Kimber Doll

Hello Kitties

2012-01-27T15:41:00.001-07:00

Just some photos of the little fur balls in my life. I love having them around!

^Fabulous Tibbi Boy^

"A cat's eyes are windows enabling us to see into another world." - Irish Legend

Product Rave - Tresseme Curl Defining Spray Gel

2012-01-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

Tresemme Curl Defining Spray Gel

Shapes and Smoothes ~$3

Let me start off by first saying that I absolutely love Tresseme Products! I think for the price, they really can't be beat. Their big selling tactic is that say they are professional quality products at drug store prices. Well they are among the cheapest of the cheap at the drug store, and I do believe they are better than a large portion of the over priced hair products available at salons. I've definitely used my fair share of "high end" hair products. I washed and swept up hair in a salon in high school and looked down my nose at anything that wasn't purchased in a fancy salon. But after trying Tresseme, I'm pretty certain I won't get sucked into the hype of high end products any more.

I have naturally wavy hair; more wavy than straight, but definitely not curly. I'm really low maintenance during the week and to be honest, don't put much effort into my day to day work look. I'm constantly looking for hair solutions that are quick and easy.

I shower at night, so to achieve this look, I just shampoo and condition my hair with Tresseme Shampoo and Conditioner for Color Treated Hair, then run a bit of anti frizz cream through it with my fingers. I find that finger combing wavy hair before it dries rather than combing/brushing, helps eliminate any frizz. Then I just let it air dry until morning.

In the morning, all I do is spray my dry hair with this gel, clip back my bangs and go. This morning, it took about five minutes:

I love that it doesn't dry in thick crunchy curls like some mousses do, or create any frizz whatsoever. All it does is amplify my natural curls, and it holds all day! I do spray a little hairspray on after, but not much.

So to sum it up, here are the things I love about this product:

-$3

-Works well on wet or dry hair

-No frizz

-Light, won't weigh down hair or give the "crunchy waves" look

-Lasts all day

-Smells good (kind of like kiwi)

I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who wants to get smooth, "care free" looking waves. It's the best product I've used on my waves, and I've tried a lot!

Five Stars.

Have you used Tresemme products before? What did you think?

Bedroom Tour

2012-01-24T12:17:00.013-07:00

Hello!

I thought I'd do a post showing you some of the decor of where I sleep each night - my bedroom!

It's a lot more gender neutral than my last bedroom, which was pink and frilly and Audrey Hepburnish.

^I tried to create a zen like look to the room, while still letting some of my own style shine through.All the bedding was purchased at Winners. I liked that it was pretty neutral with a quiet pattern that doesn't over power the room.

The dried bamboo is from Urban Barn, and the furniture is Ikea Malm. This is the tiniest collection of the Ikea furniture; it's very minimalistic, inexpensive, and works great for condo living, albeit a general lack of quality. You get what you pay for.

I got the above painting from Urban Barn. I love their paintings. Of course they are massed produced like most decor chains, but the difference with these is that they are all still hand painted. (Info courtesy of Emily =) I love big brush strokes loaded with paint that dry thick, and this one has it. It has glitter on it, too, which you'll see from the below photo of the painting close up:

And my Buddhas, ( or Budais if you want to be precise about it =p)

^I love these. From Urban Barn, too, these Buddhas actually come in a set of 3 - speak no evil, hear no evil, and see no evil. I only needed two, so I opted for the hear no and see no =)

I keep whatever book I'm reading at the time on my night stand. Has anyone read this book, Zen Mind, Beginners Mind, by Shunryu Suzuki? I've been exploring a bit of my spirituality lately, and would be interested to hear from anyone who has read this or a book on the same topic.

^Where I'll sometimes get ready if I don't feel like using my vanity table, and where I get a full length look of myself before I go out. On the shelves, top shelf are my perfumes, second shelf is Ryan's colognes, and below that is a too small jewellery box and mish mash of randomness that I probably should have cleaned before taking the pic! I need to put more shelves up! Seriously, shelves are a godsend in places where extra furniture won't fit.

^My perfume collection! I love displaying all of the pretty bottles. They most definitely serve as art in my eyes, so I wouldn't dare hide them away.

And here is the entrance to my closet and bathroom, with the matching sketch I talked about in my bathroom tour post.

So as you'll see, I didn't stick completely to the zen theme. There are definitely some girlie glamour elements thrown in there, but as I say, that's what keeps things original and unlike a page from a furniture catalogue.

Hope you enjoyed my tour!

Thought I would update this with a couple photos of my old room, so you can see how my style has changed:

How do you have your bedroom decorated? Do you follow any themes?{ my fave design site for those who live the condo lifestyle.}

Kimberdoll is back =)

2012-01-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

Hola Chicas!

