This is probably the only time that you'll hear me say this.
Don't Visit The Zoo on Sunday, September 29.
No, we've not been hacked and/or taken hostage by The Kids.
Yes, I'm serious.
The reasoning?
Journeys of The Zoo Website is Under Construction.
If you're technical, it's probably sufficient to say that we're moving from Blogger to WordPress.
If you're not, then you probably think that you're on the wrong blog because this one talks Chinese. Rest assured, all is right with The Zoo.
To make a long story short, it's kind of like Aunt Sally is making her famous Pavlova but she ran out of one of the ingredients so instead of serving it for dinner tonight, she's going to go out tomorrow and get the ingredient so that you can have your Pavlova.
On Monday, September 30.
I'm sure you're thinking what I'm thinking, What will I do with my day!?
If you're really stuck, do what we're doing, go to Mountain Apple Orchard for a three year olds birthday party. Isn't that what everyone does when their website is Under Construction?
No matter what you do, please don't leave a comment. Unless you don't want me to see it, in that case, leave all the comments you want.
I will not get any new comments.
For Today Only.
Bottom line, our website will be Under Construction for ONE DAY (if everything goes according to plans).
On Monday, September 30, I will write a post titled "New Look, New Feel, Same Old Journeys of The Zoo" (or something like that, I've been known to change my mind).
When we first got Reina, we didn't know how to introduce her to Aries.
Ed and I came up with what seemed like a great idea at the time.
In reality, not so much.
Thankfully, the only thing that got hurt was Aries finger nail and Reina's pride. It could have been much worse and it sure would have been nice to have some help along the way.
The great news is that cats and dogs don't have to fight like cats and dogs with these,
Useful Tips from Iams.
Iams wants to educate owners of both cats and dogs on how to maintain relationships between their four-legged friends. Here are some things you can do to help your dogs and cats get along.
Read on to ensure that you don't make sure that you don't make the same mistakes we did!
Wait a minute, don't answer that. I know exactly where it went.
First of all, Ed has been gone all week. That means, I'm in charge of the entire Zoo by myself. Good news is that he comes home tomorrow and The Kids are still happy. Who wouldn't be after dining on cookies for breakfast. Twice.
Part of the week was spent posting new giveaways; one for an incredible knife from CUTCO Cutlery, Authentic tasting rice from Tilda Canada and a Wellness Mat to support your health and compliment your home décor. You can find them all HERE and in our side bar over <--- THERE.
And, we posted our happy conclusion of Aries and her Royal Canin #CatsAgingGracefully Challenge.
A BIG Congratulations to soon-to-be brides, Larisha from We're Parents and Alex from Mommys Craft Obsession. These lovely ladies are in such wedded bliss that they want you to join in their Wedding Celebrations. So much so that they've allowed me to offer you the chance to...
Enter to Win a Wellness Mat!
Wellness Mats knows that consumers are aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. In 2000, they set out to manufacture products that truly make a difference.
The philosophy is simple, if they can address the health and safety concerns of millions in the workforce, then they can extend it to the home setting too. These mats are the mat of choice for Homeland Security and TSA and widely advocated and used in the hospitality, industrial, medical, and health & spa industries.
They believe in doing things the right way and that means from innovation to technological advancements their company is built on integrity and honesty. And because they are the manufacturer, they know every mat shipped is handled with the same care, concern, & commitment. Wellness Mats will also never compromise their products, values, or integrity by looking for shortcuts.
The added bonus is that every mat is 100% "Made in America" and not overseas.
Here's what Larisha wants you to know about this great product.
When I started thinking about my wedding registry, I wanted to make sure that I remembered things that were not common, but that I would really need in our brand new home. For us, one of those things were bath mats. I didn't want just any old bath mat though, I wanted the best. And I knew to get the best, I needed to go straight to Wellness Mats for their superior quality and amazing craftmanship. Their Vanity Collection is designed to look amazing in your bathroom, but will look great no matter where you put it.
Visit We're Parents!? to check out the review and then enter to win a 3x2 Vanity Collection mat of your choice below. Wellness Mats is a must have on the for the wedding registry!
