Free Form

A beautiful Winter Room

2011-09-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last post, and many things have changed in my life since then... I am now living in Toronto and going to school... And with that comes a new apartment. It has been fun trying to decorate a place with only hand me downs (serious, the only piece of furniture I have bought so far is my bed).

Here is a room that has me inspired. Stunning muted colours, and layers of textures. It makes me want to stop studying and start white washing the chair I found on the street this weekend!

Pretty Petals

Speaking of Bees

2010-09-28T16:06:00.001-07:00

This bee post brings us slightly below the hairline… to the ears. I read a little while ago that a study out of India correlated the decline in bees with the increase of cell phone usage. It’s not to difficult to believe that the radio waves coming from mobile phones are disrupting bees’ navigational abilities.

If more studies support this theory, I will have to think twice before making a call on my mobile. I can’t imagine a world without bees (well, I don’t think there would be much of a living world!)

On a positive note, there is a chance that we can change the frequency of the radio waves so that they don’t impede the worker bees’ ability to find the hive.

Via Flickr - Wolfpix

Style forward, comb back

2010-09-22T13:05:00.001-07:00

So on several of my periodic scans of the online NY Times Global edition, the right column kept on bombarding me with the new hairstyle…. the Beehive! I couldn’t be happier, I have longed for the days when I could create ridiculous volume and still have it back and away from my face! Besides I really loved the 50s and 60s. Now if only I could learn how to make one that doesn’t look like Amy Winehouse!

Jennifer Lopez rocks it.

So does Katherine Heigl

And of course so does the NY Times Model

I seriously think I am going to go home and try this tonight… I’ll let you know how it goes, it will either be Mad Men here I come, or conditioner here I purchase…

Burlap Ready!

2010-09-20T16:03:00.001-07:00

Did I mention that I am going to be a bridesmaid? Well I am! Now that I am back in the city, I’m really excited for the prep and planning, although it is less than a month away! Today the bride to be and I went to go pick up the burlap we are going to use for the table centers, 42 yards! I love the use of burlap in fall weddings, the material is so rustic and natural, and brings in a wonderful texture. Together they will make the wedding venue a much more comfortable and homey feel!

Via Style me Pretty

Via Ruffle Blog

I have never been to a burlap ‘factory’ before and it smelt very farm like. I wish I took pictures but it was great! Burlap fluff everywhere and piles and piles of wonderful burlap! You also know that burlap is popular when Apple was considering using it :)

PS – if you are looking for Burlap in the Vancouver area Burnaby Bag and Burlap was very helpful and friendly!

Oldie but Goodie

2010-09-14T12:27:00.001-07:00

It seems like I like my original blog template is the best. Despite spending most of the morning trying to find another one, I have decided to return to my initial set up. It is slightly different then before but the feeling is still the same. Hopefully with my template back to normal and my newly downloaded windows live writer, I will actually blog more frequently. I realized over dinner with my girlfriends on Sunday night, that I didn’t stop blogging because I didn’t have anything to write about, however I didn’t have the time or patience to spend hours editing the posts, and well that is just not a good enough reason to stop blogging!

So I have decided to give blogging one last try. It’s not going to be a daily blog, but I will try and post weekly. Post topics will be whatever my heart desires, and unfortunately not only discuss design, there will be more personal content and probably a lot more random thoughts! I’m excited to have this new found freedom. I hope that inspiration will flow more freely then it has in the past 6 months!!

So, welcome to the new Free Form. I hope you enjoy.

Recipes to remember

2010-09-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

So I might have spent most of the day watching cooking shows... And there were a lot of great recipes that I don't want to forget!! So here they are:

English Onion Soup - Jamie Oliver

· A good knob of butter
· Olive oil
· A good handful of fresh sage leaves, 8 leaves reserved for serving
· 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
· 5 red onions, peeled and sliced
· 3 large white onions, peeled and sliced
· 3 banana shallots, peeled and sliced
· 300g of leeks, trimmed, washed and sliced
· Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
· 2 litres of good-quality hot beef, chicken or vegetable stock
· 8 slices of good-quality stale bread, 2cm thick
· 200g freshly grated cheddar cheese
· Worcestershire sauce

Put the butter, 2 glugs of olive oil, the sage and garlic into a thick-bottomed, non-stick pan. Stir everything round and add the onions, shallots and leeks. Season with salt and pepper. Place a lid on the pan, leaving it slightly ajar, and cook slowly for 50 minutes, without colouring the vegetables too much. Remove the lid for the last 20 minutes - your onions will become soft and golden. Stir occasionally so that nothing catches on the bottom. Having the patience to cook the onions slowly, slowly, gives you an incredible sweetness and an awesome flavour, so don't be tempted to speed this bit up.

When your onions and leeks are lovely and silky, add the stock. Bring to the boil, turn the heat down and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. You can skim any fat off the surface if you like, but I prefer to leave it because it adds good flavour.

Preheat the oven or grill to maximum. Toast your bread on both sides. Correct the seasoning of the soup. When it's perfect, ladle it into individual heatproof serving bowls and place them on a baking tray. Tear toasted bread over each bowl to fit it like a lid. Feel free to push and dunk the bread into the soup a bit. Sprinkle with some grated Cheddar and drizzle over a little Worcestershire sauce.

Dress your reserved sage leaves with some olive oil and place one on top of each slice of bread. Put the baking tray into the preheated oven or under the grill to melt the cheese until bubbling and golden. Keep an eye on it and make sure it doesn't burn! When the cheese is bubbling, very carefully lift out the tray and carry it to the table. Enjoy.

Balsamic Roasted Potatoes and Onions - Jamie Oliver

1.5kg medium-size waxy potatoes (such as Charlotte), peeled and quartered lengthways
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
olive oil
200g butter, cubed
a bunch of fresh rosemary, leaves picked and chopped
1 whole bulb of garlic, quartered or smashed
5 medium red onions, peeled and quartered
350ml cheap balsamic vinegar
Preheat the oven to 200C/gas mark 6. Put the potatoes into a pan of boiling, salted water and cook for about eight minutes, then drain and return to the pan. Chuff them up a bit by shaking the pan.
Get a roasting tray, into which you can fit the potatoes in one layer, and heat it on the hob. When hot, pour a glug of olive oil into it and add the butter, rosemary and garlic. Add the potatoes and toss them in all the flavours. Add the onions and all the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Cook for five minutes on the hob to reduce the balsamic vinegar a little. Place the tray on the top shelf and cook for about 50 minutes, until the potatoes and onions are dark, sticky and crispy - removing the tray to toss the onions and potatoes halfway through. After an hour, the meat should be cooked. Prick it with a sharp knife - if the juices run clear, it's done; if not, pop it back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, keeping the potatoes warm.

Salmon Cakes - Giada De Laurentiis

Salmon:
1 pound skinless salmon fillet (see Cook's Note)
Olive oil, for drizzling
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Patties:
large egg, beaten
1/3 cup (1/2-ounce) chopped fresh chives

26 saltine crackers, crushed, divided
1/2 cup frozen corn, thawed
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons mayonnaise, plus more, as needed
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Sauce:
1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
1 1/2 tablespoons capers, rinsed, drained and chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions
Salmon: Put a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Grill until the flesh is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. Set aside to cool for 20 minutes.

Patties: Using a fork, flake the salmon into 1/2-inch pieces and put into a medium bowl. Add the egg, chives, 1/2 of the crushed crackers, the corn, mustard, mayonnaise, capers, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix gently until just combined. Form the mixture into 2 1/2-inch diameter patties, about 3/4 inches thick. (If the mixture is too dry to form into patties, add extra mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon at a time,) Carefully coat the patties in the remaining crushed crackers and refrigerate for 1 hour. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Add the patties and cook until golden and crispy, about 7 to 8 minutes each side. Drain on paper towels.

Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, capers, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Arrange the salmon cakes on a platter and serve alongside the sauce.

Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Penne - Giada De Laurentiis

· Vegetable oil cooking spray
· 1 (2-pound) butternut or kombucha squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
· 1 onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
· Olive oil, for drizzling
· Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
· 1 pound penne pasta
· 1 cup (8 ounces) goat cheese, crumbled
· 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, toasted (see Cook's Note)
· 1 packed cup chopped fresh basil leaves
· 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan

Directions
Put an oven rack in the upper third of the oven. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet, liberally, with vegetable oil cooking spray. Set aside.
Mix the squash and onion together and arrange in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bake for to 40 to 45 minutes until the vegetables are golden and cooked through. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

While the squash mixture is cooling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and reserve about 2 cups of the pasta water. Put the pasta, goat cheese and 1 cup of pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss until the cheese has melted and forms a creamy sauce. Add the squash and onion mixture, the walnuts and the basil. Toss well and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with Parmesan and serve.

Photo a day for 2921 days

2010-05-30T20:41:00.000-07:00

I've heard of the 365 project, where you take a photo each day... and I think it is great. My friend is doing it right now and I must say it is quite impressive, but to take a photo of yourself each day for 8 years. That takes dedication! Check it out!

Template Search

2010-05-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

Over the next little while I'll be changing my blogger template... Going to try some new ones out and see how they fit. Please bare with me... Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Today's is sail away.... What do you think?

Beauty I had to share

2010-05-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

I have been on a complete hiatus from blogging. Very odd, especially after asking everyone how they blog everyday.... But for some reason I feel compelled to post at the moment. I have a long list of topics and thoughts that I would love to share with you, but am still at work and really need to get out of here... So I'll leave you with this beautiful image that, despite this hectic week, just stopped me in my tracks.

From Lou O'Bedlam via SF Girl By Bay

I heart Jamie Oliver

2010-04-06T20:56:00.000-07:00

He had me at episode one. I didn't even search him out, he automatically came on after the show I was watching online was over. I was immediately drawn to the him and quickly emotionally invested.... In a TV show! His passion for fresh food and his desire to make a change is so inspirational. I'm currently inthralled in the 3rd episode as I write...

Images from Jamie Oliver website

I am going to head out and pick up one of Jamie's books... because in Jamie's words "fresh food, that's what it's all about, brotha"

Saturdays are for....Spring Bulbs

2010-03-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

A little spring cleaning this weekend.... and some spring planting planning. This book might just give me some ideas! If only I lived in the country and had a large garden... ha ha!

Via Apartment Therapy

How do you do it?

2010-03-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

Browsing my regular blogs I am constantly inspired by the continual creative posting and writing displayed. I always want to ask - how do you post everyday? How do you find inspiration? Despite every single one of the authors having active, lively and busy lives, they constantly coming up with new ideas, writing such beautiful verses, producing posts which I am certain takes a significant amount of time to compose. So I am looking for advice as to how you go about posting. Is it the first thing you do in the morning? Do you write several posts at once and then time them to come up every morning? Are you a night owl that ends their day with a bit of writing and self reflection before heading to bed? More importantly, do you ever sleep!?

