough and straying away from the precious art of play, remember that play is learning! 

Let's not take that away from our little ones. 

Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.

~ Kay Renfield Jamison

On Day 9 of 12 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, I'm giving the gift of Fun & Play with a $100 Toys "R" Us Gift Card.

*Open to Canadian Residents only.

Ends 12/12.

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12 Day of Holiday Giveaways: Day 8 Gift of Music

Nothing takes you to more places at once without having to leave where you are then music.

It speaks to you like no other can and all people of all nationalities and language can understand it.

One of the things I love the most about Christmas is the music!

From the classics sung by Elvis Presley and Nat King Cole to the new generation like She & Him and Christina Perri.

My name isn't Carol for nothing, you know.  My grandfather was a big fan of Christmas Carols and actually played a big part in naming me Carolynn.  I grew up with Christmas Carols echoing my home every December and It's just a wonderful coincidence I took a huge liking to the sweet melodies of the season.

I still remember growing up in the church as a young little girl, I'd take part in the choir and Holiday festivities and even memorable times when we would go into the homes of various families (many of which are less fortunate) and sing Christmas Carols.

So much joy this music brings to the hearts of many, especially mine.

Day 8 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, I'm so happy to be sharing the gift of music with you all.  One of my readers will win an amazing Christmas Album including some of my all-time favourite Christmas CD's.

The bundle includes: Michael Buble Christmas, Christina Perri, Mariah Carey's Merry Christmas 11 You, A Jolly Christmas with Frank Sinatra, Blake Shelton Cheer's, it's Christmas, A Very She & Him Christmas, Surfjan Stevens Songs for Christmas & Lady Antebellum On this Christmas Night.

Wow! Give yourself or someone you care for the gift of music.

To enter, simply complete any or all entries below via rafflecopter.

*Open to Canada only. Ends 12/12.

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12 Days of Holidays: Day 7 with Andy Warhol & Nars

Art is an expression of one's inner emotions and can be found all around us.  It doesn't necessarily have to just be found in a painting or sculpture.  If you look around you, at your clothing, your writing, music, the way your plants are placed in your garden or the pictures you have hanging on your wall, you will find art.

Now look at your reflection in the mirror. That, my dears, is the greatest form of art.

Andy Warhol, famed American icon in the fashion industry known as a leading figure in the visual art movement called Pop Art.

If anybody knows self-expression and beauty, he does!

"If you want to know all about Andy Warhol, just look at the surface of my paintings and films and me, and there I am. There’s nothing behind it."

-Andy Warhol 

Browsing through my local specialty department store, I was happy to see the iconic pop art displayed in form of makeup. Yes! 

Andy Warhol has been an inspiration to Francois Nars for many years. Now NARS evokes the cool, image-rich, character-laden world of Warhol with a limited edition NARS Andy Warhol Holday 2012 collection.

You can view the entire collection here.

Both forms of Art, Beauty & Fashion are evident in this amazing and limited edition collection that you must, must, must get your hands on before it's gone (which I hope they intend to keep permanently).

Sparkle this holiday season with the Andy Warhol NARS Collection and shine bright (even for 15 minutes as Andy says).  This is sure to impress all beauty & art lovers alike.

"Everybody is a Superstar. At least for 15 minutes." ~ Andy Warhol

Two of the gift sets from the collection that I adore (and also featured in my 2012 Holiday Gift Guide), is the Andy Warhol Beautiful Darling Gift Set and the Nars Andy Warhol Photo Booth Nail Set.

These are examples of gifts that will last a lifetime of memory even when they're done being used as they come in keepsake Andy Warhol packaging. 

The Beautiful Darling Gift Set is accompanied by a zippered silver deluxe cosmetics bag, and includes nail polish in Candy Darling, Larger Than Life Lip Gloss in Woman in Revolt (hot pink), and duo eyeshadow in Femme Fatale (sheer white shimmer and fresh mint green). Candy Darling, who is featured on the cosmetics case, was a big-personality “blonde-bombshell” transexual actress Warhol cast in his 1971 film Woman in Revolt. She had roles in a number of indie films (and appeared in 1971′s Klute, which starred Jane Fonda), but sadly passed away of lymphoma somewhere around age 30.

Available as of November 1st at Specialty and Department Stores, $55.

Nars Andy Warhol Photo Booth Nail Set

This longwearing formula provides a tough, durable chip-resistant finish and also has added UV protection to prevent polish discoloration. 

