I know it’s been a while since I’ve last written a blog post. Forgive me?

To get back into the swing of things (no pun intended), I attended a fun Rogers Cup event today at the Aviva Centre. It was the perfect event for me, seeing as I’ve been a loyal tennis fan since 1990!!

Here I am on Centre Court which is definitely not an everyday experience for me!!

I found out that 19 out of the top 20 seeds will be playing at this years tournament which takes place from Aug 6 – 12th at Aviva Centre, York University.

One of those top seeds is Milos Raonic who was practicing on Centre Court. (squeal).  Of course I hung around to take a few photos and watch this talented player for a few minutes.

The event included:

-a tennis clinic

-a delicious lunch

-an informative presentation with Nanci Guest who is a Registered Dietician,  about sports nutrition and how we can incorporate Danone products into a healthy lifestyle

-a chance to hang out in the Players Lounge

Not to mention there was an incredible charcuterie board from Cheese Boutique.

OK back to the Rogers Cup!! Please note that there’s a 407 ETR Free Community Weekend, which runs August 4 & 5 at Aviva Centre and is FREE and FUN for the whole family. Many years ago, I use to take advantage of this free weekend and take my kids so they too could learn from an early age about this incredible tournament.

The event ended with some cool swag. Now all I need is to get back on the court!!

Would like to give a huge thank you to @RogersCup and @DanoneCanada for inviting me to this event. I was all too happy to take a day off work to attend!

For more information about this years tournament:

Website: www.RogersCup.com

Twitte and Instagram: @RogersCup

Facebook: www.facebook.com/RogersCup

 

Israel turned 70 this year and I’m going to celebrate by attending a few events this week!

Here’s the three experiences that are on my radar:

1 . The Toronto Jewish Film Festival is taking place from May 3 to 12 and of course I’ve spent time studying the festival guide to make my selections and trust me this takes a bit of time! However due to the bad weather last weekend, I watched plenty of video clips and made my selections! Cool fact: one of the films being shown at this years festival (Doubtful) is currently in theatres in Israel.

Also, don’t delay to buy your tickets. I tried to get into one film and it’s sold out. Lesson learned! Either order online or call 416 324-9191 (phone lines  are open from 12 pm to 6 pm) or head to the Festival Box Office at 19 Madison from 12 pm to 6 pm.

For more information:

Website: www.tjff.com

Twitter: @TJFF

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

(ps I love their Facebook page and follow it closely)

Instagram: @TJFF

2. I’ve also been following Spotlight on Israeli Culture which has a variety of events taking place throughout the city from March to June 2018.  There’s something for everyone – theatre, cuisine, film, literature,  dance, music , visual arts

Click here to view the entire schedule.

Naturally I’m going to the Cuisine event and I’m heading to the Music event too (just to mix things up a bit!!).

I’m excited to hear some Israeli Jazz featuring renowned jazz innovator, Israeli trumpeter Itamar Borochov. Award-winning local singer Aviva Chernick, will open the evening with her unique sound. #soexcited

This event is being held on Sunday May 6th at 730 pm at the Rex Jazz and Blues Bar (194 Queen St West). $20 Cash at the door on the night of the event.

For more information:

Website: http://www.spotlightonisraeliculture.ca

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

3. I’m also determined to head to Parallel to eat some hummus and pita. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Israels’ birthday. This restaurant has been on my radar since they opened and its about time I get there!!

I also following them closely on Facebook and I’m hungry each time I see their posts.

Website: https://parallelbrothers.com

Address: 217 Geary Avenue

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

Disclosure: I’ve been provided with complimentary tickets however all opinions are my own

A few weeks ago I celebrated my birthday. I never use to make a big deal out of my birthday but lately I’ve really been embracing it. I mean “why not”, right?

In previous years, I’ve travelled (click here to read more)  or threw a big party (click here to read more). This  year, I took the day off (which I’ve never done before but know lots of people who practice this tradition) and started to celebrate my birthday a week in advance!!

Here’s the details:

a) I went to a Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa  to have a much needed facial. For me, this is a real treat and a real reminder to take care of my skin more often.

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa has 26 locations throughout the GTA and offers facials, massages, waxing and other services, 7 days a week. They also offer a membership program that is free with no fees to join or cancel. #loveit.

After the facial, my skin was glowing.

I seriously need to become a member. Just like I need to allocate funds for “coffee” I need to allocate funds for “self care and wellness” too.

b) I also went to the Drake Devonshire in Prince Edward County. It took me 3 years to visit this hotel but I finally did it. It was everything I had been reading about and more. Every inch of this hotel is out of a design magazine…the tiles, the wall paper, the water pitcher in your room, the signage etc. It’s uber unique and I can see why this hotel is so popular (book well ahead – i.e. months ahead).

