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Places to See March 10, 2022

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Winter Wonderland Getaway

Do you ever get that urge to just pack a bag and hit the road?! Well, our family sure does! AND, our next adventure was at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise!

First, can I just say how lucky we are to live a mere 2.5 hrs away from such a beautiful mountain escape? People from all over the world come and visit this historical landmark. So the fact that our family can drive up anytime we want to, well that’s pretty amazing!

Where to Stay [Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise ]

Every time we visited Lake Louise in the past, it’s either been a day trip or a quick pop-in on the way back home to Calgary. So staying overnight at the Fairmont Chateau, which is located only steps away from Lake Louise. Well, I can confirm that it was pretty magical.

At first, we were a bit hesitant to stay overnight because of the predicted cold front but we were so looking forward to this trip, that we decided to go ahead with it. To be honest, Lake Louise is worth visiting in the middle of winter regardless of what people may think.

There are a lot of fun things to do, but we’ll get to that later.

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is your home away from home. Whether you’re planning a girl’s trip or a fun family weekend away, your room will most likely have a mountain view!

Check this out: Our Trip to Jasper | Fairmont Jasper Lodge

Where to Eat [Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise]

Since we are locals to Alberta, we know that there aren’t many places to eat in town, especially after a certain time. So, of course, we took advantage of all the yummy restaurants that the Fairmont Chateau had to offer!

Here’s a quick list:

Also, if you aren’t a hotel guest, you can still enjoy all of these restaurants at your leisure! Grab some grub before heading home! It’s a perfect way to end your visit 🙂

Play Outside

So this is the part that I’m really excited to talk about! I know many visitors come to Lake Louise in the spring/summertime. I totally get why! It’s definitely a must-see and it also serves as a great photo op. BUT, can we just give winter a bit of a moment here?

Because there are SO many things to do! Especially in the wintertime.

Of course, we all know that Lake Louise freezes over in mid-December and stays frozen until late May/early June. Note that access for skating typically ends mid-April. This gives us about 5-6 months of frozen fun!

Here’s a quick overview of the winter activities you can do when visiting Lake Louise in the wintertime.

Ice Skating (if you don’t have pair of ice skates you can always rent them from the Chateau Ski & Snow rental)
Sleigh Rides (click here to book your slot & bring a blanket ! It runs until early April )
Snowshoeing / Cross Country Skiing ( with a guide or alone – rentals available )
Johnston Canyon Ice Walk
Ski Resorts / Tubing (located at the near ski hills)

While we were there we took advantage of the sleigh ride & ice skating! The kids had so much fun 😀

Play Inside

If you’re not a fan of outdoor activities, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to sit back and relax! For instance, our family hit up the hot tub & pool with the kids as many times as possible just so they could burn off that extra energy.

One thing I did want to mention for the parents, is the Kids Club! We all know that traveling with kids can be extremely exhausting, but we still do it anyway 😛

The Kids Club is a great way to schedule a break for mom & dad! The kids get to hang out and have fun (with supervision) while the parents can enjoy two incredible hours alone! We scheduled our couples massage at the spa, while the kids were away. I can confirm, that we definitely felt a lot more refreshed picking them up than we did dropping them off! I highly recommend taking advantage.

Overall Experience

I definitely don’t want to keep rambling on about our stay! SO, if you’re considering visiting Lake Louise and don’t know where to start. Check out the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise! The staff is super knowledgable and accomodating to both tourists and locals.

It’s a great way to explore the outdoors (in both the Winter & Summer), or a beautiful place to relax and get away from all the hustle and bustle.

You can find me over at Instagram, where I share about our trip! Just search for the Fairmont CLL highlight!

Thanks for reading!

Fashion November 18, 2021

Nordstrom Fall Fashion Finds #Midsizestyle

I’m back with another Nordstrom Fall Fashion post! Last time, I shared all the 90’s vibe and you were all digging it. This time, however, I wanted to keep it a little more cozy. You know, it is sweater weather after all!

To be honest, there is nothing better than feeling comfortable while looking stylish! This is why I made sure to pick items that would look great together and apart.

