Reviews

The Shortest Day By Susan Cooper, illustrator Carson Ellis Two award-winners have come together to create a seasonal treasure by presenting a poem that welcomes the winter solstice with illustrations that capture the magic of the returning light. From early hunter-gatherers

By Christine Davis Oxford Navy Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan This new addition to the Chalk Pain palette takes its name from Oxford University’s insignia. The deep inky blue is a great grounding colour in a playful palette or as part of

By Christine Davis Made entirely of recyclable, durable plastic, Dresden eyeglasses are now available in Canada. Sustainably made and super affordable, the concept came out of Australia when founders Bruce Jeffreys and Jason McDermott sought a solution for expensive frames and

The arrival of a new baby is a thrilling time for mothers, but can be overwhelming, making simple, everyday tasks such as grocery shopping and cooking, a burden. To help ease the stresses of motherhood, Inabuggy, formerly InstaBuggy, offers a helping

By Christine Davis Black Fly Tequila Shaker Shots Shake up your shots with these Mexican-inspired tequila poppers that feature premium ingredients including Mexican tequila, real lemon and lime juices, soda and a hint of salt. Plus they come in a unique test

With the growing trend towards giving charitable gifts in lieu of material things, this year, consider giving your child’s teacher a donation in his or her name to First Book Canada. One in four Canadian households don’t have a single book

Some conditions and diseases can be hard for children to understand. The experts at Hamilton Health Sciences Hospital have put together a list of books to make talking about certain health topics a little easier. Here is a sample of their

By Christine Davis Heritage Visodate Tissot combines a nostalgic dial with a modern twist in this watch that will give mom an avant-garde style she can wear anywhere, any time. Available at tissotwatches.com. $495 Best Mom Ever Box Tell mom how you really feel

By Jane Muller Let’s Play Hockey By Ginger Swift, illustrator Kathryn Selbert Board books and especially lift-a-flap board books are indispensable additions to the diaper bag where they are on hand to amuse a toddler when the need arises. This sweet little book

By Christine Davis Lip Scrub Gently exfoliate and condition your dry lips this winter with this Burt’s Bees Conditioning Lip Scrub featuring honey crystals. It will help create a smooth base for lipstick application and leave your lips kissably soft for your

By Christine Davis Fraction pouch Wear your heart on your pouch this Valentine’s Day and beyond with this versatile option from Parkland. It’s made of recycled water bottles, making it a socially responsible and cute option. Available at parklandmfg.ca. $17.99 Appaman Mod Suit Thoughtfully

By Christine Davis Chemin Des Tourelles Powermatic 80 Lady Wonderfully luxurious, this Tissot watch is sure to be a special piece for Mom. Featuring a mother of pearl dial and automatic movement, it’s available with assorted straps and colours. Available at

By Christine Davis Boys buffalo check shirt Be back-to-school cool with this trendy shirt that will also help keep you warm as the temperature drops. Available at Walmart. 9.97. Foogo Stainless Steel Straw Bottle and Food Jar Keep drinks cold and food warm with this Thermos duo. Both are ideally

By Christine Davis Banana Boat Simply Protect Offering worry-free protection in six formulas, including kids, baby and sport, this new line from Banana Boat is made with 25 per cent fewer ingredients. There’s no added oils or fragrances and you’ll

By Christine Davis ezClean Bapron A bib and apron in one, this Bapron by BapronBaby contour's a toddler’s body for a comfortable fit from size 6 months to 3T. They won’t feel constricted when eating or exploring sensory activities and they

By Christine Davis Paul coat This best selling coat by Lutha features a longer length and synthetic down insulation for extra warmth. An adjustable and removable hood can also help keep Dad dry. Available at Corbett’s Skis & Snowboards and Skiis &

By Christine Davis Rainbow Heart Bear Care Bears celebrate their 35th anniversary with this exclusive new bear. Rainbow Heart Bear is a limited edition, and give its nostalgia, won’t last long. Available at Toys R Us. $39.99     Night Walkie Talkies The perfect sibling gift,

By Christine Davis Crated with love This date night subscription box allows couples to save time, money and stress when planning monthly dates. Each box includes a date geared towards the season, as well as activities or games corresponding to the theme