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DIY Mobile: Multiculturalism in Motherhood through Exploration and Creation

By Gabriela Tellier

Like many Alberta mamas, I am an immigrant mother. I arrived in Edmonton when I was 17 years old and was welcomed to a beautiful city, to a beautiful province and country, that I now call home. Today, I am the mother of two young children and am privileged to introduce to them the culture of their homeland, as well as that of their mother’s. My children are Canadian, and they are also Peruvian.

We recently celebrated Canada Day, a day that is very special for all Canadians, those who were born here, and those who arrived later in life. Inspired by that, I share this DIY. As a mother raising bicultural children, I am always looking for creative and fun ways to teach my children about both cultures. By getting the kids outside to explore, and making art together, I embrace multiculturalism in motherhood and honor the land that gave a home to my children and to the culture that came before them.

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Spring Fashion for the Busy Mom

Top Spring Looks

I feel like we may have by-passed Spring and headed straight into summer around Alberta…. This sudden change of seasons always seems to create some inner panic in me every year. It’s suddenly hot during the day, colder in the morning and evening and not totally appropriate to wear full on summer clothes yet BUT I’m totally over my winter threads. The panic is real, guys. This year, I’ll admit, I do feel a little more prepared. Maybe it’s because winter lasted so damn long this time around. None-the-less, I thought I would share my favourite spring fashion ideas with you.

1- The Kimono

I was rocking this item last year as well, and thank goodness it seems here to stay! My reasons for loving the kimono are: it covers you up when you need it (spring) and it makes you look put together in an instant when all you are really doing is throwing it on over your yoga pants and a tank top. The best.

Spring fashion trends

A selection of my personal Kimonos from Hot Dame (Sweet Boutique), Belle & Bliss Boutique & The Hudson’s Bay.

2- The Flats

As tempted as we are to wear sandals, some mornings are just not quite warm enough yet and nothing is worse than stepping in some wet, cold, mushy spring grass…. Investing in a pair of easy to slip on flats either in a sporty style or with a more dressed up flair will take you from the playground to a meeting to dinner, all without having to tie them or do up annoying straps. Heels, you say? No mama has time for running around in heels. None.

Spring fashion trends

Esprit flats from a clothing swap!

3- The Leather Jacket

Leather jackets can be difficult to wear in Alberta. It’s usually way too cold in the winter for them and then by full on summer you are sweating just thinking about wearing one. That’s why I wear my leather jackets as much as possible during spring. It’s so easy to throw on over jeans, a dress, even with yoga pants. No, I never stop wearing yoga pants #sorrynotsorry.

Leather Jacket for spring

BCBG Leather Jacket, yet another gem I acquired from a recent clothing swap!

4- The Mini Backpack

When this trend started, I hated it. It reminded me of the 90’s when girls would wear them. I guess it just made me feel old? I broke down and got one and I am now eating my words. A leather (or leather-like) mini backpack is like the crossbody purse, but even cooler. You look trendy, but you are actually just allowing yourself to be hands free and a super multi-tasker. This style is really difficult to pull off with a pouffy winter jacket, so I think it’s a great spring item.

Mini Backpack

My first adult mini backpack from Miniso.

5- A New Pair of Jeans

I’ve been coveting the casual and cool look of ripped jeans over winter, but who wants holes in their pants when its minus 20? Now that we’ve got some warmth out there I am loving this look.

Jeans for Spring

Spring denim from Grace & Lace

6- The Jumpsuit

I never, ever thought I would take the jumpsuit plunge. I tried one on recently and it was love at first fit. I feel like the jumpsuit is the new maxi dress. Once you find one that works for your body type, it’s so easy to wear! Note, I said jumpsuit, not romper. Spring gives you a chance to try the one piece trend with full pants first. I’ll report back to you if I ever get brave enough for the romper, haha.

A jumpsuit is a new spring fashion must have!

Chris, one of our gorgeous founders, rocking her jumpsuit from H&M.

7- The Swimsuit

Ok. Ok. This one isn’t exactly spring. BUT warm Alberta sun does get you thinking of beach season. And, we still take our kids swimming to the pool, so there. No one wants to be rushed once they realize they have to go to the beach and last year’s suit is just a little worn out. So, start looking now. Selection is at its best and you might need time for this one.

Spring is the time to start looking for the perfect bathing suit!

This sexy little one piece is from The Hudson’s Bay

I hope this helps you sort out some quick and easy ideas for updating your wardrobe into spring/summer/whatever season it decides to be today. If you want some more ideas, visit us at St. Albert Centre on May 16th where we (The Alberta Mamas) will be sharing some of our favourite curated Spring looks at the Denim and Dresses event!