You may or may not have noticed that I've changed my blog name back to Kimberdoll. This was the original name I had chosen for my blog back in 2009 when I set out on the blogging journey. Reason's for changing back? Well, it makes a lot more sense seeing as how my blog url is indeed kimber-doll.blogspot.com. Also, I felt that unless you know I blog a lot about beauty, "Kim's Vanity" sounds a tad vain. The vanity word was literal for a makeup vanity, but some people may have misconstrued it as, "Kim's Vanity", as in, Kim is a vain person. All in all I don't think it's a huge deal either way, but I'm happy to be back to my original moniker, and to do more writing, which has always been my number one hobby and why I began to blog in the first place.

Test Your Stree Level =)

2012-01-19T16:49:00.002-07:00

The slower the pictures move, the better your ability of handling stress.

Alleged criminals see them spinning around madly while seniors and kids see them still.

Clickies

How fast did they move for you?

Getting To Know Me Tag

2012-01-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

Schnelle tagged me in a Getting to Know Me tag.

Thanks, Danielle!

1. How did your parents come up with your name? I think they just liked the name Kimberley. My middle name is Kay and they debated over that being my first. I wish my first was Kay, because it's unique.

2.Do you typically get your nails done or do them yourself?I NEVER get my nails done. I hate sitting still for so long, and when I used to get gels it killed me. So yes, i do my own

3. Do you leave the house without makeup on?Depends where I'm going. I can't wear makeup to the gym, but everywhere else I usually have at least some on

4. Silver or Gold?Both. I am a neutral skin tone and can wear both

5. Where would you like to go on your next vacation?JAPAN. But before that, probably a road trip down the pacific coast

6. Name one thing on your bucket list.Travel the world

7. What is your favorite feature (eyes, smile, etc)?eyes

8. What song(s) are you obsessed with at the moment? Shut Up and Dance by Victoria Duffield

9. Do you use sarcasm a lot?No, what is sarcasm?

10. What is the first thing that you notice about someone?The look in their eyes.

11. What is your favorite food and/or dessert?Sushi! I'm not a desert person and will rarely order any.

I tag anyone who would like to participate.

MukLuks, Igloos, and Ice Hotels

2012-01-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

It's super cold where I live, right now. -30 celsius before wind chill on the walk to work today. But I don't mind bundling up every now and then. I wear my down filled jacket, fuzzy white toque and gloves, burberry cashmere scarf (so warm), jeans over top of my leggings, and my trusty UGGS. I don't care how unfashionable many deem UGGS to be. The fact that I can wear them barefoot in -30 and not feel a thing says it all. Function over fashion in these sub arctic climates!

Can you imagine living in this year round? I don't know how the Inuit do it, but I've always been intrigued and mystified by their way of life. They always seem to have a certain calmness about them that radiates through their pictures, paintings, and artifacts.

I REALLY want a pair of Mukluks. They are much more esthetically pleasing than UGGS, and are probably much warmer, too. The amount of hand work and time that goes into a real pair of genuine Canadian mukluks astounds me:

^Simply Beautiful^

Have any of you ever been inside a real igloo? (Not one built in your backyard, but a real one with a fire, bear skins, smoke hole and sleeping bags). Probably not, unless you've ventured up north at some point.

Here is the inside of a modern igloo:

Just kidding. This is an igloo inspired resort. Personally I love the clean contemporary feel to it. Very modern and chic.

If you're a little more adventurous and want to feel like The Snow Queen on her throne from Hans Christian Anderson's beloved fairy tale, why not travel to Swedish Lapland for a few nights in their ice hotel?

The Snow Queen by Hans Christan Anderson was my absolute favorite growing up, and still is my favorite fairy tale!

It's such a multi layered story, and there are always new things to be found each time you read it. It's such a mysterious tale, and Lapland always sounded so intriguing to me as a kid. When I lived in Winnipeg my mom would read it to me on the -45 days, and I'd wish I could press a hot penny to the frosted window like Kay and Gerda did, to catch a glimpse of the snowy world outside .....

Stay warm during this cold snap! After work I'll bundle up for the walk home, then gather some blankets by the fire place and doze for awhile ...

Book Shelf: Skinny Bitch

2012-01-12T16:45:00.001-07:00

"Skinny Bitch" by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin (came out around 2007, I believe) was last week's read. Or should I say, quarter read; that's about all I got through before tossing it down in frustration. Usually I'll see a book through to the last page in order to give it the full benefit of the doubt, but certainly not this time!

I'd picked this book up a couple times in Chapters, contemplating buying it more out of curisosity than the weight loss tips it could garner. Luckily I eventually came across it again at Walmart for $15, and decided to snag it.