In that case, you'll be interested in reading all about our experiences with CUTCO Cutlery Kitchen Products and having an opportunity to Win a CUTCO Cutlery Product for yourself.
We eat a lot of basmati rice. Probably five times a week and the other two days it's pizza and pasta. Yes, that much.
It's my go to side dish because the kids love it and it's easy to prepare in my rice cooker.
The only thing that would be easier would be to put it in the microwave for two minutes but that's not possible. Or is it?
Introducing Tilda Legendary Rice!
If I could share with you the aromatic and authentic smells that this rice exudes, I would because it's a taste for your senses. And, I'd be a gazillionaire.
The Pilau Steamed Rice is delicately infused with Indian spices and made me feel like I was in an Indian restaurant. You could taste each of the ingredients on the label with the added benefit of no artificial flavours, preservatives and it's Gluten free! I was impressed that you could clearly see the cumin seeds (pictured). The Mushroom rice was just as impressive in taste but the nutrition facts are what really caught my attention.
If you're concerned about fat, calories and sodium, there was no comparison between the leading brands "seasoned rice side dish" and Tilda. The calories were more than three times greater as was the sodium and the fat was twice as much in the leading brand. Tilda was the healthier choice by far.
The Pure Basmati Rice was the one variety that didn't impress. While the aroma was lovely, both Ed and I would have liked it to have tasted saltier. Then again, it has 1/5 of the sodium content of the other varieties. A definite plus if you need to watch your sodium levels.
We live in a small town (population 4,000) so I was really excited to find that my local grocery store, Food Basics, carried all four varieties.
Considering there are only two servings per package (250g), I found that $2.99 (per package) to be expensive for regular meals for a family of four.
However, when we entertain, it would be well worth the price to buy a few packages, throw them in the microwave only minutes before dinner and voila, instant fancy rice that isn't burned! There is definitely a price to getting to spend less time in the kitchen and more with friends. If it was just Ed and I, we would definitely eat this product at least one a week.
I'm not very daring in the kitchen, however, rice doesn't only have to be for dinner. Tilda has tons of lunch and even breakfast recipes. I know!?
If you're a lover of rice or appreciate something a little different, Tilda Legendary Rice is definitely a product that you should try.
You know when you don't know what you're missing until you know what you're missing. And by the time you figure it out, you wonder how you ever lived without that thing that you weren't missing but now are.
Confused?
It's simple. I'm talking about...
Kitchen Knives and Accessories from CUTCO Cutlery!
I wouldn't call myself a Chef or even a person that can cook so I thought that I didn't need any fandangled stuff for the kitchen.
I was wrong.
First of all, CUTCO Cutlery is more than just knives, they have woodblocks, table settings, scissors, pizza cutters and can openers to name a few. The variety of products is incredible and their knives are versatile.
Take this 2¾" paring knife for example.
As you can see from the pictures, I do a lot more than just pare with it. I cut, core, and slice with a side of paring. I like having one knife in my arsenal that I can use for all my fresh food needs.
I didn't realize how dull my existing 4" knife was until I started using my new CUTCO knife. It made me feel like I was cutting butter even when it was a carrot.
CUTCO® knives have been made for more than 60 years at their factory in Olean, N.Y., and endure several rounds of testing. Each knife is inspected before it's shipped to you.
I understand that purchasing CUTCO products is a significant investment. I mean, they don't exactly cost $5. So, why not make 100% sure with an in-home demonstration. You have the benefit of using the products before making a purchasing decision. You have nothing to lose!
We are also the happy owners of CUTCO's snazzy new can opener.
No more pains in the fingers, spilling the contents everywhere or having a tool that generally doesn't work. I'm getting too old for all.
What really impressed me was that Artemis was even able to twist the knob and she's three!
My search for quality kitchen products is OVER!
