Black Pearl Life Style

This is a great, seasonal craft for the kids (albeit messy), but some great options available that make the process easier. Walmart sells 'fake'eggs (impressive considering the price) that come with dye and display egg carton. I would recommend newspaper and/or plastic covering anything within a 2 meter radius and wipes at the ready. The end result is wonderful and the kids love it. Happy Easter! Here's a link! https://www.walmart.ca/en/kc/how-to-dye-easter-eggs/KC1427732697000

If you're looking for an edgy, darkly humorous, well made thriller/horror, we'd recommend 'Get Out'. With some strong political and socio-economic themes inter-woven with a mind-blowingly horrifying story, the movie is compelling with great acting and though provoking moments. Revolving around a wealthy family who invite their preppy daughter and new boyfriend home for the weekend. The issues surrounding race are confronted from the onset, suggesting an underlying theme, and one that is hard to contemplate as the film progresses. Check it out! Here's the link http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5052448/?ref_=nv_sr_1

It's pretty hard to avoid candy during the Easter holiday but there are plenty of ideas for alternatives to be found on the internet these days. From scavenger hunts with clues hidden in plastic eggs to baking extravaganzas, check out Pinterest for some easy ideas. The dollar store is always packed with cheaper options too. Happy Easter folks! Here's a great link http://www.yummymummyclub.ca/blogs/caroline-fernandez-activity-mummy/5-candy-free-easter-ideas

Annihilation is a ground breaking sci-fi, directed by Alex Garland (Ex-Machina), innovative as it's global release was primarily streamed through Netflix. Starring Natalie Portman and Oscar Issacs, the movie is a cerebral, creepy, engaging thriller/ sci-fi depicting (what we understand to be) an alien invasion. The acting is strong, particularly from the supporting roles, although the two leads are well cast. The CGI is effective, despite being a notch down from what we're used to seeing from the Marvel/ Star Wars franchise, but on point considering the story, as to no detract from the drama. Worth a watch.  Here's the link! http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2798920/

Home made Pizza is such a quick, easy and simple way to prepare a home cooked meal and a great introduction for kids to the kitchen. I use store-bought dough but the kids can help with spreading the tomato sauce and adding toppings. It's a great way to get them involved, give them independence and teach some basic cooking skills. I transfer the (hot) dough onto the kitchen counter using parchment to avoid contact with the hot metal cooking tray. It's a good way to reaffirm safety in the kitchen, especially around hot foods and the oven. Magnus liked to nibble the toppings pre-oven... another potential/ good teaching moment. I tend to make a huge batch of marinara prior to the event and add goodies like bell pepper, carrot and sometimes even zucchini (then blend) for added nutritional benefit. 

These are incredible soap stone pieces by Edmond Wolf. We are selling the entire lot on consignment for a Gentleman moving away from the region. He was planning on establishing a store but after plans changed, he needs to offload these stunning works. Great for a gift store, these mini sculptures are beautifully crafted. Contact Darren in store for more info or email darren.blackpearl@gmail.com  

We've missed the day but in tribute to World Dog day, please let us introduce our pup (and mascot) Josie the Puli. Pulik  (plural) are a Hungarian breed of working herding dogs, famous for their 'dread locked' appearance. After significant work from our devoted groomer (a post on her to follow), we decided to clip Josie in order that it better suit her lifestyle. She's a spirited pup with a number of complicated issues..but we love her dearly.

This blog is great! Spring cleaning often feels like a formidable task. With this great list, full of easy-to-implement cleaning ideas, we're feeling (almost) ready for Spring. Tips include, take shoes off at the door, and use a squidgy tool to clean your shower after each use. Seems so straight forward, but can save you minutes at the back end when the time comes to do a 'deep clean'. Here's the link! https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/a4010/spotless-home-habits/

For a active & educational day with the kids, we would highly recommend Smart Moves play place in Barrie. It's a great facility, with a 'science' theme, although the main goal is fun and adventure through play. There are a plethora of fantastic installations and would suit little ones through to older kids ( the larger play structures would entertain much older kids). I was very satisfied with the locking gates at the entrance with a stamp system to identify the caregiver with their respective children. Washrooms and Cafe are also great. Tailor made for kids at a great price ($12 per child). Highly recommend.  Here's the link! http://www.smartmovesplayplace.com/

We are having a cold Spring. There has been unusual activity on the Bay this year. Some may have heard of the 'Ice Wall' in Meaford. In Wasaga Beach, after having a relatively mild winter with reduced ice formation, the Bay is now frozen as far as the eye can see. Quite stunning with the clear skies we are having this week. Here's a link about the Meaford 'Blue Ice' https://barrie.ctvnews.ca/large-ice-wall-has-formed-around-the-shoreline-in-meaford-1.3831463

