Care Sinclair 7/30/19 Care Sinclair 7/30/19

Save On Essentials With Love Me Do Baby & Maternity's NEW Love Points Loyalty Program + Get 150 BONUS POINTS!!

Shopping for a new baby, and keeping up with our little one’s ever changing needs, can be an expensive endeavour for parents. So it’s always nice to find ways to save a little money along the way, while not compromising on quality or service. One of my all time favourite local & online baby boutiques, Love Me Do Baby & Maternity, is doing just this. The owner Linda, and her amazing team, always offer the most incredible customer service experience (eg. they have the sweetest spot to rest & play, offer Complimentary Professional Car Seat Installation with car seat purchase, and host tons of In-store events), and now they’ve introduced a NEW Love Points Loyalty Program, that earns you points toward future purchases!* In the world of parenting it really doesn’t get much better than free stuff.

The best part is that they made it so simple. All you need to do is create a customer profile with your name and email address (profile can be made in-store, or you can Register Online by clicking the “check rewards” tab). Once you’re all set up, there are a whole bunch of simple ways you can start to earn points to redeem at the store. You’ll even get special stuff like birthday points! As a very special perk Enter Code SHOPWITHCARE at checkout to recieve 50 Bonus Points! Plus if you share a photo of your purchase on Instagram and tag With Care & Love Me Do Baby & Maternity you’ll receive an additional 100 Bonus Points!!

Since so many of us live in small spaces it’s all about quality over quantity, and finding the perfect product to suit your needs. I always appreciate that Love Me Do keeps their inventory and their “Registry Essentials” list to just that, quality essentials! They understand parenting and living in a city. They don’t want to add to your stress by breaking your budget or weighing you down with unnecessary stuff. Make sure to head over to Love Me Do online and set up your profile so you can start earning points today! You can thank me when you earn your first free purchase ;)

- Care

*Some Conditions & Restrictions Apply. Full Details

*This is a sponsored post which means I was provided compensation and/or products/services for this post. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. I only partner with companies, services and institutions that I genuinely love and want to recommend.

Care Sinclair 1/8/19 Care Sinclair 1/8/19

Join Me At The Total Mom Show + 2 Ways To WIN Tickets! + 15% OFF

As a busy mom it’s so easy to get caught up in placing our children’s wellness ahead of our own, and forgetting to give ourselves the time and attention we need to thrive. That’s why I’m so excited to be taking part in The Total Mom Show this February. An incredible local event that is geared toward educating, supporting, and celebrating Moms. Sounds pretty amazing to me!

There’s so much going on at this show that I thought I would break it down and give you all the details, plus a chance to WIN some tickets, and get a sweet discount!

The Total Mom Show is unlike any other out there for moms. The 2 day festival will feature immersive activities, expert speakers, vibrant panel discussions, and two interactive floors of local vendors focussing on all things mom. Participants can indulge in some epic pampering in the Face Forward Zone. Simply pre-book your appointment via the Total Mom Show App and enjoy a treatment at the show. Once you’re sufficiently relaxed you'll want to check out the Recipe For Life Zone for a variety of healthy and delicious eats. Then head over to the Mom Life Hacks Zone to learn how to make your busy mom life a little easier.

Another amazing part of The Total Mom Show is The Total Mom Pitch Contest! If you have a great business idea, or could use some help with your small business start up, you need to apply. The contest will take place on day 1 (February 9th) and will give 5 chosen applicants an opportunity to present a 5-7 minute pitch to a panel of successful entrepreneurs. The winner will receive a cash prize, as well as complimentary services from the amazing panel of judges. This is an incredible prize, so make sure to enter & let your mompreneur friends know, so they can apply for a chance to WIN!

Tickets to The Total Mom Show are on Sale, but don’t wait too grab yours! There are a limited number of VIP BAGS left + Limited spots available in the Face Forward beauty Lounge. Use Code @with_care15 for 15% off your ticket.

After telling you all these amazing things, I thought it was only fair to give away some tickets! I’ll be doing a giveaway for a pair of tickets (valued at over $100!) on my Instagram, so head over and ENTER for your chance to Win! Plus come to Movies for Mommies at the Humber Cinema on Monday January 14th (Aquaman) & 21st (The Upside) to be entered for a chance to WIN Tickets to The Total Mom Show. Movie starts at 1pm and doors open at 12:30pm.

Hope to see you on Monday at the movies, and at The Total Mom Show in February.

