Happy New Year

It's that time of year again. Where we say goodbye to one year only to welcome the next.

We wish our readers the best in 2012.

May next year be filled with love, happiness, sunny days, laughs and good memories.

Happy new year!

Love Sara and Michelle xo

Merry Christmas

Wow! Christmas came and went so fast. This year was especially special to me. It was the first time in many years I was able to go back to my home town of Iroquois Falls and celebrate with my family all under one roof. I don't remember that happening in... well... forever.

This Christmas was really amazing and I can't wait till next year. I promised myself that I will work on Christmas gifts throughout the year and I hope I stick to it. Christmas crowds are just a little too much for me.

I hope everyone had a wonderful time. Rest up because NYE is right around the corner.

My sister's dog Bella, Casey and Frank in their Christmas sweaters.

Sara xo

App Of The Day

I've had my iPhone for just about a month and I can't praise it enough. I was the generation Blackberry for many years but made the switch and I am really happy I did.

One of my favourite apps on the phone is Instagram.

It's a great way to take photos and share them with other Instagram, Facebook and Twitter folks. There are many filters to make that regular photo look like it was produced by the old and yet still amazing Polaroids. There are many different filters that can transform your photos. I enjoy the blur feature. It's a great way to make the focus of your photo pop! It's perfect! And you don't have to take a photo right away to use the Instagram. You can upload a photo to the app using the camera roll and voila, change up the photo the way you like.

I give this little app 5 stars!

If you'd like to follow me this is my Instagram name instagiguere

Here are some photos I took using the Instagram.

See you on Instagram :)
Sara xox

My Favorite Christmas Recipe

I want to share with you my super easy, super yummy, super awesome truffles recipe! You can make a small batch or a giant batch like I did yesterday. These truffles can be decorated and styled in ANY WAY. I sprinkled them with festive colored sugars, cocoa powder, coconut, peanut crumbs, colored chocolates, the possibilities are endless! These truffles have always been a big hit every year, with their solid chocolate coating and creamy center.

Yesterday I made over 175, along with another 175 of peanut butter balls. I want to make sure to have yummy snacks on hands for the holiday season. I will also be giving some out as gifts. I bought decoratives tins from the dollar store and put a dozen truffles in each. It's the perfect Christmas gift for your child's teacher, bus driver and babysitter.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do!

Here is the simple recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) package OREO Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, divided
• 1 (8 ounce) package PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
• 2 (8 ounce) packages BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate, melted

Directions

1. Crush the entire box of cookies. You can use a fork, potatoes masher, or place them in a large ziplock and use a rolling pin. Crush cookies completely.
2. Mix your cream cheese brick in with the crushed cookies in a large bowl. You may want to put your hands in there and blend it.
3. Make small balls with the dough. Roll them in your hands for the perfect shape. Place them on parchment paper of a cookie sheet.
4. Refrigerate until firm.
5. Dip in chocolate, then refrigerate.
6. Decorate as desired.

Tips

• For variety, use different types of chocolates; white, milk, dark, colored.
• Use toppings, Oreo crumbs, sprinkles, peanuts, toffee bits, coconut, cocoa powder etc.

These truffles can be frozen, be sure to take them out at least an hour prior before serving.

-Michelle 

What I'm Listening To

It's been a while since I've come across some incredible music. I'm an incredible music junkie who is constantly keeping an open ear to new acts.

My friend and I got talking about artists we listen to. We have similar taste in music. He mentioned this folk duo I've never heard of before but they are becoming increasingly popular. You'll hear why.

Ladies and gentlemen...

The Civil Wars

And my personal favourite track is Go (below)

Well I hope I've brought a little folk into your life and you enjoy this band as much as I do.

Sara
X

A Homemade December?

I can't believe Christmas is almost here. That means that I need to get going on my Christmas shopping.

I'd like to think that I'm an excellent gift giver but I'm not so confident this year. I have a few fantastic presents ready for the big reveal but I'm missing some key people.

Fro instance, my mum is one hard person to shop for. The moment I think I got the perfect gift, she's already gone out and bought it for herself. And so the search for the perfect gift continues.

My favourite gifts are the homemade ones. They are the most special and the most unique.
In the past I've made bath salts, took a page from William & Sonoma and made ready to make cookies in a jar. I've knitted hats and crocheted scarves.

If you're going to go home made this year make sure you do your research and have your gifts made sooner rather than later. You don't want to be panicking to finish a project when the big day approaches or not finish and have to fight the crowds on Christmas Eve.