In case you haven't heard, "Cooking with Cutco" is a brand new division in the CUTCO Family. CUTCO has traditionally been sold by students and this past year we have launched a new program, Cooking with CUTCO, to expand our reach to everyone else who isn't a student. At a Cooking Experience, we create delicious meals using our CUTCO Cutlery and Cookware! These meals are easy, delicious and nutritious. Whether you are demonstrating our products during a one on one consultation, a couple's dinner party or a girls night out – the choice is yours! This is a ground floor opportunity for people across Canada. With CUTCO, you are in business for yourself but not by yourself! Check out our website for more information on this amazing new Cooking with Cutco opportunity.
A friend of mine, Create with Joy does a weekly meme. This week's theme is "Share Something Good".
Seeing as she is always supportive of my weekly BlogLovin Hop, I thought that I'd participate.
Except, I couldn't.
Well, I could but what would I have to write about?
• About how I spent two hours brushing Aries?
• About the clothes that I have packed to take to House of Lazarus?
• About that cup of coffee that I made Uncle Eric this week?
While they're good deeds, they aren't exactly world shaping events.
Then I thought, I should have a shower.
Not because I'm smelly but because, truth be told, I do some of my best thinking in the shower. But then I realized that I'd already showered this week.
And then, a thought came to me.
I almost didn't remember what it was because I was so excited that,
a) I had a thought outside the shower,
b) that I remembered it and,
Aries the Cat is now in week two of the Royal Canin Cats Aging Gracefully Challenge. Given all the positive changes so far, it's no wonder that Royal Canin is the leading cat food for mature cats.
Last week, I wrote about her improved appetite and digestion so this week, I thought that I would focus on her appearance and energy levels.
We became an affiliate for Zulily. If you haven't checked them out, you should. They have absolutely adorable items for the whole family and your home (!) for up to 90%. New items arrive daily. Create an account and start saving on your first order. Invite friends and earn credits yourself!
But rest assured, Tuesday's are all about WINNING and PROMOTING and today is...
Journeys of The Zoo Weekly Giveaway Linky!
CONTESTERS. Bloggers will be adding their giveaways to the linky throughout the week so be sure to come back often and check for new opportunities to WIN!
Don't forget to enter all the other giveaways posted to our jam packed Facebook Giveaway Wall. Note that a link is also provided in the left hand column over there <-------
BLOGGERS. This linky receives daily promotion via The Zoo's social media links.
Be sure to also add all your giveaways to our Facebook Giveaway Wall. NO LIMITS! Please post end dates.
Every week we shop at our local thrift shop, every month we donate clothes and every year we give toys to kids in need. Charity is a big part of life at The Zoo and small gestures can make a big difference.
What if you all you had to do was submit an idea. One idea and you could win a lot.
Recently, I posted about a great giveaway that Wholly Guacamole was hosting (and still is). In turn, as a thank you, they kindly sent me a bunch of coupons.
Seeing as I'm nice (remember?). I've decided to share some of them with you because we all know that...
Canadians Love Coupon Giveaways!
If you're like me and wouldn't know what to do with your avocado or salsa products if you won, have No Fear!
Wholly Guacamole has tons of great recipes and Mommy Outside made this mouth watering egg-tart-frittata-thing-a-ma-bob with Wholly Guacamole Salsa (or according to her, an omelette muffin).
In case you didn't notice, we've been getting around.
It began with our trip to the bowels of Algonquin Park for our annual family vacation at The Taylor Statten Camps. Five days without internet was refreshing. Or, maybe it was the air.
Artemis' collection was down to only 34 tutus so I decided to become an affiliate with Zulily (affiliate link). Nothing the matter with saving up to 90% off on kids, womens and houseware items.
As much as I thought that there couldn't be anything easier than retirement I was wrong; it's been a difficult, stressful, confusing time that's often left me feeling groundless. It's also been a wonderful time of freedom and exploration.
Aries The Cat is my first grown-up pet. Or should I say, I'm her first servant.
The past 17 years have been wonderful and she looks better than most 84-year old ladies! However, there's no denying that she's aged.
When I heard about the Royal Canin Aging Gracefully Challenge, I knew that she deserved to live out the rest of her life in luxury with Royal Canin!
