Binky Magazine Volume 02

A Lifestyle Guide To The Magic Years

BINKY Kindness

is the new black

O-6 Y

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well hello.

Welcome back and happy Spring! After a very long winter, we are excited to launch our second issue of Binky Magazine. We are here to celebrate and enjoy the magic years of 0-6 with an eye to taking time out of your hectic day to appreciate beauty - be it in the form of time with your friends, a perfect outfit, or a beautiful moment with your little one. For those of you who read our inaugural issue of Binky Magazine, you may notice some design changes. We are trying out some new things and hope you like the direction we are headed in!

Thanks for stopping by.

Myla is full of bright smiles in this Tutu Du Monde dress from Enchanted Party

On the cover: Annie’s necklace is designed by Janis Savitt available at Me Style and the remainder of her outfit is her own. Georgia’s striped shirt is from Jacadi with a Tutu Du Monde skirt from Enchanted Party.

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Check out Rowan on a play date with Tristan and his fabulous expecting Mummy. pg. 42

Welcome Spring! pg. o9

05. Local

At home with Artist Alexis Fraser pg.38

06. Editorial

02. Heath

Bringing serenity into our lives through meditation pg. 12

How to be fashion forward while expecting, plus kids Spring trends pg.42

03. Feature Story

07. Travel

Annie Raphael on how to balance it all and not lose yourself in the process pg.20

04. Entertaining

How to throw the perfect baby shower pg.30

Keep your eyes on the prize! Tips on travelling with little ones pg. 58

08. Kids Corner Meet Myla pg.62

09. Je T’aime

What makes you smile? pg.65

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01. Letter from the Editors

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BINKY Volume 02

Editors Lara Teoli Melissa Picken Assistant Editor Caitlin Gray-Ronda Contributors Claire Kilgour Hervey Donna Christo Colleen McGill Photography Modern Baby Photo Editor Caitlin Gray-Ronda Makeup Kate Brooks Hailey Bogaert Graphic Design & Layout Caitlin Gray-Ronda Get in touch.

We’d love to hear from you! www.binkymagazine.com hello@binkymagazine.com

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Contributors Donna Christo Donna Christo has been a yoga and meditation practitioner for the past 17 years. Donna has taught in various yoga studios, corporations and private classes, as well as working for many years as an ambassador for Lululemon. Her passion has also spread into her performing life. Over the past 3 decades, she has starred in musicals, dance productions, theatre, films and television, including her recent feature in the 3D Blockbuster film, Pompeii starring Kit Harrington and Keifer Sutherland.

When she is not performing, teaching or practicing, Donna focuses on the lights of her life: her husband Mark of 11 years, and their two beautiful little girls, Stephanie 8 and Rylan 5.

Claire Kilgour Hervey From home renos to unforgettable events it’s an understatement to say Claire Kilgour Hervey is obsessed with planning! It’s no surprise that this mother of two (Cecily, 4 and James, 2) is the brainchild behind Darling & Ninth, Toronto’s premiere maternity and baby planning service. Inspired by the belief that a happy mommy is the best thing for any baby, Claire and her team work closely with expecting and new moms to ensure a beautiful beginning. www.darlingandninth.com

Colleen McGill Colleen McGill is an internationally recognized designer with a BA in Interior Design (and one in Economics!) who trained with Joe Brennan. Colleen is principal in the architectural and interior design firm McGill Design Group Inc. which is based in Toronto (www.mcgilldesign. ca). Recently, Colleen launched her own furniture line called Plum Furniture and Design Solutions (www.myplumdesign.com). In addition to being featured on the HGTV show “Top 10”, as well as numerous design magazines, Colleen’s work has been featured in Designers House alongside celebrity designers such as Aerin Lauder, Celerie Kemble and Jeffrey Alan Marks (www.designershouse.com).

While Colleen is so grateful to have a career that she loves, her most coveted title is that of mother and wife to Plum 13 months, Poppy 3, Reese 7 and her husband James. www.binkymagazine.com

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TELEPHONE. 416.486.0080

EMAIL. INFO@GEEBEAUTY.COM TWO ROXBOROUGH STREET WEST TORONTO

FIND US ON FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM @GEEBEAUTYSTUDIO + TWITTER @GEEBEAUTY GEEBEAUTY.COM

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Letter from the Editors It has been a long winter. As two Montreal natives, it was at first really nice to have a “real winter” with snow that actually stays on the ground, but then it kept going. Nerves frayed and kids started to get cabin fever.

Now that spring has *finally* arrived, we have been reflecting on the harsh winter and what it did to our headspace. If such a season were to happen again, is there a way to navigate it without such stress? Perhaps if we weave a bit more kindness into our every day, it would take the edge off.

