If you are living in Ontario I think you should know that our Ontario government is rolling out the carpet for the new ORPP (Ontario Retirement Pension Plan). The information I am providing just highlight some important information. Please visit the website for more detailed information.
Why?
Not enough people are saving for retirement.
Companies no longer offer pension plans.
When?
It will be introduce starting 2017.
How?
Employees and employers will each contribute an equal amount, capped at 1.9% on annual earnings up to $90,000. Anything above $90,000 (in 2014 dollars) will be exempted.
Examples:
If you make $45,000 a year, you will receive an additional $6,410 per year for life on top of your OAS and CPP.
If you make $70,000 a year, you will receive an additional $9,970 per year for life on top of your OAS and CPP
The amount you will receive from ORPP will depend on how long you contribute and your salary during those period.
For more information go to http://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-retirement-pension-plan
Disclaimer: This is not a Sponsored post. This post only highlights some facts. I can't guarantee the facts since the information could change. Highly advise to check the website for more information.
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Saturday, 17 October 2015
Monday, 26 January 2015
Cost of Living 2015 ~ #Life #Money
Happy 2015?
Like I said last year, each year, the cost of living increases and it is getting harder to live in the City.
Major increases will be affecting me this year:
1. My local monthly public transit system has not finalized their 2015 budget proposal. They are thinking of another $0.10 increase and a $7.25 increase for my Metropasses per month. A huge jump from $5 from last year. The plus side is that kids under 12 will ride for free. It would somewhat benefit me in a small way but I don't travel on the TTC with my kids often enough to make it worth it. They say it is to improve the service but I think it is more likely to pay for their yearly salary increase. To start their hourly rate is $24.06/hr then it increases after 12 months probation to $26.53 then $31.40 after 24 months. 7 hrs x 5 days per week x $24.06 = $43,789, clearly I am working in the wrong career. All I need to get is a bus licence and drive a bus/subway all day.
2. My home insurance went up $12/mo. Which is still high since I am paying over $160 a month. Last year increase was $50.
3. A price increase for Canada Post, effective January 12, 2015, stamps for letter mail will cost $0.77 for mailing in Canada and $1.18 for mailing in U.S. These changes are for postage meters and in a way it is a good thing since I see less junk mail but it is terrible for small businesses.
4. They also said my Property Taxes will increase this year by 2.75% where people with houses valued at $525,000 will pay an average of $83 additional per year. They also said that the solid waste management will also increase by 2.25%
5. My hot water tank (Direct Energy) rental has increased by another $0.50. When I first moved into my house over 8 years ago, it was around $10 now it is close to $16.
6. Back in December it was discussed that Ontario Hydro bills could go up 42% within 5 years. So if you were paying $125 it could go upwards to $178 a month plus HST, this is going to hurt alot of people.
Typical Family’s Monthly Hydro Bill 2013 - $125 2014 - $137 2015 - $145 2016 - $167 2017 - $170 2018 - $178 2019 - $177 2020 - $181 2025 - $194 2030 - $205 (Source: Ontario Long-Term Energy Plan. 2013)
7. Enbridge rates are going up and it has already taken effective beginning of the year. The increase will be approximately $63 annually.
Other increases will be either affecting me or others.
Rent - maximum of 1.6% increase is allowable in Ontario in 2015 - see guideline here
Condo Fees
Car Insurance
Increase in EI & CPP premiums - less take home pay
Camps, after school programs, Day Cares
Food - the usual fruit, meat, and eggs
And the list could go on and on.
I also have to look into summer camps for my daughter. Both of the summer camps I take my daughter to increased their fees and one was more than the other. This summer the kids has one more extra week of summer vacation so more expenses for me this summer.
Expenses has been increasing but my salary has been the same for the past 5 years. *Sigh*
Which increases will affect you the most?
Anything I have mentioned above is through research via online newspapers. Please do your own research to get accruate numbers.
Like I said last year, each year, the cost of living increases and it is getting harder to live in the City.
Major increases will be affecting me this year:
1. My local monthly public transit system has not finalized their 2015 budget proposal. They are thinking of another $0.10 increase and a $7.25 increase for my Metropasses per month. A huge jump from $5 from last year. The plus side is that kids under 12 will ride for free. It would somewhat benefit me in a small way but I don't travel on the TTC with my kids often enough to make it worth it. They say it is to improve the service but I think it is more likely to pay for their yearly salary increase. To start their hourly rate is $24.06/hr then it increases after 12 months probation to $26.53 then $31.40 after 24 months. 7 hrs x 5 days per week x $24.06 = $43,789, clearly I am working in the wrong career. All I need to get is a bus licence and drive a bus/subway all day.
2. My home insurance went up $12/mo. Which is still high since I am paying over $160 a month. Last year increase was $50.
