My Skincare Routine with MD Cosmetic

January 4, 2021January 5, 2021Features, Life

With a new year comes a bunch of new goals and resolutions. Now over the years, I’ve always said I’ll make a resolution and well let’s just say two days later it’s broken. Instead, I’ve found setting intentions and goals throughout the year is much more feasible and attainable.

Stepping up my Skincare

One of my goals was to get myself on a better skincare routine, or just a skincare routine for that matter! Let it be known that when it comes to achieving and maintaining flawless skin and a youthful appearance, your genes can only do so much for you. Luckily I did inherit decent skin (thanks mom and dad) but with that, it only goes so far and I definitely don’t want to take it for granted.

For years, I’ve been using random drug-store name products that I really don’t know what they are good for or how they would help my skin. Heck, who knows if they even did a thing – for all know I was just rubbing a random cream on my face thinking it was providing some sort of benefits. Plus, if I am being honest – I rarely followed a routine yet alone washed my face *cringe*. I was one of those people who slept with their makeup on almost every night… EEK!

Where to Start

Ideally, the primary step of building a skincare routine is booking a consultation with an expert skin care specialist. Luckily for me, MD Cosmetic was right there to help me. Upon my first visit, I had a consultation where they evaluated my skin health and based on that, gave recommendations as to what type of products and ingredients you should be aiming to use or stop using. Plus I was recommended a number of treatments to coincide with my new skincare routine to better improve my complexion. There are basic skincare steps that will work wonders for you regardless of your skin type and concerns you’re having.

Customized Skincare Program

These are the following products I am using on a daily (in this order):

Morning Routine

ZO® Skin Health Gentle Cleanser
Washing your face is an essential part of any skincare routine. It prevents your pores from getting clogged by makeup, dust, and dirt that your skin is constantly exposed to every day. For this cleanser, I only use a dime-size amount and mix it with water. Ideally, you should be washing your face at least twice a day. Always start with a freshly cleansed face in the morning before you put on any makeup. Also, never go to bed without washing your face again at night. An end of day cleanse is to get rid of the makeup and impurities that have accumulated in your skin throughout the day. Find the perfect facial cleanser that will get rid of the grime without stripping off the essential oils in your skin. Steer clear of cleansers that contain abrasive ingredients and harsh chemicals, which could lead to irritation.
ZO® Skin Health Exfoliating Polish
Skin exfoliation comes with a lot of amazing benefits. When you exfoliate, you remove the top layer of the skin, which is made up of dry, dull, and dead skin cells that seal off the pores and traps impurities that lead to acne and skin breakouts. In addition, it also boosts the absorption of skincare products into the skin, making them work even better. For the polish, you only need a dime-size amount. I mix it with a little bit of water and gently scrub for about 30 seconds, two-three times a week. This is a perfect product if you want to fight the early signs of ageing proactively. Also by regularly exfoliating the skin will stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production, which is a crucial component of skin renewal.
iS Clinical Youth Eye Complex
YOUTH EYE COMPLEX is a breakthrough formula that utilizes advanced technologies to combat the visual signs of ageing. This formula is clinically proven to target visual areas of concern and, as a result, skin looks firmer and more resilient. Powerful peptides, key growth factors, and potent antioxidants help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and visibly brighten the under-eye area to keep skin smooth, hydrated and protected all day long. Just think of it as having 4 key goals (plus many more) but these are the ones I am after Rapidly Smoothes & Hydrates, Reduces Puffiness & Dark Circles. I gently squeeze about half a pump on my ring fingers and dab under the eyes and around my brow bone.
iS Clinical – Pro-Heal Serum Advance Plus
This antioxidant-rich serum features scientifically advance L-ascorbic acid aka Vitamin C, combined with a superior form of Olive Leaf Extract and pure Vitamin E and A. This powerful formula increased antioxidant protection while helping improve the appearance of compromised, blemish-prone and ageing skin. Basically, Vitamin C serum will ultimately help with blemishes, reduce hyperpigmentation and give your skin the out-of-this-world glow you’re longing for. This is great for all skin types especially those that are sensitive. Apply about 4 drops directly to the face and rub them into your skin and neck.
MD Cosmetic Peptide Serum
Say hello to fewer lines and wrinkles! Hand-selected and created by Dr. Alibhai himself this serum is one of a kind! The body’s natural messengers for repairing tissues, peptides are essential to younger-looking skin. MD Cosmetic has developed its own peptide serum, packed with six of the most potent peptides to reverse the signs and symptoms of ageing, from wrinkle depth and volume to skin tone and texture. I apply 1-2 drops twice a day to my entire face and neck. Honestly, it feels like I am rubbing silk all over my skin!
iS Clinical Moisturizing Complex
iS Clinical Moisturizing Complex renews and protects dry, damaged skin. Hyaluronic acid binds moisture to the skin to improve smoothness and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful and radiant complexion. Vitamins A and E nourish and protect against environmental damage to prevent early signs of ageing. Again apply 1-2 pumps and bring down the neck. A moisturizer is key to any skincare as its locking in all that moisture and good stuff your skin needs to stay hydrated all day (and night).
ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Primer (SPF 30)
For me, I rarely if ever wear sunscreen. The only time I recall using it was when we went to Mexico almost two years ago and I applied it to my face and ears… I naturally have a lot of freckles and pigmentation that I soon learned I’d have signs of ageing a lot faster due to sun damage to my skin. So getting a proper SPF and primer was essential as part of my routine and frankly one of the top things my skincare specialist Liana recommended. This dual-action sunscreen, with ZOX12^® complex, protects against the damaging effects from UVA/UVB and IR-A rays, and from HEV light. Hydrates and doubles as a makeup primer for a smooth matte finish, diminishing skin imperfections.