You may also like: Nordstrom Fall Must-Haves 2021

Nordstrom Fall Fashion

First, I wanted to remind you of the sizes I wear, since you can’t really tell in photos! I usually wear a size M/L in clothing, 31/32 in jeans, and size 7 shoes.

I’m what you consider a #midsizequeen! When shopping for pieces, I like to keep in mind, trends, style, and of course comfortability.

So, let’s start!

First up, this absolutely gorgeous Ribbed Wrap Front Sweater by ASTR the Label

The knotted detail is giving me life!! As someone who is bigger in the chest, I find that wrap shirts are super flattering and not too revealing. Click the link to shop.

Second, these Free People Bren High Waist Boyfriend Jeans

Did I mention that I’m obsessed with Free People? I own so many pieces and wear them often. I totally think that their clothing is worth the hype. Naturally, when I saw they had jeans, I had to have them!

these Ugg Classic Mini II Genuine Sherling Lined Boot

Let’s be honest, these definitely steal the show! I’ve always wanted a pair and now that I have them. Well, they literally never come off my feet!

With Black Friday and Christmas just around the corner, I would highly suggest adding everything to a wishlist and sending it to the family group chat. 😀

Wanna shop for these looks? Visit your local Nordstorm or simply click on the links throughout the post! It will take you directly to the Nordstrom website.

Happy Shopping!

Motherhood November 17, 2021

Calling All Alberta Teachers! Bundle and save with Sonnet Insurance

Can we chat about our Alberta teachers for a moment?! Well, really ALL teachers?! Not only were they tasked with all the new working conditions in 2020. But they also had to continue showing up for themselves, their students, and their families.

Celebrating Alberta Teachers

I remember receiving the news that my kids would be going from in-personal to virtual. Gosh, I was definitely not prepared for that. I can’t even imagine how the teachers felt.

It’s been almost two years of unknown and we are really thankful to have amazing teachers who are able to deal with the constant changes. They really have been a huge help to parents like me who really had no idea what they were doing!

To make sure the incredible educators in our lives feel appreciated, I’ve teamed up with Sonnet Insurance to spread the word about their wellness giveaway for Alberta-based teachers (current and retired)!

If you’re a teacher yourself or have a teacher near and dear to your heart, comment below on this post to enter for a chance to win a prize pack! One winner will be selected to receive the following prize:

Valued at more than $400 the prize pack includes:

Saje Aroma Diffuser, Aroma Blend Collection & Headache Relief Kit
Teachers These Days Book
An Ikea Crate
Rocky Mountain Soap Hand Butter
Pumpkin Spiced Chai Tea – Canmore Tea Company
Ginger Lemon Wellness – Canmore Team Company
Coffee Mug and Tea Strainer
I’m A School Teacher Socks
Notebook & Pen

Bundle & Save with Sonnet Insurance

In addition to the wellness giveaway, Sonnet has teamed up with TW Insurance Brokers to give Alberta teachers access to exclusive savings on home and auto insurance! An average savings of $978! Learn more about that here.

As someone who works from home, while taking care of the kids, I understand how important time is. SO I definitely don’t want to be spending hours on the phone waiting for a quote! I’d much rather spend it with my kids or husband making memories! Sonnet is Canada’s first fully online home and auto insurance company and their digital platform is user-friendly, gets you a quote fast (it literally took me 5 minutes!) and you don’t have to get on the phone.

Good luck with the contest everyone! The winner will be announced on my stories on December 3rd!

Places to See November 1, 2021

Fairmont Banff Springs | Visiting the Castle in the Rockies

First, can I start by saying that the Fairmont Banff Springs is as magical as they say it is? Immediately upon arrival, you feel like royalty!

To tell you the truth, we’ve always wanted to visit the castle in the rockies long before our move to Calgary! We’d always daydream what it would be like to be guests at the hotel. What we would do, where we would eat, and how long we would stay at the pool & hot tub. You know, kid-free stuff.

What we didn’t plan for was finally being able to stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, but as parents of two. AND still enjoying our time!