3. A price increase for Canada Post, effective January 12, 2015, stamps for letter mail will cost $0.77 for mailing in Canada and $1.18 for mailing in U.S. These changes are for postage meters and in a way it is a good thing since I see less junk mail but it is terrible for small businesses.
4. They also said my Property Taxes will increase this year by 2.75% where people with houses valued at $525,000 will pay an average of $83 additional per year. They also said that the solid waste management will also increase by 2.25%
5. My hot water tank (Direct Energy) rental has increased by another $0.50. When I first moved into my house over 8 years ago, it was around $10 now it is close to $16.
6. Back in December it was discussed that Ontario Hydro bills could go up 42% within 5 years. So if you were paying $125 it could go upwards to $178 a month plus HST, this is going to hurt alot of people.
Typical Family’s Monthly Hydro Bill 2013 - $125 2014 - $137 2015 - $145 2016 - $167 2017 - $170 2018 - $178 2019 - $177 2020 - $181 2025 - $194 2030 - $205 (Source: Ontario Long-Term Energy Plan. 2013)
7. Enbridge rates are going up and it has already taken effective beginning of the year. The increase will be approximately $63 annually.
Other increases will be either affecting me or others.
Rent - maximum of 1.6% increase is allowable in Ontario in 2015 - see guideline here
Condo Fees
Car Insurance
Increase in EI & CPP premiums - less take home pay
Camps, after school programs, Day Cares
Food - the usual fruit, meat, and eggs
And the list could go on and on.
I also have to look into summer camps for my daughter. Both of the summer camps I take my daughter to increased their fees and one was more than the other. This summer the kids has one more extra week of summer vacation so more expenses for me this summer.
Expenses has been increasing but my salary has been the same for the past 5 years. *Sigh*
Which increases will affect you the most?
Anything I have mentioned above is through research via online newspapers. Please do your own research to get accruate numbers.
Saturday, 11 October 2014
Half full vs Half empty?
It is sad to admit that I see my glass half empty. This avoids disappointment. Then again that might sabotage me. There were many times I would sign up hoping to get picked to do the job. There were a few times I wanted something so badly that I was so disappointed I was not on the list.
Over the years I believed that if you worked hard enough, something good will come out of it. Alas, it is not always the case. It is not fun when I worked so hard and in the end it gets shot down or it is not good enough. It is not fun working for a company who just takes me for granted. They focus on my mistakes and not my contributions to the company.
So, am I half full or half empty? I am still half empty but I have learned to accept the outcomes as they come. “It is what it is”. There is no changing it. There is no point in being disappointed if I don’t get to be chosen or things didn’t work out. No point of mulling over it. I guess it is what is meant to be. Can’t waste on negative energy so all I could do is keep on going.
One of the best quotes I had discovered is:
“It’s not about whether the glass is half full or half empty, it’s about who is paying for the next round.” – Anonymous
If anyone one wants to buy me a drink or two I would gladly accept.
Is your glass half full or half empty?
Over the years I believed that if you worked hard enough, something good will come out of it. Alas, it is not always the case. It is not fun when I worked so hard and in the end it gets shot down or it is not good enough. It is not fun working for a company who just takes me for granted. They focus on my mistakes and not my contributions to the company.
So, am I half full or half empty? I am still half empty but I have learned to accept the outcomes as they come. “It is what it is”. There is no changing it. There is no point in being disappointed if I don’t get to be chosen or things didn’t work out. No point of mulling over it. I guess it is what is meant to be. Can’t waste on negative energy so all I could do is keep on going.
One of the best quotes I had discovered is:
“It’s not about whether the glass is half full or half empty, it’s about who is paying for the next round.” – Anonymous
If anyone one wants to buy me a drink or two I would gladly accept.
Is your glass half full or half empty?
Saturday, 25 January 2014
Cost of Living 2014 ~ #Life #Money
Happy 2014?
Like I said last year, each year, the cost of living increases and it is getting harder to live in the City.
Four major increases will be affecting me this year:
1. My local monthly public transit fares hiked up $5/mo when last year it was $2.50/mo. It was $117.50 and now it is $122.50 per month. It is getting harder and harder to justify their cost increase where I know it the increase is for their salary than anything else. $5 x 12 months = $60
2. My home insurance went up $50/mo. That is insane! They said it was because there was a flood back in the summer and now I have heard there will be another increase because of our recent ice storm. $50 x 12 months = $600
3. A major price increase for Canada Post that I can't believe is happening. Effective March 31, 2014, stamps for letter mail will cost $0.85 if they are bought in coils or booklets. $1.00 each if they were bought individually an for commercial rates if they are using postage meters at a rate of $0.75 per letter.
