Enjoying #FordMindfulness With Ford Canada and the #FordEdge

We should all take the time to be mindful in our daily lives. Life can get crazy, and it's nice to stop and have some downtime for ourselves whenever possible. I recently had the pleasure of enjoying an amazing mindfulness experience with Ford Canada, and am so excited to share my experience with you!

My journey began downtown Toronto, with the amazing Ford Edge Titanium and a wonderful yoga instructor by the name of YuMee. YuMee showed me some great ways to stay mindful behind the wheel while driving.

With the CN Tower as an amazing backdrop, YuMee and I enjoyed a wonderful session, where I could stretch and relax my muscles both in and out of the vehicle.

After the session, I drove away with the Edge for a WEEK! If you have never driven this vehicle, I highly recommend that you give it a try. You won't regret it. I have never experienced a quieter ride in any other vehicle. The quieter engine makes driving on road trips incredibly peaceful.

Completing the yoga session with YuMee made me realize all of the things I was doing while driving that added to my stress level. Here are a few great tips to help keep you mindful behind the wheel.

1. Take the time to stretch before you drive.

I am the WORST when it comes to stretching. My session with YuMee showed me how important it is to feel as limber as possible before entering a car, as it is to feel comfortable inside the vehicle. Take the time to loosen your muscles if you can before driving.

A great option for stretching is the Triangle Pose. Stand straight, with your feet a metre apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees, and turn your left foot in 15 degrees. Lift your arms to shoulder height, and inhale.

Reach your right arm to the right side, and exhale. Lower your right hand to your inner shin, raising your left hand towards the sky. Look up, extend your neck, and breathe deeply five times. Repeat this sequence on the other side.

2. Make sure to sit with care.

Before you drive, make sure you're seated properly in the vehicle. Take advantage of the 10-Way Power Driver and Passenger Seats in the 2016 Ford Edge. This feature is a great way to find your perfect seating position, while getting the lower back support you need. I personally love this option, as my back is always sore after driving for long periods of time.

Sit as far back into the seat as possible, keeping your head, pelvis, and ribs in a straight line. If you spend long periods of time in your vehicle, the key to a happy back is sitting with the bones of your spine in a joint stacked position.

If you find that your back is sore while driving, use the heated seats option in the Edge to soothe the pain. Save the money you would use for a massage, and enjoy this quick fix instead!

3. Get a grip!

I spend tons of time driving on the 401, going back and forth between Kitchener and Toronto. One of the things I tend to do as soon as I enter the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is tense up and clench the steering wheel. I blame traffic, construction, and erratic drivers for this habit! 

I never thought about how this repetitive action can cause a lot of stress on my wrists. If this is something you experience, take the time to be mindful of this activity.

If you're holding onto the wheel too tight, take a few seconds after you have stopped the vehicle to rotate your wrists, and give your hands a loose shake. Your wrists will thank you for it!

4. Tune in, and tune up.

Before you hit the road, take advantage of the Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls. This is a great way to loosen up tightness and discomfort in your back. Place the balls between the seat and your back, in n area that feels tight. Add pressure on the ball, letting it slowly work on any trigger points where you are experiencing pain.

It took me a little while to get used to using the balls, but I have noticed that my back is not as tight as it has been in the past on my road trips down the 401.

5. Stay mindful.

Whether you're on a road trip, stuck in traffic, or commuting to work, it's important to remain mindful while behind the wheel. Make use of the innovative driver assist technology available in the Ford Edge. It can help you remain calm, centred, and mindful while driving.

There are some convenient technologies available in the Edge, such as the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®). This helps you drive worry-free and use radar to let you know when a vehicle is hidden in your blind spot.

This is a fantastic feature in the Edge! There is nothing worse than not knowing who is in your blind spot while driving. I have seen way too many accidents on the highway, and this feature can really help prevent split-second mishaps.

My mindfulness journey continued after lunch with a great session at Float Toronto. For those of you who have never heard of float sessions, floating involves lying in a tank filled with a salt water solution.

You may also have heard of it being referred to as a float tank, isolation tank, or sensory deprivation tank. Fighting gravity won't be an issue here, as the solution is made up of 10 inches of water, and 850 pounds of Epsom salts.

I had never experienced anything like this before, and it truly helps to shut out the noise and stresses in our lives. It also allows our bodies and minds to relax.