You may also like: Our Trip to Jasper | Fairmont Jasper Lodge

Visiting the Castle in the Mountains

To start, I wanted to share a little background. Before Miguel was a barber he was an audio guy. His career path led him to work at the Fairmont Banff for a few months back in 2007. While I was pregnant with Abel, he worked there for a few months to gain experience and save. He was there for about 8 months. I’m sure he would have lasted longer hadn’t it been for me growing our cute little human.

But, he never really got to enjoy the property in all its glory until two weeks ago when we all went as a family. And, when I say we enjoyed our experience, I mean it

As soon as we checked in, the kid’s excitement (and ours) was overflowing. The boys were handed crowns, which didn’t come off until we got home three days later. Crayons, colouring books, and a whole bunch of treats. They were so excited (as were we!).

Fairmont Banff Springs Fun for all!

When I say we didn’t leave the property for three whole days, I mean we didn’t leave the property at all. We checked in and stayed on site for 72 hrs. I wasn’t expecting to have so many cool and fun things to do as a family but we did!

Obviously, the pool was a hit with the kids but our personal fav was all the delicious food they had to offer. I don’t think we stopped eating the entire time we were there. I’m drooling even thinking about it, to be honest.

Here’s a quick list:

On top of all the food, I didn’t realize all the amenities that were available to our family. They offer resort activities like skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing in the winter. Fitness classes, bowling, supervised kids programming and so much more! Three days was definitely not enough time to do it all. BUT, It was enough time to appreciate it all.

Did I mention that they turn the Fairmont Banff into a literal snowglobe during the Christmas holiday?! And they have their personal ice rink in the back so you can skate with the mountain views?!

Overall Experience

I could probably go on and on about how fantastic our stay was at the Fairmont Banff Springs, but I think you’d probably get a little annoyed that I have nothing bad to say.

It was truly and honestly one of the best experiences we have had as a family. The kids are already asking when we are going back!

One thing I also wanted to share is if you show up a bit earlier and your room isn’t quite ready, the hotel staff will offer you a complimentary room to use in the meantime should they have the availability. Just so you can wait for your official room to be ready. Which I thought was pretty neat, considering many guests are traveling from out of town.

However, if you are an Alberta resident you can save up to 30% off by showing proof of Alberta residency. Check this link out for more info.

With all that being said, if you just want to go and relax at the Willow Stream Spa for a week you can do that too. Whatever your heart desires ;).

Enjoy!

Style & Beauty September 15, 2021

Nordstrom Fall Must-Haves 2021

EEK! you guys, I’m so excited to be partnering up with one of my absolute favourite brands, NORDSTROM.

Now, I know that I’m not a typical fashion blogger. However, what I do love is sourcing outfits that will fit bodies like mine. I’m a size 10/12, wear Size M/L, and have curves. Nordstrom has a fantastic selection for those who are midsize queens like me.

With that being said, here are my Nordstrom Fall Must-Haves for 2021.

Free People Ari Long Sleeve Minidress

I personally love anything Free People, so when I saw this long sleeve mini-dress, I added it to the cart immediately! I’m also a more sneaker over heels kinda gal, so I paired it with Converse Chuck Taylor High Top Platform Sneaker.

Next up:

BP Highwaisted Wide Leg jeans

I’m a sucker for anything 90s. I love that wide-leg flares are coming back in style! I remember wearing them in elementary and middle school. These ones from BP are True to Size and fit me perfectly. To keep with the 90s trend, I also got this soft Pointelle V-Neck Sweater It’s a perfect pairing, don’t you think?

BP One Shoulder Crop-Top

It wouldn’t be a completed look without a crop top thrown in here right?! Love that I was able to find affordable tops that are versatile and can be worn with whatever type of jeans you prefer.

As you can see, I used the same jeans and shoes for three different outfits! On that note, whenever I shop, I make sure that I am looking for items that I can use with more than one outfit!

Wanna shop for these looks? Visit your local Nordstorm or simply click on the links throughout the post! It will take you directly to the Nordstrom website.

Now tell me, which one is your favourite look? 1, 2, or 3? Leave a comment below!

Style & Beauty May 18, 2021

Why I Love Olay’s new Collagen Body Wash: 4 week skin update

It’s been exactly 4 weeks since I started using Olay’s new Collagen Body Wash! So far, my skin has been feeling smooth and silky after continued use and I’m not mad about it.

