Reflections From Our First (Official) Vacation

I must admit I was a little nervous, abeit excited as anything, for our first family flying vacation. I got mixed reactions, some saying it would be difficult while others saying it will be fantastic.

Well...it was...fan-fricking-tastic!

We went to Riviera Nayarit, a little off of Puerto Vallarta, in Mexico. It was beautiful, not too long of a flight (so the kids mainly slept), and just what we needed/wanted.

Our resort, Dreams Villamagna, was perfect - family friendly, great food, awesome staff, VIP service to the max, 24 hour room service, great view/room...and drinks and pools were perfect.

We went with no expectations, and aimed to make it about the kids, so with them playing in the pools and water, us having our cocktails...things went rather smoothly. Of course, vacation with the kids is different, but I truly think Vick and I are ready for these vacations. We want to experience life through their eyes...seeing them frolic in delight, swim to their heart's content, seeing animals and dolphins and even geckos in amazement, all made us so happy.  Honestly, as bedtime came around and they passed out...we often found ourselves exhaused too.

The kids loved it. Caiden learned how to swim (with floaties) and literally would want to swim until evening. Rayna only walked...no crawling...and loved to point out every bird and iguana we saw. They grew up so much in one week...amazing.

Vick and I would wake up as they would, we would check out our ocean view and get ready for breakfast and then either swim, or plan to go see dolphins...or take a trip to Sayulita...all of which was just awesome to say the least. Our trip was full of tacos, drinks, animal encounters (iguanas at the resort included), braids, and sun...sun and some more sun. The best thing,  was being together,  as corny as that may sound,  and watching our kids really experience and showcase their excitement for things...I mean Caiden held a snake and a crocodile for Pete's sake!!

I know now that this life as a mom with young ones,  is what I revel for. I am in my element and love being with my family.  I love that we take advantage of these precious moments,  because it will pass and life will change once again.  But until then,  I can't wait until our next adventure.

What a blast!

Halloween is Approaching...Let's go Shopping

Now that I have toddlers, I look forward to making sure every holiday or event is well represented, fun, and enjoyed as a family. 

It starts out with decorating at home fo sure.

Halloween is one of those events. It is so fun for the kids. Why not go decorate with some fun, spooky, and festive ways? On top of that, dressing up truly gets you in the spirit...and it brings out the kid in you as well. I think my son gets even more excited when he sees us dress up too.

However, as you must be thinking, trying to do it all...decor, costumes, little touches here and there, it can get costly. This is true, well kind of.

I recently discovered that Halloween stuff can actually come at a good price, if you check out Value Village. We have gone there a couple of times now, specifically for Halloween. I think you would be amazed.

Here's why:

1. Rows and rows and rows of costumes, wigs, accessories and makeup. There's something for all ages, sizes and theme.

2. Ideas galore. If you are stuck, this is a great place for inspiration. There's an idea poster, and just by walking around, I bet you will start putting together something fun.

3. Contrary to what you may think, not everything is used. The Halloween section is primarily comprised of NEW items, fully packaged. 

4. Costumes yes...but also decor! You have your pick of skulls, bones, skeletons, dead roses, you name it! I guarantee you will find tonnes to decorate your place without breaking the bank!

We had a fun time gathering some key items to kick off Halloween preparation.  Check out my haul of a bag of bones, glow in the dark skeletons, cookie cutters, pumpkin carving kit, garlands, window stickers...and so much more.

Caiden had a blast helping put some stuff up.

I will share with you the final look, but wanted to just share how impressed I was with the selection and thrifty prices.  Check out my social media for updates as we finalize our costumes and finish decorating. 

Check out #thriftortreat  and seriously if you want to go all out, or even a little bit, this Halloween, go check out the Value Village spooky selections.

Have fun!

#thriftortreat

What I Want to Teach My Kids About Diwali

Diwali, such a beautiful Indian festival. One filled with light, literally, love, prayer and family...and eating.

As generations go by, it may be that some traditions get changed,  some foods get updated, and things like decor and how we celebrate may evolve.  This is alright, so long as the basic premise and reason why we celebrate isn't lost. 

I want to teach my kids some important things about Diwali, as Hindus celebrate, and hope that a few of these traditions will carry on.

The Story of Ramayan
I grew up learning and loving the stories of Lord Rama. How he came to Earth, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, to one day battle evil that was taking place. His journey was one filled with trials and tribulations, but each feat teaches inner control, patience and respect for all things and people. It is a beautiful tale that is full of symbolism and teachings...of good conquers evil.
In one main part of the tale, Rama is sent to exile to live in the forest for 18years. The future King of Ayodhya obliges and is accompanied with his wife and brother as they set out on an epic adventure. It is said that there was a darkness that spread through Ayodhya during this exile. However, after the 18 years and a large battle between Ravan and Rama, where good defeats bad, Lord Ram returns and claims his throne. The entire kingdom is lit with lights and candles and there are celebrations beyond delight. In every corner they shone light to show the immense happiness that came. That marks the celebration of Diwali, the return of King Lord Rama and the end of darkness.
On Diwali diya and candles are lit everywhere to represent this celebration.