If you've made or received some awesome homemade gifts let us know by sending an email of the gift to forevertickledpink@live.ca

We'd love to read your ideas and post our favourites here on the blog.

Sara

Cookies & Champagne

What a wonderful day! Nicole and I spent the entire day baking cookies for the HUG's Cookies & Champagne event.

We woke up pretty early and got started. Nicole made these incredible lemon nut cookies. They were unbelievable. While she was finishing up her icing, I was still trying to figure out what the heck I was doing. I even bought William and Sonoma mix and couldn't get it right. Thank goodness Nicole was here today. There is no way I'd be able to finish them in time for the event. And yes they were all suppose to be home made but I'm just not confident enough to make some rocking cookies from scratch. So I cheated. I mean it was just the mix. I swear!

Here are my sugar cookies. 

Nicole and I had a really wonderful time. There were so many cookies to choose from and the mini market was fantastic. I bought myself a very pretty necklace with a branch pendant. It's gorgeous and I'm very happy I got the last one. :)

Nicole and myself

Champagne glasses. 

So these 2 plates had our cookies on them. By the end of the exchange they were almost all gone and some other random cookies were added. 

I love this skirt.

What I brought home. :)

This is an event I will be attending next year. I'll have to practice my cookie making skills.

I'd like to say a very big thank you to the lovely ladies at HUG.

- Sara xo

How to love a snow bank

I live in the deep north of Ontario, and I don't know about you but winter is here to stay.  How do I know this? Well because it was -21 this morning, that's how! Most people, cringe at the sounds of an early morning snow plow, because this means we need to clear the snow bank left at the end of our drive way. But maybe I can change your mind, and show you the benefits of that little pile of snow.

Most people don't know this but, snow shoveling is beneficial in SO many ways.

First things first, get yourself a good sturdy shovel that you are comfortable with. It's also a good idea to get water proof gloves or mitts. Invest in a good pair, this will make the winter season so much easier (trust me). Bundle up the babies and the fur babies and GET OUT SIDE. Considering all the time we spend indoors during the winter, the fresh air will do you good.  The kids can help, the dog can help, make it a family fun time!

Did you know the average person burns over 250 calories an hour shoveling snow? This is almost the same as playing a vigorous sport. So not only are you, cleaning up the drive way, bonding with your family and working on your fitness, but you are also getting an amazing back work out. Having a strong back/core can reduce your risk of injuries, improve posture, increase energy and so much more. Remember keeping active and following a healthy balanced diet can decrease your risk of getting sick this winter.

I like to shovel right after breakfast, get it done and over with. After being in the fresh air and working up a sweat, I feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle my day. My energy levels are sky high and I sleep like a baby at night. (oh and my drive way is cleared!)

So next time you see that little snow bank at the end of your drive way, smile because a great opportunity, has almost literally knocked at your door!

-Michelle

Winter Woofstock

This is my dog Frank.

She's a really happy puppy who loves life. I mean she loves everything. And that's why I was really excited to take her to Woofstock for the first time. Puppy love over load!

For those of you who don't know Woofstock, it's a festival for dogs. Exhibitors all over the GTA gather to showcase their products for your 4 legged loved one. From home furnishings to yummy snacks, Woofstock has everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy.

Here are a few snap shots of Woofstock...

Woofstock VIP Club, very exclusive

Have your pet take a photo with Santa. All proceeds go to a good cause.

This was one of my favourite dogs. Not only was he super huge but he was ultra cute.

This man was so sweet. His little critter was swinging along in this bag.

Nope these aren't human snacks.

I loved this piece. If I only had the place for it.

K 9 couture. 

The latest in dog strollers

And here's a photo of me and my little ankle bitter on our way out.

It was a good day to be a dog. Especially my dog. We left Woofstock with her favourite bones and loads of new snacks. As soon as we walked in the door, she was out like a light. That's how I know she had a good day. I'm looking forward to the summer Woofstock.

If you're interested in coming to the show follow these links.

http://www.winterwoofstock.com/

http://www.woofstock.ca/

Hope to see you there next time,
Sara xxxooo

Attention Toronto Gals

This is going to be a lot of fun. 

Different Ways To Wear Your Scarf

Attention Christmas Shopoholics

Tis' the season for crowded malls, frustrated shoppers and eager sales people. That's right, Christmas shopping time is here! Oh god, I LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR! Most people actually dread it and stay clear of shopping centers. I feel the complete opposite. I will find any excuse to hit a store this time of year, even if I am not buying anything, I love to get ideas, enjoy the decor and ofcourse the MUSIC! (I am baffled as to why most people despise Christmas music)

For those of you who do not like Christmas shopping this article is NOT for you. My suggestion, sears.com, or eBay lol.