4. They also said my Property Taxes will increase this year by 2.5% where they said 1.4% goes to inflation, 0.5% to fund our public transportation, and 0.6% for enhanced services. What! 1.4% for inflation. My salary was slashed by XX% and it has been that way since the market crash...so it is totally unfair where there are so many strikes and fees increase where my after tax money is declining.... I think the increase will be around $50 or so...
Other increases will be either affecting me or others.
Rent - maximum of 8% increase is allowable in Ontario in 2014 - see guideline here
Bell service fees increased November 1, 2013
Condo Fees
Car Insurance
Increase in EI & CPP premiums - less take home pay
Camps, after school programs, Day Cares
Food - the usual fruit, meat, and eggs
And the list could go on and on.
What does this mean? Either I get a better job or start cutting more things from our lifestyle and trying find ways to help me save. If your wages/salary increases each year - that is great but un-lucky me and many others that I know - it does not. In 2013 I have decreased my land line bill but my internet bill actually increased and they couldn't give me a discount. Hopefully in March I could negotiate and get a better rate and if not, it is about time I find a different supplier. I have cancelled my cable which helped me save close to $50 a month.
Which increases will affect you the most?
Like I said last year, each year, the cost of living increases and it is getting harder to live in the City.
Four major increases will be affecting me this year:
1. My local monthly public transit fares hiked up $5/mo when last year it was $2.50/mo. It was $117.50 and now it is $122.50 per month. It is getting harder and harder to justify their cost increase where I know it the increase is for their salary than anything else. $5 x 12 months = $60
2. My home insurance went up $50/mo. That is insane! They said it was because there was a flood back in the summer and now I have heard there will be another increase because of our recent ice storm. $50 x 12 months = $600
3. A major price increase for Canada Post that I can't believe is happening. Effective March 31, 2014, stamps for letter mail will cost $0.85 if they are bought in coils or booklets. $1.00 each if they were bought individually an for commercial rates if they are using postage meters at a rate of $0.75 per letter.
4. They also said my Property Taxes will increase this year by 2.5% where they said 1.4% goes to inflation, 0.5% to fund our public transportation, and 0.6% for enhanced services. What! 1.4% for inflation. My salary was slashed by XX% and it has been that way since the market crash...so it is totally unfair where there are so many strikes and fees increase where my after tax money is declining.... I think the increase will be around $50 or so...
Other increases will be either affecting me or others.
Rent - maximum of 8% increase is allowable in Ontario in 2014 - see guideline here
Bell service fees increased November 1, 2013
Condo Fees
Car Insurance
Increase in EI & CPP premiums - less take home pay
Camps, after school programs, Day Cares
Food - the usual fruit, meat, and eggs
And the list could go on and on.
What does this mean? Either I get a better job or start cutting more things from our lifestyle and trying find ways to help me save. If your wages/salary increases each year - that is great but un-lucky me and many others that I know - it does not. In 2013 I have decreased my land line bill but my internet bill actually increased and they couldn't give me a discount. Hopefully in March I could negotiate and get a better rate and if not, it is about time I find a different supplier. I have cancelled my cable which helped me save close to $50 a month.
Which increases will affect you the most?
Sunday, 12 January 2014
PGX (Part II) ~ #Life
Happy New Year! Yes, I have set myself another goal until the summer months. To follow up on my last post about using PGX during last summer and setting my goal for shedding the first 10 lbs which I did accomplished by the end of September. It was a slow start due to timing but I kept at it and manage to run/jog 5K. PGX only assisted me to loose the extra weight but the rest was my dedication of running each week at least 3X and no late night snacks. My daughters goes to bed around 8am so we all brush my teeth including myself so I won't eat after 8pm until the next morning. This prevents me from eating at 10 or 11 before I hit the sack.
Monday, 16 September 2013
Survey #3: A to Z of Me, Me, Me!
I forgot where I have seen this survey. I thought you might enjoy reading this
A - Age - In my 30s
B - Best holiday - Thanksgiving
C - Chores you hate - Everything
D - Dogs - None
E - Essential start of your day - I repeatly hit the snooze button
F - Favourite colour - Red, Pink, Purple
G - Gold or Silver - Silver
H - Height - 5ft 7"
I - Instrument you play - none
J - Job title - Mommy, Blogger, Care Giver, Sister, Daughter, Accountant
K - Kids - 2
L - Live - Ontario
M - Movie - I love "The Mummy", "True Lies", "Star Trek: The Future Begins"
N - Nickname - "C" nope, I am not kidding
O - Overnight hospital Stay - total of 5 nights for both kids
P - Pet peeves - too many to list
Q - Quote from a film - I'm bad at remember lines so I can't think of one
R - Right or Left-handed - right
S - Siblings - one brother
T - Time you wake up - 5:45am (I try), I usually go to bed past midnight
U - Underwear - yes
V - Vegetable you hate - none
W - What makes you run late - kids
X - X-ray's you had - on my ankle
Y - Yummy food you make - chicken pasta and ham & egg english muffin
Z - Zoo animal - Growing up, I loved to see the white tiger
If you wish to also fill out this survey, you are most welcome to.