The article by Donna Christo about introducing meditation to our everyday life, and that of our children, demonstrates how mindfulness and meditation can go a very long way.

If you are taking on a particularly stressful activity - like travelling with small children, or throwing a baby shower - check out our articles on the topic so that you can be prepared and alleviate some of that anxiety. This allows you to keep your eye on the end goal of planning activities that will bring your friends and family closer together and create life long memories.

Finally - we love to surround ourselves by positive people who enjoy life to the fullest and their enthusiasm for family and life becomes infectious. Annie Raphael is one of those people. Her smile LITERALLY lights up a room.We also met an amazing artist, Alexis Fraser, whose creativity is through the roof!

If we are more kind to ourselves, manage our expectations and just “take a breath”, happiness will follow. So while we are hoping for sunny skies, if the rain comes this season, lets navigate those challenging times with more kindness than usual and we can let the ripple effect take over.

XO Melissa + Lara

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JUST BREATHE.

By Donna Christo

There will always be darkness with the light, sadness with the joy, friction with the smooth, and stress with the peace. We need to know one to recognize the other. When it comes to living and raising children in this abundant and vibrant world full of stimulus, it is easy to become overwhelmed, take on more than we can handle, and be left feeling irritable and depleted. Our children are picking up on this too.

It all comes down to choices, using a discerning mind, choosing more of what nourishes you, and what fills you with joy. It will bring you back to more harmonious and peaceful place. Children find this easy; they are naturally in tune with their instincts and they do what naturally feels good.

However, with all the stimulus; electronics, TV, advertisements, noise, rushing from one activity to another, it becomes more challenging to listen to our instincts and to find that peace. Which is why, more than ever, unplugging from it all has become more necessary for a healthy state of mind for adults and children alike.

Taking the time to teach our children to meditate - or just breathe - is a beautiful way to bring this calm back to the lives of children and their parents. A consistent and simple practice every day is the most effective way to find balance once again. You can even enjoy this practice together with your children, and you will be amazed on how open and receptive they will be to learning this lifelong skill. Meditation, quite simply, is a singular point of focus. Often meditation is accompanied by focusing on the breath.

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Setting the breath before you begin your meditation practice sets the tone, the quality of your experience. And just by noticing your breath is a practice unto itself. Meditation is a time of listening inward. A time of ‘emptying’ all the thoughts and emotions that can accumulate during the day.

A time to relax as it is. Allow all your thoughts and feelings to rise as they do, and without judgement, or pushing them away, just notice them. Think of them as waves of an ocean rising, then relaxing back into itself. No need to attach or hold onto them, just notice. Hold your awareness gently on your breath and witness the waves of the ocean.

To experience this with your children, you can be anywhere. A walking meditation in nature, getting ready for school or enjoying an ice cream. Whatever you do and wherever you are, be fully present to that moment only, the tastes, sounds, smells, sights, how it feels, all of it. That is meditation.

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Before we had our children, I had a meditation practice that I cultivated over 8 years, to sit 1/2 hour in the morning, and 1/2 hour at night.

Then we had our first child... it all went out the window. I remember feeling like a mess; frustrated, anxious and disappointed in myself that I wasn’t continuing the way I did, yet I had this precious bundle that I didn’t want to part with!

The great advice I will share came from my first meditation/ yoga teacher: she reminded me to be kind and compassionate to myself, not to judge, and to relax as it is. I felt like I could breathe more and felt relief. She then brought in the huge distinction that the practice does not have to be separate. It is a one pointed focus anywhere I was.

I took the advice, and so in the middle the night during my night feed, I was able to cradle this crying baby in my loving arms, with such gentle focus, and turn it into a sacred practice; I began breathing slowly and easy, totally focused in the moment that became glorious. Not only I benefited from this relaxed, easy, nurturing energy, our baby quickly settled as she picked it up too.

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How to introduce the practice of meditation to your little one Space Dedicate a space for sacred time and create a ritual. It is easier to maintain a practice if you do it at the same time and same place every day. This can even be done in bed as the last thing you and your child do at night before sleeping.

Light

To do this with children, incorporate the imagination to engage them! Teach them that as you inhale, your belly fills up like a balloon, and on the exhale, it floats back down. Call it “ Balloon Breathing”. They can place their hands on their tummy to witness the breath.

Sound You may also include soothing music, or nature sounds. Have a chime, or a bell your child can ring to begin and end the practice.

Lighting a candle to begin is very soothing. You can teach your child that the candle flame represents what is inside each and everyone of us. It’s a great visual to ask your child, “in a dark room, if you light a candle, what would happen?” Wait for their answer. When they conclude the room will brighten, you can remind them of their power: it only takes one person to brighten a negative space, one person to turn a situation around for the best.

