The Great Holiday Treasure Hunt: 6 Christmas Gift Ideas To Make the Season Bright

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The holidays are all about finding those small surprises that make people light up. London Drugs is your treasure map to the season’s best discoveries: indulgent beauty sets, the latest tech trends, and personalized touches that make for memorable gifts. This year, skip the holiday scramble and embrace the fun of the search with these Christmas gift ideas to help make the season bright! 

Beauty, Fragrance, and Little Luxuries

christmas gift ideas, holiday gift ideas, holiday gift ideas canada, christmas list ideas canada, holiday gift basket ideas, Beauty, Fragrance, and Little Luxuries

The holidays call for gifts that feel a little indulgent, and London Drugs knows how to deliver. Think elegant packaging, statement jewelry, and small touches of luxury that make the people on your list feel the love long after the holidays are over. 

 

  1. Beauty Gift Sets

Holiday beauty gift sets make the perfect gift: elegant packaging, great value, and a touch of luxury that feels personal without overthinking it. Here are a few gift ideas to get you started: 

  • The Lancôme Hypnôse Gift Box is a luxe three-piece set featuring Hypnôse mascara, matching eyeliner, and makeup remover. It’s a tailored trio that’s perfect for shoppers looking to give a luxury beauty upgrade that makes an impression right out of the box.  
  • The Versace Eros Pour Homme Gift Set is a statement gift that’s ready to hand over as-is, no gift bag needed! The striking box holds the bold Eros fragrance, shower gel, and after-shave balm.  

 

  1. Fragrance & Jewelry Combos

Some pairings are just meant to be, like luxury fragrances and beautiful jewelry. Try these ready-to-wrap gift combos for effortless presents that are easy to love:  

 

LD Holiday Tip: Go For Stylish & Stress-Free Gifting With Gift Cards 

Gift cards are the ultimate last-minute win—easy, stylish, and always the right size. Pair one with festive chocolates and beauty minis or slip one in a cozy mug for a gift that feels thoughtful, not rushed.

 

Tech Must-Haves for the Season 

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This season’s top gifts are perfect for tech-savvy trendsetters and practical giftees alike. From 4K TVs to smart speakers, these Christmas gift ideas make holiday shopping a cinch.  

 

  1. Gifts That Wow 

If you’re looking to give a gift that makes an instant impression, tech is always a winning choice. Consider these treasures for your Christmas gift list:  

  • The Apple Watch Series 11 is ideal for the multitasker on your list. This smartwatch keeps them connected, active, and on schedule with a sleek fit and innovative, easy-to-use features that feel like second nature. 
  • Laptops and notebooks are thoughtful upgrades for your favourite students, remote workers, or creatives. It’s a gift that’s both exciting to unwrap and endlessly useful beyond the holidays. 

 

  1. Stocking Stuffers That Shine 

Small gifts can make a big impression, especially when they combine fun, function, and a little holiday sweetness. These stocking stuffers bring tech and treats together for festive mini bundles that stand out: 

Custom Gifts That Tell A Story  

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The best gifts often have a heaping helping of thought and intention behind them. Use custom prints and creative gift basket ideas to turn everyday items into one-of-a-kind gifts your friends and loved ones will adore.  

 

  1. PhotoLab Creations

For holiday gift ideas with a personal touch, shop custom creations from London Drugs PhotoLab 

  • Photo Mugs: Add a favourite photo, inside joke, or snapshot from a special trip to turn an everyday mug into a personal treasure for the coffee lovers and tea drinkers in your life. 
  • Custom Calendars: A photo calendar is a great way to stay connected throughout the year. Fill it with family moments or pet photos to brighten desks, kitchens, or home offices all year long. 
  • Personalized Ornaments: Whether it’s a beloved pet, a new baby, or a milestone moment, a custom ornament lets loved ones add a little piece of their story to the tree each year. 

 

  1. DIY Gift Baskets

Ditch the tape and scissors and give your gifts in a charming basket topped with a bow for a festive alternative to wrapping paper. Holiday gift baskets are a fun way to present your presents, and they make the basket part of the surprise. Check out these cozy kit essentials [link to cozy kit blog when live] and fun goodies to fill out your basket:  

Looking to Shop Canadian for the Holidays?

London Drugs is your one-stop shop for Christmas gift ideas made in Canada. Add Kicking Horse coffee to your gift baskets, stuff stockings with Smart Sweets, or find custom prints in our PhotoLab—an official licensee of the Strong and Free brand. Each piece is proudly Canadian, so you can feel good about supporting your community during the holidays. 

Discover the Joy of the Hunt with Holiday Gift Ideas from London Drugs 

The best part of holiday shopping is the thrill of the hunt: finding those perfect little somethings that’ll delight your lucky recipients. At London Drugs, every aisle offers a chance to be surprised, whether you’re pairing a luxe perfume set with a sleek pair of earbuds or slipping festive treats and custom ornaments into the Christmas mix.  

Ready to get gifting? Shop in-store and online for Christmas essentials that make holiday gift giving feel extra special.