Just adored every inch of this property.

True Story: I was at the Drake Devonshire in the summer of 1996 when it was a bed and breakfast.

As for my eating adventures in PEC: (Prince Edward County)

-Lunch: Can’t Escape the Crepe. (206 Main St. Picton, ON)

-Coffee: The Vic Cafe (222 Main St, Picton ON)

-Dinner: The Drake Devonshire

-Lunch #2: The County Yum Club (13633 Loyalist Parkway, PEC)

Many thanks to my Instagram friend @judyhsilverberg for the recommendations. They were all perfect suggestions.

It was a great birthday! No complaints about anything…except perhaps the weather which has been really crappy in April over the last few years!!

Curious to know if you have any birthday traditions. Do share.

Disclosure: I was provided a complimentary treatment from Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, however all my opinions are my own.

I’ve got a confession to make. See this track? See this pool? Sadly whenever I need to count laps I’m simply UNABLE to keep track. Each time I get out there I really do try and each time I fail. 

However, EPSON has solved my problems.  They’ve  introduced a line of watches (5 models to be exact) that help me out with this problem … and more! There’s 2 GPS Running Watches and 3 Multisport watches that were launched in early November and I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak.

Specifically the watch that I want to blog about today is the EPSON ProSense 307. Here’s why this watch is so amazing:

-Accurate GPS and Heart Rate

–Multisport functions: 1. swim (pool or open water) 2. run (outdoor or indoor), 3. bike (outdoor or indoor).

-EasyView Display (no glare) and comfy silicon wrist band.

-Easy to use 5 button design and dedicated back button.

–Up to 24 hour GPS Battery life (very cool feature) AND Activity Tracking (5 to 7 days) AND Watch Mode (30 Days). 

This brilliant watch also features, VO2 Max Recovery Time and Training Effect Estimates, Music Control, Interval Training, Workout Alerts, Alarm Clock and Waypoint Navigation.

Plus there’s an app for automatic data upload that goes directly to all your personal devices.

Seriously, this watch has it all!!

If you don’t think you need all these features, there are different watches at a variety of price points.  Please consider looking at the entire range of EPSON watches which range in price from around $129 to $539. The difference in price reflects the difference in features and battery range however all of them are waterproof and have the same highly accurate components.

I was all to happy to give this watch to my boyfriend on the day of his first 5 km race. He wore it with pride and he enjoyed checking out all the functions. Not to mention his time for the race was a personal best. I’d like to think it had something to do with the watch!!

For further information:

Website: www.epson.ca

Twitter/Instagram:

Disclosure: I was provided with a EPSON 307, however all opinions are my own.

 

 

 

No shortage of events in November! Here’s a list of a few of my favourites to keep you busy as the days get shorter and the temperatures take a dip (sad but true).

Whole  Life Expo

To be honest, I’ve never been been to this show but I’m on my way this weekend to check it out. Something tells me I’m not going to be disappointed. P.S. This consumer show takes place Nov 3-5 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Click here for more info.

Royal Winter Fair. 

I’ve only started to go to this event in the last few yeas but I’m a fan!! I love the food vendors, the animals, the displays, and more. Just give yourself enough time – its’ bigger than you think!!

My Favourite Sample Sale : I take this sample sale seriously and will be there on Monday Nov 13th as soon as the doors open. I can’t wait to buy my Spring/Summer wardrobe for 2018!!

Toronto Jewish Film Festival – Theres a screening of an Israeli TV series called “Your Honour”  over two separate Sundays and I will be there!! I can’t wait as I’m somewhat in love with Israeli TV series (thanks to Netflix and TJFF). Click here for dates/times/location.

One of a Kind Christmas Show:  Over 800 artisans and 122 exhibitors will be showcasing their creations of handcrafted ceramics, jewellery, furniture, food, clothing and accessories. This show is always great. True Story: I bought a sculpture in the early 1990’s from this show, and its’ still hanging on my walls and receiving compliments from guests!

Wishing everyone a wonderful November! I know I’m not going to be bored. LOL

The first thing that comes to my mind when you say “September” or “October” is APPLES. It’s funny, I didn’t grow up apple picking but as soon as I had kids it was something we did almost every single year.

Sadly I can’t get the kids (now 17 and 21) to go anymore, but that doesn’t stop me from heading out to Milton to go apple picking!!

So a few weeks ago, my boyfriend and I headed out on a beautiful Sunday and went to Chudleigh’s.