I’ll be the first to admit that I am a self-proclaimed skincare queen, but I tend to forget the rest of my body. Newsflash! The skin on your body is just as important as the skin on your face! This is why I’m so excited to share all about Olay’s new Body Washes.

Introducing Olay’s New Body Washes infused with premium skincare ingredients

On that note, Olay has recently launched its new collection of Body Washes infused with premium skincare ingredients that come in three different variants: Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C. So, depending on what your skincare needs and goals are, you can select one of these to help you on your skincare journey.

Here is a quick breakdown of each:

Collagen: Improves elasticity for firmer, more youthful-looking skin with continued use.
Hyaluronic Acid: Sometimes called a moisture magnet, it locks in moisture, keeping you hydrated throughout the day without that greasy feeling.
Vitamin C: A naturally-occurring antioxidant known to fight free radicals. Giving your skin a radiant glow while providing long-lasting hydration

All three are formulated with:

Vitamin B3 Complex: helps to deeply hydrate and replenish the skin’s moisture barrier

Olay Body Wash with Collagen and Vitamin B3

To be honest, before using the Olay Body Wash with Collagen, I never even considered the importance of a collagen-infused body wash.

However, after reading all about collagen body wash benefits (like how collagen is a “power protein” made of amino acids), plus the added benefits of the Vitamin B3 Complex that helps to deeply hydrate and replenish your skin’s moisture barrier, I just had to try it!

Soft and Silky Skin in 4 weeks

It has been four weeks since I started using Olay’s body wash with Collagen. First, let’s chat about the packaging quickly, super pretty (love the gold accents), and the pump on it makes it easy to use in the shower!

Second, the product lathers up really nice and smells great (but not too overpowering). With this product, I would say that a little goes a long way. Third, it feels so nice on my skin, as you can see from the picture above, I do have red spots on my arms but the body wash hasn’t irritated it further.

Finally, let’s talk about results! Ok, WOW, because my skin has really been feeling so soft, silky and it’s feeling firmer in just a few short weeks. I’ve definitely noticed a difference within the first two weeks but I wanted to keep using it for four so I could speak authentically about it.

Let’s be real, I’m definitely going to keep using the product because it’s just that good! Also knowing about the added benefits, seeing results so quickly, I don’t want to stop using it. PLUS, I’m eager to try out the two other formulas!

If you’re interested in learning more about the product or grabbing a bottle for yourself, check out Olay.ca! Now tell me in the comments, which one are you picking!

For Littles May 6, 2021

Time to Rethink our Role Models with H&M

Friends! I’m so excited to be partnering up with H&M to share all about their new Rethink our Role Models initiative. Intrigued? Let me get right into it.

What is Role Models x H&M all about?

When you first think of a role model, who do you automatically think about first? Our first thought might be to think of an adult, someone older than us who has had more world experience – but what if we put the spotlight on kids like the young changemakers of the future?

Instead of chatting about the clothes, H&M is focusing more on the kids who are wearing them!

They believe that the future belongs to those who live in it. It’s time to rethink our role models.

New Role Models

My kids are constantly telling me how they plan to change the world when they grow up! BUT, what I didn’t even think about is that they CAN start changing the world NOW. They don’t have to wait until they’re older. One of the things they want to do is to start planting more trees. This definitely gave us the nudge to go and do that, because why wait!?

H&M Kids wants to contribute to a better future by amplifying the voices of a young generation – our NEW role models. Because, everybody doing something good, big or small, in their very local community or with a global impact, is a role model.

Don’t you think?!

How to Join Role Models x H&M

If you have a special kid in your life and you would like to nominate them, please click this link here! Also, if you have the time, check out this really awesome film that was created by H&M. Click here to watch!

I found it to be really inspiring that these young kids are taking initiative to make a change!

Style & Beauty March 29, 2021

Elevate your Beauty Routine with Secret’s New collection with Essential Oils

Who else is ready for Spring?! I am! AND I’m already stocked up on the new Secret Collection with Essential Oils. The newest release by Secret and just in time for spring and summer!

