I’m pretty pumped about the upcoming Pan Am Games and would like to share my enthusiasm with a contest. Yes….a contest where you could win $200 worth of atoma products!

atoma, is actually the Official Pharmacy to the Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games. In addition to the partnership, atoma will be supporting ALL the athletes taking part in the Games. Through its four banners (Guardian, I.D.A., The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy and PROXIM), the brand will provide pharmacist services, prescription medications, first aid supplies and atoma over-the-counter medications to all athletes participating in the Games.

Here’s a bit more about atoma products:

atoma offers quality products with the same active ingredients as national brands, at everyday low prices*.

atoma products can be found in two categories:

Health and Wellness (such as first aid, foot care, medical care, skin care, sun care and more)

Hygiene (such as baby accessories, soap and bath products, hair care, shaving and grooming and more)

Clearly at this time of year I seem to go through more sunscreen and more pharmaceutical products in general!! Wouldn’t you agree?

When atoma was created, their goal was to bring you high-quality products with the same active ingredients as national brands, but at lower prices. They guarantee your satisfaction or your money back.

There’s something to be said about a pharmacy that is indeed a pharmacy. For example these stores don’t sell eggs, milk or bread.

OK back to the contest:

All you have to do to win this $200 gift card is leave a comment below and answer the following question:

Which level of SPF  protection do you choose, when purchasing sunscreen?

(SPF 30, SPF 60 etc)

This contest is open to all Canadians and will end on July 18th, 2015 at midnight.

My mom is so attached to her pharmacist that she was driving 20 minutes out of her way to go there even though there was a pharmacy 2 blocks from her condo. #truestory.

For more information: www.teamatoma.ca

Twitter: @McKesson_ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mckessonCA

Disclosure: I’m an ambassador for McKesson Canada, however all opinions are my own.

 

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Canada Day is soon approaching so here’s a few suggestions how to celebrate!

1. HOTEL TONIGHT
Cue the fireworks! This Canada Day, celebrate the nationwide party and then flop into bed, courtesy of Hotel Tonight. In honour of Canada’s 148th year, Hotel Tonight is offering hotel room deals at top hotels from $48 – $148 on June 30 and July 1. I just secured my room and I’m pumped. So download this app. Stat.

2. WHITTAMORE’S FARM

Nothing like going strawberry picking. Just make sure you don’t wear white. Trust me.

3. ATTEND A BASEBALL GAME

For baseball fans, the Toronto Blue Jays will be playing the Boston Red Sox at 1 p.m. July 1.

4. PLAY TOURIST.

Have you ever done this? Recently I went up the CN Tower…just for fun. I honestly couldn’t remember the last time I went up the CN Tower.  PS. You can buy a Toronto CityPass that will allow you to access 5 Toronto attractions. Click here for more information.

5. HEAD OUT OF TOWN.

A few weeks ago, I went to Elora for the day. It’s such a charming small town and worth checking out.  Next time, I hope to stay over night and really explore this city!!

 6. HOST A BBQ:

T’is the the perfect opportunity to celebrate Canada Day with a BBQ. Head to Walmart for great value on  OurFinest hamburgers, chips and drinks (plus many other products).  Add a salad or two. plus dessert and bingo you have you the perfect BBQ. For a full list of OurFinest products, please click here.

Wishing everyone a Happy Canada Day!!

Disclosure: Parts of this blog post were compensated or complimentary, however all opinions are my own.

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It’s not every day that I drive to Mississauga to go check out a restaurant but I thought than an Indian Buffet with 150 delicious items, deserves a visit!!

Tandoori Flame is well recognized as North America’s Largest Indian Buffet & Restaurant with over 14,000 sq.ft. and with a capacity for more than 500 guests! As a result, there’s a lot of wedding parties, and celebrations held at Tandoori Flame. Not to mention that they have 11 food stations which means there is truly something for everyone!!

I ate, and ate, and ate and before you knew it…I was stuffed. I’m pretty sure I went up to the buffet three times, if not 4..but who’s counting. LOL

The food was fresh and flavourful. When I visit a buffet, I like to know that the food hasn’t been sitting out for hours and there’s no doubt that the food at Tandoori Flame is FRESH.

I’m also impressed that they “get” social media.

Tandoori Flame has two locations and I really believe that this concept will continue to expand!

For more information:

Website: www.tandooriflame.com

Twitter; @TandooriFlame

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tandooriflame

Disclosure: My meal was complimentary, however all opinions are my own.

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The Stop’s Night Market is a feast for the eyes, belly and heart. The monies raised from this two day event (which was held last week), goes toward community-building programs such as: food banks, drop-in meals, community cooking and gardening, prenatal nutrition and more!

The Stop’s Night Market gets a lot of love as it’s sold out every year and for a good reason

The event is SO well organized plus there’s something special about an event that is held outdoors. Especially when the weather is ideal like it was this year.

