Sorry for the very late post. I want to first say congratulations to Karen and Wayne on their wedding on March 26, 2016. It was a lovely ceremony and reception at Riverside Banquet Halls in Richmond, BC.

Here is just a preview. Only friends and family will have access to full gallery.

Congrats again to the newlyweds!

A giveaway just time for Summer! This season means falls of bikes, boogie boards, in-line skates, skateboards, and burns from the barbecue grill. Regardless of age, injuries happen. Scarology offers a hospital grade, 3-step scar healing kit and they are giving away one full kit to a lucky reader.


Scars are areas of fibrous tissue (fibrosis) that replace normal skin after injury. A scar results from the biological process of wound repair in the skin and other tissues of the body. Scarring is a natural part of the healing process. With the exception of very minor lesions, every wound results in some degree of scarring. Skin is a seamless organ, like a fine cloth protecting valuable assets. Imagine a piece of silk. Just one small tear can make a big difference in how it looks. And it's the same with skin. Any burn, injury, or other trauma, such as surgery, can cause a scar.

Dr. Michael Connor and Dr. Jeanmarie Connor are a husband and wife team with twenty years of medical expertise specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery and pediatrics. Together they have created Scarology. This new product is a safe and effective three-step at home scar treatment. Exfoliation procedures such as dermabrasion or laser resurfacing have been shown to be effective in improving the appearance of a scar but can cost thousands of dollars and can be associated with significant down time.

Scarology can be used on both adults and children to help fade a plethora of scars:
· acne scars
· facial scars
· burn scars
· keloids
· wound scars
· stretch marks
· C section scars

The proprietary scar treatment system combines ingredients that have, until now, only been available in medical settings. These key ingredients have been shown to nourish the healing scar with hydration, and reduce inflammation in the scar tissue.

Scarology’s unique 3-part system can be used on any skin type and on any scar once the skin has completely healed from the initial injury. The regimen is designed to target different phases of scarring. The kit includes a gentle exfoliator, simple scar cream and self-adhesive silicone sheets to be worn at night during sleep. Changes in scar appearance have been reported as early as 3 days following initial application.

Products & Use:

Step One: Natural Fruit Acid Exfoliator: In the morning, spread a thin layer of Natural Fruit Acid Exfoliator over the healed scar and onto dry, residue-free skin. Massage into scar for 1-3 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Slow, controlled exfoliation allows removal of the unhealthy skin cells overlying the scar and stimulates the healthy surrounding tissue to replicate and replace the top layer of skin.

Step Two: Ultimate Scar Cream: Apply the Ultimate Scar Cream twice daily. Following Step 1, massage cream onto scar and leave on skin throughout the day. In the evening, apply Ultimate Scar Cream again. Scarology’s™ innovative scar cream formula contains ingredients that have been shown to reduce inflammation and hydrate all layers of the wound.

Step Three: Silicone Scar Sheet: At night, apply the self-adhesive Silicone Scar Sheet to skin. Remove sheet in the morning and store sheet with protective liner for repeated uses. The third component of the system is designed to help provide compression and nourishment to the scar throughout the night. Scarology’s self adhesive silicone sheet uses advanced patented silicone technology currently used in hospitals.

For best results, it is recommended that Scarology’s 3-step Ultimate Scar System is used for a minimum of 3 months with continued use for as long as the scar shows signs of improvement. Older scars may require 6-12 months of continuous therapy.

Does Scarology™ Work on Old Scars?

Scars from several years ago are the most difficult to treat and most likely will not change in appearance with topical silicone or onion extract alone. However, Scarology’s™ 3 part system is different. Scarology is the only commercially available product for scars that may enhance the appearance of old scars.

Can Scarology™ be Used on Pigmented Skin?

Scarology can be used on all skin types. Children with scars can benefit as well. Scarology does not recommend using the fruit exfoliator, Step 1, in children under 2 years of age.