Children also respond to sound as having a calming effect. Play with your child the sounds of “Haaaa” “Hmmmn”. Ask which one they prefer: inhale deeply together, then exhale as long as you can “Haaaaaa”,or “Hmmmm”, or both. Teach them that they are letting go if their day with this sound, so they can just rest deeply now in their cozy bed.

Time

A State of Grace.

The amount of time for your child will vary depending on their attention span. One minute is better than nothing. On your own, 20 minutes is ideal; 10 minutes to settle, 10 minutes to enjoy a deep practice.

Whether you are practicing on your own, or with you children, saying “Thank you” three times at the end of each practice is what will send you into a state of gratitude. This can overflow into all aspects of your life.

Breath

Play a game with your children. Before you drift off to sleep, ask them, “ what are the 5 things you are grateful for?” Listen for their answers. Even if they are challenged to come up with one, say “your breath” without it you wouldn’t be here...

Often when we are stressed, busy, overwhelmed, our breath becomes short and shallow. This sends a message to your nervous system that you are in a fight-or-flight mode. This can also happen even if you are not stressed. As long as your breath is short, your nervous system puts in this order. To turn it around quickly, breathe slow, deep and even. Even when a stressful situation occurs, you will remain steady. The simplest practice is breathing in for 4 counts through your nose, and exhale for 4 counts through your nose.

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As the Dalai Lama says, “Children are the seeds of our future”. As we create these sound habits in ourselves and in our children, not only will you be setting a great example for your family, your children will have these tools that will benefit them for a lifetime.

With love and gratitude Donna Christo

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Annie is rocking a pair of Erickson Beamon earrings available from Me Style

Annie Raphael is 1/2 of Toronto’s “it couple” recently chosen to be one of the Holts Muse couples representing the Creative World. Annie is a graduate of the National Ballet School and after touring the world as a Ballerina, she came home to marry her love and open the York School of Dance. Annie’s partner in life is Avi Raphael, Partner at SlavinRaphael which is the premier fashion wholesale agency in Toronto.

We were lucky enough to have Annie and her three beautiful children (Georgia, 7 and 2 year old twins Rhys and Rogen) for a photoshoot and playtime.

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“I remember the first ballet I ever saw... The Nutcracker. I was mesmerized by the dancing, the beautiful costumes and the music. I never thought that I would be on stage dancing that same choreography just a few years later.”

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Tell us a bit about your family I’m Annie, age 35 - 39 (I honestly keep forgetting). Avi and I met at Western briefly but only started dating 7 years later. We made up for the time lapse with a quick 3 month proposal. Now we have been married for nearly 12 years so whatever people say about rushing in - it isn’t always true!

We have a fun and busy life. Avi is a partner in a large fashion wholesale agency, SlavinRaphael.

I am the director of York School of Dance. We have a daughter in Grade 1 and twin two year old sons. I hope we survive twin terrible twos! We live in North Toronto. We have family dinners every Friday night with our parents, grandparents, siblings and their kids. It’s our time to chat about the events in the week, current news, Oscar movies/fashion, and laugh.

The kids keep us busy on weekends: shuttling to and from play dates, skiing, swimming, birthday parties and more.

How did your life change when you went from being a family of 3 to a family of 5?

Avi calls it going from man-to-man defence to zone defence. When it was just Georgia in our lives, we had a normal car, now I drive a minivan. The secret is all minivan drivers love them!! The spacious house we moved into with Georgia suddenly seems to be busting at the seams. We are considering putting on an addition or moving into a larger place. Travelling is difficult. We recently

went to Miami with the family and the amount of luggage we brought was crazy. It looked like we were moving there.

How did you come to start the York School of Dance?

I remember the first ballet I ever saw...The Nutcracker. I was mesmerized by the dancing, the beautiful costumes and the music. I never thought that I would be on stage dancing that same choreography just a few years later.

At the age of 9, I auditioned for Canada’s National Ballet School. It was a very selective process whereby the staff choose 150 students from 2000 hopefuls from around the world. I was young and didn’t really understand the competition but I liked the training and friends I made. The school takes students from grades 5-12. Before I knew it, I made it through all the grades (a rare feat in the school) and upon graduation I was awarded a Canada Council Arts Grant in Dance from the federal government. I had the opportunity to dance with a number of dance companies in the UK, Europe and Scandinavia. I learned many new styles of ballet and character dance. When I returned to Canada, I dreamt of starting my own dance school built on the dance knowledge I had gained in Canada and abroad. I decided to put the dance world on hold for a few years and be a “normal kid.” My brother was at Western and insisted that I follow in his academic/ party footsteps the following year. I’m so glad I did it. I made incredible friendships, great memories and learned something too. When I www.binkymagazine.com

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“My tip is to do what makes you happy...if I’m going to be away from my kids, it has got to be time well spent.”