 

 

The Cozy Kit: 25 Essentials for Holiday Home Relaxation

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When the weather turns crisp and colourful lights make the world sparkle, the holidays remind us to slow down, find comfort, and make space for the moments that matter most. This season, think beyond the hustle, bustle, and to-do lists, and turn your home into the ultimate holiday retreat.  

Our list of Christmas essentials includes a thoughtful mix of comfort, scent, sound, and warmth designed to create the perfect cozy kit for your holiday home decor setup. 


Winter Must-Haves
 

When temps drop, comfort becomes an art form. These winter must-haves turn frosty mornings and quiet nights into moments of pure, stay-in bliss. 

  1. The Comfy Wearable Blankets

Comfy Junior Squishmallow Wearable Blanket - Sealife, Comfy Wearable Blanket

Nothing says cozy like a blanket you can wear. The Comfy Wearable Blanket wraps you in sherpa softness, great for slow mornings, festive movie nights, or unwrapping gifts in your winter sanctuary. 

 

  1. Space Heaters

Ceramic Heater, Tower Heater, De'Longhi Capsule Ceramic Heater

Keep every corner of your home warm and inviting with the De’Longhi Capsule Ceramic Heater for compact spaces, or the Honeywell Tower Heater for all-over comfort during your holiday movie marathon. 

 

  1. Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier

Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier, Humidifier

Cold air can dry out both skin and spirit. The Vicks Warm Mist Humidifier adds soothing moisture and helps maintain a cozy winter atmosphere while you relax at home. 

 

  1. Owala Water Bottle

Owala Tumbler, Owala Bottle

Even in winter, hydration is key. Upgrade your H2O intake with the Owala Water Bottle, a stylish essential to keep beside your reading nook or while lounging in your living room on Christmas morning. 

 

  1. Salton Cordless Glass Kettle

Cordless Glass Kettle, teas

For tea lovers, the Salton Cordless Glass Kettle is both practical and elegant. Pair it with your favourite teas. Pour a steaming mug, and let the warmth add to your holiday home moment. 

Self-Care 

Between chilly mornings and festive nights, your skin and spirit deserve extra care. These soothing staples make self-care feel like a cozy winter ritual. 

 

  1. Shiseido Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream

Shiseido Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream

Cold weather calls for deep hydration. The Shiseido Bio-Performance Advanced Super Revitalizing Cream keeps your skin glowing and smooth for holiday parties. 

 

  1. Jack Black The Clean Team Limited Edition Body & Hair Wash Set

Jack Black The Clean Team Limited Edition Body/Hair Wash Set

Simplify your routine with the Jack Black Clean Team Set. It’s a sleek, spa-worthy upgrade for a cozy self-care ritual. 

 

  1. Lancôme Advanced Genifique Hydrogel Melting Mask

Lancome Advanced Genifique Hydrogel Melting Mask

The Lancôme Advanced Génifique Hydrogel Melting Mask turns a quiet night into a spa-level retreat. Pop one on, sip cocoa, and bask in the glow of your cozy Christmas home. 

 

  1. HoMedics Massager

HoMedics Massager

Unwind after a long day of decorating or running errands with the HoMedics Massager. It’s the perfect companion for reading by the fire or watching a winter movie. 

 

  1. EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Lotion – Vanilla Cashmere

EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Lotion

Finish your self-care routine with the EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Lotion. Its rich texture seals in moisture for hours, a winter must-have to keep dry skin at bay.

 

Festive Drinks and Snacks  

The best part of winter is curling up with something delicious. These festive, indulgent drinks and snacks are tasty treats to level up your holiday routine. 

 

  1. Tim Horton’s Hot Chocolate

Tim Hortons Hot Chocolate

A mug of Tim Hortons Hot Chocolate is pure nostalgia in liquid form. Top it with marshmallows, then grab a blanket and enjoy the simple magic of a winter night in. 

 

  1. Poppi Soda

    Poppi Soda - Cranberry Fizz

Brighten your beverage lineup with Poppi Soda in Cranberry Fizz, Classic Cola, or Doc Pop. Their cheerful colours make them a fun addition to any festive setup. 

 

  1. Punch Club Craft Mocktails

    Punch Club Craft Mocktail

Hosting friends? Serve Punch Club Craft Mocktails in Virgin Mojito, Paloma, or Aperitivo Spritz. They’re festive, alcohol-free, and stylish enough for your holiday table spread. 

 

  1. Popcorn 

Orville Popcorn Avocado

No movie marathon is complete without popcorn. Try Orville Avocado Sea Salt or BoomchickaPop Sea Salt for the perfect salty crunch to pair with your favourite holiday film. 

LD Holiday Tip: Look for limited time flavoured popcorn options for added holiday vibes!

 

  1. Cookies 

YVR COOKIE's Cookie Crisps, Butter Toffee Biscuits

Sweet treats are essential to every cozy Christmas. Stock up on YVR Butter Toffee Biscuits, Lotus Biscoff Cookies, and Tate’s Chocolate Chip Cookies to enjoy with hot chocolate or a hot cup of tea. 

