Top 10 Holiday "To Dos"

1. Attend One of a Kind Christmas Show & Sale 

This event includes a diverse group of artists and craftspeople selling handcrafted food, clothing, jewellery, accessories, home and outdoor decor, and much more. Great for personal shopping or gift giving!  

  

2. Make something sweet 

The holidays would be incomplete without them! Holiday treats can always be stored around the house (or in the freezer), offered at holiday gatherings, or given away as gifts. Here are two of my favourite recipes: 

Double Chocolate Treasures

2 cups chocolate chips

1 cup butter

3/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups quick oats 

1 1/2 cups flour

2 tsp baking powder 

1/2 cup icing sugar

1 package holiday m&ms or your favourite holiday candy

Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips, stirring until smooth. Beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in eggs, vanilla and melted chocolate. Combine dry ingredients, except for the icing sugar. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the blended mixture. Stir in remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in powdered sugar, coating heavily. Place 1 m&m on the top of each ball. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

*Store in an air tight container and consume within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches. 

Chocolate Chip Shortbread 

1 cup butter 

1 cup white sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 egg

2 1/2 cups cake and pastry flour

1/2 tsp baking powder

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 

Preheat oven at 350 degrees F. Cream butter and sugar together. Add vanilla and egg; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix again. Stir in chocolate chips. Spread in 1 or 2 pans to desired thickness. Bake for 30 minutes. 

*Store in an air tight container and eat within 4 days. Freeze to sustain freshness, if desired, and take out in small batches. 

3. Make something salty 

Baby ritz bits turn into a festive, holiday snack, with this easy-to-make "Cocktail Snack". A delicious hors d'oeuvre, snack food, or gift!

Mix the following: 

3/4 cup oil (i.e. olive oil, safflower oil) 

1 tbsp dill weed

1/2 tbsp garlic powder

1 package hidden valley french onion dressing 

Pour over 1 package of bite size ritz bits. Leave overnight. Serve and enjoy! 

4. Visit Snakes and Lattes 

Mix up your coffee routine! Snakes and Lattes offers food and beverages, with an endless number of games to play, so you're never bored! Call ahead to book a reservation. 

5. Skate at Nathan Phillips Square

Going skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a must! Bring your skates or rent! It's a fun way to spend your day (or evening) with friends and be in the outdoors. 

6. Warm up with a hot drink  

Keep warm with a tea, or locally made hot apple cider. Or create your own hot cocoa, minimizing preservatives and artificial chemicals.  

2 heaping tbsp cocoa powder

1 mugs of hot liquid (water, milk, soy or almond milk etc.) 

1 tbsp honey 

Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg

Add cocoa powder to a mug. Add 1/2 a mugs worth of hot liquid. Stir until cocoa has dissolved. Fill mug with remainder of hot liquid. Add honey and stir. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired! 

7. Watch a holiday classic 

Miracle on 34th Street, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Christmas Carol, White Christmas, Home Alone, the list goes on! Spend an evening watching your favourite holiday film!  

8. Attend an event in the city

Toronto's city website lists a series of events happening year round, with a special section on celebrations/holidays. Here are the ones that caught my attention:  

• Window Wonderland 
• Cavalcade of Lights Tree Lighting Celebration in Berczy Park
• Lowe's Toronto Christmas Market 
• Photorama 2011
• Holiday Art Market 

9. Ski or snowboard  

Hills in Ontario are worth the visit! With multiple ski clubs around Ontario, there is a convenient spot for you! Carpool with a group of friends, or use the Grey Hound, travelling from Toronto to Blue Mountain and Horse Shoe Valley Ski Resort. 

*Access to the ski club may vary based on starting location. 

10. Treat yourself at Winterlicious

Although a bit premature, Winterlicious offers price fixed menus at a variety of restaurants. Find an appealing cuisine and treat yourself! 

How will you spend your holiday? 

