Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Just a little something more...
I have been a stay at home for just about 10 years now and I can hardly believe it has gone by so fast. I've transitioned from a sleep deprived, overwhelmed, new mom rarely ever leaving the house to being a (miraculously) more rested "hockey mom" to 4 amazing little boys...running the roads all day as a taxi driver, enjoying a hot coffee in the early morning at the rink, back and forth to school, going on field trips, to playdates, birthday parties, kiddie lands, playlands, Christmas parties, you name it....and you know what?? I LOOOOOVE IT. There is NO where in the world I would rather be and I am SO blessed to be able to stay home full time...of course, we have had to make sacrifices to be a one income family, but me being home with our boys was what meant the most to Jody and I, so it was worth it. I wanted to be the here for EVERY first smile, giggle and step...and NEVER miss a moment.
But sometimes you get lost in the mommy role and you have a small desire to do something apart from being a mom. I think most mothers could attest to that. It's not that you don't love and cherish every inch of being a mom, but sometimes it's hard to always see where you are contributing outside of the daily task of getting 4 kids out the door and off to school on time or convincing a 3 year old to eat what he is given because you are not making 6 different meals...That, YES, you have to get a shower/bath AGAIN...the list could go on....
Although, you know you are investing in the lives of your little ones...and wouldn't want to be anywhere else, there can be a pull to have something in addition to daily routine tasks...because you know what? Being a mom is not an easy job. In reality...I think it really is THE hardest job in the world...trying to be the patient, loving, kindhearted mom you always envisioned you'd be and somedays feeling like you've really nailed it, only to feel like you've failed the next. Putting out SO much into your day, but feeling like you accomplished little. Even though changing pampers, reading stories and picking up play-doh all day really is the most rewarding job, you feel there has to be something more for you. For you moms who "get" this....this is where I was. This is the point I decided to add something more to my life and that is when I took my desire to be healthier and make it a full time job as a fitness coach.
I'm sure not everyone can understand why a busy mom of 4 boys would want to add working at home to an already hectic lifestyle or why I wouldn't just sit back and enjoy the ride. Not everyone can understand why I do what I do or how it changed my life in so many ways. Not everyone understands that if I could, I would get every mom to join me in being more active and more healthy because it feels SO good to do something for you, whether you are just in it to get healthy yourself, or to inspire others as you go. In truth, sometimes the highlight of my day is to receive a message from a challenger who "LOST 5lbs!!!" or a call from someone who feels that in some way I helped "change their life," when in reality they have changed MY life.
It's not about being top 20 in Canada or earning cruises or reaching "star diamond"(especially when most of the world doesn't even know what that means!..LOL!) and although ALL of this means the WORLD to me because it means I have reached goals in my business... but it means there is that something more. It's feeling like in some way, I can step outside of being "just a mom" and feel like I am making a difference in another one's life...no matter how big or how small.
Because as I mom, I get that we can feel disconnected from the real world. I get that some days we feel unappreciated. I get that we need support to reach our fitness goals, because it is NOT easy to go it alone. I get we can't all afford gym memberships or have child care to get to the gym. I get that it's nice to feel like you are bringing income into the family and helping to pay the bills. I get that there are SO many moms like me who LOVE being a part of a group and taking a little break through the day to "chat" with other adults...even if it's just online! And I get that other moms AND dads LOVE doing what I do and it has changed their lives in ways they could never have imagined.
It's crazy to think of how things have changed in less than one year. No doubt, I have always felt SO blessed to be home with my boys and blessed with health and happiness, but I feel doubly blessed that I can follow a passion to helping others achieve goals living healthier, fitter, happier lives, as well....DREAM COME TRUE. And the crazy part? All it took was one leap of faith and taking a chance on something new...:)
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
The Race That Almost Wasn't...
After over 15 years of running, I FINALLY committed to a half marathon a few months back! June 16, Father's Day, was race day and I was PUMPED! I trained for it. Les Mills Combat was my cross training program...combined with Hal Higdon's Half Training Schedule.
The weekend finally came and after weeks, uears really, of preparation I came down with one of the WORST chest colds I have ever had in my life. I am not one to get sick often, but the kids had been sick for two weeks straight...going in rounds, keeping this mama up almost every night leading up to the race. I saw my family doctor the Friday before race day to be sure I didn't have pneumonia and he gave me a thumb's up and "good luck in your race!" I was set!