We timed our visit right and went around 2 pm which meant that it was nap time and missed the morning “rush” of families. (#smartmove)

I managed to accomplish everything on my visit.

a) I simply HAD to have the corn on the cob.

b) I simply HAD to go on a wagon ride. Yes – I’m 52 years old and still feel like a 10 year old sometimes. LOL

c) We filled up a bag of apples and then went home to make a delicious dessert that I discovered on Tip Hero. Promise to share this recipe with you in more detail in a future blog post. PROMISE.

Seeing as we went early in the season, there were only two varieties available. However this DID NOT stop us from enjoying our experience.

There’s plenty of apple varieties (throughout the season) to keep everyone happy.

We are still enjoying a warm Fall so don’t hesitate to consider a trip to Chudleigh’s. Here’s proof.

 

Happy Apple Picking!

PS Chudleigh’s is open till Oct 31st!

For more information:

Website: www.Chudleighs.com

Address: 9528 Regional Road 25
Halton Hills, ON L9T 2X7

Twitter/Instagram: @chudleighsfarm

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

Disclosure: I was provided with complimentary passes, however all opinions are my own

The CNE has arrived and my stretch pants are ready! ! This year there’s another incredible line up of food at the CNE. and I was all too happy to snap a few photos and taste a few items as well.

Here’s just a few examples of what you can expect to indulge in!

1. Bacon Nation has created a Canada 150 inspired ALL Canadian Red Hot Burger. (Location: Food Building)
2. The King of Curds will be serving deep fried cheese curds sprinkled with icing sugar and served with pure Canadian Maple Syrup. YUM. YUM and more YUM.  (Location: Midway)
3. This photo says it all (location: Food Building)
4. Tim Hortons as always,introduced some tasty Canadian-themed treats.
5. Yatai (a sister project of Kanpai snack bar) has created this pretty epic fried chicken burger that’s in between fried ramen (instead of a bun) along with two kinds of kewpie mayo. Loved it and you will too!6. Pizza Nova has introduced a Pizza made with Carbone Dough.  Basically this is their traditional dough infused with activated charcoal and I regret not tasting it!!7. The Lisa Marie food truck will be serving an enormous double lobster patty burger. Seriously this burger was bigger than my hand. 
6. You can also find this deep fried goodness at this years CNE.

Seriously there’s no end to interesting food at the CNE: Deep Fried Chicken Feet, Cricket Cones, Peanut Butter Sriracha Bites, Spaghetti Donut Balls, and more!

There’s also the Midway and I couldn’t resist playing one of my all time favourite games….

Not to mention that this years’ CNE features OH Canada! Aerial Acrobatics & Ice Skating Show with internationally renowned skater Elvis Stojko. There’s two free performances every day (2 and 5 pm).

Details that you should know about the CNE 2017:

-The CNE opens from Aug 18 to Sept 4, 2017

-Gates are open daily from 10 am to 10 pm (rides and midway stay open until midnight)

-Labour Day Monday: Gates close at 5 pm. Buildings close at 7 pm, rides and ground open till 9 pm.

-General admission $19 (14 to 64 years)

-Children (5 to 13 years) $16 Children under 5: Free

-CNE Family Pass (2 adults and 2 children, or 1 adult and 3 children) $59

Specials:

-Opening Day Special $10 (Friday Aug 18 only)

-Kids Toonie Mondays

-$8 after 5 pm on Monday Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays

To learn more about the CNE and about special offers and discounts please visit www.theex.com or call the CNE info line at 416 263 3330

I’ve recently returned from my first trip to Philadelphia and for the entire four days all I did was Tour and Eat, Tour and Eat…and Repeat. I’m not complaining as I wore the right shoes (my beloved Keen Uneeks) and wore the right clothes (um, stretchy pants).

Let’s start with the touring part of my trip:

I used the Big Bus Tours as much as possible as it’s a great way to see a city. In fact, every time I visit a new city I will use these “hop and off” buses.

I got off whenever I wanted to check out an attraction or museum, and then simply hopped back on after my visit. Their tour guides were cheerful, friendly and informative too.

Usually I’m not a museum person, however I took the time to check out the following museums/attractions and I’m really happy I made this decision.

–Barnes Foundation

–Philadelphia Museum of Art

–Rodin Museum

–National Museum of American Jewish History

–The Franklin Institute

–Independence Hall

-Liberty Bell Centre

-Rocky Steps & Statue

I walked, and walked and walked some more. In fact, my Samsung GearFit indicated that I walked 18,000 steps one day!