As I am sure it is noticed, I am not a very consistent blogger, and I would like to improve on my less than sporadic posting tendencies. So I am looking for advice.

All of these images are from the series "Where we blog from" on Jane Flanagan's Blog I'll Seen, I'll Said. Jane, I must say, your words and images day after day are truly an inspiration. I am always blown away by how many splendid ideas you so eloquently discuss on your blog on a weekly basis.

Literature Display

2010-03-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Bookcases have been on my mind lately. It is probably because a) Ever since January I have been collecting books to fulfill my new years resolution to read more, b) currently my bookcase looks like a bomb went off, (I hope to spring clean it this weekend), and c) country has been on the mind lately and whenever I go to the country, I read... Coincidentally, some spectacular bookshelves have popped up online lately as well.... I am attracted to these four full wall bookshelves.

Airy and very fresh, from Design*Sponge's sneak a peak of Lyndsay Caleo and Fitzhugh Karol via Cup of Jo (I also love the wood beams on the ceiling)

Cozy and vintage from William Waldron via Desire to Inspire

Books at all heights designed by Bernstein & Audriulli via Desire to Inspire

Bright rustic shelves via skona hem and via coco & kelley

Dearest Kristin

2010-03-24T23:54:00.001-07:00

A little pic for my cousin who just turned a whooping.... 2_ years old! (We don't look a day out of university!) xox Happy Birthday Kristin!

Professional photography by Kevin Long!

Relish the Rural

2010-03-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

I've been itching for the country... farms, barns, cottages, you name it. Wide open spaces. Rooms that are weathered, worn, rustic, surrounded with wool, flannel, and denim. And when I stumbled over these images, I was quickly transported out of the noise and hustle of town into my peaceful country paradise. I'm sure I'll be revisiting this post often...

All images are from the lovely Desire to Inspire

Concentrate on Kindness

2010-02-10T10:29:00.001-08:00

Via Doobybrain

I tend to get easily wrapped up in planning and organizing and making sure everything 'works out'. My brain is full of logistical maneuvers, checked boxes and timing alignments.... and sometimes in the wake of my planning torrent, people's emotions get bruised. I don't realize that I have hurt people until too late, leaving my heart strangled by remorse and with no actions left to change the damage I have done. When this happens (such as now) I am physically disabled by a tightness in my chest and pressure in my ears which stops me dead in my tracks. Try as I might to make excuses, it becomes painfully apparent that my haste to create action, or solicit decisions neglects the goal of all my planning and organizing: Creating times to enjoy and appreciate the people I love and cherish. Something that shouldn't really take too much planning and organization....

With the Olympics coming two days away, I, like many Vancouverites, need forget about the logistics of the games and embrace the spirit - that warm feeling right above my spleen that brings a tingle to my nose and extra fluid to my eyes. I need to remember that what you see and do during the games is just as important as who you see it with and your attitude towards the moment. I'm sure there are going to be many lineups, missed events and agitated people, but it will all will be better if we can remember to act with kindness and appreciation for who we are with what we are going to be a part of.

Via the Herald
(Go Canada Go.)

Not what it seems

2010-01-29T11:30:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of masking appearances. When I say that I feel as if I am admitting to a horrible vice because masking appearances seems to hold such negative connotations. But deep down I don't think it is all that bad. Moreover, I believe that being honest about having layers of disguise is more honest than saying that one doesn't have any, because, let's be honest, we all have little secrets!

This week, on Design*Sponge, I saw two (here and here) wonderfully crafted masks, which I immediately feel in love with. Both are items that have been on the top of my brain as of recent and it seemed quite timely that I should stumble upon them now...

Via Design*Sponge and Hither and Thither

The first one is the BookBook sleeve from Twelve South. This computer sleeve looks like a vintage piece of literature, not an expensive laptop and is a lovely commentary on the evolution of visual communication. It's quite ironic that the definition of social status, source of all knowledge and highly regarded hard cover books of yesteryear, which were so carefully stored and revered are now being used as a disguise for today's truly sought after item, source of information, definition of social status, the MacBook. The suggestion that an 'old piece of literature' is a deterrent for thieves is probably making Shakespeare roll over in his grave and Steve Jobs break out in song. Needless to say, these merge old and new words quite perfectly in my mind and lend to a perfect masking of appearances, not to mention that they are beautifully crafted one of a kind items that I'm sure will spur many random discussions!

Via Design*Sponge and Hither and Thither

The second item is a DIY and expands on one of my most performed DIYs (this or something like it!). It's a hidden jewelry box which is perfect for me, with my adverse reaction to clutter, yet my desire to own more jewelry is a perfect merge. I think with this solution I can now have one of these in my room! Now to find the perfect frame and piece of art!

Via Design*Sponge

A quick follow up on my comment on loving masked appearances, what I really love the most about them is the slow unraveling of the truth, and the wonderful surprise once you find out what's below the mask! It's really that element of surprise that gets me every time! (I'm not a master of deception!)

Paper Bag It

2010-01-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Initially I didn't make any New Year's resolutions. I am pretty happy with things and didn't think I needed to change anything drastically. Since then, I realize I was on drugs and there is always room for improvement!

I have made two resolutions. To read more, and to pack a lunch.

Lunches require a bit of planning. I know that if I don't make a delicious lunch, it will be hard to motivate me to not go buy a wonderful freshly made sandwich. I have been looking around the office and taking notes of any trends from people who regularly bring their lunch, and this is what I have come up with.

Left overs - this is by far the most popular lunch. Most of which are a one bowl type meals such as stirfrys, and pastas or rice.
Assembling lunch at work - Especially with salads and sandwiches, people bring the ingredients but assemble them at lunch. This is great for me since I love tomatoes in my sandwiches, but can't handle soggy bread!
Toasting the bread in your sandwich. I love this idea! BLT here I come!

I'll start the year off with a great recipe that I learned from James, and which is sure to make great lunch leftovers! (I just tried this last night and it was a smash hit! It wasn't as good as James' but it was a great start, and sitting in my lunch bag as we speak!)

Via Goodlife.Eats

Roasted Vegetable Pasta

Roast at 400 degrees F for 40 minutes:
Zucchini
Red, green and yellow peppers
Tomatoes
Garlic
Onion
Mushrooms
Sun dried tomatoes in oil
Generous splash of oil from sun dried tomatoes

Cook pasta

With 10 minutes left add:
Spinach
Olives
Capers
Artichoke Hearts

When vegetables are done, mix pasta and vegetables.
Add fresh basil, and some white (or red or balsamic) vinegar.
Optional: add capers, Parmesan cheese and other fresh herbs (I used oregano)
Season with pepper (you probably won’t need salt because of the oil from the sun dried tomatoes.)

Via Fresh from the Oven

(I planned to take pictures of the miracle that is me cooking, but a- I was concentrating on the cooking too much and forgot and b- it really didn't look half as good as these ones I found here and here !)

2010 has begun?

2010-01-22T09:17:00.000-08:00

Wow, where have the past few months gone? My monthly to-dos, ten loves, easy eco Mondays and any resemblance to a post have completely gone by the wayside... My apologies for anyone who checks here on a somewhat regular basis.

I can't even tell you what I have been up to for the past little while. I would like to say that work has consumed my life, but that is really not a valid response since everyone is super busy with work, and its not like I have been working 80 hour weeks! So what has taken up my time? Well, I have pretty much gone activity wild, going skiing, and hiking and cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing and and biking and swimming whenever I've had a free moment. The weather this winter has been so nice (warm) and sunny (!!) that I couldn't bare to say no!

It all caught up with me in January when I feel ill with a nasty little cold that wouldn't go away. I am just now recovering from it, feeling my energy levels rebound ever so slowly!

Anyway, enough with the excuses, onto better, more exciting topics! The first one of 2010? New Years Resolution. To read more. I came across this list of 100 great books from the BBC. Apparently most people have only read 6 of the 100 books. I don't think I am much above that, so if I were to try and tackle this list, are there any book suggestions? (I've place an x next to the books I have read)

1. Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2. The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3. Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4. Harry Potter series - JK Rowling x (1/2)
5. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6. The Bible –
7. Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8. Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell x
9. His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10. Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11. Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12. Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13. Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14. Complete Works of Shakespeare
15. Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16. The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17. Birdsong - Sebastian Faulk
18. Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19. The Time Traveler’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger x
20. Middlemarch - George Eliot
21. Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22. The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23. Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24. War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25. The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
27. Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28. Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29. Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30. The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31. Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32. David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33. Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis x
34. Emma - Jane Austen
35. Persuasion - Jane Austen
36. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37. The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini x
38. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres x
39. Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden x
40. Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41. Animal Farm - George Orwell
42. The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown x
43. One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44. A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45. The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46. Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery xxxx
47. Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48. The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49. Lord of the Flies - William Golding x
50. Atonement - Ian McEwan x
51. Life of Pi - Yann Martel x
52. Dune - Frank Herbert
53. Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54. Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55. A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56. The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57. A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens
58. Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night - Mark Haddon x
60. Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61. Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62. Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63. The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64. The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65. Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66. On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67. Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68. Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding
69. Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70. Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71. Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72. Dracula - Bram Stoker
73. The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett x (I think I have...)
74. Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75. Ulysses - James Joyce
76. The Inferno - Dante
77. Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78. Germinal - Emile Zola
79. Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80. Possession - AS Byatt
81. A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82. Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83. The Color Purple - Alice Walker x
84. The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85. Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86. A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87. Charlotte’s Web - EB White
88. The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom x
89. Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90. The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91. Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92. The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93. The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94. Watership Down - Richard Adams
95. A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96. A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97. The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98. Hamlet - William Shakespeare x
99. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl x
100. Les Miserables - Victor Hugo

I've only read 18 (or possibly 16 and 1/2). I do have 4-5 books on my shelf from this list. I think I will start with those!

New Year's Resolution # 2 will come tomorrow!

Felicity

2009-12-03T08:08:00.000-08:00

What ever happened to Keri Russell? I know this is quite off topic, but I was browsing {this is glamorous} today and in the beautiful images was Keri Russell. I have always loved her effortless grace and the way she always looks comfortable and relaxed in what she is wearing. But really where has she gone? I miss not seeing those knitted sweaters, scarfs and turtlenecks which she sported so often on Felicity.

Well for those like me who are going through Russell with drawl, good news! She has a movie coming out on Christmas Day, "Leaves of Grass"(nice little Christmas gift pour moi!). The movie also features Edward Norton and Susan Sarandon, and sounds like a wonderful character movie...check out the trailer.