Saturday night found me flat out in my hotel bed with cough medicine and kleenex. I downed a teaspoon of DM and hit the hay. Sunday was worse. I woke up in a pool of sweat and totally defeated. I googled EVERY variation of "running with head/chest cold" that I could find and it seemed the general consensus was above the neck...fine. Below the neck...attempt at your own risk...lol. I toyed with skipping the race. After reading numerous things to freak myself out just a little more....I decided it was best to put my phone away. I jumped out of bed and determined I was going to try.
Here's the thing about runners. We run. Bad weather? We run. Tired? We run. Flu? We run. Snow? We run. Below zero? We run. I had trained for what seemed like my whole LIFE for this race! I was NOT going to be stopped by a case of the flu. I jumped out of bed and looked around the room where my friend had posted NUMEROUS motivational quotes. This girl...I will forever thank her for doing that. She KNEW. She KNEW how much this race meant to me. She KNEW this was on my bucket list. She KNEW this was my New Year's Resolution and did not want to see me go home with regret. I hopped in the shower, and the steam did me good. I felt better already. I called my husband, slightly bummed I wasn't top notch and he simply told me "Have fun." He knew, too. He knows how much I love running. He knew I trained and I was prepared. He knew how excited I was to do this, encouraging me to go away on a weekend that really should have been all about him. My two biggest supporters were in my corner. I was ready.
We agreed, I should run 10k and reassess. If I felt it too hard, I would pull out at 10. But when I got down to that starting line, I knew I would finish. We had made a goal to finish at 1:50, but under 2:00 would be just fine. We kept a steady pace together and by 15k, I told her to push herself on with a thumb's up. I was comfortable. I was in a rhythm and didn't want to run out of steam in the last few k, but I SO wanted her to see where she would finish. I would never hold another back. She carried on and finished at a strong 1:55...I think had I been in top form, she could have hit our 1:50 goal. I came in 3 minutes behind at 1:58!
I DID IT! I've had this dream for years. I am not sure WHY it took me so long to fulfill it, but I made it and I have NO regrets. I think had I not run, I would have always wondered if I could have. This may not be the best choice for everyone..I would never encourage anyone to push their bodies beyond what they feel capable, but for me...it was the best decision.
I had the best running partner and the best motivators in the world. I now have my 21k under my belt and can honestly say, I gave it everything I had and I am SO glad I did! Would it have been the end of the world if I didn't run? Of course not. But when you set a goal, there is no greater feeling than accomplishment! The next day found me visiting my doctor with a sinus infection...lol, but I daresay it would have been the case anyway. And he congratulated me and sent me on my way with a prescription...;)
New Year's Resolution....check!
The weekend finally came and after weeks, uears really, of preparation I came down with one of the WORST chest colds I have ever had in my life. I am not one to get sick often, but the kids had been sick for two weeks straight...going in rounds, keeping this mama up almost every night leading up to the race. I saw my family doctor the Friday before race day to be sure I didn't have pneumonia and he gave me a thumb's up and "good luck in your race!" I was set!
Saturday night found me flat out in my hotel bed with cough medicine and kleenex. I downed a teaspoon of DM and hit the hay. Sunday was worse. I woke up in a pool of sweat and totally defeated. I googled EVERY variation of "running with head/chest cold" that I could find and it seemed the general consensus was above the neck...fine. Below the neck...attempt at your own risk...lol. I toyed with skipping the race. After reading numerous things to freak myself out just a little more....I decided it was best to put my phone away. I jumped out of bed and determined I was going to try.
Here's the thing about runners. We run. Bad weather? We run. Tired? We run. Flu? We run. Snow? We run. Below zero? We run. I had trained for what seemed like my whole LIFE for this race! I was NOT going to be stopped by a case of the flu. I jumped out of bed and looked around the room where my friend had posted NUMEROUS motivational quotes. This girl...I will forever thank her for doing that. She KNEW. She KNEW how much this race meant to me. She KNEW this was on my bucket list. She KNEW this was my New Year's Resolution and did not want to see me go home with regret. I hopped in the shower, and the steam did me good. I felt better already. I called my husband, slightly bummed I wasn't top notch and he simply told me "Have fun." He knew, too. He knows how much I love running. He knew I trained and I was prepared. He knew how excited I was to do this, encouraging me to go away on a weekend that really should have been all about him. My two biggest supporters were in my corner. I was ready.