The three phases of wound healing

Phase 1: Initiation

This first phase begins immediately after the injury and is completed within a few hours. During this phase, there is the formation of a blood clot. In addition, proteins in the body, called fibrin, create a matrix for reparative cells to enter the site and start the healing process.

Phase 2: Inflammatory

This phase begins soon after and new cells start to grow in order to cover the wound surface. Granulation tissue (early scar tissue) begins to form and new blood vessels start to sprout in order to nourish the reparative cells. A collagen matrix replaces the fibrin matrix and inflammatory cells enter along the wound’s new scaffold. Altering the inflammatory cells during this phase can dramatically improve the appearance of a scar.

Phase 3: Remodeling

This is the last phase of wound healing. A strong type of collagen slowly replaces the blood vessels and reparative cells. Specific cells, called myofibroblasts, remain in this collagen matrix and contract, which ultimately leads to a decrease in the size of the scar. Reparative cells continue to enter and survey the scar for months and even years after the injury, which is why scars tend to look better at 1 year than at 1 month. The wound environment changes dramatically during the course of healing and the formation and appearance of a scar is directly related to the events described above.

Pricing:
Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for Average Size Scars: $89.00
Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment System for C-Sections & Large Scars: $119.00
Scarology™ Ultimate Scar Treatment Cream: $60.00
Scarology™ Natural Fruit Acid Skin Exfoliator: $45.00


For more information on Scarology visit Scarology.com

{ GIVEAWAY DETAILS }

PRIZE:

The kit includes: The Ultimate Scar System kit includes a 3-month supply of Natural Fruit Acid Exfoliator, Ultimate Scar Cream 6 Reusable SiliconeScar Sheets. The system retails for $89.99.

Contest is open to US only, except Puerto Rico and Hawaii, 18+ (ends July 1st, 2016 at 12am PST). All entries unless otherwise noted are optional.  Please enter the giveaway form below. The winner will be emailed and have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. Good luck!
  
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Disclosure:  I was not compensated for this post. nor am I responsible for prize fulfillment. Sponsor is responsible for prize shipment. This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site.

African Safari by bike.
Exodus Travels invites travellers of all ages to celebrate National Bike Month with an exotic cycling adventure abroad. For more than 42 years Exodus has been crafting and developing the widest range of cycling tours in the world. From relaxing bike rides in France's Loire Valley to cresting the highest roads over the Himalayas, nothing compares to the freedom of two-wheels.

In honour of the month-long cycling celebration, Exodus Travels rounded up 10 new and top-selling cycling adventures for 2016.

1. Cycle Nicaragua, Costa Rica & Panama

Exodus’ challenging ride through the tropics spans three of the most popular countries in Central America. The 571-kilometre route takes cyclists into Costa Rica's steamy cloud forests, alongside active volcanoes in Nicaragua and to the tropical Panamanian paradise of Bocas del Toro. Scenic climbs through monkey forests that drop onto postcard perfect Pacific beaches are worth the extra effort. Off the bike, energetic explorers raft the Tenorio River, peruse local handicraft markets in tiny pueblos and relax tired muscles in La Fortuna’s thermal hot springs. 15-day departures begin August 6, 2016. Rates from $4,305 CAD.

2. Cycling Cuba

Travellers have a chance to soak in Cuba’s uniquely rich history and culture as they cycle the entire length of this iconic Caribbean country. The journey begins in hip Havana and leads to rural sugar cane and citrus plantations, following the coastline to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trinidad. Travellers will leave the cobblestoned streets behind and head deep into Sierra Maestra mountain range. A refreshing mojito is never far from sight. 14-day departures begin June 9, 2016. Rates from $3,215 CAD.


3. Cycle Southern Iceland

Iceland is quickly becoming the most popular destination for 2016. Cyclists will depart from the active geothermal area of Krisuvik and ride on the south west coast of the rugged Reykjanes peninsula to Selfoss’ volcanic black sand beaches. Along the journey, travellers will marvel at the infamous Eyjafjallajokull volcano and sky-high Skogafoss waterfall. After watching plumes of hot water jump 30 metres in the air at Geysir, the trip winds its way through Thingvellir National Park where travellers can relax with a well-deserved soak at the thermal pools in Laugardalur. Eight-day departures begin August 6, 2016. Rates from $3,985 CAD.