Now for those of you who are caaaaa-razy for holiday shopping, please continue reading...

BUDGET

The budget is obviously the first thing we will start with. Figure what you can spend (for the entire holidays) and make out lists of how much money will go where, ex) gifts, decor, wrapping, food, travel etc... Once you've established your budget you can move onto the list.

LIST

I like to keep my lists pretty vague, (unless someone specifically told me what they wanted). By keeping my list vague, I can spend ample amount of time browsing through stores for inspiration.  My list is more like a guideline, basically will have a name and the max amount of dough I'm looking to spend on them. This process will usually last weeks, until each person has their PERFECT gift. I have already started my the browsing stage, not going to lie, I LOVE IT!

MALLS

Malls will be jam packed this time of year, if possible try and visit the malls in the early mornings to avoid heavy traffic. Saturday's and Sunday's are the most chaotic days. It's so thrilling for me to visit the malls, I love all the festive decor, music, vendors, and sometimes even live bands. Make sure to stop and visit Santa for a treat and photo. If you don't have kiddies, taking a break from shopping to watch the kids talk to Santa can put a smile on your face.

DOLLAR STORE

The best place to stock up on wrapping paper, bows, scotch tape, chocolates, candy, cards, ribbon, ornaments, stickers etc. $20 should be plenty to get all the wrapping supplies you need. The Dollar Store is where I buy all my stocking stuffers.

LAST MINUTE

I know last minute shopping is kind've reserved for the "Procrastinators, or Shopping Haters", but I've come across AMAZING deals shopping on Christmas Eve. Most stores will slash their prices on that final holiday shopping day. Not a bad idea to take a glimpse. You may be able to afford that necklace for Mom you've been eyeing all season.

BOXING DAY

Going backwards, this is the day I buy my decor and wrapping supplies. Big box stores like Wal Mart and Zellers will immediately put these items on clearance. I bring them home, back them up and use them for next year. Prices are on clearance for up to 90%!

Don't spend more than you are able to, you will regret it come the new years. Stay within your means! Always shop on a full stomach, to avoid frustration and impatience. Bring a friend, or family member, make a day of it. Enjoy every single moment, because this time only comes once a year.

-Michelle

The National Women's Show

Friday was quite the day. Not only did I enjoy some serious Korean BBQ but I attended The National Women's Show for the first time thanks to my friend Nicole.

I really didn't know what to expect when I walked through the doors. Even with a map in hand, where do we start? 

Well we started at one corner and worked our way through every exhibit. The handbags and jewelry alone were enough to make me bankrupt. There was an amazing piece I bought that I couldn't resist. It's not something you could wear everyday since it's large and has many feathers but I'm looking forward to bringing it out to a special event in the future. 

Pretty, shiny jewels

Both Nicole and I bought ourselves a new bag. A girl can't have too many bags if you ask me. However, my boyfriend would disagree. 

Halfway through our adventures, we decided it was time to get some serious massages. At first, it was very painful. I mean, I'm pretty sure she was trying to take my head off of my shoulders but after a few minutes I didn't want to leave. Both Nicole and I agreed that we felt a lot taller when it was all over. It was well deserved. 

One of my favourite exhibitors was Blo. When I lived at the King and Bathurst area, I would walk past this shop almost every day. I love the idea of getting my hair done without having to cut it. They wash, blow and style your hair for a reasonable price. The girls were so friendly and gave me the glamour treatment which I absolutely loved. I will definitely be hitting up Blo for special events in the future. http://www.blomedry.com/

A couple of girls getting the Blo treatment

It's true!

I'd also like to mention all the food that was available to sample. So many yummy snacks. There were also many demos on health, fitness, home renovations and of course fashion shows. 

Strut your stuff

After a few hours, both Nicole and I left with some fun memories and lovely goodies. I'm looking forward to going next year. 

http://www.nationalwomenshow.com/toronto/

Remembrance Day 2011

As you know tomorrow is Remembrance Day. If you have no yet picked up your poppy, be sure to do so with a small donation to the Royal Canadian Legion. Wear it proud and remember those who fought for us. Encourage a moment of silence at your work place or at home. Teaching your children about the past that made our future is also very important.