The event features different vendors on both nights and I totally get why people would buy tickets for BOTH nights. Oh ya – your ticket includes all the booze and all the food you can eat. This map really helped me navigate my way thru all the different vendors.

Highlights of my evening included the Halibut Cakes from Sea Witch:

Plus I was digging the Smoked & Roasted Beets with Goat Cheese from FarmHouse Tavern.  Trust me, every vendor served something interesting.

Congratulations to all the vendors, the volunteers and the team at The Stop Community Centre for another incredible event. I hope you consider buying a ticket next year. You won’t be disappointed!

Disclosure: I was provided with a media ticket to attend the attend, however all opinions are my own.

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I recently went to Great Wolf Lodge with my mom and my daughter.  Instead of a “Girls Night Out” it was a “Girls Night Getaway”. ..which included spa treatments, CASUAL CLOTHING and tasty food.

Before we went away, I gave my mom strict instructions not to bring anything fancy as Great Wolf Lodge is all about comfort and convenience. This is the perfect get away where you don’t have to worry about bringing “the right” clothing (some people even go to breakfast in pyjamas).

I also loved the convenience of getting a wrist band.  It acted as my room key.  How convenient is that?    #LOVEIT.

We started off the getaway with a spa treatment. This was certainly a treat!

Take a peek at this little girl who allowed me to take a photo of her getting a spa pedicure!

Then we SLID into summer and took advantage of the water park, which is a whopping 100,000 square feet. Note: your admission ticket to the water park is included in your hotel fee. #morevalue

As for food: I can spot a fresh buffet a mile away and this buffet was indeed fresh and super tasty. Our personable (and funny) waiter Paul H. ensured that we also had a great laugh or two.

Great Wolf Lodge goes out of their way to accommodate guests with allergies or specific food requirements. When my daughter mentioned that she preferred a salad without cheese, they were quick to say “not a problem, we can make you one”.

Did I mention that I ordered a local beer to go along with my meal? Not only could I drink it with my meal but I was able to walk around with it too. #funfact

Great Wolf Lodge raises the bar to provide guests with a safe and exceptional vacation with plenty of value. As a mom (and a former life guard), I thought these t-shirts sent out a great message that Great Wolf Lodge takes safety seriously!

In the event that you are seeking a summer get away, Mom Who Runs would like to offer you a discount at Great Wolf Lodge of 20% off the best available rate. Please use this code when booking: MWRFUN

• Offer valid for stay dates between June 14, 2015 to July 24, 2015
• Booking cut-off date to make reservations is June 28, 2015
• Blackout dates may be added as availability decreases.

I have no doubt that you will have an exceptional vacation!!

For more information:

Website: www.greatwolflodge.com

Address: 3950 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7M8
Phone: (905) 354-4888

Twitter: @GreatWolfLodge

Instagram: @GreatWolfLodge

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GreatWolfLodge

Disclosure: My trip to Great Wolf Lodge was complimentary however all opinions are my own.

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I’ve interviewed an NHL Hockey Player before, but never interviewed a Chef till today!!

I put together a few questions for CHEF IVAN FLOWERS  (also known as the “Biker Chef) who brings 25 years of fine cuisine experience as Executive Chef at Top of The Market in San Diego.

Chef Ivan Flowers is in Toronto, as he will be joining forces with Paul Boehmer, owner of Boehmer Restaurant to collaborate on a Mediterranean style meat extravaganza for a U-Feast event that is being held tonight (June 18) at Boehmer (93 Ossington).

Both Paul and Ivan are biker enthusiasts and will be joined by comedian and radio host Mike Bullard (also a biker enthusiast) as the MC for the evening. Sounds like a fun evening, non?

Here’s a synopsis of my interview:

Question: How many bikes do you own?

Chef Flowers: Only one.

Question: What type of bike do you own?

Chef Flowers: A Harley!

Question: Do you have a favorite cookbook?

Chef Flowers: No I don’t use any cookbooks.

Question: Do you miss NY?

Chef Flowers: I do not miss NY. It was nice when it was diverse but it’s not like that anymore.

Question: Favorite food to eat after a day riding your motorcycle?

Chef Flowers: A sandwich!!

Question: What inspires you to cook?

Chef Flowers: I love to feed people!

Question: Favorite place to travel?

Chef Flowers: Greece (especially the island of Paros)

Question: Poutine..yay or nay?

Chef Flowers: YAY.

Question: When was the last time you were in Toronto?

Chef Flowers: Back in the 1980’s

As you can see, I like to keep my interviews short and sweet.!!

Please keep in mind that U-Feast brings together food lovers who are looking for an alternative to traditional restaurant dining with top chefs, restaurants and wineries.

They offer an experience for those people who are searching for more than just good food – but are looking for “experiential” social dining!

NOTE: Tickets are still available for tonights collaborative dinner!!