Spring is here and time to Spring Clean and Declutter. The blog listed below has a fantastic monthly declutter chart to follow. It breaks it down, making it way less intimidating with loads of tips....one kitchen drawer a day, purge your make up bags, discard old books, etc etc. There is always something to clean. Make it your Spring Time Resolution! Here's the link http://loveandmarriageblog.com/30-day-de-clutter-challenge/

It's the first day of Spring! We celebrated with a snowy walk. The Spring Equinox 2018 officially commenced at 12:15pm today but there were certainly no daffodils poking their heads out of the ground to great us this Spring. Snow suits are still hanging on the coat hooks but the sun was shining - A great boost for morale AND vitamin D levels. Life in Collingwood is still well and truly frozen.

Jewelry of all kinds requires cleaning and maintenance. We have some lovely pieces of costume jewelry in store. They often succumb to dust and dirt after being kept in jewelry boxes or stuffed in drawers. A great tip is to mix a couple of drops of baby shampoo with water and then gently scrub the jewelry until clean. Simple, easy and sparkly! Here's a great link http://cleanmyspace.com/how-to-clean-costume-jewelry/

This hatching dinosaur toy is absolute gold for anyone with small kids. After you purchase the egg, it needs to be submerged in water. The egg 'hatches' over the course of 2 to 3 days. Kids revel in excitement as the egg cracks, exposing the baby dinosaur, and can monitor its progress. A genius idea, great learning tool and at a great price! Here's the Amazon link ( although they are cheaper at Elephant Thoughts for any Collingwood locals) https://www.amazon.ca/lotusandlime-TY63-Hatching-Dinosaur-Egg/dp/B00160C8NK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521418952&sr=8-1&keywords=hatching+dinosaur+egg

Oakville Skating Rink in Wasaga may be coming to the end of its season, but this March cold snap has meant some extra skating days for keen skaters. We are learning, and loving, this free, local rink that provides a heated changing facility as well as being regularly maintained. Lots of fun on the ice!  Here's the link! https://www.oakville.ca/culturerec/public-skating.html

This is such an easy craft for the kids. It's fun and the finished work is fantastic! Just keep any old toilet rolls and find some paint. Use scissors, ( good training for the kids too) and cut lines around the toilet roll on one side. Once bent, this forms a toilet roll 'paint brush'. Use wildly and expressively! Here are some pic from our afternoon! 

Having grown up with Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit and friends, I was delighted to have a mama/ daughter date with this cheeky bunny. This modern day rendition is funny with great visuals. It's slapstick and will likely upset a few die hard potter fans, however, for a light-hearted March Break activity, it was great fun.   Here's a link http://www.imdb.com/title/tt5117670/

It's important to find fun things to do during March Break. Elephant Thoughts is a fabulous organisation, with a retail store in Collingwood (a regular pit stop for the kids and I). We played with foam and planted seeds, as well as check out our friends the Lemurs and Turtles. Read about the work Elephant Thoughts does World Wide! Here's the link! https://www.facebook.com/elephantthoughts/

 Such a fun way to spend March Break in Wasaga Beach. The Tree Fort is a new soft play area for kids. It's small but has a vast array of activities available. The kids were instantly compelled to explore and the area is small enough that you can see what's happening at all times (something that is impossible in the bigger soft play areas). Well worth the trip Here's the facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/thetreefortkidsfunzone/

This is such a fun activity with kids. Planting seeds provides so many life lessons as well as being exciting and engaging. After choosing and purchasing the seeds and potting soil, we planted Brussel Sprouts, Cilantro, Basil and Parsley. Still a little early, but Ella was keen. It's messy but well worth it and so rewarding for everyone to watch as the sprouts poke through the soil.  Here's a great resource https://teaching2and3yearolds.com/how-to-plant-seeds-with-kids/

Despite only recently learning the phrase, I'm a passionate 'plogger'. Starting the Sweden, the craze of picking up litter while out for a run is picking up momentum here in North America. By running with the double stroller, which comes equipped with undercarriage storage, it's perfect for plastic bottles and cereal boxes. We're staying active, getting outdoors and cleaning up the local environment...one piece at a time!  Here's a good link https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/the-new-eco-friendly-scandinavian-fitness-trend/70004201

