Are you One of The Lucky Giveaway Winners?

Remember my post about how it's never too late to say Thank You?

Well, it's also never too late to share happy news with people. And I have a lot of happiness to share.

In case you forgot, this was the second year that we've participated in The Great Canadian Blog Bash.

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.

And the lucky winners are...

The Great Canadian Blog Bash #Giveaway, $400 in Prizes! #TGCBB, CAN, 7/11

I love all things Canada.

The landscape, people, the freedom, the diversity, our accents (wait, everyone else is the one with the accents).

Everything.

Over the past year, I have made it my goal to focus on supporting and highlighting Canadian talents. In order to do so, I have created an I Am Canadian Monthly Feature and Linky, I Am Canadian Pinterest board and have focused on promoting Canadian companies.

This is our second year participating in The Great Canadian Blog Bash and this year it's bigger and better! Be sure to visit their site for 100's of Canadian featured blogs and giveaways just like this one.

This year, we are honoured to introduce you to seven talented individuals. All of which happen to be Canadian. Without further ado...

Let's Meet Some Great Canadians!

1. Melissa Avey from Melissa Avey Photography.

Melissa Avey is a child and family photographer from Cambridge, Ontario. She's also a wife and mommy of two little boys and expecting Baby #3 any day now.

Her photography business began in 2011 after years of taking pictures as a hobby and learning through workshops and mentorships with various respected photographers. Since then she has enjoyed capturing artistic images for many wonderful families.

Melissa Avey Photography is giving away a $100 gift card that may be used between September 2013 and September 2014. Please note that your session will take place on location in Cambridge, Ontario or the City of Toronto Only. Feel free to use the gift card towards any offered service.

2. Allegro Events located in Ottawa, Ontario.

They offer event planning services from Weddings through to Corporate events.

Their services range from one day to creating and implementing a theme. Why choose an event planner? Because we can help you save money. Allegro Events believe your event should be happy and stress free and within your budget.

Allegro Events is giving away a $150 Gift certificate for a Free Consultation to anyone located from Montreal to Toronto (including Ottawa).

3. Maya from BK Inspired.

Maya is a Work-at-Home Mom to two young boys and Mountie husband who live in a small town east of Toronto and situated on Lake Ontario. She has many creative interests but pyrography (wood burning) is her favourite.

She loves to see a design take shape as the tool moves over a piece of wood. She draws inspiration from everything around her; her kids, nature and especially other artists and pyrographers. She is constantly honing her skills and developing her own style.

Maya is giving away a set of four hand pyrographed coasters valued at $35. As well from now until July 11, she is offering 10% off any purchase in her shop with code: zoo2013.

4. Basia from Yumme Designs.

The name of my company, Yumme (pronounced yummy), is named after a very special part of my life... my Kids, Ewan and Emma.

My goal is to create each piece individually so that it will become meaningful to the new owner.

My first inspiration for starting this business was not being able to find a suitable head piece for my wedding so I ended up making one for myself from a silver necklace.

Because of my eastern European background, I use a lot of Baltic Amber in my work. It has been around for millions of years and has been used for thousands for its healing properties, not only for adults but also for children.

Basia is giving away a $20 Gift Certificate to her Etsy Shop. Have fun choosing from all the jewellery items for adults and kids.

5. Heather from This is Sew Me Organic.

Heather has been sewing, designing, knitting, and crocheting for eight years now. Along with her husband Sebastian, they created the inspiration behind their diaper line, their son Atticus. As Christians, they thank God for all the talent he has given them.

Their line of diapers are completely natural and organic. The fabrics have been carefully chosen with much consideration to make them lasting and extremely comfortable for your baby to be in.

Heather is giving away an "All in 2 Diaper" valued at $30.

6. Cat from FlipSize Canada.

Flipsize turns unwanted kid's clothes into cash! We call it flipping. Flipping is a way to clear out those closets easily and quickly, while still earning points which can be exchanged for gift cards, clothing or paypal cash.

Simply order a FREE inbound bag, fill it with excellent condition children's clothing and send it to FlipSize. We will cover the cost of shipping and assign points to your items.

FlipSize guarantees that what you see, is what you get! You can shop knowing that each item has been thoroughly inspected. Brand name clothing for your kids that is 50-90% off retail prices. Located in British Columbia, FlipSize is a small business that works hard to make your life a little easier!

FlipSize Canada is giving away a $30 Gift Certificate.

7. Cyn Gagen from Creative Cynchronicity.

Creative Cynchronicity, is a place to share family tested recipes, quick and easy craft ideas, home DIY projects, parenting tips, creative ideas for family fun, adventures in traveling, product and service reviews, Cyn's charitable works with Charity Wings and her expertise as a social media manager.