Entertainment and Relaxation  

Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, these entertainment essentials make the ultimate cozy Christmas finds. 

 

  1. Settlers of Catan 

Catan, Board Game

Game night never goes out of style. Gather the family in for a cozy night in and play Settlers of Catan for laughter and connection. 

 

  1. Kanto Obi3 Turntable

Kanto Obi3 Turntable

The vintage sound of vinyl is the perfect accompaniment to winter decor. The Kanto Obi3 Turntable fills your space with soulful, retro sound that sets the mood for holiday fun. 

 

  1. Nintendo Switch 2 + Nintendo Switch 2 Pokemon Legends Z-A

Nintendo Switch 2 - Mario Kart World Bundle, Video Gaming, Nintendo Switch Consoles & Bundles

Shopping for yourself or looking for the perfect Christmas gift? The Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle and Pokémon Legends Z-A bring endless fun year-round. 

 

  1. Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8

Sony BRAVIA Theater Soundbar

Immerse yourself in the best cinema has to offer with the Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 8. It’s the gold star on top of your winter media setup. 

 

  1. Samsung Q7F 65-in QLED 4K UHD Smart TV with Tizen OS

Television, Electronics, 4K TV, Qled TV

Turn your living room into a theater with the Samsung Q7F 65-in QLED 4K TV. Its large size is ideal for a cozy Christmas movie night or watching the classic Yule Log video in 4K. 

Cozy Home Decor  

The holidays are about filling your home with joyful moments that warm the heart. With the right mix of decor, your space can become a true haven of relaxation. 

 

  1. Himalayan Rock Salt Lamp

Aromatherapy Diffusers, Salt Lamps

Add a soft amber glow to your space with a Himalayan Rock Salt Lamp. Its gentle pink light helps melt away stress, but the colour-changing options let you customize the vibe to suit any occasion. 

 

  1. Candles

Candles, Home Decor, Home Décor

From pine to vanilla, candles set the scene for a truly cozy Christmas evening. Scatter a few around the house for holiday home decor with plenty of ambiance. 

 

  1. Collection by London Drugs Aromatherapy Diffuser

Aromatherapy Diffusers. Salt Lamps

Prefer a flame-free option to scent your home for the holidays? The Collection by London Drugs Aromatherapy Diffuser pairs perfectly with GVA Essential Oils for a steady mist of holiday fragrance. 

 

  1. Aura Digital Frame

Digital Picture Frame, Photo Frames

Bring your favourite memories to life with the Aura Digital Photo Frame. Display family photos, travel moments, or last year’s holiday celebrations in one elegant frame that cycles through photos for you so you get to relive the memories without flipping pages. 

 

  1. Wall Art and Accents

Decorative Mirrors, Wall Art & Home Accents, Home Décor

Refresh your surroundings with new wall art and home accents. A cozy corner or gallery wall can transform your living space into a personal winter retreat, or adding a mirror can elevate the look of any room.

Make Your Home a Cozy Winter Haven with London Drugs  

From wearable blankets to warm drinks, London Drugs has everything you need to build a cozy winter kit. Whether you’re sharing hot chocolate with friends, relaxing with a board game, or watching the snow fall from the couch, these essentials help you savour the comforts of home. 

Looking for more cozy inspiration? Explore the Collection by London Drugs for even more ways to bring scent and style into every corner of your space this season. 

Christmas to Remember with London Drugs & Cricut (the “Contest”) Terms & Conditions

Christmas to Remember with London Drugs & Cricut (the “Contest”) Terms & Conditions 

London Drugs and Crict are giving away three (3) Cricut bundles which include machines, accessories and materials – valued over $800. Craft a Christmas to remember with everything you need to get started on your next DIY project or gift. Contest closes December 9, 2024, 4 PM, PST. Winners will be contacted on December 10, 2024. Delivery of the prize might take up to 3 weeks from the date the paperwork is signed.  

  1. Eligibility:
    The Contest is open only to persons who are at the time of Contest entry:
    (1) A legal resident of one of the following Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba; 
    (2) Have attained at least the age of majority in their respective province of residence (nineteen (19) in British Columbia, and eighteen (18) in all other provinces);
    (3) To participate, follow @LondonDrugs and @Cricut on Instagram and tag a loved one in the comments of the London Drugs and Cricut post and share what meaningful Christmas gift you’d make for them using a Cricut
    (4) Have not won a London Drugs contest since December 2, 2023;
    (5) Are not an employee of, or an immediate family member (e.g. spouse, parents, siblings and children) or household member of any employee of London Drugs, their respective advertising and promotional agencies or the independent judging organization. The Contest is subject to all applicable laws and regulations and is void where prohibited. Participation constitutes the entrant’s full and unconditional agreement to these Terms and Conditions which include the official rules of the Contest. Winning a prize is contingent upon fulfilling all requirements set forth herein. 

