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Dee Snider’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas Tale Rockin’ Good Time

December 10, 2015

Last night at the Winter Garden Theatre, Toronto rockers and Twisted Sister fans kicked off the holiday season by attending the Opening Night performance of Dee Snider’s Rock & Roll Christmas Tale, presented by Revonoy Productions and Starvox Entertainment.

Legendary rock star and the creator and narrator of the show Dee Snider, along with co-star and Grammy-Award winning singer Taylor Dayne, walked the red carpet before hitting the stage.

Dee Snider Rock and Roll Xmas — Dee Snider and Taylor Dayne on the red carpet at Opening Night of Dee Snider’s Rock & Roll Christmas Tale at Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto on December 9, 2015. Photo credit: George Pimentel Photography

Now showing daily in Toronto at the Winter Garden Theatre, Dee Snider’s Rock & Roll Christmas Tale tells the story of Däisy Cütter, an 80s heavy metal band looking to make it big.

This year, these four guys are ready to take the ultimate step and, in mythic rock tradition, sell their souls to the devil in exchange for success beyond their wildest metal dreams!

But every time they try to seal the infernal pact, their head-banging anthems turn into warm-hearted carols, set in. Soon these rockers are forced to realize their dreams of stardom are no match for the Christmas spirit.

The show also stars Peter Deiwick, who played a memorable Stacey Jaxx in Toronto’s Rock of Ages, Matt Campbell, Kevin Fox, Spencer Robson and Sean Kelly. Taylor Dayne’s voice is magical, and Deiwick rocked the stage as he always does.

The lead singer of Twisted Sister has created and stars in a memorable, funny and rockin’ new holiday musical, guaranteed to rock your whole family’s holiday and twist your Christmas.

To buy tickets, visit Rocknrollxmas.com or Ticketmaster. Dee Snider’s Rock & Roll Christmas Tale runs until January 3, 2016.

Christmas

Holiday Gifts Ideas at Upper Canada Mall

December 9, 2015

I love this time of year – decorating the house, shopping for gifts, and my favourite – putting together Holiday Gift Guides to help make gift giving easier for YOU!

I feel a little like Mrs. Claus, picking out the best of the best holiday gift ideas to share with my readers.

This year, I had a little help in putting together my annual Holiday Gift Guides. I’ve teamed up again with Upper Canada Mall to give you the best holiday gift ideas for him, her, kids and hostess. Check out their Gorgeous Gift Guide here.

Here are some of Mrs. Claus Perfect Picks at Upper Canada Mall:

Coach – Swagger 20 in metallic pebble leather

Town Shoes – Blundstone boots

Bath and Body Works – Warm Vanilla gift set

Hatley – Blue Dinos Tin Lunch Box & Hoo’s Hungry Lunch Box

Alex and Ani Rings – Various

#IamMrsClaus Holiday Handbag Giveaway

What’s more, Upper Canada Mall is running a #IamMrsClaus Holiday Handbag giveaway, with some coveted items that any Mrs. would love!

The handbag is valued at over $5,500, includes covetable items from Alex and Ani, Browns Shoes, M for Mendocino, Kiehl’s, Aldo, Sportchek and a very special, very sparkly diamond pave ring from Radiant Fine Jewellers!

To enter the #IamMrsClaus Holiday Handbag Contest, follow these steps:

Follow @UpperCanadaMall on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
Show your Mrs. Claus moment. Post a pic of how you’re working hard to make the holidays a success for friends and family, share via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Tag @UpperCanadaMall on on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, and use #MyMrsClaus and #IamMrsClaus

Enter to Win

One lucky amotherworld reader will win a $200 Gift Card to shop at Upper Canada Mall! To enter this giveaway, fill out the Rafflecopter below.

Good luck!

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giveaways

Have a Green Holiday Season with AspenClean

December 9, 2015

As you know, I’m not a big fan of cleaning. I may have mentioned before ~~like a broken record~~ that I’d rather spend my time more effectively rather than scrubbing floors. There’s always a new show to binge-watch on Netflix, after all. Plus, there’s a book that isn’t going to write itself.

But because I don’t think it’s healthy to breathe in those dust bunnies, I find ways to make cleaning more bearable. For me, this means kicking the kids outside to play while I blast some high-energy music, and getting my clean on.