Have a good one!
A - Age - In my 30s
B - Best holiday - Thanksgiving
C - Chores you hate - Everything
D - Dogs - None
E - Essential start of your day - I repeatly hit the snooze button
F - Favourite colour - Red, Pink, Purple
G - Gold or Silver - Silver
H - Height - 5ft 7"
I - Instrument you play - none
J - Job title - Mommy, Blogger, Care Giver, Sister, Daughter, Accountant
K - Kids - 2
L - Live - Ontario
M - Movie - I love "The Mummy", "True Lies", "Star Trek: The Future Begins"
N - Nickname - "C" nope, I am not kidding
O - Overnight hospital Stay - total of 5 nights for both kids
P - Pet peeves - too many to list
Q - Quote from a film - I'm bad at remember lines so I can't think of one
R - Right or Left-handed - right
S - Siblings - one brother
T - Time you wake up - 5:45am (I try), I usually go to bed past midnight
U - Underwear - yes
V - Vegetable you hate - none
W - What makes you run late - kids
X - X-ray's you had - on my ankle
Y - Yummy food you make - chicken pasta and ham & egg english muffin
Z - Zoo animal - Growing up, I loved to see the white tiger
If you wish to also fill out this survey, you are most welcome to.
Have a good one!
Monday, 9 September 2013
Blog Anniversary ~ #Life
Hi All,
I just realized that my 2nd year as a blogger has come and gone. I have been so busy with my networking, reviews, and giveaways I totally forgot about it. I try to post everyday but being a mom to two young kids and a full time job both eats up my time - but I do try my best.
I want to say Thank You for your support by either following me, commenting, re-tweeting, and re-pinning. Most importantly I want to thank the Sponsors for providing me materials I could work with. Almost everyday I reach out to Sponsors and some have been successful and many are still a work in progress.
Please continue what you do and hopefully more doors will open up to me as I work beside the pros and gurus and bring you much more reviews & giveaways for you to enter.
I love you guys and I thank you.
I just realized that my 2nd year as a blogger has come and gone. I have been so busy with my networking, reviews, and giveaways I totally forgot about it. I try to post everyday but being a mom to two young kids and a full time job both eats up my time - but I do try my best.
I want to say Thank You for your support by either following me, commenting, re-tweeting, and re-pinning. Most importantly I want to thank the Sponsors for providing me materials I could work with. Almost everyday I reach out to Sponsors and some have been successful and many are still a work in progress.
Please continue what you do and hopefully more doors will open up to me as I work beside the pros and gurus and bring you much more reviews & giveaways for you to enter.
I love you guys and I thank you.
 |
| Ice-cream time! |
Thursday, 15 August 2013
Planting with my daughter ~ #Life #NatrelOrganic
I had the pleasure to create my garden from Natrel. It has been awhile since I did some planting and I am no green thumb, not even close. I was provided with some pots and tools to create the vertical garden but I have no place to hang it so I decided to lay it out on my back door porch to get plenty of sunshine, rather than having it indoors during the summer. I had my daughter help me fill up the pots and plant some spinach seeds. It was what I was given a few weeks back and never used them so it was perfect. This activity with my daughter drew in some neighbourhood kids watching us planting the pots. After we were done, I told my daughter it is her responsibility to water the plants unless it rains. Maybe this project might make my daughter into a true green thumb? She might end up being a better planter than I will ever be. Thanks Natrel www.natrel.ca/organic/
*Disclosure - The product in this review was provided to me free of cost. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
Sunburned! ~ #Life
Did you get sunburned? The horrible thing that I don't wish it upon anyone.
So what to do?
The best way to treat a sunburn is not to get one at all. So don't forget to apply sunscreen all over including your lips, every two hours or more often. Have fun!
So what to do?
- Take some pain reliever (aspirin or ibuprofen) which will reduce the inflammation
- Put apply a cool cloth on the area
- Depending how server it is, take frequent cool showers/bath without soap or scrubs - water only
- Apply lotions containing Aloe Vera or Aloe Vera (if you have any) to the area to help it to heal faster.
- Drink plenty of water to prevent from dehydration
- Wear loose clothing and wear sunscreen to prevent further damage
- However if you are running a fever, go see a doctor because you might have heatstroke
The best way to treat a sunburn is not to get one at all. So don't forget to apply sunscreen all over including your lips, every two hours or more often. Have fun!
 |
| Some of my Sunscreen Collection |
Thursday, 18 July 2013
Wrong Number ~ #Life
Back in March I received a text from an unknown number...
