48-Hour Summer Getaway to Whistler BC with the Family

September 30, 2020September 30, 2020Features, Life

End of Summer Getaway to Whistler BC

Summer just might be the best time of year to take a family vacation or in this case with the worlds currently pandemic happening, “staycation” to Whistler, better known as the ultimate-Canadian ski town. Roughly two hours north of Vancouver this isn’t just a winter lovers’ destination or paradise.

The crowds are much thinner, the weather is gorgeous and the hotel rates are generally a lot lower then they would be throughout the rest of the year. Plus, there is plenty of things to do (minus skiing and all your snow sports, of course) from escape rooms to scavenger hunts in the Village, ziplining, good places to dine, and of course, shopping – the activities are endless.

Before the family and I made the trek to Whistler we had to make a quick stop in Squamish. More so for a pee break for the little one, but I had also heard of this super cute bakery and coffee shop thanks to a few friends called, Sunflower Bakery & Cafe. Thankfully for me, they had just introduced their gluten-free donuts so I was still able to indulge with the rest of the fam.

Sunflower Bakery and Cafe — Sunflower Cafe & Bakery Donuts

Four Seasons Whistler

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences is a gorgeous luxury getaway in the heart of Whistler’s Upper Village. When it came to deciding where we wanted to stay I definitely called around for the best rates and what the hotel had currently operating. A big deciding factor for us was the pool and fitness center. Most places including the Four Seasons had restrictions on the pool time and the gym area. However out of all the ones I called the FS had a 3-hour limit which was plenty of time for us. I also loved the fact that between 4-6 pm there is a snowcone stand on-site where the kids (and adults) can grab an icy treat, and a complimentary wine tasting daily from 4-5 pm at Sidecut Lounge. I think that alone sold Rick on wanting to stay here.

Upon arrival, and for the duration of your stay at any point in time that you are on the Four Seasons property – guests must be wearing a mask at all times. Once you’re inside the pool area and your room you are free to take them off.

We were fortunate enough to be upgraded by three-room categories during our stay. The room was generously sized, with a large, five-piece bathroom that had the toilet area separate and tons of closet space. Fortunately for us, we had our own walk-in closet that was honestly the perfect size for all three of us to put our stuff in without cluttering the room. It was extremely sweet of the staff to have arranged the pull-out couch for Ry so it was one less thing for us to have to set up.

Day 1 – Wednesday

The family and I headed out to Whistler from the Fraser Valley mid-day and it took us exactly two hours to get there (with a quick stop in Squamish). We knew Wednesday we wanted it to be about exploring the Village, maybe taking a dip in the pool and then heading out for night-time fun at Vallea Lumina, created by Montreal-based Moment Factory, and brought to life by the Adventure Group. If you’re not familiar with Vallea Lumina, this is a multimedia experience that takes place outdoors in which it invites guests into an enchanting universe, inspired by Whistler’s unparalleled natural beauty and local culture. Make sure to bring comfortable footwear aka runners as some girls I saw were in heals – a big no-no! And lots of layers. As we go into the winter months and since you’re in the mountains it gets quite chilly in the evenings.

The Story Behind Vallea Lumina

Magical nights await visitors to Whistler at Vallea Lumina, a ground-breaking experience that brings Cougar Mountain’s old-growth forest to life. Old stories tell of the wondrous things that happen near Whistler. Between the trees, in the shadow of mountains, legends say there’s a hidden valley where stardust falls from the sky, filling all living things with its pure light. It’s a place that’s filled with unexpected enchantment. There’s a way to get there, but few know how to find it. Those who visit and witness their secrets remember it long after they leave. Join an evening excursion and follow cryptic radio transmissions and the lingering traces of two long-ago hikers to find the scenic trailhead where the real journey begins… This pathway leads toward a place filled with beauty, and proof that the legends of Whistler are true.