    2. To enter the Contest:  all you need to do is follow @LondonDrugs and @Cricut on Instagram and tag a loved one in the comments of the London Drugs and Cricut post, and share what meaningful Christmas gift you’d make for them using a Cricut. Participants may post as many comments as they want as long as one name is tagged per comment. The Contest closes December 9, 2024, 4 PM, PST. 

    3. No purchase necessary. 

    4. No maximum entries apply. One entry per tagged comment and the name tagged cannot be the same. London Drugs is not responsible for entries that become lost or misdirected. London Drugs reserves the right to disqualify any person who attempts to tamper with the Contest, to harass or interfere with any other entrant, or otherwise acts in an inappropriate, offensive, illegal or unsportsmanlike way, all as determined by London Drugs in its absolute discretion.  Submissions shall be void if incomplete, not legible, or if they contain errors or do not comply strictly with all requirements in these rules.  No mechanical reproductions or robotic online entries.  All entries become the property of London Drugs Limited and will not be returned. 

    5.The chances of winning will depend on the number of eligible entries received during the period the Contest is open for.  All entries of received by 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) on December 9th, will be entered into a draw administered by the Marketing Department at London Drugs Limited in Richmond, British Columbia.  To win, selected entrants must sign London Drugs’ declaration and release confirming compliance with the contest rules and acceptance of the prize was awarded, releasing London Drugs, its agents, sponsors, and the judges from liability in association with the contest and prize and consenting to the use of their name, photograph, voice, and statements for promotional and publicity purposes. Only one prize may be won per person and per household. If any selected entrant is otherwise unwilling or unable to comply with full of these rules, a new entry will be drawn.  

    6. There are three (3) Prizes to be won, each consisting of a Cricut Explore 3 Electronic Cutting Machine, Cricut EasyPress 3 – 9 x 9in, Cricut Essential Craft Toolset, Transfer Tape, Smart Vinyl (x2), Smart Iron-On Vinyl (x3). The Prize bundle is valued at $845.91. 

    Prize must be accepted as awarded, is non-transferable and no substitutions are permitted, except that London Drugs reserves rights to substitute a prize or prize component for one of equal or greater value. The actual value of each prize may fluctuate based on pricing of each prize component at the time the prize is redeemed. The details on how to redeem the prize will be provided by direct message (DM) via Instagram to the winner.  The Prize will be shipped by the contest sponsor, Cricut, to the Winner. 

    7. Selected entrants will be contacted by phone or email. No correspondence will be entered into except with selected entrants. If the selected entrant is unreachable within five (5) days a new entrant will be chosen in the same manner until a winner is determined8. Decisions of the judges in respect of all aspects of this contest including, but not limited to, eligibility of entries and correctness of answers given to the skill-testing question, are final. London Drugs, contest sponsors, their advertising and promotional agencies, the independent judging organization, and their respective agents are not liable to an entrant in any manner relating to the contest or the awarding and use of the prize(s).

    9. This contest is governed by the laws of the Province of British Columbia and to the extent applicable the laws of Canada. It is subject to all applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws and regulations.

    10. By entering this contest, the entrant consents to the collection of all personal information included on their entry and agrees to the use and disclosure of such information by and between London Drugs, the independent judging organization, its advertising and promotional agency and their respective agents. The winner(s) also agrees to the collection, use and disclosure of their name, entry, photographs, voice and statements for London Drugs’ publicity purposes without further compensation. All personal information collected from entrants will be used only for the purposes of administering the contest and for marketing and promotional purposes as contemplated by these rules; under no circumstances will any personal information be sold or rented to third parties. All personal information collected by London Drugs will be kept in accordance with the privacy policy of London Drugs, which can be viewed at www.londondrugs.com, and in accordance with all applicable privacy laws.

    11. This Contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or any other social media platform which may be used to communicate this Contest. All such entities are completely released of all liability by each entrant in this Contest.  Any questions, comments or complaints regarding the Contest should be directed only to London Drugs

    12. London Drugs and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, and their employees, officers, directors and anyone involved in the production, development or implementation of this Contest or the provision of any prize are not liable or responsible for any failure of any website during this Contest, nor liable or responsible for any problems or technical malfunctions of computer online systems, servers, access providers, computer equipment, software or any e-mail, online or internet entry lost due to technical problems or traffic congestion on the internet or at any website or any combination thereof, including any injury or damage to an entrant’s or any other person’s computer or property related to or resulting from playing or downloading any material in the promotion.

    13. The right is reserved by London Drugs to terminate this contest, in whole or in part, and/or modify, amend or suspend the contest, and/or these rules in any way, should any cause beyond the reasonable control of London Drugs or its agents affect the proper administration thereof.

 

Beat the Holiday Rush by Ordering these Creative Gifts Early

In the blink of an eye, the holidays will be upon us. It happens every year – you think you have lots of time, and then suddenly, you’re scrambling to get everything ticked off your holiday shopping list. Why not make this year different? If you’re planning to send gifts or cards by mail, then there’s even more reason to be proactive and start ticking off your holiday gifting list early. To ensure they are delivered in time, Canada Post recommends shopping and getting your parcels in the mail early, as they are expecting to see a short-term surge in packages in December.

