feminine wiles & urban survival 101

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2012-01-25T01:20:00.000-05:00

This amazing example of how to keep a customer for life! Chris King..you rock!
New sizing on Tim Hortons coffee cups! (I've had 2 now...not bad at all!)
Background kit & muslin finally purchased...thus making it easier for dramatic indoor shoots :)
More Etsy sales! Whoop!
Chats avec Sharon & Kim
'Staples' City

A Little (Late) Tuesday Love For...

2012-01-21T23:50:00.000-05:00

Clothing on sale! Bought a pair of jeans, a top and a sparkly dress for $54.33 *score!*
Abandonning a project 4 days in...one I was kind of dreading
Catching up with Scott...even if only by email! ;)
Bright red lipstick on gray days
Kitchen dancing
Kisses from a chihuahua
Old flatmates
Blog updates..
Being so busy that I can barely catch up!

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2012-01-03T00:11:00.000-05:00

The lingering smell of campfire smoke on my scarf and coat *mini swoon*
Pinterest! (Thanks AP for the invite!)
Playing hide & seek with cute cousins (first cousins once removed*L*)
This awesome CD on repeat - Awake, You Sleepers! by Will Currie & The Country French
The return of Chris Lilley to HBO with Angry Boys
King sized beds...so much bigger than my queen size.
More Etsy sales! :)
2012...thus far.
Not a bad read, fast and twisty... Saving Rachel by John Locke

A Little Tuesday Love For....

2011-12-27T00:04:00.001-05:00

Super sweet friend/client who enhanced my Kobo library with some gift cards towards books.

Being able to update my Kobo ereader much easier than I had thought with said new books!

This Japanese video on how to get past slow walkers...

The copious amounts of chocolate I received AND consumed *eeek..this is also a hate for the week*

My new desire to 'Get Shit Done'...in all areas of my life. (It's not new, it just comes & goes)

Seeing family and friends I've not seen for AGES at our Christmas dinner

Thinking about what dayplanner I need for 2012. I love stationery.

Watching both 'The King's Speech' and 'Jane Eyre' (see above) this week..

Ice packs & Advil for a sore knee... *bugger*

Chats with an old online pal & chats with another from past blog entries.

Starting that scarf I was planning..

Updates...

2011-12-18T15:30:00.001-05:00

So, I've kept it fairly quiet..but I started a full-time job at the beginning of the month.
It's not an ideal job for me, but it's something I do pretty easily & as it is a contract position, it allows me consistent cash for the next 3 months. Provided I don't kill someone.

That said, it's definitely taking time away from what I really want to do (photography), but thankfully I still have weekends off for actual shoots and I am booking more, which is definitely a bonus!

I'm not going to lie. Consistent money is great. It's reliable, which is something I'd been lacking the past couple of years & I was very happy to be able to save some money from my first cheque as well as pay off my new camera. I'm hoping that by the end of winter, it'll be paid off and I'll have more leads for my other gig. I just hope it stays around....

As for the feminine wiles portion of my life, I don't really know where to begin. I guess the best thing to say is that when it rains, it pours...and when there is a dryspell, it's a very long dryspell.
The same few players are in and out of my life (and all at the same time usually).

I'm pretty much just sitting back and seeing what happens. That said, I'm also seriously considering joining up to another online dating site for 2012. Not exactly the route I want to take, but I have no clue where the men are hanging out!*LOL*

I have a whole list of new projects I want to undertake this year from knitting to snowshoeing to learning a new technique in piano playing. I really just want to do a lot this year. Less 'figuring things out' and more doing...in all areas. All my crazy projects will be listed in the new year once I really nail it down...and of course I'll add on all the stuff I never managed to finish this year.

I'm really looking forward to the new year...

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2011-12-13T23:00:00.003-05:00

the Keurig holiday pack of flavoured coffees
black ink pens
old haunts
random text messages from boys
beautiful winter mornings when the snow lies on the trees (and then completely disappears a couple of days later)
cute hairclips
bagels & lox
the smell of pine
Etsy sales
2 hours left on a shift at work
Bonne Bell Lipsmackers

A Little Tuesday Love for...(Dear Santa)

2011-11-29T14:37:00.000-05:00

Dear Santa,

I know it's not yet December. But I need to make sure I get my list in early this year.
I think I've been pretty reasonable with my requests and all of them are fairly small enough for you to carry.

As for whether I've been good this year, I'm pretty sure I've not been as bad as I have in other years.
That counts, right??

I would really, really, really love this:

The LomoKino & LomoKinoscope Package (which I may actually splurge & buy myself this weekend if things go well!)
A 35 mm analogue movie maker. You know it's cool. Crank handle and all.

A Dress from Dig For Victory :: These dresses are just simply gorgeous!

A ring from One Garnet Girl :: these rings are simply stunning! All of 'em.

Fluevogs (of course!)...Libby Smiths. Awesome.

This jacket from Danier. I'm not going to lie, if I could have her figure too, that'd be great. Thanks.

A really good haircut & colour (I need this pretty badly, I must admit)

Vivian Maier :: Street Photographer book. Amazing story, amazing photographs...enough said.

Prepara Herb Savor :: I love herbs and love to buy them, but absolutely hate not being able to use them all in one go. This would definitely help! (Lee Valley Tools also has this herb pod which looks pretty awesome!)

Okay, this may seem a little ridiculous, but it would be fun! Zoku Popsicle Maker (in purple please!)

Santa's Secret Tea from David's Tea :: Absolutely love this stuff!

This Ikea PS Maskros Ceiling lamp :: I've not had bulbs in my bedroom besides a bedside table in ages..may as well have something fun!

Also, I'd really like to not have to shave my legs again...you know, like ever.
If we could do something about that too, I'd be very happy.

Thanks Santa!
Melanie
xo

NaBloPoMo and the failure of it....(for me)

2011-11-21T20:11:00.000-05:00

Okay...so it was an auspicious start to National Blog Posting Month (NaBloPoMo) & what would/could have been hard/rewarding/interesting. But alas, I have given up the ghost and admit that I don't have enough interesting going on to post everyday (without revealing ALL of my inner thoughts).

My inner thoughts these days have been pretty all over the place too. So you are all in luck that I've not been sharing.

That said, I have a lot of great things to look forward to in 2012 already as well as a lot of really great stuff this past year...which will feature in a blog post at some point. *grins*

I think in future posts, I may be stripping the blog back to the focus of the title (time will obviously tell)..but I like the idea of talking about dating again, shopping, taking photos and building my life the way I want it..

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2011-11-15T14:29:00.001-05:00

Glee Mashups this week...Especially this Adele one...
This crazy tasty mushroom stew
A ton of veg & meat on sale for under $25 - which means lots of soups & stirfries this week!
Catching up with friends this weekend, including a photoshoot with one of the cutest boys around.
Facebook Scrabble -- go on, challenge me ;)
This Etsy purchase... I'm looking forward to wearing it!
These crazy nut-seed grain-free granola bars I made...seriously addictive
This scent from Bath & Body Works... Marshmallow Fireside. LOVE!

Spendy, Spendy, Spendy

2011-11-13T17:27:00.001-05:00

November hasn't been the spendy month I was anticipating (oddly enough), even with a trip outside the province, I managed to save some much needed cash.

December however seems to be where my money will be flowing.
On top of Christmas presents, I need to seriously renew my passports (at least one), send my cousins their wedding gift (still waiting on part of it arriving) and my little brother and his fiancee are having their engagement party. In short, December will cost me more than I planned, but hopefully what I have saved from November (and smart shopping) will make it easier.

I do have some fun things arriving in the mail just for me too... a book of travel photos from my recent excursion & a fun headband that I had been excited about purchasing. Whoop! Inexpensive, but fun.

I'm excited about the new eating plan too...and trying to be as cost effective as possible about it. Which means a lot of seasonal eating veggie wise.

I Need A Change...

2011-11-12T22:23:00.028-05:00

I'm giving up grains...and traditional dairy.
I really only drank dairy in my coffee and enjoyed cheese & chocolate far too much.
So, I'm gonna cut those out for a spell. Not to mention that I think I may actually be lactose intolerant.
I know I need to go and get tested, but seems to make sense. Obviously I'll be cutting back on sugars too, but will treat myself once a week.

Last weekend was great and despite some seriously huge blisters which inhibited me from really enjoying everything that I wanted to, I want to feel better about myself overall. (Of course the blisters and pms bloat didn't help *ugh*). I especially want to look & feel better when I run into him again.

I'm keeping my regular gym dates with Evelyn and going back to incorporating some everyday dancing (don't ask) and depite fricken hating the gym, I really do need to go more often. That said, I think I'm going to look into snowshoes for this winter.

So, I'm scooping up some recipes online and going back to cooking everything rather than grabbing something fast & quick. Which means I'll finally be making granola and a whole host of other healthy stuff! *whoop*

Change starts tomorrow morning.

Lest We Forget...

2011-11-11T18:21:00.001-05:00

Thank you..
for fighting and dying and going to places you can barely pronounce as a young man or woman...simply to look after all the rights and freedoms that we may have.

Thank you...

Last Friday Night

2011-11-10T13:16:00.000-05:00

Okay...so totally catchy pop tune and something I would have loved loved loved as a 13 yr old, but it is sending the wrong message nowadays to 9 yr olds? 13 yr olds? 15 yr olds?
Where do we draw the line?

Creating Plans...

2011-11-09T21:24:00.004-05:00

I've told you all a bajillion times how much I enjoy lists. (I think my Tuesday Love List is a weekly reminder of that!)
I do. I really do.

So I've been thinking of my list over here...and all the stuff I still need to accomplish!
I think I may start knitting something soon...*eeps*
And all of the stuff I did that I actually never put on the list to begin with! (There's quite a bit)
I've also been thinking about the list for 2012.
I need to sit down and start working on all that stuff. This year is flying by.

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2011-11-08T23:00:00.006-05:00

*Unseasonably warm weather for November
*Weekends
*Poppy box thief turning himself in...
*The most random of feathers...
*Murmuration of Starlings
*Blister BandAids
*Driving into Toronto...the old, the new, the skyscrapers, the lights...truly a big beautiful city
*History lessons under a duvet
*Voices meant for broadcasting...
*Feeling every colour with the sunlight pouring in... and smiling. Lots of smiling.

Hey Soul Sister...

2011-11-07T23:45:00.001-05:00

Yep...Glee.
Love it. Judge if you will.

My Immediate World Lies Sleeping...

2011-11-06T06:15:00.001-05:00

...and yet I'm awake...curled up under a duvet and listening to the sounds in this room.

Quiet, still.

Trying to keep my breathing even and relaxed, not trying to get back to sleep, but trying to absorb everything and keep the thoughts in my head on an even keel.

It's been so long.

Light filtering in and wondering what today holds. Ongoing thoughts that I'm trying to shut out & some I'm trying to embrace.

I'm not the only one wondering, I think.

Saturdays...

2011-11-05T10:10:00.001-04:00

I've not had many Saturdays
like this...

but if I had my choice

there'd be more of them

...exactly in this manner.

(Minus the blisters)

How Can This Not...

2011-11-04T07:28:00.000-04:00

...make you smile?
Big adventure today...can't say too much, but nervous/anxious/scared/excited/happy...

The Wearing of Music

2011-11-03T19:36:00.002-04:00

Lately I've been listening to a lot of music when I write (or blog, journal,etc)...

I also find that I keep certain songs on repeat and by repeat I mean MANY, MANY, MANY times over and over (past the point of irritation for many). So much so that it's almost like I am trying to absorb the melody and the words into my skin.

Sometimes it's the latest pop song (I'm not immune to Katy Perry) or whatever melancholy song strikes out at me. I like those sad songs. As Elton would say, "they say so much."

I wear those songs like armour, embracing each swell and lull. Each pluck of a guitar string or plink of a piano key make up who I am. All of it mood based for the most part.

I'm trying not to be anxious about things I have no control over and music helps me in that sense.
I've been playing music a lot this week...and now I need to snuggle up and get some sleep.
Tomorrow is a big day.

Feet Don't Fail Me Now...

2011-11-02T01:09:00.000-04:00

Sometimes in life, we need to take a chance...a leap of faith that will either push you toward something better or hurl you off the cliff.

Sometimes it's a mix of both.

That's the chance...always a 50/50 possibility of success.

And if you don't take the opportunity when it arises, it's 100% fail...no matter how you look at it.

I'm all about taking chances. I have for years on many different things. They haven't all been wonderful, some of them were downright horrid...but it was my chance to take.

All I ask is that my feet don't fail me now...

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2011-11-01T00:41:00.001-04:00

Halloween & fun dress up wigs!
NaBloPoMo - oh yeah, I may be crazy after not blogging for ages, but I'm gonna try it once again.
This crazy Split Decision pie pan
People taking chances and making changes in their lives...and knowing how/when to do it. Love you girls!
Scrabble on Facebook...I may be addicted.
Thinking about snowshoeing...
Bon Iver's version of Peter Gabriel's Come Talk to Me
Possibly meeting up with my Flickr friend this weekend!
Planning out projects for 2012.

A Little Tuesday Love for...

2011-10-25T12:18:00.001-04:00

* easy apple crisp for one! (or two..or whatever)

* a new black suede boots

* my new camera -Canon 5D MkII (yeah!)

* pumpkin chai tea from David's Tea

* what can only be considered a small collection of wigs I'm cultivating...

* reading (seems silly, but stopped for a while there)

* crafting fascinators with my mom for my relatives to wear at a wedding

* ear kisses from the dog

* getting over all the bad vibes/karma/luck I had the past couple of weeks

* return of Dexter & the Walking Dead

* creepy NPR's Scream Stream

* fun photoshoots with pals

* loads of creepy movies on tv...best season of the year

Stumbled Onto A Song I Loved...