Day 2 – Thursday

Our Thursday was a pretty go-go-go day from the get go. Rick and Ry went for a walk in the morning to grab coffees so I could get a few more restful minutes and get ready in peace. Up first for our days adventures was the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola Sightseeing Tour. This world record setting transforms the high alpine experience with new, awe-inspiring vistas as it bridges the gap between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. I’m not a big one for heights so this definitely took me a bit out of my comfort zone. The views were absolutely stunning and we were on the lookout for Black Bears below, but had no such luck.

PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola

After opening on December 12, 2008 the massive gondola revolutionized the way skiers, riders and hikers experienced the mountains. The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, as part of the world’s longest continuous lift system, introduces summer guests to unprecedented access to Whistler Blackcomb’s high alpine for sightseeing, hiking and mountain-top dining.The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola travels a span of 4.4 kilometres/2.73 miles giving sightseers and hikers a serene aerial flight showcasing flora and fauna, including black bears in their protected habitats, inhabiting the flanks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains; the Coast Mountain Range’s many glaciers and peaks; and Whistler Village, surrounded by gem-like lakes.

Escape!Whistler

Next up on the agenda was an escape room – Escape! Whistler. I have been dying to try one of these so when I saw that Whistler offered 4 different versions (one of which they recommended was suitable to do with Ry) we were all for it. I love mystery and solving puzzles so this was a must.

The room that was highly suggested to us, being the easiest of the four and the most child friendly was the pirate ship. The three of us were taken prisoners (we legit were in handcuffs starting out) and had been taken prisoner aboard a ship of ruthless Pirates. We had to escape from the jail, find the clues to ultimately get us to finding the treasure and exiting safely. I am happy to announce our family made it out with 10+ minutes to spare – woo!

We definitely want to come back (maybe just myself and Rick the next time to try out the other three rooms. The Buried Cabin, The Pinball Machine and The Rabbit Hole. These experiences can be played with groups of 2 to 6 people. Your group will be presented with puzzles, riddles, and clues which you must work together to solve within 45 minutes in order to “Escape” from the situation you are in. Be prepared for fun, creative, and interactive obstacles. How far you make it will depend on your group’s ability to solve the challenges laid out for you. If you get stumped along the way, you will have the opportunity to receive 2 clues to help you advance. But don’t waste time…you only have 45 minutes to Escape!

Dinner at 21 Steps Kitchen & Bar

Established in 2004, 21 Steps Kitchen + Bar is a locally owned and operated restaurant located in the heart of Whistler Village. A casual restaurant committed to great modern comfort food and generous portions at modest prices, Whistler locals have voted 21 Steps Kitchen + Bar as one of the best restaurants for appetizers, value, atmosphere and romantic dining experiences.

The family and I were fortunate enough to be hosted by 21 Steps for a delicious meal or should I say multiple meals. Stacey, the manager ensured we had the best service possible and our waitress was honestly so amazing. Known for their small plates Rick and I opted to try their goat cheese balls, bacon-wrapped sirloin, a pesto covered shrimp, mussels and then we also had the chance to try their salmon and a bean dip. Ry also had his very own steak and french fries which was adorable. Although he mainly ate the fries and Rick ate the steak. The food here was really well done and gave off that refined yet cozy comfy classic vibe that I think is always good to have.

Day 3 – Friday

On the last day of our trip, we really wanted it to be relaxed and not rushed. Since we had a busy day on Thursday anything we wanted to do, see or shop we wanted to leave for Friday and then make our way home. Fortunately for us, Tourism Whistler and the Four Seasons graciously arranged for us to have a stunning and delicious Balcony Breakfast. Head over to this post where I talk all about it. Honestly, this had to have been one of the best breakfasts I’ve had in a long time. I really like having a nice mix of sweet and savoury items to nibble on and this did just that. From fresh pancakes with warm maple syrup to fresh fruit and the most perfect poached eggs on avocado toast – we definitely had full and happy bellies.

Not long after breakfast did we realized we were about to head home on a Friday of a long weekend – queue the anxiety and anticipation of not hitting a tone of traffic! Shortly after breakfast we packed up our stuff and headed out to avoid any delays.