Nighttime Routine

Gentle Cleanser – (cleanse for 60 seconds – longer in the evening than the morning).
Eye Complex
MD Serum
Moisturizing Complex

At the end of the day, I learned that nothing beats sticking to a solid skincare routine to get you through the hustle and bustle of life. Yes, some of these products can add up due to their price and being medical-grade skincare. But honestly, you won’t need to buy another skincare product and these last for many months! So you really are getting your money’s worth. Plus, why would you not want to take care of your skin by investing in the right skincare?

I am honestly SO happy with only being into my new skincare journey for about 3 weeks. I’ve already noticed a huge difference in my skin and the way it feels. I even go days without putting makeup on and just rocking my fresh face – hallelujah! I’m so glad I started this before getting into my 30’s so I can make better and healthier changes to my body now before it’s too late. A huge thank you to MD Cosmetic for getting me set on the right path!

If you’re interested in checking MD Cosmetic out in Abbotsford or Port Moody and you’re a first time customer, use code SAM20 to receive 20% off your first visit. Note, this does not include dermal fillers and botox.

This post is in partnership with MD Cosmetics in Abbotsford. All opinions and views expressed are my own. The product was provided for this review.

Virtual Care at Your Fingertips with CloudMD

October 15, 2020Business, Features, Life

The Doctor will see you now

Did you know you can now get virtual medical care on your schedule and from any device including your phone, desktop & tablet? Instantly connect with a licensed Canadian doctor! Say hello to your new friend CloudMD.

The other week, Ryerson started to look like he was coming down with something. Just having started Kindergarten I wasn’t that surprised. However, if this was any other time of year for that matter, I wouldn’t have been overly concerned. Kids get germs, runny noses and colds here and there – it’s apart of being a kid after all. But we are living in unprecedented times there is no time to play what-ifs. Especially soon after when Rick and I started to get the same symptoms of Ry; runny nose, sore throat, etc.