Unknown: Call me right now
Unknown: Why would u take the charger bring it right now my phones dead
Unknown: Like WTF
Unknown: Yo u better dat b4 I come to your school Yo
Unknown: I'm showin
Me: Who are you
Unknown: Srry wrong number
In the end I had a good laugh.
What would you have done? say? do?
Unknown: Call me right now
Unknown: Why would u take the charger bring it right now my phones dead
Unknown: Like WTF
Unknown: Yo u better dat b4 I come to your school Yo
Unknown: I'm showin
Me: Who are you
Unknown: Srry wrong number
In the end I had a good laugh.
What would you have done? say? do?
Wednesday, 10 July 2013
Leave Burt & Ernie Alone ~ #Life
Sesame Street was one of my most watched TV shows while growing up. I enjoyed watching the characters teaching me the letters, words, how to count, and listening to them break off into a tune. They were just puppets created by the infamous Jim Henson who has brought many happy childhood memories. Then over the years as an adult hearing a debate if Burt and Ernie were gay or straight. Seriously? Why are people debating about the sexual orientation on two puppets that have no pulse? I thought they were brothers but that is just me. As I quote "Sesame Street and the company of founder Jim Henson has insisted many times that the orange and yellow pals are neither straight nor gay nor transgender or anything else: "The remain puppets, and do not have sexual orientation."
So there, leave them alone. Stop taking something so pure and innocent and throwing in something that is not there in the first place. Don't take something like love and friendship and warp it into a joke. If they are gay or not, who cares.
So there, leave them alone. Stop taking something so pure and innocent and throwing in something that is not there in the first place. Don't take something like love and friendship and warp it into a joke. If they are gay or not, who cares.
 |
| Photo belongs to The New Yorker |
*Disclosure - All opinions expressed are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.
Monday, 8 July 2013
My Vacation this Past Week ~ #Life
Yes! I was off this past week. Been very busy with the girls. Once I go back to work, I know I will have a pile of catching up to do. It always feels like a punishment for taking some time off.
One day I took my oldest daughter downtown to do a little shopping and have some ice cream at Mushies. I love the idea where I pay by the weight of the ice cream because I could mix it up with as much flavour I want and how little I want in my cup. The best of all is that I dont have to share with my daughter. She could pick the ones she wants and I pick my own. We didn't go over board and I spent under $4.
The next day I took my oldest to to IKEA! We managed to grab their $1 breakfast and free coffee since I signed up to their membership. I dropped my daughter at the playland for 40 mins while I did a quick shopping in the store. In the end I bought two kids IKEA stools for $8 each.
I did mention that I would take my oldest to the movies. I wasn't sure which one to see since I like a showing closer to noon so I have enough time to pick up the little one. I try to avoid watching 3D movies since it does not fit well on top of my glasses. For most people it is fine but I have a small Asian nose so I cant put two glasses on my nose. We decided to watch Despicable Me 2 since it was the only one showing around noon. We both enjoyed the movie but I think I enjoyed it more than my daughter.
It has been so long we went on a road trip so we decided to head over to the US side for a day trip. The traffic and crossing was horrible but we finally made it in one piece. One of the stops we had to make was the Lindt store. They sell my favourite Marzipan chocolate that you can only purchase in the US. There is a Canadian version but it is not as good as this little piece of heaven. After we grabbed some lunch at Five Guys, I was a bit disappointed that there was nothing I like at my favourite stores - Anne Taylor, Banana Republic, Forever VVI and Sephora. I left empty handed. However we did stop by Best Buy to purchase a new pair of head phones and books for my daughter at Barnes and Nobles. I have never been to Barnes and Nobles before today and it felt like walking into Chapters. I did finally purchased a Michael Kors purse. Too bad the sale is not as good as the Coach Factory Outlet.
We finally got the chance to go strawberry picking. My daughters had a blast eating them than putting them in the containers. I love the taste of warm strawberries that have been soaking up the sun. It makes is so sweet and tasty. I just cant believe we picked over $7 of strawberries. They were $2.25/lb. On our way home we picked up a tub of vanilla ice cream and a few homemade apple turnovers.
This has been a very busy week for me and I have a few plans for the girls this summer. It looks like it is going to be a busy summer for us.
One day I took my oldest daughter downtown to do a little shopping and have some ice cream at Mushies. I love the idea where I pay by the weight of the ice cream because I could mix it up with as much flavour I want and how little I want in my cup. The best of all is that I dont have to share with my daughter. She could pick the ones she wants and I pick my own. We didn't go over board and I spent under $4.
The next day I took my oldest to to IKEA! We managed to grab their $1 breakfast and free coffee since I signed up to their membership. I dropped my daughter at the playland for 40 mins while I did a quick shopping in the store. In the end I bought two kids IKEA stools for $8 each.