I will admit that the one thing I had a hard time with was closing the door of the sensory tank. I'm a little claustrophobic, so I kept the door open (which is ok, as I was in a room all by myself).

Floating has some amazing key benefits for your body:

1. Relaxation Response - Floating weightless in the tank helps your body with general recuperation, replenishment of digestive secretions, and relaxation.
2. Use in Athletic Training - The salt water solution has an added benefit of being saturated with Epsom Salts. These help in the body's healing process, drawing out lactic acid buildup and toxins in your body. They also speed up recovery time after workouts and runs!
3. Increased Immune Function - Immune function is enhanced by suppressing stress hormones. They weaken the immune system, suppress digestion and reproductive systems, decrease insulin sensitivity, and affect the regeneration process.

Floating also has some great benefits for your mind:

1. Stress Reduction - This is one of my favourite reasons to float! Our everyday lives are filled with many demands, and all kinds of stress. Floatation therapy is the most powerful stress therapy technique known.
2. Improved Creativity - Studies have shown that six float sessions helped people have more creative ideas, and increased their free imagery. A study with 40 university students showed that a single float session increased their scores on a standardized test used to measure creativity.

My float session was a pretty interesting experience. If you decide to try it, here are a few of my own personal tips and takeaways:

• Don't shave the day of your float session! The salt solution is intense, and will make your skin sting if you shave before your appointment.
• Be prepared to shower after your session, and wash your hair, if needed. I tried to avoid getting my hair wet, but salt clung to every inch of me. The bonus was that my skin was soft and glowing after the session!
• Use the floatation devices provided outside the float tank, to help you stay above the salt water solution. I found them to be very useful.
• To prevent getting salt water in your ears, use the earplugs provided during your session. If you get salt in your ears, use the vinegar solution provided to rinse out your ears.
• Limit food and drink before floating, to avoid bathroom trips while you're trying to relax. 

I had a great time driving the Ford Edge all over Ontario, from Kitchener and Stratford to Toronto. Using the featured technologies helped to enhance my experience. Here are a few of my favorite features of the Edge.

• Enhanced Active Park Assist - If you're like me, and aren't comfortable parallel or reverse parking, this feature will make you feel like a pro in no time. The 12 ultrasonic sensors and available active park assist can identify suitable parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. I found myself searching for places to parallel park while I had the vehicle. The Park Out Assist helps steer the vehicle out of tight parallel parking spaces, while side parking sensors watch the back, front, and sides of the vehicle.
• Available Lane-Keeping System - I love how innovative this feature is! The Edge sensed when I was veering out of my lane, and warned me by having the steering wheel vibrate. It went a step further by steering itself back into my lane. That's amazing!
• Voice-Activated Sync® 3 - This is my favorite feature in the Edge. Sync® 3 allows you to stay focused on the road, while making client or personal calls with the push of a button and the sound of your voice. It makes navigating to your destination really easy, and searches for music on your phone and SiriusXM Satellite Radio a breeze.
• All-Climate Comfort - With the crazy changes in weather we experience in Southwestern Ontario, having the option to have heated or cooled seats in the Edge is a huge plus! The rear seats have optional heated seats, and the front has the option for heated or cooled seats (which is the best thing in humid weather). On several occasions, I used both options while driving the Edge.

In addition to the float session, Ford also provided me with a mindful experience of my choice. In my opinion, there is nothing more relaxing than a hot stone massage, to get rid of stress, aches and pains. I was excited to visit my favourite Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) at Total Skin and Body Anti-Aging Spa in Kitchener.

I have experienced many different types of massages at a variety of spas, but there isn't anyone like my RMT Kelly. She's so good, it takes a long time to book an appointment with her. I was incredibly lucky to get some time with her! Kelly has been my massage therapist for years, and I always leave feeling like I'm floating on a cloud of bliss.

Between the heat therapy, hot stones and amazing massage, Kelly released months of tension and stress from my body. I was able to unplug and unwind, and was falling asleep by the end of the session. That's what I call an incredibly mindful experience!

If you have never tried a hot stone massage, I highly recommend that you do in the future. I slept like a baby that night.

I had an great week with the Ford Edge Titanium, and happily recommend it to anyone interested in a stylish SUV filled with amazing technology. It was a sad day for me when I had to return the vehicle. Thank you so much to Ford Canada for a wonderfully mindful experience!

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post, but Ford Canada provided me with the Ford Edge vehicle for the week, the float session at Float Toronto, and a gift card to use for my hot stone massage. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Yoga 101: My Beginner's Guide To Getting Started!