Let us know, what’s your favourite new Spring fashion item?

Every Day Girl

 

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5 Things I Learnt About Growing Out My Grey Hair

Those aren’t strands of grey hair, they’re strands of glitter.

There are many things I learnt about growing out my grey hair. I thought it was going to be all about buying purple shampoo and looking cool like Stacy London. While it’s not been hard, it’s been an eye-opener into other peoples opinions on how I should treat my hair, but also really very cool seeing my hair make the transition from dark brown to grey. Read more

Get Ready for Pink Shirt Day with London Drugs (+ Giveaway)!

Pink Shirt Day is February 28

Have you heard of Pink Shirt Day? On February 28th show your support and take a stand against cyberbullying by wearing pink!

Get your Pink Shirt Day gear at London Drugs

There’s a few big reasons why I can get behind Pink Shirt Day. Here’s Why:

  • If you think cyberbullying isn’t a thing, think again. 1 in 5 kids are affected by it. (source: pinkshirtday.ca)
  • It is impossible to escape/avoid this type of bullying. In the “old” days we could go home after a rough day and at least get away from a bullying situation that was taking place at school. With technology and connections everywhere, this is so much more difficult.
  • We all know that bullying, of any kind, is devastating and can have major impacts for the victim. I was bullied by a particular boy in elementary school. 25 years later I can tell you exactly what the bully said to me, how he made me feel and how no one did anything about it.
  • Fundraising, awareness and net proceeds from official Pink Shirt Day shirts, texting gloves and other accessories (sold exclusively at London Drugs) goes to support youth anti-bullying programs- including local Boys and Girls Clubs. Previous to my becoming a mom, I worked for Boys and Girls Clubs and I can tell you first hand the amount of work that goes into these programs and that they have the power to change a child’s life!
  • Pink, it’s my favourite colour:)

Purchase your official Pink Shirt Day t-shirt, texting gloves & more from London Drugs and wear it on February 28th to stand up to cyberbullying! Net proceeds of the official t-shirts will support youth anti-bullying programs. This year, Pink Shirt Day is encouraging everyone- no matter what age- to think twice before posting something negative online, and instead use the internet to spread kindness. Nice needs no filter!

Get your Pink Shirt Day gear at London Drugs

We’ve teamed up with London Drugs to support Pink Shirt Day and we’ve got a $50 Gift Card for one lucky winner! Enter below via Rafflecopter. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Every Day Girl

 

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Alberta Mamas Holiday Guide 2017

Tis the season to be inspired! Alberta Mamas has put together our 2017 Holiday Guide. Enjoy our suggestions for gift giving, seasonal recipes, holiday experiences, and enjoying the spirit of the season with your family. Check back often as we continue to build on to this guide.

See the Alberta Mamas Holiday Guide 

Photo Credit: Rayne or Shine Photography

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Shopping Locally in Grande Prairie

We all love the idea of shopping locally, but often we forget how important it is to actually go out there and spend locally! There are so many local businesses in Grande Prairie, but we thought we’d make a list of all the places you can shop locally in Grande Prairie this holiday season.

Spending money in a local business isn’t just about supporting a local family, but it’s good for the economy! It’s known as the Multiplier Effect and Wikipedia can go through the details for you here, but essentially it means that when you spend your money in your community with a locally owned and operated business it circulates the wealth back into your community. It’s a win-win. Really, who doesn’t love their locally owned coffee-shops and boutiques!

In no particular order, here are some places we’ll be shopping this holiday season.

Kids

Cute as a Bugs Ear
Web: https://cute-as-a-bugs-ear.myshopify.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cute-As-A-Bugs-Ear-Childrens-Clothing-Inc-
Address: #104 – 10605 West Side Dr.

What to shop for: Anything kids!

Mini and Kind
Web: https://www.miniandkind.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miniandkind/
Address: Online only

What to shop for: Organic and ethically made baby clothing and toys. We LOVE this little fawn.

What to shop for: ALL the headbands. Every. Single. One.

With Love

Address: 11500 100 St
What to shop for: All you need for the sporty kid (or grownup on your list)

Women’s Clothing

Sole Addiction
Address: 9907 100 Ave
What to shop for: SHOES!!!
Forbes & Friends
Address: 9918a 100 Avenue
What to shop for:  Lots to shop for in this local boutique. Women’s clothes, jewelry, and accessories (unique scarves, bags and even fun rubber boots) as well as lots of gifts for those in your life that love local art.
House of Spades
Address: 9908 100ave
What to shop for: House of Spades carries a more modern line of clothes with brands like Scotch and Soda, Matt and Nat and Wooden Ship Knits.

