Easter Mini Sessions at Movies for Mommies Humber Cinema - Register Now!

Easter is coming up, so you know what that means? Time for some ridiculously cute pics of babies in bunny ears! Anchor Studio Photography will be joining me at Movies for Mommies for 2 weeks to offer complimentary Easter Mini Photo Sessions. Appointments will be scheduled between 12pm-1pm on each day, April 1st & 15th at the Humber Cinemas (2442 Bloor St W. at Jane Station). Photo sessions are free and attendees have the option to purchase photos for $25/digital image (discounted packages for more photos are also vailable). **PLEASE NOTE: Sessions are reserved for Movie Attendees ONLY**

Space is very limited for these sessions, so please email care@with-care.ca ASAP to request a spot. Don't forget to let me know which day you prefer, April 1st or 15th. If the date you prefer is full I will offer you a time on the other day, or a spot on the wait list. These sessions fill up very fast, so please don't wait!

*The movie being screened April 1st & 15th are still TBD. If you would like to receive notice of our weekly screenings and special events please join my Movies for Mommies Humber Cinemas Newsletter.

Here are a few of my favourite Easter photos from last year’s session with Anchor Studio.

Don't forget to email me care@with-care.ca to request a spot and let me know which day you prefer, April 1st or 15th. Hope to see you on Monday at the Movies!

- Care

Valentine Mini Sessions at Movies For Mommies Humber - Register NOW!

It’s that time of year again. Time to celebrate all things LOVE! Since I know so many of you can't resist adorable baby pics, I am excited to announce that Anchor Studio Photography will be joining me at Movies for Mommies for 2 weeks to offer complimentary Valentine's Mini Photo Sessions. Appointments will be scheduled between 12pm-1pm on each day (January 28th & February 4th) at the Humber Cinemas (2442 Bloor St W. at Jane Station). Photo sessions are free and attendees have the option to purchase photos for $25/digital image (additional packages available). *PLEASE NOTE: Sessions are reserved for Movie Attendees Only.

Space is very limited for these sessions, so please email care@with-care.ca ASAP to request a spot. Don't forget to let me know which day you prefer, January 28th or February 4th. If the date you prefer is full I will offer you a time on the other day, or a spot on the wait list. These sessions fill up very fast, so please don't wait!

*The movies being screened January 28th & February 4th are still TBD. If you would like to receive notice of our weekly screenings and special events directly to your inbox, please sign up for my Movies for Mommies Humber Cinemas Newsletter.

Here are a few of my favourite Valentine's photos from Penny’s session last year with Anchor Studio. Swoon!

Don't forget to email me care@with-care.ca to request a spot and let me know which day you prefer, January 28th or February 4th. Hope to see you on Monday at the Movies! 

- Care

3 Things You Need to Know About Breastfeeding Beyond 6 Months + Register for The March Breastfeeding Cafe

Taya & Baby Mabel photo credit: four bees photography

Breastfeeding isn't always straightforward, so it's essential to have amazing support along the way. I find that there tends to be a lot of support for parents with newborns, but with older babies, breastfeeding questions are often overlooked. That's why I'm so excited to have Taya Griffin joining me as guest speaker at the March Breastfeeding Cafe, to answer questions about breastfeeding babies of all ages.

Taya is an incredible Lactation Consultant and mom of 2 beautiful girls. She is my go-to referral for all breastfeeding related issues because she is so gentle and caring, but also incredibly knowledgeable. Taya offers amazing Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes at West End Mamas (Register for her next session May 29th), as well as Private In-Home Education & Support, and sees clients at Kidcrew Medical & Dental Clinic.

As a little sneak peak to the amazing advice parents will receive at the Cafe, Taya has provided me with answers to 3 of the questions she gets asked most often about nursing an older baby and returning to work. This is amazing advice and so important for parents to know, so make sure you read it below.