I am definitely not an expert in the area of yoga. One of the things my doctor always says to me when I visit for my annual physical is that I need to do more to remove stress from my life. She recommends things like stretching, massages, and yoga classes! I love massages, but felt incredibly clueless when it comes to yoga.

When I decided to start incorporating yoga into my life, I approached it from a Yoga 101 perspective. Here are some helpful tips on how I introduced myself to the wonderful world of yoga.

1. Find classes that are right for you, and geared to your comfort level.

I have heard great things about hot yoga, but the thought of sweating through a yoga class in a hot room makes me nauseous! If you are new to yoga, do some research, and find a few great yoga studios in the city you live in.

Many of the studios offer introduction classes, or packages that offer you with an opportunity to try several classes at a reduced fee, for a limited period of time. This allows you to find classes that you enjoy and are most comfortable with.

I have taken a few classes in the past, but never had a set routine, or attended classes on a regular basis. Here are a few of the classes I have tried to develop a better understanding of yoga for myself:

• Yoga Basics - This class is great for beginners, and allows you to practice yoga at a moderate rate, while improving your overall strength and flexibility. It also helps you develop an understanding of basic yoga postures.
• Hour Flow - Flow helps you get through a varied sequence of active and standing floor postures. What I like about this class is that the emphasis is placed on deep breathing, strength building, and a lot of fun! This is a winning combination for me.
• CoreFlow Yoga - This class is a solid hour of fluid core work! In this class, you play hard, sweat, and build core strength, without having to do endless sit-ups or crunches (which I am not a fan of).

Another option is to try free classes, where available. I live in Kitchener, and there is a great option called Yoga In The Park. Every Wednesday and Sunday, Victoria Park offers a free outdoor class, in collaboration with Queen Street Yoga. These classes are beginner friendly, and open to people of all ages.

One of the websites I have used to find great deals on yoga classes is Groupon. Groupon is a fantastic place to find deals, and you can tailor the site to find options specifically for your area. I can't tell you how many amazing deals I have scooped up here.

There are always several deals on Groupon for yoga classes. For people who are unsure where to begin in the world of yoga, and are looking for a great price on classes, make sure to add your email address to their mailing list. You'll receive emails for deals on a variety of classes!

2. Invest in some useful yoga equipment and accessories.

You don't need to spend a fortune to practice yoga, but you should invest in a few good accessories for your classes. I definitely recommend a good yoga mat and bag to carry your water bottle, and other personal items. Personally, I like Gaiam Canada's 5mm Premium Reversible Yoga Mat - Be Free. It's large, comfortable, and I can mix up the colours and flip it over for a nice change. The patterns are different on both sides, and the mat itself is extra thick, which offers added cushioning and support.

For yoga newbies like myself, the textured, 'sticky' non-slip surface is great, as it helps to keep me in place, no matter what pose I am trying to execute. Another bonus of this mat is that it is made of PVC, and without the six most harmful phthalates. As a result, this mat is a healthier choice for both you and the planet.

I am always running to something, whether it's a workout class or appointments. I love Gaiam Canada's Metro Gym Bag, because it's perfect for holding all my personal items, and it's also super stylish! It also has a cinch cord at the underside of the bag to hold your yoga mat. I use it all the time for day trips to the city, and it has multiple pockets to hold anything you need to take long for yoga classes, appointments, or events!

If you are like me, you aren't 100% flexible, and can get sore after attempting to manoeuver your body in multiple poses! To get rid of aches and kinks, I use the Restore by Gaiam Deep Tissue Foam Roller. This is an amazing item, as it's designed to work deep layers of tissue, while withstanding repeated use. It also stimulates blood flow, targeting and soothing your aches faster.

When I started taking yoga classes, I was very sore, and this item was a huge game changer for me. It helped target my sore spots much faster, and get through the pain quickly. I highly recommend using this after a yoga class or run!

No matter what type of yoga class you sign up for, it's important to stay hydrated, especially in the hot summer weather! A water bottle is a must, so that you stay properly hydrated, and don't suffer from dehydration.

Another item I find extremely useful is a yoga mat spray. After a sweaty class, it's nice to give my mat a few sprays, to avoid any unwanted odours. I keep it in my bag, along with the rest of my personal items. I found mine at well.ca, but there are plenty of other stores that carry this item. My spray smells amazing, and also doubles as a pretty great room spray!