In the mean time here are some images of Keri Russell, in those cozy knits she wears so well!

Via InStyle Jan 09

Via {this is glamorous}

Via So that Happened

Not the cosy look, but stunning....
Via Fashion Week Daily

Out of Commission for a Bit

2009-11-30T22:15:00.000-08:00

I'll be back in a few weeks, just having a little difficulty looking at a computer screen at the moment!

10 loves

2009-11-24T13:50:00.000-08:00

Keeping in positive mantra mode, I am starting a new series.

I'm going to list ten things I love about certain spaces. And I am going to start with this one....

I can't find the source... anyone?

The shoes - of course! I like that they are all different sizes, but they are all the same style.
I love the storage use of the shoes - and that they are above sitting nose level!
The wooden pencils. Does anyone use these anymore? I have a few that I just love. The hexagonal shape, amazing.
The tin used as a vase for the tulips.
The matte black chair. I like that the chair angles are the same as the desk, but the black adds a contrast. I also love that it's matte. It really looks like it absorbs the light instead of being reflective and drawing too much attention.
The sliver box. A little bling, but with straight lines a classic touch.
The wallpaper, so out of Africa... Love the texture too.
The drawer handles, a throw back to school days when our teachers had desks like this... I always wanted to peek in those drawers but never dared!
The desk legs, at an angle, narrow and attached on the outside. Feels so deconstructed.
The greenery and flowers, bring some life to your workspace.

Wow, that was too much fun. I love lists!

Lost and Found

2009-11-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

Via J.Loek

When someone possesses that creative genius, you can see the clogs of creativity constantly turning, no matter where they are. My friend Steph Hung is one such someone, creating beautiful and fun wears from material I would just discard. Seeming basic items become pieces of art, an unnoticed skirt becomes beautiful detail on a clutch, a retro bed sheet becomes a duffel bag, a golf shirt becomes a sophisticated scarf, a T-shirt becomes a necklace. Her ability to take vintage clothing and fabric an re-stitch it into fashionable clothing and accessories, as she does for her Lost/Found Collection, just amazes me.

Via Lost/Found

Steph is thankfully sharing her re purposing and salvaging talents with Vancouver at two local shows, Make it Vancouver this weekend and Urban Artisan Craft Fair November 28th and 29th, and select pieces from her line have recently been picked up by dream! Non-Vancouverites can check out her online shop.

Via J.Loek

To see more of her talent, including wonderful styling, check out these images taken by J.Loek of her line. I am counting the minutes until I can head down to the CCC to check out what new creations she has come up with lately.

Via J.Loek

Orange

2009-11-16T11:27:00.000-08:00

I am trying to bring an accent colour into a bedroom I am decorating (for a guy) and I was stumped for a while. I always like to bring in bright accent colours but they were all looking too feminine. Orange to the rescue! Especially if paired with navy blue... What do you think?

I love orange and tan! Via Elements of Style and House and Home.

I think I am going to bring in the orange accent with pillows... Via House and Home photography by Michael Graydon.

I love these orange chairs! So fun!

I really like the giraffe in the back, a great contrast with the white walls (same as what I am working with!) Both via All things lovely.

I like the repetition of orange here, and the blue. I think I would add more blue though.... House Beautiful, ken fulk design, via On interiors.

November - To Do and Positive Mantra

2009-11-05T06:34:00.000-08:00

Lately I have found myself to be quite negative. When someone asks me how my weekend was I am always "Good, BUT..." I am not sure why this is, possibly because I am feeling unsettled, and without purpose, or I feel slightly overwhelmed, not grounded and out of my element... Whatever the reason is, I am going to have to kick this mentality, because I'm no Debbie Downer!

I have been trying to figure out how I would kick this negativity and stick to it, and this weekend I finally had a light bulb moment! I don't know how to fully explain it, but I just have to remind myself that I am free to choose what to do. I don't have to do anything, I want to do it! For example, this weekend I was bummed because I had to go the mall to return some items. But really I want the money back, so I want to do this item. I also am really bummed about studying, but I want to do well in my courses, so I want to study.

I can see her positive mantra glowing! Cleo Sullivan

So let's see if I did everything I wanted to do for October...

Sew some of the Roman Blinds - purchase doweling, top piece of wood and lining material. Cut and measure out all material - The lining material is sitting right in front of me!
Move bedroom wall art
Clean out room - documents, clothes and (gasp!) shoes - this was so hard, 3 bags later, my room looks a lot less cramped!
Move winter clothes up, store summer clothes
Keep up with course homework - it was a squeeze, but I managed.
Post 1 time a week - not quite once a week but I did post more than 4 times this month!

Can you believe it? I finally got a whole list done, I am currently in shock. Now that I have some momentum, here is my want to-dos for Movember:

Post once a week. Post some personal projects.
Buy a winter bike. I officially can't ride my summer bike anymore.

I hope this will be my new winter bike! Kona

Finish decorating Kevin's room. (and post pictures)
Make a complete set of study notes. Book exam.
Be on the ball with work. Make deadlines. (this one is going to be hard!)
Yoga twice a week - a class or a video.
Book vacation. (Yes that's right I'm going on a fun vacation in 2010! More details later!)

I might be getting ahead of myself because this list looks long! Note - the roman blinds are not on here. I might have given up on them.

Even though I am not attempting to make my roman blinds this month, I still have quite a bit of sewing to do... I'm nervous, I have never done a project this large! Lucyina Moodie via Automatism

I love Freda Loves Porter

2009-10-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

My cousin, Kelby, and a couple of her friends started making headbands this summer while in 'quarantine' due to H1N1. They most definitely found the silver lining to a bad situation... their headbands are a huge hit and are flying out of their hands! And I can see why, they are beautiful!

My cousin is the one on the right. Via FLP

Their company, Freda Loves Porter, has taken off, they even had an article in the Calgary Herald last weekend. I checked out the website to see what all of the buzz is about and now I understand! Check out their amazing creations!

All images via Freda Love Porter

I wish I lived in Calgary and could pop by one of their shows, because the website is all sold out! Maybe I'll call in a cousinly favour!!

Black on Black Leighway

2009-10-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

I recently had my hair dyed dark. Really dark. Some people call it black although it is most definitely a couple 'numbers' off black. It is a huge change for me, and I have been finding it challenging pairing this new colour with my wardrobe. I just don't feel like my steadfast black outfits look very good with my black hair. I even went out looking for a creme coloured winter jacket (something that I would never be able to keep clean long enough to wear more than once!) But today I stumbled upon this beautifully stunning lady who pulls off the dark hair and black clothes so wonderfully. I think I should try wearing those black staples again....

The Sartorialist via dress,design & decor

Both Via Miss a la Playa

Year Round Sunshine

2009-10-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

Love a little yellow in the bedroom to brighten up those rainy fall mornings.... (some of these images are old....)

Via Domino

Jason Martin

Via Domino

Via HGTV

Mel Yates via This is Glamorous

This bed is still my favorite frame to date! I love the painted detail!

Taking a page from the highline.

2009-10-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

I love the modern design used to incorporate green into the walkway. Via Highline Fliker Stream

I am totally behind on posting this. I first read about it in May (in Azure I believe) but with my posting hiatus I never ever finished the post (a trend I am sure you have seen around here!). But now I have been reminded again about the Highline from my good ol' Club Monaco standby.

What beautiful fall colours! Via Highline Fliker Stream

The highline is this wonderful mile and a half, recently completed (June 2009) park in Manhattan, where an old abandoned elevated rail line has been re purposed and redesigned into a public green space. This project was funded through a joint venture between the city and private donations. On top of amazingly designed walkways and landscape, there are movable art installations and shows (both theatrical and musical) that rotate through. School programs visit, it hosts block parties, public discussions and there has been a large number of proposals on the highline since it has opened! And everything is updated on their blog. This blog would most definitely be on my favourite list if I lived in Manhattan!

I would take my lunch break here! Photograph by Nikole Bouchard via Highline Blog

In Vancouver we have this abandoned railway track running through the west side of Vancouver, much like the Highline in west Manhattan, only not elevated (which creates more logistical problems). Parts of the rail line in Vancouver are lined with gardens but much of it is just overgrown grass. It would be great to see Vancouver take a hint from New York and re-develop.

What much of the abandoned rail line looks like in Vancouver... Via Our Fernie blog

Fear the Fall

2009-10-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

With the first snow on the local mountains behind us, I am really starting to get apprehensive about the colder weather coming through, I get this uneasy feeling in my stomach a lot like the one I get when I have just been caught... Do you get this feeling too? It's rather silly because it's still really warm here - we actually broke records on September 23rd (28 degrees!), and I am sure I have a few weeks of good weather left, but I just seem to know that over the horizon are wet, dark, cold months ahead... Why does fall make me feel this way?

It might be because I live in Canada and winter can last 8 months or more, or that the summer has been so great and I have been outside so much and doing all these different activities, that I can't imagine spending my days inside...

I love plaid flannel. I am looking forward to sporting some more of this... with slippers. Beauty. James Merrell

Before I plummet into winter blues, I thought I would list off some reasons why it might be nice to have winter.... I remember not too long ago saying that I am looking forward for some cooler weather so I could get some things done, and do some activities inside that I really enjoy and have been neglected while I was out frolicking in the sun.

Portland Mitchell via Sarah Kaye

Decorate Andrea's, James' and Kevin's rooms. I gave them some ideas (posted on here) a couple of months ago, but we haven't really made any advances
Skiing and snowshoeing - I can't forget to get out there and enjoy the winter weather
Science world, museum, movies, theater
Crafts! I have a million projects which I would love to finish, I am sure they will start popping up on my monthly to do lists!
Courses
Baths, and steams... to just relax the day away!
Cooking, warm cookies from the oven... what is better?
Long Coffees and reading the whole newspaper on Sunday mornings
Organizing - it might not sound fun, but it will feel so good!

A few things I am going to do to make sure I don't get chilled to the bone this winter

Looking forward to pulling on some gloves, and a chunky sweater, and even dressing it up! Via Club Monaco

- Turn the heat up in my apartment (just once in a while) wear a summer dress play summer music, dance and drink fun summer drinks!

- Sauna, hot tub - get that body temperature up!

- Pedicure - even though no one will probably see them, it would be really nice to have pretty feet once in a while

- Sweat - not just a regular sweat, but a boot camp type sweat.
- Tea - My splurge of the year - good tasty teas!
- Candles - lots and lots of candles, with a fire extinguisher very close.
- Public fireplaces - find my favourite cafe or restaurant with a fireplace and make myself a regular!