I prefer to use natural household cleaning products. I tried AspenClean products and will not go back to anything else! AspenClean products are made with natural ingredients derived from plants and minerals and organic essential oils. The AspenClean Professional Edition Whole House Cleaning Kit also comes with matching microfibre cloths – so smart! There is one for cleaning the bathroom, one for the kitchen, one for glass, and one all-purpose cleaner – which I use for dusting.

I found these natural cleaning products to work very well, cleaning up dust easily with the microfibre clothes, and leaving a pleasant scent behind. I love that the bottles and matching cloths are colour coordinated, so I never have to second guess which cloth is for what household chore.

AspenClean features:
100% Vegan
Biodegradable plant-derived ingredients
ECOCERT Certified
Designed to be matched with our high tech microfiber cloths
Post-consumer material in all packaging
Reusing and Recycling
Social and environmental responsibility

Products are made without Petroleum Phosphates, colours, parabens, ethoxylates and sulphates (SLS/SLES), carcinogenic ingredients (not listed on IARC categories 1, 2A, 2B), animal ingredients, synthetic fragrances, and animal testing.

All AspenClean eco-friendly cleaning products are manufactured locally in Canada. AspenClean also provides a cleaning service – now wouldn’t that be great gift idea! You can buy online at AspenClean.com, or in store at natural food stores including Whole Foods.

Enter to Win

One lucky amotherworld reader will win an AspenClean Professional Edition Whole House Cleaning Kit which includes four bottles of 100% Natural Cleaners and four matching and colour-coded microfibre cloths. Use the Rafflecopter below to enter this giveaway. Good luck!

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Christmas

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Kids 2015

December 9, 2015

He and she are making a list and checking it twice! What will Santa bring your kids this year? What are the best gifts for kids 2015?

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for Kids 2015

Ninento Wii U + amiibo

If you’re looking to introduce your little ones to gaming, Nintendo’s Wii U is the best gaming system that will redefine your kids – and you! – will play video games.

Now with an innovative new Wii U GamePad controller, the Super Mario Maker Deluxe set will allow gamers to play a near-limitless number of intensely creative Super Mario™ levels from players around the world. Now, Mario is on display in Full 1080p HD splendor and thanks to the 32GB hard drive, you have tons of room to save games and download add-ons.

The Deluxe Bundle comes with a high-speed HDMI cable, AC adapter, the GamePad, a sensor bar, the cradle, a stand and a console… and a full game download of Super Mario Maker, an idea book and the 30th Anniversary Mario Modern Color Amiibo.

My kids have been asking for a Wii U for months! I think the Nintendo Wii U is the best gaming system for kids under 10.

$329.99 Available at Best Buy, Amazon.ca, Walmart, The Source.

Splatoon

Splatoon is a third-person shooter video centered around characters known as “Inklings”—beings that can transform between humanoid and squid forms, and hide or swim through coloured ink sprayed on surfaces using gun or brush-based weaponry. Wow! Splatoon features several gamemodes, including 4-on-4 online multiplayer and a single player campaign.

$69.99 Available on Best Buy, Amazon, EB Games, Toys ‘R Us, Walmart.

Splatoon Inkling amiibo three-pack

Claim your turf as the ink-spewing, squid-like characters called Inklings in Nintendo’s new third-person action shooter game for the Wii U console. The Splatoon Inkling amiibo three-pack includes Inkling Girl, Inkling Boy and Inkling Squid. Introducing amiibo: character figures designed to connect and interact with compatible games. By tapping the amiibo over your Wii U GamePad, you’ll open up new experiences within each corresponding game.

$44.99 Best Buy

Yoshi’s Woolly World + Yarn Yoshi amiibo – Wii U

On a knitted island filled with many Yarn Yoshis of varying patterns, the evil magikoopa Kamek turns nearly all the Yoshis into bundles of yarn for his master Baby Bowser, scattering them across different worlds. But two Yoshis somehow manage to avoid being transformed, and they set off to pursue Kamek and rescue their woolly friends.