Since beginning the transition around two weeks ago, Aries has had so many successes! Most importantly, her appetite has increased significantly and her digestion has improved.
Sorry that I missed all of you last week but I was in the middle of the Canadian Wilderness roasting marshmallows over an open fire.
We didn't have toilets let alone internet.
Seriously.
But, I'm back with tons of giveaways to share with you in this weeks...
Journeys of The Zoo Weekly Giveaway Linky!
CONTESTERS. Bloggers will be adding their giveaways to the linky throughout the week so be sure to come back often and check for new opportunities to WIN!
Don't forget to enter all the other giveaways posted to our jam packed Facebook Giveaway Wall. Note that a link is also provided in the left hand column over there <-------
BLOGGERS. This linky receives daily promotion via The Zoo's social media links. Be sure to also add all your giveaways to our Facebook Giveaway Wall. NO LIMITS! Please post end dates.
This store is one stop shopping even for the pickiest of clients. The variety of products in their store is incredible. From women's and men's clothing to shoes, purses, toys, kids, and even housewares.
To name a few.
Since opening our doors in 2008, we've played with the notion of taking the traditional hotel gift shop and re-imagining it in a contemporary and varied urban context. By capturing inspiration from the classic general store, the museum shop and the flea market stand, we've worked really hard to create unique destinations for classic and modern goods and goodies. Each of our stores are filled with a sense of whimsy and nostalgia, which caters to the sensible and the not so sensible; travelers and neighbours alike.
This year was a great success with over 2,660 views and 154 engaged entrants. I was honoured to have the opportunity to work with seven dynamic, unique and engaging Canadians. It turns out that Maya was a repeat Sponsor. Quite the compliment.
Since there was a "location component to several of the prizes, we actually had two winners this year.
Ed pulled out our trusty trap and searched the fridge for the tastiest of baits. He even consulted me on the options because we all know that I am well versed in "desirable mouse morsels". We both agreed that a dollop of Cambazola would do the trick.
He went down to the basement and set the mousetrap.
It's been many years since I set eyes on a Lions tonsils or the "presents" that the monkeys left on our car hood, however, I remember our visit and their catchy jingle like it was only yesterday.
Even after all those years, it was a favourite attraction of mine and now The Kids love it too. I'm referring to...
I know. Pretty hard to concentrate on anything else besides those mouth watering crabs.
In case you haven't heard of them, Big T Coastal, based out of South Carolina knows it's crabs and they're the Real Deal!
Our family's sought after recipe packs 100% real crabmeat into every creamy bite. We combine sharp cheddar and cream cheeses, spices and other signature seasonings with the freshest crabmeat to bring you a dip perfect for just about every occasion – from porches to picnics, tailgating to cocktail parties. A coastal Carolina entertaining favorite, Big T Coastal Provisions Crab Dip tastes best when shared with friends and family.
Big T Coastal is a strong supporter of Social Media and loves what it's all about. As a thank you to all the Bloggers who make a difference, they are giving away $250 CASH to support voiceBoks' awesome event coming soon!
Growing up, the first signs of summer were shorts and the purchase of Canada's Wonderland seasons passes. We could hardly wait for school to end and days of riding rollercoasters to begin. Our parents looked forward to us staying safe and out of trouble. Well, safe.
This year, we continued the tradition by introducing The Kids to the magic of...
Canada's Wonderland is a 330-acre theme park located in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, a suburb directly north of Toronto. It was opened in 1981 and is the first major theme park in Canada and remains the country's largest. The park hosts more than three million guests annually and employs over 4,000 seasonal employees and 160 year-round employees.
The last time Ed, Andrew and I were at the park was 2007. We didn't have to worry about parking, bad weather, line-ups, sweets for lunch or keeping two three-year olds amused for a day.
Seeing as we had The Kids this time, we opted for priority parking. For an extra $5, we parked within spitting distance of the front gates. Well worth the money when you have three adults, two kids and everything but the kitchen sink.
Fortunately, the weather was perfect and while the park was packed, as it is every day during the summer, attractions were run so efficiently that it didn't impact us at all.