4. Cycling Vietnam

Senses will heighten from the moment travellers arrive in bustling Ho Chi Minh City. After an exploration of the narrow Cu Chi Tunnels, riders will hop on their bikes and head towards the sleepy beach town of Mui Ne, passing small fishing villages and arriving in time to watch the sky melt into a vibrant sunset over the South China Sea. Continuing along the coast, cyclists meander down the ancient streets of Hoi An before climbing the spectacular Hai Van Pass. The adventure continues off the bike with temple treks and kayaking the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. 14-day departures begin July 24, 2016. Rates from $2,305 CAD.

5. Tanzania Cycle Safari

This two wheel adventure travels into Northern Tanzania and features some of East Africa’s best safari parks. Cyclists ride across banana and coffee plantations to the Great Rift Valley and the grasslands where Masai cattle graze. After sleeping under the stars, travellers journey into the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti to spot giraffes, zebras, elephants, lions, wildebeests, rhinos, and if they’re lucky, a cheetah or leopard. 13-day departures begin August 21, 2016. Rates from $4,615 CAD.

6. Cycle the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago de Compostela across northern Spain is one of the world's oldest pilgrimage routes. Also known as 'The Way of St James,’ it originated in the region of Galicia where the tomb of the Apostle James the Great was discovered in the 9th Century. The journey is marked by the symbol of the scallop shell and its Gothic cathedrals, medieval monasteries and miles of beautiful rural scenery that make this section of the ancient route so popular with Exodus’ travellers. Eight-day departures begin August 7, 2016. Rates from $2,265 CAD.

7. Cycle Morocco’s Great South

In Marrakech, travellers are transported to a land of walled medinas and souks selling everything from street food to jewellery before journeying into the foothills of Mt. Toubkal. Their first challenging climb up the Tizi N’Test Pass rewards with expansive views towards the Anti Atlas Mountains, and the descent through lush citrus groves never disappoints. Deep in the desert, riders keep their eyes open for tree climbing goats, tour Paradise Valley’s narrow gorge and finish off in the charming fishing village of Essaouira. Nine-day departures begin September 10, 2016. Rates from $2,095 CAD.

8. Loire Valley Gastronomic Self-Guided Cycling – Premium

A self-guided bike tour through the whimsical French countryside invites travellers to take lazy lunches by the river or wander local vineyards before retiring to their 4- and 5-star chateau accommodations. The culinary adventure includes divine dinners and wine pairings prepared by ambitious French sommeliers and artistic chefs. Riders will bliss out with daily rides to sleepy hamlets, flamboyant palaces and sunflowers fields. Seven-day departures begin June 2, 2016. Rates from $2,155 CAD.

9. Cycle Madagascar

Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, offers a cycling adventure like no other. The new adventure follows quiet roads through a landscape of dramatic highland plains, unique rock formations and natural swimming pools formed by geysirs. Cyclists can refresh with a swim under cascading waterfalls or a local pint from Antisarabe’s Star Brewery. Riders will push past eucalyptus tress, up jagged mountains and through tangled rainforests, making their way into Ranomafana National Park. The trip includes time to relax on the white sand beaches of Ifaty, dive above exotic coral reef, and shop the bustling artisan markets of Antananarivo. 14-day departures begin June 12, 2016. Rates from $3,675 CAD.

10. Tuscany Cycle Siena & Chianti

Exodus takes cyclists into the heart of one of Europe’s most romantic landscapes where they explore Tuscany’s rolling hills, ancient olive groves, vineyards and Renaissance cities. Beginning on the famous pilgrimage route of Francigena, riders break for a glass of famous vino nobile found in the wine centre of Montepulciano. Pushing almost 60-kilometres of track each day, cyclists head north through the villages of ‘Le Crete’ before entering the gothic city of Siena and the towers of San Gimignano. A final day of riding takes the small group along panoramic roads leading to the famous Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence. Eight-day departures begin June 18, 2016. Rates from $1,885 CAD.