If you want to join Me and Taya at the Breastfeeding Cafe at West End Mamas in March please Register Here. Remaining space is extremely limited, so don't wait! (Edited to Note that the Cafe is now Full! Please email care@with-care.ca to be placed on the waitlist.) *See post for full details

3 Things You Need To Know About Nursing Beyond 6 Months - By Taya Griffin

"As a Lactation Consultant who works in a clinic and community setting, I see babies of all different ages, and answer questions from mothers about nursing well beyond the first and second year. Breastfeeding an older baby is fun, as they are full of personality and their own special quirks, but it definitely comes with its own set of questions that are very different from the newborn stage! Here are three of the top questions that I get asked about nursing an older baby."

1) Do I need to pump when I go back to work?

"Should you be returning to work before the 1 year mark the answer is yes.  You will need to pump each time that baby feeds while you are away from them.  However the luxury that many Canadian mothers have of staying home for a year (and now 18 months for some mamas!) means that upon a return to the workforce there is no need to pump.  Baby will likely want to breastfeed as soon as they see you, and throughout their time with you, but while you are away your breasts will figure out that they are no longer needed. If mother feels some discomfort in the first few weeks of returning to work, hand expressing off a little milk will help to relieve the breasts until they get used to the time away from baby."

2) If I am still breastfeeding will my baby need cow’s milk? 

"This is one of the best aspects of breastfeeding beyond the year mark.  If your baby is breastfeeding at least three times a day there is no need to worry about them receiving any other kind of milk.  Between your breastmilk and a well- balanced diet they will receive more than enough of the vitamins and minerals that they need."

3) My baby won’t take a bottle – how will they drink liquid if I am not around?

"Health Canada’s new guidelines recommend that babies are introduced to a cup at the six month mark. Drinking from a cup, not a bottle, is a life-long skill that we all need and is better for the teeth and palate.  As a transition I have helped many families move from breast to doidy cup (a cup with a small spout) to an open faced cup with a lot of success." 

Thanks for this great advice Taya. For all of the local West End parents, don't forget to Register for the Cafe so you can ask Taya all of your questions in person. Plus we'll be doing fun Giveaway at the Cafe for some delicious Booby Boon Lactation Cookies. You can also get in touch with Taya directly via Email or call her at 416-996-0321 with any questions. 

- Care 

Holiday Mini Sessions With Anchor Studio at Movies For Mommies - REGISTER NOW!

With the holiday season fast approaching it's time to capture some adorable pics of your little elves. Anchor Studio Photography will be joining me at Movies for Mommies for the next 2 weeks to offer complimentary Holiday Mini Photo Sessions. Appointments will be scheduled between 12pm-1pm on each day (December 4th & December 11th). Photo sessions are free and attendees have the option to purchase photos for $25/digital image. Space is very limited for these sessions, so please email care@with-care.ca to request a spot. Don't forget to let me know which day you prefer December 4th or 11th. If the date you prefer is full I will offer you a time on the other day, or a spot on the wait list. These sessions fill up very fast, so please don't wait!

Here are a few of my favourite holiday photos that Anchor Studio have taken of my kiddos in the past. 

This Monday December 4th we will be screening the beautiful film Wonder starring Julia Roberts, Owen Wilson & Jacob Tremblay at 1pm (doors open at 12pm). This is one you definitely don't want to miss. Watch the trailer here. Plus join us to enter our weekly draw for a chance to WIN some awesome prizes. 

Hope to see you on Monday at the Movies! 

- Care 

*Please Note: The movie for December 11th is still TBD. If you would like to receive notice of our weekly screenings and special events please join the Movies for Mommies Humber Cinemas Newsletter

Modern Mama Social - GIVEAWAY! Enter for a Chance to WIN 2 Tickets + Prize!

I don't know about most of you mamas out there, but getting out for a night out with friends is a rare event for me. So when I heard that my friends Freda (owner of Bridge the Bump) and Christine (owner of Olilibaby ) were hosting a fun evening out I knew I had to score a ticket. The Modern Mama Social isn't just any typical night out. These ladies have thought of it all, right down to the dream mom venue...Anthropologie of course ;) 

Guests will receive a beautiful swag bag filled with sample products and discounts from local vendor, access to amazing Guest speakers and Incredible Vendors (See below). Plus delicious food from PaintBox Catering & Bistro Company, and limited complimentary wine and non-alcoholic drinks. 