House of Spades

What to shop for:  Blanket scarves, ponchos and Eliasz and Ella jewelry

Experience Gift Ideas

Art Gallery of Grande Prairie
Web: http://aggp.ca/
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ArtGalleryofGP/
Address: 9839 103 Avenue #103

What to shop for: Memberships to the art gallery are an inexpensive gift for an art lover or for a unique gift for those that love experiences over things.

 Local Handmade

Fox and Chaos Naturals
Web: http://foxandchaos.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FoxandChaos/

What to shop for: Handmade organic bath and beauty products such as bubble bath, lotions and lip balms, perfect for our Northern Albertan climate.

Rustic Little Lamb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rustic-little-lamb-120637391932907/

What to shop for: Custom homemade signs for your home.

Timber + Gray Design Co.
Web: https://timberandgray.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timberandgray/

What to shop for: Fun tees, wooden signs furniture.

Timber and Gray

 

Chickweed and Clover
Web: http://www.chickweedclover.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chickweedandclover/
Address: RR1 Site 6 Box 19 , Sexsmith Alberta

What to shop for:  Their new product, Wild Rose and Magnesium body butter and spray which may help for a restful sleep.

Local Designer Spotlight: Twig and Velvet + ANNAEL

Annas Velvet

When I buy Christmas gifts for the women in my life I really like to purchase something unique and local. Little treasures that were lovingly created or designed by other women in Alberta who have far more creative vision then myself. Enter the perfect collab: Twig and Velvet + ANNAËL!

Twig and Velvet ANNAEL

The owners of these two local companies, Monika & Leanne, have actually been working together for quite some time, but have finally made it official with their new online shop, twigandvelvet.com!

Twig and Velvet offers stunning silver, metal & semi precious stone jewellery designed and handcrafted right in Beaumont Alberta. ANNAËL is a creation of wearable art (handwoven silk scarves and cotton shirts), and is the brain child of the owner who is also a professional photographer from Beaumont. Both of their unique designs are sold on their new online platform as well as their newest collaboration and “love child”: Anna’s Velvet. This collection includes wares like modern pearl items, leather wrap bracelets and a to die for 3 way poncho scarf.

Anna's Velvet

Last year, I purchased gifts from both of these companies: sparkly bracelets with gold clasps and a silk infinity scarf with the most beautiful photograph of a flower on it. All were very well received by their happy recipients! What I like most, besides the constantly evolving designs (they really never stop creating, ever), is that these local ladies have a “Chosen Acts of Kindness” program. With this program, they will give back in some way with a random act of kindness that they will be sharing via social media and on their blog. I can not wait to see what creative ways they come up with to give back!

Anna's Velvet

My TOP Gift Picks from www.twigandvelvet.com

Twig and Velvet Earrings

ANNAEL Scarf

  • 3 Way Poncho/Scarf in Olive: The pleather trim and wooden stamped buttons on this beauty make it so special and perfect for everyday.

Anna's Velvet Poncho

 

You can shop all 3 collections (Twig & Velvet, ANNAEL and Anna’s Velvet) here! Don’t forget if you are in Beaumont there is free pickup as well. Happy Holiday Shopping!

Every Day Girl

*This post was brought to you by Twig and Velvet. As always, all opinions stated are my own.

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25+ Alberta Businesses We Love – Small Business Saturday

Happy Small Business Saturday friends! Being that we are the Alberta Mamas, we obviously love a lot of things Alberta made. We asked our founders and contributors to tell us their faves and here they are!

Baby Nell Designs From Handmade Felt Campfire Smore Sets to bibs to blankets and more this small business out of Canmore has some beautiful products!

 

Bamboo Ballroom This shop of delightful clothing finds for adults & kids can be found in Calgary AND Edmonton.

 

Bohemian Dream Décor Gorgeous dream catchers and more to add beautiful décor to your house.

 

Buddhibaby Know an expecting mama or mama with a babe, these curated boxes always bring a happy mail day!

 

Crafted Crafted is filled with a wide variety of locally handcrafted items all in one place – inside the Calgary Farmers’ Market.

 

Crystal Driedger – Artist Crystal has a definitive style and pours her heart and soul into every once of a kind piece. A wall would be very lucky to have a CD original hung on it!

 

eLiasz & ella Jewlery I personally have been a fan of E&E since the get-go. Beautiful, classic, one of a kind and not crazy expensive.