2011-09-13T23:40:00.000-04:00

Was reminded today just how much I love this song. I recovered my Ray LaMontagne CD from under some books and enjoyed it's simplicity. Sometimes, lyrics are everything.

This song goes out to the Britboy (doubt he'll ever see it...but it's here for me to know about).

A Little Late Sunday Love For...

2011-08-28T23:50:00.001-04:00

Doritos 'Intense Pickle' Chips. *yum*
Crazy weather the past week and yet everyone still being safe

Corn on the Cob season :)

A Britboy who walked all the way to see me on a broken foot -sans cast *eeek* *awww*

CreativeLive courses. Chase Jarvis seriously rocks.

Key Lime Pie on a stick...and dipped in chocolate. Oh yeah, I said it (and will make it)

Belonging to a community of bloggers & photographers who feel like kindred spirits

New camera gear

A crazy audio-visual documentary project I helped out with this weekend!

A Little (Late) Tuesday (Friday) Love For...

2011-08-05T20:03:00.000-04:00

These crazy awesome wedding Viewmaster invites/save the dates. Genius.
Knowing exactly what I'm giving my cousin Kari as a wedding gift! :) (That never happens)
Being pretty excited about the ESL program I've been working on to take place in August
A car charger for my iPod from the dollarstore. Crazy.
The antibiotics that seemly *fingers crossed* got rid of the crazy case of dermatitis I had.
A super-awesome course on CreativeLIVE from the LightenUpandShoot.com dudes.
Daydreaming about the perfect 1 bedroom apartment..exposed brick, large windows, balcony, fireplace. yep.
A new photography booking at the end of the month. Woot!
Ontario fruits and vegetables in season...so fresh and so many! Corn, cucumbers, peppers, peaches..yum.
Tossing out a bunch of things and putting together some things to sell on eBay. Yay!

A Little Tuesday Love For...

2011-07-26T01:24:00.001-04:00

* A bra on sale. Seems so minor really, but cute lingerie under $16 is a steal!
* My new handbag by Danier that I bought while out with AP. It's the perfect size!
* My water bottle by PureHydration, which is stainless steel, has strainers for tea, is BPA free and condensation doesn't form on it...making it the perfect bottle to toss into a camera bag or purse! (It also saved me from heat stroke last week!)
* An upcoming visit with Tricia *whoop*
* Skype chats avec Shazzzza.
* Antibiotics that seem to be working...
* True Blood's Eric Northman. *swoon* (That's saying a lot because I've always been a big fan of brunettes, but there's something about Alexander Skarsgard.)

Photo from Interview Magazine

*Mano A Mano in el Bano. Old Spice Guy, you really do crack me up. Tuesday, July 26th @ 12pm EST. Old Spice Guy vs Fabio.
>

* Realising I don't need another countersignature that I thought I did to renew my UK passport
* An extra work day! yay!! Loving more money...

Back to Black

2011-07-24T11:44:00.001-04:00

Amy Winehouse...so full of promise and raw talent. A lifestyle she could not overcome forced her into the 27 Club. Such a waste to not have sorted herself out.

Getting help for addiction is never easy, but it can be done...there are those out there doing it everyday.

A Little (Late) Tuesday Love For...

2011-07-21T00:57:00.000-04:00

* A fantastic 'Trash the Dress' session with fellow photographer Jennie Levy (and other photogs Christian Demers and Mike Kalimin) You can see other photos from the shoot here.

* Catching the Umbrellas of Cherbourg at the TIFF outdoor showing with my fabulous cousin Kim
* This video on Photography Rights in the UK (Private vs Public Property) called Stand Your Ground
* This black raspberry & lemonade galette shown below (recipe soon to be posted on Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend)

* This Song: Everyday Will Be Like A Holiday by William Bell (yep..Christmas in July..but listen to those horns!)
* Meeting up with a certain Britboy and feeling positive about changes moving forward(in all regards).
* Fabulous sushi lunches...
* Afternoon swims
* New stickers, labels and business cards for my photography business. Exciting.

A Little Tuesday Love for...

2011-07-12T10:00:00.003-04:00

I can't seem to stop playing this..many, many times:

*Tim Robison's July 4th photos and blog post..so sweet
*Gold sparkly flats with a bit of a heel by Gossip and at $39.99, I really should buy (I've cleaned out my shoe closet :( )
*Finally having the new pool lining in and water! Very exciting, ya know...for July.
*Going to see Umbrellas of Cherbourg tomorrow...outdoors...with Kim...and wine...and fun..and flirting with strange men!
*Hudson's Bay Blankets
*The smell of paint in the reno'ed bathroom
**Dark denim Laura dress for fall ($149.99)...perfect for a job interview with a really hip company(at some point...or a client meeting...oooh...yes)
*Dr. Pepper slushees
*All the new MOO stickers I need to order
*Dear Photograph
*The fact I managed to stay on an eliptical machine for more than 30 minutes this week
*Cheese & onion on a bagel
*Razors with bikini trim attachment things...how did they not make these sooner??
*Saying hello to strangers on the street...for absolutely no reason at all.
*Knowing I'm the kind of gal a mother loves...
*Contemplating a tattoo like this... or one of Amanda Wachob's gorgeous modern tattoos (love the clouds!)
*Summer hair...just pinning it back or ponytailing it (despite the fact I need a cut very, very badly)
*Iced coffees..
*Knowing what to be thankful for when so many aren't...or even open to it. (It'll be a regular Tuesday thang now ;) )

Lately....

2011-07-11T10:52:00.000-04:00

I've neglected you....and I'm sorry.
I've not only neglected my blogs out in the interweb, but I've also neglected reading blogs out there.
Summer does that to us I guess.
Not that I'm making excuses (although I suppose it does sound that way when I read back).

I've been thinking a lot about life, love, passion, fear and all those delicious & worrisome in between emotions that surprise us most when we aren't even thinking about them.

July has come...which brings with it engagements, more purging of stuff (although I feel like I am constantly doing that), country drives with country boys, city scenes with city guys, radishes on toast, copious amounts of homemade hummous, music mix tapes, shopping for summer gear (although you probably should have done that in spring), xxl iced coffees that drip condensation down your lap, laughing babies, big kisses from little dogs, fresh produce and farmer's markets.

I've been thinking about how I can't get into audio programming the way some can. I don't 'do' the whole podcast scene and I don't listen to them. They completely make me yawn. I love music. The lyrics, the crescendos, the rhythms, the lulls and the whole composition that just pull the piece into one fabulous swell of emotion. I dance, I sing, I think, I interact by rocking out on air drums (yes, I really do). I am involved and engaged.

But sports on the radio leave me flat...unable to participate. I feel the same about talk radio, news radio (I prefer my news online, in print or on tv) and podcasts. I engage with words. I love reading words and absorbing them, breaking them apart, seeing them, feeling the ability to interact with them.

I don't get that with audio chatter.
I argue that it creates and entertains a very passive audience.
I don't know if I'm one of the few individuals that feel this way or if there are lots of us out there... either way, give me a song any day.

....I am working on a few blog posts that 'should' get me back up to speed! ;)

Holy Crap...It's June!

2011-06-02T01:45:00.001-04:00

You know...my mini and unannounced break from the blog turned into a full out, no holds barred stop for a couple of months. Eeps. I hope some of you are still there!But I'm back-ish. At least to post and tell you all the things that have kept me away from the blog.
Fair enough?

Deal.

So here goes....

*I've enrolled in about a bajillion photography courses. A lot of them with CreativeLive (pretty awesome AND free if you watch while they are live.)

*I completed the Dr. Joshi 21 day holistic detox (I didn't seem to notice any crazy changes, but I have kept some of the habits..yay for rice milk smoothies!)

*I photographed Johanna & Andrew's gorgeous wedding in Timmins and in the process had a phenomenal roadtrip with my equally phenomenal cousin Kim who assisted (and will hopefully convince to do again)!

*I picked up an extra day at work during the week (which has helped moneywise, but is coming to an end :( )

*I really kicked up my photography page on Facebook by actually adding photos and telling people about it.(shocking, I know!)...go on, like it. You know you want to!

*I created a series of vision boards to help me get my proverbial 'crap' together

*I've picked up a part time gig in August coordinating a Japanese ESL program *super excited* which will have me living on the University of Toronto campus while the boys are here. Crazy!

*I'm shooting another wedding in July! (This time in Aurora)

*I have a 'Trash the Dress' shoot coming up this month/possibly July as well as a model shoot coming up.

*I've been trying to organise myself and work to some sort of 'schedule'...although I'm not so great at following my To Do lists all the time.

*I'm really trying to pare down my things. That said, I STILL have a bag of things in my trunk to donate. More to get rid of/donate/sell as well & a better sense of my space is desperately needed. (Not to mention my desire to find a different space.)

*So many other things...but I'll be better at blogging...I swear!

A Cleaning, A Cleansing...

2011-04-09T17:58:00.000-04:00

With signs of spring FINALLY showing up in Ontario (thank God!), the scrubby grasses and trees aren't the prettiest to look at, but at least we know that something will emerge from the current seas of browns and grassy yellows on lawns and fields.

Spring always inspires cleaning (for me at least) and a general purging of stuff/junk/things I no longer need or want or have even looked at in a year.
I also try to accumulate less! (Always key)

I actually managed to get rid of a load of things earlier in the year (and have a huge bag of stuff in the back of my car to take to Goodwill), but I know I can do better and get rid of even more. So that is one of my goals until the end of April (and to sell a few things on Ebay/Etsy). I always have many goals on the move, I know!

And then, there's the cleansing.

Which you can read more about over at Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend later tonight.

The Junos

2011-03-28T12:48:00.000-04:00

It was no surprise that The Arcade Fire would walk away with multiple Junos at the show last night, but it was a surprise as to how much Bieber was shut out of the Junos! Drake was an amazing host and I have to say that he could teach James Franco a thing or two in that department!

The performances were top notch (MUCH better than the Grammys) and despite not showing any of the Rock categories, the show really was spectacular.

It has to be said as well... Jim Cuddy is still the sexiest man in Canadian music.

Hope is the Thing with Feathers

2011-03-21T16:11:00.000-04:00

Dark and vast stretches of land and sky.
March. Travel. Destination.
Marching on.
It feels like it's been forever since I saw the sun and yet here we are, with spring before us and sunshine on the horizon.
Spring, which brings all things new and promising.
Perhaps more so this year than others...one can hope.

It's been a while since I posted and many things have occured in that timeframe.
You know the sort of things that you want to talk about, but words simply can't fill the space in your head and you wonder about how 'safe' it is to open yourself like a proverbial can of worms. The fear of emptying the contents of your innermost soul onto the keyboard and further afield.

So I'll leave it like this...
My heart is swollen. A pulpy red mass existing in the cavern of my chest constantly edging closer to the surface. Happy, proud.

She is in remission.
He is getting help.

"Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune--without the words,

And never stops at all,"

~ Emily Dickinson

Shooting Film #1

2011-03-13T21:30:00.001-04:00

Still not terribly impressed with the shots from the second roll of film on my Mini Diana, but I'm partly aware that some of it must be user error (you know, like 90% of it). I'm also a bit bummed because they are blurrier than I had anticipated and I seem to be missing shots!
Not to mention the cost of developing was higher than I thought it would be. I need to investigate some more options...that said, these were my favourites on the roll so I thought I'd share.

This week I am teaching an ESL curriculum to students coming from Japan! Yes. Japan. I imagine it will be an emotional time (although they come from an relatively unaffected area in Japan, it still must be somewhat traumatic). I look forward to the challenge and no doubt will have a very good experience.

I Didn't Get The Job

2011-03-05T00:06:00.000-05:00

As most of you know (I think anyway), I've been having a tough time finding the perfect gig for me since I returned from Scotland. (Outside the photography realm of course). So landing an interview this past week with a company that I really respected was definitely a jolt for my self-esteem in the ability-to-land-a-job department.

But tonight, I learned that I didn't get the job.
That's fine as I've picked up an extra day at my current job and have a fantastic ESL experience that I'm really looking foward to coming up, plus a couple more shoots booked. (Yay!)
I'm really disappointed as I really like what these guys do and I thought I brought a lot to the table (I still feel that way!) and I really looked as this opportunity to finally move out of my house (in a couple of months). That was the BIG picture..moving out. I really want to move.

I was already picturing a new place for all my stuff and a new life unfolding. But, the reality is...I'm still on the job hunt and I need to stop daydreaming about what an apartment will look like. *sigh*

At least until the next interview.

New Look? Yes Please.

2011-02-27T16:15:00.000-05:00

I'm rockin' out a new look for spring.
I've had jet black hair for about a year (but I desperately need a new style...or some sort of style actually), but the reason I am writing is because I recently bought black framed glasses(with hot pink accents)..for a steal.
$13.

What?? $13??? Yes!
ClearlyContacts.ca was having a special promocode on their website for a free pair of glasses if you'd never shopped with them.(Only paying for the shipping) I was actually in the market for a new pair of glasses (and rather broke..new glasses were definitely NOT in my budget as I also need to buy more contacts shortly), so this could not have come along at a better time! I have to admit, I was worried because I've never bought glasses online...glasses that I'd be unable to try on...glasses that I had only 'hoped' my prescription was okay for..glasses that I hadn't really measured properly frame-wise.

But you know what?
They arrived, completely packaged up in a fantastic hard case, a cloth cleaner, a contact lens case (fantastic because the last new case I had went the way of a Britboy sleepover) and a mini screwdriver! Simply fabulous.

I could not be happier with my $13 new glasses AND they arrived 3 days after I ordered them. Genius.
That said, I plan on switching up my wardrobe for spring this year.
I want to wear more dresses and get more out of the wardrobe that I have...so I need to put together a bunch of outfits and see how I can make what I have work for me in a more cohesive way.
I won't go into detail about how losing 50 lbs would also help me toward that goal..we'll just leave that part unsaid, but I am working on it.