In Flander's Field the poppies grow

Holiday Season Is Among Us

That's right! The holiday season is here. I know this because Starbucks has released it's holiday cups. That's my indication that Christmas is right around the corner and it's okay to start getting ready for it.

Tomorrow I'll be heading to Dollarama to buy big giant bows for the outside of the house. Honestly, one of the best stores for things of that nature. I'll be taking out my Christmas mugs and plates tonight.  I can't wait to enjoy my green tea and honey in my Christmas mug. Who knows maybe I'll put a fire on too.

What a day! Christmas is here folks! Get ready for some major holiday blogs cause it is our favourite time of year.

Hello Holidays :) Welcome!

Little Big Dog Love

Don't You Hate When That Happens

Hairstyle File

If you're like anything like me, you don't like to spend too much time on your hair. However, looking like you walked through a hurricane isn't something you want either. I've had my share of bad hair days and I've also had my share of no time to do anything with your hair so I guess I'll throw it up in a messy, unkept, twisting pony tail thing.

Well I found a solutions ladies!

This is one the best hairstyles I have ever come across. THE BEST! I do it all the time and I don't need anything but an old sock! That's right you read it here! Just a sock.

It's called the Sock Bun. I do all the time for work, going out with friends, weddings, after the shower and before heading into bed.

Check out the video below on how to do this amazing hair style.

It's easy and it takes seconds to do.

- Sara xox

Confessions of a Single Mother Part 1

Not going to lie, when the alarm clock goes off in the morning I would love to hit snooze and catch a few more zzzzZZZ's, but reality is, I have a million things to do before school/work. Lucky for me my 7 year old son is a morning person. He opens his eyes and starts chatting right away. He runs downstairs in his little undies (that somehow fit around the waist but his little legs can't fill the holes, so the undies sag on his bum), he puts his dog outside and parks in front of the TV for the next hour.

I hate to admit it but I cater to all my son's needs, I know I should be giving him his own responsibilities but my instincts say otherwise. I prepare his breakfast, bring it to him, then collect the dirty dishes when he is done. All he needs to do is sit there and watch ICarly.


Meanwhile, I'm running around the house, getting my work clothes ready, doing my hair/make up, preparing lunches, feeding the dog, prepping for the gym and Oh ya...eating breakfast. Meanwhile, the little prince is still on the couch eating cheerios with his dog. When its time to get dressed, the perfect outfit has already been chosen and waiting for him next to the couch. But it gets worse, I put the clothes on him. (Did I mention he is 7?).

This routines happens every morning. When he comes home from school he is pretty much getting the same treatment, this goes on until it's time for him to go to bed. I guess since it has always been him and I, I have grown into these habits (so has he). I am obviously starting to be aware that things need to change. He needs to have his own responsibilities. If this goes on he will expect his college room mate to scratch his back before bed and pour his milk. YIKES. Has anyone ever gone through a similar situation? Any advice?

-Michelle


p.s the dog is spoiled too!

Inspirational Quote of the Day

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - William James

Views

FTP has reached 300 views in it's first week. Yay! Thank you everyone for taking the time and reading our posts. 

If you have any ideas or would like to write a post please email Sara or Michelle at forevertickledpink@live.ca

And please comment on our posts! You don't have to sign up or leave your name but let us know you like what we're posting. 

- Sara

Small Acts of Kindess

I am from a small town where most people know each other and politeness is something that is instilled from birth. This is what made the move to the big city such a shock for me. Not that people aren't polite in Toronto, but that so many can be rude. What these people don't realize is that one small act of kindness goes a longway to creating a better atmosphere for your short commute to work and in turn, impacting the rest of your day as well. 


It can be seen as a lot of work but all it takes is giving your seat to the person who looks frazzled because they are running late, or apologizing to the person you may have bumped into because thesubway car jerked. 


Remembering that other people may not be ready to face the public before their morning coffee just like you, and taking that into consideration when they give you a dirty look on the street, and reciprocating with a smile instead of the finger, can be all it takes to change that person's day for the better.


Just yesterday I saw at least thirty people pass a homeless woman on the street asking for spare change without a backwards glance, when I noticed a child stopping to give her one of his lollipops that he had recieved when trick or treating. The woman was so touched that she had tears in her eyes.
 
If a child can do it, so can we as adults. Small acts of kindness is all it takes to make each of our days here on earth more beautiful than the last.
 