Since this sounds like such a great night out, I thought it was only fair that I share some tickets with my readers. Check out the details below and Enter for a chance to Win a Pair of Tickets for you and your BFF to attend The Modern Mama Social. Plus get an adorable handmade bib from Made by Song that you can pick up at the Social. 

Here are some details about the evening...

Modern Mama Social Guest Speakers & Workshops

Shira from Stop Drop & Makeup will be talking about "the 5 minute face," helping us choose the right lipstick for the season, and offering mini makeovers.

Roselyn of Style Forage will be showing us capsule wardrobes and the "wardrobe essentials to take you from office to dinner". Plus answering any style questions you have. 

Linda Tommasino, Registered Nutritionist from The Wholesome Kitchen, will be inspiring everyone to cook well, eat well and nourish well, even during the busy holiday season. She will have a variety of mini nutrition talks, plus be available for your nutrition questions.

Becka Orgill Toner, Life & Career Coach from Ignite Your Inner Spark works with women across North America to help them navigate the complexities of career and motherhood with greater fulfillment. She will be helping us Ignite Our Inner Spark

Modern Mama Social Vendors & Specials

With a curated group of local vendors and some amazing Exclusive Offers this event is the perfect place to pick out gifts for the holidays...and maybe a little something for yourself. You deserve it! After all, we're usually the ones doing all the spoiling. Here are a few of the vendors who are planning to be there. 

Henkaa Designs will be providing an amazing prize at The Modern Mama Social of 1 Monogram Multiway Bag with Travel Change Pad + $150 gift card to Henkaa. Total value $250! 

Bridge the Bump will have their coat extensions for you to try on just in time for winter. I love that these are locally designed and made in Toronto. Don't sacrifice the comfort and style of your own winter jacket, plus stay nice and cozy with your bump or baby. (full review) *Bridge the Bump will have an Exclusive Offer on Grey Coat extensions. For this evening only, purchase a grey coat extension for $75 (regularly $90). 

Olilibaby will be helping save parent's sanity with their adorable and functional Mitten Clips. Perfect stocking stuffers! Get them for a Special Price of 2 sets for $20 at the Modern Mama Social. 

Made by Song will be selling her beautiful handmade bibs, taggie toys, rattles and teethers. Plus Kathleen from Made by Song will be launching a new bib design at the show. *Special Offer on Bibs at the Social 2 for $20. One Made by Song Bib is included in this GIVEAWAY! 

Bonnefetti will be showing of their gorgeous paper products including their one of a kind wine tags, and featuring a beautiful new collection of holiday cards at a special price! A perfect compliment to your holiday gifting. 

If you want to join us for this fun night out on the town Enter NOW for a chance to WIN a Pair of tickets to The Modern Mama Social ($90 value) + an adorable handmade Bib from Made By Song ($15 value). 

To Enter simply comment below with your name and email address, or alternatively you can comment below and submit your email address to care@with-care.ca for entry (You must comment below to be entered via the blog). Plus, make sure to check out my Instagram feed for additional ways to enter! Contest is open to anyone in the Greater Toronto Area who is 18+ and closes Wednesday November 22nd at 11pm EST. A winner will be chosen at random and contacted within 24 hours. Good Luck!

If you don't Win tickets you can Purchase Tickets Here for $45 per attendee. **If you purchase tickets between Thursday November 23rd and end of day Saturday November 25th $2 of your ticket price will be donated to the ShoeBox Project. So don't wait! Get your tickets. Space is limited and this is sure to be a lovely evening.

Care 

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

Join Me At The Bump To Baby Show, Fall 2017 + Ticket GIVEAWAY!!