Our London Drugs Photolab has all kinds of gift ideas, from greeting cards to tree ornaments, that you can personalize with your own photos for some truly unique and thoughtful gifts. The best part? You can order them all without ever having to step foot in a mall. By ordering early, you can get your gifts delivered to your home well before the holidays – either by ordering online or using our London Drugs Photolab App for iOS and Android. Or if you need your gifts even quicker, you can opt for in-store pick-up conveniently at your nearest London Drugs store.

Keep reading below for 6 creative gift ideas that will help you beat the holiday rush!

Personalized Greeting Cards

If there’s one thing that belongs at the very top of your to-do list, it’s your holiday greeting cards. Depending on how far around the world you’re planning to send your cards, you’ll want to give them ample time to arrive (preferably at the start of the holidays). Before the holiday rush hits, take some time to design your cards, create your list of recipients, and get them ready to toss in the mail.

Holiday greeting cards are a tradition for many families, as they’re a chance to get your family and friends caught up on your year (and show off your beautiful family with a few photos too). To help you make your cards extra special, we offer personalization options that allow you to add photos and text directly to the cards – no more hand cramps writing them by hand! And pro tip: order a stack of 25 cards to save! Our Photolab also has a variety of themed card templates for Christmas, Hanukkah, and general Winter themes, so no matter what your traditions, you can find a beautiful card to customize. Check out this blog for more ideas for personalizing your holiday greeting cards.

Christmas Tree Ornaments

Gifts like personalized Christmas tree ornaments are an excellent choice for neighbours, co-workers, teachers, or anyone else you want to share a little something with to wish them a happy holiday season. If you’re gifting personalized tree ornaments, it’s best to order them before the holidays begin and give them out early. That way, they have time to hang them on the tree and fully appreciate them during the holiday season!

We have everything from beautiful wood ornaments to ceramic, crystal, pewter, metal, and ball ornaments. Each one can be customized with a photo, as well as a personal message or date if you like.

Puzzles & Playing Cards

With more time spent at home this year, puzzles have had a major resurgence in popularity. Our photo puzzles are a fun and unique gift your friends and family will surely appreciate, especially if they’ve exhausted their own collection of puzzles already. Just pick a photo of your choosing, and we’ll personalize the puzzle with that image! You can even order a puzzle that comes with a matching storage tin. Another option is to personalize a pack of playing cards with a special photo. These make great stocking stuffers too!

Cozy Photo Blankets & Pillows

What do you buy for the person who has everything? Rather than scrambling at the last minute for gifts for those tough-to-buy-for people on your holiday shopping list, here’s a gift idea you can order right now: a personalized photo blanket. These blankets can be customized with either one image or a collage of images and come in ultra-cozy textures like sherpa and fleece. Perfect for the chilly months ahead.

You can also personalize a pillow case with pictures – we even have sequined pillow cases that reveal your photo when you swipe your hand across the sequins! Choose from festive red or silver sequins.

These gifts are a great way to give the gift of coziness, plus the photo personalization adds uniqueness and thoughtfulness that they are sure to appreciate.

Key Chains & Personalized Pet Tags

Know of someone whose pet is their best friend? Here’s a creative gift idea they’re sure to love: a personalized pet tag or key chain! You can order the tag or key chain with a snapshot of their beloved pet printed on it or upload a fun design with their pet’s name. Personalized key chains also make a great stocking stuffer or small gift for anyone else on your holiday list.

Ready to get a head start on your holiday gifting? You can order your personalized gifts and greeting cards online through our London Drugs App (iOS and Android), or using our in-store kiosks. Don’t forget: you have the option to have your order shipped directly to you or pick it up conveniently at your local London Drugs once it’s ready.

7 Best Tips for Prepping Your Backyard and Patio for the Summer

Now that the weather has warmed up, it’s time to expand our living spaces outside. After all, the sun is shining, and the great outdoors are calling!

Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a chic downtown patio, there are several things you can do prep your backyard and patio for the summer.

Here are 7 tips to get you started!

1. Clean Surfaces

 

No matter what else you do to make your outdoor living space look nice, nothing will help if everything is dirty.

First, give all of the floor surfaces a good sweep. Once that’s done, it’s time to get in there and deep clean. 30-Seconds Outdoor Cleaner is great for cleaning large outdoor spaces, and it’s safe to use on lawns, plants, and fabrics. You can even attach the spray bottle right to a hose and douse all of the concrete, wood, siding, patio furniture, flower pots, and garden boxes if need be. Then just scrub with a brush and rinse.

Voilà! No more winter blahs.


2. Get Your Lawn Ready

 

Sprucing up the yard is more than just about mowing the grass – take your lawn to the next level with some extra TLC.