Goddess Lakshmi
Light is also representative of Goddess Lakshmi in the Hindu religion. Letting light in is inviting her in, she blesses the home with wealth and prosperity to those who welcome her and offer her prayer and love.
So on Diwali, we light our diyas and pray, pray for an auspicious year and to bless our families.
We also decorate our entrance with Rangoli. This is coloured rice in a pattern. They say those that adorn their entrance with colour and beauty and light are inviting Lakshmi into their lives. 

The lights, the diyas, the sweets galore, the rangoli, and just being with family on this day...is what I want my kids to carry on. The basic premise, that's all....how and why we decorate our home and being together in that day. 

Photo courtesy of Askideas.com

The next day, after Diwali, is the new year. This is really to embark on the new goals you have set and let anything negative go, a restart...to be taken with positivity and happiness. 

Diwali really, in the end, is about a happy feeling...spreading joy, believing that good things will come, and to feel love in and out.  That is truly what it symbolizes and has always meant to be the bottom takeaway. Even in all the stories...we celebrate because of goodness and love. 

I hope and pray for this beautiful holiday to live on. It may look a little different from year to year, but some things, shouldn't change too much. 

As we prepare this year, I will keep in mind to tell my children the stories and hope they love its meaning and symbolism as much as I do.

Photo courtesy of Indialine.com

She is off...She's a walkin, She's a Screamin'

Oh this little girl of mine.  She is such a little one...so tiny and petite and cute...and LOUD.

Rayna's personality is emerging full-force and what is it projecting?  It's stammering loudly a "Do not mess with me people!"  My little precious angel is quite content playing with my pots and pans, trying to scale the TV stand, and trying to touch anything she isn't supposed to.  Our place is kid-friendly, but this kid will figure out a way to make us gasp.  She knows it's wrong but will ignore our tone and give us a smirk while doing it too.

Oh she's so cute you would never guess she is a menace in the making.

Oh and the biggest feat Rayna has conquered...she is walking.  This is beyond cute as she used to stumble and fall because of walking way too fast.  Now she has mastered taking her steps slower, so she is getting better and better at it.  To be honest,  though I love seeing her develop more and more, I was in no rush.

No rush because she is my baby.  But also, she is going to be trouble...I feel it in my bones.

You know what though,  she is a cute little girl, and maybe being a tough cookie isn't a bad thing.  A matter of fact,  it will serve her well...so I hope that part stays in tact.

Oh Ray...as she balances to stay on her feet, she is definitely keeping us on her toes!

I love you my little menace. 

Easy-Peasy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a remix of some ideas I  have been seeing floating around. As always I do some trial and error and come up with my own.

I am always into making really great snacks for the kids that are healthy but they will enjoy. However, these cookies could also double up as a breakfast addition.

It's easy, fast and only requires 3 ingredients!!

Yes you heard right.

Give it a go people!

Ingredients:
2 bananas
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
1 cup of rolled oats
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (or raisins or craisins or dried fruit)

Steps:
Cut up the bananas and mash it up good. If you choose, add the sugar and vanilla at this stage. I sometimes add it, I sometimes don't, but it does enhance the taste a tad and also makes for mashing the bananas a bit easier.

Mix in the rolled oats, mix well.

Add chocolate chips and mix.

On a greased cookie sheet, scoop out the mixture in small balls. Pat it slighty to shape as small pucks (it is ok if not all uniform).

Bake at 350°F for about 20 min.

Cool.

Enjoy.

Vama Life Wellness: Doula, Wellness & Beauty for all Moms

I am so excited to share with you this new service available.  It is local,  it is centered around natural health, and focuses on woman health, particularly pregnancy through motherhood. It is a must-know for all moms out there in Vancouver. I must state that this is not a sponsored post, but I truly love letting moms and mom-to-bes know about great local products and services that are super useful.

I invite you all to learn about Vama Life Wellness. If you need a doula or all natural and safe (pre and post pregnancy) beauty care products, this is the company to seek. They are hosting an amazing "Meet the Doula" night as well, read on for more details.


In this post we cover:

• What is Vama Life Wellness

• Learn about Arti, the Doula

• Meet the Doula Event - Sept.20th, 2016

• Vama Life Wellness Beauty & Body Care Products for moms

• Q and A with Arti

Learn about Arti, the Doula

• Goddess Scrub

• Goddess O Bath Salts

• Herbal Sitz Bath (for mommas recovering postpartum)

• Belly butter

• Natural bug sprays (specifically formulated for moms and babies and a natural spray for everyone)

I personally have been using the Goddess scrub and can't live without it now, it is amazing, natural exfoliant and moisturizing. I know that all these products are safe but also effective in terms of skin care, given Arti's passion and interests and knowledge surrounding women and the whole birthing process through to baby care. I had no hesitancy using it while nursing because all the ingredients were natural and known to me.

What is Vama Life Wellness

“VAMA” (Sanskrit; For Beautiful Women).

VAMA life is a locally owned and operated Wellness company. VAMA life is committed to providing women and their families with Labor Support Care services from prenatal to postpartum and education. 