Cyn is a Mother to one soon to be Teacher and Grandmother to two; a crazy German Shepherd who thinks she's a lap dog and a bossy cat who thinks she's a princess. She's so busy on social media that it has been suggested that she sleeps with her laptop in one hand and cell phone in the other.

Cyn is giving away a one month ad on her blog valued at $35. Note that you may gift this win to another blog, charity or perhaps send someone a birthday wish. Cyn reserves the right to deny requests that do not meet the moral integrity of her blog.

TweetShare this Giveaway Hop with with other Canadians!

Enter to win 7 prizes worth $400 Below!

Sponsorship Opportunity! The Great Canadian Blog Bash {#TGCBB}

Dear Canadians,

It's that time again.

Where you run around frantically trying to find an awesome blog that will help you promote your amazing product.

To top it off, you want one that is run by a Canadian who is supportive and cute. Did I mention awesome?

Well, look no further because Journeys of The Zoo is once again participating in this years...

The Great Canadian Blog Bash!

A Big Thanks to All My TGCBB Giveaway Sponsors!

Since this whole process began (one month ago), I have met so many great people. Many of which, I am proud to say I now call friends. Doesn't hurt that they're also Canadians.

Not only that but I've really found my focus (all things Canadian) and am currently planning the next "I am Canadian and I am more than just Maple Syrup" Giveaway (although there's nothing the matter with maple syrup, yum)! Please contact me if you'd like to participate.

I'd like to thank all of the following Canadian sponsors for giving so generously.

1. BKInspired
2. Audrey and Gem
3. JuJus Hair Accessories
4. Current Works of Glass
5. Bayleaf Buttons
6. SusieQTee
and
7. Fanfare Designs
.

Without further ado, the winner of the seven prizes totaling $112.50 is...

Jodi. S. from Rants and Rascals!

Jodi has been contacted via email and has 48 hours (until July 5 at 7am EDT) to confirm her win. If confirmation is not received by this deadline, another winner will be selected using the same method.

Don't forget to enter the other giveaways that we have going on. All are open to Canadians (check the post for other eligibility). Be sure to check back often (subscribe to receive up-to-date details). You can check the "Giveaways" page or the list of "Current Giveaways" in the right hand column.

1. Say Hello Diamonds and Avon (07/05)
2. Smile Brilliant! Teeth Whitening (07/06)
3. Web Design by The Crafty Bees (07/10)
4. Handmade Goods ($175) (07/16)
5. I've Burdened you Enough (07/31)

Don't Miss Out on The Chance to Win!

Besos, The Zoo

The Party That Almost Wasn't, Canada Day 2012

For the past two years, we've been going to friends of ours for their Canada Day celebration (Chuck's birthday--the host is on the 3rd). It's a four day extravaganza but the Sunday is reserved for a massive potluck with around 75 people, a campfire, live band, swimming, fireworks and lots of beverages.

This year, things got a little mixed up. I misread their flyer (yes, they mail out flyers). I thought that it said that the party was on the Sunday, like it has been for years. Nope, they changed it on us.

It's not like they didn't tell us. No, I'm not talking about the flyer but the fact that they also texted us on Thursday to confirm that "they would see us on Saturday" to which I replied "Okay".

Then, Ed went to an auction in the morning, I went to Laz House to catch the tail-end of their 50% off warehouse sale, and Ed took Reina back to the vet (in Ogdensburg, NY) to get more medication for that pesky little problem she's been having. By the time he got home, it was 4pm. No problem, we'll just call our friends and let them know that we can't come and that we'll be there tomorrow instead for the usual shindig.

I called. They broke the news to me gently.

The time was 4:13pm.

The race began. I started throwing clothes in a pile; hats, shoes, suntan lotion, swimming gear (I never managed to find their bathing suits and/or swimming diapers), prepared the meat, went into the garden, picked lettuce, spinach, vegetables and made a salad to feed an army, cooked hard boiled eggs, told the kids to get themselves ready (didn't happen), got the dogs walked, had a clean-up in aisle four, amongst many other things.

At 5:09pm, we pulled into their house (a 12 minute drive).

Not a voice was raised in the process (I didn't have the time or energy to yell) but I am not looking forward to doing that again. Ever.

As for the party.

The weather was perfect, hot but not humid with a strong breeze. Our neighbour has a smoker and once again, he smoked our pork tenderloins and corn-on-the-cob. Best meat I've ever tried (the best chicken was at Rene's house on her "egg").

There were reprobates kids of all ages there and most of them were willing to play with the kids. We brought tons of toys including a package of mini bubbles (used at weddings) that all the kids enjoyed.

I didn't have time to take very many pictures (I'm just happy that I remembered to bring the camera) and the ones I did take weren't so great.