Now all you Canadians who have never bought glasses from ClearyContacts.ca before can go to their Facebook page, 'Like' them...and on March 1st can get their very own pair by entering a special promocode when you order your own glasses!! *details on their Facebook page*

Totally worth it.

I Want to Live in This Space, Be in This Place.

2011-02-15T22:57:00.000-05:00

I want to live here at the Poseidon Undersea Resort..without a lot of irritating hotel guests shaking fistloads of money and demanding things.
I better start making a lot more money.

Until then, I live here:

Which is fine...but I'm itching for something new.
A big change.
I have lots of mini changes going on...but I need something big.
Something a box of permanent haircolour won't fix.

I frequently talk of change on this blog, but I need to make it a reality in 2011.
I am looking for a move, I crave a romance, a more serious dedication to my photography (which I've been completely working on).

So far, I've been making more of an effort with my photography by undertaking the 365 again, following up with potential clients and working away at building something for myself.
I've reinvigorated my financial planning spreadsheets and get my finances back in shape and I am going back to the gym...

Dark Side of the Lens and Iron & Wine...

2011-02-02T12:41:00.003-05:00

DARK SIDE OF THE LENS from Astray Films on Vimeo.

Beautiful and Inspiring....

And did I tell you I'm addicted to NPR's Tiny Desk Concerts?
Because I am.
In fact, everyone should listen to them (any artist)..

I would love to work at NPR's office..especially on these days. *swoon*
This segment is by the fantastic Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) with 3 selections from his upcoming album 'Tree By the River' is especially beautiful and an oldie...perfect afternoon.

New York...A Recap (In Photos)

2011-01-31T16:02:00.002-05:00

For more photos...please check out my Flickr page. :)

I Love This....

2011-01-29T00:16:00.000-05:00

I love this, and I think you will too. :)

New York City Bound

2011-01-22T00:38:00.000-05:00

I am in a tizzy to say the least.
So very excited to be heading to New York with Tricia over the week and sampling whatever the city offers up (literally and figuratively!) :) I am on a photographic mission (and one that pretty much requires eating my way around NYC). I`m excited.

It's also restaurant week (so we made sure to book ourselves into some restaurants we might never have checked out otherwise). We've selected some pretty picturesque places to dine which was also pretty important too! :)

The Russian Tea Room
SushiSamba 7
Kittichai

I am also planning on hitting up Katz's Deli, Momofuku Milk Bar, Donut Plant, Grey`s Papaya...yep, diet...forget it for the next few days. If anyone else has any other recommendations, please let me know!! Also, because I'll be walking a lot, especially on the days that Tricia is busy with work, I know I'll have a lot of running around to do to pack it all in. I'm sure to burn off all those delicious calories.

Sightwise....Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty *Staten Island Ferry view*, Chelsea Hotel, Times Square, Central Park (Strawberry Fields), Grand Central Stn, Chinatown, Ground Zero and in general, whatever I can wave my camera at.. and we have tickets to the Daily Show with Jon Stewart!

I have so much to do before I get all of it done though...laundry, changing money over, mapping out my days, printing out some documents and deciding what to pack *ack*. That part may be the most stressful of all considering I'm only taking a carry on. *eeps*

I know I`m going to come back with a bajillion photos and hopefully loads of reviews and pictures for Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend (which has been sadly not updated in since...well..December.Ugh.)

Personal Finance...in Practice.

2011-01-17T14:01:00.001-05:00

It's funny.
I had a meetup dinner with some fabulous personal finance bloggers this weekend
The Asian Pear, Ginger Won't Snap, The Money Rabbit and Krystal from Give Me Back My Five Bucks.

I was late to dinner and exhausted after being up at 7 am and at work all day, stopping to get gas (I paid cash) and then via public transportation to get there (more cash).
Ugh. I felt like a jerk arriving half an hour late.*gah* Although I had originally said to go ahead and order cause I was going to be late...they still waited. Introduction fail.

We ate and chatted and had a couple of drinks. I had planned to put my dinner on my debit card as I had used cash to pay for gas and transit. The bills arrived and I made my way to the bar to go through the debit process. No worries.
Ummm..until the machine didn't seem to be working.
Now, I have to admit..I knew there was money in my account, I only have access to my chequing account on that card and I don't carry any other forms of plastic (with the exception of my PayPal card) so that I'm not tempted and I never carry a credit card. Ever.

We tried the machine twice...nothing. I could feel my body tensing and a slight twinge of panic came over me. No worries, there's another machine in the downstairs bar. I followed our waitress to that machine...and to my horror...again, nothing.

Most restaurants in Toronto have independent ATMs, so I asked where that was and swallowed the fact I'd have to pay an extra $1.75 to use this machine...but hell, it beat having to go back to the table to reveal the secret horror that while out at a dinner with personal finance bloggers, my personal finance was attempting to slap me in the face.

At the ATM machine, I had to maneuver around a wheelchair that someone had decided to park there and managed to use the machine. I waited patiently for my cash to appear. Instead, an ominous message telling me that they were unable to process my transaction.

Seriously??? No. F*ck. This.was.not.happening.

Like any normal person, I tried the machine again.

Nothing. Nada. Zip. Nil.

F*****ck. This was bad. Not because I had NO clue what the hell was going on with my card, but because it was socially awkward and embarrassing. I don't really know these girls. I mean, it's not like I can say, can someone cover me tonight and I'll get you the next time around? Within the personal finance blogger world, that would make me a pariah.

Of course, on my way back to the table I had to compose myself (while freaking out on the inside) and admit that 'something' was going on with my card. I cursed myself for using cash to get gas and wondering how much cash I actually had in my wallet. I was lucky to actually have enough cash to cover the bill *whew* and a little tip...I was going to have to ask for $2.

Now $2 doesn't sound like much. Hell, $2 is barely a cup of coffee anymore. But it was $2 that would be the worst $2 to have to ask for. Back at the table, the gals started asking if I could pay any other way or if I had a credit card I could put it on. I was embarrassed and mortified. I explained that I didn't, but thankfully I did have some cash. The Asian Pear jumped up to save me right away and I was extremely relieved and thankful!!! Thanks AP!!!!! Leaving the restaurant to grab some hot drinks, I was still in a panic.

I am also one of those people who insist on paying someone back promptly and I was freaked that maybe my card had been compromised, which also meant I'd have to beg a ride from the TTC because I also now did not have fare to get home. I was able to get to a proper bank machine which was working and I paid back AP the $2 and had a tea. I KNEW my account was fine and yet here I was lambasting myself for having THIS happen....but yet it had NOTHING to do with me personally. I still felt like a jerk.

As we all went our separate ways at the end of the night, I walked to the subway and while all the other patrons were running through the turnstiles as the TTC worker was absent and making his way back to the booth and telling people to just go through and not worry about paying...I dropped in $2.

Not the full fare, but the $2 that caused me so much grief.

Home Ownership

2011-01-15T11:35:00.000-05:00

This may or may not come as a shock to you when I say this.
As a single person, I don't think I could ever afford a home.
Unless I win the lottery...or come into some money outside of a regular career...or cohabitate.

I know all of you financially savvy guys and gals will recoil in horror at this observation. However, this is something that I've kind of always believed...due in part to my inability to not want to be tied to any specific location as well as my own financial issues. It's something that many people (in relationships) don't see..that home ownership outside of two paycheques would be a complete nightmare to manage. I find myself constantly reminding people who talk about this when I make such statements as that I will likely rent for the rest of my life. (At least if I was to live in the GTA.)

Now, it's not that I wouldn't love to 'own' something, I just feel that it likely is not in my cards and I'm quite fine with that. *With the exception that I would not be able to fundamentally change certain things in any home I'd rent, that would bother me.*

My issue is also that in the past, I have not been financially savvy. When I see 20-something gals having amassed a good chunk of money in a savings account, it's bittersweet. I wish I was as aware in my 20's as I am now. I wish someone had told me about savings and investing and living frugally and I'm excited for their futures. If there was one thing that I wished I had done differently growing up, it would have been to save money. Even a small amount.

That said, I have bought cars and paid my own insurance and gas and car repairs since I was 16. That was my choice, yes. I also did not live in an area where public transportation was an option. Consequently, I drove my friends around for years because I had the means to do so when they didn't. I worked since I was 15 and I did not save as much if anything for my future. When they amassed student loans to pay for living in residence and tuition, I worked at Tim Hortons to pay for parking and tuition. It was a different sort of 'freedom'.

Am I happy with my financial choices?
Yes...and no.
Like I said, I wish I had saved more money. I wish I had tracked my money.
I have done some incredible things though that others have not. I have travelled and enjoyed the money I had made. I do have quality furniture that I bought and will last for years to come, I still drive and pay for all my bills on a very limitted income presently.

Personal finance is exactly that.
Personal. We make choices on an individual level on what we deem as important/worthy to us at that point in time and like everything in life, we can only reflect briefly on what we would have done and then tromp headfirst into the future while appreciating and adjusting to our situations as we see fit.

Macallan Masters of Photography Competition & Working on the Goals...

2011-01-10T12:41:00.000-05:00

Hey all!!

As part of my goals for 2011, I really need/want to get my name out there and enter some photography competitions! I entered the Macallan's Masters Of Photography competition as my first entry in 2011.

I would absolutely love it if you could give me a hand and vote for my photo at this link here!

It'd be so much appreciated...AND if I have an opportunity to be judged, I could win a trip to Scotland!

Which really...you know I am dying to do!

Thanks!!

Here's the link again....

Craigslist Ads

2011-01-09T22:24:00.001-05:00

WTF is up with all the "I want you to do this for me, but I can't pay you" ads on Craigslist?
Seriously??!!??

It's one thing if someone is offering their services for nothing (which also hits the rest of the people who are trying to move forward in that area), but it's entirely another to brazenly put your ad out there looking for people to do things for free.

It wouldn't even be so bad if I saw one or two, but seems like more and more people are posting ads like this, and it's getting frustrating.

This is Winter..

2011-01-08T01:30:00.000-05:00

This is winter. All grey and naked-like.

Dark mornings, darker afternoons thrown off by the stark white of snow.

Sometimes, it depresses me...and sometimes it scares me.

I wandered out into the field alone...no tracks in front of me, and only my own behind.

I got to thinking about when I had no fear.

And how I lost that somewhere along the way.

What made me afraid to wander further afield..in all areas of my life, not limited to an empty farmers field and a blanket of fresh snow? And yet this scared me too.

I used to be brave..but now I feel broken.

I used to be alive...but now, just existing.

When did it happen? How? More importantly..why?

I don't speak of how I feel, second guessing everything that comes out of my mouth.

I can't make the simplest decisions and my playlist is stuck on repeat.

Much like winter, this life. Yet I am sure there is movement under the snow.

We celebrate a new year as if there will be momentous change, and there is, but not until the January snow has melted & our mindset has truly embraced change.

Change is great. Needed. Craved. Consumed.

Change brings hope and promise. I am changing things.

I have to.

I've had this song on repeat all day...and it's sad and beautiful and perfect for these January days.
Winterlong ~ Neil Young

I waited for you, Winterlong

You seem to be where I belong.
It's all illusion anyway.

If things should ever turn out wrong
And all the love we have is gone,
It won't be easy on that day.

Waiting to follow
Through the dreamlight of your way
Is not so easy for me now.

Half the time has passed away
Things we thought of yesterday
Come back now, come back now.

Waiting to follow
Through the dreamlight of your way
Is not so easy for me now.
Half the time has passed away
Things we thought of yesterday
Come back now, come back now.
I waited for you Winterlong
You seem to be where I belong.

Directions....HELP!

2011-01-05T20:57:00.000-05:00

I'm really torn about where to go with this blog lately.
I can't decide whether I want to go much more personal (I used to write a lot about my personal feelings and thoughts and then kinda stopped doing so for whatever reason)...or less personal and just include more photos.

I've been trying to think whether I write for myself or for an audience.
I don't know. I 'try' to write things that I think I would want to read if I happened upon this blog.
I mean, lately I haven't been living up to the title I've embraced for the past 7 years. Gah.
I've had one longterm boyfriend in that 7 years, a couple of flings, some great dates which led to more...some horrible dates that made me want to drink...a lot, immediately.

As for the urban survival part...I've not given many helpful tips or hints about that at all!

So I am asking you...because I'm at a total loss.. would you like MORE personal anecdotes/stories/adventures/whatnot (or would that freak you out) or LESS personal with a stronger focus on images?

Help!

#57 Completion & Addition of #96....

2011-01-02T19:38:00.001-05:00

Checked something off the list (Teppanyaki Lunch)....

.....and added something else (Apricot Jam)!

2011's List of Things to Accomplish....

2011-01-02T01:31:00.000-05:00

Feel free to check out my list of things to accomplish this year!
Eeek. 95 task items. Some small, some big...some I'll never get around to!

Let the games begin!

Working on the Resolutions...and the Life List

2010-12-31T01:41:00.000-05:00

So much stuff going on and yet not really, if that makes much sense. (It likely makes NO sense at all)
I'm trying to sort out what I'm doing resolution-wise for 2011.
I kind of know what I'm NOT doing, so maybe I need an anti-resolution list.
Hmmmmm...not entirely a bad idea. A blogger version of "I Never.." if you will.

I'm also going to post up my life list at some point in the coming month...aka the proverbial bucket list. Oddly enough I used to have one in a notebook somewhere and I lost the notebook!! (And after crossing off a bunch of stuff!!) What on earth does that say about me?*LOL*

Anyway...I wish you all the best in 2011 and hope you keep reading :)
*hugs to all*

M.

Christmas Eve Wishes...

2010-12-24T18:58:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all of you and all the joy of the season and festivities that the holidays bring... long into 2011.

We have a white tree this year..don't judge.*LOL*

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

2010-12-22T22:35:00.000-05:00

One of my favourite musicals, Meet Me In St. Louis featuring the ridiculously talented Judy Garland.