Via Elle Decor

Hope everyone else is keeping warm and looking forward to the up coming chilly months! What do you to shake the winter blues?

October - To Do

2009-10-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

There is snow on the peaks of the local mountains, and there are less than 50 days until ski season! Fall is really here... and so is a new month, and a new To-Do list. This month is very similar to last month since I didn't get everything done!

Via Moods of Vancouver

Organizational Tasks - 3 of them - already seeing the benefit of being a bit more organized!
Sew Dark Roman Blinds - these are so daunting to start. I think I am going to try and do it in small steps.
Sign up for courses - signed up and am currently taking 2 of them!
Move bedroom wall art - soon soon...

For October, I have high hopes, but I must be realistic, I'm going home for Thanksgiving on top of the two courses and one starting up soon. All of which doesn't lend itself to a lot of free time! No excuses though, this is the month for a completed list!

Sew some of the Roman Blinds - purchase doweling, top piece of wood and lining material. Cut and measure out all material
Move bedroom wall art
Clean out room - documents, clothes and (gasp!) shoes.
Move winter clothes up, store summer clothes
Keep up with course homework.
Post 1 time a week.

Ambitious, I know. See you in November is a many check marks!

Bent grains

2009-09-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

I love wood grains, clean lines and intresting angles. I also love magazines. How did they know?

Via svelteobjects on Etsy.

Summer Light

2009-09-01T05:54:00.000-07:00

It has been over a month since I last posted, and all summer since I have written anything substantial! It has been a busy and wonderful few months off I must admit. August has been full of vacation (more on that later!), one week back with friends in town visiting, and then off to the field with work, which is where I am now! July was all about Vancouver. The weather was absolutely amazing and I took full advantage of it! I fell in love with Vancouver all over again and explored so many new places (more on that as well!). Needless to say, it was a great summer... and now that fall is here, I can't help but wish I could go back and start summer all over again!

With summer still in my mind (as I sit in a rain/wind storm) I stumbled upon this image, which I am just loving! The light in this image reminds me of summer mornings... the time of day I relish the most!

Via a life's design

I read a little bit about this house and made me fall in love with the hole house, not just this room!

Beautifully located - bay side Maryland
Inspired by historical small structures that lined the shores of the Chesapeake Bay for the past centuries.

The front of the house... rather large! Via Southern Living

The back of the house- which faces the water is lined with windows and has multiple porches. I love the idea of multiple smaller areas, which makes things much cozier.

Via a life's design

August - To Do

2009-07-31T12:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts, I have been really busy but I can't seem to figure out what I have done! The sun has been out pretty constantly for the past month, so I haven't had much inside time... But I have been thinking of you, and all the beautiful things I would love to blog about.... if only I had time! Hopefully I will remember them when the ski clouds over and it rains for months on end!

Vancouver needs a breeze like this! via Oh Joy!

Anyway, back to my to do list... As mentioned, July has been a scorcher, especially the last two weeks, the heat slowed me down, and I didn't get to as many tasks as I would have like to... but that's okay, I'll just do them in August!

Contact old professor regarding portfolio (no longer need to do this - I have a different plan!)
Organizational tasks* - who really does these in the heat of the summer?
Purchase 2 staple work clothing items
Sew dark roman blinds for bedroom
Swim 10 times (Okay, I only swam 8 times...)

I'm taking holidays for two weeks in August, and then I am away with work until mid- September, so this list is going to be a joint August - September list:

Organizational Tasks - 3 of them
Sew Dark Roman Blinds
Sign up for courses
Move bedroom wall art

I'm cutting down on the number of things since my performance last month was quite dismal. I think that this one is doable...

I am looking forward to have time for tea during my vacation....

Styling by Ludyina Moodie via Automatism

Does anyone else have summer vacation plans? I hope they are relaxing and rejuvenating! xo

Guest Room Inspiration

2009-07-03T06:57:00.000-07:00

This image from Remodelista has given me inspiration for a guestroom, that is, when I have a house with a guestroom!I love the way the bed is not made and set up almost institutionally. Such a juxtaposition from the traditional guestroom decor. It reminds me of the first day of summer camp when you run into your cabin to find the best bed! I also love it because I hate making beds and I always feel guilty as I am tearing out the beautifully made linens when staying with friends. This one found on Emma's Design Blog is also inspiring. I love the pile of magazines as a side table and the shelf!

Photography by Annika Vannerus

These both work so well because I am sure that when I have a guestroom, it will me a multifunctional room, and these simple beds will allow me to switch the room from craft space to guest space with ease!

July - To dos

2009-07-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired to follow in Alek's footsteps and make monthly lists. We'll see how long this will last!) See, I make them anyway, but I would like to post them so that I feel that I have to be accountable. I am also going to take her advice and make my lists manageable (this is going to be the hardest part). So I have narrowed down my huge to do list and have picked out the most important ones.

Contact old professor regarding portfolio
Organizational tasks*
Purchase 2 staple work clothing items
Sew dark roman blinds for bedroom
Swim 10 times

* Organizational Tasks consists of activities way too boring to mention here!

I'll let you know how this month goes! It might be difficult if we get a lot of....

Rachel Vigor via Desire to Inspire

I'm an escapest

2009-06-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's Friday night. Yes, I'm at home. I decided to stay at home tonight to get a bit of my very long list of things done... Instead, I have found myself browsing blogs! My bags are still lying at the door, my shoes are a couple of feet beyond that and I am on the couch engrossed in reading blogs. I have escaped real life again. Do you ever need time to escape? How do you escape after a long day? Here is what I have found to help me forget that I have a list a mile long to complete this weekend!...

My parents were just in Portland, and from their tales, I am just dying to go! This blog won't help either! (via cup of jo)

What a beautiful spring bed cover?

By Vera Neumann via Design Sponge

This place took my breath away, everything else just seems so bland compared to this...

This place even displays the bike beautifully! (I have been trying to find a place to store my bike where it would look good... so difficult!)

Well maybe not these shoes.

Okay, those shoes did it. I am motivated to attack my to do list! Have a great weekend!

Sweet Dreams Andrea!

2009-06-23T13:07:00.000-07:00

My dear friend who's boyfriend I posted about just below is also trying to decorate her room. Andrea is an amazingly adventurous and has traveled extensively. She has Italian heritage, but also embraces the Spanish culture, speaking the language and dancing the dance (salsa). Her pastimes include cooking, yoga and being outdoors. For her room I want to incorporate many of these themes into her room, especially her travels to Turkey, yoga, and bright Spanish flair! Here is what I have come up with.....

Some ethnic elements....

Ara via Desire to Inspire

Elle Decor via Coco & Kelley

Some interesting ways to show art... they also inject some lovely colour! I love the decorative frames, which are feminine and add visual interest!

Photography by Damian Russell via Desire To Inspire

This one might be a little much, especially for a bedroom, but I wanted to illustrate how mixing and matching frames and mats can really add an eclectic, romantic flare! (I am sure James will not like this room, but Andrea just might like some elements!)

Elle Decor via Coco & Kelley

Since Andrea has a cream bedspread, we can bring in the colour with pillows and a other fabric.

Via Desire to Inspire

Via Sfgirlbybay

Appeasing to the yogi in Andrea, and the green thumb, I would love to have a Buddha in the room, and some plants. A plant in front of her window might be the perfect way to diffuse the light and street noise!

Via Desire to Inspire

I do have a question for Andrea though, are you more romantic....

Via Coco & Kelley

Or bold?

Via Desire to Inspire

Over a Year

2009-06-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

So the one year anniversary of my blog came and went and I totally forgot! I guess that is one of the pitfalls of only occasionally blogging. I wish I had something profound to say about the last year of blogging, but it's Monday morning and well, I haven't been blogging lately. One thing I will say is that this experience in expressing myself and the connections I have made with fellow bloggers has opened up a whole new world, and awaken part of my persona which I had neglected for a very long time.

Via Sfgirlbybay

While the blog posts have dropped off, my love, admiration and inspiration for design, art and lovely things has not. I look forward to a day where my posts will pick up again and I can once again share all the thoughts and ideas streaming through my head!

Looking forward to another year of inspiration. xo

What I was thinking then... In mourning

2009-06-05T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have been really busy lately, hence the lack of posts.... But it doesn't mean that I haven't been writing... I do, but then something takes me away and I never finish the post. And then the post information becomes irrelevant and I feel like I can't post it any longer. Well, I have decided that I want to post these, even if what I am talking about is long past gone! So here is the first in a series if "What I was thinking then...." I'll write the date I intended to post these to give some context.

May 20th 2009

On the way home from visiting with a friend tonight, I heard that Arthur Erickson has passed away... Some of my first blog posts were on his work, and I always love when I walk by his buildings in this city. I dreamed of one day meeting him, either at an event, or just passing him on the street. I am so sad, not only because I will never be able to meet him, but because a part of Vancouver (namely Vancouverism architecture) has passed away along with Mr Erickson. I hope that those who work with his firm still push his vision forward, but I wonder, where their designs will go now that their founder, and visionary is gone...

Arthur Erickson was a Vancouver, B.C. native. He studied at UBC and McGill, and did work all over the world, but he also came back and in my opinion changed the face of the Vancouver skyline. Many people recognize Arthur Erickson's work only by the concrete that he used, and many people don't like his designs that much, so I thought I would show some of his work without concrete - I love these ones because they meld so well into the natural landscape, really making the view and nature the focal point. Aurthur Erickson's ability to design with the natural environment as the primary focus is what he should be known for, because he pushed that concept to knew heights... literally!

I hope that Arthur Erickson is smiling down at this beautiful day and is proud of the way he has shaped his home town.... and many of the homes in his town.

All of the images are from Arthur Ericskson's website. When I think of a Vancouver house, these are what I think of.... His lines are so impeccable!

For the love of a good place to sleep.

2009-05-28T13:31:00.001-07:00

James, my friend Andrea's boyfriend, moved into an apartment last month and is looking to make it feel homey on a budget. He had me over to show me around his new pad and describe what he wanted. I don't have any pictures of what it looks like, but will take some this weekend and then post them... In the mean time I am going to post some inspirational rooms to see what he is feeling. I am really excited to hear what James has to say with my suggestions!

For the bedroom James has this great blue duvet cover which I wanted to work with to create a beachy (yet slightly northwest) feel...

Let's start off with some inspiration...

Warm summer bonfires near the beach....

Via Elements of Style

With a dash of tropical....

Via Sfgirlbybay

And making sure that water is the focus....

Photography by Cody Pickens via Sfgirlbybay

Bringing this all into a room....