Victoria Falls, Charlie Brown and Samurai Live Performances
Seeing as the wild card was the kids, we decided to focus on events for them and headed straight for Kidzville. On our way, we happened upon a scheduled performance of divers off of Victoria Falls. It was incredible to see and one of many performances that we watched throughout the day.
Fortunately, The Kids met the height requirements for most of the kid rides. There were so many that we didn't ride any of the twice and didn't even get to ride all of them. Their favourites were the Taxi Jam coaster, train and cars.
Some of the kids rides we enjoyed.
Even though there was signage, the one thing I found confusing was that some rides required one adult per child and some only allowed one adult for every two children. So if a family of four wanted to go on the ride together, they couldn't. Not a major inconvenience as I'm sure it was safety related and it gave each of us a chance to experience some adult rides. By the time we looked at our watches, it was 2:30pm and time for a culinary feast at...
The Marketplace International Buffet.
By 2:30pm, there weren't a lot of people eating, however, the food was still hot, freshly made and plentiful. The variety was really impressive from drinks to soups, salads and mains. Something for all ages and taste buds. Favourites included; roast beef, barbequed chicken, corn on the cob, Andrews favourite, pasta (anything) and the brownies. Oh the brownies. They even let Max take an ice cream to go which was a special treat.
Beware of the Brownies!
While it wasn't a scorcher outside, it was nice having a spacious, air conditioned place to eat and watch some performances. The restaurant and washrooms were clean and there was a lot of staff members around to help out when we asked for a booster seat and/or high chair (which they had). I don't normally eat at buffets because I feel like I have to eat more then I want to and still don't feel that I got my money's worth, however, I'd worked up an appetite and at $20 for an adult we definitely ate our weight... in brownies.
And then there was the Water Park. While The Kids have been around a lot of water, they've never had lessons and I didn't bring their lifejackets. Not an issue because there were plenty of life jackets available (in designated spots) and Life Guards everywhere. With all the hundreds of people around (maybe thousands), I normally would have been nervous, very nervous. However, it was obvious from the moment we enter the park that they took their roles and responsibility very seriously. I was so impressed with their protocols that I felt 100% safe with The Kids around the water. Not that we let down our guard but still. This was something that I've never felt before.
Fortunately, all the water activities were free because Artemis must have gone down the water slides at least 20 times. The bonus was that a life guard was at the bottom of each slide to catch her. We spent over an hour in the park and the only reason why we left was because Artemis had turned purple.
While most of the events and rides were included in the price of the park admission, some were extra such as bungee swinging, pictures, fair-like games (with prizes), and specialty products such as pictures, paintings and make your own [insert almost anything, including lip gloss flavour!].
Speaking of costs, I like to get the most for my money and expect a lot for it. Taking a family of four out for a day of fun at an amusement park can be very expensive. However, my calculations show that it cost us just over $5 an hour. Given all the costs with running the park such as; staff, lifeguards, property taxes, running and purchasing rides and the liability, I think that it was well worth the price.
Artemis dancing in the Street
Additional Notes. If you're coming on the Highway 400, take Canada's Wonderland Drive not Major MacKenzie. Or, you can ditch your car altogether and take the Go Bus for $9 return from Toronto. We brought our own stroller, however, they were available for rent. Travelling with your pet? No problem, Pet Kennel services are available. Note that we went on Tuesday, July 30.
In conclusion, our visit exceeded all my expectations for 10 hours of fun with two three-year olds! We will definitely be adding Canada's Wonderland to our Annual Family Vacation to do list. And this year, you can too by entering below to...
CONTESTERS. Bloggers will be adding their giveaways to the linky throughout the week so be sure to come back often and check for new opportunities to WIN!
Don't forget to enter all the other giveaways posted to our jam packed Facebook Giveaway Wall. Note that a link is also provided in the left hand column over there <-------
BLOGGERS. This linky receives daily promotion via The Zoo's social media links. Be sure to also add all your giveaways to our Facebook Giveaway Wall. NO LIMITS! Please post end dates.
Besos, The Zoo