- Care

Care Sinclair 12/20/18 Care Sinclair 12/20/18

How To Use A Ring Sling With A Newborn

Getting the hang of a ring sling can take some practice, but they’re such great carriers once you do. I love ring slings because they’re super lightweight and fold up small making them perfect for tossing in my diaper bag or purse, so I’m always prepared while we’re out and about. Kind of essential with 4 kids ;)

Join me and my 5 week old baby Freddy to learn how to use a ring sling safely and comfortably. In this video I’m featuring a linen ring sling by Potter & Pehar. I absolutely love the soft neutral colour of this Elora sling, but to be honest it’s hard to choose a fav from their gorgeous collection. Potter & Pehar products are beautifully designed to simplify motherhood, and I love that they’re all made locally in Toronto. Plus the business is owned and run by two kick ass women (Shelley & Tina), who are always available for customer support via email, facebook, and instagram. I have several Potter & Pehar slings, and have personally used them with my babes and while teaching at my monthly Free Community Babywearing Drop In. This is definitely a biz that feels good to support. You can use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% off Potter & Pehar.

Watch: how to use a ring sling with a newborn

I hope you enjoyed my video. Please comment below with any questions, and let me know if you have any topics you would like me to cover in the future. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay up to date of all of my new videos.

- Care

In This Post:

“Elora” Ring Sling: Potter & Pehar *Use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% Off | How To Thread A Ring Sling Video

*The information in this video is meant to help you learn about safe babywearing. There are many ways to safely use a carrier, but I demonstrate how I typically teach ring sling use. Please always refer to your particular baby carrier manual to ensure proper and safe use. The information provided does not constitute individual advice or consultation and should not be used as such.

Care Sinclair 11/13/18 Care Sinclair 11/13/18

Preparing Our Home For Baby 4 - Freddy’s Nursery Reveal

Baby 4 is on the way any day now (Edited to note that baby Freddy arrived on Thursday evening, just 5 hours after these photos were taken), and surprisingly this is the first time I’ve actually prepared an official nursery. I guess you could say that I want to soak up all I can with this last baby of ours.

For our little guys room I set out to create a clean and simple space with a calming colour palate and a little farmhouse feel. After weeks of working on it I’m so excited to finally show you the finished room…and in reality it’s not 100% done. I still need something beautiful and safe to accent the wall above the crib eg. won’t kill a baby if it falls on them ;) Please let me know if you have any ideas!

When I started this nursery I knew one of my main priorities was a comfortable place to sit, rock, nurse, and cuddle our babe. For our last 3 kids I have had less than ideal chairs, so getting a custom chair from Off Your Rocker was basically my dream come true. I love that this rocker was made locally in Belleville Ontario and can be totally customized to suit your preference for style, wood stain, and fabric, all at a reasonable price. I decided on the Jamestown Wingback in Battleship Grey Twill with Walnut stain and couldn’t be happier with my choice. Not only is it beautiful, it’s so comfortable! A perfect place to spend a few thousand hours over the early years of this baby’s life ;) If you’re in the market for a chair check out Off Your Rocker, and make sure when you place your order to choose "Store Pickup" & Mention With Care to Receive FREE SHIPPING to the GTA!

I wanted the nursery to have a little bit of a rustic feel so my husband and I did DIY shiplap on one accent wall and painted it white to match the rest of the room. It’s subtle, but I love the way it looks with our spindle style crib.

We were in desperate need of some fresh linens for baby 4. After 7+ years of use, our old ones were all completely done and ready for retirement. Keeping our baby’s space and the air he breathes as safe and clean as possible is very important, so I chose a beautiful organic waterproof crib mattress protector & organic crib sheets from my favourite online source, Organic Lifestyle. They have some absolutely gorgeous, eco-friendly and sustainable products for around the home. Perfect for holiday gift giving! Use code care for 15% Off your order from Organic Lifestyle.

I was set on farmhouse ticking curtains (stripped fabric seen above) but couldn’t find any that worked for our budget and time line, so I set out to make my own. I sewed blackout lined curtains and a matching crib skirt from beautiful classic nickel ticking fabric I found locally at Tonic Living.

I also refinished my childhood nursery dresser by sanding and painting it and adding new porcelain knobs. It was a pretty quick project and gave it a totally fresh look on a small budget.

Instead of going for lots of traditional wall decor I decided to decorate this small space with greenery and beautiful baby stuff, like our favourite treasures and my ring sling collection.

I absolutely love having my slings easily accessible on these gorgeous locally made wooden wall knobs. Perfect to grab and go whenever we need.

I’m so happy with how this space has turned out. I know it will be a calm and soothing space for us to care for baby Freddy. Even with the day-to-day chaos that is our busy home. Check out all the details for products featured in my nursery reveal below, and please comment with any questions.