I did mention that I would take my oldest to the movies. I wasn't sure which one to see since I like a showing closer to noon so I have enough time to pick up the little one. I try to avoid watching 3D movies since it does not fit well on top of my glasses. For most people it is fine but I have a small Asian nose so I cant put two glasses on my nose. We decided to watch Despicable Me 2 since it was the only one showing around noon. We both enjoyed the movie but I think I enjoyed it more than my daughter.
It has been so long we went on a road trip so we decided to head over to the US side for a day trip. The traffic and crossing was horrible but we finally made it in one piece. One of the stops we had to make was the Lindt store. They sell my favourite Marzipan chocolate that you can only purchase in the US. There is a Canadian version but it is not as good as this little piece of heaven. After we grabbed some lunch at Five Guys, I was a bit disappointed that there was nothing I like at my favourite stores - Anne Taylor, Banana Republic, Forever VVI and Sephora. I left empty handed. However we did stop by Best Buy to purchase a new pair of head phones and books for my daughter at Barnes and Nobles. I have never been to Barnes and Nobles before today and it felt like walking into Chapters. I did finally purchased a Michael Kors purse. Too bad the sale is not as good as the Coach Factory Outlet.
We finally got the chance to go strawberry picking. My daughters had a blast eating them than putting them in the containers. I love the taste of warm strawberries that have been soaking up the sun. It makes is so sweet and tasty. I just cant believe we picked over $7 of strawberries. They were $2.25/lb. On our way home we picked up a tub of vanilla ice cream and a few homemade apple turnovers.
This has been a very busy week for me and I have a few plans for the girls this summer. It looks like it is going to be a busy summer for us.
*Disclosure - All opinions expressed are my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.
Wednesday, 3 July 2013
Update ~ #Life
Wanted to say I hoped everyone had a great long weekend. I, myself have been really busy with the kiddies now that school is out and trying to keep them busy. That being said, I have been racking my brains working on a few more giveaways and content for the blog. I am hoping you are enjoying them so far. I have been keeping a look out for more Canadian coupons so hopefully I might stumble on more these coming weeks. I am planning to give some out on my Facebook page very soon - you might never know when...
My goal this summer is to lose roughly 10 lbs with the help of PGX. It was a rough start and I still have not gotten the grove yet on this diet. I have to admit that I love food. It is so difficult to find the time to go for my run. I know some who don't use an MP3 player to work out but I can't live without mine. I need the motivation and I have alot of fast beat songs to help me reach the next step.
Just wanted to keep you guys updated and say thanks for following.
<3
My goal this summer is to lose roughly 10 lbs with the help of PGX. It was a rough start and I still have not gotten the grove yet on this diet. I have to admit that I love food. It is so difficult to find the time to go for my run. I know some who don't use an MP3 player to work out but I can't live without mine. I need the motivation and I have alot of fast beat songs to help me reach the next step.
Just wanted to keep you guys updated and say thanks for following.
<3
Saturday, 22 June 2013
I was Wearing all White ~ #Lolewhite #Yoga
Yes! I was at the Lole's Toronto white yoga session.
Over 2,000 dressed all in white at Fort York National Historical Site.
This yoga session was held in the rain - can you believe that?
The event was free and all I had to do was reserve a mat.
Toronto Yoga instructor: Grace Dubery
Music by: M'Michele, electric harpist (she's amazing)
Sponsors/Contributors/Supports: Chateline, Sporting Life, Kashi, Zico, Downward Dog Yoga Centre, Chopra Yoga Centre, Tuja Wellness, Germain Touch
It was a wonderful experience and I can't wait to go again next year.
Over 2,000 dressed all in white at Fort York National Historical Site.
This yoga session was held in the rain - can you believe that?
The event was free and all I had to do was reserve a mat.
Toronto Yoga instructor: Grace Dubery
Music by: M'Michele, electric harpist (she's amazing)
Sponsors/Contributors/Supports: Chateline, Sporting Life, Kashi, Zico, Downward Dog Yoga Centre, Chopra Yoga Centre, Tuja Wellness, Germain Touch
It was a wonderful experience and I can't wait to go again next year.
Thursday, 13 June 2013
My Happy Ending ~ #Life
There is not a lot of happy stories around the media but I have a little one I would like to share with you. If any of you recall I used to subscribe to a beauty box subscription called "Glymm" which when I first signed up, it was one of my favourite boxes to receive in the mail. They had introduced great products and points to shop in their store. After my first year was up, I signed up for another year (even though their service was declining) since I couldn't resist the allure of their delivery - it was like Christmas morning every 30 days.
5 months into my 2nd year, there was an issue involving them not responding to their phone services and emails. Then suddenly they totally shut down (Facebook, Twitter, website, etc...) All we received was a good bye email and that was the end of their story.