I knew I need a second opinion to ensure this was just a cold for Ry and the rest of us and that nothing else serious was going on. In our current conditions, it was appropriate to head to the doctor’s office or clinic. Luckily for us, we were able to try an app called CloudMD all thanks to VancouverMom for introducing us. CloudMD is a free, secure platform that connects patients with physicians for a real-time medical visit via video conferencing for non-emergency health concerns. The app eliminates the need to travel to an appointment and can be accessed using a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer from the comfort of home, plus it’s FREE to use for residents of BC and Ontario. Hello, simplicity!

Aiding in Simplicity

The app is very easy to use: Once you download it, all you have to do is input some basic information about yourself and your medical (care card) number. Then the app will ask you when you want to see a doctor and set an appointment for you.

The service is available beyond regular clinic hours, including evenings and weekends. By using this service, each patient will automatically have an electronic chart created that will allow providers to quickly access and understand the patient’s past and current health status, making everything easier.

The BC CloudMD Virtual Clinic hours are: Monday to Sunday from 8 am – 8 pm (PST)

For us, it was of course on a Saturday that we needed to speak with a doctor and luckily for us, we got an appointment within the hour – on a weekend! Luckily none of us needed a prescription, but for those who do they have the ability to give you one. By having a doctor available on a weekend really reduced the amount of stress and anxiety we had when we’d normally have to wait till Monday to see a doctor or worse case go to the ER which in most cases is not what’s needed. In our case, it was just a matter of it being the common cold and to monitor our symptoms if they progressively got worse.

How can CloudMD help?

CloudMD doctors can complete visits related to the following:

General medical advice
Prescriptions
Cold or coughs
Sinus infection
Bladder Infection
Sick notes
Specialist referrals
Order lab work and review results
and much more

For those out there in similar or the same situations, this app is an amazing resource for all us parents out there, especially now that we are trying hard to avoid going to clinics and hospitals at all costs. CloudMD is for sure a secure platform and is awesome for non-emergency health concerns right at your fingertips.

Haven’t tried the app? Download today using the links below and register for free to see a licensed Canadian doctor from the comfort of your own home! To check them out, go to your app store and find them. You can also check out their Instagram or website as well for additional information.

Disclosure: This post is a paid partnership between CloudMD & Vancouver Mom. All opinions expressed are my own.

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.

The Perfect Family Getaway to Penticton BC

August 17, 2020August 18, 2020Life, Motherhood

Staycation Getaway to Penticton BC

Summer is here and we know that finding family-friendly places to visit is a must for family vacations especially right now with everything that is going on with COVID. Penticton, British Columbia is a somewhat undiscovered beauty to many tourists and BC residents. Luckily for us, we took full advantage of this!

Known for sun, sand and delicious wines, Penticton has all the right ingredients for a perfect relaxing getaway for the entire family. Breath easy on the soft sandy beaches or splash around in two of the big lakes, better yet – the adults can test their tastebuds at over 70 different wineries all within a half-hour of each other.

Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre

When it came time to decide where we wanted to go for a quick 2-night getaway this past July, Rick and I both knew we didn’t want to be driving for more than a few hours tops. Immediately we thought of Kelowna but were in need of some lake views and easy beach access. We pondered with the idea of maybe going to Osoyoos but most hotels had already been booked well into September so we decided to look around the area when we stumbled upon Penticton.

The Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre which is right in the heart of the Okanagan Valley seemed like the perfect fit for us. It was smack dab on the lake with views for miles, wineries within 10-minutes and beach access within minutes we knew we wanted to stay here. Plus, they had plenty of availability to choose from.

The one major downside to staying here was the lack of updates in the rooms and furniture. Some of our furniture and decor had stains and small tears and there were nicks and dents in the tables. These rooms could definitely use a bit of TLC. However, with that being said, the location of the room was fantastic as we got to enjoy lake views from every angle and our patio was fabulous.

The weather wasn’t bad – it was a bit cooler the weekend we went so didn’t get as much beach time as we wanted but overall there was no rain so we were happy!

