Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas from Blogger Melissa Cartier: Express Books & Book-It Mini Books

Hi everyone, Melissa from Melissa Cartier here again.

My husband and I have a little tradition where our only gifts for each other are meaningful, within a budget we set and must fit in our stockings. I love opening my stocking each year, and some of my favourite memories as a kid was Santa placing my stocking at the foot of my bed for me to find when I woke up. As for buying stocking sized gifts for my husband… it’s a challenge. He’s very practical and doesn’t really like chocolate (we are very different haha).

While looking at the different creative projects on the London Drugs Photolab App (iOS version only), I noticed the Book-It Mini Books. The price easily fit within our set budget and they are small enough to fit in a stocking. Kevin and I have created so many memories with our son this past year that it was so easy to put together a little book of some of our favourites. While I didn’t need the quick timeline, I was really impressed these Book-It Mini Books can be made in 24 hours!

The Book-It Mini Book I made is adorable. I chose the black hard cover, pearl finish paper and a single image on each page. I also chose the centered square image option which I love because it reminds me of a little book of Instagram photos.  It’s going to make a great stocking stuffer but if you’re looking for smaller gifts that are still meaningful the Express Books and Book-It Mini Books are a great option. They are quick, easy to make and budget friendly, so they are perfect for co-workers, your child’s teachers or anyone you’ve travelled with.

I love getting photos developed and putting them into photo albums (with each photo dated, of course) but I could see myself using the Book-It Mini Books as little keep sakes after notable events where we take quite a few photos. Family trips, birthdays or even holidays. I have so many photos from Thomas’ first Christmas that would be so sweet to compile in a Book-It. I know Kevin is going to love finding this little book of memories in his stocking this year!

Changing of the Gourd: 9 Perfectly Pleasant Pumpkin Recipes

We are well into #PSL season, as you’ve probably gathered from your Instagram feed. (That’s Pumpkin Spice Latte season, for you non-coffee drinkers.) Luckily for foodies, there is so much more to this versatile autumn gourd than just coffee shops and Thanksgiving pie, so we’ve put together some of our favourite pumpkin recipes to help you celebrate everyone’s favourite fall flavour.

1. Pumpkin, Beef and Black Bean Chili 

This hearty, savoury dish has a surprising hint of sweetness from the pumpkin that will warm up any cool fall night. Double the recipe and save for a freezer full of leftovers to enjoy throughout the season—it’s no secret that chili is always better the next day (or week, or month). Don’t forget the chipotle sour cream!

[Find the recipe at Country Living]

pumpkin recipes - chili

2. Savoury Pumpkin Pancakes

Pumpkin for breakfast? Of course! Inspired by traditional Indian cooking, these healthy and simple pancakes are also known as besan ka puda. Ingredients can be substituted to make custom flavours, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. Perfect for getting you out of that breakfast rut.

[Find the recipe at Ruchi’s Kitchen]

pumpkin recipes - pumpkin pancakes

 

3. Glorious Roasted Pumpkin Soup

Even the people who aren’t into the whole #PSL thing will find it hard to pass up a nice, hot bowl of velvety, spiced pumpkin soup. Top with pecans or goat cheese, throw on a pair of fuzzy socks and a cable knit sweater, and you’ll be a Pinterest board come to life. A fall classic.

[Find the recipe at JamieOliver.com]

pumpkin recipes - pumpkin soup

4. Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Got a craving for a creamy pasta dish, but trying to cut down on the fat? We’ve got you covered. The richness of the pumpkin in this recipe takes the place of the loads of cheese traditionally found in a baked pasta dish. Comfort food level: EXPERT.

[Find the recipe at Country Living]

pumpkin recipes - pumpkin shells

5. Easy Pumpkin Curry

Pumpkin and curry go together like a pile of leaves and a jumping toddler. Skip the take-out and instead whip up this spicy crowd-pleaser, even if you’re short on time. You can pour this delicious concoction over your favourite rice, vegetables, or tofu, or whichever combination of the three satisfies your current craving.