Tap amiibo figures to the Wii U GamePad controller or New Nintendo 3DS XL system to interact with compatible games, no portal needed. Use amiibo in compatible games like Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, Mario Kart 8 and Kirby and the Rainbow Curse.

$79.95 Indigo

Delta Swivel Chair

For snuggly reading time with your loved one, the Lux Swivel Chair from Delta Children is a perfect place for reading, relaxing or bonding with your baby or toddler. Its streamlined design gives will add a modern edge to your child’s room. Contoured for maximum comfort, the Lux swivel chair from Delta Children moves with your body and features a spring loaded mechanism that ensures it always returns to the center.

$249.99 Delta Children Available at Amazon.

Snackin’ Sara Doll

Little girls can have fun taking care of “real babies” with this Snackin’ Sara doll. Instead of pretending to feed her little doll, your little one can make tasty snacks and feed them to her. She can use reusable doll food and shaping tools to make different kinds of snacks to feed her Snackin’ Sara doll. The doll tells her when she’s hungry, sleepy, or full with phrases in English and Spanish, like “Is it snack time?”

Baby Alive comes with doll, outfit, 2 diapers, two 1-ounce containers of reusable doll food, 3 shaping tools, 1 roller, plate, pretend juice box, and instructions.

$49.99 Available at Hasbro, Toys ‘R Us, Walmart.

Mega Bloks Friendly Farm

It’ll be a big day of fun in the country for little farm hands thanks to the MEGA BLOKS Friendly Farm. Its eight panel-style blocks help children build taller and faster. Re-arranging the panels lets them build the farm in different ways. Imaginative play for children continues with detailed blocks that bring the farm scene to life. Including a barn, stables, a chicken coop and characters, little hands can open up the world of Farmer Block Buddy™! Suitable for kids aged 1 to 5 years.

$39.99 Available at Toys ‘R Us, Walmart, Amazon.

Little Pets Turtles and Lil’ Mouse

Toys ‘R’ Us Top 15 Toy is back with Little Live Pets Turtles. These turtles fit in the palm of your hand and move just as a turtle would on land and once they reach the water they begin swimming. Each turtle is also unique with different shell designs to help show off their cool personalities.

The Lil’ Mouse may be small but loves to explore over obstacles, tracks and the floor. Either hold them in your hand or give their back a tickle and see them scoot across the room. Both are suitable for ages 5 and up.

Little Pets are available across Canada at major retailers like Toys ‘R’ Us, TV Showcase, Loblaws and London Drugs.

Blue Dinos Tin Lunch Box & Hoo’s Hungry Lunch Box

Hatley, Upper Canada Mall

BEADOS Gems and Shopkins

Our kids’ favourite no-mess craft just got better. You can now create jewels and pendants with Beados Gems and a favourite Shopkins character. Just make, spray and display!

Kids can use templates to create their own Beados world with beads that stick together with just a spray of water and no mess. Once dry, the beads are fused together, and kids can use the enclosed stands, connectable play pads and scene cards to display and play. All the Beados Packs connect together to create one Beados world!

Beados Gems are available at Toys ‘R’ Us, Sears, Walmart and London Drugs. Beados Shopkins are available exclusively at Walmart.

Frozen Upholstered Chair

A cool chair fit for a (snow) queen, this Frozen Upholstered Chair from Delta Children will cast a stylish spell on your girl’s room. Featuring colorful graphics of Anna and Elsa, this comfy chair boasts a sturdy hardwood frame and plush seat, making it the perfect place for any Frozen fan.

$47.99 Target

Inside Out on DVD/Blu Ray

Disney’s Inside Out is now on DVD/Blu Ray – get it for Christmas for your loved one. Riley (Kaitlyn Dias) is a happy, hockey-loving 11-year-old Midwestern girl, but her world turns upside-down when she and her parents move to San Francisco. Riley’s emotions — led by Joy (Amy Poehler) — try to guide her through this difficult, life-changing event. However, the stress of the move brings Sadness (Phyllis Smith) to the forefront. When Joy and Sadness are inadvertently swept into the far reaches of Riley’s mind, the only emotions left in Headquarters are Anger, Fear and Disgust. Read my review here.