I don't know where I got this photo from! Does anybody know?
(I just love the waves print... it inspires so much openness... I also love the use of the earth tan colours, they warm up the cool blue but maybe it will need to be a bit more masculine, like this next one...)

Via Elements of Style
(James look at the drift wood mantle... I love it! I also like the brown, and tans and wicker...)

Via Elements of Style
(Or this one, with more blue....)

Via Coco and Kelley

I really like these muted blue colours, I think if we bring in a darker blue it would really add depth to the space....

And, just randomly - an idea for your hat... get a whole bunch of them and hang them in a corner, adds some wonderful texture to the light walls, is totally beachy, and super cheap!

Via Elements of Style

So what do you all think? Would you let me take your bedroom to the beach?

Beachy Bag

2009-05-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm heading to the beach the long weekend.... I am hoping for warm weather, sun and lots of relaxing! If I was stylish, this is how I would carry my surf board....

Via Elements of Style (check Erin's beach style - she has some great posts!)

And wouldn't it be lovely to carry your beach wears in this?

From India Rose (love!) via Simple Song

May Flowers

2009-05-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

It has been too long since I last posted! This intermittent posting has become non existent! Unfortunately I think it is going to be this way for the next two months. I am just swamped, but loving it!

Here in Vancouver May so far has brought some showers over flowers.... but that is fine with me. As I am sure you know I don't love flowers... I am much more of a greenery person....

I have had this photograph by Adrian Briscoe stored away for a while, probably since the first month I started blogging! I just love how the green adds that punch (especially the plant in the foreground) but it still keeps the area cosy and earthy.... two ambiances I love!

I think May Flowers have been seeping into my bones though, lately I have been toying with the idea of buying some flowers for my room.... If I could I would buy these hydrangeas and put them in this stunning vase - or maybe a sterling silver one....

Photography by John Bessle

Do you have flowers in your bedroom? If so what flowers do you have?

(Speaking of bedrooms - Once these two months of craziness pass I hope to show you a few photos from my room... I am oh so slowly decorating it, and I would love to have some input! )

Bright Metal

2009-04-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

I am in love with these stairs by Product and Design Metalwork which I found over at Remodelista. I love the way they have a solid and heavy presence, but allow the light to come through so nicely. The clean simple lines, with the interesting triangular detail on the bottom add some really neat interest! Does my love for these stairs make me a modernist?

Wrap me up and loop me around....

2009-04-22T09:08:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot about my love for afghan's until I came across this post.....

All images via Smosch

My great-grandmother used to make afghans, so we have a few back at my parents home. They are all made with a black background, and until I saw this one, I thought that was the only way, but I love the white, it is so fresh! Oh, I wish I had an afghan of my own - I love looping the knots over my fingers and toes when I curl up on the sofa. These blankets got me through a lot of sick days...

The talented Sandra from Smosch recently finished hers (as seen in the images). I would love to be able to do this one day.... I wonder how much time it took...

Misc Items...

2009-04-17T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love minimal clean design.... but I just can't seem to make it work in my life! I live in a relatively small apartment with a roommate, so the only real space that I have to myself is my bedroom. I have some storage, and try to organize all of my stuff so that it fits within the confines of the storage but I always seem to have extra things popping up here and there and creating a clutter! For example, I have a birthday present that I am waiting to give someone, all wrapped up, my gloves, which I don't have to wear everyday but still need some mornings, an inspiration board that I need to cover with fabric, spray paint cans that I have to return to the depot, some magazines that I use for ideas every now and again, pens and pencils, mail that I need to deal with, my pile of bags, I take a different one to work almost every day, pillow covers that need to be sewn, the list could go on and on and on.

Oh and I forgot about the constant pile of clothes that need attention! This one looks good though! Via Dwell

I clean everything up, but it all way, and then I turn around and it is all back like this! Via Dwell

What should I do? What do you do? It is getting to the point where it is keeping me up at night. Last night for instance, I had to get up and clean my whole room because I was feeling like I was sinking into a pit walled with clutter. (I think I have a clutter fear!)

My pit walled with clutter.... Via Apartment Therapy

My only solution is setting up an entrance area (if my roommate is cool with it) where we can put our miscellaneous items... Or is that just diverting the clutter? Should I just give up on many of these projects and throw the items away? I don't know what to do... I think it is time for a good spring clean.

West Elm makes it look so easy to be organized! Via West Elm

What do you think? Do you have the same problem? Is your home bursting at the seams with stuff?....

I wish I had an extra room to store all of my unfinished projects! Unfortunately they have to reside in the same room that I do! via Doorsixteen

The End of Regular Posting

2009-04-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

I love blogging. I also love the blogging community, the inspiration, positive comments and open and honest sharing of ideas and thoughts. I love reading other people's posts and being inspired. I'm always so excited to post something and see if anyone will comment. The interaction through comments is so fulfilling. I spend a lot of joyous hours thinking of new ways to convey ideas and articulate my opinions. The act of blogging has helped me figure out a lot about myself and how I want to express myself in this world.

Right now however, I need to concentrate on my local community, finding and sharing inspiration with people around me. I am at a bit of a cross-roads where I need to concentrate on my current state, and figure out what I am going to do.... I need take the time to research and MAKE my next step. I have been avoiding making decisions and taking action in my real life by diving into the blogging world. It is much easier for me to take a risk in my blog content then in my career or personal life. I wish I could juggle both and put the thought and time into both, but I am not that good of a multi-tasker.

Honeybee Design on Etsy

So I say good bye to regular posting. I hope this will be more of a see you later, rather than a farewell. I will still be posting at random and of course reading all your lovely posts from time to time. I will miss your daily inspiration so much....

Until the next time..... xo

Lux for the day

2009-04-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

Do you have those days where you want to throw all your frugal thoughts and sensible money management out the window and just be extravagant? Today is one of those days. To make sure I don't break the bank, I have securely locked my credit card away, and I am not approaching any stores, not even the grocery store (its very possible that I would come out of there with a 40 dollar cheese!).

But a girl must treat herself once in a while, right? I'll image indulge today....

Today I am going to take the day off work and stay in this hotel room. I'll take the time to read near the fireplace, write some thank you notes on my custom stationary, order room service, have a team of professionals turn my room into a private spa... if I am not too worn out I'll get all dressed up for some cocktails down in the lobby bar, before retiring to my plush bed....

Images via La Dolce Vita of the Lancaster Suite at Blueberry Farms

If the day did wear me out too much then I will opt for this lovely bath, watching a wonderfully overindulgent movie and sipping on Champagne by candle light...

Image via Living Etc...

Ah, so lovely and restful. Thanks for coming along on my dream Luxury day!

Ready To Wear Folds

2009-04-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

Remember my Origami post a couple weeks ago? Well I have found some lovely ready to wear pieces from Banana Republic's Monogram line! I just love how they have incorporated layers and folds to add detail.
I love this oversized jacket collar with folds radiating from the neck, it draws your attention to the face, which is always a great thing!

How ideal are these folds? While it is a bit too Christmas party of me with those colours, I love the bow like folding detail at the neck line, and the folds in the skirt, they complement each other so well!

The next time I'm going shopping, I know what I am going to be looking for!

Raw Onions and Sweets

2009-03-31T15:34:00.000-07:00

I normally try to avoid raw onions. I find them overpowering, like an over sized patterned sofa in a small room. They also leave you with bad breath and a poor aftertaste. But today I had some at lunch. And following lunch, I had the strongest craving for something sweet... like candy sweet. My theory is that in order to mask the horrible bitter aftertaste of raw onion, my body craved something sweet. Something with strong enough flavour to allow me to speak freely in close proximity to others, to be able to yawn without worry, and laugh without turning away.........

Have you noticed the same thing? Do you regularly crave sweets after a meal with raw onions?

I would like to postulate that raw onions are making me fat!

Both via Flickr: Here and here

Katie's Pad Part 2

2009-03-31T06:57:00.000-07:00

A long while ago, my dear friend Katie was looking for a coffee table, while I was back at home we went out and scoured all day and didn't find anything! Later I hit the Internet and did some research - found several options and posted them. While searching I came across some other great items for her wonderful new apartment. So as I start to prepare for my Easter trip back home, I reminded my self of these wonderful pieces I have saved to show my dear Katie! Here ya go hun!

If you still want a desk in front of your window, these ones are great and could be used as dinning room tables too!

These ones are small and would be great in the corner where the bookshelf are! And look at all of the storage!!

This table might be a hall/sofa table but it reminds me of the one that we saw at Sojourn. It would look awesome in front of the window and can double function as a buffet...

...as well as be narrow enough to allow for another sitting chair, such as the lovely one below this table! (this might not be the ideal colour, but the shape is awesome! It would be a great height to pull up to the coffee table too!)

If you don't think you have enough room for the chair above, these ones would be good options, they could double function as desk chairs, dinning chairs or a family room chair for extra guests!

If you are leaning towards the bench with storage option for the window, here are some of my favourites!

Don't forget some storage! I love those square ottomans, although I also really like the ones we saw in leather!

And last but not least, side tables! I love this one, I think it is a night stand, but I love the simple design and all the storage.

And to add some texture and keep it casual and welcoming, these versatile floor cushions! They would be great to pull out when sitting around the coffee table eating or playing games! Scrabble battle! (you can also use them as foot rests!)

Here is the one catch: To achieve this look, we are going to have to go on a road trip to the States and visit a West Elm, since everything is from there (yes I am a bit obsessed!). So what do you think Katie? Anything that you like? What about everyone else? Any items that you love or could see in your place?

Spell it out

2009-03-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

Via Marie Claire Maison

I love the random display of letters. I don't especially love when words are written out, but random letters mixed in with a wall collage are great, slightly unexpected, and have the ability to be very clever and just plain old fun.

Via Design*Sponge

Via Creature Comforts

Via Apartment #34

Via Design*Sponge

Until now I haven't found many As... but this one is perfect, a glimmering light of hope... and so cute!

Via Perch Design Via Design*Sponge

Easy Eco Mondays - Take Out

2009-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

The best thing about living in Vancouver is that around every corner is a great restaurant! I love exploring different places and finding some good 'regulars'. My main vice is sushi, I could eat it morning, noon and night, and after a good swim, it is almost impossible to resist!

The other weekend, on the way home from skiing we all had a sushi craving, and before I could think twice, the food was ordered and we were making a detour to go pick it up! We picked up food for 5, took it home, divided it up and devoured the tasty bites! But when it was all said and done, there was a large mound of plastic sitting on the table. I felt gross, which might have been compounded from eating way too quickly, but the sight of all the containers was not that pleasing either!