 
Linda xoxo

Flu Season Refresher

What an amazing summer we had. The sun was shining nearly everyday! The beaches are crammed from corner to corner with families trying to cool down from the heat. But ofcourse all good things must come to and end. I hate to say it but..... the flu season is among us. People are always finding little tricks and secrets to beat the flu. It may seen like catching the flu is inevitable. There are a lot of 'out there' ideas though. For example. doing something crazy like eating a spoonful of chopped garlic every few hours,  is not my idea of "beating the flu".  I'm sure a lot of you already know a lot of easy tips to help minimize your odds. Since the flu season has just begun, a refresher is in order.

The Golden Rule

Obviously wash your hands several times a day, especially before eating or touching children and babies. Use a gentle antibacterial soap for atleast 30 seconds to a minute and rinse with warm water. Be sure to get the cracks between your fingers, wrists and finger nails. If you are strapped for time, use antibacterial gel. Although a good hand wash is always best.

Keep Active

Exercise does wonders for many different aspects in life. Not only does it keep you alert, awake, and stroooong, exercise helps build strong immunities. So put a sweater on your pooch and take a walk!. Or grab your old gym shoes and take a Zumba class at your local gym. Keep the entire family active all year round.

Wash high traffic areas and surfaces

Door knobs, telephones, handles, knobs, remotes etc... theme items are touched several times a day by yourself and your family members. A great idea is to buy an earth friendly anti bacterial cleaning wipes and give these items a good wipe every evening. Stop the spread of germs in their tracks before they end up in your system. Also very important if you have babies or toddlers, since everything ends up in their mouths.

Other tips and tricks

-Healthy Nutrition

-Good nights sleep

-Teach your child 'cough etiquette' (coughing or sneezing in a tissue, or their elbow)

-Avoid unnecessary contact with others who are sick

-Avoid public water fountains. Send your child to school with their own water bottle if you need to.

Again most of this you already know. This is a reminder and refresher, that the cold virus is here. Keep these pointers in mind all winter long.

-Michelle

Sara's Halloween Party Tricks and Treats

I love Halloween. Every year, we plan a trip to Wonderland's Fear Fest and celebrate Halloween by going through all the haunted houses and rides. This year, we decided to do something a little different. We didn't visit Wonderland but had Halloween party here at the new house. I made a few tasty tricks and treats and here they are. 

Fingers and Toes via Martha Stewart

I gotta give credit to Martha. I love cooking and baking but at times I just don't understand what the recipe is telling me to do. This particular recipe (link above) has a video to accompany all the steps. It's great!

Fingers & toes ingredients

Working that dough

Rolling the dough to form those fingers

Gotta poach them before tossing them in the oven

Getting them ready for the oven

The finished product
I named these 'Deadly Nose Pickers'

 Glasscakes

I loved these so much. And it was terribly easy. I bought the add eggs and water cupcake mix along with the pre made Betty Crocker vanilla icing. I used food colouring to change the colour of the icing.

Making the glass was very simple.
In a non stick pan put 2 cups of sugar on low heat and wait till it all melts. Don't forget to stir and add some food colouring to make it fun. Once it's a liquid put it on a non stick baking sheet and put it in the fridge or freezer. I put mine in the freezer. You'll know it's ready once you touch it and the sugar has returned to a solid.

Sugar

Almost all the way melted

Fresh out of the freezer

Finished shards of glass

Simple and delicious glasscake

I bought the cupcake paper at Bulk Barn and Dollarama

The stand is from Bulk Barn $9

One Sick Pumpkin

I loved this idea so much and couldn't wait to show it off. I bought a small pumpkin and carved a face of a pumpkin being sick which was pretty easy. Then I cleaned the front and inside of the mouth real well. I bought some salsa and spinach dip and placed it under the mouth. Can't forget to put some in the pumpkin's mouth to make it look like it's being sick.

Before 

The Return of Last Night's Party

 Labels

This was the easiest out of them all. I bought the drink labels at Dollarama and with the help of my mum, we put them on everything we could. It really didn't take that long either.

Inside the fridge

Beer labels

Drink table ready for business

I bought this skull bowl at Shoppers Drugmart $15

I gotta say, Dollarama really has a great selection of fun decorations for your home. I got a lot of my party supplies from that store and I didn't even have to hurt my wallet.

Please feel free to use these ideas next year.

Send us your favourite Halloween recipes and ideas. We'd love to try them next year.

Email us at forevertickledpink@live.ca

- Sara


Oh I almost forgot. This was my Halloween costume this year.

This is my Toddlers & Tiaras costume. My dog Frank is a little spider.