Star Wars PJ Cuddle Pal

Cuddle up with your favorite character! The Star Wars PJ Cuddle Pal is perfect for your Star Wars fan to snuggle with in bed, or on the couch. Star Wars PJ Cuddle Pal is perfect sleepovers, relaxing, reading, and playing. It has a storage pocket too.

$19.94 Walmart

Disney Frozen – Olaf-A-Lot

Prepare to “Olaf-A-Lot” with Arendelle’s funniest snowman! When you push his nose, his eyes cross and Olaf will start to tell you a joke, push his nose in again to hear the hysterical punch line . For even more fun, remove his head and flip it upside down and place his head back on his body to hear even more hilarious sounds and phrases from your favorite movie moments.

$14.98 Toys ‘R Us

Lego Awesome Ideas

LEGO® Awesome Ideas is an all-new ideas book that unlocks the secrets of LEGO building and shows fans how to create a world with their imagination. Beautifully clear photography and informative text demonstrates how entire models are built up while also providing step-by-step visual breakdowns and offering alternative ways to build models.

$25 Sale Indigo Books

Dazzl’n Dress

Custom quality fabric that is comfy for playing, pretending and even napping Pre-shrunk to avoid surprises and ensure a perfect fit, and no itchy necks. Mix and match for endless outfit combinations Gathered waistband that will neither twist nor dig. Made for whirling and twirling without sacrificing play perfect moments.

$56 Peekaboo Beans

WowWee Miposaur Robotic Dinosaur

The perfect gift for young gadget enthusiasts, the Miposaur robot from WowWee offers fun and intuitive interaction. Use hand gestures or the trackball to train, tame, play and even battle old friends.

$109.99 Best Buy

Visit our friends over at Upper Canada Mall for more gift ideas!

Christmas

Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Gifts For Him

December 8, 2015

What to get your special man this holiday season? Here are some of holiday gift ideas for him this holiday season 2015.

Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Gifts For Him

Boss The Scent

The new scent from Boss, The Scent is a seductive fragrance that conveys pure magnetic masculinity. With top notes of spicy ginger, heart notes of Maninka fruit and Base notes of burnished leather, Boss The Scent will be sure to please your man.

$78 50 ml $100 100ml Hudson’s Bay

Marshall Major Headphones

Maximize your music experience with these premium over-ear headphones from Marshall! These babies are crafted from soft vinyl and extra comfy ear cushion for a perfect wear. Compatible with any 3.5/6.3 mm music player.

$120 Urban Outfitters

Star Wars the Complete Saga

Experience the spectacular adventure of “Star Wars: The Complete Saga” in a way only Blu-ray(TM) can deliver. This incredible collection unites all six movies in stunning high definition with the purest digital sound in the galaxy. With more than 40 hours of thrilling special features including three bonus discs, you can journey deep into the “Star Wars” universe. Feel the Force of “Star Wars: The Complete Saga” on Blu-ray!

$114.96 Walmart

Blundstone Boots

These popular, best-selling boots are simple and can be worn with everything – jeans, skirts, pants and shorts. There have been a few attempts at knock-offs but nothing steps up like the original Blundstone boot.

Available at Town Shoes, Upper Canada Mall

Manhattan Moonshine

Manhattan Moonshine is a super-premium, Prohibition style, Northern Moonshine that has been crafted to be the world’s first luxury Un-Aged Whiskey. By using a unique blend of the finest New York grains, this complex Whiskey that does not need any aging to deliver its exceptional flavour. Combining innovative, modern production methods with sophisticated, vintage packaging inspired by the Prohibition era’s art deco style and exquisite parties, Manhattan Moonshine is a liquid embodiment of a bygone era of American elegance.

Where to buy

Leather Gloves

Winter and style go hand in hand with Gil, a pair of gloves made of genuine leather and memory fabric. An adjustable leather strap allows you to fit Gil tightly around your wrists.

$75 Rudsak

Crosley Ranchero Radio

During the 1950’s America was known for good music and style. The Crosley Ranchero commemorates the 1950’s style while incorporating the latest technology. The wood style radio is equipped with AM/FM radio as well as an auxillary-in and headphone jack. Bring home a piece of the 50’s and you will be rockin’ and stylin’ just like the good ol’ days.