Via Flickr

So what to do? I love my take out and I don't know what life would be like without it, but the waste (i.e. Styrofoam) that goes into every meal, is making me feel guilty. Are there any options? Can I have my take out and be green too?

I don't have much to offer in terms of solutions, maybe someone else has some insight?

The only solutions I can ponder up are:

1) Eat less take out, or eat in the restaurant.

2) See if you can bring Tupperware to the restaurant and transfer the food from a plate to your container. I believe there are some health issues with this, and many restaurants are not okay with this, but if you know the employees really well, there might be a way that this method could work.

3) Re-use the containers. My sushi container is usually (licked) clean when I am done with it, so why not pack my lunch sandwich in it? Or make it into a planter, as seen here...

4) Encourage your favourite restaurant to use biodegradable take out containers. Its been done here, here and here, however they have their limitations

Do you eat take out? Have you found a solution for the packaging? Any suggestions for my sushi take out dilemma?

Keep it going....

2009-03-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

I have what feels like a million obligations and plans this weekend, and I am crossing my fingers that my timing works out so that I can get them all done and not disappoint anyone! (Which rarely happens! I am notoriously late, and always foul up best laid plans!)

Via Sfgirlbybay

Do you ever have weekends where you have these commitments, and you would normally want to do them, but since they are all occurring at the same time, you kind of feel like just blowing them all off? I wish my plans would plan to spread themselves out so that each weekend would be scattered with a few fun events, instead of having one weekend being chalker block full of things and the next be empty!

Via Apartment #34 and La Mia Vita

I wonder if I will ever find the balance (or the will to say no) so that I don't feel rushed and stressed over seeing people. This hurried state doesn't lend itself to a relaxing weekend, or very good conversations! I always feel like I am looking at the clock and my mind is planning how to get to the future events (or what is happening at the ones I am missing) instead of being in the moment. How do you find balance? Do you say no to events, and do you feel guilty?

Via Coco & Kelley

So this weekend I am going to try and not over think things, or worry that my plan is flawed and that there are oversights! I am going to try and just stay calm, not worry about the future and enjoy myself... I'll let you know how it goes on Monday!

Buenos Aires street style

2009-03-26T14:57:00.000-07:00

The sun is trying to peek through the clouds today, I have been aching for when the wet weather is gone and I can start to wear outfits like these! Buenos Aires women have such great style! I remember traveling through there and feeling so frumpy! My khaki pants, MEC pull overs, and hiking boots just weren't cutting it!

I wish I lived in the southern hemisphere in the winter months....

Images via Elle

The last two are by far my favourite! I love the beach feel of the yellow dress! So would you follow the summer around the world if you could?

(My friend is currently doing so - he went down to Australia during this winter, and is thinking of coming back just in time for summer to start here! Ahh the life!)

Ada Lovelace Day

2009-03-25T12:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Ada Lovelace Day, a day for bloggers everywhere to draw attention to women in technology... Well I am one day late, but I have been dying to post about this wonderful little lady for a while and it just seems fitting!

You may not have heard of Emily Cummins, but she's famous, seriously, check it out here here here here and here... She is an inventor, or as she likes to call herself a sustainable designer. She has been winning awards for her inventions and designs since before she was 16! Since then she has won awards such as Future 100 Award (2008), Female Innovator of the Year (2007), Technology Women Of The Future (2006) and she is only 22 years old!

Via InHabitat

The invention that caught my eye is her solar powered fridge, which actually uses no electricity. This isn't your everyday refrigerator with solar panels on it... This invention is completely different. My explanation won't be able to do it justice so read about it from the inventor herself here, or from writers here and here. Inspirational isn't it?

I wonder what Emily will invent next!

C'est la fin.

2009-03-23T15:07:00.000-07:00

Last week I had to run out early without a wrap up of French week! Not to worry, I will wrap it up here today.

So, other than my blog posts, what did I do to make last week so french? Well, I spoke french with myself as well as with a high school friend, listened to the CBC french music radio station on 90.9 (although I only understood 1 out of 3 words), and I tried to add some flair to my outfits! Very small steps... But I have been inspired to wear more heals, and dust off a french book I have on my shelves!

So for my final post, I want to be able imagining myself living in France. In a cute apartment with Parisian flare but with modern touches too.... Where to the French really live?...well, I think I have found the perfect place.... come on in!

This lovely Parisian apartment is that of Marieke Berghuis as it was featured on Design*Sponge

So I would like to send you off with some profound, life altering thought on French Design and Style, however with my Monday mind I can only relate it back to what first inspired me to go on this week long look at France... The language... ready? Here is is my huge insight...

French Style is a lot the French language, its all about the accents!

Don't you agree?

La Mode du Rue

2009-03-19T10:56:00.000-07:00

There is an underlying sense of sophistication in french style. I believe it is an inherent skill that all french women possess. When they sport a piece that is funky, bright, or different, they always manage to ground it and keep the look cohesive, sophisticated, and finished. More often than not they use black as their anchor, and in just the right amounts.

Via Garance Dore

Via Garance Dore

Via Facehunter

French women have also mastered the use of textures. Layering keeps the ensembles interesting and adds a supple, luxurious element.

Via The Sartorialist

Via Garance Dore

I try to avoid wearing all black for fear of the drab factor, but these lovely ladies layer it on and come out looking fresh, not like a goth in training!

Via French Elle

Via Garance Dore

Via Facehunter

Most importantly, french women have a confidence about them - like they know some funny secret and are always ready to flirt!

Via Facehunter

Via French Elle

I mustn't forget...Shoes!! They are never an afterthought... and heals are always welcome!

Via Garance Dore

Sigh, if I only was taught how to dress french instead of the pass tense conjugation of an irregular verb....

What do you think french style is?

Paris avec mon appareil photographique

2009-03-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

What a better place to walk around aimlessly with a camera? These ones are stunning!

Via Flickr

Via IgoUgo

Via Flickr

If you don't want to get lost in the beautiful city, check out these guides!

From the Guide Book Time Out, a comprehensive overview of the city.
The writers of USA Today give you their opinion of what to do in Paris, with some original options!
The wonderful Design Guide from Design*Sponge full of suggestions from all Paris Roundup contributors (see the roundup here, here, here and here)
Or check out some wonderful blogs such as Peter's Paris (via synch-ro-nizing)or this one, or the most aptly named The Paris Blog

A-Musee Bien en Paris

2009-03-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

France and Museums are synonymous. With a society and culture rooted in a long and storied past, having a wide variety of museums only seems fitting. Wonderfully, the buildings in which house these collections are in themselves masterpieces. Masterpieces that can be photographed and enjoyed for free! I could spend a whole day just admiring the detail on the outside...

Louvre

Via Of French

Via Photo Everywhere

Musee D'Orsay

Via Here

Musee Rodin
Via Travel Photo

France, je t'aime

2009-03-16T06:09:00.000-07:00

I love the french language. This is a new realization, which is odd considering I was in french immersion through my entire grade school education. It was the first language I learned how to spell! A couple of weeks ago I tried to speak french, and when it didn't come easily I realized that I have lost so much of it! I couldn't believe it, I was upset, disappointed and especially sad. So, this week I am going to try to practice my french... and while I do, I thought I would explore everything beautiful that is associated with being francaise! Come along with me and explore the fine culture and beauty of France. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel and the North Sea... lets soak it in!

This the the National Emblem, designed in 2007 by Jerome Blume.

To start off the week, here are some beautiful Parisian bedrooms... wouldn't it be lovely to wake up in one of these beds? I think I would wear high heels and dresses everyday if I lived in this room, but then again, I would also speak french everyday! Bien, j'ai besoin de commencer a pratiquer!

Via this is Glamorous

Marie Claire Maison via a la parisienne

Airspace Via Paris Apartment

Keep on browsing...

2009-03-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

I'm going to spend this weekend trying to make up for daylight savings, which means no late sleep in mornings for me... so, while my roommate sleeps, I thought I would enjoy some morning sun catching up on some reading, blog and non blog related! If you are doing some browsing too, here are a few I thought were interesting...

Via Design Crisis

Something to think about during our busy and stressful days... (from Mimi Charmante
A little Van recognition, and some beautiful water scapes over at Design Crisis by guest poster Designer's Brew.
Remember when I kept on seeing globes around? (here and here and earlier today) Well they haven't gone away, they have only become more interesting... as seen on Door Sixteen...
Check out the painting going on at Apartment #412, Etc... it seems like she has managed to paint her whole place overnight! Maybe a little incentive to get me started on a few projects I have in waiting....
A cool new application from Design for Mankind, which was featured on Sfgirlbybay...
Here's something to get you ready for spring - flats from I'll Seen, I'll Said
And last but not least, take a moment to imagine your life in another city, like La Dolce Vida did!

Wish I could be browsing from here....via Wind Lost

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend and take some time to browse!

Crafty Globe

2009-03-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Do you remember back in January when I kept on seeing beautiful globe lights around and wondered if I should replace my bedroom light with one of them instead of a chandelier? Well, I am still convinced that I want a chandelier, but I still think they are amazingly beautiful! Maybe my dining room needs a new light?

From Bobo Intriguing Objects

These ones used to be old wine spheres.... I love the slightly charcoal tint in the glass and the flat bottoms. I imagine their unusual shape will make for some great light reflections!

Origami Folds

2009-03-12T06:12:00.000-07:00

I used to love folding those paper cranes, so you can imagine how excited I was when I started seeing neat little folds and paperesque angles pop up on the red carpet, the catwalk and in home design. The designs these days are so much more sophisticated than those little cranes I used to fold up in my school days!

Yuko Nishimura via Origami Blog

I love the way that origami folds can create detail without additional products such as gems, embroidery, patterns or beads. Linked together, the folds can either focus your eye up towards the face such as seen on Cameron Diaz, elongate your silhouette as seen with Angelina Jolie or make you look all wrapped up like Marisa Tomei!

Via The Glam Guide

Via Origami Blog

I just have to add more to my love of how Angelina's dress uses two colours to add a pop and an element of 3D to her dress. It literally looks like it has been folded around her, and if she were to take it off, the whole inside of the dress would be yellow. Speaking of yellow - I love this origami inspired folded dress by Proenza Schouler.

Via the Origami Blog

Christian Dior Via Instyle

Collage via Origami Blog

The folds and angles are also finding their way into home decor. From pillows to beds!

PJ Pocket Pillow by Modern Twist via Apartment Therapy

Thomas Feichtner via Design Milk

Oh and I can't forget about how BIG of a statement those folded edges can make. Thanks Hedi!

Via This is London

I'm off to find my old origami book and make some folds.... If you want any more inspiration I suggest checking out Origami Blog, they are a great resource (as you can see from my credits!) and are totally dedicated to bring you everything folded, pleated and bent!