Rhys’ ensemble is from Advice from a Caterpillar Rogen is wearing Jacadi head to toe.

Georgia looks graceful in a tutu du monde dress from Enchanted Party.

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came back to Toronto from university, I got back on track with planning the school. The doors opened to York School of Dance in Fall 2001.

Do you have any tips for entrepreneurs out there?

My tip is to do what makes you happy... if I’m going to be away from my kids, it has got to be time well spent. I really enjoy walking into the Dance School. I know all the kids and parents by name. I treat every child that comes to York School of Dance the way I would want my daughter to be treated... with kindness, respect and personal attention. We have fun in the studio and before I know it, its the end of the day.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Mornings are the craziest. My son Rhys is an early riser...usually 5:45am. Georgia wakes up at 7am and Rogen joins the party at 7:30am. It’s a mad dash to get my kids fed, dressed, confirm homework is done, lunches and extra curricular items packed, and get out the door in time for school. Georgia attends a private school and loves it. I like it because the kids learn three languages, great values like giving to/thinking about others in need and an excellent academic curriculum. My boys attend a different program every morning. Art, music, sports, and play pretty much sum it up. I attend most of these programs with our nanny Myrna. She is like their 2nd mom. We work well together. I like to plan all the meals and cook them. Myrna is better with mealtimes. She can keep them distracted and

entertained long enough to fill them up! I leave for work at 2:30pm, pick up Georgia and bring her with me to work. Since having the twins, I cut back to a part time schedule of teaching 2 days a week. I still go to the school on my off days but I can bring the kids if I want.

If there was one thing you could change about your daily routine, what would it be?

I’d like to meet my husband for lunches. He makes me happy and so does good food. A winning combination.

You were recently named a Holt’s Muse along with your hubby Avi. How does a mom of 3, and an owner of a business, find time to maintain her cool factor?

I don’t consider myself cool, especially after the 6th diaper change of the day. I have fun with my life, don’t bog myself down with too much negative thought. I read good novels, watch Netflix, scan through Instagram and watch entertaining Youtube clips. I stay away from reality TV like the Bachelor, anything Kardashian and Housewives of XYZ. How do you and Avi keep the spark alive?

Avi and I have always reserved Saturday night as our date night. When Georgia was 8 weeks old we resumed these date nights. It was crucial for us both to get out of the house - free from the constant responsibility of caring for www.binkymagazine.com

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“There is nothing better about showing kindness than the sense of serenity you feel when you give it.” a baby. From 7pm - 11:30pm Saturday night, we are just a couple out on the town. We usually like to meet friends for dinner and drinks but we have gone to the movies if there’s something we’re dying to see. The twins are very demanding. Sometimes getting rest seems more important than a night out but we make the effort even if its just a walk or going for a drive. Its to remind ourselves that our relationship is the most important.

takes “no” for an answer and guides you to her side. 100% of the time.

What is your favourite thing about childhood?

What’s are some of your favourite spots in Toronto (where do you like to go for date night, fun with the kids...)

My favourite thing about childhood is having the time to jam in karate, ballet, drama, music, skiing, and skating into your weekly routine on top of school and memorizing all the words to the songs from Frozen.

What cute things are your kids doing right now?

Rhys - he’s learning how to navigate my iPad Mini. He has his own games and laughs at the screen.

Rogen - I call him the reporter. He talks for himself and Rhys...verbalizing what he sees as he goes through the day. He is also a master with facial expressions: he likes to blink his eyes when he’s receiving a compliment.

Georgia - she has developed a brilliant mind for dealing with conflict. When faced with a dilemma (i.e. you cannot sleep over at Sophie’s house) she methodically gives clear sound arguments, never 26 BINKY

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Where do you see your life in 10 years?

In 10 years...I see my daughter taking on a role in my dance school and my boys doing my bookkeeping, lol just kidding. I’ll be on a beach somewhere flipping through the latest Binky magazine of course!

Terroni on Price St, Cafe Bar Pasta, Soho House...

Any beauty secrets you can share?

Smile more. Makes everyone look better. So does black liquid liner and a good concealer.

Can you describe what kindness means to you?

Kindness comes in many different forms. To me, it means reaching out to a new mom to offer support/answer questions, setting up a playdate with the new kid in class, making chicken soup for a friend with a cold, offering to do pick up for a parent who is too swamped, and cooking my husband’s favourite dish after a long business trip. There is nothing better about showing kindness than the sense of serenity you feel when you give it.

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SHOWERS OF HAPPINESS Top five baby shower trends

By Claire Kilgour Hervey, Founder of Darling & Ninth

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You’re glowing, you’re showing and the pressure to have a baby shower is growing!