$99.99 Electronics for Less

TP-Link PB50 Power Bank

The TP-LINK PB50 lithium polymer 10000mAh power bank is an essential accessory that keeps devices charged. The charger has dual USB ports to allow for multiple devices to be charged simultaneously to help ensure that you are always connected no matter where you are.

$49.99 Best Buy

UFC A Visual History

Follow the rich history of UFC from its inception as a small, fledgling organization all the way to its present day status as a sports world juggernaut! With insider commentary and stunning visuals, experience UFC like never before! Through a comprehensive year-by-year review, get a closer look at the people, events and decisions which helped make UFC the powerhouse it is today. By DK Books

$35.97 Indigo Books

Timex Classic Watch

Timex originals honor more than 150 years of quality timepieces by drawing inspiration from iconic styles in our archives. Comes in a gunmetal IP case finish, natural dial with black printing and brown nubuck leather strap.

$63.75 Sale, Hudson’s Bay

Philips Grooming Kit

The perfect gift to give to the man in your life, the Philips 8-piece grooming kit is essential to every man’s grooming armour. It offers a full metal trimmer and adjustable combs with over 35 length settings to achieve any desired look.

$39.99 Best Buy

Leather Bracelet

This handmade, made-to-order leather bracelet features a secret message in spiraled antique silver. Measures 8”

$48.57 Etsy

Franklin Dartboard Set

Indulge in friendly competition this Bristol 18-inch dartboard from Franklin Sports. With its clean wood finish and laminated wood cabinet, it makes a great addition to your games room, den, basement or man cave. The dartboard comes with 6 steel-tipped darts and a chalk chart board on the cabinet for keeping track of scores.

$129.99 Best Buy

Visit our friends over at Upper Canada Mall for more gift ideas!

Christmas

Holiday Gift Guide: Best Gift Ideas at Best Buy

December 8, 2015

These days, our lives are managed and entertained with technology. Don’t you find that there are so many home entertainment and technology items you could use, but don’t necessarily buy for yourself? These days our lives are made easier thanks to technology, for helping to manage our schedules to providing endless sources of entertainment.

Best Buy has the best gift ideas handpicked by the Best Buy Blue Shirt elves. Here are some of my favourites:

Star Wars Darth Vader Toaster

The perfect gift for the Star Wars fanatic in your life, the Darth Vader 2- slice toaster toasts bread with the Star Wars logo. Star Wars fans are sure to enjoy the dark side of bread with the variable toast shade selector and removable crumb tray to help with quick cleanup. $59.99

Samsung Gear S2 Classic Smartwatch

The perfect gift for your tech-savvy friend has arrived! The Samsung Gear S2 is a stylish smartwatch that tracks activity to provide health and fitness insights and syncs with your smartphone to keep you connected. The WiFi and Bluetooth enabled timepiece sports a circular 1.2″ touchscreen, protected by Gorilla Glass. Our Blue Shirt Elves have the perfect smartwatch suitable to all style preferences, also check out the Motorola Moto 360 Smartwatch and the Motorola Moto 360 Women’s Smartwatch. $429.99

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Camera

Add some vintage photography to your holiday season with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 instant camera. Equipped with auto focus, auto flash, a brightness adjustment dial and a Fujinon lens, this camera takes cool, vibrant pictures fun for the entire family. Our Best Buy Blue Elves will help you find the perfect colour, check out the Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 in Black, Pink, Blue, Purple and Raspberry. $99.99

Vitamix Professional Stand Blender

For all your holiday entertaining needs, the Vitamix blender blends everything from soups to smoothies. The high-performance blender is equipped with variable speed controls and laser-cut stainless steel blades built to chop, cream, blend, heat, grind and puree the toughest ingredients. For higher blender speed options, check out the Vitamix S50 12-Speed Personal Stand Blender or the Vitamix 13-Speed Stand Blender. Also check out the Breville Hemisphere Stand Blender in Black or Red, which delivers efficient blending. $549

GoPro HERO4 Waterproof HD Sports & Helmet Camera

Document all the exciting experiences over the holidays with the GoPro HERO4 Silver, the first ever GoPro camera with built-in touch display. The HERO4 delivers high-quality video, including 4K15 and 1080p60 resolution video, and 12MP photos at a staggering 30 fps. $529.99