Bathe

2009-03-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

An Arctic air mass blew in yesterday, while being beautifully sunny, it is also freezing! It would be a perfect day to take a bath in one of these.... Cozy warm water, yet with a view of the beautiful blue skies!

Attic bathroom? I love how they managed to put the little window in front of the bath... So cute!

Via Black Eiffel

I could just imagine this house being on a hill, where you could hunker down in this tub and storm watch... the sound of rain hitting the glass and the distorted view through the water flowing down the panes, such a great contrast to the warm calm waters of the bath!

Via Bo Bedre

These sophisticated dark bathrooms inspire so much contrast and you can't help but be drawn to the light outside... especially if it's a bright day. I love dark bathrooms.

Via Domino

The French do it so well....

Via Marie Claire Maison

A shower and a bath? And a bath in black? I think I have died and gone to heaven!

Via Desire to Inspire

Cottage baths? Can it get any more relaxing?

Via Designers Brew - formally The Nerdy Fashionista

Modern and sleek, looking out into your garden oasis. I hope your neighbours don't peep over the fence!

via A Life's Design

Rustic yet crisp. I love the ceiling, the tons of light keep it nice and airy.

S. Russell Groves via A Life's Design

Aren't these two little kids just the cutest?

From Asberg Interior and Design

Tuesday Bluesday

2009-03-10T11:42:00.001-07:00

A little blue for this blah Tuesday.

I love this picture... it almost always makes me happy. Hopefully I can look at it long enough today to lighten my spirits.

Via Domino

I feel like these branches today, totally off kilter. I don't know whether to try and straighten up or allow myself to completely fall over. I don't think I will know for a while. I can only hope I look half as good as these branches as I teeter....

Kate French

Easy Eco Mondays - Bus Passes

2009-03-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

If you don't already have a bus pass can I suggest trying one out for a month? I just bought one March 1st and I have already used it way more than I expected to. I am almost giddy when I can hop on the back of the bus and don't have to wait in line at the front to stuff my change into that little money slot and ask for a transfer. I feel like I have just been accepted into this secret mass transit society, I just wish we all had a secret hand shake!

Argentinian Bus Tickets via Black Pearl Press

So join the club and see how many different ways you can hop on the back of the bus!

Island Bound

2009-03-06T08:52:00.001-08:00

Empress hotel via Victoria Travel Guide

So I'm off for a little trip this weekend. Nothing too crazy, just a quick little ferry ride across the Straight of Georgia. I have some friends across the waters and I have been way over due for a visit! Despite passing through Victoria several times, I have never really taken a weekend to go be a tourist. There are three uber touristy things I want to do this weekend: Have tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, browse Chinatown, and rent scooters! Does anyone have any other suggestions?

by Photographe du rue

I'm looking forward to it all, lets hope that this glorious weather holds up for the weekend!

Layer on Pink

2009-03-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

I'm posting about pink again! Well it seems like I have developed a little hankering for it! I do love this rich plum version of the bubblegum favourite! (I'm sure that colour experts are reeling at my comparison!)

I feel that it is alright for me to like this pink - it is so rich but not overbearingly bright and it doesn't scream barbie doll corvette! I love how this colour adds some flair to the rooms without overpowering the space. I am drawn to the depth and warmth evoked in these rooms. I think this strong rich colour as the backdrop helps the layers of textures and shapes (see mantle below and shelves above) appear to be more cohesive and look less cluttered. I could spend hours looking at all the details in these two images. Okay - I'll list a few that have caught my eye!

Kitchen: garlands, the old signs and tins, the wall mounted spices - round containers, put together in a square shape - love that geometry

Living Room: Wood set of 4 drawers, the ottoman, the l-o-v-e letters on the top shelf, the candle holder/angel in front of the fire place.

This room is inspiring - see I'm a closet pack rat, I am so worried that one day I am going to be buried by all my 'stuff' but India shows that you can have a lot of stuff, display it (which is what I like to do) and still have a house that looks beautiful! How I wish I could make all of my 'stuff' look this good!
We all know that I love black, but it can be very bold, stark and formal. This lovely pink pattern sooths the otherwise stark wall and ties in well with the pink on the bed. Just imagine how formal this room would feel if the pink stencils weren't applied to the wall! I also love the way the bed just pops out of the room, as it contrasts with the furniture and wall.

What a poetic way to wrap a pot! Random - just like I feel this post is!

All images of India Knight's Victorian home from Living Etc.

Mental Replacement

2009-03-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

I'm inspired by this mantra these days.

Via Daydream Lily

How wonderfully liberating?

Second time charm

2009-03-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

I posted about my new years resolution to dress up a little more, which had me looking (untimely) at different accessories and jewellery including cocktail rings. While buying a real cocktail ring dripping with jewels is probably not going to happen in my lifetime, I always like to look! However this time I have found a frugal and unique alternative. Vintage rings.

I love the pearls in this one. It is classic. The blue adds a punch of colour and keeps it fresh! From Capricious Traveler's Etsy shop

Wow, this ring demands attention! I love the contrast between the red and the blue! Found on cuestaray's Flickr

First of all - I love the grey nail polish! I also love how shinny the ring is and the deep purplish black. Photography by Brittanie Shey, found on flickr

Easy Eco Mondays - Give Plants with Roots

2009-03-02T21:21:00.000-08:00

A lot of lucky ladies (and some men) received bouquets of flowers this February...an estimated 180 million stems of roses. Stunning when first received, as the week progresses, they will start to droop and wilt. If you take very good care of your cut flowers, change the water every other day, keep the stems cut and give them flower food, they can last up to 2 weeks. But in the life cycle (seed, growth, transport, your counter) two weeks is a short period.

So are there alternatives? Well there were some great posts on paper flowers (although at the moment I can only find one!), but if fake isn't really your thing, you might want to think about potted plants. Now I must admit this is coming from a bias source, I think we have over 20 plants in our apartment! Don't get me wrong, I don't have a huge green thumb (I am extremely efficient at killing plants - I think we are down a handful since moving in 6 months ago.) but I do love the warmth and colour plants bring to a space!

So what to buy? Well there are many potted plants that flower and can be found at your local grocer, however they tend to flower once and then slowly die off. This process does take longer than 2 weeks so they are a step above cut flowers. Another step above would be a potted plant that flowers annually, or one that doesn't flower. These last for as long as the recipient can take care of them for. Cacti and arid environment plants do the best if you suspect that your loved one won't water them very well, while ones that love shade are good for indoor spaces that don't have direct light. Usually your local florist will tell you what would work best for each situation and what plants work best for where you live.

All these inspiring images are from the talented Katja at Nestled In her plant photos inspire me to work on my non green thumb!

Is it Monday already?

2009-03-02T13:47:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Monday is here! That weekend whirled by! I didn't have a chance to write any posts!
So until I catch up, let me leave you with two of my favorite chairs right now...

The scoop back chair from West Elm

Via SimplyPear

How lovely it would be to have a seat in these!

Keep it Obscure...

2009-02-27T13:53:00.000-08:00

This weekend I'm going to sink into the background and watch.
escape into the darkness.
hide away in a corner.
and let be my thoughts which I can not clearly express....

Photography by Thierry Le Goues

breathe

Molson Mural

2009-02-27T11:58:00.001-08:00

Molson Revealed it's 2010 Mosaic Mural to support the Canadian athletes of the Winter Olympics. You can submit your photo here and then once they have put all of the images up, there will be a special message for Team Canada.... A nice way to show that Vancouver (or at least Molson) supports the games! I wonder what the message will be, and who designed it?!?

Images via Molson's Blog

Winter Activites

2009-02-27T11:45:00.000-08:00

While I was on my blogging hiatus I came across this great list of Winter Activities from Pure Style Home, which seems quite fitting considering I woke up to snow on my car on yesterday morning. So before winter is over I thought I would follow up and add some ideas of my own to her wonderful list!

Via Ruth

1) Read a book or the newspaper. If you need some inspiration go check out A Cup of Jo since she has posted a couple of times asking what good books are out there.
2) Fix things around the house, or your clothes. You have been wearing your winter clothes for a couple months now, and you must have found some stitching has come undone, there is a hole in your pocket, or over your big toe. If you fix it before the season is out you won't forget about it for the summer. If that sounds too boring you can always watch a movie or listen to a book on tape (wow, sewing and listening to books on tape - I sound old!)

Via Nestled In

3) Get ready for your summer activities. Do you bicycle in the summer? Hike? Run? Play soccer, golf? Well whatever you do, start training now! The Internet has some great resources for sport specific training moves. I did this for the ski season this year, and I can't believe the difference!

4) Do you have a storage area? Do you have boxes in there from years past? You might not think so, but that clutter is putting stress in your life. Take some time to clean it out. It doesn't have to be all in one day (I took 1 month to clean out a closet - just did an hour every other day). The things you will find will make you laugh (or cry) and to be able to either clear it out or put it in a "proper" labelled spot will make you feel way more calm.

5) Change up photos. Do you have photos on display in your house? Do you want to switch them out? Maybe update them with photos from the last year. Now that you have the time, why not update them?

Via Design*Sponge

6)Get ready for birthdays - Spring and summer tend to have a lot of birthdays. For me, it seems like the whole month of May I am just running around trying to find, wrap and give birthday presents. I'm not very good at coming up with present ideas under stress either. I want to take this time in the Winter to think about presents for friends and actually purchase and wrap them so when the time comes I can just whip them out!

7) Go window shopping...especially if the weather is nice, you can take a long walk and check out the store fronts. I love looking at the displays and wondering why they selected those clothes to display and who put that outfit together. It might even give me some ideas for my own wardrobe!

8) Write a letter... it isn't only your grandma who appreciates letters. I'm sure many of your friends would love to have a hand written note from you. Add a photo of something you have done recently and send it off.... I'm sure you'll brighten their day no matter the weather!

9) Take some pictures. Winter, especially if you have snow can be a magical time of year, the lighting is interesting and at oblique angles (see my photo shoot) and the air is crisp and clean. (Hopefully!) Even indoors there are great textures to be had with all the warm willies!

Via Smosch

Love this...

2009-02-26T16:58:00.001-08:00

I just thought I would post this, it is an image that has been saved on my computer since I started writing, and I can't bring myself to delete it. I don't know where it's from, but I love the pattern and the teal - grey mix. It has me thinking of fabric patterns.

Canadian Content

2009-02-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

I'm back.... and what brought me out of my deep winter slumber? Canadian design! I was catching up on some much needed reading and I came across a post on Design*Sponge about the Interior Design Show in Toronto. The show was sponsored by my favorite magazine - Azure!