 

Field Stone Fruit Wines of Strathmore. We kind of consider wine “Mommy Juice” so naturally, we had to include a local maker.

 

Floc Boutique You always find something fabulous at this shop in Edmonton.

 

Frickin Delights To have one is to fall in love. Their shop is out in Devon and they have people who travel far and wide for their goodies. We dare you to try to just eat one.

 

Iron Hide Woodworks The furniture that comes out of this shop never fails to impress. Well made, quality products and the way they incorporate metal – wow! Check out the copper stitching – it’s amazing!

 

Land of Lennon Handmade head bands, snuggly stuffies and more – lots of unicorn goodness to be had here!

 

Lauren Mary Holistics A private holistic practice + product line including skin care, baby care, teas and more.

 

Lettered Glass With the tagline “Where every glass tells a story!” and a particular mug reading it’s Mother******* Tea Time, we are loving this small biz!

 

One Stitch Two Stitch Custom Apparel and Reclaimed Wood Decor Hailing from Leduc, this small local biz does custom embroidery & their own fun creations that you can check out and buy.

 

Organic Solutions This company in Drayton Valley uses Organic, Non-GMO, Vegan, Sustainably Harvested, Ethically Harvested, Fair Trade, ingredients with No Pesticides, Preservatives, growth agents.

 

Peak Paper Co Peak Paper Co. specializes in custom illustrations, chalkboard art, watercolour paintings and brush & pen.

 

Prestigious Imagineering Cutting Boards, wine racks, even stairs are just some of the things you’ll find on this Drayton Valley busines page.

 

Portage and Main No Talky During Hockey is one of our fave tees from this great local company!

 

Prairie Chick Prints Charming & cheeky greeting cards, mugs and more out of Sherwood Park.

 

Prairie Couture A boutique shop in St. Albert with quality clothing, jewelry and footwear at reasonable prices.

 

Sawdust and String This crafty mama out of Fort McMurray makes all kinds of stuff! Socks, signs – even blanket ladders!

 

The Bra Lounge An amazing gem in Red Deer, this shop prides itself on the ultimate in customer service and the most delectable Everyday styles, sports, nursing, maternity, non-underwire, shape wear, fine lingerie, loungewear/sleepwear and accessories.

 

The Discovered Cupboard This company offers beautiful furniture revival and has items for you to purchase but also will take something you have already and make it better.

 

The Speckled Freckle Signs, custom décor, there’s some really fun stuff coming out of this shop in Camrose.

 

The Violet Chocolate Company Ummm, chocolate. We almost don’t need to say more but, Almond toffee? Gingersnap cookie? YUM!

 

Wild Prairie Soap Company A soaperie, manufacturing natural bath and beauty products that are beneficial to both the body and the environment.

 

Belle + Bliss Boutique                  Comfortable and stylish, but without a huge price tag!

Tiny Campfire                                   Tiny Campfire is a fun and fashionable online boutique that helps recycle name brand & designer baby & toddler items in great condition.

While She was Dreaming           Handmade Wood and Fabric Jewelry.

Share your favourite local biz in the comments below! Let’s share some Alberta love.

Edmonton's Child

Holiday Style with Belle + Bliss Boutique

Wool Slippers from Belle + Bliss Boutique

One of my favourite things about the holiday season is cozy, snuggly fashion! With all the visiting and celebrating it’s a huge mom time saver to have a few new items in your closet that you can literally grab and put together an outfit in an instant. Thankfully Belle + Bliss, a local online boutique, has just launched their Winter 2017 Collection and we’re in love with pretty much all of it- for ourselves as well as gifts for the stylish women in our life!

Belle + Bliss Boutique was started by a local mom in 2014 who was looking for alternatives in fashion that suited the busy mom life. It all started with bringing in tunics that paired easily with leggings and since then they have focused on carefully curating women’s fashion that is comfortable, stylish, flattering and affordable. Most of the pieces can be mixed and matched and easily paired with boots or heels and your favourite pair of leggings or jeans (though they do sell those too!).

Here’s a little peek at some of the gorgeous new items from the Winter 2017 Collection!

Belle & Bliss

Since it’s the season for giving, we can’t forget to mention some easy yet thoughtful gifts! Check out my top Christmas Gifts from Belle + Bliss Boutique below:

The Blanket Scarf

This is the perfect gift, women love these! They make a boring outfit on trend instantly, plus add warmth and can be used as a shawl or blanket when travelling. Shop here.