Rather than recoil in horror at the thought of stale finger sandwiches, endless gifts to open and silly games that require guests to measure your belly, why not try one of these cutting-edge baby shower trends on for size?

As part of Darling & Ninth’s maternity services we’ve worked with many pregnant clients to plan stunning baby showers and it’s clear that these days moms-to-be are putting a decidedly modern spin on stuffy traditional protocols. From an epic chic cocktail soiree to a dude-friendly affair, a 21st century baby shower need only honour the wishes of the expecting parents.

Whether it’s a friend, a colleague, family member or even you yourself who is hosting, this is your time to be pampered and celebrate the new life to come – in whatever style you select!

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1. The Cocktail Shower

4. The Sip-And-See

Let’s face it, weekends are prime time and most people don’t want to spend an entire Sunday afternoon sitting around sipping tea and gushing over cutesy baby clothes. If your circle of gal pals are in their natural habitat under the cover of darkness an evening cocktail-style party is the way to go. Send out an innovative invite, throw on your heels, crank up some tunes, stock the bar and plan to serve simple hors d’oeuvres in lieu of a full dinner. We guarantee a memorable event that will undoubtedly be memorialized on Instagram.

By the time you reach the 30-week mark you may be feeling uncomfortable in your own skin – and certainly in no mood to don a dress and be the centre of attention at a shower. But that doesn’t mean you have to skip it entirely! Many parents-to-be are deferring until after the baby is born. It’s a nice way to ensure that all your friends and relatives get a chance to meet your bundle of joy in one fell swoop rather than in a series of one-on-one visits that require you to change out of your sweatpants and tidy the house (both of which are monumental tasks for new moms).

The format that works best for this type of event is to host a drop-in over the course of a few hours to allow for a larger number of invitees. Set-up a basic buffet table for grazing and offer coffee, tea and cocktails so that your guests can “sip” while they “see” the baby.

2. The Gender Reveal Shower For many expecting parents it’s virtually impossible to wait until your due date to discover the sex of your baby. However compared to the excitement of a delivery room – “It’s a boy!” – declaration, it can be a somewhat lackluster experience to get the news in a clinical setting. Well, rejoice! Gender Reveal Showers are picking up in popularity as it allows the couple to announce the gender of their unborn babe to an enthusiastic audience.

You can even ask guests to make bets on the outcome. In some cases the mommy & daddy-to-be don’t even know themselves until the envelope is opened (just be sure to ask your doctor to seal it).

And you thought the Oscars had drama…

3. The Co-Ed Shower Baby showers have long been all-girl affairs but in this day-and-age of paternity leave and coparenting it’s increasingly common to include the father-to-be in the festivities. Just be sure to clearly indicate on the invite that it is a “couples shower” lest the dear ‘ole daddy-in-waiting winds up as the token male. And don’t forget to make sure the buffet table is man-friendly – fruit skewers, cosmos and sushi won’t cut it.

5. The Sprinkle If you ask Miss Manners she’ll probably tell you that a baby shower should only be given for the family’s first child. We pooh-pooh that policy!

The arrival of each and every child is a special and memorable event that should be cherished.

Sprinkles are small showers for a subsequent child. It is especially nice if there are more than four years between pregnancies or when the baby is of a different gender than the previous child. As the more modest name suggests, you will want to tone down the size and scale of the shindig. If you feel awkward about asking your inner circle to open up their wallets again simply request no gifts on the invite (which incidentally should be more along the lines of an Evite than custom letterpress in accordance with the low-key nature of this fete).

Now that you’ve planned the shower...

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THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX Clearly baby showers are breaking new ground so when it comes to gifting, dare to think beyond onesies and basic necessities. Whatever form your baby shower may take it’s always wise to set up a registry. Your guests will appreciate the guidance and you can ensure your nursery is well stocked and beautifully styled with items that suit your tastes.

Here’s how Darling & Ninth provides some of our favourite picks for unique, memorable and oh so special baby shower gifts...

#bonjourbaby

presents with presence

#greatexpectations

#decordiva #globallyconscious #blingiton

#decordiva

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The group gift has become a popular trend at baby showers. Rather than receiving 30 or 40 small items, the mom-to-be selects a bigticket item – like a stroller or nursing chair – and each attendee donates a set amount (generally in the $20-$40 range).

But if you’re the super organized type who already has everything, opt to register for a Newborn Photo Session from Modern Baby. From the comfort of their stunning studio space designed with a new mom’s needs in mind (think nursing chair, change table and refreshments), the creative team behind Modern Baby will capture all the newness and smallness of your precious bundle. Now that’s truly priceless.