3. Dress comfortably, and in clothing that allows you to stretch properly, and lets your skin breathe through the sweat!

As much as I love Lululemon, those outfits can be pretty expensive! I found a great brand called Hyba, available exclusively at Reitmans. It's very cute, and super affordable. I sweat through my runs and workouts, and knew that I would need clothing that allows my skin to breathe, and lets me stretch properly during my sessions.

I picked up some great pieces that are great for yoga and running, so I didn't have to spend tons of money on multiple outfits. One thing to remember is make sure your clothes aren't too tight. You need to be able to move and stretch. If you're like me, you like to look cute while you're working out! Hyba has some incredible pieces in a variety of styles and colours. Check them out online, or at a Reitmans store near you.

Yoga is a wonderful way to stretch, find your inner zen, and help you relax. It's also a fantastic way to increase strength, balance, stamina and flexibility, as well as reduce stress. I hope you find these tips useful, and that you give yoga a try. You don't need to be an expert to enjoy the benefits of yoga. Good luck, and Namaste! 

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post, but was provided with my Gaiam Premium Reversible Yoga Mat, and Metro Gym Bag. All of the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Enjoy Stress-Free Parking with HonkMobile!

There is nothing worse than having to scrounge for change when you're trying to park your car in a public lot. I always try to make sure that I have change or a credit card in my wallet for these situations, but when you forget to bring your wallet, all of that goes out the window! I'm sure many people can relate to this dilemma.

When I heard about HonkMobile, I'll admit that I was really excited. Having an app that does all the work in searching for nearby lots for you, as well as giving the price breakdown, AND being able to pre-pay!? Sign me up! My days of scrounging for change are over, and I love it.

Downloading the HonkMobile App is super easy, and once you have the app installed, all you need to do is set up your profile, and add your vehicle license plate and credit card information. All that's left is to park, pay, and go!

I spend tons of time driving, both locally, on the 401, and all over the GTA. With all of the changes in the Kitchener-Waterloo area due to construction, it's not always easy to find parking when your choices become severely limited in the downtown core. Thanks to HonkMobile, all I need to do is tap on the app, search for a location nearby, and pay for my parking! It has saved me by being able to park a few blocks away from my destination, and not having to pay a crazy amount of money in a public lot, or underground parking.

When I come to Toronto, I am usually meeting with clients, attending events, going to dinner at a great restaurant, or enjoying a game/concert. Paying $25 or $30 on the day of an event can be really annoying, especially when you factor in tickets for the event, a meal, and beverages. It can get incredibly pricey! Using the HonkMobile app to find available parking lots before I head down to the GTA is not only incredibly helpful, it's also a great way to save money towards my outing! Definitely a win-win in my books.

If you're like me, you have been caught in nasty downpours or snowstorms, waiting patiently for your turn at the meter to buy time and get your ticket printed. With HonkMobile, you can pay before you even leave your vehicle!

Another great advantage to using HonkMobile is being notified when your parking is going to expire. If your parking is going to run out before getting back to the lot you are parked in, HonkMobile will send a notification, prompting you to top up your parking if needed.

This is a great way to avoid those nasty parking tickets! Nothing is worse than being a few minutes late, and getting a ticket that is several times the cost of the actual parking! You can kiss those frustrating days goodbye, thanks to the helpful notifications.

Are you renting or borrowing another vehicle temporarily? The HonkMobile app allows you to add multiple license plates to your account, so you don't have to worry about which vehicle you pay for when dealing with parking.

If you're not using your driveway, or are away during work hours, you can earn some extra money by participating in a parking share program. HonkQ is the latest addition to HonkMobile, providing the ability to list your driveway as a parking spot.

Now that you know all the great benefits of this amazing app, it's time you give HonkMobile a try, so you can see how easy and convenient it is to park, pay, and go! I would love to offer you a $5.00 parking coupon offer for HonkMobile. This is good for your FIRST USE ONLY of the app. Please use the code LINES when paying for your parking.

A coupon is nice, but how would you like to win a year of FREE PARKING!? That's right, HonkMobile is giving away a year of free parking, and that person could be you. During the month of May, there is a #SpotTheLot contest taking place. When you see a HonkMobile lot around town, tweet about it using the #SpotTheLot hashtag, or mention it on Facebook, and enter to win! You have tons of chances to win, and you can enter daily. The contest runs until June 1. Good luck!