Sharp 43″ LED Smart Roku TV

Catch all your favourite holiday movies and more on the Sharp 43″ Roku TV. Its integrated Roku streaming technology gives you over 1,400 streaming channels for movies, TV, music and news, giving you plenty entertainment to keep you busy over the holiday break! The Smart TV delivers HD picture and digital sound and allows you to easily stream content from the web from all your compatible devices with WiFi connectivity. $469.99

Corningware French White Round & Oval Set

Entertain and serve with style this holiday season with this 12-piece round and oval cookware set from Corningware. Also a perfect gift to give to a friend or loved one, the Corningware set is made from durable, chip-resistant and non-porous stoneware. The dishes are safe for use in the oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher. $69.99

Jawbone UP2 Fitness Tracker

Stylish and functional, the Jawbone UP2 Fitness Tracker has a sleek, eye-catching design that seamlessly coordinates with any outfit. The Blue Shirt Elves are betting that you’ll forget it’s more than a fashion accessory! The UP2 delivers in-depth analysis of your eating, activity, and sleep patterns and is unobtrusive while sleeping. $139.99

For more best gift ideas handpicked by the Best Buy Blue Shirt elves, visit BestBuy.ca.

Enter to Win

One lucky amotherworld reader will win a $200 Best Buy gift card! Open to Canadian readers only. Enter here to win!

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Entertainment

Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Disney Parks

December 8, 2015

Calling all Star Wars fans!

The Force awakens with new and reimagined Star Wars experiences at Disney Parks in California and Florida, just in time for the December 18th release of the new movie, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Celebrating all things Star Wars, the exciting experiences at Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will entertain fans of the movie saga and Star Wars themed attractions.

How will you experience Star Wars at Disney Parks? Here are some of the newest attractions:

Star Wars Launch Bay

Star Wars Launch Bay is the central location within the parks for fans to celebrate all things Star Wars. In this multi-sensory space, guests will interact with iconic Star Wars characters, tour galleries featuring treasured memorabilia and detailed replicas of Star Wars props, play the latest Star Wars interactive video games and have access to special Star Wars merchandise.

Special Character Encounters

After entering a themed atrium complete with authentic replicas of Star Wars props, guests journey to the dark side and come face to face with Darth Vader in a 360-degree immersive area themed around the Star Destroyer, or they may choose the light side by stepping into a makeshift Rebel base to meet the most famous co-pilot in the galaxy, Chewbacca.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

Based on the Star Wars movies, Star Tours takes guests to multiple Star Wars destinations where they interact with characters from throughout the saga. With an eye-popping digital presentation leveraging Dolby 3D to deliver a vivid and realistic experience, a dramatic musical score and motion simulator-based technology, guests are immersed in the Star Wars galaxy like never before on a theme park attraction.

Hyperspace Mountain at Disneyland Resort

The classic Space Mountain attraction is re-imagined as Hyperspace Mountain, thrusting guests into the darkness for an action-packed battle between Rebel X-wings and Imperial TIE fighters.

“Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” at Walt Disney World Resort

At Hollywood Studios in Florida beginning nightly Dec. 18, guests will be treated to a spectacular finish to their park visit with a dazzling Star Wars-themed fireworks show set to memorable Star Wars music from throughout the saga.

Guests at Disney Parks can also enjoy the Launch Bay Theater, The Cantina, Star Wars Game Center, Themed Galleries and much more.

The new experiences further expand the Star Wars presence ahead of the new Star Wars-themed lands coming to the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Groundbreaking in California and Florida is expected in 2016.

The Force Awakens – The Toronto Exhibit

Meanwhile, in Toronto, The Force Awakens – The Toronto Exhibit opens December 5th for a limited 16-day run.

Located on the Bell Media campus at 277 Queen Street West and open daily from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., the pop-up exhibit will give fans a small tease about the new film with five life-size replicas of Rey, Kylo Ren, Captain Phasma, BB-8 and a Stormtrooper. The figures were created by Prop Shop, a London, UK-based company that created the official props used in the production of the film. The mini exhibit in Toronto is the only place in Canada where fans will be able to see the figures.