- Care

In The Post:

Rocking Chair: Off Your Rocker *Choose "Store Pickup" & Mention With Care to Receive FREE Shipping to the GTA | Photos: Anchor Studio *Get 10% off when you mention With Care at Booking | Organic waterproof crib mattress protector & organic crib sheet: Organic Lifestyle *Get 15% off with code care | Care’s Maternity Clothing sponsored by Canadian rental box company The Sprout Collection: *Use Code Care20off for 20% off | Curtain & Crib Skirt Fabric: Tonic Living | Dresser Knobs: Overstock.ca | Rug: Overstock.ca | Dresser Paint Colour: Behr Frozen Pond | Wooden Wall Knobs: JB + DG | Black & Pink Ring Slings: Potter & Pehar *Use Code WITHCARE10 for 10% Off | Sand Ring Sling: Jr Foxes | Umbra Prisma Wall Decorations: Amazon.ca | Wooden Rattles: Bonjour Baby Baskets | Patouche Baby Bonnet: Little Zen One *Use Code WITHCARE for $15 off your purchase of $100 or more | “You Are Loved” Print: ATTN2Detail Designs | White Round Metal Mirror & Heart Marquee Light: HomeSense | White Wood Shelves, Wickers Planters, Hanging Planter & Baskets: Ikea | Herbal Sitz Bath & Lavender Mineral Soak: Tenth Moon

Care Sinclair 10/25/18 Care Sinclair 10/25/18

Packing For The Hospital - Labour & Birth: Video + FREE Downloadable Packing List

As I’m preparing for the arrival of baby 4 I thought I would share a New Video about Packing for Labour & Birth. As a Midwife & Childbirth Educator I am always asked about what to pack. Although not all of my clients deliver in hospital, everyone needs a bag ready, just in case. I suggest getting it out of the way early so you can feel prepared. Having your bag packed by around 36 weeks is ideal.

It can be tempting to pack a ton of stuff to take to the hospital, but in my experience less is more. Remember, you’ll need to bring home everything you pack, plus a new baby, and you’ll be recovering from giving birth. If plans change and you need to stay at the hospital for a few extra days, friends and family can be called for extra supplies, or your partner can take a quick trip home.

Watch My Video & Get My FREE Downloadable Packing List

download my free hospital packing list

I hope this simple list helps you feel a bit more prepared for the birth of your little one. Wishing you all the best in your labour, birth & beyond!

- Care

In The Post:

Care Sinclair 10/16/18 Care Sinclair 10/16/18

Self Care In Pregnancy: The Ultimate Indulgence - Ste. Anne’s Spa

As a busy mom of 3 (with my 4th on the way) it’s a rare treat to be able to pack my bags and head out of the city for a little R&R. When I do, I’m always reminded just how essential it is. Life as a parent can get so overwhelming. Taking a day to disconnect, breathe in the country air, and indulge your body, mind and spirit, is always worth it. My absolute favourite place, that's not too far from home, is Ste. Anne’s Spa. Located in the beautiful farmland of Grafton Ontario, the entire estate at Ste. Anne’s is a dream. I have visited a few times and have never been disappointed. The atmosphere, food, staff, and spa services are absolutely top notch.

During this trip I was joined by 3 of my lifelong girlfriends and it really was the perfect day together. My friends who had never experienced Ste. Anne’s were absolutely blown away by everything. We enjoyed a delicious and decadent lunch and high tea.

Took a scenic walk to the barns to get some fresh air and see the horses.

Enjoyed time in the heated pool (typically open until Canadian Thanksgiving).

And of course indulged in some amazing spa services. Since I’m 7 months pregnant I decided to try out a few of Ste. Anne’s signature treatments that are safe in pregnancy. I know for some pregnant mamas the idea of going to a new place and having a massage during pregnancy can be concerning. Ste. Anne’s does offer prenatal massage, which is generally safe in pregnancy (speak to your health care provider if you are a high risk pregnancy or have any concerns) but I thought I would highlight a few of their other safe treatments. The 2 treatments I had were absolutely amazing, and totally provided the relaxation I was dreaming of.

Essential Oil Scalp Rejuvenation

I have to start this by saying that I LOVE having my head touched. I wish someone would play with my hair every day. Now I know some people absolutely hate having their heads touched (I don’t judge you, but I also don’t understand you ;)…so please note this is not a service you will enjoy unless you like scalp massage.

During this 30 minute rejuvenating scalp treatment my hair and scalp was massaged with a delicious smelling essential oil/coconut oil mix, followed by brushing it through my long locks. They recommend you leave the oil on for 2-12 hours after your treatment, so this can be a messy affair, but the end result was the softest, shiniest hair ever, and some serious stress relief.

