My husband and I moved to Canada 15 years ago, long before kids were on the horizon. This was at a time when we were only responsible for each other, and our biggest decision was where to dine and which movie to check out that weekend. Like other new Canadians, we’ve learnt lots about Canada since our move. Moving houses and cities, and travelling from Toronto to Tofino and back again helped a great deal.
I remember the first time I tried on fur-lined boots in Calgary. I realized why my stylish leather boots that were bought in Italy didn’t work for winter in Canada. It’s the lining – duh! And the tread! Winter footwear must have a decent tread, or you may as well wear bathroom slippers outside.
The other critical thing I learnt in those early years was the value of blow drying my hair before leaving the house. Growing up in India, I was accustomed to letting the warm tropical air run through my hair. But when that breeze is coming directly from the Tundra, hair will freeze into little icicles as soon as you step outside.
Yes, there were a few hard lessons about winter in Canada. Thankfully, I also learnt that after a long winter, spring arrives with colour and warmth, and summer is just around the corner.
Celebrating Summer in Canada #Canada150
Living on the other side of the world from most of our family, the hubby and I have learnt the value of traditions, old and new, and their importance in helping us establish roots in Canada. Over the years celebrating outdoors has become a favourite tradition. Hanging out with friends, letting kids run free in the grass, and dining al fresco has become a large part of enjoying the season. We bought our first grill a few years ago and haven’t looked back. Eating outdoors has become the norm, even on a weeknight! Making lovely memories outdoors is that much easier and fun!
This year is especially close to our hearts as we celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary.
Disclaimer: I have received compensation and product to write this post. The opinion and narrative as always is honest and all mine.
Celebrate Canada along with Sobeys #Sobeys110
Recently Sobeys reached out to me, asking for help to celebrate this momentous year, and I jumped at the chance. I was delighted to collaborate with a retailer that is not only proudly Canadian but that has also been serving Canadian shoppers since 1907. That’s 110 years! In collaborating with them I’ve learnt that the chain has stores all over Canada and representation in all 10 provinces. Their purpose of helping Canadians “Eat Better, Feel Better and Do better” synchronizes beautifully with national celebrations this year. #Sobeys110 along with #Canada150.
To help my family kick off the season, Sobeys sent over a hamper of delicious goodies to try out. I embraced the opportunity and invited some of my dear friends to celebrate. The food was all from Sobeys new Celebrate Canada range. It includes products that are perfect to help Canadians ring in the celebrations for #Canada150 #Sobeys110 and to #CelebrateSummer. Are you ready?
One of my favourite in the Celebrate Canada range are the 100% Canadian Angus beef maple leaf-shaped burgers. These were delicious enough for the pickiest eater in our family, and held their own on the grill and impressed us all with their unique shape. 
I topped my burger with the Sobeys Spirited Mickie Gold Rush that is made with mustard, Canadian pale ale and a hint of tamarind. I can see this delicious BBQ sauce on grilled meats and also as a yummy dip for appetizers. My other favourite from the Celebrate Canada range is the Cold Brew Coffee. Its mellow flavour along with ice is a perfect pick-me-up on a sunny afternoon, and since it comes ready-to-drink there’s no waiting or brewing. Its summertime and I want to get outside!
The party was a celebration and so the kids insisted on having their Celebrate Canada Birthday Cookies along with their main course. And who could blame them? A twist on the original maple flavour, these red-coloured maple leaf cookies are filled with velvety cream cheese-flavoured icing. Yummy and oh so pretty! 
We finished the evening with Celebrate Canada Maple-Flavoured Ice Cream Bars that are made with real dairy cream. I supplemented these with homemade ice pops made with Compliments Lemonade. Simple, refreshing, and a perfect way to end the evening.
Go ahead and celebrate summer with Sobeys and see the delicious goodies available at the Celebrate Canada Look book.