Our family was super grateful for the opportunity to visit Whistler as our last trip before Ryerson headed off to Kindergarten. It definitely was the icing on the cake and the perfect way to end summer!

Disclosure – All activities and mentioned meals were sponsored. All opinions expressed are my own and images taken. Thank you Tourism Whistler for hosting me and the family.

Four Seasons Resort Whistler – Balcony Breakfast

September 30, 2020September 30, 2020Features, Life

Wake Up in Whistler

There’s nothing quite like waking up refreshed and relaxed in a super comfy and cozy bed (that isn’t yours)! If you read my other blog post talking about our entire stay you would have noted my quick mention of our delicious Balcony Breakfast our final morning in Whistler before we headed back to the Fraser Valley. Not only did we stay at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler because of the amazing amenities and service, but because their in-room breakfast towers are something else! Have you ever seen something so scrumptious and gorgeous? I almost didn’t want to eat it! Think of it like a high-tea tower but a full-blown breakfast and not just tiny finger sandwiches!

Balcony Breakfast in Whistler at the Four Seasons Resort

Breakfast on the Balcony

The Four Seasons Whistler offers a few different breakfast tower options. First off, The Power Breakfast is on the healthier side if you’re not looking for anything too heavy and decadent. With a focus on lean meats, fruits, healthy nutritional bars and a spinach and chickpea breakfast burrito as the main. The next choice is The Express Continental Breakfast. The name speaks for itself and this breakfast is perfect for those wanting a quick and easy meal that consists of granola & berry yogurt parfait, pastries and fruit salad. Not to mention, all of the towers come with tea or coffee and a chilled juice of your liking (get the orange juice it’s so good). However, if you’re anything like me I need a good combo and sweet and savoury so The Coast Mountain Breakfast Tower was just the perfect meld of both of my breakfast cravings.

The Coast Mountain Breakfast is Four Season Whistler’s most epic and well-rounded breakfast tower. Our tower as you’ll see from the images included is roasted tomato & asparagus, bacon & sausage, multiple pastries, pancakes dusted with icing sugar (a side of maple syrup), fruit salad and two poached eggs on top of avocado toast.

What I loved about the Breakfast Towers was that everything comes straight to your room (by the lovely staff at the Four Seasons) and puts it together right before your eyes. I love going out for a good breakfast, but sometimes you just want to enjoy your hot cup of coffee still in your robe, admiring a gorgeous view and indulging in all the goodies without leaving the comfort of your room.

If you had to ask my son, Ryerson, his favourite item for breakfast, it would probably be the pancakes and pastries. I kid you not, he took a tiny bite out of each pastry before myself or his dad could even try any (ah kids).

For those looking to enhance their stay by indulging in a breakfast tower – prices range around the start mark of $50 and go up from there depending on the add ons and modifications made. Honestly, it’s totally worth it and a truly one of a kind breakfast-dining experience that you won’t find anywhere else. For the amount of food and the added luxury of being able to enjoy it in the privacy of your room makes the Breakfast Towers in my own opinion an incredible deal, but also a fun and romantic experience (if your kids don’t tag along). The Coast Mountain Breakfast Tower fed both of us adults easily and there was still plenty for our son to eat. We still had a few leftover pastries and some fruit leftover that we saved for the car ride home later that day.

Next time you find yourself at the Four Seasons Whistler, make sure to arrange with the staff this delicious breakfast tower, not only because it is that good but because its a one of a kind experience and treat that you’re not going to get again (unless you come back for another trip).

Disclaimer: Compliments of The Four Seasons Resort Whistler. All opinions and content are original and my own.

Grow your own Magic with My Fairy Light Garden

August 1, 2020September 8, 2020Features, Kids

A Toy that’s Also a Real, Live Garden!

My fairy garden is the first of its kind: a toy that’s also a real, live garden! Children love kits that allow them to grow plants at home; it gives them a connection to nature and a sense of satisfaction at having nurtured a living thing. Fortunately enough, Playmonster was kind enough to send us our very own My Fairy Garden Fairy Light Garden!