Firming Mud Facial

This treatment was such a perfect mix for a pregnant mama. It started off with a foot soak and scrub that felt amazing on my tired achy legs and feet, and was followed by an incredible firming mud facial. As someone who has very sensitive skin I love that the Ste. Anne’s line of skin care products are so natural and don’t irritate my face at all. The moor mud was so luxurious and it was a lovely treat to receive a soothing arm, hand and scalp massage while it was soaking in. By the time it was done I was in a totally blissed out state.

Every time I come to Ste. Anne’s I leave dreaming about when I can return. I would say that’s a good sign. Maybe next time I’ll convince the hubby to come with me and we’ll stay over in one of their beautiful rooms or cottages. A girl can dream.

If you’re interested in planning a trip to this little slice of heaven, make sure you sign up for the Ste. Anne’s email newsletter. You’ll receive updates on special offers at the spa, and hear about upcoming seasonal events. Whatever season you visit in, you’re sure to have an amazing time.

- Care

In The Post:

Ste. Anne’s Spa | Care’s Maternity Swim Suit: Amazon

Care Sinclair 9/10/18 Care Sinclair 9/10/18

New Mom Project Donation Collections Are Back! - Check Out The Schedule

Fall is here and it's officially time to clean out all the extra stuff you have laying around your house before winter arrives. If you have any new or gently used baby clothes or gear to donate please come by one of my monthly donation collections for the New Mom Project.

Supporting the New Mom Project means helping families in our own city who desperately need assistance in securing resources for their baby. All clients of the New Mom Project are referred by their Prenatal Primary Health Care Provider (eg. Midwife, Family Dr, OB) and are genuinely in need, so you can feel good knowing that your donations are really making a difference.

Please check out the details below for a full schedule of donation collections, and to find out what is, and is not, accepted.

Upcoming Donation Dates: Please email care@with-care.ca for the residential drop off address (Jane & Annette). **Please note: With Care can not provide pick-up services or accomodate alternative drop off times**

Thursday September 13th, 2018 12pm-7pm
Thursday October 11th, 2018 12pm-7pm
Thursday November 8th, 2018 12pm-7pm
Tuesday January 15th, 2019 12pm-7pm
Tuesday February 19th, 2019 12pm-7pm
Tuesday March 19th, 2019 12pm-7pm
Tuesday April 16th, 2019 12pm-7pm
Tuesday May 21st, 2019 12pm-7pm
Tuesday June 18th, 2019 12pm-7pm

Items Accepted for Donation:

New & gently used baby clothing from 0-12 month sizes (including onesies, sleepers, pants, dresses, socks, shoes, snowsuits & hats)
Baby blankets
Baby carriers (in good working order, without recalls)
Newborn & Size 1 diapers (open packages accepted)
Wipes (only unopened packages)
Baby bath products (only unopened packages)
Small infant toys (0-12 months)
New bottles & formula (only unopened packages)
Bumbo Seats/Bouncy Seats/Play Mats/Baths
Highchairs *please check recalls
Strollers *please check recalls
Cribs *No drop sides, please check recalls
Nursing Pillows

Although we would love to accept all donations, The New Mom Project is a volunteer based organization and is only capable of handling donations for infants 0-12 months. Please check this list before making a donation.

*Items Not Accepted!

No maternity clothes
No toddler/preschooler clothing, gear or toys
No used car seats
No used breastpumps or open bottles
No opened wipes packages
No opened or expired formula

Please Contact The New Mom Project Directly with any questions about alternative donation collection times or special pick ups.

Thanks for your generosity! Hope to see you at one of my upcoming collections.

- Care

Care Sinclair 8/7/18 Care Sinclair 8/7/18

Top 3 Pregnancy Exercises With Nikki Bergen Of The Belle Method

Staying active in pregnancy is so important for your overall health and wellness, but expectant moms are often scared because they don't know what's safe and effective. Enter Nikki Bergen, Creator of The Belle Method, a program that combines Pilates, Yoga, and Dance inspired fitness, and is geared specifically toward women. These exercises are designed to help pregnant and postpartum women stay connected to their pelvic floor and minimize diastasic recti (separated abdominal muscles).

Nikki and her team offer classes and private sessions across the GTA, plus a series of amazing online programs focusing on safe exercises for the 1st, 2nd & 3rd trimester of pregnancy, as well as the 4th trimester, the postpartum period. So she seemed like the perfect person to go over some safe exercises in pregnancy with.

Watch our video to learn Nikki's Top 3 Pregnancy Exercises that can be done in the comfort of your own home. Plus don't forget to Subscribe to my channel to stay up to date of all of my upcoming videos.