Andy Warhol believed a trademark look was essential to achieve superstar status. Certain to make its mark as a cult classic, NARS’ exclusive polish set smolders in camera-ready shades—from tomato soup red to scintillating silver.

Set Includes:

Back Room -- Black

Soup Can -- Vivid red

Chelsea Girls -- Modern beige

Silver Factory -- Aluminum

Warhol’s intense interest in photo booths started in 1963 when Harper’s Bazaar assigned him a story on the arts, and led to his first commissioned portrait.

This set is available at most Specialty and Department stores, $40.

For Day 7 of Carol Au Courant's Holiday Giveaways, one of my beauty-lovin' divas will win both sets, The Beautiful Darling Gift Set and the NARS Andy Warhol Photo Booth Nail Set {$95 Value}

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 6 with 7 A.M. ENFANT

Walking along the snow-kissed sidewalk pushing my baby in his stroller, an enthusiastic four year old scurrying along next to me wrapped snug in her layers of winter wear excitedly pointing out at anything and everything she sees - there I am trying to appease the icicles which are my fingers all while attempting to shoot her a quick smile.

Why from all days did I forget that we're out of diapers? Usually I'm on top of these things.

 Another disadvantage to a one-vehicle family (and living in the burbs) - hubby takes it to work; I have no choice but to make the expedition to the nearby convenience store (which by the way feels a whole lot further than it really is during a cold Winter's day).

Okay in the name of fashion, I just received these gorgeous leather gloves that I thought would keep my hands warm... wrong.

Maybe on another day, but not this day.

Who else understands the mother's needs in constant outdoor travel in cold climates than a French Designer living in New York? If you've been to both Paris and New York in the cold weather, which I have, you'll know what I mean.  Outdoor commuting is frequent in both places and their Winters can get very cold!

I'm talking about the creator of 7 A.M. ENFANT, Rebecca Campora.

I fell in love with their versatile, modern and unisex diaper bags (read my review here); I'm truly a big fan of their product line in general.

Winner of many awards, including PTPA's seal, for their stylish and functional gear, 7 A.M. ENFANT is a great brand that offers an array of gift ideas for that lovely mother to wee ones on your list.

Now had I had a pair of their WarMMuffs, I would have saved my fingers the agony.

7AM continue to bring families comfort by providing a smart solution for the winter season, making the cold outdoors a time to enjoy for the person pushing the baby stroller. While securely holding the stroller the caregiver’s hands are kept cozy and warm, with the flexibility of easily using bare hands to tend to the needs of the child.

You can learn more about 7 A.M. ENFANT and all their fabulous products at: www.7amenfant.com.

On Day 6 of Carol's Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways along with 7 A.M. Enfant I'm giving the gift of warmth with a pair of 7 A.M. Enfant HM500 WarMMuffs.

Enter in the rafflecopter below to win! 

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 5 with Kobo

There's this quote from Groucho Marx: “I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book.”  

Funny but very true!

I find it so appropriate, especially  in this day of overly tanned grease-heads and catty woman fighting for the "love" of a cruddy businessman being a form of entertainment.

But hey, if you happen to enjoy those kinds of things, why not kill two birds with one stone with something that provides all of what keeps you entertained AND offer you a great place to read.

Have you Kobo'd yet? 

I received The Kobo Vox literally a few months it came out & was immensely excited! Loved everything about it.  The fact that not only did I have my portable bookshelf with me and access to so many new reads in full colour, but also magazines, movies, TV shows, music, apps, games, web browsing and more.

Loved the Children's Books and Educational Games they offered in their App store - always a great way to keep my little one entertained during long road trips.

Let me just say reading the Fifty Shades or the Sylvia Day Collection was much more discreet and enjoyable with my handy Kobo Vox.

They come in a variety of colours too!

Now Kobo also offers more amazing eReaders to their eReader Family.

Really loving their Kobo Mini and Kobo Glo!

The Kobo Mini  is great if you're looking for a portable, lightweight eReader (perfect for students!) and the Kobo Glo with it's Exclusive ComfortLight technology offering even, natural lighting that is fully adjustable to get the right light for you. This was featured in my 2012 Holiday Gift Guide here.

Notice that seal on the majority of Kobo eReaders? If you're a parent and don't know what seal that is yet, what rock have you been hiding under? I kid. Sort of.