We agreed, I should run 10k and reassess. If I felt it too hard, I would pull out at 10. But when I got down to that starting line, I knew I would finish. We had made a goal to finish at 1:50, but under 2:00 would be just fine. We kept a steady pace together and by 15k, I told her to push herself on with a thumb's up. I was comfortable. I was in a rhythm and didn't want to run out of steam in the last few k, but I SO wanted her to see where she would finish. I would never hold another back. She carried on and finished at a strong 1:55...I think had I been in top form, she could have hit our 1:50 goal. I came in 3 minutes behind at 1:58!
I DID IT! I've had this dream for years. I am not sure WHY it took me so long to fulfill it, but I made it and I have NO regrets. I think had I not run, I would have always wondered if I could have. This may not be the best choice for everyone..I would never encourage anyone to push their bodies beyond what they feel capable, but for me...it was the best decision.
I had the best running partner and the best motivators in the world. I now have my 21k under my belt and can honestly say, I gave it everything I had and I am SO glad I did! Would it have been the end of the world if I didn't run? Of course not. But when you set a goal, there is no greater feeling than accomplishment! The next day found me visiting my doctor with a sinus infection...lol, but I daresay it would have been the case anyway. And he congratulated me and sent me on my way with a prescription...;)
New Year's Resolution....check!
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Diastasis Recti - Abdominal Separation
So, almost one year after delivering my 4th little guy(5 pregnancies), here I sit. I have abdominal separation and meet with a specialist next month to talk about repair. Curious if there are mamas out there that have successfully closed the gap between the muscles on their own, or if surgery is the only way. It seems it is not budging. And honestly, the health risks that can erupt from diastasis recti (muscle separation) does not appeal to me...lol! I hear varying opinions about whether surgery is necessary and having had 4 c-sections, surgery is not necessarily high on my "to-do" list...ha! So the question is: Surgery or keep pushing out core exercise? I know sit ups and crunches are no-nos, but that isn't easy to avoid! Here are a few exercises "they" recommend for helping to correct the separation and truly, I think it depends on the degree of separation...:))
http://www.livestrong.com/
http://www.livestrong.com/
Friday, June 21, 2013
Flip Belt!
I have to share this awesome little fitness accessory! I used this while running my half on Sunday and it was PERFECT. Nothing moved! It's the same material as yoga pants(comfortable, washable, but secure) and has a few little pockets. It's perfect for running, the gym or even just a walk with the kids. Definitely worth the investment(roughly $30-35w/shipping). I didn't have to adjust anything on my run! It does not disappoint...
You can order yours here!
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Finding Your Fit
I think the most common mistake in people beginning a new healthy lifestyle is going so hard, so fast, then giving up. While going full force works great for some people, it doesn't always work for everyone. It's so important for people to choose goals that are attainable. Making small changes will soon turn into big changes that soon become a way of life. Finding an activity you enjoy, such as swimming or biking, would be far better than taking on a workout you dread that you are sure to put off or even forego on the best of days.
I see it all the time. People are so eager to have a quick fix, they ultimately sabotage themselves before they even start. Yes, it requires dedication and no, it's not ALWAYS fun, but choosing something you do enjoy will help you succeed.
Once you are into a good routine and making good nutrition and regular exercise a habit, then take on bigger challenges. Small progress is better than no progress...it needs to become a way of life, not a life long battle back and forth.
I am a runner because I enjoy running AND it keeps me active and healthy. I don't love biking, so I certainly didn't go out and buy myself a bike to keep fit. I enjoy martial art inspired workouts, so I discovered Les Mills Bodycombat. I am one who actually enjoys working out, but it is still important for me to do what I like to do, to ensure the best possible results and have fun in the process.
I LOVE to eat...and not just salads..lol. I do eat healthy every day. Make great choices when I can, but if I am out with my husband on a date night, or just feel like pizza night with the kids, I go for it. But that's it. It doesn't destroy the other 20 meals and numerous snacks in the week where I ate well.
Life is for living! I don't feel I deprive myself. I enjoy my healthy lifestyle. I love reaching my physical goals. I do work daily to maintain it....but I also like to have fun while doing it!
Find a lifestyle that you can maintain and enjoy! Your lifestyle doesn't have to match another's. It's about finding YOUR fit and making it work for you...:)
Feel free to check out my page!