Canadian moms will be très happy to discover that Jacadi now extends its timeless Parisian children’s clothing aesthetic into the nursery décor domain.

From bedding to bath toys, their home collection offers everything to prepare for baby’s arrival in shades of white, greys and neutrals that are soothing and sweet in any nursery. For a keepsake item that is both functional and fashionable, opt for a classic Moses Basket, lined with padded white 100% cotton and hand embroidered French knots, and wooden stand, your sweet bébé will be sure to sleep soundly in their serene surroundings.

#BLINGITON

#GLOBALLYCONSCIOUS

#BONJOURBABY

#GREATEXPECTATIONS

#DECORDIVA Draw Me A Sheep, Toronto’s new baby boutique, is a great place to start if your nursery walls are still bare. Not only do they have a unique collection of bedding, nursery décor and furniture, they also provide full nursery design support. We can’t get enough of the Velvet Moustache plush throw pillows inspired by the animal kingdom and lovingly made in Montreal. Instore, by phone or online the chicest nursery of your dreams begins here. Visit www. drawmeasheep. ca or call them at 416.519.7887 to get your registry started.

If factory-made clothing from China is banned from your wish list you will fall in love with OM Home’s handmade kantha quilts available from PFR Design Inspired Living collection.

Appealing to fair trade shoppers, these blankets are made by an artisan collective in India utilizing layers of super soft sari fabric. The process behind these quilts shows integrity, skill and most importantly a unique beauty!

Perfect for snuggles in the nursery or a picnic in the park.

NOTE: It is recommended that blankets not be used in cribs until a baby is at least 12 months old.

Many new mothers enjoy wearing their child’s initials around their neck as a way to keep their little one close to their heart at all times.

A custom monogrammed Jennifer Zeurner necklace from Yonge & Summerhill’s super stylish new maternity store ANI + WREN is sure to put a smile on your face – and some sparkle around your neck! This is the perfect pick if you have already announced (aka reserved) your baby’s name or if you opt to host a Sip-and-See shower to meet the newest member of the family.

#greatexpectations at Modern Baby

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It started with a kiss...

Alexis Fraser is a full time Toronto artist as well as a wife to Josh (her business partner) and new mom to a beautiful 5 month old daughter Rue. We fell in love with her Marilyn Monroe piece, entirely made of kisses (yes really! lipstick kisses!) and simply had to share.

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Can you tell us a little bit about your inspiration for the Marilyn Monroe piece? What made you decide on lipstick kisses?

The inspiration for the Marilyn Monroe came to me when I tried to find a way do something artistically non-traditional to help separate me from every other artist. One day I was driving cross country with my husband discussing various ideas and then, BAM! The idea of creating the very classic Marilyn Monroe with nothing more than kiss prints entered my mind. It was the perfect idea! It combined pop art and pointillism (both subject matter and techniques I was dabbling in at the time) and it was also totally unique and allowed the subject to correlate with both the medium and technique used. Marilyn Monroe was my first piece, and since then I have done close to 20 other pop icons using the same medium and technique.

Since my husband works in film as a videographer, he wanted to document the process so the viewers could gain an understanding and an appreciation for how the piece was created.

What are you looking forward most do to with your daughter this spring?

I am most looking forward to stepping outside with her without all the bundling. It’ll be so nice to finally get her outside in her cute spring/summertime outfits and take her to the gardens to see flowers for the first time and to the park to push her in a swing for the first time! So many new experiences for the two of us being our first spring together!

Best way to unwind?

Long walk with the family...or wine usually does the trick!

Any beauty secrets?

I’m flattered to be asked! I don’t do anything out of the ordinary. I just try and keep it real with my makeup and hair. Simple and natural. I also eat a primarily vegetarian diet and try to walk wherever I can as often as possible. I used to do yoga on a regular basis and plan on starting back up ASAP- good for the mind, body and soul!

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MNAZAR@ME.COM 416-878-1435

AVANT BEBE

All Dressed Up!

Grego is all dressed up in an Isabella Oliver dress with a tweed leather jacket by Rebecca Taylor and silver Annabel Ingall bag from Ani+Wren. Tristan is rocking a fridge jacket by Bobo Choses from Advice from a Caterpillar, mint jeans from Zara and red loafers from Jacadi

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Planning the Nursery

Grego is wearing Paige boyfriend Perro deliquis ent. Omnihitat acculpa que jeans with a Three Dots tank and cusciis sitios et ut res mod quotop te corerea Mainru scarfutfrom Maternity. cea dolo vollut lam,Belly nonse nis am, et Featuring a Baby Jives cloud mobile quas et officit utae volest resequi omnihil and knitted heart blanket by Yarning invendicia eosam ventia estia quam nat Made, both available at Draw Me a que porio occum eatiiss inveles sitesti des Sheep ut pera excestis sus.