Introducing the new Secret collection with Essential Oils

Working from home while taking care of my boys, means that I am running around all day. From the second I open my eyes to the moment I fall asleep. So, of course, as a busy mom of three, I’m searching for products that can keep up with me and my daily routine.

Secret’s new collection with Essential Oils is crafted with pure essential oils derived from roots, stems, and flowers of plants, hand-selected by expert perfumers and comes in amazing new scents like – Lavender + Eucalyptus and Coconut Oil + Mandarin.

I don’t know about you, but my two go-to scents are Lavender + Eucalyptus! A match made in heaven 😀

Why I trust Secret Collection with Essential Oils

You’re probably wondering how the new Secret collection with Essential Oils helps, so let me tell ya! Secret Antiperspirant with Essential Oils is free of dyes and parabens and offers 48 hours of sweat and odour protection.

Most days, it feels like I’m cramming two days’ worth of tasks into one! With the Secret Antiperspirant, I’m getting the extra protection that helps me stress a little less about how stinky I’m getting. Plus, I don’t mind the extra cuddles I get from my boys.

Also, did I mention that it’s also PETA-certified cruelty-free!? That’s a huge bonus in my books.

My beauty routine with the new Secret Antiperspirant with Essential Oils

Life as a content creator isn’t as glamorous as it seems. Most days, I’m juggling between, creator, chef, nurse, chauffeur, teacher, helper, mom, and photographer, just to name a few.

I work from home and sometimes that means I have a few balls in the air at the same time and self-care is last on that list. By the end of the day, I’m pooped and stinky, If I’m lucky I can sneak in a shower. But if not, I grab my Secret Antiperspirant with Essential Oils in the morning and get on with my day.

Final thoughts

Overall, it’s been a super helpful product for my busy days and you can grab some for yourself at any major retailer near you!

Now tell me, which scent would you choose?!

Places to See March 6, 2021

Family Friendly Winter Activities in Banff [Eat, Play & Stay]

There are so many great winter activities in Banff! My family of 5 has had the pleasure of visiting both in the Summer and in the Wintertime.

The last time I wrote about Banff, I shared some family-friendly activities in the summer. You can find that post here.

Now, our family had the opportunity to visit during the winter, and can I just say how magical it is? And, if you’re reading this you’re probably looking for some winter suggestions, and you’re in luck!

Where to Stay | Mount Royal Hotel

First things first, let’s chat about where to stay! Can I suggest the Mount Royal Hotel for you and your family to call home for a few days? Mount Royal Hotel is located right on Banff Avenue, in the heart and center of downtown Banff. Steps away from my absolutely favourite spot to grab dessert! Beavertails anyone? Trust me you’re going to want to grab one while you’re in town.

Also, the room rates are affordable for Banff Hotels and they also offer free breakfast if you book through this link (offer available until April; 30, 2021). You will also have access to Free parking, Wifi, a Rooftub lounge and hot tubs. (Currently, the rooftop lounge and hot tubs are closed due to the Big C- as I like to call it).

So please call ahead to ask about that (just in case).

With that all being said, there are plenty of things you can still do, just keep reading!

Where to Eat | Sky Bistro

Ok ok, let’s grab some grub! Our kids love to visit “the restaurant in the sky”. Because that’s exactly what it is (Elevated dining at 7,510 ft)! Located inside the Banff Gondola, enjoy some tasty eats in front of some incredible one-of-a-kind views.

They have a kids menu, which makes it easier for us parents. The menu is delicious and my personal fav is the Fish & chips from their Lunch menu. Bon appetite!

Book a table now!

Where to Play | Banff Gondola

Personally, I feel like you can’t visit Banff, without doing some “touristy” things like taking a ride up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola.

It’s so fun and exciting for the kids and those views, incredible! If you have the time, and kids who are willing, trek onto Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak. But don’t worry, if you can’t make it up the 1km with the kids in tow, you’ll still get to experience the 360 from the observation deck.

Overall, it’s definitely a “must-do” while you stay in Banff, Alberta. Oh! and don’t forget to smile on your ride down and grab yourself a souvenir:)

HOT TIP: One free child admission for each paying adult, daily before 12 PM. Offer valid online only. Grab your tickets here.