The reason I so prematurely gave up on this book? This isn't a diet book with tips and tricks for helping you slim down - it's a clever wolf in sheep's clothing. Simply put - it's the Vegan Mein Kemf of diet books!

Do I have any problems with veganism/vegitarianism? Of course not. I admire the strength of anyone who is so dedicated to a cause that that they can adapt their entire lifestyle to comfortabley accomodate it. (I know I probably couldn't!)

What I DO have a problem with , is wrapping up a pro-vegan, anti-meat eaters manifesto in a "diet" book and then sneakily marketing it towards people trying to slim down. The authors saw an easy demographic of which to market their hidden agenda towards, and that just doesn't fly with me! Nowhere on the front cover, back cover, or inside the jacket are there any clues it's a pro-vegan book - can you say bait and switch? If I want to becaome Vegan, there are plenty of books I can find without being tricked into it! For that reason alone I was completely turned off by the book, only pages in.

'A no nonesense, tough love guide for savvy girls who want to stop eating crap and start looking fabulous!" Apparently you won't look fabulous if you eat meat.

There's the problem. The authors don't respect people with different view points, and in this book, everyone who eats meat is an uneducated monster, and a fat moster at that!

There is only one way to lose weight and be slim; take it from personal experience. It really is quite simple and can be summed up in a simple phrase:

Burn More Calories Than You Consume!

Whether you live on lettuce, beef, lentils, nuts, cornish hen, WHATEVER - just make sure you are burning more energy than you consume, and you will never be fat! It really is that simple!

Find out your BMI (a google search and a couple of easy calculations will give it to you in seconds) and then the amount of calories you should consume ir order to lose or maintain your weight. Then just don't eat more than that! And if you do, work out! I'm saying again, Yes, it really is that simple.

Just don't overdo it and get all obsessive about weight loss, like I did circa '07. 'Walking Skeleton' really isn't a good look on anyone.

If you over do it with pasta and wine one night, then YES you better be sweating at the gym the next day.

Okay, if not eating animals is your thing (I've contemplated it myself) just make sure you don't prosecute those who've made a different choice! One of the "Skinny Bitch" authors credentials are listed as "a self-prescribed know-it-all" on the back of the book. Yeah, won't be taking any of her health advice this century.

Have you read this book? What did you think?

A Painting in Progress

2012-01-12T10:43:00.000-07:00

Little horsies kickin' up dirt!

Here is one of my husband's latest paintings. I'm biased I know, but I'm not plugging him, I promise! I just think it's really neat to see how a painting progresses. Whenever we view a piece of art, we seldom can envision how it first starts out. It's fascinating to think that a work of art begins as but a meagre seed in the artist's mind.

This will be his 2012 submission to the Calgary Stampede Western Art Auction, and I named it "Unbridled". Neither me or Ryan are into cowboys/horses/Western culture, but with where we live, it is really what sells the best. I don't think art should be all about the money that is made however. You need to enjoy the artistic process and sometimes let the idea of money fall to wayside, or else really, what is the point? I'm happy Ryan has found that balance in the last couple of years.

If you haven't yet figured it out, I do love art as well. Viewing it, collecting it, and attempting to create it myself. I feel lucky to at such a young age have an apartment almost full of genuine original paintings. I think I will do a post on them soon, not for the purpose of showing off, but rather to share something I am passionate about!

Do you love art?

More Birthday Snippets

2012-01-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

Just some more remnants from my bday weekend..

Ryan took me for a nice birthday lunch on Friday. =)

Saturday Ryan's parents came over for a visit and braught us Jelly doughnuts. They were yummy!

His parents also got me these beauiful earrings; a trio of white, yellow and rose golds.

Earrings from Emily and Ashley =) Thanks, girls!

Met with my parents on Saturday night for my birthday dinner with them at one of my favorite pubs, the Winkin Owl. Pubs are just a tradition in my family, and we've been going here for years.

How has your weekend been?

I feel like all I've been doing lately are personal life posts, so looking forward to do some beauty reviews, book reviews, more FOTDs and OOTDs, and some articles.

Thanks for reading and have a great week!

My Birthday!

2012-01-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday January 6th was my birthday!

I didn't plan anything; I usually just go out for a dinner with Ryan and my parents on my birthday.

But my amazing best friends Emily and Ashley had something else in mind. They surprised me with dinner at Mango Shiva, a beautiful Indian restaurant on Stephen Ave. I have walked by here so many times and ALWAYS wanted to go in, because it's so unique. Here are the photos from the night!

Indian food is my absolute favorite next to Japanese. I could live in naan bread and butter chicken. I had the Rustic Chicken Curry above with nann for dinner, a couple martini's and lots of red wine =)

Andrew does the best blue steel EVER, bar none.

