I didn’t always love to barbecue but I loved what came from it. Grilling wasn’t part of my New York chef school training. I grew up in a pretty traditional home with a mom who’s an incredible cook and a dad who takes his barbecuing seriously. Now, I master the grill in all weather.
Read MoreFrom Ossington to High Park, Toronto’s west, west end harbours hidden gems around nearly every corner. Whether it’s the best bagels in the city, or a local’s only stop for great furniture finds, this side of Toronto remains one of my most treasured areas to explore. For moms looking for something different to do with the kids over the weekend; for those bitter cold Saturdays when you don’t want to stay inside...
Read MoreThere’s something happening east of the DVP. Funky, eclectic and charming, this side of the city is stealing the hearts of Toronto with its hidden cultural gems, rooftops, boutique shops and breweries. From Riverdale to Leslieville, there’s much to explore. Here are a few tips on where to start.
Read MoreMidtown is one of my favourite parts of Toronto, filled with shops and restaurants galore amongst parks and unbeatable skyline views. Kicking around the city, but not sure what to do? Midtown is calling...make your way north for a Saturday worth getting outside (and embracing the cold) for.
Read MoreWinter is steadily approaching our doorstep and it’s only getting colder...but this doesn’t mean weekends have to be spent inside. Get out of the house, explore your city and enjoy what Toronto has to offer. For the moms who want a day out on the town; for the families looking for a place to take the kids: a quick and easy guide to spending a Saturday in Trinity Bellwoods.
Read MoreThe warm sunny days of summer are surely behind us. The seasons are changing, but I don’t mind it. This is a prime time for farmers markets – harvest season is in full effect and fruits and veg are at their best. The trees are beginning to change colour, cooler temperatures are creeping in; this is what I love most about fall. Take a drive, get out of the city and explore the beauty of the changing of seasons.
Read MoreSummertime arrives late; Summertime stays late. We’ve been lucky enough to see a week’s full of sunshine and blue skies – and so we find ourselves holding onto these final moments of outdoor entertaining. For the kids and for the adults, a patio pizza party is our way of taking advantage of what might be the last few warm evenings of the season.
Read MoreHarvest season...the leaves are changing, farmers markets are popping with colour and produce is at its prime. We’ve worked hard all year and now it’s time to reap the benefits of our labour. September is about honouring farmers and all the winemakers who have been doing it forever – shout out to my dad and his homemade wine that I look forward to every year and tops my list of favourite wines, due to the obvious reasons.
Read MoreBack to school means back to routine. Summer is over and there’s always an adjustment period post-Labour Day. Ease into fall and get back on track.
Read MoreThe end of summer is nearing. Labour Day marks the beginning of shorter days and cooler nights - it’s the last hoorah before we brace ourselves for winter. Whether feeding a crowd or the family, entertaining groups should be fun and easy so that you can enjoy it, too.
Read MoreSummer is the perfect time to take a drive and pick up fruit and veg from your local roadside stand. Believe it or not, many stands sell stuff that isn’t theirs so always start the conversation by asking where the fruit and vegetables come from. Because local is how you want to go.
Read MoreLet’s go back to basics. Don’t we all want the same thing? To be appreciated, considered and even thanked. And have an indulgent break, maybe a golf game, run or ride, and a nice meal? What about something thoughtful and homemade, nostalgic, like an old family photo from a favourite time? Here's what I think dads really want...plus some insight from some of my dads/trusted advisors.
Read MoreI didn’t always love to barbecue but I loved what came from it. Grilling wasn’t part of my New York chef school training. I grew up in a pretty traditional home with a mom who’s an incredible cook and a dad who takes his barbecuing seriously. Now, I master the grill in all weather.
Read MoreComing off a weekend of entertaining, I have a few secrets that work every time. Not everyone loves to entertain, but with a little planning and organizing, you can actually join the party too. Here’s the roundup on how to throw a memorable gathering, and have a great time while you’re at it.
Read MoreIt's detox month! You don't need to do a crazy diet or skip meals. You can have it all, praise moderation. Drink good wine, drink coffee, work your hardest and get tons of exercise, fresh air and eat really well: fresh, local, homemade. Detox spring clean your body, but don’t take the joy and fun out of living.
Read MoreDeciding what’s for dinner can be as dreaded and painful as going to the dentist. I’ve been caught glassy eyed wandering the aisles, no list, hoping to find inspiration, peering in strangers carts. Instead, start with the vegetables that are available this month.
Read MoreIn the spirit of Mother’s Day, let’s actually so something for ourselves (and the other women or moms in our life), make it a priority, and not feel guilty about it. Spoil yourself, buy yourself a gift, or indulge in a spa treatment. Moms, this day is for you.
Read MoreWhat do moms really want on Mother’s Day? After tears, laughs, and some incredible lines, I discovered the universal truths about what makes us moms happy on Mother's Day. Listen up, kids!
Read MoreSpring is officially here. As the seasons change, a new round of vegetables come into play. Take advantage of the warm weather with my favourite risotto recipe made with spring vegetables, and a list of must-have spring cookbooks.
Read MoreReady to start your annual Spring Cleaning? This comprehensive guide provides tips for cleaning up your living space room by room, with a list of my favourite products that are unique, handmade, and environmentally friendly.
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