[Find the recipe at A Beautiful Mess]

pumpkin recipes - pumpkin curry

6. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

We hope you hung on to the innards of your jack-o’-lantern, because these crunchy snacks are a fall must-have. Packed with iron, magnesium, fibre, zinc, potassium, healthy fats, protein, and tryptophan (which can boost your mood and help you sleep), vegans and vegetarians have been using pumpkin seeds for years as a natural source of nutrients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavours: soy sauce, cayenne, cinnamon, nutmeg – time to get creative!

[Find the recipe at Oh! She Glows]

pumpkin recipes - roasted pumpkin seeds

7. Savoury Pumpkin Pizza

Yes, it sounds strange on paper, but we promise this will be on your top 10 list of best pizza EVER. Mild and creamy havarti cheese is the perfect flavour accompaniment with the veggies in this dish, and a fun change from mozzarella. Don’t skip the sweetened onions step—they’re the secret ingredient that will put this dish over the top into OMG territory. Meat eaters and vegetarians alike will be instantly addicted, and gluten-free foodies can use their favourite GF crust.

[Find the recipe at Love Lola]

pumpkin recipes - savoury pumpkin pizza

8. Chipotle Pumpkin Veggie Burger

Looking for an alternative to your pre-packaged veggie burger option? Try these quick and healthy pumpkin patties. Spices can be dialed up or down to your preference, and toppings are open to creative interpretation. Don’t get boxed in by the bun—these baked, crunchy beauties can also be tucked into a super-healthy lettuce wrap or crumbled on salads. They also freeze nicely, so they can be made ahead of time. Future you will heartily thank present you.

[Find the recipe at Peas & Crayons]

pumpkin recipes - chipotle pumpkin burger

9. Cheesecake Factory Pumpkin Cheesecake

Who doesn’t love a trip to the Cheesecake Factory during a visit south of the border? Well, someone did us all a favour and broke down their creamy, decadent pumpkin cheesecake recipe, and now we’re here to share it with you. (Yeah, you’re welcome.) Next to the prevalent pie, this modern classic is a fall dessert staple. Pro tip: replace white sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, richer taste.

[Find the recipe at Genius Kitchen]

pumpkin recipes - cheesecake factory pumpkin cheesecake

Tuck into these perfectly pleasing pumpkin recipes and enjoy all that fall has to offer. Happy eating!

Graphic Eye Makeup Tutorial

If you’re an eyeliner lover, you’re going to be completely obsessed with our newest makeup tutorial! Our Beauty Advisor Maheema will show you a creative and eye-catching graphic look using the newest eyeliner products available at London Drugs, including Annabelle Cosmetics’ Neo Chic Graphic Collection, and the hotly-anticipated Revlon Exactify Wheel Tip Liner.

Products Featured:

 

Subscribe to London Drugs on YouTube and stay tuned for more beauty videos!

Your Guide to Creating a Cozy Plaid Life

The changing weather and cooler temperatures are bringing out our cozy side. What better way is there to prepare for the winter ahead then by wrapping yourself in layers and layers of comfort.  From a sturdy plaid flannel, to accessories that make a statement, this is your guide to creating a totally cozy plaid life this fall.

Invest in a Great Plaid Shirt

The red plaid shirt is a classic for a reason. Aside from being the unofficial Canadian uniform, a good plaid shirt is durable, warm, and relatively weather-proof (particularly if you go for a flannel). Whether you are sitting around a campfire on a chilly fall evening, or running holiday errands in the slush, the plaid shirt just makes sense.

Cozy Plaid

Photo by Javier Canales

Throw Down for Cozy Plaid

Expert cozy-ists know that a plaid throw is a must-have for fall. The thicker, the better. Curl up on the couch under your plaid throw with a good book or your favourite old movie. Bonus points if you casually sip hot chocolate.

Cozy Plaid

Photo by Cory Bouthillette

 

Take Plaid With You

Bring the spirit of coziness along with you everywhere you go with a Roots 73 Plaid Folio Phone Case. It’s a stylish and durable case that subtly showcases your commitment to the cozy plaid life wherever you are.