Have you been wrapping gifts? Baking? Setting out all your holiday plans?
I hope so...not long now! ;)

Christmas Is For Kids

2010-12-19T01:17:00.001-05:00

I work part time with kids...and let me tell you, they are a riot! Especially around the holidays!

I like to ask them questions about school and what they like to do or music they listen to. With the holidays coming up, there are always funny stories to be heard.....
For example, I asked one kid (he's 10) if he had family coming to his house or if he was going somewhere for Christmas. He replied that his "picky grandmother" was coming. I asked if she was his dad's mom or his mom's mom. He wasn't sure, so then I said, "What do you mean by picky?"
He said in a faux British accent,"The turkey must be served at 35 degrees, not 32 degrees."
I could not resist laughing and said that is pretty picky. He then followed it up by telling me that his annoying cousins would also be coming.

Kids, they crack me up.
They definitely aren't afraid to talk.

Another student told me she'd be unable to come to her lesson this week because 'she has to help wrap presents'. I said, "oh..does it take very long?" She replied.."at my house it does!"

Check out these old clips from the kids talking about Santa on Sesame Street(probably when I was watching it).

We Need A Little Christmas...

2010-12-18T00:14:00.002-05:00

This great musical kept me up until 3 am last night...and I because I've been sharing video lately, I'm going to continue to do so up until Christmas! :)
Enjoy!
"We Need a Little Christmas" from Mame with Lucille Ball

Making That List...And Checking it Twice.

2010-12-16T00:40:00.000-05:00

I'm making good on the list I posted the other day! So many things are underway, simple things to help embrace the joy of the holidays (and less of the stress...ideally!)
Including making marshmallows....you can get the recipe here, I promise you they are yummy.

I also make daily lists and well, some things get done and some don't (for whatever reason),but I'm not stressing about it. (Not too much anyway!) Today's list had 19 'things' on it...I think I did 7 things on it. The important ones. Vacuuming can wait for a couple of days. I hate vacuuming...or rather the process of pulling out the vacuum..but that's another story.

With Christmas getting closer and now only 9 days away *eeeps*, I have bought all my presents (save for one) and am working on really enjoying the season. Which reminds me, I need to start listening to some holiday music around here. (Literally started immediately this moment!)

One of my faves...

I hope to post a bit more in the coming days (leading up to the new year..yay! 2010 was supposed to be my year, but no one got the message...so roll on 2011!) :)

7/52 :: Dating & The Zodiac

2010-12-13T15:15:00.004-05:00

I once had a friend who insisted that she only date men who were deemed compatible to her zodiac sign. As far as I know, she did this for a few years... I have no clue how her dating has since progressed, but she was adamant at the time that the stars in their astrological charts MUST be aligned for her to even consider.

She took this very seriously.

I found this a fascinating subject as I often find myself as being very 'true' to my star sign (I'm a Taurus) & I do tend to investigate the astrological signs who I am dating or interested in. Not really as a way of weeding out certain star signs, but more to gather information. I generally don't find out too much about their signs until the point where we have seen each other a few times.

I've dated (on a 'semi-serious', we're an 'item' sorta deal):

2 Aries
2 Taureans
1 Gemini
1 Libra
1 Pisces
1 Aquarius

I have complete chemistry with Aries men and we seem to get on famously, but I also find them extremely frustrating in the same breath. I don't put too much faith in astrological dating, I do find it rather interesting when people say they are true to their signs.

What's your sign & who do you have the most chemisty with baby?

6/52 :: Things to Do This December

2010-12-10T02:48:00.008-05:00

Excuse me while I borrow Andrea's idea for a list of things to do this December! (She has some fabulous ones in there too

~~Listen to~~ ~~this~~, ~~this~~ ~~and~~ ~~this.... on repeat.(The last one, while trying not to cry. It gets me every time.)~~ (completed)
~~Perform in the annual Christmas concert where I teach (this Saturday)~~ (completed)
My annual viewing of ~~White Christmas (while singing 'Sisters' at the top of my lungs)~~(completed), ~~It's A Wonderful Life~~ (completed) & Meet Me in St. Louis
~~Drink Baileys in my hot chocolate~~ (completed)
Drop off a bag of clothes/books to Goodwill
Make a fleece blanket for this little cutie
~~Bake gingerbread men~~ (completed)
~~Make homemade~~ ~~marshmallows~~ (completed)
~~Read up on things to do in NYC in January~~ (completed)
Dust off the dollhouse and do 'some' part of it
~~Burn lots of balsalm oil & candles~~ (completed)
~~Eat a candy cane (I actually don't think I've done this for years oddly enough!)~~ (completed)
~~Buy a dayplanner for 2011 *eeps* & fill in all the dates~~ (completed)
~~Photograph some people in some truly bad sweaters~~ (epic fail...wrenched my knee before the party :( )
Get started on knitting something
Believe in all things possible...
Put together a list of resolutions (which I likely won't keep for very long, so they ought to be practical)
~~Use my hot water bottle more frequently~~ (completed)
Photograph the snow with the Argus 75
Go ice skating at the Mill Pond & the Richmond Green Trail
Do some scrapbooking
~~Send out love and lots of thoughts to those I miss far away and those no longer present~~ (completed)
~~Wish people a 'Merry Christmas'~~ (completed)

Whoa Is Me...Feminine Wiles & Football

2010-12-01T14:50:00.000-05:00

I admit it....ever since I watched Down with Webster (Yay Toronto band!) perform in the opening ceremony for the Grey Cup this weekend past (the rest of the game I missed as our cable cut out for 2 hrs. Ironic? Perhaps.) I've had this song on repeat. Love it. Have a listen...

How Feminine Wiles & Football Relate:
At some point in your dating history you will meet a man. End of story. Ha!
That man will undoubtedly like SOME sort of sport...no matter what sort of man he may be.
Hell, it may be beer pong or ultimate frisbee (something a lot of kinda geeky guys I know get into (not a bad thing, just an observation))..but most likely it'll be something seen on your major network television stations.

Myself, I've dated men who were into car racing, snooker, football/soccer, hockey, fishing..but never CFL or NFL. Now don't get me wrong, most men I know will not pass up a grey cup party or superbowl, but that doesn't mean they'll spend every weekend in front of the television for every single game. That said, many will..and really...it's only a couple of hours, so what's the harm?

Appreciating what your man likes sounds so.... 1950's. But really? Is it? I mean, we hope that they'll enjoy the things we do too (or at least not roll their eyes when we discuss our sport of choice -shopping, baking, gardening...whatever it may be), so it's a bit of a tradeoff.

You really have a couple of options when it comes to using your feminine wiles and sports.

1. You can leave your man alone to really enjoy the game with friends. That means NO checking in with texts or calls to 'see how the game is,what he's doing, etc'. Because girl, that is REALLY annoying...and not cute at all. Let him do his thing & enjoy it without feeling guilty for not wanting to talk or worrying about what you are doing. He'll come around when the game is done.

2. You can learn as much as you can about the sport (without harrassing him about it during that big game..there are tons of articles on the internet that will help you with the basics and all the stats) and his favourite team/players. You may find that watching the game together might be fun...now that you actually know what is going on! Again, the less said is generally better.

3. Run with the 1950's stereotype...make some sporty snacks, wear team colours and poke your head in from time to time to see how the team is doing, but don't hover.

In other news...I just finished making a smallish pot of celery & cauliflower soup with white wine.
Maybe not hearty enough for football, but certainly okay for watching Mantracker.

5/52: A Dear Santa List....

2010-11-30T12:59:00.001-05:00

Dear Santa...

I know it's not quite December yet, but I have kind of been thinking about what I'd like for Christmas.

This year again I've been pretty good (for the most part save for a few minor incidents which lasted longer than they should have).

This year is kind of eerie as it is uncomfortably too close to how things were at the same time last year on so many levels. But enough about all that...I'll save that drama for my 'Howdy 2011' post.*LOL*

Let's get on with the dear Santa letter....

The things I really desire I don't expect you to be able to bring me, but maybe to other people...happiness for many of my friends & family who've been having a rough year overall. Health for those who have been ill and in and out of hospitals. An active retirement for my mom, success at the school for brother and his fiance, entrance into school of his choice for the other brother, and my dad to be have more patience than he currently does. (Probably not going to happen, but never hurts to ask!*LOL*)

As for me, I'd really like some real romance this year, a job I can't live without, new friends to meet and an apartment. But on the standard pat answer to the age old question of "what do you want for Christmas?" Here is my list....

Gorgeous ring from OneGarnetGirl at Etsy.

"Rock Fetish Green Amethyst Emerald Cut Ring in Argentium Sterling"

Love all of her rings, but this is by far one of my faves!! Fantastic!(Size 7.5 or 8 pls)

Mint Chocolate candle from Bath & Bodyworks

Gift card to Henry's...

am looking to buy a couple of new lenses in the new year and this will definitely allow me to do so!

Flavoured vodka always makes a great gift!

Especially because you rarely buy something as abstract as blueberry vodka unless you have a recipe you want to try out. Drink always is a good gift to give someone if you aren't too sure either!

Bailey's anyone?

This gorgeous leather with antique key wallet from UrbanHeirlooms at Etsy.

I would love it in this blood orange colour, or red or turquoise! I can't decide, they are all stunning and I'd be happy with any!

I love this vintage poster reprint of Lure of the Underground from Etsy seller ScarletBeautiful.

It's truly awesome, I just wish it was bigger. It'll go fabulously next to a print I bought in Paris!

Earl of Warwick, Vermeer, Libby Smith (styles shown)
I'd love any (or all) of these boots as well from Fluevog. *swoon* I am seriously addicted to Fluevogs and I could have put a few more in this category(I had a whole bunch of shoes selected), but I'd be completely happy with a gift certificate as I will be buying a pair in the future for sure!

Black Rapid camera strap
I'm still waiting to hear news on Gerard Butler because he certainly wasn't under my tree last year...I'll try to be patient. ;)

Dear Face...

2010-11-29T01:32:00.001-05:00

...You can stop breaking out now at any time please.
I didn't have many spots/pimples while in high school...but please don't feel the need to make up for it now.

That is all.

We Share the Awkwardness

2010-11-19T16:41:00.000-05:00

There is an awkwardness in new love...and love that is in the process of returning... or love in limbo.
I suspect this is true for any age and any gender.

There are pauses and breaks and much too much thinking...and rethinking...and worrying if this is indeed the 'right' thing. Whatever that may be.
There are moments so surreal and so lovely, you need to pinch yourself to ensure that they are in fact happening to you.
There are days when hours pass without a peep from the object of your romantic awkwardness and you question 'what is going on'...there are moments when it feels like too much time has passed.

Often, waiting for a new love or returning love is like waiting on a job offer or your favourite boots to finally go on sale. Waiting is waiting, is waiting. Simultaneous waiting.
Have I lost him/her?
Was I too forward?
Not forward enough?
Too smart, not smart enough?
Too pretty, not pretty enough?
Too sane?

This is what waiting and awkwardness is built on...varying levels of self-esteem all the same time. Building yourself up and then tearing yourself down.
When together, we giggle, pass funny jokes and glance sideways at each other awkwardly, excitedly.
Those butterflies. That awkwardness.

We have these intense and intimate encounters with perfect strangers.
Brief encounters as a smile in passing, a brushing of hands while reaching for the disposable coffee lids at Tim Hortons. A joke shared in an extra long line up at the gas station. Sometimes these encounters are more intense than with people you know. That awkwardness yet again...that connection, that shared awkwardness between us when there is no reason other than a glimmer of electricity.

...the strange thing is we keep going back for that awkwardness that marks the start of dating or of rediscovering at whatever level. Awkward...and a little bit exciting.
Go forth you ladies and use those feminine wiles.
You know who you are. ;)

Remember, Remember the 5th of November...

2010-11-06T00:30:00.000-04:00

Today was Guy Fawkes Day, which is generally celebrated with effigies, bonfires and fireworks in the UK.
Here in Canada, I celebrated with my own little bit of heat.
In the past I was not a very big Bruce Springsteen fan, but in the past 10 years or so, he's really grown on me & I am looking forward to his album The Promise which will be coming out on November 16th alongside Darkness on the Edge of Town (all the outtakes).

And well...this song really is just plain hot.
|It was originally written by Springsteen for Elvis and given to him shortly before his death and then was then passed along to the Pointer Sisters.
Bruce didn't even record it until the mid 80's himself.

To me, the best part is the anticipation...that delicious delay of time and that finger snap directly before we hear him sing "fire". That build up of the guitar riff leading to that break.
Talk about a performance!
Little bit of breaking the rules & lots of heat...
Perfect for Guy Fawkes day.

Skyway Bridge

2010-11-03T01:33:00.000-04:00

I've had this song pretty much on repeat all day.ALL. DAY. No seriously, I am going to go to bed shortly just to turn it off.
No reason as to why except that it's beautiful and haunting and Canadian (and was in the film One Week)...and has just a lovely chorus & kinda reminds me of someone.....

"I adore you,
I want to follow you.
Make a boat out of this cigarette pack,
Watch it float away and hope it comes back.
With the water
Under Skyway Bridge"

I love the addition of Greg Keelor on this song...it really makes it for me.
Anyway, that's it for me...I just felt the strong desire to share.

More to talk about tomorrow I'm sure. ;)

4/52 :: Halloween Costumes I Have Worn

2010-10-27T20:15:00.002-04:00

The funny/sad thing about all the Halloween costumes I've had is that they've definitely all been of the homemade variety...and when I say homemade, I'm not talking about having a mother who could sew (or liked Halloween really). But she was definitely creative!! I won't even go into the detail that was my brother's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle costume one year! Although, I vaguely remember having a bought costume once that was the old school flimy plastic facemask of a gal with yellow hair and a matching plastic outfit to go with. I have no clue what that was even for! But it must have been Halloween.