Blanket Scarves

The Slippers & Mittens

These cozy slippers & mittens are guaranteed to keep toes and hands nice and toasty. They are 100% wool with comfy fleece lining and handmade in Nepal. Each pattern is one of a kind!

Wool Slippers from Belle + Bliss Boutique

Shop the slippers here!

Wool Mittens from Belle & Bliss Boutique

Shop the mitten collection here!

The Toque

Adorable and functional, plus the best accessory for a bad hair day! Browse beanies, messy bun toques, classic knits and pom toques here.

Belle & Bliss Winter collection

Shipping is ALWAYS free on orders over $99 and if you are from the Edmonton Area you can take advantage of local pick up. Available in Beaumont, South Edmonton, and Sherwood Park.

Happy Shopping!

*This post was sponsored by Belle + Bliss Boutique. As always, all opinions are our own.

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Made for Mama Makeup: LipSense (Discount+Giveaway!)

5 Reasons why I Love LipSense

Why I love LipSense

Moms! You need to know about this product I’ve been using for the last month or so: it’s called LipSense. No doubt you’ve seen it here and there and probably wondered if it really works. Well, I’ve been putting it to the test, like all the tests. I have camped, paddled down the North Saskatchewan River, gone to a concert AND been a bridesmaid in a full day wedding all while wearing LipSense. The overall verdict? This stuff is amazing!

Here’s 5 Reasons Why I am in Love with LipSense:

  1. It really does stay on all day. Like I said, I’ve been testing it and it surpassed my expectations. Sometimes I put it on at night when I am binging on Netflix by myself, because pretty, and when I wake up in the morning my son asks me why I am wearing such nice lipstick! As a mom, we all know that it’s a good day if we even get to dry shampoo our hair, no one has time for overly fussy lipstick. A few steps in the morning, gloss throughout the day, and you are set.
  2. There is no transfer or smudging on to yourself, babies, husbands, drink glasses…. anything! I’m known as “aunty sparkles” because whenever I give a baby back to its mom they will likely be covered in lipstick kisses or some sort of blush/bronzer, not anymore for the lipstick at least! I’ve also avoided dark lip colours in the past because it looks so awful when it smudges, cue hot mess mom at the end of a wine night…. With LipSense the only thing left behind is sometimes a hint of clear gloss if I have just applied it.
  3. You can buy a remover for mistakes. Aptly called, Ooops!, the remover is helpful in the beginning as you master the application (which does not take long). It is also handy for removing at the end of the day, though quite often I find it will come off with soap and water as well.
  4. It does not dry your lips out. I had sworn off long lasting lip colour. Every time I have tried it in the past I have ended up with dry, chapped lips and a ring of colour left around the outside of my lips….not sexy, guys. With LipSense you just apply the gloss on top of the colour whenever you start to feel a little parched. My lips don’t feel dry or angry when I remove it at the end of the day either.
  5. Tons of colour combinations! I went safe the first time and chose “Pink Champagne” a lighter shade. I knew after trying it twice that I wanted something bolder, so I bought “Dark Pink” a few days later. The good thing is you can layer shades and create all sorts of great customizable colours. They even have various gloss options, including a matte one that I must try next.
  6. I feel beautiful. This is perhaps the most important part. As a mama who works from home most of the time while wearing a sports bra, t-shirt, yoga pants and top knot- this is the most glamorous part of my day. It is the perfect ‘pick me up and make me look pulled together for preschool pick up’ product.

LipSense

Some Tips for Wearing LipSense:

  • Make sure your lips are clean and dry. Do not apply chap sticks beforehand.
  • Apply 3 layers, make sure each layer dries before you add another.
  • If you get crumbs on your lips after eating just brush them off before you re-apply your gloss.
  • Don’t freak out if your lips tingle the first few times you apply the colour! The company says that it is caused by dry lips and will cease after you stop using other wax and paraffin based lip products. This was true for me, I hardly get any tingle now and I’m rarely using my chap stick.
  • Join the group Harmony’s Lip Babes for tutorials, inspiration and even flash sales!

LipSense

We want to give you the chance to try LipSense for yourself! Discount Code + Contest Below!

For the next week (Until midnight October 17th, 2017) Alberta Mama readers will save 15% if you purchase ANY LipSense product through Harmony Ryan and mention us!

We’ve also got a $20 credit towards any Starter Kit purchase to give away! Enter below via the Rafflecopter widget.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Have you tried LipSense? I would love to hear what your fave colour combinations are!

XO,

Every Day Girl

*Full Disclosure: I was given a starter kit to try this product. I immediately purchased more of my own because I LOVE it. As always all opinions are my own:)

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