I love the light webbing through the slats of wood of this sauna. Work by StudioJunction, check out their website, they do amazing things with wood! Image via Design*Sponge

Via Azure

The entrance way of the Gladstone Hotel via Design*Sponge

Both pieces by ceo & waito, they do stunning things with ceramics. Top image via Design*Sponge and lower image from the ceo & waito website.

I especially loved the work by Vancouverite Jeremy Hatch, who installed a porcelain-cast of ropes, pulleys, skids and wrenches... while much of it broke while being shipped out from BC, he was not disappointed, rather he said it just makes the impractical ensemble all the more poetic. If only I could look at all the downs in my life as poetic...

Image via Design*Sponge

Image from Jeremy Hatch's website

Time Off

2009-02-16T22:07:00.000-08:00

Sorry dears, it doesn't seem like a week of photos has restored my energy levels. I believe I am getting hit with some sort of bug going around. I need some time off.

I'll be back soon!

Keep it fun....

2009-02-13T08:49:00.000-08:00

I didn't want to mention it, I wanted to ignore the day was even upon us, but alas I'm going to acknowledge tomorrow... Valentine's Day. Don't get me wrong, I still don't like the whole idea of Valentine's Day. I find it so serious, dramatic and most often desperately depressing. But this year I want to lighten it up! Forget flowers, forget romantic notes, forget expensive gifts, or lavish jewellery... I'm just going out and doing something I love with someone I love simple as that. So what is it that I am going to do?.. I'm going skiing because I love love it. It's fun, carefree and light hearted - how I think Valentine's Day should be.

Here are some light hearted V-dayesque rooms, with some pink that I can actually stand to look at! (Gasp! I know - I don't like pink either!)

Lip gloss is always fun, and pink is the best lip colour! Via Blueprint Bliss

I love this quilt! I don't know what is so pleasing about it, but I would have it in a guest bedroom in a heartbeat...now all I need is a guest bedroom! My Home Ideas Via A Life's Design

Pops of pink are good. Especially with black and white. Via La Dolce Vita

Pink can be balanced out when paired with calm dull colours such as this grey. I love grey. Via Cote de Texas

Despite the recent pink trend and being around February 14th, this took me a surprisingly long time to compile!... But after looking at these, I admit, I don't totally hate pink, I just won't be painting my walls pink any day soon, especially that pink that is somewhat close to Pepto Bismol pink... and I have seen quite a bit of that lately!

Hope you all have a fun and lovely weekend!

Messy is Beautiful Too

2009-02-12T05:42:00.000-08:00

Yup... still not posting anything of substance... I know I'm a bum. Lets just call it my reading week... or photo week. Here are some that make me feel a little less guilty about the disorganization that is my room... and my life. Thanks Roland Bello.

Check out La La Lovely here for more beautiful mess photos...

Photos while you wait...

2009-02-11T06:45:00.000-08:00

These... made me smile. Photography by Todd Selby I feel like he is a funny man.

Until the Next Time...

2009-02-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

Here are some images from James Merrell to keep you going for the next little while.... I'm going to need longer than I thought to recharge!

Monday Snoozes?

2009-02-09T12:39:00.000-08:00

Yes it's Monday... I had the whole weekend to sleep and I have the whole week in front of me... but of course... I am still on weekend time and I have a little bit of the Sunday Snoozes... Wouldn't it be lovely to be curling up here instead of going to grab a coffee?...

Country Living

Via Apartment Therapy via Apartment 34

Sorry for the lack of creative posts my dears. Hopefully a little more in one of these will bring me back for tomorrow!... Until then!

Easy Eco Mondays - Transportation Habits

2009-02-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

My work calender has a sustainable tip each month, and I thought I would share... February's focus is on Transportation. This is what it reads:

"Change your habits so that living green isn't a daily task but a natural behaviour. If everyone left their car at home one day a week it would make a huge difference. Biking is good for your health (and possible here in February!!) and the health of the planet. Don't like to ride a bicycle? Try walking, walking just 30 minutes a day has numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, boosting good cholesterol and reducing your risk of a stroke. Share a ride one or two days a week and you'll get to know a neighbour or co-worker better, save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint."

Via Copenhagen Cycle Chic

I think the tip is trying to portray that it only takes minimal extra effort to make a environmentally sustainable transportation decision. The difference between talking about it and actually doing it is small. 10 extra minutes of planning can make your environmental wants a reality...

Check out this guy - he is training for a Marathon by actually running all of his errands! Via TreeHugger

If driving is the only way to work, then try and be more sustainable in other transportation areas, walk to get your groceries, or run errands. I know I am going to take transit more even though it is longer. Today I spent the time on the bus reading instead of trying to dodge poor drivers. I also just remembered that one of my co-workers lives near me, I am going to ask her today if she would like a ride tomorrow. It's the little things that really add up!

Saturdays are for....

2009-02-07T17:44:00.000-08:00

Not writing blogs! Apparently neither are Fridays this week either! I'm on a bit of a girls weekend, so time has flown by!

Wouldn't it be lovely to entertain in a setting like this? via Desire to Inspire

I hope you are all having a good weekend too!

Afraid of the Dark

2009-02-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

Does anyone remember that series "Are you Afraid of the Dark?" based on the novels by Sidney Sheldon? Well, I felt like one of the characters in that show last night...and I will fully admit - I am afraid of the dark. I am still asking myself why voluntarily I in went into a forest outside of town at night... (ah what we do for skiing!) And why I let my imagination get the best of me? I'm 25 years old, I should be able to reasonably convince myself that the bogey man doesn't exist! But the forest was eerily, quiet, and full of shadows... Several times I jumped around sure that something was behind me ready to attack! I think this means no more scary movies if I ever want to grow out of my fear of the dark!

Good thing I am not afraid of rooms with a dark pallet!

Martyn Thompson via Designers' Brew

Via Coco + Kelley

Marie Claire Maison via Designers' Brew

Out for Lunch

2009-02-04T14:52:00.001-08:00

Today at lunch I did something completely out of character. I got up and just started walking. I wasn't going to get food, or meeting anyone, I just decided to go outside...it was like I was possessed. With my camera in hand I took photos of everything. I tried to keep my focus on taking photos close up, focusing on the texture, and form. I have never taken a photography course before so I had no clue what I was doing... I am sure I looked especially weird, walking around a suburbia office/light industrial area taking close up photos with my mini point and shoot camera! But I didn't care, I crouched down on the road, pointed my lens to the sky and crawled around in a playground until my memory card was full. Please be kind, this is my first random photo session....

(Note: Thinking back on this random act of mine - I realized that it was a culmination of many things - Finding my camera, returning to civilization, realizing that I didn't document my last work assignment very well, commuting to work, the time of year and the sunny skies. Not so random after all!)

Shrug Love....

2009-02-04T10:55:00.000-08:00

The sequence mini dress is cute, the photo is original, her legs are envy worthy but the over the shoulder sweater is to die for! I love the curvy and slouchy sleeves that become the body and the fine stripes add to the flow! Now if only I could find a pattern - or even see the back of it... then maybe I could use my new sewing machine to re-create this!

French Vogue via trust your style

In the Neutrals

2009-02-04T05:52:00.000-08:00

Lately light, airy neutrals have been popping up, and after all the colour predictions from the beginning of this year, I am embracing these calming neutral tones.

Paul Whicheloe Via Desire to Inspire

Michael S Smith

Photography Mikkel Vang Stylist Christine Rudolph via desire to inspire

Terri from Wind Lost

Martha Stewart

H & M via Apartment #34

Petrina Tinslay via Emma's Design Blogg

Domino via Sfgirlbybay

David Tsay via Sfgirlbybay

Via Garance Dore

Has anyone else noticed an increase in muted tones and neutral colour palettes?

Clever Living

2009-02-03T05:46:00.000-08:00

Ferm means clever in Dutch, and is a very telling word for the company Ferm Living, who make very ferm products. They also have a blog (Clever Spaces) showing clever creative uses for their clever and creative products...

I love the gold and purple of the tree bomb wallpaper....clever name!

Wallpaper stuck on the inside of a lamp, you can only see the design when the light is on... clever, yet again!

I love this workplace!

Would go great in a black and white room!!

This wall decal was scribbled over, and then removed... the reverse effect!

Messy Boots

2009-02-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

As the rain poured down yesterday I went rain boot shopping with one of my friends. I must admit, it is surprisingly hard to find a good pair of rain boots in this wet town! Well that is, it is tough to find a good pair that does not have a nauseating busy/tacky pattern, are not more than 100 dollars (come on they are rain boots after all!), do not have heals or aren't some drab cold weather colour. We didn't have any success yesterday, but it did remind me of this great project posted on Apartment Therapy Boston last week on how to manage your wet and muddy boots once you seek comfort in your cozy abode.

This DIY is simple and cheap. Katie, the mastermind behind this idea explained that she took two unrelated IKEA items and put them together to form a boot tray. She used the lid of the"Ladis" plastic storage bin and some shiny garden stones. Together they became this innovative, easy to use, and smart looking boot tray!

This will give me one less excuse to not fulfill my new years resolution!

Easy Eco Mondays - Be fish Aware

2009-02-02T05:55:00.000-08:00

Since moving to Vancouver I have developed an appreciation for fish... not only because they are tasty and so readily available here, but more that they are almost intertwined with life. Fish design, and drawing are found everywhere, while remnants of fish can also be found washed up on the shore. This constant reminder makes me question... what fish (or seafood) can be consumed in a sustainable fashion? I am of course not the only person wondering this so I went on the hunt for some resources.

Keller + Keller

Jocelyne Beaudoin

David Suzuki's Green Guide has some top choices: Catfish (US farmed), Clams (farmed), Halibut (wild, pacific), Pollock (wild, Alaska), Rainbow Trout (farmed) and Tilapia (US farmed).
The Environmental Defense Fund also has a list of fish ranging from Eco-Best to Eco-Worst. Everything from Mussels to Crab to Shark are on the list. They also have a sushi fish list.
Monteryey Bay Aquarium has a Seafood Watch Pocket Guide and now a feature where you can have it synced to your iphone, so you are up to date and can make informed decisions on the go.
Foodgal a fellow blogger even recommended a sustainable sushi bar Tataki Sushi and Sake Bar in San Fransisco (if you are every visiting)

As I go out to buy my weekly groceries, I will keep the Seafood Watch guideline close to me!

Victoria Granof

(Note: This week is the State of the Salmon Conference here in Vancouver, it is the second international conference dedicated to the conservation of Pacific salmon. Fitting time to be thinking about fish consumption!)