Emily actually baked me a delicious chocolate buttercream layer cake, and had our waitress bring it out for me after dinner!

It was seriously to die for. She definitely has amazing baking skills!

I LovE you Em and Ash! Always!

I feel so lucky to have such amazing people in my life. It can be hard to find people you truly connect with, and I've definitely found it with these people! Our conversations just flow, and five hours, five bottles of wine later, we wonder where the time has gone.

After dinner, I was't quite ready to go home, so me Ryan and Dave headed across to V Bar.

Banana vodka shots, because .... it was my birthday!

I danced the night away, (haven't stepped into a nightclub in seriously, YEARS, apart from my stagette), and had a blast with these two! You rock Dave; you're an amazing friend to both of us and thanks for getting us home!

******

I hope you are having a great weekend!!

New Hi Lights

2012-01-05T23:21:00.000-07:00

Hello! Thought I would do a quick post showing off the new chunky hi lights I had put in this evening. I LOVE them! I wanted something striking but that would still keep me looking over all brunette. My hair stylist Danielle did an amazing job; exactly what I wanted!

Anyways, I hope you have a great Friday, and a great weekend!

My Bathroom Decor

2012-01-05T09:36:00.001-07:00

We have a pretty typical apartment style bathroom. Small, slate floors, white and chrome finishings. It was up to me to breathe some life into the bathroom space with feminine accents. I'm lucky my husband doesn't give a damn about decor as I have quite a girly penchant!

First up were the walls.

The fastest way to liven up any space is to start hanging some paintings/photos. No paint, no mess, but an instant face lift. It doesn't have to be expensive art either, as you will soon see from mine:

The large sketch on canvas (left) was around $24, and I dug it up at Winners a couple years ago. I have a matching larger one next to my closet that I will show in a later post. I love the look of it.

The above is simply a computer print of one of my favorite artists, KuKula. I did a post about her here. I love the look in the girl's eyes in this, and how she is holding a little house. I actually printed off a few of these and colored some in, but the straight black and white sketch looked best in the bathroom.

^One of my own Louboutins sketches. A happy little piece to complement the others.

Just below the painting and to the left of the sink sits a silver box lid that contains my favorite candle, my Chloe eau de parfum and cream, and my Estee Lauder face cream. The candle is called "Fig Fatale" and it is the most divine smelling candle you could imagine. I like to light it when I have my baths.

To the right of the sink sits a victorian style jar that I keep my cotton swabs and q-tips in. Next to that are some of the artificial cherry blossoms that were used in my wedding. I folded the long stems down so they would fit in the small square vase. The vase came from one of the dozen roses Ryan got me. I thought it was perfect for a bathroom.

And next to the bath tub I keep my reading material for my baths. Books with pretty covers can serve as additional eye candy in the bathroom, so don't hide them away.

***

The Bachelor Season 16 - Ben Flajnik

2012-01-03T15:49:00.000-07:00

My favorite Monday night indulgence is back in full force! The Bachelor Season 16 with Ben Flajnik.

To be honest I was pretty shocked when I learned back in September that they'd appointed Ben to be the new Bachelor. I'm thinking they may be running low on possible recruits at this point - he just doesn't have that "it" factor in my opinion. Or maybe I'm just missing something. I guess he does own a winery.

But something needs to be done about his hair, fast. I like long hair, but something's not right with it on him.

Noteworthy Contestants:

The Canadian

I don't remember this girl's name and can't be bothered to look it up, but I swear the casting agents of this show deliberately set out to find the most embarrassing singles from the Great White North. Justin 'Rated R', The Guy you could barely understand from Ashley's season, and now Miss Bacon.

The Unstable

How this bachelorette (Jenna Burke, if you care to know) passed the mandatory psychiatric test needed to appear on the show is beyond me. Why Ben gave her a rose after witnessing first hand her blabbering incoherency is even stranger. Get this blogger a strait jacket!

The "VIP Cocktail Waitress."

What exactly is a VIP Cocktail Waitress anyways? I'd rather have "unemployed" below my name. A quick google search returned that the lovely Blakeley makes her coin serving up wings at Hooters. VIP indeed.

There were lots of other contestants I wanted to cover, but I only got two hours of sleep last night and am too lazy to delve.

Tell me your thoughts on this year's Bachelor Ben Flajnik and the Girls!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

Dress Bebe (3 yrs old)//Tights Suzy//Shoes: Charlotte Russe//Earrings: F21

I always enjoy dressing up for New Years. The last two or three years I have been to house parties, which I honestly prefer over anything else. This year I went to my friend's Ashley and Sam's gorgeous apartment in Marda Loop, and had a blast.

Ash and Sam

My goals for 2012:

1.Lose the weight I gained in 2011.

