GoTeamKate
  • GoTeamKate
  • MomBeast (Couch to Crossfit)
  • Entertainment/Shopping
  • Contact Us
  • Writing Services
  • Basic Bitch Baking
  • Photos by Kate
  • Photo Gallery
  • Diary of a Dad
  • The Diagnosis
  • Shanell's Portfolio
  • Shop
  • Help and Advice

Entertainment/Shopping

3 Ways to Make Your Home a Healthier and Safer Environment for Your Family

9/18/2019

8 Comments

 
All children differ in their range of abilities and interests, but one thing that most children have in common no matter their age istheir curiosity. Children will somehow find themselves in some of the most precarious and dangerous situations around the home, and while all they want to do is explore and learn, they can sometimes end up bringing harm to themselves. Not only is there a risk of injury around the home, but there are also many harmful toxins, parabens, carcinogens and germs which can go unnoticed in the air and on the surfaces around the home which are harmful to the health of your family. For these reasons and more, it is important to find ways to make the home environment safer for everyone, so here are some simple tips on how you can do just that.

Guard against accident and injury

Due to the curious nature of children, some bumps and bruises along the way as they explore the world are to be expected, but as parents its only natural to want to make the home a safe haven for your children. Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to make your home a little safer, such as lowering your water heater to 120 degrees F, as 140 degrees F can scold children in seconds, and always testing the water temperature before a child uses it. Additionally, some other points of reference would be to use safety locks on windows, and gates on staircases, to prevent accidental falls.

Avoid irritants and allergens

There are a range of indoor environmental pollutants which can easily go unnoticed in the atmosphere, as well as allergens which cling to material surfaces around the home. While there are simple steps which can be taken to avoid the worst of these substances, such as creating a smoke-free environment and protecting against mold, these only protect against the more visible threats. To protect against allergens, you might also consider using a hypoallergenic memory foam mattress topper in each of your bedrooms, as this stops mattresses for becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and dust mites. Additionally, it is beneficial to use as many natural cleaning products as you can, and avoid using toxic anti-bacterial sprays and pesticides around the home which may contaminate the air and irritate the skin.

Test for harmful gases

Many parents know the importance of having, and regularly testing, any and all fire alarms in the home to guard their family against the threat of fire. However, there are many households that do not utilize carbon monoxide monitors, which are also incredibly important in any homes where gas is used, such as forheating or cooking utensils, as well as in homes where open fires are used. Moreover, there are even fewer parents who know about the harmful effects that high levels of radon, a radioactive gas which is naturally released when uranium breaks down in soil, rocks, and water, can have on their family’s health and wellbeing. Thankfully, there are simple test kits available to check the environment around the home for such dangerous substances, in order to provide you with some peace of mind.
8 Comments

The Ultimate Power Wardrobe - How to Build a Corporate Office Appropriate Wardrobe that Gives You Confidence