Cozy Plaid iPhone Case

Paint the Town Plaid

Really go for the gusto by turning an old tabletop into an eye-catching statement furniture piece. The Rain on a Tin Roof blog has a no-measure method for painting a plaid pattern using painter’s tape.

cozy plaid

Photo by Jenna LaFevor

There you have it. That’s everything you need to create a plaid-tastic fall. Wrap yourself in layers of flannel and warmth, and indulge in that lumberjack-chic life. And please, snap some photos of your #PlaidLife and share them with us on Instagram (@LondonDrugs) or Facebook.

Wonder Woman Nail Art for Halloween

Wonder Woman is set to be one of the most popular Halloween costumes of 2017. If you’re planning on transforming into the princess of the Amazons this Halloween, we’ve got the perfect mani to match. Jayne, nail art enthusiast and blogger of Cosmetic Proof, will show you step by step how nail the look – no superpowers necessary – using the brand new Prim + Proper nail lacquers, available exclusively at London Drugs. The formula is 7-free, non-chip, and has a brilliant shine that lasts and lasts. You won’t be able to resist their Canadiana-inspired shade names, either!

Products Featured:

 

Subscribe to London Drugs on YouTube, and check out Jayne at Cosmetic Proof. Stay tuned for more beauty videos!

It’s Crock-tober! Share Your Classic Crock Pot Recipe to Win

Autumn is in full swing, and with it comes the changing colours, crisper air, and a desire for comfort food. There’s nothing better than having your crock pot simmering away on your kitchen counter with a delicious soup just waiting for you to enjoy.

Crock Pot Recipes - London Drugs Blog

We know you love Crock Pots. Now you can win one!

October is the month where we pull out our crock pots and those old favourite recipes we love. Maybe some are passed down through the family, or others you’ve only tried recently. But why keep those recipes to yourself?

We’d love to hear what your favourite crock pot meal is and put some of those great recipes into action. Plus, share the love with others!

Four ways to enter the contest:

1. Submit your recipe in the comments below (1 entry)
2. Enter through our sign up form from Oct. 28 – Nov 1 (1 entry)
3. Share your recipe on Twitter with #LDCrocktober (1 entry)
4. Follow @londondrugs on Instagram and let us know in the comments (1 entry)

Also, here are some of our favourite recipes to make for an easy Crock Pot dinner!

1. Crock Pot Baked Spaghetti

Slow Cooker Crock Pot Baked Spaghetti - London Drugs Blog

Who can go wrong with a delicious cheesy baked spaghetti in the Crock Pot? Try this fool-proof recipe from The Magical Slow Cooker or share your very own recipe with us in the comments below!

2. Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Crock Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

Sometimes all you need is chicken soup and a good book on a crisp fall day. This classic Crock Pot recipe from The Black Peppercorn will soothe your soul – but we also want to know what else you would add to it!

3. Crock Pot Turkey Meatballs

Crock Pot Turkey Meatballs - London Drugs Blog

Meatballs are a crowd favourite and oh-so-easy to whip up in the slow cooker. Try this tasty recipe from Well Plated and tell us in the comments below what you would pair your meatballs with!

We will be giving away Crock Pots all month long through Facebook, Twitter, and right here on the blog. Check back often to see dates for each giveaway!

Losing Things in Your Kid’s Backpack? We Take Care of That.

With school in session, are important things like forms, documents, and money getting lost in your kid’s backpack? Try creating a ‘post office’ and ‘bank’ to keep supplies safe!

This LD Solutions life hack for your grade-school kids will help your child stay organized and eliminate any crumpled notices or lost money for field trips.

Safe supplies, happy parents! Follow these easy steps:

  1. Get two different sizes of clear zip envelopes.
  2. Create a bank and post office with each envelope using a label.
  3. Place field trip forms and cash needed into each envelope.
  4. Keep it fun for your kids to drop off their forms and money at school – and vice versa!

Need other great tips and tricks to make life easier?

Check out more of our helpful LD Solutions Videos on YouTube or here on the London Drugs Blog:

How to Fix a Cracked Makeup Palette

How to De-Wrinkle a Shirt in a Jiffy

How to Remove a Ring Stuck on Your Finger

How to Easily Remove a Stripped Screw

How to Peel Potatoes without a Peeler

How to Remove Nail Polish from Your Skin

How to Cure Bootflop

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