I want to do this by just maintaining a healthier lifestyle. I love eating out and I love wine, so if I can cut down on those and keep up with my exercise, I should be in good shape.

2.Finish up my schooling and get a better job!

Wish me luck with my goals this year. What are yours?

My 2011 Reflections

2011-12-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

"By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest. "

If I could describe 2011 in one word, it would be Growth. I don't know that I've ever done as much growing in a single year as I've done with this one. So much so, that I actually recognized it as it was happening. We usually don't realize we've expanded personally until a later time, when we look back on certain events.

I would react to certain situations, and think to myself, "Wow. This is so much different then how I would've reacted a year ago." A much better different of course.

I feel like I got to know myself better. More confidence. I also learned that too much confidence can work against you. I learned to look at things from outside my own scope.

Of course, the main event of my 2011 was the my wedding. The biggest event in my life to date. I was so nervous. Not on the day, but the year leading up to. Gave me severe anxiety at times. But I pulled it off, planned and executed an amazing wedding, and the feeling of accomplishment it left with me, will last a lifetime.

I also made a promise to be true in every sense of the word to one man for the rest of my life. This was huge for me. I don't take marriage lightly. I don't fall and stay in love easily.Or I didn't until I met my husband. Perhaps that's why I was so upset with the whole Kardashian wedding fiasco of this year. It's heart breaking to me, to see someone take advantage and trample all over something as sacred as marriage. I'm not perfect; we all make mistakes. But we at least have to try.

2011 wasn't all roses and wedding dresses for me. I struggled personally at the very beginning of the year, which almost set the precedent for how I assumed the rest of the year would pan out. 2011 was a year of stark contrast to say the least. Sweeping fantasies realized, as well as some of my darkest hours to date. But that's life. If 2011 showed me anything, it's that life is unpredictable. So you need to constantly search for the positive and know that there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel, if only you decide to keep moving long enough to catch a glimpse. From our deepest struggles come our greatest lessons.

Now, looking back on 2011, I am so thankful that it turned out the way it did. I feel like this year gave me the tools and prepared me for the rest of my life. 2012 is going to be an amazing year; I can feel it.

I also want to thank those who have kept visiting my blog and following along on my journey through life.

So with that, as we embark on 2012, I would encourage you to make this year your best yet.

-Kim

Outfit - Ryan Turns 26

2011-12-29T21:57:00.000-07:00

Ryan's birthday falls on boxing day, and this year I decided to take him out for dinner wherever he wanted. We hadn't been to the Calgary Tower in a couple years, so he thought why not.

I find the food to be quite hit and miss at the tower to be honest. I've had some great meals there, and some pretty bad ones too. This last one fell in the latter category unfortunately. The above calamari was ok, but my meal below left much to be desired:

This bolegnese looked and tasted like Hamburger Helper - actually, I've had more tasty hamburger helper. A let down, but the birthday boy's risotto was good at least, so that's all that mattered. I didn't let it ruin the night or anything.

They brought out a scoop of ice cream for his birthday which was nice

The service is good at Calgary Tower, and the views cannot be beat, so I probably will return eventually.

Hope you are having a great week and a great weekend to come!

My Christmas Part III - Christmas Dinner

2011-12-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

The last of my Christmas posts - Christmas dinner at Ryan's parents. For the last three years me and my parents have been going over there to celebrate Christmas day. It's always a larger gathering and always a lot of fun.

My stocking from Ryan's mom. She does stockings for everyone in the family including the significant others and buys individual presents for each one. How nice is that!

All my goodies:

I LOVE the present from Ryan's parents this year:

These are the preserved, crystallised flowers from my wedding. Some from my bouquet, some from the alter, etc. Ryan's mom worked for months making this glass case of flowers, and I absolutely love the fact that they will last forever. I love the glass case she made also, this gift reminds me of the glass encased magical rose from Beauty and the Beast.

And so Christmas wraps up for another year.

I hope you had a great holiday season whatever it is you did, and have a Happy New Year.

What are your plans for New Years Eve?

My Christmas Part II - Christmas Morning!

2011-12-28T18:56:00.001-07:00

Christmas morning was the best part of my Christmas this year! Me and Ryan woke up around 9:30am (early for us on a weekend =P). He made me one of his egg nog lattes before we opened our stockings.

In my stocking:

Lush bath bombs

Bebe Gold parfum

Christian Dior Eye Shadow Palette =)

Bebe toque

Chambord

Refill of my fave lemon body butter:

Everything was so thoughtful ;*(. He knew everything I would pick for myself and I couldn't believe it!

*******

After he opened his stocking, it was time for my main gift:

An Hermes Scarf!!!

You have no idea how much I have longed for one of these.