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Because I’m Happy

Tristan is casual in a Nico Nico t-shirt and Bobo Choses polka dots jeans from Advice from a Caterpillar.

Rowan’s jeans and scarf are from Zara with a plain white tee from Jacadi www.binkymagazine.com

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Looking Pretty Rowan looks delightful in a lipstick Bobo Choses dress from Advice from a Caterpillar and yellow ballet flats from Jacadi. www.binkymagazine.com

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Mommy Love Grego looks picture perfect in a Nicole Miller dress from Ani+Wren with a bracelet from Gee Beauty.

Tristan is ready for some fun in the sun in a yellow tie dye t-shirt by Finger in the Nose from Advice from a Caterpillar with pants from Jacadi.

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Playdate Perfection Tristan is wearing a Stella McCartney bomber jacket from Advice from a Caterpillar with ripped jeans and loafers from Zara.

Rowan is ready to stomp some puddles in Liberty rain boots and head scarf from Advice from a Caterpillar, striped shorts from Jacadi and jean jacket from Zara. www.binkymagazine.com

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Beautiful Belly Grego is ready for spring in this wonderful Queen Mum chambray dress from Belly Maternity with a necklace from Gee Beauty.

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FIN. www.binkymagazine.com

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w w w. t r u s t k i d s . n e t

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have your cake and eat it, too!

An entertaining theme, full-service party planning services, and a private party area in a world-class venue – what more could you wish for? Kidville makes planning a birthday party easy!

When you host your birthday party at Kidville, you know exactly what you’re going to receive: unparalleled personal attention from our dedicated birthday party staff and one very happy birthday child! From set-up to cleanup and everything in between, we work hard so you don’t have to!

3

1 pick your package

the goodies

Every Kidville party is as unique as the birthday child. Start by choosing one of our all-inclusive party packages.

You’ll get 90-minutes in one of our private party zones for all of your party guests.

All of these party activities naturally lead to some hungry kids! At Kidville, parties include a kid-friendly menu, delicious cupcakes and even premium party favours so guests leave with something special to remind them of the day.

2

4

so many ways to party

the wow-factor!

Whether your little one wants to be a superhero or a princess, Kidville’s party planners will help you pick the perfect party theme. From the moment guests arrive, your Kidville Party Leader will engage them with our themed Kidville Art table followed by playtime in the Kidville gym.

If you can dream it, our birthday specialists can make it happen!

Whether you want to add more time, more kids, special performances, photographers or adult fun food – just ask and your Kidville Party Planner will do whatever it takes to make your wish come true!

Call Kidville and have one of our expert party planners make this year’s birthday the best one yet!

Book your party by visiting kidville.ca/birthdays – or calling Kaela McDowell at 416.483.7070 x206

classes • birthday parties • indoor playspace • boutique KIDVILLE – YONGE LAWRENCE VILLAGE

3420 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4N 2M9

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FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

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www.kidville.ca

Have children, will travel.

The world is becoming a small place and more and more we are covering the four corners of the earth.

Having kids doesn’t seem to be slowing us down one bit.

After booking a winter holiday to St. Maarten, we had to cancel the trip due to an outbreak of a virus on the island. Our paediatrician was emphatic -do not go-.

After a moment of panic (this winter of all winters we HAD to get away!) we made a game day decision to go to Hawaii instead and booked our flights, hotel, rental car without further thought. It then dawned on us - this is a really long flight and our kids are still little (3 and 5).

But it all worked out - we had a fantastic time and the flights were pretty much a non-event. How did we make the almost 12 hours of flying time there (all of which was awake), and the 10 hour overnight return flight work?

Technology is your friend. Stating the obvious - you need

to go no further than investing in a comfortable pair of kiddy headphones. Most long haul airlines have plenty of kid shows and movies on their in-flight system and the novelty of watching them on the seat back is fascinating for kids. But do not rely on the airline headphones because they are uncomfortable and fall out of their ears. Having said that - don’t rely on airline movies alone as there may be a technology glitch on the plane or they may not be offered on smaller planes. Load your iPad up with some movies and TV shows or bring a portable DVD player. Get a splitter for your ipad so your kids can watch movies together.

Go to the dollar store / staples. Get brand new cray-

ons, colouring books, glitter pens etc. and tell your kids you have bought brand new toys for the plane - but do not show them before hand. Anticipation is key. For smaller kids - take the time to wrap up games / activities in wrapping paper. Get the kids excited about their “presents”.

Dry erase boards. Buy each child their own dry erase board - they can use this for drawing, for word games or even just for writing each other silly notes.

It is a surprisingly popular airplane activity.