Local Winery Visits

Surprisingly we managed to fit in a total of 12 wineries with a 4.5-year-old over the span of the 2-days. We had only made 2 reservations as many of the wineries in the Okanagan are doing so to limit the number of people who are coming in and out. However, there is still a good handful that does allow walk-ins and frankly, we just got lucky at some places. Below is the list of wineries we hit and a little about each.

Our first stop on the Thursday was to Dirty Laundry in Summerland. Rick really likes their rose and I had heard it was such a cool location – you know with negligee hanging about. Dirty Laundry has such an interesting history (which is not so hush-hush) behind it and I love that the tasting staff share it with such pride and excitement. Not to mention they have one heck of a pizza place right on the property. Pizza and wine, could it get any better?

The next two wineries we then hit before taking it easy and having a pool and lake day were Three Sisters Winery and Township 7 Vineyards. The first of the two, was Three Sisters Winery, which pursues its commitment to the environment by reducing packaging, using lighter weight bottles and ambitious targets for energy saving, waste reduction and sustainability. I wasn’t as big of a fan as a lot of their wines were on the drier side, but Rick really liked one so that came home with us.

Up next, a name that we’re familiar with as we have a Township 7 right here in Langley, BC. This was our last stop on Thursday and it was the perfect one to close the day. We took our tasting flights out to their back picnic area and sat amongst the vines. Ry had a blast running around and exploring while we were able to enjoy and sip our wine (slowly). Again the wines here are much more on the drier side so not something I’d typically go for.

Fridays Winery Ventures

Friday was a pretty successful day we’d say in terms of what we were able to accomplish. The one winery we were dying to try was Painted Rock as they only serve red wines (which are mine and Ricks go-to choice when it comes to wine). The property is absolutely breathtaking and the winery itself is so classy and modern with a sexy sophisticated edge. We happen to have the first tasting of the day at 11:00 am and we were graciously served by John Skinner himself, the owner and mastermind behind Painted Rock. It was so fascinating to hear how he came up with the idea and how he has a passion and love for when and realized “if my friend can do it, I can do it”. Honestly, we could have stayed there all day and are looking forward to going back!

Next up, and likely a close tie to being our favourite was Crescent Hill. Tysha Pope one of the winemakers and owners of the winery was so lovely and made our tasting experience such fun! It’s a small tasting room so we had the whole place to ourselves. I have to commend them on some kick-ass branding. The images and artwork are so different and sassy, they really are eye-catching. We ended up purchasing three bottles from here, two Hissy Fit which is a 2016 Blush and my favourite the 2018 Sparkling Blush – First Crush. If you’re in the Penticton area this is a must stop!

Then to round off the day we made stops in at Play Winery, Da Silva Vineyards and Winery and Time & Evolve Cellars before heading back to the hotel and grabbing a bite to eat at the Hooded Merganser.

Also, if you’ve ever been to Penticton or are planning on going you have to stop in at The Peach Ice Cream Shop – on the beach (no intention of rhyming there). Serving up some fun and funky ice cream cones along with their crazy shakes, if you’re looking for that perfect Instagram worthy shot and wanting to indulge in something super sweet this is the place to go.

Homeward Bound

On our way home, we had said we had to stop and get some local produce aka peaches. Did we? No… let’s just say the addition of about 4 more wineries stopped that from happening. I should note, Rick was the one doing the majority of the tastings I was having sips here and there so one of us was able to safely drive!

One winery I’d never heard of was 8th Generation Winery. The name goes without saying that 8 generations later, the story of this winery continues on. We ended up purchasing two bottles of their wine, one being Confidence 2019 (Frizzante) a new release with tasting notes of Wild strawberries, Rainer Cherries. It was quite crisp and tasted of fresh field berries mingle with a hint of pink grapefruit. I’m a sucker for a little bubble so this was a super nice touch. Also to curb my sweet tooth we grabbed a Late Harvest wine that is meant to be like a dessert wine.