It was on my bucket list, a milestone to own an Hermes silk scarf. Unlike the designer purses I used to covet as a status symbol, I wanted an Hermes scarf because of the beautiful art they all represent. These scarves are more than just a fashion accessory, they are truly a work of art. Many people frame them, and to me, wearing it is like wearing a piece of magnificent art. LOVE.

Hopefully by the time I'm 50 I will have a collection of these timeless pieces. They are such a classic accessory that will never go out of style =)

And here is the carnage after the present opening:

I just finished cleaning everything up today!!! I don't know about you, but Christmas always leaves my place in a huge disaster for at least a few days ... wrapping paper, new gifts, stocking stuffers, etc., are EVERYWHERE. But it's worth it!

Until Next time!

My Christmas Part 1 - Christmas Eve

2011-12-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a great Christmas! I'm sad that it's all over for another year; it always goes by so fast!

On Christmas Eve, me and Ryan headed over to my parents' house for a dinner my mom made for the four of us. It was great. My mom had stockings hung for me and Ryan, (those are my favorite), we exchanged our gifts to one another, drank some sherry, played a board game, and had some great discussions. Smaller gatherings are always my favorite at Christmas, because you actually get to talk to everyone there. Plus, I'm more used to it, as growing up it was always just us four at Christmas. We missed my sister and her bf this year though!

It was such a fun Christmas Eve, spending time with family is always the best part.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas, my LOVIES!!!!!

I hope you are having a blast with family and friends this Christmas eve.

I'm at my parents house right now with Ryan, enjoying a glass of white wine. We are about to sit down to a delicious turkey dinner my mom has made for the four of us. After that we will go to a Christmas eve service at their church, then come back, open presesnts, and play board games.

We'll be back at our place tonight, in order to enjoy our first Christmas morning together as a married couple; at our place with our tree, fire place, stalkings and cats. Then we'll head over to Ryan's parents house for the big dinner they hold every year. Looking forward to it!!!!

Yesterday was our Christmas celebration with my friends =) We had yummy lunch and drinks at V Bar and exchanged gifts. Love my friends!

The best presents of all are spending time with my family and friends.

I hope you have some people to spend time with this Christmas!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Christmas Countdown: Our Edible Traditions

2011-12-21T17:23:00.000-07:00

I love how every family has their own unique Christmas traditions. Below are ours!

Christmas Desert

When I think of Christmas, I think of the Sherry Trifle my mom makes every year just for us. It is a unique desert that originated from Britain where my parents are from. I'm sure you've seen it before.

Angel food cake and berries are soaked in a delicious sherry fortified wine, then topped with a thick layer of creamy custard and decadent whipping cream.. And because the cake and berries are infused with sherry after the oven, none of the booze is baked out. You know what that means - a happy place desert!

Christmas Drink

The single drink I associate most with Christmas is Sherry. Sherry is a fortified wine made from white grapes that are grown near the town of Jerez (Jerez de la Frontera), Spain My mom doesn't drink much of anything, but she does drink sherry on special occasions, and that's how I got hooked. I pretty much grew up on the stuff (that kind of sounds bad doesn't it?) and have been drinking it out of dainty crystal glasses at Christmas for as long as I can remember. It just tastes like Christmas to me.

Christmas Dinner

Kind of moving backwards with the food order of these favorites, aren't I?

This dish that I love is called Nalysnyky. They are Ukrainian crepes stuffed with cream, cottage cheese and dill (the best herb on the planet), and I would LIVE on them if they weren't stuffed to the brim with calories. I'd never had them before going to Ryan's parent's at Christmas. I've yet to make them myself but the recipe looks simple. You should try them, you WON'T be disappointed! Just google the name =)

Does your family have any traditional holiday treats?

Christmas Countdown: My Favorite Christmas Carols!

2011-12-20T12:30:00.001-07:00

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Judy Garland.

My favorite carol of all time, but it HAS to be the one by Judy Garland. I love it because her voice has that beautiful classic 40s sound to it. (My favorite era of all time). Judy was so beautiful, but her voice carries a weary sound to it, telling of the troubled life she lived. Judy was riddled with alcoholism and depression for much of her life but to hear her sing this song you'd never know it. This song is about putting aside all the pain in your life, to have a merry little Christmas. It's been known to bring a tear to my eye.

White Christmas by Frank Sinatra

Another great 40s carol. Hearing this sends me into a happy la la land. Whenever I have trouble sleeping, (like I did on my wedding night), I watch the original Disney Cinderella which was made in the 40s. The old fashioned music is so comforting and within minutes I'm nodding off. Same kind of sound as this one by Frank Sinatra.