For more information about Exodus Travels, visit exodustravels.com

The past weekend, I was craving for ramen noodles for lunch and decided to try a new place that I've never been to before. I searched up online to see what's available near my home and found this Japanese Noodle Restaurant called Hakkaku Ramen (4530 E. Hastings St., Burnaby, BC). The ramen is quite flavourful.

First time here and didn't know what to expect. It's a small place and it gets busy after 12:30pm. They open at 11:30am so better to get there before noon like I did with my hubby and little one to avoid waits. The ramen noodles options are a little different than what I normally order. You get a choice of these type of ramen (or soup base): miso, spicy miso, shoyu, shio, or curry. For the soup base, there is an option of regular or rich long with the option of chashu (pork shoulder) or pork belly.

I was hesitant, but chose the miso Ramen with the rich soup base and chashu. The soup had lots of flavour (maybe a bit too much garlic mixture), but it is a bit too greasy for me. There were little floating fat bits in the soup. I'm sure that the regular would be less oily so I will order that instead on my next future visit. The portion was really big and I got very full after consuming 3/4 of the bowl. I took my time finishing.


Here is my hubby's order with the combo of chashu don (rice bowl) and same miso ramen noodles. He couldn't finish the rice bowl so we had it packed. That was also enough for his next day's lunch.


My rating: 5 stars

West Hollywood, CA: Actress and fitness fanatic, Ashley Greene hosted a Muscle Milk sponsored re-launch event at her favorite workout hotspot Rise Nation in West Hollywood Tuesday, May 24th. The invite only group fitness class was lead by founder and celebrity trainer Jason Walsh, who has trained Ashlee for the past 3 years. Jason navigated guests through a difficult yet effective 30 minute full body workout done exclusively on the Versaclimber athlete conditioning machine. The The workout was followed by a cool down on branded Muscle Milk yoga matts and TriggerPoint foam rollers, also conducted by Jason on Rise Nation's patio space overlooking the Hollywood Hills skyline.


Ashley who visits the boutique fitness studio multiple times a week looked great while sweating in trendy fitness wear brand, ChillbyWill swirl crop leggings with mesh details & matching bra!




Rise Nation:
Rise Nation is a unique group studio fitness experience that offers a true full body 30 minute workout primary focused on the instinctual movement of climbing. The Versaclimber is the exclusive tool used because it has the lowest risk of injury and promotes proper standing posture and overall healthy movement of the bones and joints. Not only is it safe it's also powerful. The Versaclimber recruits all major muscle groups at once and is virtually impossible to coast on. For 30 minuets you are putting in maximum effort, clients can expect to burn upwards of 600-800 calories and leave feeling exhilarated, balanced and strong. The studio utilizes premium sound, an overhead light installation as well as world class trainers to offer a distraction from the difficult workout as well as give guests an experience like no other. Celebrity fans of the studio include; Jennifer Aniston, Bradley Cooper, Jessica Biel, Emma Stone, Minka Kelly, Ashlee Greene, Lily Aldridge, Irina Shayk, Hilary Duff and many others.

Developed by celebrity trainer Jason Walsh who holds a B.A in Exercise & Sports Science with an emphasis in nutrition, physiology and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also holds top-level certifications as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and as a Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT). With an extensive background in athletic conditioning Jason is now Hollywood's go-to trainer to bulk up action stars for blockbuster roles. At his private studio, Rise Movement Jason has transformation the bodies of Matt Damon for the new Bourne movies, Bradley Cooper for American Sniper, Jon Krasninski for 13 Hours, Emily Blunt and most recently Emma Stone for Battle of the Sexes. An advocate for smart and effective fitness Jason created Rise Nation to offer his unique and highly sought after cardio concept to the masses.