For more information:

Website: www.U-Feast.com

Twitter: @U-Feast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ufeast

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I’m pretty excited about the 2015 Pan Am Games for several reasons.

a) Believe or not, I’m a torch bearer. I think I saw a link to apply on twitter or facebook and applied on a whim. Sure enough – I was selected!! You can find me on July 7th at noon somewhere between 1470 Gerrard St East and 270 Coxwell. It’s a short run (250 meter) but it sure will be a memorable one!!

b) I will also be attending the opening ceremonies of the PanAm Games as a guest of McKesson Canada, through their atoma brands. They are one of the sponsors of the 2015 Pan Am/ParaPan Games and I’ve been fortunate enough to be selected as one of their Blogger Ambassadors. (pinch me, please).

For over 100 years, McKesson Canada has been the logistics and distribution leader in the Canadian healthcare sector. Their atoma brand is the private label brand of the IDA, Guardian, MSC and PROXIM retail pharmacies in Canada.

Therefore over the next few weeks, you will be noticing a few blog posts that will be associated with the 2015 Pan Am Games. Look out for a contest with atoma products, an interview with Mark Oldershaw (who is a Canadian Sprint Canoeist) and more!

 Mark is one of the five athletes that McKesson Canada is supporting on their journey to the Games. (The others include Jennifer Abel, Ryan Cochrane, Ellie Black and David Willsie).

I hope you are as excited as me about the 2015 PanAm Games!

In the meantime, you can start to follow me on twitter using (@momwhoruns) and look out for this hashtag too….#atomaPanAm K? Also, please take a peek at this fantastic contest that atoma is running. Click here!! This is one contest that you don’t want to miss!!

Disclosure: I have been compensated to participate as an ambassador however all opinions are my own.

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I discovered a few new things last week, which I would like to share with you.

1. JURASSIC WORLD: This is the perfect summer movie. I’m not saying its going to win any Academy Awards but it will certainly entertain you. After the movie, make sure you head to Dairy Queen to grab a Jurassic Smash Blizzard.  (Peanut Butter Cookies, chocolate chip cookie dough, peanut butter, and choco chunks blended with creamy vanilla soft serve)

2. HONDA INDY TORONTO: I had never been to a racing event of any nature before, but now I know why people love attending this event. All I can say is “see you next year at the races” (with ear plugs). LOL

3. BEAN AND BAKER MALT SHOP: (327 Harbord St.) This adorable shop just opened a few weeks ago and is Toronto’s only fountain soda malt shop! I had a spectacular cherry pie but I know I will be returning for a float one day soon and/or one of their milkshakes.

4. SAMSUNG SUHDTV just launched a new TV with 60 x more colour. Seriously, this TV is brilliant (sorry for the pun) and delivers “colour” like never before. PS this photo was taken with my new Samsung S6 #justsayin’

5. Lastly, I discovered that I really like “plating” food!

Do you have any “discoveries” you would like to share? Please do!

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I had some company over on Friday night for dinner and I have to admit – the meal was divine. I served one main course and three salads plus dessert. Right now, I feel like I need to share one particular salad recipe with you STAT.

This Thai Crunch Brussels Sprout recipe was worth all the chopping and all the ingredients. TRUST ME. LOL

Thai Crunch Brussel Sprout Salad (taken from a fantastic blog that I subscribe to..Sweet Eats)

Happy Cooking.

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Today, Aroma Espresso Bar introduced a nutritious AND delicious new salad made with Freekeh!

I had never heard of this  ancient Middle Eastern grain before but rumour has it that its the next trendy superfood. This salad will now be available to health-conscious consumers as new salad at aroma espresso bar.

I had the chance to try it last week and I loved it. Then again, I love all the salads at Aroma! This particular salad agreed with me, due to the lemony dressing and the dollop of labneh cheese with za’atar sprinkled on top. Other ingredients in this salad include: black quinoa, and brown rice blended with organic baby kale, tomato, cucumber, carrot, pickle, red onion, and parsley!

“The 28 aroma espresso bar locations across Toronto and GTA stores are the first among the global chain’s 165 locations to carry the signature salad, which could be adapted in other countries based on Torontonian’s reactions. #verykewl

Freekeh Facts:

• A flavourful ancient whole grain used for centuries throughout the Middle East, freekeh is made from fire-roasted wheatberries
• The word freekeh comes from the Arabic faraka referring to the wheat-roasting process
• High in protein
• High in calcium
• High in wholegrain fibre (up to four times the fibre of brown rice)
• Low glycemic index
• Rich in probiotic properties
• Low in carbohydrates
• Slightly sweet, nutty taste
• Vegetarian
• Kosher
• Not gluten-free

Hope you get a chance to try it soon. I have no doubt that this new salad is going to be a hit with their customers.

For more information:

Website: www.aroma.ca

Twitter: @aromaespresso

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AromaCanada

Disclosure: I was invited to a media event however all opinions are my own

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