I hope you join the legion of #HappyHonkers, download the HonkMobile app on your phone, and start enjoying stress-free parking wherever you are. You can find Honk Mobile on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post; however, the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

The Perfect Staycation Combination: UP Express and Fairmont Royal York!

Recently, I was lucky enough to enjoy an amazing influencer experience with the Fairmont Royal York Hotel and UP Express. For those of you who have not had the pleasure of staying at this iconic hotel that is steeped in history (it officially became the Royal York in 1929), I highly suggest that you book a staycation ASAP, and enjoy all there is to offer by staying at this gorgeous hotel.

Not only is it close to tons of restaurants, tourist attractions, and sporting and entertainment venues, it's mere steps from GO buses and trains, TTC, and the incredible UP Express train that takes you to Pearson Airport. Warning: once you check in, you'll want to stay for good!

My experience with the Fairmont Royal York and UP Express started with a ride on the UP Express from Pearson Airport to Union Station. After dropping off my luggage at the hotel, I hopped on the UP Express to meet up with everyone at the airport. The boarding area for UP Express is easy to find, and trains run every 15 minutes.

The trip from Union Station to Pearson is only 25 minutes, and is so comfortably fast and equipped with WiFi to happily distract you while texting or working, you`re at the airport before you know it. There are also tons of outlets to use to charge your phones, tablets, and laptops!

The trains are incredibly clean, and the rates are super reasonable! There are a variety of options to choose, ranging from one-way trips, family passes, and layover fares. Pretty much any scenario you can think of, UP Express has got you covered!

Once I arrived at the airport, I was greeted by the fabulous marketing team from the Fairmont Royal York, and gifted with a lovely goody bag filled with treats to enjoy later (macaroons and honey made from the beehives located on the rooftop at the hotel). We met up with the other influencers, and enjoyed a great story about how UP Express became a reality. The view from Pearson is pretty awesome. You can actually see the CN Tower from the station!

UP Express leaving Pearson

Finally, we were off to Union Station on the train! The ride was super smooth, and filled with great views of the city. If you need a fast and fun way to get around the city, and to get into town for sporting events, concerts, or other fun activities, take the UP Express. It's not just a method of transportation to get to the airport!

Upon our arrival to Union Station, it was a quick walk across the street to the gorgeous Royal York Hotel to check in! I never get tired of walking by this gorgeous and iconic hotel. It's always incredibly busy at the intersection, but we all took the time to snap a few quick pictures before the light changed colour to cross the street!

Walking into the hotel, we were greeted warmly by several staff members, and were given our keys to our respective rooms. A quick tour of the lobby, and we all went our separate ways to get settled into our rooms for some downtime before meeting up for dinner.

I have been to the hotel before, but only for events, so staying overnight was a huge treat for me. I was greeted to an incredibly comfortable room. The hotel has gone through a huge renovation, and the rooms have all been updated. I must say, if this is hotel living, please sign me up ASAP! Now I understand why some people live in hotels!

I decided to spend some time exploring the underground shops and grab some treats to watch a little Y&R (one of my guilty pleasures!) before dinner. I love how incredibly convenient it is to not have to leave the building to do some retail therapy!

When I returned to my room, I was just about to settle in for some downtime and must-see TV, when there was a knock at the door. I was greeted with another lovely surprise from the hotel, in the form of some delicious treats, lavender tea, lavender bath salts, and a magazine to indulge in before dinner! Talk about VIP Treatment. The Royal York was truly spoiling me!

Finally, it was time to head down to dinner at Epic, to meet with the other influencers and the marketing team. Let me tell you, I have been to many events and dinners. This one really tops my list of incredible experiences!! From the personalized napkins with our Twitter handles, to the lovely meal and wine parings from the incredibly talented Chef Josh Dyer, I was swooning over every lovely detail!

We started our dining experience with a fabulous signature cocktail, appropriately named the 'Epictini' (named after Epic Restaurant, where dinner was taking place). This was a gorgeous drink made from Appleton Lemon Vodka, simple syrup, sparkling wine, muddled raspberries, lemon and lime. Garnished with raspberries and an edible flower, it was as stunning as it was delicious! The perfect way to start our meal.

Speaking of meals, this was definitely one of 'Epic' proportions! Our Wild Ontario themed dinner started with an incredible Amuse Bouche, consisting of a Pesto Puree, Pickled Carrot, and Waygu Beef. Following this, the first course was Diver Scallops with Fennel Pollen, Ontario Pickled and Raw Radish, with Celeriac Puree and Seabuckthorn Berries. It was beyond delicious and stunning to look at!