My Fairy Garden takes it to a new, exciting level by allowing children to interact with it as part of an enchanting playset! Children plant the seeds, and care for their garden, all while setting up and playing with adorable fairies, woodland friends and accessories! I know what you’re thinking – and yes this toy is also okay for boys. My son has always loved to help me garden and watch our plants grow so I knew this would be right up his alley.

Each kit includes everything children need to grow their very own fairy garden, nurture the plants, and play in the fairy world they create!

my fairy garden

About My Fairy Garden

Did you know that fairies are everywhere? They are! Fairies love nature, so you’ll usually find them near flowers, trees, and toadstools or among other wild and beautiful plants. If you’re wanting to invite a fairy into your home, creating a magical garden for them is the first step.

This set includes everything you need to make that special garden for the fairy Saffron and her beautiful unicorn. Saffron spends much of her time daydreaming in her garden, petting and chatting with her unicorn, Calista. Saffron especially loves her garden at nighttime when it’s quiet and peaceful. She blows on her magical mushroom home to activate magical lights and music to fully relax.

Once you build Saffron’s garden and start growing your own plants, you can have fun playing in your new fairy world.

Contents of this kit includes: Light house, bridge, waterwheel, watering can, gardening tools, seed packets, seed starter, Saffron the Fairy, Calista the Unicorn and the fairy flying-cord.

my fairy garden

Make it your Own

As you’ll see in the photos Ry and I decided to add our own plants after the fairy garden grew. Sadly we went away on holidays and the fairy garden was looking a little sad when we got home so we decided to re-plant and regrow. Don’t ask the plants, I let Ryerson take the lead and he grabbed what spoke to him. It’s so fun watching him create and be so fascinated with the nature that is right in front of him.

For those looking to get this or if you already have it, be sure to really make it your own though when you grow your garden. Add rocks, sticks, twigs, shells, etc. Why not even add some extra flowers or plants as we did?!

I also loved the fact this was a STEM toy. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. It’s great for the kids to become educated on how things work in a fun way (also with a dose of magic).

Now, what are you waiting for… go plant some magic and watch it grow!

my fairy garden

Disclosure: All opinions expressed are my own. The product was gifted in exchange for this blog post.

Stacking Just Got a Whole Lot Sillier with Stacktopus

July 28, 2020September 3, 2020Business, Features, Kids

It’s Fun for the Whole Family

Nothing sayings being silly quite like putting funny objects on your fingers!

PlayMonster‘s Stacktopus is having players slip on silly sea fingers to become a stacking octopus…a Stacktopus!™ Stacking these cups should be easy, but when you’re wearing octopus arms on your fingers, it becomes silly competitive fun! Race to match your stack of cups to the card shown to win! It’s great fun for kids, but also for families—wearing the silly sea fingers levels the playing field for kids and adults! Best for only 2 to 3 Players.

Silly isn’t just for Kids!

When Ryerson received this game in the mail he was so excited. Talk about killer branding with a giant fun-loving Octopus on the side, what kid wouldn’t want to open the box immediately? Of course, dad had to join in on the fun (plus I don’t let Ry win if I’m playing #badmom hehe).

I will admit I have seen the octopus hands not just used for game-play… Ry likes to pretend to be an octopus and run around the house mostly scaring and annoying the cats, but sometimes he wants to just because. Sometimes the simplest games can keep the kids’ imagination running wild.

Rules of the Game

To play the game, kids draw from the included deck of 24 stack cards to receive their mission. From there, it’s a fast-paced race to see which player can complete the colourful stack on their card first. Kids (or even the adults) place three octo-fingers onto one hand to tackle the task. Nine of the awkward appendages are included, so up to three players can take part in the fun.

Stacktopus is a perfect addition to the game shelf for the entire family to enjoy. It’s a game that can be played quickly, stores easily, and will put smiles on faces all the way around. This game is recommended for 5 years and up but younger kids definitely can still join in. Of course, Ry being younger didn’t always follow the rules but we made the best of it.