So I immediately contacted Visa (Thank God for Visa) and told them the scenario. After completing all the required paper works for Visa, and after a month of waiting, I received back a portion of my money which I have calculated I should get back in return. So, after the panic attack I am glad there is a happy ending to my horror story.
So the moral of my story, is try to stay away from long term, prepaid subscriptions, if possible, and contact Visa immediately if you paid by Visa.
I wish everyone all the best trying to get their money back.
My current giveaways:
Rockin' Green: Shake It UP - Ends July 4th - *US* Only
Splat Hair Chalk - Ends July 3rd - CAN Only
Eaurganic Real-moisture Shampoo & Conditioner - Ends June 23rd - CAN Only
5 months into my 2nd year, there was an issue involving them not responding to their phone services and emails. Then suddenly they totally shut down (Facebook, Twitter, website, etc...) All we received was a good bye email and that was the end of their story.
So I immediately contacted Visa (Thank God for Visa) and told them the scenario. After completing all the required paper works for Visa, and after a month of waiting, I received back a portion of my money which I have calculated I should get back in return. So, after the panic attack I am glad there is a happy ending to my horror story.
So the moral of my story, is try to stay away from long term, prepaid subscriptions, if possible, and contact Visa immediately if you paid by Visa.
I wish everyone all the best trying to get their money back.
My current giveaways:
Rockin' Green: Shake It UP - Ends July 4th - *US* Only
Splat Hair Chalk - Ends July 3rd - CAN Only
Eaurganic Real-moisture Shampoo & Conditioner - Ends June 23rd - CAN Only
Saturday, 25 May 2013
SPF - Sun Protection Factor ~ Life
I'm no expert or a dermatologist but for the longest time I wondered what SPF stood for, and whether higher a number meant better protection.
It is sunscreen season and we should all wear sunscreen to protect our skin so we stay young and healthy. Technically we should be wearing it all year round but most people don't stay out long enough for it to matter or like me who don't see the sun because of my hours.
SPF stands for - Sun Protection Factor. So what does that mean?
It tells you how long you can stay in the sun without burning from UVB light.
If you burn under the sun in 30 minutes x 30 SPF = 900 minutes (15 hours) you can stay under the sun without burning.
Sounds great, right? But there are a number of factors that affect the calculation so it is not necessarily correct - like most of the time we don't put enough sunscreen on, depending on the time of the day because late afternoon is when the sun is the strongest, and how much sunscreen has been absorbed into your skin.
If you see the term "Broad Spectum" it means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB
So the big question: Is there a difference between the SPF levels? We have seen SPF 30 to SPF 110. According to CBC's Marketplace there is really no difference but only increasing the protection by a few percent. SPF 30 gives you 96.7% protection and SPF 70 gives you 98.3%. Apparently, there is no sunscreen that gives you 100% protection and once applied, we need to re-apply because after a few hours it is gone. It's recommended to re-apply every two hours. Overall, there is no reason to spend the extra money for a SPF 110 where there is only a small difference. So you ask why do they make SPF 110? One answer is marketing. We all think higher SPF is better so we shell out the extra few bucks.
The video is a few years old but the theory is still the same.
What are your thoughts? Which SPF do you purchase?
It is sunscreen season and we should all wear sunscreen to protect our skin so we stay young and healthy. Technically we should be wearing it all year round but most people don't stay out long enough for it to matter or like me who don't see the sun because of my hours.
SPF stands for - Sun Protection Factor. So what does that mean?
It tells you how long you can stay in the sun without burning from UVB light.
If you burn under the sun in 30 minutes x 30 SPF = 900 minutes (15 hours) you can stay under the sun without burning.
Sounds great, right? But there are a number of factors that affect the calculation so it is not necessarily correct - like most of the time we don't put enough sunscreen on, depending on the time of the day because late afternoon is when the sun is the strongest, and how much sunscreen has been absorbed into your skin.
If you see the term "Broad Spectum" it means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB
So the big question: Is there a difference between the SPF levels? We have seen SPF 30 to SPF 110. According to CBC's Marketplace there is really no difference but only increasing the protection by a few percent. SPF 30 gives you 96.7% protection and SPF 70 gives you 98.3%. Apparently, there is no sunscreen that gives you 100% protection and once applied, we need to re-apply because after a few hours it is gone. It's recommended to re-apply every two hours. Overall, there is no reason to spend the extra money for a SPF 110 where there is only a small difference. So you ask why do they make SPF 110? One answer is marketing. We all think higher SPF is better so we shell out the extra few bucks.
The video is a few years old but the theory is still the same.
What are your thoughts? Which SPF do you purchase?
Monday, 13 May 2013
Toronto Prime Outlets - Opens this August 1st, 2013 ~ Life
Hey, have you heard?