As for food:

I asked my cousin to send me a list of where I ate over my visit and this is what she sent me.  I was lucky enough to share a few meals with them which was the best idea as we cut up everything we ordered into thirds. Smart Move!

Tuesday
Carmen’s (cheese steak – lunch at Reading Market of course)
Fiesta Pizza (cheese steak – dinner)
Dalessandro’s (cheese steak – dinner)
Rita’s Italian Ices (dessert)

Wednesday

Dizengoff (inside the Whole Foods…this is unique to Philadelphia)
High Point Cafe @ Allens Lane Station (morning coffee)
Parks on Tap (to enjoy a beer in a beautiful park)
Vedge for a vegan dinner)
Big Gay Ice Cream

Thursday

The Franklin Fountain (rootbeer float)
Lennie’s (hoagie)
McNally’s (for their famous Schmitter®!)
Bredenbecks (ice cream)

Friday
Volo (coffee)
Insomnia Cookies
Monk’s Cafe (for unique beer that is hard to find)

Seriously, there was no shortage of good food to check out! I must say I tried hard to find foods that were unique to Philly and I’m pretty sure I can say “mission accomplished”. Now that I’ve returned to Toronto I’m back on track and eating more fruits and salad. LOL

I summed up Philadelphia like this: it’s bigger than Ottawa, but smaller than Montreal. I really did enjoy this city and do doubt will be returning seeing as the flight is only 1.5 hours from Toronto.

For complete tourism information please check out this website: www.visitphilly.com

Disclosure: A VIP pass was provided to me by the Philadelphia Tourism Office however all opinions are my own

The month of May is going to wiz by. Here’s why.

May 4 to 14 – I will be seeing as many films as I can throughout the Toronto Jewish Film Festival. I’ve been been busy studying the guide and putting together a schedule! Can’t wait to help them celebrate their 25th anniversary.

On May 4th – I will be walking thru the aisles of SIAL looking for new products to share with you. For example – Sugar Cubes that are available in three flavours : cardamom, cinnamon and saffron. Stay tuned for an entire blog post dedicated to this incredible trade show.

On May 6th – I’m heading to Oxford County to go on their Cheese Trail.  Every Saturday in May, you can head to Canada’s Dairy Capital in Oxford County and enjoy the day celebrating all things cheese. How can I NOT go? LOL

On May 8th at exactly 9:30 am you will find me and my cheque book at this fabulous Sample Sale. I will happily be shopping for my FALL wardrobe at wholesale prices. Love. Love. Love This Sample Sale.

On May 10-11th – I will have the opportunity to drive the the 2018 Equinox on a beautiful drive through some of Niagara Region’s most charming towns. The route promises to include great food, activities and accommodations too.

I’ve been told that the 2018 Equinox is a fresh and modern SUV that’s sized and designed to meet the needs of the compact SUV customer. It will be the perfect balance of design and technology to keep me safe, comfortable and connected.

May 14th – Mother’s Day! Planning on meeting my mom in Kingston to celebrate this special day with her, and planning on spending the evening with my daughter.

May 16 to 19 – I’m heading to Philadelphia and I’m too excited for words as I’ve never been to this city and the food scene sounds amazing. (a priority – clearly).

May 23rd – more good news to follow!!

My biggest challenge is how to get to Ottawa to see the Tulip Festival. ARGHHH.

Hopefully I will get a chance to rest in June.

The company I work for has a policy that if you work overtime then you must take off that time within two weeks. I wanted to take full advantage of that day off but it was November and it wasn’t exactly ideal weather to fly somewhere for a for a long weekend.

I was racking my brains what to do – and then I came up with the idea to drive for an hour and a half so I could be pampered at  Ste. Anne’s Spa. Sometimes, I really do have great ideas!!

As you can see from the schedule, I was going to have a great day.

Of course, the day included some time in their outdoor hot tub.Plus I made sure to spend as much time as possible, hanging out in their robes.

I found out that there’s a new chef in the kitchen and I must say that I noticed the improvement, since my last visit a few years ago. My food not only was presented beautifully but it was cooked to perfection.

Not complaining that my day ended off with a gorgeous Afternoon Tea.

I would highly recommend Ste. Anne’s Spa but please note that they are a very busy destination so book as early as you can!! You will love their facilities, food, warm and welcoming service and attention to detail. Promise.

Please note that they offer many fantastic “packages”.  There’s a February package, a March Getaway Package and even a Yoga Retreat.

For more information:

Website www.steannes.com

Address: 1009 Massey Road, Grafton, ON, K0K 2G0

Reservations: 1.888.346.6772 or info@steannes.com

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