I see it all the time. People are so eager to have a quick fix, they ultimately sabotage themselves before they even start. Yes, it requires dedication and no, it's not ALWAYS fun, but choosing something you do enjoy will help you succeed.
Once you are into a good routine and making good nutrition and regular exercise a habit, then take on bigger challenges. Small progress is better than no progress...it needs to become a way of life, not a life long battle back and forth.
I am a runner because I enjoy running AND it keeps me active and healthy. I don't love biking, so I certainly didn't go out and buy myself a bike to keep fit. I enjoy martial art inspired workouts, so I discovered Les Mills Bodycombat. I am one who actually enjoys working out, but it is still important for me to do what I like to do, to ensure the best possible results and have fun in the process.
I LOVE to eat...and not just salads..lol. I do eat healthy every day. Make great choices when I can, but if I am out with my husband on a date night, or just feel like pizza night with the kids, I go for it. But that's it. It doesn't destroy the other 20 meals and numerous snacks in the week where I ate well.
Life is for living! I don't feel I deprive myself. I enjoy my healthy lifestyle. I love reaching my physical goals. I do work daily to maintain it....but I also like to have fun while doing it!
Find a lifestyle that you can maintain and enjoy! Your lifestyle doesn't have to match another's. It's about finding YOUR fit and making it work for you...:)
Feel free to check out my page!
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Friday, April 19, 2013
Chocolada!
I've been throwing all sorts of yummies in the blender with my Shakeology....I'll never go a day without a shake as long as this hobby continues! Yummmmmy!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Fruit and Veggie Appetizers!
Some great and easy appetizers! Get some fruit and veggie servings into your guests with these appetizers that don't disappoint!
*Triscuit Crackers original and roasted garlic hummus.
*Green grapes dipped in melted caramels and cream and again dipped in crushed cashews. Admittedly, the caramel isn't the healthiest option, but each caramel is about 26 cals, and it takes about 1/2 caramel dipped...not THE worst option for a party...;)
*Mini-salad skewers. Grape tomato, low fat mozzarella cheese cubed, baby spinach leaf, half mushroom drizzled in balsamic Vinegar.
*Triscuit Crackers original and roasted garlic hummus.
*Green grapes dipped in melted caramels and cream and again dipped in crushed cashews. Admittedly, the caramel isn't the healthiest option, but each caramel is about 26 cals, and it takes about 1/2 caramel dipped...not THE worst option for a party...;)
*Mini-salad skewers. Grape tomato, low fat mozzarella cheese cubed, baby spinach leaf, half mushroom drizzled in balsamic Vinegar.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Thursday, January 31, 2013
My Passion
I am a part of the Beachbody Coaching team. I have been using Beachbody products for some time now and have had excellent results! I have taken 2 fitness instructor courses in the past, so it has always been of deep interest for me. Being a stay at home mom, I was looking for a way to motivate others in reaching their goals while still being here with my boys full time. When the coaching opportunity came to Canada, I knew it was perfect for me. Yes, I can make an income, but more importantly, I can encourage others to reach goals...showing them a product I truly believe in.
My biggest draw to Beachbody, initially, was being able to workout at home. Getting to the gym with little ones is not always an easy task. Having a workout available to me at any time is just what I needed. I wouldn't miss a class, didn't need childcare, a mapped out meal plan, no excuses. The schedule would always work for me! I am about to embark on the 60 day Les Mills Combat program. I have done combat for years and to be honest, it is one of my faves.
I LOVE this journey. It is exactly what I needed to stay focused on my own fitness goals, while motivating others! Some stay at home moms enjoy selling make-up or jewelry, bc that is what they love. I love fitness....Love setting goals, love working out, love motivating others. This is exactly where I need to be right now and it feels good...:)
My website is listed above, if you are like me....with a passion for fitness and a passion for people!
My biggest draw to Beachbody, initially, was being able to workout at home. Getting to the gym with little ones is not always an easy task. Having a workout available to me at any time is just what I needed. I wouldn't miss a class, didn't need childcare, a mapped out meal plan, no excuses. The schedule would always work for me! I am about to embark on the 60 day Les Mills Combat program. I have done combat for years and to be honest, it is one of my faves.
I LOVE this journey. It is exactly what I needed to stay focused on my own fitness goals, while motivating others! Some stay at home moms enjoy selling make-up or jewelry, bc that is what they love. I love fitness....Love setting goals, love working out, love motivating others. This is exactly where I need to be right now and it feels good...:)
My website is listed above, if you are like me....with a passion for fitness and a passion for people!