Must be a completely stressful time for parents, this Halloween business. Buying all that candy, stressing about what costumes to get or make and then to top it all off, taking the kids out trick or treating, which in my neck of the woods meant driving everywhere.

Okay, on with the list....

Ghost
I must have been 1 at the time. I've seen one photo, but can't seem to locate it. All I know is my face was painted white and I was wearing a sheet and obviously being carried by my parents to all the neighbours.

Old Mrs Hubbard

I carried a big work boot and a bunch of toys in a red wagon. I also wore a very itchy wool wig and glasses down at the end of my nose. I think I may have been 4.

Pocahontis
For some reason, I am equating Halloween costumes with being itchy! For good reason I should add! This is the year I wore a burlap dress..an actual grain sack and had braided black nylons to wear as a makeshift wig to wear over my hair.

Princess (1982)
(See photo above) My mom crafted a tiara from a gold pipecleaner (nevermind the pipecleaner...check out the Batman costume on my brother. bahahahahahaha. Those ears are genius!) and a dress of some sort.

Gypsy
Maybe my favourite costume ever as a kid! I got to wear a ton of makeup, a headscarf (not as itchy as previous 'wigs') and a load of my mom's jewelry! I also got to predict fortunes..that was fun.

Minnie Mouse

Apparently my brother was also a mouse. If I remember correctly, I kept trying to convince him that he was actually a rat. He was a rat....ratboy.

Cat (multiple, multiple, multiple times)

I've probably been a cat more times than I can remember. No clue why really except that it was easy, fast and as I got older, I invested some money in those freaky cats eye contacts. So, it made being a cat pretty darned easy!

Bellydancer

I believe I wore my mom's lingerie as a bellydancer. Sexy sheer lingerie of a wrap top and balloon style pants with a huge slit down each thigh..definitely a little more adult for my teen body...however I did wear a black bodysuit under it. Definitely the sexiest outfit I ever wore for Halloween as I'm a little more of the belief that in order to be true to the holiday, you should wear something scary.

Devil Woman

I believe I paired the aforementioned lingerie with a huge red cape that I borrowed from my aunt. I know for certain I wore it to a Halloween party at Christine's house.

Doll

I freckled up my face (with defined freckles that is), rosy red cheeks and little bow lips. I don't think I switched up my clothes too much though as I was just staying in. Just a little something to get into the spirit.

Vampire (many times)

I have also been a vampire MANY times (and long before Twilight)..more in line with 'Salem's Lot!

Living Dead Girl/Zombie

I've been a living dead girl a couple of times...nothing too spectacular, but a good excuse to put on a lot of makeup, which I always enjoy and always inspired my Michael Jackson's Thriller video.*L*

This year, I won't be going out...so won't dress up..but I think I need to shake up this costume thing a bit in the future! What are your plans this Halloween and what will you be dressing up as?

Resurrecting The Mix Tape Chronicles & My Love of Halloween

2010-10-27T01:28:00.000-04:00

So...in order to jump back onboard with all those projects I've neglected(ish)...I am reinstating the Mix Tape Chronicles. The challenge is back up with Sharon (although I will have to remind her)

Theme: Spooky Songs

I'm sure I've mentioned my love of Halloween on this blog before. It truly is my favourite holiday.

The scent of decaying leaves and the smoky undertone of bonfires mixed with the sweet scents of pumpkin & apple cider.

The crunching leaves underfoot and their skittering sounds as they scratch across the pavement. All of it....lovely! Fall is Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen and the Rolling Stones. Timeless, manly melancholy to the highest degree.

It's savoury bread, jack o'lanterns (obviously), seeing kids dressed in costumes and makeup sliding halfway down their faces...long before the thought of dressing as a 'sexy' something (insert occupation here).

For me, it carries memories of long drives on back country roads, stolen kisses in the crisp air, warm knit blankets added to the bed, new boots, corduroy skirts, seeing your breath in the mornings for the first time in a long time and reading books late at night.

This autumn, I'm bringing back tights, late night book reading, carving pumpkins and roasting the seeds, being in love with the leaves and filling up my iPod with a whack of oldies I haven't heard in ages.

Finally! A Completed Project! The Quilt.

2010-10-20T01:57:00.000-04:00

Not that I'm known for incomplete projects (or abandonned ones...although I have my share of those already), but I seem to have all these really great ideas which take FOREVER to be finished.

Yep. I'm a fan of the long term project.
Literally.
Go big or go home.
100 Strangers, Scrapbooking, The Joni Mitchell Project(which begat the Gordon Lightfoot Project), Building a Dollhouse, 365 Days and "The Quilt". A whole SLEW of projects that are always ongoing...but finishing up this quilt has made me realise I need to STOP these long term projects.

The funny thing with my projects is that I never really intend for them to take as long as they do...they just seem to take that long to complete for whatever reason (usually because I am picky and not sure about how I want the finished project to look like)!

My recent completion of the quilt feels like quite the accomplishment. Perhaps it's because I was collecting jeans for a few years leading up to it! The funny thing about me making a quilt is that.....I've never made a quilt before, I never took quilting lessons (my sewing is minimal at best), I never looked up how to make the quilt...I just went ahead and did it!

"The Quilt"

Okay. So it's probably not as well put together, as fancy or as proper as most quilters would desire...but I made it myself, laid it all out, selected everything and voila! I love it! A quilt that is both warm and heavy! Denim squares make up the front and light yellow sweatshirt material make up the back and the top section of the front

I even went out and bought binding to properly trim the edges and created a bow on the top corner of the quilt! Look ma, I'm a designer!*L* I finished it off with knots of red, orange and yellow in a square around the outside to keep it all together. It's smaller than my queen sized bed (more like a double I think)..but fits the outside swing perfectly..I should have finished it sooner to get more use from it!

For now, I'll use it to cozy up on the couch and just simply take pride in the fact that it's complete AND I love it. :)

3/52 :: Attractive Qualities in A Man.. (for me)

2010-10-04T22:17:00.001-04:00

I've been a tad (a lot) neglectful on my lists lately (and projects!) Gotta get back on track with the Mix Tape Chronicles & The Continental Divides!

I've been thinking a lot lately about what attracts me to a man..me specifically. There are a lot of great men out there and it's important to note that a lot of men possess some truly fabulous factors that make them desirable..but I feel the need to put the message out there with the certain aspects that I am looking for. Universe...do you hear me?

1. Genuine Smile.
Pretty obvious right? Not necessarily so...but I'm talking about the smile that connects you the moment you see each other in that 2 second pre-greeting before any words are spoken. I was going to suggest it's like when a dog sees you at the front door...we all want the same reaction! Most of the men I have dated have had this effect...both on me AND themselves (which is a huge bonus!)

2. Funny/Wonky Sense of Humour
I think because I have a bit of a wonky sense of humour, this is why I am equally attracted to men that are too! Britboy for example is/was a big Monty Python fan, which is very entertaining..especially when he breaks into the Lumberjack song! Smart humour is an incredible aphrodesiac.

3. Lovely Speaking Voice
Probably something my friends would definitely notice is that the men whose company I particularly enjoy generally have LOVELY voices. I admit I am partial to British men (especially as of late), but I have also dated men with soft, raspy, sexy timbres that make the hairs stand up on my neck..these are my type of voices. *swoon*

4. Terrific Hands
I love men's hands and forearms. I am especially attracted to men with clean fingernails and strong hands. I like short, clean nails and men that have standout veins in their forearms. Dunno why.

5. Affectionate
My last ex (the Cowboy) and the Britboy have been very affectionate out in public and it's such a nice change from other men I've dated. They enjoy holding hands, walking with their arms around me and just made me feel very safe and protected and desirable, which is always key.

6. Embraces the Little Things
Men who appreciate all the little details about life. Whether they are coffee afficiandos and know the perfect place to get a latte & really take the time to embrace the moment, whether it's that first sip or the walk there.

7. Passionate
Everyone should be passionate about something. Something they enjoy doing, going or being. Something they are excited about in general. I would like to think that being passionate about someone (ie. me) is also appreciated!!

8. Honest
I've always valued honesty as a trait and seems that I've met a lot of dishonest people and have been left wondering what happened. Perhaps not dishonest, but rather confused people. People that don't know what they want, change their minds and haven't committed to being true to themselves. The man I want to be with definitely knows what he wants.

9. Even Tempered
I hate mood swings...or at least mood swings that aren't explained. I can understand if you are mad or upset or depressed...but I don't understand putting it all out there in a 20 minute display and then not backing it up with a 'why'. That pisses me off.

10. Open to Adventure
I love men who are spontaneous, but not afraid to make plans either. If you aren't making plans for adventure, you are wasting my time.

11. Punctual & Reliable
I've not had the best of luck with either of these traits in men...and yet it seems like a basic respectful thing that people in general should attempt to be! Simple. Do what you say you are going to do. Follow through.

12. Emotionally Available & Open to A Relationship
I've learned this is a very important factor in any relationship! (That includes my own feelings on being available too). I think for a long time, I've been closed off to the idea of "being in love" because I'd been hurt...but I do believe I am open to being in love now...any maybe soon I will be. :)
But...what will be, will be...and while it's nice to be in love, it's also really great to be open to the idea of being in love too.

How to Be Alone

2010-09-15T23:00:00.001-04:00

It's true. I enjoy time by myself. Being alone does not equal being lonely and truth be told, I'm used to being alone, and sometimes I am too used to being lonely. As a single gal, we have these moments of feeling lonely it's true, but that doesn't mean I need a man to save me from it. I simply ride it out. I do enjoy my own company however! I am a great, fantastic and fun person to be around. :)
I have in the past gone to the movies by myself, sat in coffee shops by myself, gone for walks in abandonned woods by myself (that can be a little creepy), travelled overseas by myself, travelled in general by myself on my own schedule, shopped by myself, worked on projects all by myself.

I think you'll enjoy the clip. :)

At The Club

2010-09-13T02:01:00.000-04:00

I will be the first person to admit that I know VERY little about the rules of the game for most sports. I don't know if it's because my brain doesn't want to hold onto this information or what the deal is. I know I'm also probably not good at card games though for this exact same reason.

Britboy has been explaining the game of snooker to me lately what with the Canadian National Championship Qualifiers starting all up....and shockingly, it makes sense! (Possibly more than pool!)
There are still some questions I have to ask him about ties, players tapping the corner pocket'side of the table and a few other curiosities like recreating a missed shot midplay...but I'm definitely enjoying it all a little more than I thought I would!

I spent an hour or so on Tuesday watching him practice while he briefed me on how the game is played (and practiced and made jokes about the music selection) and spent Saturday with him at the club and watched his matches. He won his first match, but lost the second one only by a set.

Not to worry though, 11 more rounds of qualifiers to go over the next few months. By the end of it, I may just be an expert. ;)

i am

2010-08-30T01:32:00.000-04:00

someone who expresses their life in song lyrics
the slow and quiet of the last refrain in a decrescendo
the performer and the listener in one

the last wave to break upon the beach
the salt in a tearful goodbye
the wind pulling at strands of your hair

the quiet transition from summer to autumn
the frame that holds your photo
the hand that holds yours

the kiss of a cold breeze in the evening
the rustle of the leaves
the smell of cotton candy at the fair

the rumble of a thunderstorm
the breaking of dishes
the broken gate that swings open

the last drop of whiskey in your glass
the blanket on your bed
the promise of a new morning

the static crackle on the radio
the country song you can't turn off
the last dance of the night

the photo in your mind of what could be....
...after you know better.

NSFW ~ Cee Lo Green's New Release :: F*ck You

2010-08-27T21:49:00.001-04:00

Little bit of Friday enjoyment in case you haven't seen/heard this yet.
Cee Lo Green's (the man behind Gnarls Barkley's Crazy) new release...probably not safe for work and definitely not around children....otherwise...Enjoy!

:)

2/52 :: Jobs I Have Always Wanted

2010-08-20T13:38:00.000-04:00

I have wanted a number of careers in my lifetime.
Apparently when I was little I really wanted to be the check out girl at the IGA. I don't really recall this or even know why specifically and my parents swayed me towards really wanting to be a dentist...which in all honesty I don't think I ever wanted to be.

The job hunt has been pretty rough lately and with the news that it's not really getting any better, I've decided to revisit a list of jobs I have always wanted growing up. At the moment, my biggest focus has been on photography... so I am definitely aiming my sights in that department. But, for a laugh, let's take a look at jobs that I really did/do want (should they ever come up and someone might be reading this blog to give me a hand in one of these departments!)

1. The female version of Jacques Cousteau

Yes. I really did want to be Jacques. I imagined this marine biologist/cinematographer/photographer/ecologist life where I primarily studied sharks (ideally great whites) off the coasts of Australia, South Africa and California and filmed all the adventures one would have while studying sharks.

I read anything I could get my hands on regarding sharks and life underwater. I read about bubble nets and safety suits and breaching sharks and cage diving. My marks in high school chemistry didn't really warrant a position in science (much to the dismay of my biology teacher who still really wanted me to pursue this endeavour)..so I turned to film and went to York University under the guise that I could still take part in Cousteau-ian adventures, but I would just be the gal on the camera. Sadly, it never turned out the way I wanted it to. Whenever Shark Week comes around on the Discovery Channel, I can't help but feel a little sad.

2. Horror Movie Make-Up/Prosthetic Artist

Much like my love of sharks, I also was/am fascinated by horror films. Always have been really. Rick Baker was a huge inspiration and consequently I found myself reading everything I could about creating the perfect viscosity of fake blood, camera angles in Hitchcockian style and even considered quizzing the dentist on where I may buy huge tubs of dental mould making materials. I never did, but I am assuming that Michael Jackson's Thriller definitely played a part in my obsession with latex masks, faux contacts (I even have a couple of crazy contacts myself) and creating a bruise so realistic with basic eyeshadow on my brother it even freaked out my parents.