All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey

Couldn't leave this one off the list, for obvious reasons! It's rare that an original carol from our era becomes a classic, but Mariah Carey acheived it with this song. It's such a happy song, and it reminds me of shopping.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays by N Sync

Do you remember this song?! The video for it is hilarious ... so bad! I remember doing a lame Christmas dance to it in grade 8, but I can't help liking the melody. It's cheerful and puts me in a silly mood.

What are your favorite Chrismtas carols?

Christmas Countdown

2011-12-19T15:20:00.002-07:00

Are you excited for Christmas?

I can hardly wait. It always takes about a week until the 25th before I start getting really excited. There is just so much to look forward to. The presents of course, but more than that, getting together with family and friends. I even love the word "Christmas"; saying it out loud and writing it. I know the word is dervived from "Christ", but it reminds me of cookies, wrapping paper, shopping and the smell of pine. It's my favorite time of year and the one saving grace of my winter.

I finished all of my Christmas shopping yesterday so now have a week to relax. Last night, after wrapping some gifts, I laid on my couch with a small glass of Baily's, the room illuminated with the glow of the Christmas tree lights. Carols were playing from the music channel on my tv and one of the cats laid by the fireplace. I could have stayed there forever. It's those peaceful moments when all is well in the world that is my favorite thing about Christmas.

OBSESSED - The Art of Hayden Williams

2011-12-16T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hayden Williams is a fashion illustrator that I've recently added to my personal obsessions category. I first learned of him from his Vogue Best Dressed cover drawing of Mary Kate and Ashley and instantly fell in love. He's been the most clicked upon link on my blog list since!

He updates daily; how he just churns out these incredible sketches so quickly is beyond me.

Looking at his drawings always inspires me to pick up those sketching pencils and create something myself. Will do another post of some of my (novice) sketches soon.

There is so much more I'd like to do if only I had the time. Painting, drawing; more writing. I'm inspried when I see artists that can fully devote their life towards a passion!

Outfit of the Night - Christmas Party!

2011-12-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dress & Belt:Bebe//Tights:Shoppers//Shoes:Guess//Earrings:F21//Clutch:Guess

Hey Guys!

Here is the dress I ended up getting for my work Christmas party. I actually found it on the clearance rack at Bebe. If you know me, you know Bebe is my favorite store for cocktail dresses, because I love the chic styles, prices, and fit. The store never lets me down. But what are the chances of finding anything on the clearance rack? I was beyond chuffed at saving a few dollars.

Guy Outfit of the Night!

Suit:Armani Xchange//Shirt:Le Chateau//Tie:Calvin Klein://Shoes:Boss Hugo Boss

I actually bought Ryan this suit as an early Christmas present. His other suit is ill fitting, and I like the European cut of this Armani Xchange jacket and pants. One day hopefully I can get him an actual Armani suit, but for now I love this one.

We also got into the Christmas spirit this last weekend by picking up a few thing to decorate the house:

Silver garland, Christmas tree decor, his and hers stalkings, and wrapping paper for presents.

Our decorated tree! :

And of course Tibb's couldn't help also getting into the Christmas spirit:

I have a little more shopping to get done this weekend, but after that should be all done!

I'm really looking forward to it this year. Remember when you were a kid and Christmas was actually magical? By this time I was so eager for it to come and always felt like it was taking forever. I'd always pester my mom to get presents put under the tree early so I could shake them repeatedly and imagine what might be wrapped up inside. I'd rip tiny holes in the paper of my presents to try and catch a glimpse of the box for hints.

Are you ready for Christmas?

Our Honeymoon

2011-12-12T19:39:00.000-07:00

Hello!

I was finally able to get all of our honeymoon photos put together - sorry it has taken me so long.

We both loved Jamaica. A bit of a bumpy start to our vacation with the red eye flight and seat problems on the plane. After spending 24 hours awake we arrived at our hotel to learn we couldn't check into our room for another six hours. We could have gotten mad, but it's hard to stay mad with the beautiful surroundings. What to do but grab a drink and sun tan.

What I loved about Jamaica the most was the people. They are so generous and have a hilarious sense of humour. The trip was mostly relaxing, but some activities we did were kayaking, pedal boating, catamaran "booze cruise", Dunn's River Falls (so cool), spa (pedicure and couples massage on the beach), pool aerobics, practising the lift from dirty dancing in the ocean, and making fools of ourselves on stage! (always the best). A great time was had, and here are the photos!

I would definitely recommend Jamaica for something a little different than the normal Mexico, Dominican, etc. Felt a bit more exotic, and I also liked that the standard of living is higher in Jamaica, so there were a lot of locals on the resort, and not such a class difference between locals and foreigners.

The only thing I wished for was a longer trip!!

Hope your week is off to a good start!

