It was a wild and crazy week, what with Sandy blowing through town and leaving her wreckage. Fortunately we were left unscathed, and I'm truly grateful. Then I came across this hilarious kids' pacifier with a fake moustache attached. It's so awful it's almost cute.

We like to enforce the belief that "there is no such thing as bad weather --just bad clothing'" because we don't want our kids to be cold weather wimps. They will be dressed in style and warmth with these 19 winter gear picks that are sure to keep them outside playing for hours.

It's safe to say that the virtual pop-up store is the latest and greatest. It's no wonder that with the holidays approaching Mattel and Walmart have come together to launch the first one for commuters in Toronto. The virtual toy store will run for four weeks and will provide the ultimate ease in shopping by providing images of toys and a UPC code to scan for purchase. Then the commuter/shopper goes home and waits for the delivery.

We're not going to lie, being a parent is tough work. But there are lots of perks -- like those sweet sloppy kisses and trips to the toy store. Every. Year. Have fun getting started on your holiday toy list with our 34 Hot Toys for the Holidays.

We have officially entered into the holiday season, whether we like it or not. It's all about the sounds of Christmas jingles in grocery stores, gingerbread house kits, sparkles, baubles and great gift ideas everywhere we turn. Instead of fighting it, I say bring it. Get your shopping done early so you can enjoy the festivities and family when the big day (and school break) arrives.

Don't panic. It's still early enough to get organized with your annual Christmas cards. We know you want your beautiful family to stand out from the rest. That's why we rounded up a list of the 18 Best Holiday Cards. It won't take long to find something fabulous and original -- just for you.

This week I am obsessed with all things old school. Specifically, I mean the popularity of, recurring presence of and constant reference to all things "old school." It's so over used that it's almost (as my kids would say) "over," but we keep hearing the phrase (as in "kickin' it old school"). Here are five examples of old school being new again that I noticed this week.

"Holiday budget" doesn't need to be an oxymoron. Our Top 20 Gifts Under $25 has something for everyone on your list--including the babysitter, the dog and the teacher.

It was another busy week. The local news captivated me with football, mayorality disgrace, stolen toys and Justin Bieber's wardrobe malfunctions. All train wrecks.