Other considerations in this field were: director, director of photography, set designer

3. Vacation Reviewer
Everytime I see people reviewing vacations or spas or hotels or vineyards in Australia or Chile or anywhere else that isn't here, all of a sudden feel like I am in the WRONG business. I mean, how hard is it to go on vacation and review the hotel you are staying at while testing out all the amenities? For free?
It's like a working vacation....all the time! Let me tell you, I ran into Kevin Brauch(The Thirsty Traveler) this past summer on a patio and he looked like he was having a great time! How on earth did he ever get a job to travel and drink?? Because seriously folks..THAT would be fun!
Other considerations in this field were: location researcher, television host, travel agent

4. Author
I may be a blogger, but I definitely don't have the patience to be an author...or the grammar, the ideas... or the patience (generally due to my procrastination problem!). I have considered writing for a long time (even as something to do in the dateless evenings)..but alas, not to be because I don't have the foggiest idea of what I'd even write about! I have to say though, I am pretty impressed by bloggers who have turned their passion into books. Cookbooks, crafting books, photographic essays.
Other considerations in this field were: journalist, critic, reviewer

5. Entrepreneur
Who doesn't want to come up with the latest 'IT' concept/product/social networking tool? I even took a young entrepreneurs course when I was about 19 and thinking about developing a business. Not necessarily a get rich quick sort of deal, but something that would stick around for a while. I have lots of ideas, but no real skill set to chase after it because I do lose interest in the process after a while.

6. Professional Artisan (Jewelry)
I could still learn more about silversmithing and whatnot...but feel I'm getting a bit old now to start crafting my own line of jewelry (let alone chase down celebrities to get them to wear it!) but it was always a concept and passion I kind of held onto. Definitely something I could do as a fun hobby though!
Other considerations in this field were: glassblower

...I think I'll stick with photography for now...but if anyone has a lead on a position where I can travel and take photos (especially if it's of sharks!)..please let me know :)

1/52 :: Bad Habits I Am Trying to Overcome

2010-08-16T13:34:00.000-04:00

Okay....I KNOW I can already tell you that one of my bad habits that I am trying to overcome is procrastination!

How do I know this? Simple. I promised I'd have this list up on Friday! *sigh*
So....what better to start the 52 List Project with one of the biggest ones...my list of bad habits that I am trying to overcome.

1. Procrastination

2. Buying cheap razors and therefore not shaving my legs as often as I should.(when I don't have a date or anything of that sort)

3. I am trying to get back on track with some budgeting and saving money...I feel I've fallen so far off the bandwagon with duties and events coming up that I really need to start putting money aside and seriously watching.

4. I've been really great at parring down my belongings, but I really need to kick it into full gear and get rid of a lot of stuff. Preferably by selling/donating. I just need to decide on what to get rid of.

5. Overthinking/dwelling...both generally and specifically...and unfortunately about men, work, life.(In that order)

6. I drink far too much diet coke...and without a straw. This has to change.

7. I spend far too much time on the internet or watching tv..tooo much.

8. Not culling my photos enough. I have FAR too many shots of the exact same thing, but shifted over or varied, but only very slightly.

9. I sometimes favour fast food over cooking something myself. Not entirely a bad thing and not too often, but definitely digs into the wallet issues.

10. Squinting & brow furrowing. I have developed a deep line in my forehead because of this...and yes, I do photoshop it out of most photos. (But I don't consider that a bad habit, it's just a little photobotox.)

52 Lists Project & Likes o' The Day/Week/Moment...

2010-08-12T01:55:00.000-04:00

Because I love lists in general (and projects..and any opportunity to procrastinate really) and the lists of things going on over at Hula Seventy, I've decided to start up my own 52 Lists projects. I think for me the hardest thing will be coming up with the topics of the lists....but come Friday...I promise a list. (Every Friday for a year)

Soooo... let me tell you of my latest series of enjoyable moments!

1. New shoes. Beautiful burgundy/red suede & leather shoes...with buckles, embossed suede and ridiculously sexy heels...which I will be wearing for Tricia & Clayton's wedding. The thing is, they look even better on!

2. After searching over at Courage My Love in Kensington where I bought my first giant claddagh ring (which I know I lost somewhere over in Scotland..or left at the Cowboy's place (*grrrrrr*) and not being able to find one just like it (most are very small, but I love giant pieces), I stumbled across one at a street vendor. Needless to say I was exceptionally pleased and it was the last in the size I wanted!! So I am starting anew with this one to wear and bring me some romantic luck! (That's a lot of pressure for one ring)

3. The new Arcade Fire CD "The Suburbs"...okay, with the advent of MP3s, my purchase of CDs has decreased dramatically...but occassionally something flips up onto my radar screen of something I have to just go out and get. Such was the case for this CD and let me tell you folks...it's genius! Intelligent lyrics, gorgeous lush instrumentation *yahooo Owen Pallet!!* and overall just great tunes.

"Living in the sprawl. The dead shopping malls rise like mountains beyond mountains and there's no end in sight. I need the darkness, someone please cut the light."

4. A visit with my cousin (well, first cousin once removed) Kari and her fiance Mike from Saskatchewan.
5. A rather pleasant unexpected turn of events that will/may occur next week....which I may (or may not) comment on in the near future, but there will definitely be photos! ;)
6. A photoshoot with a great family last week and hopefully leading the way to a couple more!
7. Cheese curds, green olive relish, apple butter with pumpkin, maple butter, summer sausage and maple sugar candy from St. Jacob's Market...all of it...phenomenal.
8. Pre-cleaning the house in case the wedding shower I've planned for this weekend needs to move indoors.
9. A collection of DVDs yet to be seen...
10.Rediscovering the fact that I do actually suit black tresses...and isn't as snow white-ish as in the past.
11.Thunderstorms....
12.Being kissed by someone who I really want to be kissed by.
13.The fact that my heirloom tomato plant is still going strong!
14.A new hula hoop to use...
15.A new grouping of job postings I need to apply to...

Wow...a lot to be liking! :)

Mix Tape Chronicles #9 :: In Love with the Lyrics

2010-08-05T12:13:00.000-04:00

In Love with the Lyrics

The Mariner's Revenge Song ~ The Decemberists

"We are two mariners

Our ships' sole survivors
In this belly of a whale
It's ribs our ceiling beams
It's guts our carpeting
I guess we have some time to kill
You may not remember me
I was a child of three
And you, a lad of eighteen
But I remember you
And I will relate to you
How our histories interweave..."

.....And thus begins the most wonderful and ironic songs of revenge!

Closer to Fine ~ The Indigo Girls

"I'm trying to tell you something 'bout my life

Maybe give me insight between black & white

And the best thing you've ever done for me

if to help me take my life less seriously,

it's only life afterall"

...sometimes we all need a reminder not to take things so seriously.

Hiding My Heart Away ~ Brandi Carlile

"And I wish I could lay down beside you

When the day is done
And wake up to your face under the morning sun.."

...simple and true.

Alcohol ~ The Barenaked Ladies

"Forget the cafe latte, Screw the raspberry ice tea,

A Malibu and Coke for you, a G&T for me."

...I just always dug these lyrics..no clue as to why exactly.

True Patriot Love ~ Joel Plaskett

"We all go out

Then we all come home

But I fall asleep with the TV on

At 3 AM they play 'Oh Canada'

True patriot love and la la la la la."

...the CBC used to sign off for the evening by playing the national anthem. This song also touches on Canadian/American relations

I Make the Dough, You Get the Glory ~ Kathleen Edwards

"I'm sure its been said said in the finer print

you make me look legitimate.

Heavy rotation on the CBC,

Whatever the hell that really means"

...I adore this song and all the comparisons made between the singer and who can only assume is her bandmate (and husband)

Ashes & Wine ~ A Fine Frenzy

"Don't know if our fate's already sealed

This day's a spinning circus on a wheel

I'm ill with the thought of your kiss

Coffee laced intoxicating on her lips

Shut it out

I've got no claim on you know

I'm not allowed to wear your freedom down."

...just a beautifully sad song really about the end of a relationship.

Godspeed (Sweet Dreams) ~ The Dixie Chicks

"Godspeed, little man

Sweet dreams, little man

Oh my love will fly to you each night on angels wings
Godspeed
Sweet dreams"

...this song is especially beautiful because it was written by singer/songwriter Radney Foster who had gone through a divorce with his wife and was unable to be with his little boy (age 5) as his wife was remarrying and moving to France with her new husband, so he wrote and recorded this song so his son could play it everynight as a goodnight lullaby reminder that his dad loved him even though he couldn't be there.

Fix You ~ Coldplay

"When you try your best but you don't succeed

When you get what you want but not what you need
When you feel so tired but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse"

...written by Chris Martin for his wife Gwyneth Paltrow

Dear Mr. President ~ Pink (featuring the Indigo Girls)

"How do you sleep while the rest of us cry?

How do you dream when a mother has no chance to say goodbye?
How do you walk with your head held high?
Can you even look me in the eye?"

...just very very poignant for the time when it came out. Not to mention, simply beautiful and haunting melody.

Hurt Feelings ~ Flight of the Conchords

Some people say that rappers don’t have feelings

We have feelings. (We have feelings)
Some people say that we are not rappers. (We’re rappers.)
That hurts our feelings.
(Hurts our feelings when you say we’re not rappers.)
Some people say that rappers are invincible
We’re vincible. (We’re vincible.)

....the second season rap song by the Flight of the Conchords Rhymnocerous and Hiphopopotamus. 'Nuff said.

You can listen to Sharon's mix here.

And you can listen to mine here.

Changes in Attitude...

2010-07-28T17:59:00.000-04:00

Back in the beginning of summer, I was pretty adamant that I'd
a. blog on a more regular basis
b. be outside a whole lot more
c. just try to keep the chill vibe I've got going on since January, in which I promised myself to be easier on both myself and others, more relaxed in general and maybe even a little less stubborn *bahahahahahahahahahahaha* Okay, maybe not the last part! (But seriously, even my mother noticed a big change this past summer in my attitude.)

I've tried to apply this new attitude shift to everything actually. From job hunting (which is still a complete nightmare most days) to my building up my own business (photography, in case I hadn't mentioned it) and just feeling overall MUCH more happy and not stressing about things out of my control.

Every once in a while, something raises out of the muck to latch onto my leg, but I've been pretty good at shaking it off. Negative attitudes, and if it's related to something I can do something about, I go ahead and make the change. Tossed/Donated/Sold out all the clothes and shoes and 'stuff' I just didn't want/need or had any desire to keep in my closet in the hopes I'd fit into them.

That said, I've lost about 15 lbs this summer (which isn't a lot..and the scale seems to be a bit stuck)..but I have been eating MUCH better than I have in years and the Monsoon dresses I did keep are a bit snug, but they'll fit.(I've kept them in my closet)

The weight part of my life has always been a struggle.
I live in a family that loves to cook...and are excellent at it!
But...they also make a lot of food.
I am also very inactive most days...although on the days I am in the city just walking around or doing something I am enjoying activitywise, good luck getting me to stop or slow down! I still find it hard to find something I love doing on a daily basis...and honestly it's most likely because I hate doing the same thing on a daily basis to begin with!

Buying a new car this summer has also helped me from feeling trapped and unable to get out of both the house and a semi-permanent funk. (Thanks Sharon for really knocking it back to what was making me so unhappy about the direction my life was going...or well, staying as the case was) I was not happy about putting out that money (that I had been saving to relocate back to the UK)...but I was not happy just waiting it out until I could afford that either.

I believe Sharon and I called it self-preservation...and it really was!

For the rest of the summer I plan on doing a couple of things.
a. getting outside more in general (even if it means blogging outdoors)...I mean, we have the perfect space for it, the problem has been it's so stifling hot that I could barely breathe without sweating...and seriously, I hate sweating!
b. get back into that carefree attitude. In fact, yesterday (while there was a bit of drama around the Britboy scenario..which I will touch on in another post) all of a sudden, I had a burst of happiness, a slap in the face of joy if you will. I made the decision to really just live in the moment of knowing that things turn out the way they do for whatever reason..and although I can guide it as much as I can...sometimes things just happen. The most amazing part was that I felt phenomenally happy about a career in photography and a real boost of confidence about my skills and an overall feeling that things were going to happen...but were just taking time until I was ready...and I understood that maybe the universe was finally telling me I was ready.

And really? I think I am.
....Click.Capture will likely be going live this week...so keep an eye out :)

I've Been A Bad Blogger...

2010-07-06T21:51:00.000-04:00

Hey hey hey! Sorry guys. I've been a bad blogger lately.
But not without reason I assure you!

I would like to partially blame the summer and the nice weather...actually, I think I just may.
Summer. Pssshhhhaw. You did this to me!

Okay, not entirely true. So let me fill you in on what has been going down....

A. I bought a car. (FINALLY)...and this had freed me up quite a bit to do what I need/want to do.
B. I have been out on a few dates with the rather lovely Britboy/Snooker'd ..who will now only be referred to as Britboy. Things seem to be going rather well despite a few hiccups. I've learned my lesson about talking about things to friends though, so I will try to retain an air of mystery when it comes to men and friends.
C. I have a wedding photography course coming up in a couple of weeks and a train journey to Ottawa. Must save as much money as I can....
D. I've donated a portrait sitting to the Lab Cab Festival in Toronto in September..must mail them the gift certificate and flyer I've created! *eeps*
E. I've started working on a photography website and building up my business.
F. I need to replace the rather bizarro polyester lining on the dress I'm going to wear to Tricia & Clayton's wedding with something more sturdy/stiff like taffeta to make it a little more '50's bell skirt.
G. Trying to meet up with family and friends over the summer is keeping me busy, but I'm enjoying it!
H. Still searching for fulltime work IN MY FIELD. (before anyone thinks they better start telling me what to do again or what they think I should do. Really...people need to mind their own business!)