Finally to round off our wine-ventures we stopped into Sumac Ridge Estate Winery – Black Sage Vineyard – Steller’s Jay, Summerland Estate Winery and Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards at Greata Ranch.

It’s safe to say we had a jam-packed but fun time in Penticton and are looking forward to maybe making this an annual trip!

Let’s talk about Lube-baby!

December 1, 2019December 1, 2019Features, Life, Relationships

Disclosure: This post is sponsored and in partnership with K-Y®. All reviews and opinions are my own and the products were provided as part of this partnership.

I’ve never been one to shy away from talking about sex – I think it’s one of the most liberating topics to discuss in motherhood and in the relationship space (from dating to marriage). At the end of the day, motherhood begins with sex… but why is it that once we become a mom we’re ashamed about having and talking about sex and our sexuality?

In the past and even now I have been open about my own sex life and how it has changed over the years from being a single young-adult to pregnancy and then into motherhood. But no one ever seems to talk about getting “back on the horse” and the pressures that stem from your first sexual experience after having a baby or even just having sex thereafter. To be honest it scared me at first too! From how your partner may view you to just how the body naturally changes after birthing a child (or even multiple).

Sometimes the words “sex” and “mom” used in conjunction may seem natural to some when other’s it definitely doesn’t. It can trigger different images and emotions in each of us whether it is through how we were raised or how we view others in society and through social media. By narrowing your mind you’re actually limiting how you can enjoy and view sex when it really shouldn’t be so calculated and tight-lipped. If you really think about it, just as a child’s needs change at each stage of development, your needs as a mother change too. Sexual positions that once felt awesome may become awkward or even painful as you, your hormones and your body change. At the end of the day the big taboo question we face as moms is, is it OK to be a mom who enjoys sex? Well, that answer is of course… YES!

That’s why I am so excited to tell you about these amazing K-Y products such as the K-Y® WARMING® JELLY Personal Lubricant, K-Y® JELLY Personal Lubricant, K-Y ® NATURALS® INTIMATE GEL EXTRA MOISTURE+ and K-Y® SENSUAL SILK® PERSONAL LUBRICANT! With this bundle, you’re truly able to take control of your sex life and find something for every mood and occasion… or just because!

I personally love using the K-Y WARMING® Jelly because it features everything you love about the original K-Y® Jelly formula with an added warming sensation to help jump-start intimacy between me and my fiancé. I love how gentle and non-greasy this formula is and how easily it washes off after use (including the sheets)! Did you know K-Y WARMING Jelly can be used all over the body for intimate massages as well? So it doesn’t necessarily have to be all about sex!

I think that one of the best parts of knowing your body allows you the freedom to explore, investigate, and be playful sexually with yourself and your loved one without feeling like the other person will judge you. Why can’t sex be a celebration of all the amazing things your body has done (and continues to do) for you? From bonding in an intimate way to carrying a child. Nothing is sexier than a mom who’s willing to stand up and state her needs.

At the end of the day, how you have sex and what you choose to bring into the bedroom is a choice that only you can make. I am happy to be joining K-Y® to promote and encourage women to take control of their bodies and their sex life by putting pleasure and comfort first! ** If you’re pregnant, in the early stages of motherhood or have a few wonderful bundles of joy running around your home, using a personal lubricant can help make sex that much more enjoyable and fun.

Are you going to try any of the K-Y® products I mentioned above, or have you already in the past? I would love to hear about your experience if you feel comfortable sharing!!

If you want to get in on the ‘action’ K-Y is hosting a contest that you won’t want to miss!

Contest details: Runs December 31st, 2019
Prize: Participants could win 1 of 4 $1000 Spa Gift Cards.
To enter visit: www.mykycontest.ca/Ymc

**Disclaimer: It is important to consult your physician before using any K-Y® products while pregnant or breastfeeding – please speak with your doctor right away if you have any questions or concerns prior to the use of products.