The second course was wildly decadent! We indulged in Willowgrove Hill Pork, with Braised Belly, Rye Berries, Linseed, Roof Top Honey (straight from the rooftop at the Fairmont Royal York!), and Hazelnuts. Beyond delectable, and like nothing I have ever tasted before. Chef Dyer was on fire with this meal, and happily came out to chat with us about the courses and tasting menu.

Our third course consisted of Venison Tenderloin, with Wild Blueberries, Raisin Puree, Brussels Sprout, and Duck Prosciutto Hash. I don't usually eat venison or duck, but I have to say it was so tasty and different. The menu was so thoughtfully prepared, with no details spared by Chef Dyer!

Our final course was dessert. Chef Dyer prepared an Epic Signature Dark Chocolate Truffle, with Griottes Cherries. I loved how there were edible gold flakes placed on the cherries! The dessert was paired with a 2009 port. Hashtag #matchmadeinheaven!

Dinner was an epic success (no pun intended!), and I remember blissfully returning to my room, getting ready for bed, and falling asleep the minute my head hit the pillow! I had the most blissful sleep in the most comfortable bed, with a whole night of uninterrupted sleep (a record for me!)

Our VIP experience continued the next morning over breakfast at Epic Restaurant. We were treated to a fabulous buffer breakfast, the kind I have never experienced before. I have tried many buffet type breakfasts in my lifetime, but nothing was quite like the one we had here. Executive Chef Robert Mills has put together some amazing items for guests to feast upon, including an unbelievable omelet station! Guests are able to choose from a variety of different toppings, whole eggs or egg whites. The possibilities are endless! I chose a ham, asparagus, bell peppers, mushrooms, feta cheese and whole eggs omelet. What I was given was a work of art!

I had an amazing stay at this beautiful hotel, and was sad to leave. My only regret was that I didn't have enough time to enjoy the pool, gym, and spa facilities. This just means I will have to come back for another staycation!

I would like to thank the fabulous team at the Royal York Hotel, for welcoming me and spoiling me rotten. No detail was left out, and it exceeded my expectations, and then some! If you want pure class, elegance, and an unforgettable experience, I highly recommend this hotel. You won't regret it!

Disclaimer: As part of the influencer experience, I was provided with an overnight stay at the hotel. All of the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Loving #LifeIn4K With Rogers and Samsung

Like everyone else across the nation, I was swept up in the fever of the dream season the Toronto Blue Jays had in 2015. The boys in blue were outstanding, and there is nothing like being at the ballpark when the Jays are hot at bat, and in the outfield. Watching them make it to the American League Championship Series was the stuff fans dream of!

I can still remember watching the Jays win the World Series in 1993 and 1994, and being at the home game in 2003 where Carlos Delgado hit four home runs. Special moments like those are never forgotten, and are a reminder of why fans enjoy watching the game so much.

When I heard about Rogers and Samsung partnering to broadcast hockey games in 4K, I knew that watching games would be taken to a whole new level! I had the pleasure of attending a special event at Real Sports in Toronto, where we were able to watch a Toronto Maple Leafs game in 4K. This was also the first time any hockey game was broadcast in 4K! The quality was outstanding, and the picture was crystal clear. I wanted my own 4K TV on the spot!!

Fast forward to Rogers announcing that they would be broadcasting all the Blue Jays home games, and I was silently wishing I had one of those babies in my living room! Little did I know that Rogers and Samsung would make that dream a reality. When I received the invite to become part of a group of influencers that would be promoting the beauty of watching Jays games in 4K, I JUMPED at the opportunity!

I was already in love with my 39" Samsung TV, but my new 55" SAMSUNG SUHD 4K TV and Rogers NextBox 4K set-top box (the bad boy that allows me to watch all 81 Jays games in 4K!) blew it right out of the park. When the cable guy came over and helped me with the setup, we both stared and DROOLED at the picture quality.

I'll admit that I sat for about an hour, totally blown away at the size of the picture, and how everything seemed to pop off the screen. It has taken my viewing experience to new levels of enjoyment!

To christen the new TV, I hosted a viewing party for the Jays home opener for my family and a few close friends, who all enjoyed the 4K experience and cheering on the boys in blue!