Whew. I will do better though.. I promise! :)

Mix Tape Chronicles #8 :: Football Fever

2010-06-23T14:14:00.001-04:00

Football Fever

Volvo Driving Soccer Mom ~ Everclear
Waka Waka (This Time For Africa) ~ Shakira
Football Crazy ~ World Cup Willies
La Copa de Vida ~ Ricky Martin
Give Us A Goal ~ Slade
Don't Come Home Too Soon ~ Del Amitri (ScotCon)
Represent ~ Weezer
Waving Flag ~ K'naan feat David Bisbal (CanCon)
Sing it For England ~ Young Stanley
We are the Champions ~ Queen

You can listen to my mix here.
And Sharon's mix here.

Next Theme: Favourite Lyrics....

Mix Tape Chronicles #7 :: Dance Wherever You Are

2010-06-15T13:18:00.000-04:00

Dance Wherever You Are

Dancing Cheek to Cheek ~ Louis Armstrong & Ella Fitzgerald
Just Dance ~ Lady Gaga
Do You Love Me? ~ The Contours
Dancing with Myself ~ The Donnas
Peppermint Twist ~ Joey Dee & The Starliters
Twist & Shout ~ The Isley Brothers
The Ketchup Song ~ Las Ketchup
Into the Groove ~ Madonna
Let's Dance ~ David Bowie
Dance to the Music ~ Sly & The Family Stone

You can listen to my mix here.
You can listen to Sharon's mix here.

Next Theme : World Cup

Mix Tape Chronicles #6:: Ode to a Girl

2010-06-15T13:07:00.000-04:00

Ode To A Girl

Beth ~ Kiss
Amanda ~ Boston
Valerie ~ Amy Winehouse
Carrie Ann ~ The Hollies
Carolina ~ MWard
Jane ~ Barenaked Ladies
Michelle ~ The Beatles
Ruby Tuesday ~ The Rolling Stones
Wendy ~ The Beach Boys
Mandy ~ Barry Manilow

You can listen to my mix here.
You can listen to Sharon's mix here.

Next Theme: Dancing

Flowers & Keeping Busy

2010-06-02T01:42:00.000-04:00

This week is all about getting the garden in and finishing up the planters around the house.
It's pretty crazy because it feels sooo late in the game, but the May long weekend is generally the mark of safety from frost and bad weather that we have had in the past.

I've planted some lime basil, parsley, cilantro, summer savoury, some sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes and heirloom tomatoes. (Which I am ridiculously excited about as I never seem to see any normally at the garden centre and this one was sitting all by it's lonesome...with a really hardy stalk and lots of flowers! )

I've also spied a couple of baby squirrels...which may be the cutest things ever! Especially because their balance and sense of perspective is still pretty off as they cling perilously to skinny branches not terribly far from the ground.

I've been adding some great new blogs to my blogroll which I'll be talking about real soon!
In the meantime, I've...

FINALLY finished my 52 week project over at Flickr
Managed to hang the artwork I've had lying around forever
Eaten lots of Inglehoffer Creamy Dill Mustard on anything that will stand still
Been waiting impatiently for the mail.... :)

Leaving the Nest

2010-05-31T00:07:00.000-04:00

I've been keeping a close eye on the robin's nest in the tree in our front yard. The robins generally build near the house, but this is the first time they've been at eye level, so I've been able to peek in on the progress of from egg to baby robin. (Not to mention the new lens stretches a decent distance.*L*) But today the 4 little birds left the nest....I don't know how they did it, and I'm kind of sad to see them go, but I hope the little fledgelings made it okay...wherever they may be.

Mom comes back to feed the hungry babies

Getting kinda crowded in here!

Vanishing History & Urban Exploration

2010-05-26T23:48:00.001-04:00

Camp 30 (formerly the Pine Ridge Boys Training School) is considered to be the only remaining German Prisoner of War camp in Canada.

It was Camp 30 that became home to 880 WWII German officers (generally commanders) sent to Canada from Britain in order to put some distance between them and the war in Europe. Some famous PoWs included Otto Kretschmer & Wolfgang Heyda (U-boat commanders)..who were part of Operation Kiebitz

PoWs at Camp 30 have claimed that being there was 'paradise'..according to one Luftwaft pilot. They had movie nights, discussions from University of Toronto lecturers, access to an indoor swimming pool and gym, music concerts as well as occassional leave with a promise to return.

In October 1942, the Battle of Bowmanville broke out due to the Canadian military demanding to shackle 100 prisoners at the camp. They asked for volunteers, but there was no compliance...so the only option was to shackle them by force in retaliation to Germany's new Commando Order.

German officers arming themselves with sticks, iron bars and other makeshift weapons and took over the cafeteria for 3 days until 100 Canadian soldiers were called in from another base and together with the CDN officers at the camp put aside their guns and stormed the mess hall using only baseball bats and hockey sticks so that the two sides were evenly matched.

Eventually the Canadians brought in high pressure water hoses and the battle was brought to an end after several hours of brawling and the German officers surrendered peacefully.

After the war, the prisoners were released and the camp went on to become numerous educational facilities. The last one being Darul Uloom, an Islamic University that left the property in 2008.

Since then, there has been a fire in 2 of the buildings and vandals have definitely made their mark. The property was sold to a developer, but the immediate grounds in which Camp 30 sits has now been designated as a historic site. As of yet will become of Camp 30, no one knows.

Please note: Clarington County is having a doors open day on June 6th, 2010 and there will be admittance to Camp 30 (exteriors only)...so enjoy that opportunity to speak more to the historical society about the plans for Camp 30 and the grounds/buildings/history.

Jen (from Flickr) and I headed out to capture the essence of the buildings and photograph what we could before it was time to leave or before we were busted by security. We actually were stopped by security and shared a lot of info about what we knew of Camp 30 and they were actually pretty shocked. They then hung out and chatted with us while we took photos and let us continue to wander around while they went off to check out other buildings.

Mix Tape Chronicles #5 :: Green With Envy

2010-05-26T11:41:00.002-04:00

Green With Envy

The Boy is Mine ~ Brandy & Monica
Jealous Guy ~ John Lennon
Burning in Love ~ Honeymoon Suite (CanCon Submission! *LOL*)
Crazy ~ Ray Lamontagne (Gnarls Barkley cover)
Mercedes Benz~ Janis Joplin
Bust Your Windows ~ Jazmine Sullivan
Jesse's Girl ~ Rick Springfield
Some Guys Have All the Luck ~ Rod Stewart
You Belong with Me ~ Taylor Swift
The Girl is Mine ~ Michael Jackson & Paul McCartney

You can listen to my mix here.
You can listen to Sharon's mix here.

Next Theme:: One word song titles featuring female names.(edit: you can have 3 songs that are two words max)

Flickr Meet-Up

2010-05-23T01:44:00.000-04:00

I have another Flickr meet-up this week with Jen...but this time, rather than a nature shoot (like the one seen here at the Mill Pond, we're going on a bit of an urban explorer type deal in Bowmanville! I'll fill you in later this week about that.

Don't Mind The Construction...

2010-05-22T14:21:00.000-04:00

I'm not gonna lie guys...it's a mess around here in more ways than one.
In the midst of trying to switch up the look for Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend, I decided..HEY! Why not just revamp everything, add all the awesome blogs I was going to tell you all about and then distract myself by making iced coffee, setting up some photoshoots, eating jam, thinking about boys, avoiding the sweltering heat, hunting for jobs, buying pretty dresses.

Yep. I am that girl. The multitasker. However, I am also a procrastinator...so you know that makes me a girl who holds off on doing anything while trying to do lots more things in the meantime! *ack*

This week, I will try to get it all down...and tell you about everything I've been up to. I've also decided that I am going to make an effort to make my posts maybe a little more picture heavy than text.

So please don't mind the construction around here as I get you all in your proper places...and if you have a blog...please tell me about it as I'm looking for some new blogs to read! :)

Banksy and the Like

2010-05-18T11:52:00.001-04:00

I was like a woman obsessed last week.

Completely obsessed.

Banksy Obsessed.

Have I made that point yet?

Obsessed.

I Flickr'd and Tweeted and scoured Googled all last week for any signs that I might find the locations of the 6 Banksys (minus one on a fallen tree, which had to have been removed the following morning) that dotted the Toronto landscape. The internet was a buzz with the locations or being secretive about them, whether or not they were actual Banksy pieces (his publicist later confirmed he had been in town in conjunction with the release of the documentary about him called 'Exit Through The Gift Shop' (which I still have yet to see).

I finally befriended someone whom I had given a location to and he returned the favour. We chatted all weekend and throughout the week about our joy at seeing these pieces (he was fortunate to see and photograph them all) and eventual disappointment when they were becoming vandalised.

Banksy is a prolific British graffiti artist with a talent for stencil work. There is a mixed feeling about Banksy's work. Is it considered vandalism? Or art? Does it depend on location, scale or content? Banksy's work generally involves commentary on cultural, social and political aspects of society.

Due to the nature of Banksy's work, he/she/them are never witnessed, never take credit for the work (only admitting to creating 'works' in the city via a publicist) and remains a complete mystery due to the illegality of creating these works. He has sold canvases however that bring in over $525,000.

Banksy's work looks absolutely nothing like your average graffiti artists or taggers work. It is elegant, satirical and generally looks more like art than graffiti. To see the full Banksy pieces in Toronto(his first pieces in Canada) and subsequent (sad) destruction and removal of pieces, please see Martinho's Flickr set.

I was fortunate to be able to get into the city before my date/meet-up on Friday to see the three remaining pieces (although one had been added to...the middle photo's original Banksy featured only the Cop & the pink balloon dog).

I guess removal, destruction and re-graffiti-izing is part of the nature of street art, but this city for a while was high on the hunt for the elusive Banksy pieces that he had graced the walls of our city for at least one weekend.

Mix Tape Chronicles : Episode 4 :: Travel

2010-05-17T14:39:00.000-04:00

By now, you are most definitely aware of the mix tape chronicles that Sharon and I run on our respective blogs. Last week was no different as we tackled the theme of Travel (and anything and all it could entail). Because it was my selection, I had a bit of an idea as to the way I wanted my playlist to play out as a veritable vacation in fine old school fashion.

There were soooooo many songs left off the list and I'm genuinely surprised that Sharon and I only managed to repeat one song(!), but I hope we revisit somewhere in the future in some form.

So here we are...

The Travelled Road

go on....have a listen :)

King of the Road ~ Roger Miller
Viva Las Vegas ~ Elvis Presley
London Calling ~ The Clash
Kingston Town ~ UB40
Walking in Memphis ~ Marc Cohn
Point Me in the Direction of Albuquerque ~ The Partridge Family
Down in Mexico ~ The Coasters
Oslo in the Summertime ~ Of Montreal
** I've Been Everywhere ~ Johnny Cash
Henry the Van ~ Danny and the Champions of the World (Singing about Scotland...you knew this had to be included )
Space Oddity ~ The Langley School of Music

You can find my mix here.
You can find Sharon's mix here.
** Was the only duplicate we had

Next Theme: Jealousy (and oh man is this gonna be tough!)

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes & Meet Ups VS Dates

2010-05-07T13:54:00.000-04:00

...over at Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend this weekend...new look, links and an entry even. I think.

In other news...my friend Tracy had her little baby boy on May 5th. Yahooo! I look forward to photographing the little guy when they come home from the hospital. :)

Not much has really been going on here...although I have been having ridiculous dreams lately about men from my past! Crazy I know! But it has definitely inspired me to write a couple more 'Crush Stories'. ;)

I've decided to pull the plug on Snooker'd *British Snooker Guy* for a few reasons really...but such is life. It wouldn't surprise me though if he 'mysteriously' showed up in this blog later on, but I'm not counting on it. *shrugs*

BC Bound and I did speak about getting together, but again, other commitments always seem to appear and then his work inevitably leads him north before we actually cement plans. So that is something not to anticipate either. *shrugs*

This past week though, someone from my past (as a friend, not relationship-y past) has kind of come onto the radar...and was suggested by a friend of his oddly enough. Now I need a nickname for him. I'll have to figure that out after our 'meet up' and will fill you in more. I kind of like how this has come about, but I don't know if I can do the friend to date thing. I can be a friend, I can be a romantic interest...but can I do both?? I had placed him in the 'friend' basket. He's probably thinking the same thing.*LOL*

Meet-ups vs Dates.

The way I see it is that there are two very distinct categories of first meetings/outings/whatnots with men.

Meet Ups - when you are sussing someone out and there is little to no information that you are actually interested in this person. Generally, these are of the internet variety..online dating in my opinion. A very limitted amount of time and money to be spent on these meetings in order to determine a possible first date. Meet-ups can become dates if time and flirtiness exudes and the comfort level is there...but never the other way around.

Dates - definite plans, he generally pays (not sexist, but true!), and everyone is a little bit on a romantically-hopeful high. Hopeful, best behaviour, a little bit flirty and drinks/dinner/movie are generally in order. Usually this happens after an established romantic attraction is present...generally NOT of the online dating variety, but rather someone you know or have had previous meet-ups with.

So that wraps up another week.
I promise to blog a bit more frequently next week.

The Excitement of Dating

2010-05-01T16:19:00.001-04:00

I admit, Sharon from I Was Promised Glamour had me COMPLETELY stumped on this mix.
For over two weeks. I think it may have been the theme that completely threw me off.

But I have to say that as I am writing this I am listening to her mix...and O.M.G...you do need to go and have a listen to her mix, it's brilliant and totally fitting!

We alternate challenges and Sharon's came at the perfect time..just as I was anticipating a second date.
Well, that second date has yet to happen (but we are still in talks...this does not bode well)...so maybe that's what really delayed me. A little lack of inspiration? Quite possibly (most definitely).

Sorry Sharon! Anyway, I have completed it and I think you should all go listen to it.
Rather than the excitement of dating, I modified it slightly to the progression of dating told in 10 songs.
Enjoy!