Originally the company was created to raise awareness to safe birthing practices through fact-based and holistic strategies, to help women cope in labour, and help partners better support the moms.
Vama Life Wellness, as of now, includes birthing and baby doula services as well as a line of beauty and body care products.

Arti Naidu first started in the Health and Wellness field by working as an aesthetician for many years. She met countless women that would share stories of pregnancy and birth with her. She found their stories to be intriguing and decided to learn more about the process. After meeting a group of midwives, she discovered what a doula decided to look more into becoming a doula; 2 years later she witnessed her first birth and her life changed. 

Arti has been attending births since 2014 and has witnesses 8 births. 
"A part of what I love most about being a doula is educating and raising awareness about the Doula profession. It's still not a common knowledge to most people and I love that it always sparks an interesting conversation", says Arti.

You can find Arti at https://doulamatch.net/profile/13154/arti-naidu

Meet the Doula Event - Sept.20th, 2016

Vama Life is hosting a "Meet Your Doula" night, on September 20th, at Kings Cafe, 2223 Kingsway, from 8-10pm.

This is an event with other birth professionals. It is a free, informal, meet and greet, where expecting parents can come to learn more about how doulas support mothers and their partners prenatally, during labour and postpartum.

Please follow this link to learn more and RSVP:  https://www.facebook.com/events/519960464865428/

Vama Life Wellness Beauty & Body Care Products for moms

Vama Life Wellness Products were designed with pregnant and breastfeeding moms in mind. Although all the products are safe for everyone to use, they were created to ensure safe usage for pregnancy in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters and for moms that are nursing. All products are hand made locally using all natural ingredients.

The line of products includes:

"These products have become my little baby and a passion project. I really feel like I'm in my happy place when I am formulating them. With anything the line is still a work in progress, It's still very new and I am always trying to improve the formulations." - Arti Naidu

To learn how to get these products please read the Q and A or contact Arti directly.

Q and A with Arti

I wanted to bring awareness to Vama Life Wellness because of its unique catering to mothers and the fact that the services and products are truly great. To learn a bit more I sat down to do a little Q and A.

Why did you become a doula?

I truly believe that being a Doula is my calling. I feel like all my experiences and training have lead down the path of being a birth worker. I love that I get to support women and their partners through on the the biggest transformations they will ever go through. That to me is exactly why i became a doula just to offer space and support.

Why is a doula so important these days?

Many families especially in the city may not have that "village" that others might. Nowadays families and extended families might not be near by to offer support. Having a doula can offer some of that support. On the other hand I see families that might be well supported but they simply don't feel like it's an ideal situation to have them present at the birth. Doulas are a great way to relive anxiety for those parents.

What made you want to start your own beauty line?

My product line started as a hobby first. I made scrubs one Christmas for all my friends and they wanted more so I started selling them. Who i started to develop each product i wanted to tie it into my doula work so I decided to first start to develop my products with pregnant women in mind. 

What products do you think new moms or mom-to-bes will benefit most from and why?

A couple of my favourite products are VLW Belly Butter to help minimize and prevent the look of stretch marks for expecting moms. I also love the Herbal Sitz Bath for mother recovering after birth. It helps to aid in a faster recovery to help heal and tears or lacerations. I also highly recommend the Goddess Scrub. its a great way to naturally nourish the skin, brighten and reduce or prevent stretch marks by exfoliation and nourishing at the same time.

Where can people buy these products?

I am currently in a couple of stores and a spa. You can find VLW Products at The Basement by Loyal Coalition in located in the heart of Gastown, Joanna Keller Beautique on West Hastings also in Gastown, Blissful Beauty Lounge in Burnaby, The Brow Vault by Reena Kholi in East Vancouver, Kings Cafe on Kingsway and Mark's Pharmacy on Scott Road in Surrey! 

So there it is, a synopsis of Vama Life Wellness  and how it benefits all mommas.

Again please attend the Meet Your Doula night.  Link here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/519960464865428/

Or to connect with Arti please visit here:

https://doulamatch.net/profile/13154/arti-naidu

First day of Preschool

My baby, my first baby, so grown up.

This day is bittersweet. I am so happy he is ready for school and such a good boy, generally, and loves to learn. However, this is a sign of how fast time is going.

I was a little nervous preparing, me and Vick both were. I was frantically setting out his clothes, all the things for him to take, and praying on the potty Gods that he would be okay in that department.  The truth is, I dont think the nervousness was to do with him and how he would be. It is letting him go a little. He is at an age where he needs to now learn to take instruction from others, learn to make friends on own and so forth.  In that sense, you cannot hover over and it's time.  But how did we get there so fast?

As I dressed him and took his picture, I was thinking just how big he suddenly looks.  On our drive I talked about how I will be back to pick him up and not to worry. He said "otay momma."

As we got to the door, he saw toys and kids. He let go of my hand, shook his teacher's hand and let go of mine. He ran into the class and didn't look back. I left and sat at a coffee shop, here, now, to write my reflection.  And I had to message Vick, as I did...water welled up in the lower cringes of my eye, like a ravine collecting water. I fought the sudden urge to ball...but the emotion is raw. 

I'm not a baby...it's just that my baby is no longer a baby. Awww...my first...so proud.

Xoxoxo