  • Aerate: Aeration helps the grass to breathe and also helps the water and nutrients reach the root system. You should aerate your lawn every 1 to 3 years, but high-traffic areas may require more attention. Here are some more aeration tips.
  • Rake: Debris that has accumulated over the winter can block sunlight and prevent water from reaching deep down to the roots of the grass.
  • Fertilize: Do a little research about what kind of grass you have, then fertilize accordingly.
  • Maintain: After checking your lawnmower for sharp blades, appropriate oil level, and properly inflated tires, mow the grass regularly, about once a week. Keep grass cut to a height of about 5 cm, except in the hottest part of the summer, when you should let it grow about 1 cm longer.
  • Water: Watering your lawn slowly allows water to get all the way down to the roots and avoids runoff, so choose a sprinkler that moves in smooth, sweeping motions. Don’t forget to check the water restrictions in your area, and water your yard at night or in the morning before the sun hits it so that the water doesn’t evaporate before it gets into the soil.


3. Prune Trees, Shrubs, and Potted Plants

 

Pruning dead and excess growth off trees, shrubs, or plants helps the plants grow, and gets rid of harmful insects and rot. Plus, it just looks nicer.

Make sure to also remove any branches hanging over driveways, sidewalks, or paths (these can be a major problem for anyone who has mobility limitations).

If you need a few tools to get started, you can grab heavy-duty pruning tools and protective gloves here. You got this!


4. Let Your Garden Grow

 

Choose a sunny corner of your yard or patio for a new flower bed, planter box, pot arrangement, or even a few containers for vegetables. Ask at the garden centre which varieties grow best in your region, then select your favourite variety of seasonals and perennials. It’s easier than you think!

Just remember to mind your watering — flowers don’t require as much moisture as vegetables.

If you’re short on space, check out this tutorial to make your own (adorable) shoe organizer herb garden! It works great even on a tiny outdoor balcony and you’ll have fresh, delicious herbs well into the fall.


5. Control Pests

 

Check your flowers, shrubs, and trees for any creepy crawlies. Remove any larger critters by hand or with a blast of the hose, and use natural pesticide for the rest. Not sure what works best? Here’s a handy guide to garden pests.

If you have some six-legged visitors in your yard that prefer to annoy people instead of plants, stock up on wasp, mosquito, or ant control products. While we share the outdoors with nature’s creatures, we don’t necessarily want any uninvited guests at our next backyard BBQ.


6. Ready, Set, Grill!

 

Speaking of BBQs, prepping yours is an essential part of preparing your yard for summer.

Luckily, modern grills are easy to clean. Turn your grill on for 10-15 minutes, then allow it to cool for a while before cleaning it with a heat-safe tool. (Wire brushes can be dangerous, so here are some alternative grill cleaning ideas.) And don’t forget to fill up your propane tank — nothing is worse than preparing delicious homemade burgers only to find out there’s not enough fuel to cook them.

We’ve got some great deals on grilling tools and BBQ essentials right here.


7. Sit Back and Relax

Now that you’ve done all the hard work of making your outdoor space beautiful, enjoy the fruits of your labour and relax. You’ve earned it!

Invest in some comfortable, sturdy, weather-resistant furniture to take full advantage of your backyard space.

If you’ve got the room, consider adding an entire dining set. If you have a smaller space, a bistro-sized table and chairs can make even the smallest patios fashionable and a joy to be on! You’ll be surprised how much time you and your family spend out there. Don’t forget to add a shady umbrella for the hot days, and some inviting mood lighting or a home fire-pit to really enjoy your outdoor experience well into the warm, summer evenings.

 

If your backyard or patio is in need of some upgrades, London Drugs has everything you need to improve and beautify your outdoor space.  Check out our Outdoor Living Event or just stop by and talk to one of our experts about your unique needs. We’d love to see you!

 

6 Vegan Recipes for Veganuary

If you’re someone who’s been considering adopting a vegan lifestyle, or if you’re just looking to explore some vegan meal options to incorporate into your diet, Veganuary is the perfect time to do so! For those who may not know, Veganuary is a global campaign that encourages people to try out a vegan diet for the month of January. Whether you’re a vegan veteran or a complete newbie, finding new and exciting vegan meals to cook can be a fun and creative challenge. So, we’ve rounded up some delicious meal ideas to inspire you this Veganuary.

Banana Matcha Green Tea Smoothie

This green smoothie is an easy, delicious breakfast you can quickly whip up in the mornings.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Blend together all the ingredients in a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth. Add in more nut milk or water if needed, to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Divide into two glasses and enjoy!

Recipe from Emilie Eats

Overnight Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding

This simple breakfast is great, as you can prepare the night before. Plus, you can change up the flavour combinations to whatever you like!

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cacao powder (sift first to reduce clumps), maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. Add a little almond milk at a time and whisk until a paste forms. Add the rest of the almond milk and whisk until smooth.
  2. Add chia seeds and whisk once more to combine. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or at least 3-5 hours, or until it has a pudding-like consistency.
  3. Leftovers keep covered in the fridge for 4-5 days, though best when fresh. Serve chilled with whatever toppings you like, such as fruit, nuts or granola.

Recipe from Minimalist Baker

Peanut Butter, Tahini and Chocolate Chip Cookies

These vegan cookies are super soft with a light, buttery crumb and an irresistibly nutty flavour. Packed with dark chocolate, peanut butter and tahini, they’re delicious without being overly rich.