I'm so excited to be taking part in The Bump to Baby Show's 1st ever fall show on Saturday October 21st at The Riverdale Hub. I always love the spring show because it's such a great group of finely curated local businesses, that genuinely love to help and support expectant and new families in our communities. The Bump to Baby Show is a much slower pace show than most giant baby shows out there, but that's another element that I really enjoy. As a participating business I love being able to connect with guests, and give them an opportunity to ask questions and learn about what I offer. 

This fall's show has an incredible Marketplace, Kids Activities, a fun Photo Booth, Swags Bags, Prenatal Yoga and amazing Guest Speakers. 

Yours truly will be speaking with The Big Carrot at 2pm about Healthy Snacks for Busy Families. Join me for some live food demos and healthy recipes for pregnancy, starting solids and your growing kiddos. Plus some awesome Swag and Giveaways!  Pre-Register for my talk Here

Advance Tickets to the show are $5 and come with a complimentary cotton tote filled with amazing swag. Admission at the Door is $10 per adult **Please Note: Bumps, Babies, Kids & Grandparents are FREE! Add The Bump to Baby Show to your calendar on October 21st and buy your tickets now! 

If you have a baby on the way, or a young family in tow, this is the show to attend. Don't miss out! ENTER for a Chance to WIN a pair of tickets to The Bump to Baby Show.

To Enter simply comment below with your name and email address, or alternatively you may comment below and submit your email address to care@with-care.ca for entry. Plus make sure to check out our Facebook page & Instagram feed for 2 more ways to enter!  Contest is open to anyone 25+ and closes Saturday September 30th at 11pm EST. A winner will be chosen at random and contacted within 24 hours. Good Luck!

Learn More + Buy Advance Tickets to Save 50%

Hope to see you at the show!

Care xo

Potter & Pehar Sling + Sip Social - Register Now! (Free Event With Care)

Babywearing is a lifesaver for so many parents, but only when you know how to use your carrier safely and comfortably. As a Babywearing Educator I love helping families learn how to make the most of their carriers. That's why I'm so excited to join Potter & Pehar at their upcoming Sling + Sip Social to offer a FREE Ring Sling 101 Workshop. (Full Details Below *Space is very limited so don't wait to register. RSVP to hello@potterandpehar.com)

Ring slings are one of my favourite carriers from infancy right through toddlerhood. In the early days they are perfect for our little babes who need to be kept snug up on our chest. As our baby grows and develops, ring slings are ideal for quick trips using a hip carry. Ring slings are great because they fold up nice and small for travel, can be put on and adjusted relatively quickly, are lightweight for hot weather, and are great for wearing to fancier events. I have worn all of our babies to weddings in my ring slings. I also love ring slings because they are one of the easiest carriers to nurse in. 

Even with all of these amazing qualities I find that ring slings often get a bad wrap. I have spoken to lots of parents at my community events and on social media who just couldn't seem to make their ring sling work. They often reported pain, or felt insecure about their baby's position. Neither of which are any fun. The majority of the time some minor adjustments to the carrier would make a huge difference, and impact both the wearer's comfort, and the baby's comfort and security. Learning the basics of how to use a ring sling properly is essential to your long term enjoyment and safety while babywearing with one. 

If you're a local parent join me at the Potter & Pehar Sling + Sip Social on Thursday August 17th to learn all about ring slings. This FREE event takes place from 11am-2pm at 1830 Bloor St W (3rd floor event room).

Pop by to enjoy some light refreshments and get your photo taken by Jamie Mack Photography for $15. Come and check out Potter & Pehar's beautiful collection of Canadian made ring slings. As a special gift to all attendees they will be offering sale prices on their end of season slings. *Please Note: No purchase is necessary to attend this event. 

*Remaining Space is very limited so please don't wait to register. Email hello@potterandpehar.com to reserve your spot. Feel free to ask any questions below in the comments 

Happy Babywearing!

Care 

In this post:

Potter & Pehar Berkeley Ring Sling    |    Tiny Trendsetter Saltwater Sandals     |     H&M Care's Dress 

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