At dusk, the one-man band, Gilles Arsenault arrived. Gilles was a repeat entertainer (he played last year as well) and I know why. Gilles is a super friendly and kind chap. I got a chance to chat with him while he was setting up because Artemis wanted to notify him that the "moon was up in the sky" (which it was) and Max wanted him to know that "he too has a guitar". Gilles was really great with them encouraging them to talk into the microphone (they wanted nothing of it) and playing the harmonica just for them (Max just got one and loves it).

Then the magic started.

Gilles, an Acadian, originally from PEI plays a mixture of East Coast, Country, Rock and Folk. He always asks his customers for any special requests (beforehand) and shows up prepared. He entertained us with groups such as; The Tragically Hip, David Wilcox and Neil Young (Hello Canadians!) as well as Bruce Springsteen and Steve Earle. He played a lot more but I was busy looking after the kids and can't listen at the same time. Here is a video I took of the kids rocking out. They know a great sound when they hear one.

When Gilles isn't working his other full-time job, he has a regular gig at "The Clocktower" in The Glebe and his business card says that he can be reached at; gilles.arsenault@teksavvy.com.

Looking for really personal entertainment? Live within one hour of the Ottawa area (or farther, he talks fondly of Kingston)? Book wtih Gilles, he's your man!

The night ended with a big bonfire and fireworks to impress the International Des Feux Loto Quebec.

Even Alexander got dressed for the festivities.

Last but not least, Marcella arrived safe and sound in Ottawa yesterday (we haven't seen her since she left for Madrid in September). We're all scheduled to go out on Monday (Christina and family as well) to Boston Pizza courtesy of Ranting Ginger. I'll save that for another post.

Happy Canada Day!

Besos, The Zoo

The Great Canadian Blog Bash 2012 {Giveaway}, CAN, 07/01

The Zoo is so excited to be a part of this years "The Great Canadian Blog Bash"!

Not only is it in honour of Canada's Birthday (July 1) but it is also all about showcasing Canadian talent.

One lucky Canadian will be the recipient of the following seven prizes valued at $112.50!

Happy Canada Day!

1. Maya from BKInspired. I live in a little picturesque town on the shores of Lake Ontario with my Mountie husband and two little boys (B&K). I am inspired by everything around me and that is reflected in my shop as I tend to have a variety of styles. Every customer is so different and I love to collaborate with them to create the perfect gift or something for themselves. Maya is offering the winner a Hand Pyrographed Maple Leaf Wall Art on 5x8 bamboo valued at $35. Also, from now until July 15, use the purchase code "zoo2012" to receive 20% off your order!

2. Gemma from Audrey and Gemma. Gemma is the creative genius behind her etsy shop, audreyandgemma and personal blog, www.thesweetestdigs.com. It's not just me that thinks she's all that and a bag of chips, as she was just awarded Cityline’s "Blogger of the Month" for June. Congratulations! I hope that Gemma's creativity is contagious. Gemma is offering the winner their choice of an "i love canada" watercolour map print (based on an original watercolour painting).

3. Jennifer from Current Works. I am a glass artist living on a riverbank near Canada’s capital city, Ottawa. I work with stained and fused glass mixed with photography, gem stones, copper, reclaimed iron, and other metals. I like the combination of modern and feminine. This glass pendant represents my love of glass and the natural Canadian landscape; a perfect combination! It is created with glass frit (a powdered glass) that is then fused in my kiln twice to create the desired effect. Jennifer is offering the winner a Glass necklace featuring a Canadian Landscape.

4. Susan from SuzieQTee. I was looking for some ideas on how to craft with recycled material when I stumbled upon a website showing how to make T-shirt yarn. I was immediately intrigued by the idea and that's when SuzieQTee was born. The T-shirt yarn (also known as tarn) is made from recycled t-shirt material that has been pre-washed and pre-shrunk. The yarn is hand cut into a continuous strip of cloth and then given a gentle tug which creates the rolled yarn. Susan is offering the winner a Tarn Toy Turtle valued at $35.

5. Casey from FanFare Designs. Situated in rural Western Quebec just outside of the Captial of Canada, at an in-home studio, Casey, creator of Fanfare Designs, specializes in creating beautiful, modern wedding invitations and stationery. Recognized for excellent customer reviews and for using high quality materials through WeddingWire's Bride's Choice Awards 2012, be sure to check out her Fanfare Designs Etsy Shop for all your stationery needs. Casey is offering the winner 10 Customized Chevron Note Cards. Maybe a Red and White set with "Eh?" for the occasion?

6. Juwon from Juju's Hair Accessories. I am a stay at home mom to a beautiful 19 month old Boy. Yes, a boy. It's pretty hard to design pretty hair accessories when there's no one to model them. However, I've managed to get around this by remembering my childhood and recalling what I wanted as a little girl. I started out making hair bows/clips and have since expanded to bracelets, earrings, rings, and even boys bowties. Juwon is offering the winner their choice of a ladybug or polka dot package (headband, hair bow(s) and/or hair clips) valued at $20. That's not all, from now until July 15, use the purchase code "JourneysofTheZoo" to receive 15% off your order!