9/18/2019

0 Comments

 
Have you recently been promoted in a corporate office? Maybe it’s not a recent promotion, rather you are just looking to re-establish your role in the company and ensure your experience, skills, and confidence is clear. There are plenty of steps you can take to solidify your career within the company, but part of that senior level position you possess includes looking the part. Dressing in a way that is not only corporate office appropriate, but also exudes confidence and power, can help you to create the kind of persona that is necessary at work.
Here we’ll take a look at the steps you can take to build the ultimate power wardrobe, from the staple pieces to the accessories that will make a difference.
Look to High End Accessories Rather than Passing Trends
One thing that people can fall victim to is chasing the latest trends. While it may seem fashionable to pick the latest accessories showing up in the fashion magazines, the fact is that you want to focus more on quality and longevity in order to exude that air of power and confidence. Typically, the more traditional pieces tend to work better in the corporate office setting. Now that’s not to say you can’t accessorize with style;it just means you shouldn’t focus so much on the current trend.
Some of the best items to pick up include design brand purses and totes that can double as a briefcase, if you will. Take a look at some of these Saint Laurent bags from SSENSE, which range in size and purpose. You'll find everything from bags that resemble a tote - perfect for storing a small tablet and notebook in - to more traditional sized purses that act as a stylish and timeless accessory. Even the brand itself is one that exudes power and confidence, and is synonymous with some of the most striking designs out there.
SSENSE is well-known, not just for its selection of Saint Laurent bags, but also for other top designer bags, so you can really pick and choose what works best for your wardrobe and personal style.
Of course, your purse is just one of many accessories you can pick up; there is also jewelry, scarves, belts, and more. Again,you want to focus on high-end pieces that make a statement rather than just follow a passing trend. Another tip is to focus on one item at a time. Let’s say for example you have a lovely statement brooch - using that as your only accessory will create a much more powerful statement than loading on all kinds of items at once.
The Structured Blazer is a Must
Another must-have item in your wardrobe is a blazer, which is a no-brainer, but where you want to be particular is with the cut and fit. Look for a structured blazer that has wide shoulders, fits perfectly to your body, and has a more formal feel to it. It’s a huge step up from the typical off-the-rack blazer that so many people wear, and it will give you a much more put-together vibe.
It’s also a good idea to stick to the basic colors when picking up blazers. Your standard colors of black, navy, and brown may seem dull, but they are corporate office appropriate and are easy to pair with other pieces. Remember, you can add that sense of individual style back in with your accessories.
In order to get that perfect fit, keep in mind that it may also be necessary to have your blazer tailored. Simply purchasing a structured blazer isn’t always going to cut it; sometimes you may need the sleeves shortened, the waist taken in, an extra button added or moved, etc.
A Monotone Look Always Look Powerful
Another tip is to go ahead and embrace the monotone look. Choosing one color palette and wearing it from top to bottom, including your footwear and accessories, is a great way to look empowered. Your outfit won’t be fighting with certain elements, everything will just flow, and often a monotone look commands attention – exactly what you want in that corporate senior position.
Some of the best colors to play out that monotone look with include various shades of gray, light grays in particular, navy, cream, white, and tan or camel.
Don't be Afraid of a Pop of Color
On the other side of the spectrum, we have a bold pop of color, which can also be a great style moment in the office. Don't be afraid to go ahead and work in that bright pop of pink, red, purple, or green. Just be sure to use it as a pop rather than an all-over color palette.
Dressing the Part
Each of these tips will help you to dress the part and not only look put-together, but exude confidence in the corporate office setting.
0 Comments

Etchr Sketchbook

9/5/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
As an admitted art supply addict, I have spent more than my fair share of money on everything from student-grade watercolours, to ‘who-am-I-kidding’ artist level Golden paints. I’ve tried everything and every brand, and after years of exploring, I’ve finally found my absolute, hands-down favorite artist brand out there. I am NOT being paid to say this, though this company has been kind enough to send me items in the past, for review.

Etchr, creator of the field case, the art satchel and much more, have now come out with a sketchbook to beat them all. I have collaborated with Etchr in the past, and obsessively use my field case. So, I was especially excited to try out this latest creation.


Guys, the design is so chic, and the cold press watercolour paper is so luxurious. You’d think they want the artists representing them to have a little more skill, than say this hobby artist mom, but here’s the thing, these supplies are for everyone, and Etchr puts their money where their mouth is and spreads to love to artists of all levels.

0 Comments

Horace and Co. Personalized Books For Children

4/8/2019

10 Comments

 
Picture
​Horace and Co. ​ were kind enough to send Kate a sweet, personalized book this month. It's a book about a little Hamster that must face her fear of unknown foods at a picnic. For kids with autism, this is a common theme. If you're a regular reader of this blog, it will be no surprise to you that Kate has some pretty next level food aversion. She has about ten foods that she will eat at the moment, and most other things are off limits completely. These personalized books help kids like Kate by allowing them to relate to the story about the character sharing their name and their particular issue. 