The Progression of Dating

Santa Monica ~ Everclear
"I am still living with your ghost, lonely and dreaming of the west coast." ...is the start of Everclear's (pretty much only) hit. But man, is it good..and so true..always thinking about that last relationship before heading into something new.

I've Just Seen A Face ~ Jim Sturgess
Rather than use the Beatles version of this song, I chose Jim Sturgess' version from the Across the Universe Soundtrack generally because there's a more excited rush and drive that pushes the song faster and forward which is exactly what happens when you've just seen a face.

New in Town ~Little Boots
"I'm gonna take you out tonight, I'm gonna make you feel alright. I don't have a lot of money, but we'll be fine. I don't have much money, but I can show you a good time." ...dating in a nutshell.

Do You Think I'm Sexy? ~ Rod Stewart
A few drinks, a few dances...this question or thought will definitely come up!

Is She Really Going Out with Him? ~ Joe Jackson
At this point in your new blossoming romance...it's pretty certain that one of your old loves, flings, ex-bf/gf will reappear and make you question everything you knew or believed to be true of relationships in general.

Bizarre Love Triangle ~ New Order
"every day my confusion grows...can we be ourselves like we were yesterday?" Conflict abounds...and decisions to be made. Can this work out to be a proper relationship or is there something else around the corner?

Modern Love ~ David Bowie
"I know when to go out,I know when to stay in." Really...who doesn't love David Bowie? And what is all this stuff about modern love...never gonna fall for modern love.

Baby ~Justin Bieber feat. Ludacris
Oh yeah, I went there...technically not CanCon, but I am going to count it as the J.Bieb is Canadian.
"Are we an item? Girl quit playin'. We're just friends? What are you saying?" Poor Biebs...but don't worry, there are lots of fish in the sea...and what are you..15?

Lingering Still ~ She & Him
"....because he's never gonna know me if he doesn't want to just shake my hand. ...and I saw you lingering still." Maybe there's someone else over on the sidelines just waiting who has loved you a long time.....or......

Haven't Met You Yet ~ Michael Buble
(CanCon submission...you knew that was going to be in here somewhere! :D )
...maybe there's someone else who is just that perfect fit for you....and keep in mind they are out there, so the process begins anew.

My Mix
Sharon's Mix

New Theme: Songs About Travelling (I think we may have a couple of matching songs..we shall find out)

Simplicity

2010-04-22T01:21:00.000-04:00

One of my absolutely favourite things about spring are wild violets.

I've loved them since I was a kid and frequently rank them in the top five of my favourite scents. They have a heady smell for being so tiny and are found scattered under the trees in our backyard...and only for about a week...so you need to collect them as you find them!

Today was simple and I was thankful for these violets (and this tiny jam jar that I brought back from Scotland and was sitting in the cupboard begging to be used).

What were you thankful for today?

If I Come To Your House :: Kim & Lindsay

2010-04-18T19:54:00.002-04:00

If I come to your house.....

I may or may not take photos depending on a variety of factors...

I may love the way the light comes in through your front door.

I may fall in love with your awesomely cool old postoffice mailbox shelving that now moonlights as your wine rack. (I may also plot ways of sneaking it out of your house..possibly piece by piece and wonder if you'd notice.)

I may insist that my mini Diana looks best on your coffee table with a pottery mug in the same shade of blues and browns that remind me of cowboys and denim. (Oh, I will insist. In fact, so many things would look great here!)

I may fall in lust with your wood floors. (Just sayin')

I may think that the quilt hanging above my bed is the sunniest thing ever and ponder how long it took to cut all those tiny triangles, and where the fabric all came from... and whether or not they used to be dresses from long ago.

I may take a photo of your family pet..mainly for my own amusement and less for theirs.

I may have to remind you later where you left the wig for your costume...but most likely not.

Thanks Kim & Lindsay (and Duncan) for a great weekend and fantastic company.

I may have to come back again soon...no, I will have to.

Oh Yes...Red Velvet Cake

2010-04-16T14:59:00.000-04:00

But only a tiny piece...as it will be all gone by the time you wake up in the morning.

Recipe over at Jamie Oliver is Not My Boyfriend.

The 144 Parasol Project

2010-04-14T15:44:00.007-04:00

Well, I was reviewing my list of 35 things to do before I turn 36 *gasp* and I don't think I'll make it through quite a few things on the list (sad to say) and I'm okay with that.

What I mean by that is that I have less than a month to meet and marry Gerard Butler.

Probably not going to happen.
Thanks Universe.

However, what I can do is start my #34 task of 'Create Something Amazing'..and when I was cleaning out my closet, I pulled out a small box of inspiration in the form of those little drink parasols. 144 of them. (Don't even ask why they were in my closet, but I'm guessing it's because I was thinking of having a party at some point? Either that or drinking A LOT.)

Inspiration struck.
The need to purge also struck.
Needing to check something off 'the List' before I have to make a new one struck.

So here's what I am proposing.... a little love in the form of what I am calling the 144 Parasol Project.

The 144 Parasol Project will primarily be a photography-based project, but I am more than happy for you to incorporate it into ANY creative avenue...provided you can photograph how you use the parasol and add it to the 144 Parasol Project Flickr group I am creating. (Invitation only..so if you are interested, just let me know!)

So how it will work is that you'll email me with your contact info and I will mail you out a number of parasols...anywhere from 1-3 parasols and what you choose to do with them is allllll up to you! I know there are a bunch of creative souls out there and I would love to see what you do with these little umbrellas...and if you are drinking with them..then I want photos AND recipes! :)

However, joining the project will require you to actually complete the task and add your photo to the gallery by a specific date. Pretty simple! :)

The Look #1: Sunday Afternoon Picnic in the Park

2010-04-11T19:06:00.004-04:00

He may not be Mr. Right, but you never know so early in the game! A first date picnic in the park is simple, fun and completely romantic. If he's bringing the food, definitely bring a bottle of wine (and don't forget the opener!) and your iPod and some mini speakers just to set the mood!

Don't forget some sunglasses, maybe a soccer ball or frisbee and some great chat for your date. No matter what, you'll at least look great if you decide to flirt with the ice cream truck man instead by following this look.

What You'll Need To Create This Look:

Maybelline Colour Pearls Duo in Navy Narcissist
Maybelline Charcoal colour Gel Eyeliner
Maybelline XXL Pro Mascara in Curl Formula
Maybelline Colour Plush Pallet in Spirited Seas

Steps:

Swirl a rounded eyeshadow brush over the swirled pigmented side of the Maybelline Duo Navy Narcissist. Tap to remove any excess shadow and cover your entire lid. Repeat until lid is covered, this will act as a base for the rest of the shadow.
Swirl the rounded eyeshadow brush over the navy side of the duo. Tap to remove excess. In the crease of your eye (the area between your eye and your eye socket)..run the navy shadow only in this crease. Repeat until there is obvious shading.
Grab the Spirited Seas pallet. For this look you will be using the two colours on the left hand side of the pallet.
Take the light blue shade and gently use the applicator to line along your eyelashes and partway up your eyelid. Also, brush some of this blue above the crease and the darker shadow. Take the sandy champagne colour and rub some just under the arch in your eyebrow and in the inner corners of your eye...acting as a highlighter.
Dab your liner brush in the charcoal liner. Black can sometimes be too dramatic for daytime wear and really, we don't want to scare the poor man off!
Get as close as possible to your lashes while lining and try to fill in the little spaces between your lashes. The purpose being to create more definition and shape. Start in the centre of your eyelid (closest to the lashline) and drag the liner toward the outer corner. Repeat if necessary.
Mascara. Let me say one thing. If you are going to use ANY sort of makeup for a date(or work or a party or a visit to the dentist or....) then definitely make it mascara! It definitely highlights your eyes and defines and instantly adds a touch of drama and class to any look. So, this XXL Pro mascara in 'curl formula' is a two step process that I simplified by only using the mascara part and not the lengthening/curling portion. Instead I curled my lashes with an eyelash curler and used the mascara formula wiggled back and forth across the base of my lashes and then pulled out to the tips. I did this because I didn't want my lashes to be too dramatic, but to have some definition.
The final look...add a wee bit of bronzer and some neutral lipstick. Perfect and definitely not overdone.

Perfect look for that Sunday afternoon picnic in the park...and maybe that perfect man...only time will tell. *winks*

Maybelline EyeStudio & Matchstick

2010-04-11T18:24:00.006-04:00

Hey hey...welcome to a new feature on feminine wiles & urban survival 101!

Makeup application specifically themed towards dates, drinks and types of men.

Oh yes, I am going there!

Maybelline and Matchstick have teamed up with bloggers to get them to create 'looks' based around Maybelline's new line of makeup: EyeStudio.

I was fortunate enough to be chosen to receive the entire EyeStudio line to create these looks and well, because this blog is all about life and dating and men and shopping...what better way than to create specific looks that revolve around all those things that make life enjoyable! :)

Here's a glimpse of what arrived in the mail for me last week!

Pretty stoked.

4 Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliners & liner brushes, 4 XXL Pro Mascaras, 10 DazzlingColour Pearls Marbellized Duo Eyeshadows, 12 Colour Plush Ready-to-Wear Palettes and an awesome case to house it all.

Not to mention that after trying some this new collection (which is super awesome for a variety of reasons..all of which will be mentioned in future posts) there are some fanastic products that I will totally be recommending and some pretty fun looks that you can recreate! :)

This is all a part of a contest as well over at DaretoInspire.ca and you can vote on my looks (please do!) over on Maybelline New York's Facebook page for a chance to win one of these kits for yourself!

Loving This Weather...

2010-04-08T00:25:00.004-04:00

Okay, so today was rainy...but other than that, the long weekend looked exactly like these images. Sunny, warm, beautiful. I could not ask for more and yet even though we went to the zoo and I took my camera, I really didn't shoot too much.

Just a lack of inspiration lately...but flirty texts between Snooker'd (British Snooker Guy) and I was nice...but we just can't seem to find a time to meet up again..lots of reasons I think. Shame really because we really hit it off (according to him!) and I actually do want to see him again. (A rarity!)

He'll call when he really wants to see me after all the stuff in his life is more settled I guess. I'm leaving the balls on the table and we'll see what transpires.

I've also had a lot of fun in the city lately! I've been downtown about once/twice a week in the last 3 weeks and have noticed an unusually higher percentage of men! I really need to start heading into the city more. That's the problem with going into the city infrequently as I try to see a few people at a time and then always feel like I am cheating them out of time.

I had a great meetup with bloggers AP and Ginger last night as we hit the launch of Jessica Biffi's line at Addition Elle. Some great eats (including these amazing salted caramel truffle pop things..which I am going to try and recreate!)and drinks and fabulous company of the gals! I walked out with a new jacket (promptly throwing out my old one last night) and belt and the girls picked up a dress and a couple of tops. Ahhh fashion. Because of this shopping though, I am putting myself on a shopping ban for at least the next month.

Good thing the GST cheques came in!

The Post Where I Bitch About the Stuff I Have...And Spring Cleaning

2010-04-07T12:54:00.005-04:00

I have too much crap.
I have spent good money on things that I do not use/need/no longer want.

The good news is that I have learned that saving money to get the things I really desire is paramount for placeholder 'things'. 'Bout time right? This past year I have said 'no' to countless pieces and parts of things/stuff that I wasn't absolutely, 100% in love with. That said, I still manage to accumulate things, but I'm quick to share them, pass them along or remake them.

When I went to Scotland to live for two years, I had a challenge.
I had to relocate ONLY 80 pounds of whatever I deemed most valuable to me that I had to have while there. 80 pounds. 80 pounds crammed into a lightweight hot pink suitcase that I grew to love. 80 pounds to also return back to Canada with.

80 pounds in the grand scheme of things...is nothing.

So, I picked things that I absolutely LOVED....or things I knew would run out (deodorant, toothpaste, Kraft dinner) or that I'd be okay with throwing out at the end of the stay(old jeans, tshirts, socks, underwear) or even replacing.

Very tough decisions.

Coming home, I immediately immersed myself in all the 'stuff' that I had here.
I was content with my stuff, but also felt very overwhelmed by the amount of it all. Completely overwhelmed...and almost angry to have spent so much money on things that I really didn't need or want, but apparently wanted to need.

I set about getting rid of things. Namely clothes, books, shoes, paperwork that had been piling up, blank paper that I donated to the music school, some CDs as well as VHS and cassette tapes.

It just wasn't enough...I still have more 'stuff' to manage/use/giveaway/sell.

Things I need to get rid of....

I need to use all of my Scrapbooking stuff to finish off the albums I have started and not yet finished because after this, I am switching over to digitally printed books like the ones I've printed with Blurb.
I need to sell of my guitar...I'm not using it and it should go to someone who can and donate all my music books to the school (or sell on eBay)
I need to sell my keyboard...again, not using it and won't.
I need to use all my crafty-stuff or sell it off in lots. Beads/Fimo/random pieces of things.
I need to clear out my shoes (this part pains me)..as there are a lot that I never wear anymore and to be frank, a lot of them were cheap anyway and not really an investment in good footwear.
I still have my prom dresses/bridesmaid dresses in my closet, which really are taking up space that I need to send out to a consignment shop or sell on eBay.
I need to use all the lovely stationary and such that I've been hoarding forever. (I started doing this a while ago, so that's a good thing!)
Half of my closet is filled with kitchen supplies for moving! I desperately want to keep this stuff as I actually love it and know how useful it will be..but I guess it depends on where I end up.
I need to do something with my CD collection...either hang it or start selling off CDs as I've digitized most of it.

The other things I need to do are get better organized. Gah. I'm not too bad at this, but there is still a lot I could work on. (ie. properly organizing/storing all my seasonal clothes and bags plus finding a new way to store my jewelry and finding a place for all my camera stuff a) and use all the stuff/freebies I have gathered before buying anything new. I've been pretty good about this though, so that's a good thing.

Next post will definitely have more pictures! (i.e later tonight even)

I promise.