I have a feeling that there’s more than a few people out there still looking for last minute gift ideas. Here’s a few suggestions:

FOR ANYONE:  A Gift Card or A Membership to Ripleys Aquarium. This is one special attraction that is sure to delight any one at any age! PS they are opened all year long. Did you know that?

FOR THE BUSY MOM: May I suggest the Hamilton Beach Dual Sandwich Maker?  Just put in a few ingredients, plug it in the wall and push a button. After a few minutes you will have an amazing warm and satisfying sandwich.

FOR THE STUDENT: What about a gift card from Aroma Espresso Bar, for their decadent hot chocolate or delicious sandwiches? Can’t go wrong.

FOR YOUR PARENTS: a customized photo calendar. I’ve done this several times and it’s ALWAYS a hit.

FOR YOU..hee hee..nothing like treating yourself. (I’m a big believer, can you tell?). …can you say SPA? What are you waiting for? Just go. Some of my favorite spas include: Body Blitz, Ste. Anne’s and Healthwinds. PS the Korean Family Spa is open all year long.

FOR ANYONE: a subscription to NextIssue or Netflix. I think both of these gifts are perfect for anyone. NextIssue has 180 Magazines for only $9.99 a month. #loveit

FOR THE FOODIE:  A SodaStream is going to compliment any kitchen. I promise. I’m loving the new sleek design and how easy it is to use. Anyone I know who has a SodaStream, loves it. #justsayin’

FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING: Just head to www.Etsy.ca .there is something for EVERYONE on this special website.

FOR THE TECHIE: I’m in love with my Samsung Galaxy S5  and they will be too! I switched over from my iPhone 5 in a nano second and haven’t regretted the decision. Best features: the camera rocks and the fact that I’m not required to put in a password when downloading a new app or music is a HUGE bonus!

Happy Last Minute Shopping!!

 

 

 

I knew I wanted to drive somewhere special on my last day driving the Chevy Volt. I also knew I wanted to go somewhere I had never been to before. I quickly realized that a day trip to Ste. Anne’s Spa would be ideal.

I have been known to be a unhappy customer at a few spas in Ontario…you know, where everything that is suppose to be right goes wrong? Well Ste Anne’s was simply perfect. I cant complain about anything!.

From the minute I arrived till the minute I left – everything was truly thought of.

Here’s how my day went:

7:00 a.m. left Toronto

8:30 a.m. arrived at their beautiful property and was warmly greeted with a complimentary bag. What a genius idea as I was shlepping a lot of “stuff” and really needed this extra bag.

9:00 a.m. My day started off with a Caribbean Aqua Therapy Treatment (new for me)!! My skin was exfoliated and then I was rolled under (well the table was rolled) under the Vichy Shower. Following the Vichy Shower, my body was massaged with the Caribbean Therapy Line. If my skin could talk it would scream, say “THANK YOU”.

9:30 a.m – 10:30 am Had fun in the outdoor cold plunge pool, hot tub, and small lap pool. Then went indoors to enjoy the eucalyptus steam room (heaven)

11:00 am – Stretch class. I have never done this type of class before but I was intrigued. Let’s just say that I was relaxed before the class and certainly feeling relaxed after the class.

12:00 – 1:30 p.m Lunch with Marketing Manager of Special Projects. What a treat!! I was not surprised when she told me that 25,000 people visit Ste. Annes each year. The place was packed on a Monday before the summer has even started. She took me on a tour of their beautifully appointed rooms and it was evident that she is passionate about her job. Oh yeah – she introduced me to St. Annes own line Nourishment Line. Guests have the opportunity to use these “unadultered botanical” products while they shower. Then they line up to buy the products in the retail store!! I swear – the products are that good.

1:30 p.m – 3 pm – hung out by the pool

3:00 p.m had to leave (boo) so that I could return the Chevy Volt (boo). Two very sad events for me as I had a blast driving the Chevy Volt and a spectacular experience at Ste. Annes.

Here is a list why this property stood out amongst the other spas I have visited:

-plenty of friendly staff. Staff was everywhere I looked – either they were cleaning, or helping clients answer questions, or greeting clients. There was no shortage of staff to help you.

-everything was clean and well maintained.

-nothing was overlooked. i.e a schedule was sent to me prior to my arrival, the complimentary bag, the electronic locks (no need for a key to hang from my wrist) etc.

-the property and the buildings are gorgeous….trees galore, sitting nooks, patios…I had plenty of options!!

Hope you get to visit Ste. Anne’s one day soon.  You won’t be disappointed.

1009 Massey Road

Grafton, ON

1 888 346 6772