PTPA, Parent Tested, Parent Approved is the leading product awards program with the largest parent-testing community and seal of approval recognized worldwide.

I was not only chosen to be a fortunate PTPA Tester early last year but I'm also a proud PTPA team member as well.  I've worked as their Socal Media Community Manager and now Project Manager for their Brand Marketing Programs.

I couldn't be more proud and content to be working for a company that has the goal and vision to connect and share with Parents and helping wonderful brands leverage their presence by connecting them directly with their target market.

Thanks to PTPA and Kobo, for Day 5 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, you have the chance to win their popular Kobo Vox!

To win this gift, simply enter below via rafflecopter.

*Open to Canadians only. Ends 12/12.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 4 with DAVIDsTEA

I can't think of anything more comforting then coming in from a chilly trek outdoors to a roaring fireplace and a warm drink.
It's truly about the simple pleasures, isn't it?
What's your winter beverage of choice?
If you're a tea-lover like me, then you will absolutely love DAVIDsTEA.

DAVIDsTEA, contemporary, inspired and passionate about great-tasting tea with over 150 types of tea, including exclusive blends, limited edition seasonal collections, traditional straight teas and exotic fusions from around the globe. Not to mention the largest collection of organic teas and infusions in North America.

Every time I walk into the mall, I never leave without dropping by DAVIDsTEA for a cup of tea and almost always leave with some tea and/or an accessory to bring home.  I have a slight obsession with mugs and tea cups/pots. Love them!

It's a given that if you surprise someone, whether a close family member, friend, or even a neighbor or co-worker the gift of tea, it's always bound to bring a smile to their face.  Especially if it's DAVIDsTEA.

Check out these truly decadent flavours in The Winter Collection!
What's also great about these sample boxes filled with samples of different teas is that you don't have to worry if the recipient is a teabie (tea newbie) - this is the perfect introduction!

You can learn more about DAVIDsTEA on their website at: www.davidstea.com and also keep track of updates and specials on Facebook or Twitter.

For Day 4 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, one of my readers will win this amazing Winter Collection.
It's up to you if you want to gift it to someone special or save it for yourself for those cozy nights in.

Enter below via rafflecopter to be eligible to win.
*Open to Canadians only.  Ends 12/12.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways Day 3: Introducing The Red Bow

There's a quote from famed designer Coco Chanel, "Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky; in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening."

I couldn't agree more. The style you carry blazes far more than the material aspect, it's a lifestyle.

You represent what you love, what speaks to your soul.

I think The Red Bow Shoppe adopted the right state of mind when the birth of their newest brand & business came to surface.

Their philosophy 'add a little red bow luxury' and their vision: Youthful Luxe.

If you're a fan of the oh-so-adorable and beloved Hello Kitty, you will absolutely L-O-V-E The Red Bow.

They are an online shoppe inspired by Hello Kitty and the Iconic 'Red Bow' for fashionable, grown-up Hello Kitty fans with luxe taste.

Words cannot describe my gaiety about this.

Not only do I adore that famed feline, my young daughter (without coercion) has embraced Hello Kitty as well.  In fact, her most recent 4th Birthday party was a Hello Kitty theme and if you see her bedroom you would think a tornado swept through Sanrio headquarters and magically released all of it's Hello Kitty paraphernalia in her room.

My Hello Kitty-Loving Little Girl on her 4th Birthday

What I love most about The Red Bow is that they are bringing you Hello Kitty items that aren't screaming overly juvenile.  

That seems to be the big issue when you have an adoration for youthful characters and look to embody it into your day-to-day.  Their collection is truly catering to the fashionable adult female demographic... that just so happens to have a fondness for Hello Kitty.

They prove that rocking Hello Kitty (or any other cherished childhood character) as adults doesn't have to have to be immature and they do it so fashionably well.

Au courant all the way, don't you think? 

Another thing I love? My new iPhone! And if you're like me, I've been obsessed with dressing up my new little investment as pretty as possible (and of course protecting it too!).

On top of their gorgeous collection, they carry Mobile Accessories too and I'm totally smitten by their iPhone cases!

The 'Chrome Luxe' Hello Kitty iPhone 4 Hard Case ($29.99) is absolutely perfect for my phone!

It comes in Silver, Gold *limited Edition*, Red & Black.