Top 10 Interview Essentials

1. Choose the right outfit 

Choose an outfit that you feel your best in. The statement you want to make in your interview should match your appearance. If you look polished and put together, you will project professionalism and confidence at first glance. 

2. Purchase a blazer 

A well fitted blazer exudes professionalism, commands respect and can be paired with multiple garments in your wardrobe. Consider how you plan to wear it (i.e. open, closed or both), prior to picking your size. 

*Start with a black blazer. Then consider expanding your wardrobe with grey, brown, charcoal or something more colourful. 

Blazer, Talula

3. Be appropriate

There are numerous dos and dont's of what is considered interview appropriate. 

Here are my lists:   

Dos 

Blazer

Button down shirt, Artisan (Australia) 

Dress pans, Club Monaco           

Pencil skirt, Club Monaco

Button down shirt

Dress pants 

Knee length pencil skirt

Dress, Lush

Belt, Artisan (Australia)

Knee length dress

Belt

Scarf

Flats

Understated heels 

Colourful handbag

Don'ts 

Leggings 

Jeans

T shirt 

Sneakers 

Rain boots 

For additional items, use your best judgement!  

4. Incorporate colour

Add a pop of colour into an element (or two) of your outfit. Make a statement with your hand bag, button down shirt, belt, scarf, or nail polish. 

Flats, Bloch 

Scarf, Michael Kors

Nail polish, OPI Big Apple Red

Bag, Jinjer (Blue Mountain Village)

Belt, Artisan (Australia) 

5. Create a clean look 

Have your hair off of your face, and minimize frizziness. Simple eyeliner, with some mascara and blush is appropriate, and creates a fresh faced, natural look.   

6. Do your research 

Know the name and mission of the organization, the title of the position you are applying for, the name of the hiring manager, and what the job involves. Pay attention to key details found within the job description and qualifications, and shape your answers accordingly. 

7. Prepare their questions, and your answers 

Brainstorm questions that you could be asked, and how you will answer them, to provide well thought out responses at the time of your interview. 

Consider the following questions: 

What strengths do you possess that would contribute to this position? 

Why are you interested in this position? 

What experiences have prepared you to be successful in this role? 

What is something that makes you uncomfortable? 

What is a quality you wish you had? 

What is a weakness you possess? 

*Employers appreciate honesty, but always end the statement with something optimistic and positive i.e. I may come across more reserved at times, but when I am passionate about the subject I am discussing, I find it easier to overcome this tendency. 

Consider the following scenario questions:  

If a volunteer does not show up for his or her shift, what do you do? 

If you have been given multiple deadlines, how do you prioritize?  

If a volunteer is nervous about an upcoming event, how will you proceed? 

8. Prepare your questions 

By asking one or two questions at the end of your interview, you demonstrate that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position. Write down three or four questions, in case it is covered during your interview. 

Sample questions 

Who will I be reporting to? 

What is a typical day in this role? 

What are the career progression possibilities for this position? 

9. Bring your cover letter, resume and references 

Demonstrate to the hiring manager that you are well prepared and organized! Have your cover letter, resume and references each printed on a separate sheet of paper, and provide accordingly. 

*Include your reference's name, the organization or company they are associated with (consistent with what is outlined on your resume), business telephone number, and email. Ensure you have their permission to do so. 

10. Follow up

Call the hiring manager a few days after your interview to see where they are at in the process. Ask them for feedback on how your interview went. This provides an opportunity to improve how you conduct yourself in future interviews, and again, shows the hiring manager that you have a vested interest in the organization or company, and in the position. 

What are your interview essentials? 

Top 10 Ways To Budget

1. Record expenses

Keep track of what you spend! Know where your money is going. Make note of which expenses can be cut. 

  

2. Categorize

Separate your expenses into the categories that pertain to you on a monthly basis. I divide mine into cash (debit and cash expenses), entertainment ("wants"), transportation, and visa.  