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Taking Pics
I have always LOVED taking pictures. Admittedly, I am not a fantastic photographer, but I do have a pretty fantastic camera that I love, the Nikon D90, so can managed to pop out a few framers...;) I have had it for 3 years and am just learning what to do when I take it out of auto.
My husband bought me a fancy flash for Christmas and it has really put a bug in me to utilize this fancy cam to its fullest. I have a general idea of aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc, but to put it into action with my kids is no easy task. That is one of my goals this year: to boost my picture taking ability...without any photoshop...ha!
Kudos to all the photographers of the world. Capturing cherished moments is definitely an art...and not an easy one. But whether they be amateur or pro, pictures help us re-live those treasured moments. I don't think anyone has ever uttered the words, "I wish I hadn't taken so many pictures!" A picture is truly worth a thousand words.
My husband bought me a fancy flash for Christmas and it has really put a bug in me to utilize this fancy cam to its fullest. I have a general idea of aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc, but to put it into action with my kids is no easy task. That is one of my goals this year: to boost my picture taking ability...without any photoshop...ha!
Kudos to all the photographers of the world. Capturing cherished moments is definitely an art...and not an easy one. But whether they be amateur or pro, pictures help us re-live those treasured moments. I don't think anyone has ever uttered the words, "I wish I hadn't taken so many pictures!" A picture is truly worth a thousand words.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Sweet and Spicy Chili
One of my fave winter day recipes is chili. Easy, yummy, comfort food can't be beat. You don't need much, including time, to make a hearty chili. So, after reading through a few recipes online, I just grabbed what I had in my kitchen and loosely followed the basics. It's been a staple for about 3 years now...:)
1lb lean ground beef
1 can Hunts spicy red pepper and chilies pasta sauce
1 can light tomato soup
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can dark red kidney beans
Mushrooms
Onion
Seasoning: (to taste)
Old El Paso individual packet chili seasoning
Brown sugar(I like about 3tbsp or so)
Minced garlic
Salt & pepper
Chili powder
Red pepper flakes
Brown meat. I put a little beef broth in for flavor.
While meat is browning you can mix your tomatoes, sauces, soup, seasoning together in large pot. Add mushrooms, onion, any veggies you prefer, and kidney beans.
Drain meat, add to sauce. Simmer over low heat. A half hour is enough to warm, but I like to simmer for 1.5-2 hours for flavors to combine.
We like to add a little cheese to each bowl and the boys like to use tortilla chips for dipping....or of course dinner rolls.
A great way to re-invent your chili leftovers is in a taco salad. Pick up a few tomatoes, tortillas, head of lettuce, cucumbers, shredded cheese, whatever veggies you enjoy! Top with sour cream and/or salsa!
Enjoy!!
1lb lean ground beef
1 can Hunts spicy red pepper and chilies pasta sauce
1 can light tomato soup
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can dark red kidney beans
Mushrooms
Onion
Seasoning: (to taste)
Old El Paso individual packet chili seasoning
Brown sugar(I like about 3tbsp or so)
Minced garlic
Salt & pepper
Chili powder
Red pepper flakes
Brown meat. I put a little beef broth in for flavor.
While meat is browning you can mix your tomatoes, sauces, soup, seasoning together in large pot. Add mushrooms, onion, any veggies you prefer, and kidney beans.
Drain meat, add to sauce. Simmer over low heat. A half hour is enough to warm, but I like to simmer for 1.5-2 hours for flavors to combine.
We like to add a little cheese to each bowl and the boys like to use tortilla chips for dipping....or of course dinner rolls.
A great way to re-invent your chili leftovers is in a taco salad. Pick up a few tomatoes, tortillas, head of lettuce, cucumbers, shredded cheese, whatever veggies you enjoy! Top with sour cream and/or salsa!
Enjoy!!
Hockey's back!!!
My little dude's been waiting his whole life to get in on the hockey action! This house is looking forward to the game today!!
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Contests
I had never considered myself one to enter contests......until one specific contest caught my eye. It was February of 2011 and John Frieda Canada hosted a giveaway with their Brilliant Brunette line. It was 2 night, 3 day stay at The Surrey Hotel and Spa in NYC, complete with a cut, colour, and style for the winner and guest at the Madison Ave John Frieda Salon. The trip included gift cards to the Henri Bendel on 5th Ave, as well as to the Tao restaurant....PLUS a little spending money. All airfare included. HOW could anyone pass up this opportunity to win such a great prize?! First on my list was to make sure it was legit, so I called the number on my trusty old Brilliant Brunette shampoo, that I truly use consistently...and sure enough it was the real deal.