Introduce activities one at a time. If you have 3 colour-

ing books / activity books - do not bring them out all at once because your kids will lose interest.

Healthy food. Sounds obvious but having kids strapped

in to a confined space does not mix well with sugar.

Pack your own healthy meals and snacks and bring your own disposable tupperware containers that can double as bowls and avoid having messy spills. www.binkymagazine.com

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Once you are through airport security, grab some water to bring on the plane to combat any jet lag.

Pack your child’s blanket and stuffie in their carry on. The

overnight flight home from Hawaii was a breeze.

We packed the kids’ favorite blankets and they each slept for over 6 hours on the plane curled up in their chair - head on my lap. My sleep was another story.

Pack extra wipes, and a change of clothes. It can get messy playing and eating in one spot for hours on end.

If you pack some extra large freezer bags that will hold you in good stead to carry clean and then dirty clothes as well as miscellaneous items.

Manage your expectations. Once you’re at your des-

tination, don’t expect that your small child will really care about things that are on the must-see list of your destination. They will likely be just as happy to go to the same pool or stretch of beach day in day out and could care less about seeing whales or snorkelling with the dolphins. Travelling with young children is about making memories for the whole family rather than checking things off your to-do list.

Let your kids take part in the planning. If you have the

time, involve your children in planning the itinerary. For example, if you have a 7 day beach trip but want to make 2 day trips, have each child be in charge of planning one of the days. Give them a choice of options which would all work for the 60 BINKY

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family and allow them to make the choice and be “in charge” of the day.

Remember - while travelling - be kind to yourself.

There will be periods of frustration or stress. Try to let these moments go as quickly as possible and keep your eye on the prize of spending some time with your family away from the endless to -do lists of life in the city. It is worth it - and all the work it took to get “out the door” will fade away and in its place will be memories that last a lifetime.

by: Lara Teoli

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Myla

How old are you?

I am five and a half

What grade are you in?

Sk

What’s your favourite part of spring?

I get to wear my rain boots!

What’s your favourite book?

The Black Stallion

What’s your favourite movie?

The Neverending Story

What’s the best part of being a kid?

Being able to do this *crosses eyes*

What’s the hardest part about being a kid?

Not being able to whistle

If you were an animal which one would you be?

Why a dog?

A dog, a calm dog

So I could look very cute

What do you love doing the most with your family?

Science Centre What’s your favourite colour?

Going to the museum or the

Pink and bleu

How old do you think you have to be to be a ‘big girl’?

10 years old www.binkymagazine.com

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Subscribe to your free copy of Binky Magazine today! You will receive an email notification when each issue is available.

It’s that simple!

www.binkymagazine.com hello@binkymagazine.com

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Je t’aime Colleen McGill of Plum Furniture & Design Solutions tells us about a few things that make her smile...

My 3 sweet girls – hearing their little voices in the mornings telling each other they are best friends, my eldest helping her sister get dressed, my baby making sure her voice is heard above her older sisters, listening to them sing to Katy Perry’s Roar My morning coffee – especially if it’s made for me by my husband.

He puts just the right amount of sugar and tells me I am the most beautiful girl in the world

The perfect moment – hard to come by as a busy working mom but when the sunlight is just perfect, I sit at my favourite Coco Desk in front of my window and take a moment to explore inspiring pictures on Pinterest and add to our Plum Furniture Pinterest Boards.

My funny, amazing friends. I have so little time these days but every moment with these clever, amazing, funny women make me smile.

Thinking of the first moment each of my girls was born and I saw their beautiful faces for the first time. Whenever I can’t fall asleep, I close my eyes and think of those moments. It always brings me joy and a calm perspective on what might be worrying me.

Walking along a wide sandy beach. My father and I would have long wonderful talks about life every summer walking along the beautiful beach in Biddeford Maine. Since he passed away, I think of him and his wonderful wisdom, support and kindness every time I walk along a beach.

New York, London, Paris – their architecture, beauty, energy, food and shopping. I could lose myself for days wandering their beautiful streets and visiting their galleries. The Frick Museum in New York is gorgeous and always reminds me of a dear friend of mine.

Being able to create – my life, a space, a piece of furniture into my vision. It’s all the more rewarding when my designs resound with others.

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Inspired Lifestyle Boutique At PFR Design you can find European Inspired exclusive collections and luxury lines from around the world.

Our distinguished collections go beyond home accessories and range from inspired children’s & nursery decor, to educational toys, women’s accessories & unique gift giving ideas.

www.pfrdesign.com

Daniela & Paulina

invite you to discover our world and

B ecome Inspired . . . info@pfrdesign.com

GIFTS!!

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TABLETOP!

JEWELRY

e

Ă€ la prochaine...

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is a sister company with