I'm sure many of you are wondering what exactly is so great about a 4K TV. The 4K experience offers four times the resolution of HD, giving you greater clarity and sharper reduction. The 4K advantage in live sports also allows for super close zooms for fastballs, and slow motion replays. This is perfect for checking out close calls and stolen bases!

I have been enjoying the TV for a few weeks, and it definitely lives up to the hype. The quality of the picture is cinematic, the colours are stunning, and the images are so lifelike, I feel like they're going to jump off my screen into my living room. That's pretty impressive.

One of my favourite features of the Samsung 4K SUHD TV is the minimalist design. I was worried that my TV stand wouldn't be large enough for the TV, but the redefined and slim design was a perfect fit for my stand and living room! This is a total bonus in my books.

For those of you who love the Toronto Blue Jays, Rogers and Sportsnet are producing and broadcasting all of the Jays 81 Home Games in 4K! There are currently two 24/7 Sportsnet 4K feeds (the first in North America!). Sportsnet 4K is on Channel 998, and SportsnetONE 4K is on Channel 997. Both are home to all the Blue Jays action in 4K.

If you love watching other shows that aren't sports related, Rogers will be providing additional 4K content, which will include TV shows, movies, original series, and 4K content on demand on Shomi. Stay tuned!

If there was one thing that would make my experience with the Samsung 4K SUHD TV perfect, it would be the ability to PVR and pause my shows for quick breaks. Sadly, this version does not have this option. Here's hoping it will be available down the road!

I'm thrilled to be part of this incredible experience with Rogers and Samsung, and will be sharing more Jays experiences with you through my blog, and on social media throughout the season. Follow the #LifeIn4K hashtag, and follow me on Twitter and Instagram (@sassygirlcanada). Go Jays Go!!

Disclaimer: I have partnered with Rogers and Samsung to share my #LifeIn4K experiences with you, and received a Samsung 4K SUHD TV and Rogers NextBox 4K cable box for participating. All of the opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Show Love For Your Winter Footwear By Protecting Them With #TanaLovesShoes!

I was recently fortunate enough to have a special VIP shoe shopping experience at Stance Shoes, as part of the #TanaLovesShoes campaign. I had never heard of Stance before, and since we don’t have a location in Kitchener, I travelled to Lime Ridge Mall in Hamilton for an afternoon of shopping and Tana product knowledge. Not only did I pick up some great footwear, I learned tons of helpful information and tips on how to protect and care for my footwear!

Stance is a Canadian company that was founded in 2004. It is part of the Arlies Corporation that also owns the Boathouse chain of clothing stores. There are 13 Stance stores across Canada that offer both name brand products such as Hunter, Doc Martens and New Balance Canada, and in-house brands exclusive to Stance such as Harlow (footwear), and Scout and Trail, an accessory line (i.e. hats, gloves, scarves).

When I arrived at Stance, I was greeted by Tyler, who is an amazing sales associate. Tyler was incredibly patient in helping me with all the styles and sizes of boots that I was interested in trying on, and provided great feedback on what styles looked the best. He even took a few pictures for me to use for my blog post! That’s great customer service in my books. Tyler explained that the styles available in the store change with the seasons. The majority of styles I saw in the store were sneakers and boots, but other seasonal types of shoes are available in the spring and summer months.

After spending about 40 minutes trying on many styles, sizes and colours, I found a great pair of boots that will be perfect for the fall and winter seasons. I also picked up a very sassy scarf from the Made For Each Other line of accessories, which a Boathouse line of products. Keep reading to find out what style I purchased! Living in a snowbelt region, having the right type of footwear is crucial for the crazy winter months!

Half the battle when you go shoe shopping is finding a great pair of shoes that suit your purpose, and fit your style. The other thing to consider is how to properly care for the footwear after you bring them home. As someone who loves shoes and has tons of pairs and styles at home, it’s important that I take care of them, so they remain in good condition.

I am so grateful that Tyler took the time to explain the different types of products that Tana had available in-store to purchase and use. Here is a high-level breakdown of some of the Tana products you can choose from. For a full list of products and information, make sure to check out the Tana website.

All Purpose Spray

• Function: To repel the elements, and resist stains
• Benefits: This product creates an invisible shield, allowing the material to breathe as it repels the elements and prevents dirt from setting for easier cleaning.
• Spray your footwear twice before wearing them outdoors
•  Keep using this spray at least once a week (two times a week is ideal)
• This spray works on all types of material except Crocodile. As Tyler says, "Leave your shoes in the 60's!"