Examples

• Cash: hair cut, birthday present

• Entertainment: movie, meal out

• Transportation: subway fare, gas money

• Visa: clothing, shoes

Other categories to consider: cell phone bill, gym membership 

3. Decide your essentials

Separate what you need to spend (i.e. living expenses) from what you want to spend (i.e. entertainment, clothing etc.). This is especially helpful to see which expenses need to be cut. 

4. Research before purchase

Consider all options when it comes to technological purchases, clothing, memberships etc. Check online or in store to ensure you are making a cost effective choice. 

5. Save receipts

Do this in order to record expenses, and in the case you decide to return or exchange your purchase. 

6. Cross reference

File your receipts and cross reference your expenses with your visa statement. Pay attention to possible errors.  

7. Consider cost effective forms of transportation

Walking, biking, and public transit offer cost effective ways to get around. Use mapquest or trip planner on the public transit website in your designated city, like the TTC, to get to your destination. 

*Load a PRESTO card to use multiple forms of public transit so you never have to worry about finding exact change! 

8. Save for choice purchases

If you are looking to purchase something substantial, set aside a set amount each month in order to save. Make the purchase without making a dent in your bank account. 

9. Create a savings account  

Set aside a certain amount of money every paycheque to keep in a savings account. Also consider investing your money to expand your bank account. 

10. Be creative

Add to your account! Use social media, craigslist, or kijiji to sell unwanted items. Or save your money! Barter, by exchanging services (i.e. cover reception in exchange for yoga classes). The possibilities are endless!  

How do you budget?

Top 10 Beauty Care Secrets

1. Use shampoo without sulphate

Did you know the sulphate that is found in shampoo is really just a bubble? This chemical strips your hair of its natural oils and can lead to frizziness, dryness, dullness and colour fade. Consider a shampoo without sulphate, like Live Clean, available at Shoppers Drug Mart. Give it a chance! It may take up to two weeks for your hair to adjust to the change.

2. Minimize shampoo use  

Limit the number of shampoos per week. Every other day max (shampoo without sulphate). Every two weeks max (with sulphate). 

3. Add volume

Flip your hair forward to wash out shampoo and conditioner to add more volume and lift to your hair! 

4. Use product, post shower 

Consider using a leave-in conditioner after your shower to add moisture to your hair, particularly if it is dry. Comb through hair for even distribution.  

5. Minimize straightening 

Straightening your hair contributes to dryness and the development of split ends. Consider wearing your hair curly with a product from the Curly Hair Institute. Or try wearing your hair naturally, braided or in a bun. 

6. Get frequent hair cuts

If you are particularly prone to getting split ends, and straighten your hair often, have your hair trimmed every 8 weeks. Your hair should make a "U shape" at the back. 

7. Wash, moisturize, repeat! 

Washing your face in the morning and at night with the appropriate product(s) will help to maintain clear skin. Also, ensure to take off all make up at night. Use an appropriate moisturizer after each face wash. 

8. Choose toxin free make up

Natural make up products are a much healthier option for your skin and body. The Big Carrot in Toronto offers a wide selection of companies and products at reasonable price points. Their knowledgeable professionals will ensure that you find the appropriate product, based on skin, colouring, price range, and any other criteria you might have (i.e. local, organic). Shoppers Drug Mart also carries a line or organic products by Physicians Formula.

9. Eat and drink well 

You are what you eat! Did you know a lack of protein in your diet will affect the colour of your hair? Lower amounts of protein will change the colour from black to orangey red. Ensure you incorporate an adequate amount of protein into your diet! Also, drink lots of water to maintain the health of your skin! 

10. Talk to a professional

Before deciding on a face wash or moisturizer, talk to a professional about what products are appropriate for you and when you should use them. Be skeptical! Don't just buy into the success stories. You may be unknowingly harming your skin. 

What are your beauty secrets? 