It was a Facebook contest and with 1500 entries, I was certain I would NEVER win. I had entered the contest late and it was based on votes. The entry required was a photo of yourself explaining why you shine...NOT an easy blurb to write of yourself. I had a really hard time coming up with anything that was not over-indulgent, as I know there are few people who enjoy listening to anyone ramble on about how wonderful they are...and quite honestly that is not me. So, I kept it short and sweet. My photo included a picture of myself and my then only 3 boys with the caption: "These busy little boys make me shine" or something of the sort...which could not be more true. These boys are the reason for my existence.
I am not entirely sure how it came about, but when I woke up the next morning I had hit the first page. I can only credit my wonderful family and many friends who believed I could possibly win this thing. The goal was to make it to the top 10, as then John Frieda would choose the ultimate winner. After a SOLID month of voting EVERY SINGLE day, I had somehow stuck first place and was later announced the winner and it was absolutely, 100% the trip of a lifetime...and I am forever grateful to those who voted. It was for myself and a guest and my husband and I had a much needed mini-vacation that July. I have nothing, but praise for The Surrey, The Tao, Henri Bendel and of course John Frieda for making my experience most memorable. When I am back in NYC..which I most definitely will be, I will make it a point to go back to these locations..I am forever a fan!
The Surrey
Having won such a wonderful prize gave me a contesting bug. My most recent contest was also on FB and hosted by an up and coming leather handbag company, Cuore and Pelle. They were giving away 10 of their beautiful Sophia bags and I was lucky enough to be one of the 10 and received my bag just over a week ago and it is stunning..:) I need to add that I am very impressed with this company, so far. Not only do they have beautiful handbags, but being a follower on Twitter and FB, I see how personable they are...this is very valuable to me as a customer. I encourage you to check out their site!
My point: I can't help, but think that of course SOMEONE has to win and I now enter a ridiculous amount of contests, big and small. I had wondered how legit these "giveaways" really were, but as long as I know the company name and know they have a good reputation, I am all over this new obsession of contesting....and absolutely encourage others to jump on board!
It was a Facebook contest and with 1500 entries, I was certain I would NEVER win. I had entered the contest late and it was based on votes. The entry required was a photo of yourself explaining why you shine...NOT an easy blurb to write of yourself. I had a really hard time coming up with anything that was not over-indulgent, as I know there are few people who enjoy listening to anyone ramble on about how wonderful they are...and quite honestly that is not me. So, I kept it short and sweet. My photo included a picture of myself and my then only 3 boys with the caption: "These busy little boys make me shine" or something of the sort...which could not be more true. These boys are the reason for my existence.
I am not entirely sure how it came about, but when I woke up the next morning I had hit the first page. I can only credit my wonderful family and many friends who believed I could possibly win this thing. The goal was to make it to the top 10, as then John Frieda would choose the ultimate winner. After a SOLID month of voting EVERY SINGLE day, I had somehow stuck first place and was later announced the winner and it was absolutely, 100% the trip of a lifetime...and I am forever grateful to those who voted. It was for myself and a guest and my husband and I had a much needed mini-vacation that July. I have nothing, but praise for The Surrey, The Tao, Henri Bendel and of course John Frieda for making my experience most memorable. When I am back in NYC..which I most definitely will be, I will make it a point to go back to these locations..I am forever a fan!
Tao
Henri Bendel
Having won such a wonderful prize gave me a contesting bug. My most recent contest was also on FB and hosted by an up and coming leather handbag company, Cuore and Pelle. They were giving away 10 of their beautiful Sophia bags and I was lucky enough to be one of the 10 and received my bag just over a week ago and it is stunning..:) I need to add that I am very impressed with this company, so far. Not only do they have beautiful handbags, but being a follower on Twitter and FB, I see how personable they are...this is very valuable to me as a customer. I encourage you to check out their site!
My point: I can't help, but think that of course SOMEONE has to win and I now enter a ridiculous amount of contests, big and small. I had wondered how legit these "giveaways" really were, but as long as I know the company name and know they have a good reputation, I am all over this new obsession of contesting....and absolutely encourage others to jump on board!
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