Chill By Will:
Inspired by the WILL, love, athlete, light, strength, and faith that’s in all of us; CHILLBYWILL has created high quality athletic apparel that’s inspired by the everyday woman and meant for wear on the street, at the gym, and everywhere in between. Proudly made in the USA, we’ve taken a basic look and added a style that’s only CHILLBYWILL. Our athletic mesh, body shaping cuts and fabrics that are sleek, smooth and comfortable strive to flatter all body shapes and sizes.

CHILLBYWILL was a natural next step for founders Christina Malizia, a top fitness trainer from Philadelphia and Corrina Wall a Los Angeles native, dancer and entrepreneur. Corrina is an established clothing designer, whom has been immersed in fitness and fashion her entire life. Christina has been working with Los Angeles’ premier fitness training studio Burn 60 since 2008, and is passionate about helping others get fit and healthy. Over the years, Christina has been asked regularly by top athletic wear companies, including Lululemon and Splits 59 for personal feedback on their apparel. She knew she had to start her own line.

We believe that with a little inspiration and a whole lot of comfort, every woman can do anything and everything they set their minds to.
CHILLBYWILL... helping you find the WILL to be the best you.

Blogger Giveaway Event Sign Up:

Kindle Paperwhite eReader Giveaway Event

Attention bloggers:  This is a free/paid blogger event hosted by Lil' Blog and More. Link is free when you promote the giveaway on your blog or social media and a thank-you for participating in the event. Sign-ups close June 6, 2016.

PARTICIPATION DETAILS

* Prizes: Kindle Paperwhite eReader

* Event dates: June 10, 2016 - July 2, 2016

* Eligibility: Contest is open to US residents

* 2 FREE LINKS - Facebook visit, Twitter follow, Instagram, Pinterest. Announcement post here.


* CO-HOSTS SPOTS ARE $10 - get up to 7 links! You get your free option #1 or #2, PLUS 5 additional links of your choosing (excluding Google+)!

* EXCLUSIVE HOST $20 - get up to 7 links. You get your free option #1 or #2, PLUS 5 additional links of your choosing (excluding Google+)!

* Agree to post the giveaway HTML on the date the event begins and promote at least 3x a week

* Please feel free to mention Jennie from "Jen's Blog of Random Thoughts" referred you! Thanks!

~ SIGN UP HERE ~

It was Sunday evening when I decided to hang out in the back yard to see the garden. Then I heard a bird chirping sound right beside me and that's when I saw this cute little humming bird. I snapped the photo with my iPhone, but wasn't clear. It already flew away. I went into the house to grab my Nikon in case it comes back. And yes, it did. Below photograph is one of the best ones from the shots. See more other animal and nature photos in my Facebook Gallery.



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500px Gallery
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National Geographic

Lisap introduces its latest innovation in haircare formulations, the Summer Care Collection. It is formulated for everyone who desires healthy, glossy hair that withstands the effects of the sun, and also wants to have perfectly hydrated skin. The Lisap Summer Care collection is free of parabens and includes Hair & Body After Sun Shampoo, Sun Protective Oil Spray, After Sun Mask. Also included in this year’s collection is a novelty product, After Sun Body Milk.

Fresh and rich ingredients in Lisap’s Summer Care line such as Aloe and Pomegranate extracts and Babassu oil are formulated to revitalize and create a feeling of well-being. The vitamins and minerals found in Aloe and Pomegranate have an antioxidant effect and combat cell damage caused by free radicals and UV rays. These extracts moisturize the skin, leave hair shiny and protect the scalp. Babassu oil offers excellent moisturizing properties, leaving dry hair soft and light.


Lisap Summer Care consists of:

HAIR & BODY AFTER SUN SHAMPOO - ideal for use in the shower, by the sea or pool, this after sun shampoo creates beautifully cleansed, moisturized and energized hair and skin.


LISAP SUMMER CARE SUN PROTECTIVE OIL SPRAY – is a shine-effect spray perfect for sun bathing. Enriched with a UV filter, it envelopes the hair fibre with a screen that gives protection from the sun’s rays, before, during and after exposure.