And the best part is they’re easy to whip up and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Makes 6 cookies

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the ground psyllium husks/ground flax seeds with the water. Set aside to thicken into your egg mixture.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
  3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the vegan butter, sugars, soy milk and psyllium/flax egg mixture until smooth and fluffy. Add the peanut butter and tahini and beat for another few minutes.
  4. Add the flour mixture and beat gently until just combined. Finally, add the chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for decorating the top of the cookies later.
  5. Cover the dough with cling film and place in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 170c and line two baking trays with baking parchment.
  7. Using a cookie dough scoop or a tablespoon, place scoops of dough around the size of walnuts on the prepared baking trays with a few inches between each cookie. You should fit 10 per tray.
  8. Top each cookie with a couple of the reserved chocolate chips. Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the sesame seeds and the flaky sea salt.
  9. Gently press down each ball of dough with a fork. Don’t worry about making a pattern or design on top – this will disappear as they bake.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes, being careful not to let the cookies burn on the edges. Remove from the oven and leave to cool fully on a wire cooling rack.
  11. Once cooled, serve and enjoy!

Recipe from Veganuary.com

Vegan Meatballs & Spaghetti

A delicious savoury dish that makes a great meal option for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients – Meatballs

Ingredients – Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, very finely chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove, crushed
  • Small pinch of chilli flakes
  • 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp soft brown sugar
  • ½ small bunch of basil, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Add the dried porcini into a bowl and cover with boiling water. Leave to soak for 20 mins.
  2. Meanwhile heat 1 tbsp of olive oil a frying pan. Add the onion and fry over low heat for 10 minutes or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and paprika and cook for 1 min.
  3. Add the black beans and oats into a food processor and blend until you have a chunky, textured mixture. Scoop out the beans into a mixing bowl and stir through the miso, breadcrumbs and cooked onion mix. Strain and finely chop the porcini mushrooms and add those (keep the liquid for soup or risotto). Season and roll into 12 balls and chill in the fridge while you make the sauce.
  4. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a saucepan. Add the onion and fry over low heat for 10 minutes or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and chilli and cook for 1 min. Stir through the tomatoes and sugar and season to taste. Simmer uncovered for 20 mins.
  5. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Heat the remaining 2 tbsp oil for the meatballs in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the balls and fry for 5 minutes until evenly brown. Transfer to a baking tray and put in the oven to cook through for 12 mins.
  6. Add the cooked meatballs to the pan of sauce and toss everything to coat, then scatter with the basil. Serve with spaghetti or soft polenta.

Recipe from BBC Good Food

Amazing Lentil Soup

A slightly spicy, hearty soup that will warm you up on even the coldest nights!

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, lightly drained
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, picked over and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup chopped fresh collard greens or kale, tough ribs removed
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (½ to 1 medium lemon), to taste

Instructions

  1. Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. One-fourth cup of olive oil may seem like a lot, but it adds a lovely richness and heartiness to this nutritious soup.
  2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and carrot and cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder and thyme. Cook until fragrant while stirring constantly, about 30 seconds. Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes, stirring often, in order to enhance their flavor.
  4. Pour in the lentils, broth and the water. Add 1 teaspoon salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then partially cover the pot and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
  5. Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a blender. Securely fasten the lid, protect your hand from steam with a tea towel placed over the lid, and purée the soup until smooth. Pour the puréed soup back into the pot. (Or, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.)
  6. Add the chopped greens and cook for 5 more minutes or until the greens have softened to your liking. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Taste and season with more salt, pepper and/or lemon juice until the flavours really sing. For a spicier soup, add another pinch or two of red pepper flakes.
  7. Serve while hot. Leftovers will keep well for about 4 days in the refrigerator, or can be frozen for several months (just defrost before serving).

Recipe from Cookie + Kate

3 Ingredient Vegan Banana Brownies

A super-simple and satisfying take on brownies – Chocolate lovers rejoice!

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 350 degrees
  2. In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas until lump-free.
  3.  Mix in the nut butter and cocoa powder.
  4. Grease a baking sheet, and evenly distribute the batter into the pan.
  5. Bake for 17-20 minutes. Use the toothpick method to determine if they’re done.
  6. Let the brownies chill in the refrigerator for 45 minutes.
  7. Store in the refrigerator for best results.

Recipe by Simply Taralynn

 

Explore of full selection of vegan products for Veganuary here.

13+ Ways to make it Through Hot Summer Nights Without AC

Of course, an air conditioner is one obvious solution to cooling down the inside of your house or apartment on a hot, summer day. But not everyone has an air conditioner (if you’re tempted, we do know where you can get a great one). If AC doesn’t suit you, you’ll need to find a way to survive this summer.

So what’s a sweltering Canadian to do during a heat wave? Here are some ways you can cool down your space without an air conditioner.

Fans! Fans! Fans!

Obviously, everyone’s first choice for easy home cooling is a good-quality fan. But did you know that there are optimal ways to set up fans in your home to maximize cooling?