A very chic Hello Kitty chrome-look high-gloss metallic and clear plastic hard case for iPhone 4, 4G & 4S.

Another super cute item is their Anti-Dust Plugs.  Loving this 'Sparkle' Bow Anti Dust Plug Charm, especially in red!

The Rhinestone Bow Anti-Dust Plugs not only protect your cell phones' earphone jack port from dust and lint, it also adds a little 'sparkle' in total style!

Fits all devices with standard 3.5mm earphone jack including iPhone 4, 4G, 4S, Samsung and Blackberry smartphones.

It comes in: Sparkle Red, Sparkle Pink, Sparkle Magenta, Sparkle White, Sparkle Violet & Sparkle Black.

The Red Bow Shoppe is currently running their PRE-LAUNCH POP-UP SHOPPE before they officially launch in Spring of next year & I just cannot wait for it! They have limited quantities available on their site so head on over there while supplies last & also a sneak peak until their big launch in 2013! 

I want it all but I just have to point out the ultra stunning RARE Ladurée Paris x Hello Kitty Letter Stationery Set and Hello Kitty Purse Charm! (*Hint to hubby who will be reading this*)

You can visit them online at: www.theredbow.ca and while you're there make sure to sign up to their newsletter for updates at: hello@theredbow.ca.

They're also on Twitter & Instagram @redbowshoppe and Facebook at: facebook.com/redbowshoppe.

On Day 3 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, a lucky Hello Kitty-loving reader of mine will win a 'Chrome Luxe' Hello Kitty iPhone 4 Hard Case in Silver and a 'Sparkle' Bow Anti Dust Plug Charm in Sparkle Red {$35.00 CDN}

*Open to Canadian Residents only. Ends 12/12.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 2 For the Foodie

Nothing says Christmas like delectable treats and enticing dishes.

The smell of cinnamon, vanilla, gingerbread and many other tantalizing and familiar scents filling the home as we prepare for the Holiday festivities. I love it!

I have a huge collection of Cook Books and also tend to use my iPhone or Tablet for recipes but truthfully come this time of year, I like to stick to the well-known dishes that my family and I all love.

It's always nice to look forward to those very special recipes.

For that, I have a wonderful collection of recipe cards I have gathered throughout the years of favourites including those very reserved and personal secret ones passed down from my mother and grandmother.

The Recipe Rock from Architec ($12.49) is a stylish rock and magnet that holds up to eight pages of any printed recipe angled upright, and doesn't eat up precious counter space. 

They come in a variety of colour choices too.  How cute is it?! 

Another must-have for every foodie on your list is definitely a cutting board.  Not just any cutting board though. Check out another fabulous product from Architec, The Original Gripper Cutting Board ($6.99 - $19.99). It's the perfect non-slip grip cutting board, made of high-quality, knife-friendly, BPA-free polypropylene. Your home cook can mix and match with nine great colours to choose from!

Both items can be purchased across Canada at Sears, Home Outfitters, London Drugs, and gourmet shops. Online retailers include Cayne’s Superhousewares (cayneshousewares.com), Cookworks (cookworks.ca), Golda’s Kitchen (goldaskitchen.com), London Drugs (londondrugs.com).

For Day 2 of Carol Au Courant's 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, you can win The Recipe Rock and an Original Gripper Cutting Board in your choice of colour! Perfect for the foodie on your list (or for you)!

To enter, simply enter via rafflecopter below. Quick entries! 

Ends 12/12/12.

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12 Days of Holiday Giveaways: Day 1 with PlasmaCar

There's no sound more gratifying and sweet then that of a child's laughter.
And another thing more delightful? Especially for a mother? When our child is getting exercise and having fun doing it!
A few months ago I graciously took up the offer to review the innovative PlasmaCar.  I've seen this in Chapters Indigo multiple times and my daughter never left without riding one.
I loved the fact that this ride-on operated on pure energy and zero batteries! It carries up to 100kg (220 lbs) on solid surface, comes in a variety of colours and SO MUCH FUN!
Believe me, I've been on it.  Actually, every member of my household including family and friends that are over have been in on the PlasmaCar action -- definitely brings in the kid in you, no matter the age!
Here's proof!

Yes, that would be my husband above and my very patient (but slightly annoyed) daughter with the PlasmaCar.
There's definitely many reasons why this awesome product has won many awards!
The PlasmaCar can be purchased at many retail locations such as: Indigo, Canadian Tire, Toys 'R' Us & more. You can check here for locations closest to you.