Disclosure – This game was gifted and sent to us for review. All opinions expressed are my own. Thank you PlayMonster and ChizComm.

Small Prints – Big Impressions

June 2, 2020Business, Features, Kids, Motherhood

Smallprint Vancouver North, which specializes in handcrafted jewellery that captures the fingerprint of a loved one in silver. No moulds are taken; which means the silver keepsake has literally been touched by your loved one. Hand and footprints, drawings, and love notes can also be turned into silver jewellery. All items are handcrafted and hand engraved by Mahnaz (Naz), the owner, in her North Vancouver studio, from start to finish!

Heartfelt Impressions

When Naz reached out to me wanting to create some lifelong keepsake jewelry pieces I was floored. I had seen her work on other people and on social media so I was ecstatic to be working with her to create some unique items that were meaningful to me. The process was very easy. First, Naz sent over an inkless print kit where I was able to run a (wet wipe) a Magic Inkless Print Kit over Ryerson’s hands and feet and then press them onto this ‘special paper’. Then voila! His prints appeared (see image below).

Making A Mark

Additionally, I got Ryerson to write down his name and the word ‘MOM’ as this is something I wanted to be imprinted onto a charm for me to be able to wear as he grows. Something so simple yet meaningful, it seemed like the perfect choice to get on a piece of jewelry. I then took a photo of each of the pieces of paper where Ry wrote the names and emailed them to Naz. The rest was left in her magical hands.

The two pieces I had done up were a bracelet with the word ‘MOM’ and on the other side Ry’s handprint. Additionally, a keychain was made with both of Ry’s footprints and his name that he spelt out. On the back of the keychain was the date and his age so we were able to know exactly when the prints were taken.

Perfect for Every Day & Special Occasions

Smallprint Vancouver North offers a beautiful collection of handmade sterling silver keepsakes that are perfect at any time of the year.

Consider a unique handcrafted sterling silver jewelry piece or personalized keepsake for:

Mother’s Day & Father’s Day
Birthday or a new birth
Engagement, Wedding or an Anniversary
Valentine’s Day
Christmas
Graduation
or even just because! There are so many reasons why these pieces make a great gift.

Smallprint Vancouver North also offers Memory Treasures for the bereaved. These handcrafted and personalized memorial keepsakes can provide comfort to those with loved ones they are about to lose as well as preserving the memory of those who have already sadly passed.

Who Can Get Their Prints Done?

Anyone really! From children as young as newborns to their grandparents, loved ones of all ages can get their prints taken for your Smallprint keepsake. And did you know that you can also take your furry friends prints? Anything you’d like to get an impression of you can realistically.

Experiences that last a lifetime

When you choose a Smallprint Keepsake, you are getting the experience in addition to your personalized accessory. And it really only takes a matter of moments. The creation process happens right in front of your eyes and you’ll have a memory of exactly where you were when your special piece was made. I loved the idea that Ry was a bit older so I was able to get his hand and footprints in addition to some of his writing. I think it’s also adorable that you’re able to get an actual drawing your child has created done up and recreated into an everlasting piece of jewelry.

Which Smallprint Vancouver North pieces would you love to receive? What special memory would you like to carry with you most? Let me know in the comments below.

If you want more information on the Smallprint brand you can either visit the Facebook page or Instagram.
Smallprint Vancouver North in the media.

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Smallprint Vancouver North however, all opinions expressed are my own.

Hair That’s Crafted

December 22, 2019Business, Features

Crafting The Perfect Hair

As many people would know I haven’t changed my hairstyle in over a decade. And yes, that may seem a long time for most people for me I stick to what works. I’ve never been a fan of having someone touch my hair let alone getting it cut. Luckily for me, a long-time family friend who also happens to be a hairstyle had the daunting task to get me to try and step out of my comfort zone and work her magic on my long locks.