7. Megan from Bayleaf Buttons. Sharing thoughts, views, laughs and anything else you can put on a button! My name is Megan, I am the owner of Bayleaf Buttons which specialises in 1.5" Pinback Buttons. We have a variety of premade items in our Etsy store but we also LOVE to do custom orders of all quantities from 1 to infinity! Megan is giving away a gift certificate for $6.50CDN towards her store.

Free. Note that all prizes include free shipping within Canada (including the gift certificate). Sponsors are not allowed to enter the giveaway, however, friends and family can (and are encouraged to do so!).

Disclosure. I was going to write that I did not receive anything, nada, neite in exchange for posting this giveaway. However, Maya went and sent me one or her original pyrographed bookmarks. Thanks for messing everything up Maya (smile).

Eligibility. This giveaway is open to Canadians Only and will be open until 11:59pm EDT on July 1, 2012. Winner selection will be made via random.org. I will contact the winner via email (please be sure to leave yours) and the winner will have 48 hours to respond at which time, I will pick another winner. Once the winner is confirmed, the sponsors will contact them directly.

Questions? Email me at journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com

The Rafflecopter Form and Linky have been removed.

This giveaway is posted on Linkies Contest Linkies, Contest Girl and Win Free Stuff.

  Besos, The Zoo

Seeking Sponsors: #TGCBB Giveaway Starts June 25!

I'm getting really excited. I'm like that.

I've been annoying people working really hard to get sponsors for "The Great Canadian Blog Bash" in celebration of Canada's Birthday on July 1!

So far, there are seven confirmed sponsors with a total prize pack of $112.50! Talk about generous, Eh!

Check out what one lucky winner will score;

1. Hand Pyrographed Maple Leaf Wall Art from B K Inspired ($35)
2. "I Love Canada" print from Audrey and Gem ($16)
3. Glass Pendant from Current Works of Glass ($20)
4. Tarn Toy Turtle from SuzieQTee ($35)
5. Ten Customized Chevron Notecards from Fanfare Designs ($15)
6. Gift Certificate from Bayleaf Buttons ($6.50)
7. Hair Package from Juju's Hair Accessories ($20)

There's still time if you want to get involved or know someone who might. This is a great opportunity to get your shop, blog, products noticed with no advertising costs! No gift is too small, gift certificates are also cool. the only requirement is that you are Canadian.

Interested? Send me an email at journeysofthezoo at hotmail dot com and get in on the action!

Hope to hear from you!

  Besos, The Zoo

Reason #325 Why I Don't Bake Cookies [Humor]

As you're well aware, I don't cook or bake. Partly because I don't like to and partly because I don't have any time.

Well, apparently, I DO have time on my hands because I was looking through my pictures and saw that I'd baked cookies this week. (I'd forgotten, there's a first time for everything, the baking cookies part, not the forgetting...).

As you can see, they didn't turn out so well. I'm being generous.

The good news, they tasted amazing!

This was the mix that Carrie gave us ladies as a Baby Shower gift. Thanks to The Sheriff for the vanilla and baking sheets.

Because a National Holiday is not complete without a Vet visit (seriously, it isn't), Ed will be heading to Ogdensburg this afternoon to get Aries eye checked out.

I know that you're not supposed to start a sentence with "because" but it just sounded so right and better than "since".

She had a little "altercation" with the dogs on the front porch last week. And while she was holding her own from behind the BBQ, I think she scratched her eyelid on something. Anyways, it's been pussing (sorry for the details) for a couple of days so we decided to get it checked out.

Sorry for being totally negligent in my posting obligations (seriously, how many times have I said that in the past few months, in addition, how many times have I said seriously). It's just that the kids keep me so busy. I hardly ever get any time to go on my computer. After they're in bed, we eat dinner (sometimes as late as 9-9:30pm), then I check out some blogs, read emails and I just don't have the energy to write anything that might make sense and post non-existent pictures that I didn't have any time to take. How did I do it for the past 13-months?

Tomorrow we're going to our Newfie friends "Canada Day shin-dig". It should be a blast and they know how to have a good time. Rumour has it there will be a live band, swimming in their pool and tons of kid activities (there will be alot of kids). I'll try to take some pictures and post.

We've started to let the kids into the bathroom (while accompanied) and they've taken an interest in the potty. They both want to STAND in it but we'll take it. After I posted this, I remembered that Max started to whimper after I took the picture. Note his hand...

Hope that it's a lovely day where you are. It sure is here.

After two years teaching English in South Korea, Marcella comes home tonight at 11pm. We are SO excited to see her. Unfortunately (for us), she will only be staying for eight weeks (or less) and then will be heading to Spain to teach (once again) for one year. Welcome Home MID!

Have Plans for Canada Day?