  • The first thing to remember is that fans cool off people, not air, so make sure there is a fan in the room where people are – running a fan in an empty room doesn’t really cool it off.
  • If the air outside your home is cooler than inside, place the fan in front of an open window pointing into the room. If it’s warmer outside than inside, flip the fan around to encourage warm air inside to head outside.
  • Ceiling fans in your home? Lucky you! Make sure they’re spinning counter-clockwise on a higher speed to create a wind-chill effect.
  • If you need that extra dose of chill, kick it old school and put a bowl of ice directly under a fan. The cool air and dampness coming off of the ice will make a difference.
  • Your bathroom exhaust fan can also suck some of the unwanted heat and humidity out of a smaller space, so open the bathroom door and keep that thing going.

Put your windows to work

If you live in a multi-level house, you can hack your windows to get the most out of any outside breezes. To create a cooling pressure current, open the top section of windows on the downwind side of your house, and open the bottom section of windows on the upwind side.

If you live on one floor with windows on both sides, figure out which direction the breeze is blowing, open the windows wide on the downwind side, and close them a bit on the upwind side. Add fans in front of the windows pointing in the direction of the outside breeze. Like this:

Also try hanging a damp bed sheet in front of an open upwind window to increase the cool factor.

Close off unused rooms

If you’re doing your darndest to cool off the room you’re in, make sure to close the doors of the other rooms of the house that you’re not in to maximize your cooling efficiency.

Throw some shade

Up to 30% of unwanted heat comes through your windows, so be sure to close your blinds and curtains during the hot part of the day, especially on south and west-facing windows. If you’re in a house, consider also planting trees near south and west-facing windows to create your own cool shade.

To nude or not to nude

There is a hot debate (pardon the pun) about whether or not sleeping naked actually does keep you cooler. If you want to go in the buff, there is evidence to show that it can keep your body temperature down. But if you sweat a lot, it can actually make you hotter, because natural fabrics draw the sweat away from your body and make you feel more comfortable. It basically comes down to a matter of personal choice, so if you do choose to sleep in clothes on a hot night, go for loose-fitting, natural fabrics, like cotton.

Let the night in

If the air is cooler at night where you live, make the most of it by throwing open every window possible for the entire night, then closing them up when the day starts to get hot. You’ll keep the house cool for at least part of the day by capturing those sweet evening breezes.

Use a hot water bottle

No, don’t put hot water in it, silly. Fill it with water, put it in the freezer for a couple of hours, then put it at the end of the bed to keep your feet cool while you sleep.

Put other weird stuff in the freezer

Your freezer is a strong ally in the battle against overheating. Clear out those freezer-burnt french fries and make room for your pyjamas, socks, t-shirts, pillow cases and bedsheets. Keep them in there until you’re ready to use them for some extra cooling help.

Switch to compact fluorescent lights

CFLs make sense for energy savings and environmental impact, but did you know that old-fashioned incandescent bulbs waste about 90 percent of their energy in the heat they emit? So ditching them will not only save on your energy bill, you’ll also save yourself some unwanted heat.

Stay hydrated

If the weather is unusually hot, make sure to drink more water than usual. You’re likely sweating more, but if you’re not properly hydrated, your body can’t produce the sweat it needs to cool off the surface of the skin, and you’ll be hotter than you need to be. Hydration is especially important at night when you’re trying to get some sleep. Have a small glass of ice cold water right before you go to bed, and keep an insulated bottle of water with ice beside your bed for any late-night sweat sessions.

Bored of drinking all that water? We’ve got some yummy tips to make your plain water more fun.

Freeze your snacks

The key to staying cool without outside help is chilling your insides. Eating and drinking cold things doesn’t just taste good, it helps reduce your body temperature. And it doesn’t just have to be ice cream! Here are some ideas for healthy and simple bedtime snacks you can try this summer:

    • Watermelon wedges – simply cut up a watermelon, put the wedges in a container in the freezer for a couple of hours, and let thaw for 5 min before eating
  • Blueberries – thaw for 5 min before eating. Also nice in yogurt or ice water.
  • Grapes – same as above. Are you seeing a pattern?
  • Banana “Ice Cream” – peel and freeze ripe bananas, then simply blend and serve in a bowl.
  • Yogurt – open individual yogurt cups, add a paper straw or popsicle stick and freeze for super simple frozen yogurt pops.
  • Juice pops – add 100% pure fruit juice to frozen pop moulds.

Hit the showers

A cool shower anytime of the day will do wonders to beat the heat. If the heat is keeping you awake at night, stop the insanity, hop out of bed and treat yourself to a 5-minute mini-shower, then hop back into bed. You’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll get comfortable.

Wet your bed

…but not in the way you think. Before you hit the hay, dampen your sheets with a spray bottle of cool water. You could even add a couple of drops of lavender essential oil to the bottle for an aromatherapy boost! You’ll thank us in the morning.


Have you got any hacks for beating the heat that we missed? Let us know in the comments!

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