You could read my full review here.

I adore this product very much that I just had to include it in my 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways and offer one of my lucky readers a chance to win one!

To enter, simply enter via rafflecopter below. Quick entries!
Ends 12/12/12.

Good luck!

*Open to Canada and the US, excluding Alaska & Hawaii.
**Colour choice is not an option (dependent on stock).

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Make Food Fun with FunBites + Giveaway

Getting my 4 year old daughter to eat as of late has been somewhat of a challenge.

She's been very picky about what she eats (and when she wants to eat) -- I'm sure I'm not the only disgruntled and worried mother that is going or has gone through something similar.

I have noticed when I include her in preparation of meals, she is more likely to eat it afterwards.

Even better, once being introduced to FunBites, my little girl has been enjoying her meals more often!

FunBites comes in two designs -- hearts and squares. Combining the different shapes can make for some fun and creative pieces!

It wasn't so easy at times to remove the popper top and and I found them a tad on the heavy side, especially for little ones that are helping out, but aside from that, they were very simple and easy to use.

We had fun making the different shapes out of the bite-sized pieces (another plus for the mouths of little ones) and they were definitely made very durable (risk of breaking or being damaged is very slim.)

I especially loved that it sparked my daughter's interest in getting involved in meal prep and also got her creative juices flowing.

With the holidays around, I think these would even make for a cute stocking stuffer!

You can learn more about FunBites at: www.FunBites.com.

One of my readers will win a FunBite of their very own!  Simply enter via rafflecopter below!

Ends December 7th.

*Open to Canadian Residents only.*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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2012 Holiday Gift Guide & Christmas Giveaways

It's the most wonderful time of the year!

I am a true Christmas Lover.  Just about everything about it makes me super joyful and high-spirited -- the lights, the decor, the music, the smell of vanilla and cinnamon and of course, the shopping!

There's nothing more exciting for me than shopping for gifts.  I love shopping in general of course, but it truly does feel amazing when you're taking the time to find that perfect gift for someone special.

I know for many, especially during this very frenzied time of year, shopping can be quite chaotic and most often not as fun as it's meant to be.  What happens? You end up getting a not-so-perfect gift and getting the 'Oh thank you (for this gift I will probably never use -- what were you thinking?)' fake reaction from your loved one or a very unhappy child.  An unhappy child strung up on Christmas cookies and sweets isn't very fun.  In fact, it's quite frightening.  

I've scoured the web and have finally compiled a list of Holiday Gift Goodies that I'm definite will be a hit for every single person on your list.

This happy Mama with one of my ultimate must-haves on the Gift Guide!

I can vouch for many of these items as I also own them myself and/or have purchased them for someone close to me so in terms of quality, style and price -- I've got you covered!

Browsing & shopping in one of our favourite places, perfect for Holiday Gifts: Chapters Indigo!

Happy Shopping!

CAC Holiday Gift Guide 2012


*Watch out for some giveaways starting December 1st of products straight from my Gift Guide!
You won't want to miss it!*

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Festive Beauty: The Luxe Advent Calendar

Can you believe there are only 70 days left till Christmas?

Have you started your Holiday Gift-Shopping already?  I know, I know, we just finished celebrating Thanksgiving here in Canada and we haven't even seen Halloween yet so talking about anything Christmas may not be what you want to hear, but for the beauty lovers, you definitely want to listen to this!

If you don't know about the Loose Button Luxe Box, read more about my love for it here.

It's a seasonal beauty box subscription that offers deluxe-sized beauty samples in a chic package and personalized to the tee.  I've been sent different Luxe Boxes throughout the year and I have to admit they have grown dramatically -- bigger and better each time!

Well, now that the holidays are approaching, Loose Button has come up with a festive special that's sure to delight -- The Luxe Advent Calendar!

You remember those fun advent calendars you use to get when you were a child, filled with delicious treats behind each window that you open every day during the month of December?  This is exactly the same thing, but instead of chocolates, you are pleasantly surprised with a deluxe-sized beauty sample from top name brands in the beauty industry.  Brands such as Shu Uemura, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani and Lancome. Love these brands!

At first when I heard about it, I thought this must be a small calendar... I was wrong!

I received a generously-sized rectangular box in the mail today and low & behold it was my Luxe Advent Calendar! 