LISAP SUMMER CARE AFTER SUN MASK - is for use after Lisap’s Hair & Body After Sun Shampoo and combats dehydration caused by sun, saltwater and chlorine. Its deep-down action provides the hair with the conditioning, moisturising and nourishment it needs after you’ve been in the sea or pool.


LISAP SUMMER CARE AFTER SUN BODY MILK - is a moisturizing milk that restores optimum moisture levels to skin after sun exposure. The comforting feel of this refreshing milk moisturizes for 24-hours helping your golden tan last longer.


MY THOUGHTS: I received 3 out of 4 of the Summer Care Collection to try. I didn't get a chance to try the Oil Spray, but I am always satisfied with Lisap products because of the excellent quality. The scent is a bit strong for me, but it doesn't bother me.

When I go to the pool, my hair dries out from the chlorine water. I know I could feel the dryness when I'm trying to wash it off because it gets tangles. Lisap's After Sun Mask saved me from the awful dryness. It provides hair with the conditioning, moisturizing, and the nourishment it needs (and it comes in a cute container). I don't usually use hair mask, but this is something I could get used to.

WHERE TO BUY: Lisap Summer Care Collection is available at fine salons in North and West Vancouver area, Saskatoon, Toronto, Ottawa, Gatineau, Nepean, Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Trois Rivières, Granby, Grand-Mère and New Brunswick.








For a salon near you that carries or uses Lisap products, call 1-800-667-5954 or visit www.lisap.ca or www.facebook.com/LisapCanada                         





Disclosure: I received the above mentioned products at no charge in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of other consumers. No other compensation was given.

Photo was taken last year in Jasper National Park in Alberta. Can anyone identify this Canadian Rockies mountain? Photograph was taken facing slightly north-east from Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93). The river below is Athabasca River located east of the highway. Let me know what you think. See more of my other photographs I took while in Jasper National Park.

Tunnel Mountain is located in the Bow River Valley of Banff National Park within the Canadian Rockies near Banff, Alberta. There is an easy hike in that area. The photograph below is just a view from a distance. See more landscape photos in my Facebook Gallery.



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National Geographic

Goodbye hippie-chic colors, hello luxe sexy shades! Khloe Kardashian’s top choice, “Put a Ring on It,” is just one of many colors to flash on those hands and toes this summer with sassy pastels and bright hues. “Put a Ring on It,” was also recently featured in StyleList Canada as a must-have makeup product of the year.

Trust Fund Beauty is turning vegan and cruelty-free products into high-fashion trends with a feisty twist. This beauty line turns up the heat on color without dangerous toxins or chemicals to create constant show-stopping nail polishes and lipsticks. With Trust Fund Beauty’s quality nail polishes and lipsticks, you will never have to worry about dipping your pretty nails into gross toxins or applying poison to those precious lips.


The wide-ranging shades of polish and Lipgasm Lipsticks allows for women to change up their look several times a day or week, according to their mood and style needs. Trust Fund Beauty’s new line of polish stands out in the crowd with sensuous colors and witty, unapologetic names like “Adult Content,” “Dirty Thoughts,” and “Going Commando.”


While water-based polishes take too long to dry, the new luxury, tongue-in-cheek Trust Fund Beauty line boasts 10-free status, so consumers with health issues and skin sensitivities can keep stylish. The brand is also completely safe for children and pets, too!

Founder Samara Granofsky began this luxury line of bold, beautiful colors to support her mother with cancer. She set out to search for nail colors free of toxins that weren’t “granola,” that would prove to be safe for her mother’s use. Samara created a colorful, chemical-free collection of makeup with memorable names that people are flocking to.

Tunnel Mountain is located in the Bow River Valley of Banff National Park within the Canadian Rockies near Banff, Alberta. There is an easy hike in that area. The photograph below is just a view from a distance. See more landscape photos in my Facebook Gallery.



My Flickr Album
500px Gallery
My Facebook Page
National Geographic