Sport Cleaner

• Function: Fast acting cleaner - just spray and wipe
• Benefits: Ideal for athletic leather shoes, and it dries in 10 minutes
• Used for leather, vinyl and nylon
• Clean the footwear using the bristles
• Great for getting out dirt embedded in footwear

Polishing Cloth

• Function: To polish and clean your footwear 
• Benefits: Cleaning your shoe completely before applying spray will keep them in ideal condition
• Did you know that this product can also be used to clean and polish cars?

Sport Shoe Freshener   

• Function: Controls shoe and sneaker odour all day long
• Benefits: All day heel to toe freshness, is fast acting, and works on contact
• Gets out odours and bacteria your feet produce while wearing your footwear
• Use for preservation of the boot

Tana Self Shoe Cream

• Function: Polishes, protects and nourishes
• Benefits: Contains superior self-shining waxes and lanolin to provide an instant shine with no buffing, protection against rain and stain, nourishment to keep leather soft. Easy to apply, convenient applicator tube.

Barefoot (Unisex product)

• Function: Dry and fresh barefoot comfort
• Benefits: The special terry cloth layer helps keep feet dry. Antibacterial agents and tiny perforations for breathability keep feet fresh.
• Will last up to six months
• Machine washable (let them air dry)
• Make sure to wash the insoles 

Ball of Foot

• Function: For the sensitive ball of foot area. Feel confident in any shoe.
• Benefits: Helps prevent burning pain in the sensitive ball of foot areas.
• Ideal for heels and wedges
• Waitresses love this product, as they spend so much time on their feet

Currently, Tana has an amazing promotion available on their products at Stance that is available in-store only. You can select three of any of their products for $25.00! You can find more information on the products at www.stance.com .

I am so thankful for all the product knowledge I received on the extensive line of Tana products, and wish I had this knowledge several years ago! I have made mistakes in the past by not taking proper care of my footwear. Six years ago,I destroyed a pair of amazing brown suede boots I purchased during a Black Friday trip to Buffalo! Personally, I have found that suede is tougher to take care of than leather or synthetic products. Had I known then what I know now, I would still have my gorgeous Nine West slouch boots that were perfect for shopping trips!

How did I destroy the boots? They were not practical for harsh winter weather, as they weren’t lined for warmth. Foolishly, I made the mistake of wearing them after a large snowfall. Long story short, they ended up soaked and covered in salt, and I didn’t know how to remove the stains. Instead of treating the stains immediately, I left the boots as they were. I tried several different things to remove the salt stains, but nothing worked. Finally, I made the painful decision to throw the boots out, and I still mourn them to this day. Not only were they a great deal, but they were cute and unique!

I’m so excited to tell you about the great boots I selected for myself during my VIP shopping experience! I chose a pair of black boots from the Harlow line, created exclusively for Stance stores. Harlow footwear is super affordable and stylish. Make sure to check out their sassy footwear! My boots, called the ‘Maggie’, are made of synthetic leather, and are lined for warmth and comfort during the cold winter months. These beauties will be protected using an all-purpose spray, and lined with Barefoot insoles. I can’t wait to wear them with my extensive collection of jeans! During my shopping trip, I selected the Barefoot, Tana Sport Cleaner and Sport Shoe Freshener for my boots, which Tyler had recommended to me.

A very cool piece of information I learned while shopping is that my boots are made by Cougar, whose line of footwear I adore! In fact, Cougar makes many of the boots featured at Stance. I used to wear Cougars back in my school days, and started wearing them again last winter. I was pleasantly surprised by this information. Thanks Tyler!  

I had an amazing time shopping at Stance, love my new boots, and can’t wait to wear them soon. What does shoe love mean to you? Share your love for shoes by taking a picture of your favourite shoes, and post them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Use the hashtag #TanaLovesShoes, and you could win some one of six bi-weekly prizes of $500.00, and a chance to win the Grand Prize of $2000.00!!! For additional entries, make sure to include Tana shoe products in your pictures. You can also enter to win here: http://tanacontest.com/en. 

In addition, you can also participate in an amazing Twitter party this evening (November 17), from 8:00-9:00 PM ET, for a chance to win one of six $50.00 VISA gift cards, or the Grand Prize of a $500.00! Now that's what I call a party! 

Good luck, and happy shopping!

Disclaimer: While I received compensation for this post, the opinions expressed are entirely my own.