It came beautifully gift-wrapped with a hand-written card. Such a treat!

The calendar comes with 24 deluxe-sized samples including a $10 gift card to spend at Loose Button's upcoming online retail store launching in time for the holiday season. 

This is the perfect gift for that beauty lover on your list or just a nice indulgence for you!

The price tag for this calendar is $109 Canadian. This I think is decent; however, I would've liked to see it a smaller price point or even just a higher gift card amount.

Nonetheless, this is a great opportunity to test out some amazing samples of fabulous brands before splurging on a full-sized item and the idea of it in an advent calendar for the Holidays makes for an extra-special touch.

It's now available for purchase on their website with limited quantities, so act quickly!

To purchase or learn more about the Luxe Advent Calendar including all the items it holds, visit them here.

Cannot wait to open up my first window! And the countdown is on...

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Pure Energy & Fun with The PlasmaCar

I'm going to say it without any shame at all... My daughter is spoiled.

She has every thing a little 3 1/2 year old girl could want AND MORE!

I'm not saying it's a good thing, but what I can be proud of is that despite the fact that she has everything she could possibly need, she is a grateful and humble little girl.  Even at her ripe age.

Having said all that, despite all the things she owns, one thing is for certain, she knows what she wants.

She knows exactly what she'll have fun with and we can pretty much tell if a new gadget or toy will just be a one-hit wonder for her and then off to the back of her closet.

Just recently we did a little spring-cleaning and tons of purging of mostly, yes you guessed it, Ava's belongings.

When we came across The PlasmaCar in Chapters Indigo, we were very intrigued.  Ava would never leave the store without having a little fun on the PlasmaCar. Albeit a very short-lived amount of fun as the line-up for those things in Chapters were almost always ridonkulous.

Kids of all ages seem to love them.

So that got us thinking whether it's worth the investment (We loved the fact that it's powered by the child itself with no batteries, pedals or gears, which makes for great exercise!) or was this again something she was just excited to have because she noticed a lot of the other children's enthusiasm over the product.

So, we were more than thrilled to have been given the opportunity to review the famous set of wheels from Plasmart and see if this, in fact, was truly as brilliant a car as it seemed.

We received the The PlasmaCar on our front steps a couple of days ago and surprised a very happy little girl!

First of all the set-up was a breeze.

There's nothing more frustrating than a lengthy and agonizing set-up.  Did it worry me a tad though? Yeah, a little. Only because I thought that if it was so easy to assemble, it might be a little boring for her.

Remember, we're living in a day and age of technology and the more gadgets and bits and bolts on a toy meant it was better, right? Wrong.

As soon as The PlasmaCar was all ready and set-up, my husband first took it for a swing (using checking for safety and durability as an excuse - yeah right), had to literally pry him off to give our little girl a chance. 

He was having that much fun with it!

But, our biggest critic had yet to take her new wheels for a spin. Wheels she named "Sunny".

Did she love it? You be the judge.
(*Important Note: Ava does wear a helmet at all times when riding outdoors! Just wasn't shot in this quick portion. It's a must!)

So overall, would I recommend The PlasmaCar to family and friends? Absolutely!
First of all, it's Canadian Brand! Woo-hoo!

Secondly, I love that it provides the fun and exercise that our children very much need and for a very decent price.

No pedals, gears or batteries needed! You just turn the wheel and away you go!

Quiet, inexpensive, and providing limitless playability, the PlasmaCar is truly a unique toy that can reach exhilarating, but kid-friendly, speeds of up to 10 km/hour (6 mph). . . It’s pure energy, and pure fun!

It's really no surprise that it's won numerous awards.

Currently The PlasmaCar retails for $64.95 at our local Chapters, but for other store locations that carry The PlasmaCar, you can search here.

For more information on The PlasmaCar, visit them online at: www.plasmacar.com.

For more updates and fun stuff, make sure to follow them on Twitter or Like them on Facebook.

How would you like to WIN your very own PlasmaCar in your choice of colour?

Thanks to PlaSmart, a lucky CAC reader will win a PlasmaCar {SRV $69.99}

Just enter by following the simple instruction via Rafflecopter below before June 27/12 to be eligible!

Open to Canadian and US (excl. Alaska & Hawaii) Residents only. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Disclaimer: I received a PlasmaCar in exchange for my honest review of this product; however, the opinions expressed are my very own.

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