These are the sweetest little social stories, and kids get a real kick out of seeing their name in print. You can choose from a story about a Hamster's Disgusting Picnic (which was perfect for our Kate), a Wibbly-Wobbly Dinosaur or a Robot that likes to be alone.  

10 Comments

PopupPoetryShop

2/12/2019

7 Comments

 
Picture
Hey Guys, 
​
I found the absolutely most magical Harry Potter Surprise Box at PopupPoetryShop.  This handmade gem is full of everything only a true fan would appreciate.

The Chocolate Snitch might be my favourite but my kids were definitely more into the Sorting Cauldron and the Original Dementor Cure! 

I just adore this lady and her well-curated boxes. It's not just for the Harry Potter fans, either. Check out her shop or the slide show below for more of her great creations. 
7 Comments

Etchr Lab

7/22/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Have you guys heard of Etchr yet? It’s this really high end company that creates these amazing artist bags and accessories. I was lucky enough to recently receive the Etchr artist bag and accompanying field case and I’m hooked. I’ve piled everything I need to art out in the world into the bag (which has so much room) and I’ve packed some of my favourite pens and markers in the field case and I’m ready to art anywhere, anytime.


This bag is so versatile it can be set-up as a messenger bag, a backpack and a standing easel.


I’m so grateful that this kick ass company let me try their amazing bags. Etchr, you just secured a customer for life.


Happy Shopping!
0 Comments

Palletful Packs Art Subscription

7/21/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
As a wannabe artist I’ve tried just about every artist subscription box out there. Paletteful Packs has come out as a strong favourite. I’m fairly sure a proper artist curated these boxes because they are full of high-end art supplies. I adored mine. I’ve been creating non-stop and if you follow my Instagram, you already know that. Give Palletful Packs some love and tell them I sent you.


Happy Shopping!
0 Comments

Harkla Weighted Blankets

7/10/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Guys! I’ve finally found the greatest weighted blanket out there and it only took me six years! Until now I really believed you had to make your own but Harkla has done it. These gorgeous blankets are so well-made and soft. And to make things easier their website is full of all the information you need to choose one for your child or yourself.

I feel great sharing the info about this great company with you.

Happy Shopping!
0 Comments

artisianimpact

5/14/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
I've been wanting a family ring for a very long time, but it's been difficult to find a unique piece of jewelry that speaks to me. I knew I wanted to support an artist, and I knew I wanted it to be made in Canada, so I started searching and look what I found!

I became obsessed with artisianimpact and searched their Etsy shop at length looking for the perfect ring. 



I found it in this gorgeous gold and silver gemstone ring. I love that I won't be seeing this gorgeous piece on anyone else's finger. 

​
Happy Shopping!


0 Comments

Paperless Post

4/25/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Guys! Have you heard of  Paperless Post? 

I'll admit, I love stationary. I love the feel of it, I love sending it and receiving it in the actual mailbox, but Paperless Post has opened my eyes to a new world of online stationary, and I love it.  

The website is actually a pretty neat process, in that you get tokens and spend them on your projects. 

Have a birthday card to send? Design one here. 

Hosting a get-together? Check out these options for sending to your guests.

​Even professionals can create gorgeous online invites. 

Happy Shopping!

0 Comments
<<Previous

    Author

    A mom like you.

    RSS Feed

    Archives

    September 2019
    April 2019
    February 2019
    July 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    November 2013
    February 2013
    December 2012

    Do you have a product or service you would like featured?  Please contact me here.  

Contacts for Team Kate
Shanell Mouland
Alex Mouland

Blogs We Like
Rockstar Ronan


Links We Like
National Autism Centre
  The Greenspan Floortime Approach
  • GoTeamKate
  • MomBeast (Couch to Crossfit)
  • Entertainment/Shopping
  • Contact Us
  • Writing Services
  • Basic Bitch Baking
  • Photos by Kate
  • Photo Gallery
  • Diary of a Dad
  • The Diagnosis
  • Shanell's Portfolio
  • Shop
  • Help and Advice