Other features in the pop-up exhibit include a BB-8 photo op and two limited edition exclusive t-shirts that will be available for purchase. Special guests, themed days, activities and giveaways will be revealed via social media over the duration of the exhibit and fans.

Follow Walt Disney Studios Canada on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter using the hashtag #TheForceAwakensTO for the latest news and details.

Christmas

Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Gifts for Her

December 7, 2015

What to buy for the special woman in your life? Here are some of holiday gift ideas for her this holiday season 2015.

Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Gifts for Her

Coach Swagger Handbag

Finished by hand in refined metallic leather with a soft glow and a wonderfully pebbled texture, this mini carryall – Swagger 20 in metallic pebble leather gets its Swagger from statement belting and bold double-turnlock hardware. The long strap snaps on with ease for hands-free wear.

Coach, Upper Canada Mall

Kiehl’s Grab & Go Classic

Keep skin hydrated and healthy-looking with these essentials which include Creme de Corps Body Moisturizer (125 ml), – Ultra Facial Cleanser (30 ml), – Ultra Facial Cream Deluxe (7 ml) and Ultimate Strength Hand Salve (75 ml)

$39 Kiehl’s

Starfish Ring by Studio 12

This starfish ring is handmade using sterling silver, fine silver and clay. Made by Studio 12 in Hatteras, North Carolina, every piece is one of a kind. The ring is adjustable to fit your finger size. Ships worldwide.

$57.49 Etsy

ALWAYS RED by Elizabeth Arden

Made for the leader of the in crowd, Elizabeth Arden ALWAYS RED is inspired by the strikingly confident woman who radiates as she lights up the town. A luxurious floriental, Elizabeth Arden ALWAYS RED opens with an irresistible blend of vibrant blood orange, luscious red plum and passion fruit. As the composition evolves, a textured heart of jasmine sambac, pink freesia and velvet rose petals evoke intense femininity and passion. The fragrance dries down to a rich, ambery base. Deep and inviting accents of praline, mahogany woods and red amber symbolize the sensuality and tantalizing confidence synonymous with the color red and the Elizabeth Arden ALWAYS RED woman. Available at department stores and drug marts.

The ALWAYS RED fragrance gift set includes ALWAYS RED Eau de Toilette Spray, 50ml and Love Drops Body Cream, 100ml. $63 Hudson’s Bay.

CALVIN KLEIN Sheer Lace Chemise

Slip on this sensuously sheer lace chemise for a truly irresistible look. Has adjustable straps, sheer lace bodice and woven botton.

Sale $54 Hudson’s Bay

Palencia Scarf

You will love the bright pops of color in this knit scarf. Made in Italy, the Palencia Scarf is thick and warm with the perfect length of fringe on the end.

$49 Aventura Clothing

Come Away with Me by Karma Brown

Globe and Mail Bestseller Karma Brown’s debut novel is a must-buy for your bookworm. An unexpected journey leads one woman to discover that life after loss is possible, if only you can find the courage to let go…

Available at various book stores.

Leather Journal

This hand-printed “not all who wander are lost” can be personalized for you and made to order.

$34.27 Etsy

Slipper Moccasins

The SoftMoc CUTE FAUX ME moccasin is made from genuine suede and a faux rabbit fur collar, adding comfort and warmth.

$59.99 SoftMoc

Faux Fur Trapper Hat

Smart and stylish, this warm Fur Trapper Hat will add the perfect touch of Canadiana to your Sunday best. Ultra-soft and fashioned with earflaps, a cozy liner and adorable pompom ties, it will ensure you keep toasty this holiday season.

$39.50 Indigo

Teak Bathtub Tray Caddy

Designed with pampering in mind, this Teak Bathtub Tray Caddy features a book prop, wine glass holder and soap dish.

$39.99 Bed Bath and Beyond

Kate Spade Jewelry Box

If she’s got too much jewelry than she can keep track of, this Kate Spade New York Garden Drive Square jewelry box will do just the trick.

A brightly colored lacquer box that is perfect for keepsakes, jewelry, or anything that needs chic but safe keeping. Featuring the signature kate spade new york bow closure.