Winter Activities in Banff

We definitely have embraced the outdoors in the wintertime more than ever before. Banff Alberta in the wintertime is absolutely magical!

So here are some ideas for you and your entire family-friendly winter activities for you to enjoy!

Ice Skating on Lake Minnewanka (bring a shovel and hot chocolate to keep warm)
Visit Mount Norquay and go tubing (they also offer skiing, snowboarding, etc).
Banff Gondola Ride
Snowball Fight in the park
Explore a frozen canyon
Stroll down Banff Avenue and Grab a Beaver Tail
Dog Sledding
Visit Lake Louise (Bring ice skates and check out the Ice castle!)

These are just a few of the winter activities in Banff for all of you to check out! Of course, if you’re traveling with kids you have to be mindful of how much time you have and how long you are staying in Banff.

My kids are 3, 6, and 13 and still get a little bit tired from all the adventuring! Of course, if you are just going for the day, just doing one or two of those things can be exhausting! That’s why I like to stay overnight so that we have twos instead of one to explore the mountains.

I hope you found this helpful and happy adventuring!

**This post is sponsored by Pursuit

Style & Beauty February 10, 2021

Best Affordable Drugstore Skincare for Dry Winter Skin | Olay Canada

For as long as I can remember, skincare has always been such an important subject for me! Unfortunately, I have fallen victim to dry winter skin. Thankfully, I have Olay’s awesome skincare products that help me achieve soft, dewy, healthy skin year-round.

Introducing the new Olay Regenerist Ultra Rich Moisturizer

I’m so excited to be partnering up with Olay again to share all about their New Olay Ultra Rich Moisturizer. It’s the third addition to Olay’s Regenerist line-up, with a nourishing and creamy texture to instantly hydrate and visibly renew my skin.

It’s a unique formula, (which I will get to soon), that gives my skin that instant relief it craves.

The best part? It doesn’t leave you with a greasy finish! Ultra Rich is formulated with a unique shea butter blend that absorbs and penetrates easily. Unlike other shea butter products, Ultra Rich will provide your skin with rich hydration without the grease.

Creamier, Richer Hydration Formula for Dry Winter Skin

As someone who lives in a colder province, my skin is prone to getting irritated, itchy, and dry during the winter months. Living in colder temperatures for half the year means I have to find the best affordable drugstore skincare there is. And, I can confidently say that I’ve definitely found that with Olay Ultra Rich Moisturizer. The ingredients inside are all formulated to hydrate and is a must-have for dry and dull winter skin.

What’s inside?

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – helps maintain moisture
Amino Peptides – proven to improve skin’s
smoothness and firmness
Olay Shea Butter Blend – melts into skin on contact. You’ll notice skin that feels silky-smooth – a legit skin transformation for dry, stressed skin.

The shea butter and peptide-rich formula hydrates better than the $100, $200, even $400 rich moisturizer!

Instant results at an Affordable Drugstore Price

Of course, I love how the Olay Ultra Rich Moisturizer provides my skin with rich, long-lasting hydration with a non-greasy feel! But what I really love is how I’m able to achieve incredible results at an affordable price.

As an everyday consumer, I’m always looking to get the best skin care at an affordable drugstore price. That is why I always get excited whenever Olay drops a new product because I know, it’s going to be good!

You may say that I have a high appreciation for brands that can provide amazing results at an affordable drugstore price. So that everybody can enjoy smoother, brighter, and hydrated skin. Head on over to Walmart.ca and say goodbye to your dry winter skin this season.

Welcome, Mama!

Hey guys! I'm Heydy, a twenty something year old mama to Jayden, Abel & Isaiah; residing in Calgary, AB. I traded in my 9-5 for the chaos and cuddles of being a stay at home mom. I find peace in writing, growing my jungle of plants and living life to the fullest. With me you’ll always get the honest truth. My blog is a way for me to share my in-dept personal teen mom story in hopes of inspiring one of you readers or someone you may know! Thank you for dropping by and joining me on my journey! I'd love to hear from you.

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