Top 10 Breakfast Tips

1. Eat it!  

You don't want to miss the opportunity to give your metabolism a kick start in the morning! Research has shown that eating breakfast is beneficial for concentration and weight control. 

2. Sweeten with honey, maple syrup and stevia

Consider using each of the following, in moderation, to sweeten any part of your breakfast (i.e. coffee, cereal, yogurt, etc.)

• Honey has been found to contain traces of minerals, as well as vitamin B, C, D, and E.  
• Maple syrup has been found to contain potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese and amino acids. 

*Note honey and maple syrup can be bought locally! 

• Stevia is an herb that the body does not metabolize, hence why it contains no calories. It is important to understand the properties that certain sweeteners contain, and consider the impact on your health. Visit healthy net to learn more. 

Honey, maple syrup, stevia

3. Choose the right peanut butter or almond butter

These nut butters contain "good fats" and are high in protein. Choose a product that contains ONLY peanuts or almonds. Ensure it does not contain hydrogenated oil, since the process of hydrogenation alters the chemical structure of the product. 

*Try this power breakfast recipe!  

1 or 2 tbsp of a nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)

~1 tbsp of ground flax seeds

~1 tbsp of ground chia seeds

~1 tbsp hemp seeds

~1 tbsp sesame seeds

~1 tbsp of unsweetened shredded coconut

~1 tbsp raisins

A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, sometimes both.

For added sweetness, 1 tbsp carob chips

To make "energy balls", create the same mixture, minus the coconut. Roll into balls. Roll them in the coconut to prevent from sticking. Refrigerate or freeze. Take out at your convenience! 

4. Choose whole grains 

Check the ingredients! You want the first ingredient to be "whole wheat," "whole meal," or "whole corn". These are indicators of products that contain wheat germ; a source of fibre and antioxidants.  

*Did you know companies in Canada can label a product as "whole wheat" with up to 70% of the germ removed?

Multiseed Rye Loaf; The Market; Meaford, Ontario

5. Use natural yogurt 

Sweeten with a spoonful of maple syrup, or combine with apple sauce. Read the ingredients! You want to minimize the number of ingredients that appear unfamiliar or difficult to pronounce, which are often added chemicals.  

6. Choose a filling cereal  

Start your day with a bowl of oatmeal or granola. Choose oatmeal WITHOUT artificial flavours. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup. This source of soluble fibre is slowly digested, stabilizes blood-glucose levels and lowers blood cholesterol.

Also consider Rose Reisman's light nut and dried fruit granola recipe.   

7. Add fruit

Fruit is a source of carbohydrates and fibre, which will add sweetness and flavour to your breakfast. Consider cutting up a banana on toast with peanut butter! Add mixed berries to your oatmeal! Or take an apple with you if you're on the go.  

8. Add nuts 

Add nuts to your breakfast or take a handful with you on the go! 

Here's what you should know: 

• Almonds contain vitamin E, dietary fibre, B vitamins, minerals, monounsaturated fat, and have cholesterol lowering properties. 
• Cashews contain monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat. 
• Peanuts contain fibre, magnesium, vitamin E, manganese, among other nutrients, and are high in protein. 
• Pecans contain protein, unsaturated fats, and omega-6 fatty acids.

Most importantly, they will all help to maintain fullness! 

9. Make a smoothie

My favourite smoothies are prepared with frozen berries. 

To prepare one smoothie (approximately 1.25 cups): 

1 cup frozen fruit

1 whole ripe banana (if desired) 

~1/2 cup of natural yogurt

~1/3 cup soy milk/almond milk/rice milk

A sprinkle of almonds

A sprinkle of wheatgerm

Alter the quantities to create your desired amount and consistency!

10. Pre prepare 

If you know your mornings are rushed, have something ready to grab and go! Build your smoothie the night before, or create a trail mix of nuts, dried fruit, raisons etc. 

What are your tips on eating a healthy breakfast?