Day light savings have come around again and 'Spring Forward' means one less hour of sleep (and one extra espresso in the morning). Advice to sail through the time change, include maintaining a bedtime routine, no naps, stay active in the daytime and avoid coffee, alcohol, screens etc in the evening. Easier said than done... especially with young kids. Good luck folks!  Here's a great link https://health.clevelandclinic.org/daylight-savings-time-change-4-tips-to-help-your-body-adjust/

The Maclaren Gallery in Barrie is one of the largest in Simcoe County, housing exhibitions from all over the World. A beautiful space, the gallery is home to some exquisite works and provides a creative sanctuary in the heart of bustling Barrie. I was submitting artworks to the 2018 Benefactor Show. This piece, "Flying Through Algonquin" (30" x 40", Acrylic on Canvas), will be featured in the show which starts next week. Here's the link to the gallery! https://maclarenart.com/

The Niagara Escarpment runs from New York state, through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois. It is the longest escarpment formed out of the Great Lakes Basin, the most popular modern day tourist attraction being Niagara Falls. Collingwood is nestled in the shadows of the Escarpment, Osler Bluffs and Blue Mountain, overlooking the town and providing year round appeal to locals and tourists alike.  Here's a link https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niagara_Escarpment

One of our favorite ales of recent years is St. Ambroise from the McAuslan Brewery in Montreal. Deep and robust with a pure, fresh taste, those who like wheat beers will appreciate this local brew. Despite not claiming to be organic, the clean aroma has that feel. Found in most LCBO and some grocery stores.  Here's a link to the brewery http://mcauslan.com/en/beer-facts/?brand=st-ambroise-en&id=447

We are avid hikers and today, explored a new local trail, 'Mission Trail', a small loop of the Bruce Trail that starts off a side street on the 6th Street Extension. After hiking up the escarpment, babies on our backs, we hopped onto the trail leading to a cascading waterfall. The trails are still ice-covered in part, so crampons are highly recommended during the shoulder seasons. The Bruce Trail runs from Niagara River to the tip of Tobermory, Ontario with opportunity to join and explore the trail along the way.  Here's a great link with more info about the Bruce Trail http://brucetrail.org/explore/27-featured-hike-osler-bluff-lookout-blue-mountains-club

We are thrilled with our new 'Tiny Footprints' plates. Made from sustainable, bamboo fiber, dishwasher safe and look, totally adorable. I love steering (somewhat) away from plastics, particularly when using the dishwasher (on hot), day in, day out. At a great price point too. Two arrived as part of the order which was a nice surprise. Very pleased with this Amazon purchase. Here's the Amazon link! https://www.amazon.ca/Tiny-Footprint-63060-Plate-Print/dp/B01GHSQTBM/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1520283238&sr=8-2-fkmr0&keywords=tiny+hands+plate+owl

Ella made one of these fabulous bird feeders at school last week so we decided to replicate the craft as it was so successful. We also purchased a bag of 'chilli flavored, squirrel proofed, wild bird seed' and will be interested to see whether the 'squirrel proofing' provides adequate squirrel protection. By cutting holes in the juice carton and adding a piece of string, the remaining container is a perfect receptacle of the bird seed. Makes for great bird-spotting too!  Here's a great link! https://www.fancymomma.com/milk-carton-juice-carton-bird-feeder/

This is a quick shout out to my good friend Laura and her blog 'Moving Stones'. Some great posts focused on the environment. It's well written, interesting and current. Our World is changing and we need to stay abreast of these changes in order to make the decisions about how to live and help our The Earth. As a side note, check out the post about Baby Hiking, a nod to our hiking group in Georgian Triangle! http://movingstones.ca/welcome-to-moving-stones/

Dealing with stress can be debilitating. The inclusion of a Vitamin B complex into the diet has been shown to increase metabolic function thereby relieving mental and physical stress. The supplementation of B Vitamins can also help with memory and stress perception in those deficient. B Vitamins are also also found in chicken, eggs and leafy greens.  Here's a great link and where you'll find this fabulous 'B' https://supplementsinreview.com/stress/b-vitamins-stress/

After having been genuinely surprised at how charming, well written and addictive, Mindy Kalen's The Mindy Project, I delighted in the release of the Final Season on Netflix. We follow the life and romantic whirlwind of Mindy, a successful OBGYN in her equally dysfunctional doctor's office. The one-liners are razor sharp and hilarious. The casting, the most part, has been exemplary. Mindy is eccentric yet like-able with a fabulous wardrobe. I'll try and stretch out this final season but sense there may be a marathon in my future. here's the link! http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2211129/?ref_=ttmi_tt