$40 Hudson’s Bay

Faux Fur Chevron Throw

Inspired by couture details, this statement faux fur throw is cut and woven to create a unique chevron pattern. It’s a luxe way to lounge.

$59 West Elm

Visit our friends over at Upper Canada Mall for more gift ideas!

Health

Nobody Takes Care of You Like Mom

December 7, 2015

There is nothing like mom’s Greek chicken soup to make you feel warm, safe and secure. I can close my eyes and smell the delicious aroma of chicken broth, sweet carrots and onions.

I clearly remember how my mom would press her lips to my forehead to see if I was running a fever. Her lips were always a good predictor, before bringing out the thermometer for accuracy. If I had a cold, she would squeeze fresh orange juice for me.

Even today, my mom will still tell me what to do to make me feel better.

If I’m suffering a migraine:

“Boil water and place your head over it with a towel, and breathe in the steam!”

If I had a stomach ache:

“Drink some ginger ale, it’ll help your tummy.”

If I had abdominal cramps:

“Lay down and place a hot water bottle on your belly.”

Mom’s advice stuck with me; I do the same now with my own children. Now I take care of my kids when they’re sick #LikeMomDoes.

“Don’t go outside like that!” I’ll shout at my kids. “You need a heavier jacket! I don’t want you to catch a cold!”

As soon my kids step in from outdoors, “Wash your hands! With soap! For 20 seconds!”

Lo and behold, when my kids don’t listen, the sniffles begin the very next day. Mom knew what she was talking about. While I didn’t enjoy the constant nagging when I was a child, I appreciate it now that I’m a mom too.

Mom just knows what to do to take care of you, and only your own mom has that special touch to make you feel better. Thank you, mom, for taking care of me all those years. Thank you, for making me chicken soup at the first sign of a cold, nagging me to wear a hat and dress warm, and for the warm snuggles when I needed them.

Thank you, Mom, for caring and loving me the way you did, and still do.

Tylenol knows that nobody cares for you #LikeMomDoes! What did your mom do for you to feel extra cared for while you were sick? Check this heartwarming video and share your stories of gratitude for your mom by visiting www.likemomdoes.ca and thank your mom and all the mother out there for everything that they do!

For effective care of your cold, cough & flu symptoms, you want symptom relief you can trust so that you can GET BACK TO NORMAL, WHATEVER YOUR NORMAL IS®

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the makers of TYLENOL®, but the opinions expressed are my own.

lifestyle

Send Money to Loved Ones With No Fees

December 7, 2015

Today the world seems smaller because of technology, making it easier to connect with loved ones. I have family in the Unites States and in Greece so it’s wonderful that I can stay connected with them as if they are right next door. It would be amazing to be able to send money to them for birthday or holiday gifts, rather than mailing gifts with high shipping costs and customs fees.

It’s possible with CIBC Global Money Transfer, which allows you to send money to loved ones with no fees, anytime and anywhere in the world, usually within one business day.

You can send money to loved ones in 35+ countries worldwide, including India, the Philippines, and the Eurozone countries, and with very competitive foreign exchange rates (please check the country first to ensure availability). CIBC customers receive accurate, real-time pricing every time they send money as the exchange rates are based on live exchange rates.

CIBC Global Money Transfers are free of fees to CIBC customers, and you don’t have to worry about secure delivery. All this can be done conveniently online or through your CIBC branch. As long as the recipient’s bank name and account number are correct, the funds will be deposited directly into his or her account safely and securely.

What’s more, CIBC doesn’t charge the recipient fees for receiving money – but they should check to make sure their own financial institution will not levy more fees or service charges. A Global Money Transfer counts towards allowable transaction limit; bank account transaction fees may apply.

Want to learn more?

Join us to discuss Global money transfers Wednesday Dec 9th at 9:30PM ET. RSVP here to be eligible to win one of the $2000 in prizes and follow @CammiPham and @RossanaWyatt for questions and prizing.

Twitter Party

Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Time: 9:30pm EST

Who: @CammiPham and @RossanaWyatt

RSVP: http://chatrsvp.com/cibcnofeegmt

Prizing is only open to Canadians, but all are welcome to attend!

See you there!

Disclosure: This post is brought to you by CIBC Global Money Transfer™. All thoughts, opinions are my own.