Toronto Prime Outlets is opening this August 1, 2013 in Halton Hills (Highway 401 at Trafalgar Road adjacent to Hightways 401 and 407 ). The first Prime Outlet in Canada. If you live in the general area they are having a job fair at Milton Sports Center (605 Santa Maria Blvd) this coming June 6th, 2013. See link for more information.
Please tell me you have heard of Prime Outlets. If not, where have you been? Think designer names (J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Kate Spade, Coach, Michael Kors, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Dressbarn) at a discounted prices. Sweet! There will be 85 outlet stores but they have not released any details what will be opening. I can't wait.
Toronto Prime Outlets is opening this August 1, 2013 in Halton Hills (Highway 401 at Trafalgar Road adjacent to Hightways 401 and 407 ). The first Prime Outlet in Canada. If you live in the general area they are having a job fair at Milton Sports Center (605 Santa Maria Blvd) this coming June 6th, 2013. See link for more information.
Please tell me you have heard of Prime Outlets. If not, where have you been? Think designer names (J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Kate Spade, Coach, Michael Kors, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Dressbarn) at a discounted prices. Sweet! There will be 85 outlet stores but they have not released any details what will be opening. I can't wait.
Sunday, 17 March 2013
Why are Quebec residents excluded in many contests ~ Life
There are most likely hundreds of contests currently running but have you ever wondered why Quebec residents are excluded?
I know each Canadian contest has are fine print, like if you work for the company you can't enter, the timeline of the contest, how many times you can enter (daily, weekly, monthly), you have to be 18 years of ages, answer a math skill question, and sometimes sign a waiver/release to order to receive your prize.
Did you know there is extra, extra fine print that explains the reason why contests excludes Quebec resident from participating?
The main points are:
1. Unless the prize is less than $2,000 you have to register the contest with Regie at least 10 days before the start of the contest and if you don't have a place of business in Quebec you need to give a security if the a single prize is worth $2,000 or the total prize worth more than $20,000...And on top, there is a tax up to 10% depending who can enter. via Financial Post
2. Sweepstakes needs to registered at least 30 days prior before they start
3. The Quebec government has the ability to change or cancel the contests once it has started and allowing them to be mediator if there is a lawsuit from the contest.
4. There are strict guidelines of what is allow and what isn't that allows Quebec residents to participate
Already, big ticket items like trips, new furniture or electronics, home renovations/makeovers, and a new car is most likely excluding Quebec residents. Who wants to pay additional fees? I can't give a definite reason why most companies excludes Quebec but it could be likely of the extra work involved, the fee, or maybe avoid legal consequences in case they over looked a detail that maybe cause penalty fees - who knows...
But rest a sure there are contests includes Quebec residents. According to Montreal Gazette, from April 2010 to March 2011, there were 8,304 contests registered. So don't fret my French neighbours, you might not be able to enter all that is available to Canadians but you might be surprise how many are available to Quebec residents.
Disclaimer - this is only a summary and my opinion. Information is obtained from researching online and not from the actual Quebec contest guidelines. No intention to be offensive.
I know each Canadian contest has are fine print, like if you work for the company you can't enter, the timeline of the contest, how many times you can enter (daily, weekly, monthly), you have to be 18 years of ages, answer a math skill question, and sometimes sign a waiver/release to order to receive your prize.
Did you know there is extra, extra fine print that explains the reason why contests excludes Quebec resident from participating?
The main points are:
1. Unless the prize is less than $2,000 you have to register the contest with Regie at least 10 days before the start of the contest and if you don't have a place of business in Quebec you need to give a security if the a single prize is worth $2,000 or the total prize worth more than $20,000...And on top, there is a tax up to 10% depending who can enter. via Financial Post
2. Sweepstakes needs to registered at least 30 days prior before they start
3. The Quebec government has the ability to change or cancel the contests once it has started and allowing them to be mediator if there is a lawsuit from the contest.
4. There are strict guidelines of what is allow and what isn't that allows Quebec residents to participate
Already, big ticket items like trips, new furniture or electronics, home renovations/makeovers, and a new car is most likely excluding Quebec residents. Who wants to pay additional fees? I can't give a definite reason why most companies excludes Quebec but it could be likely of the extra work involved, the fee, or maybe avoid legal consequences in case they over looked a detail that maybe cause penalty fees - who knows...
But rest a sure there are contests includes Quebec residents. According to Montreal Gazette, from April 2010 to March 2011, there were 8,304 contests registered. So don't fret my French neighbours, you might not be able to enter all that is available to Canadians but you might be surprise how many are available to Quebec residents.
Disclaimer - this is only a summary and my opinion. Information is obtained from researching online and not from the actual Quebec contest guidelines. No intention to be offensive.
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