Come for the Experience, Leave with Confidence

For those who aren’t familiar, Craft Academy Salon is located in South Surrey (with another location in East Vancouver) and specializes in providing its clientele with killer hair regardless if you’re just wanting a new hairstyle or to a beautiful blowout or banging new bob. Guests who visit Craft Academy Salon can expect excellent customer service, a welcome tray including snack options upon arrival and an in-depth signature consultation, beauty haircare coaching, a welcoming, relaxed and enjoyable setting with passionate stylists and support staff capable of recommending the most innovative products and on-trend services available.

Preparing a Masterpiece

Upon my first visit Heather basically ‘interviewed’ me if you will during our consultation. She asked me a handful of in-depth questions pertaining to me as a person, my hair goals and just overall lifestyle. I like to call this hair therapy. You strip everything down to the roots (no pun intended) and get down to what your hair needs, wants and desires are. You then go over the suggestions your stylist has and what she envisions and thinks is possible for your hair. Whether you’re a brunette and want to go platinum blonde they would never say ‘no’ to you but offer some of the best suggestions on how to achieve healthy hair while doing heavy bleaching or maybe another alternative that would suit you and your lifestyle better.

After we went over what my goals were and what I envisioned we set aside some time for my next appointment to begin the hair process but before I left Heather provided a quick scalp treatment called Kerastase Serum Extensionist. This bottle of goodness drenches your scalp with moisture and helps to strengthen the hair fibres to increase hair growth and protect your scalp from seasonal dryness. It is easy to use! Apply the serum with the applicator to the areas you experience oiliness, itch or dry scalp and within a couple of weeks your scalp will be noticeably happier and your hair will be growing stronger and longer! Just what I needed during this time of year.

Stylist at Work

Upon my next appointment – it was time to make the magic happen! At the chair, Heather did a custom hand-painted highlight and lowlight for my hair colour. This type of balayage was created to accentuate my new haircut and one that would look beautiful either straight for day-to-day or curled for a bigger event. Then at the sink, my hair was rinsed and a shine-enhancing gloss was applied as well as a Smartbond Treatment, followed by a relaxing scalp massage using one of the salon’s favourite Kerastase products.

Heather then suggested a few of their go-to products to keep your hair luscious and honestly just in good health after you leave the salon. Since I do straighten my hair every day or curl it my hair is constantly getting played with and having damage done by high heat. The blowdry cream that was suggested is Kerastase Nectar Thermique, which is to help with dry hair and to increase suppleness and shine while protecting the hair from heat styling, blowout to curls or straightening. The end result will feel soft to touch as be so radiant and with regular use your hair is getting a hydrating treatment!

I, of course, needed a good hairspray recommendation and dry shampoo (because let me tell you this girl can’t go more than a day max two without washing her hair – let’s just say oily city). Besides Heather, she mentioned all the girls are in love with these products and use them daily themselves. The Kerastase Laque Couture hairspray is so lightweight that you can’t overuse it! A quick spritz of this beautifully scented luxury spray will add extra shine for your events and lock down the hair in all weather conditions. Keep your hair looking beautiful without a helmet! And drum roll, please… RandCo Skyline! THE BEST dry shampoo around (from what I was told). Puff it in to absorb scalp oils before bed to wake up with fresh clean hair! Apply it on day one after a blowout to add a gentle lift near the scalp. Use it to make your hair look full without backcombing! So many great uses for this gem!

Overall, my experience and knowledge I left Craft with were amazing! The entire staff is super hands-on and friendly that you get to know each and every person who is in the salon. I, of course, cannot thank Heather enough for doing such a fabulous job on my hair! I am definitely holiday-ready and just freshened up for the season and New Year to come!

If you’re looking for a refresh or just want to talk about your options make sure to call Craft Academy Salon in South Surrey and ask for Heather Hall! Tell them I sent you and you’ll be given a 15% off promo of your next service! *Offer subject to change at the discretion of the stylist.

Here are a few before and after photos of what we did to my hair!

Before

After

Craft Academy Salon

15240 BC-10 Unite 102, Surrey, BC
craftacademysalon.com