Sleeping Beauty 2011

2011-12-08T11:23:00.001-07:00

The movie poster for Julia Leigh‘s Sleeping Beauty (2011) depicts Emily Browning in a state of undress. Sleeping Beauty stars Rachael Blake, Michael Dorman, Mirrah Foulkes, and Ewen Leslie. Sleeping Beauty‘s plot synopsis: “Death-haunted, quietly reckless, Lucy (Emily Browning) is a young university student who takes a job as a Sleeping Beauty. In the Sleeping Beauty Chamber old men seek an erotic experience that requires Lucy’s absolute submission. This unsettling task starts to bleed into Lucy’s daily life and she develops an increasing need to know what happens to her when she is asleep.

I really want to see this twisted movie, despite the luke warm reviews it received at Cannes.
As usual, I'll have to wait til (if) it gets dvdified and order it from somewhere, or try and find it floating around online, as all the gritty unique movies I so desire to watch are never available for viewing where I live. Tear :*(

FOTD - The Quintessential Holiday Red Lip

2011-12-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

There's no better time to pull out the red lipstick than the holiday season. Apart from it being a standard Christmas color, it looks so crisp against the paler skin tones of winter. Perfect for that strapless party dress or evening gown. Another plus that I love about red lipstick is that you don't have to take much time working on your eyes; with a simple swipe of the red you look immediately done up and elegant.

Skin:

Loreal Magic Perfecting Base

Loreal Secret Number 2 Anti Redness Primer

Mac studio fix N5

Lancome Efacernes Concealer in Claire II

Eyes:

Loreal The One Sweep for Green Eyes

Hello Kitty for Sephora eyeliner pen in Ink

Maybelline Define a Brow in Dark Brown

Lancome Hypnose Mascara in Black

Cheeks:

Sei Bella Bronzer in Bronze Glow

Lips:

Revlon Creme in Lipstick in Scarlett

Are you a red lipstick fan?

Outfit - Shopping Trip

2011-12-05T17:34:00.000-07:00

undershirt:costa blanca//top:blue heaven//jeans:h&m//necklace:suzy sheir//broach:chanel//boots:farenheit//shoulder bag:coach

Hello, Lovelies!

I am back in the house after a wonderful Jamaican honeymoon. I really had a blast and LOVED the Jamaican people. I'll be uploading some photos to tell you all about it soon. I'm still trying to get caught up with things as the apartment is a disaster and I have school assignments coming out the ying yang. Such is life!

In the mean time thought I'd do a quick outfit post of me on my way to the mall to try and find a dress for my company Christmas party this weekend. I haven't been to it in three years so thought I may as well enjoy getting all gussied up for it. Wish me luck in finding something nice!

Hope your week is off to a good start!

Jamaica Honeymoon Tonight!

2011-11-25T12:42:00.001-07:00

Oh man, do I ever need this trip! It's our delayed honeymoon. We did a mini-moon wine tasting directly after the wedding, and it was so fun. But THIS trip, my friends, is what I've been waiting for.

Jamaica has always been a place I've wanted to visit because I think their Rastafarian culture is SO NEAT. Not gonna lie, I've been listening to Bob Marley all morning at my desk in anticipation of tonight! (Or 4am, the time we arrive). I just wrote a business math exam last night after working a ten hour day with no sleep,(numbers AREN'T my thing) so taking off to a Caribbean paradise as laid back and chill as I hear Jamaica is really couldn't have come at a better time. And this trip is what I was thinking of when I was super stressed throughout the whole wedding planning process and wanting it all to just be over at certain times - thinking of the beach and ocean waves kept me going when thoughts of eloping seeped in!

So long for now to the day to day grind of work and school!

And time for this!
Where we'll be staying (Ocho Rios, north side of the island):

I love resorts like this and am also looking forward to getting to know the locals to really get a feel for the Jamaican culture.
Hope it's everything I've wanted and more!

Have a fabulous weekend!

Outfit - Breaking Dawn Movie

2011-11-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

shirt:banana republic//scarf:suzy//jeans:h&m//bag:louis vuitton//boots:winners

I went to see Breaking Dawn Part 1 on Saturday afternoon, with my sister-in-law Brittany and 3 of her friends. I actually liked it a little more than I thought I would. It was super slow throughout the whole thing, but the last 25 minutes (almost) made up for it. It has an ending that will leave you wanting to see Part 2 right away!

As always, Kristen Stewart's horrendous acting and the dubious script had me cringing throughout, but the eye candy of Taylor and Robert more than made up for it!

I also loved loved loved how they played Bella's Lullaby (my favorite song EVER) throughout the movie.

This song reminds me of when I first met Ryan, in the cold and damp fall of 2008 when the first Twilight movie came out.

I love this song so much that I walked down the aisle to it at my wedding!

Love this song so much. It reminds me of the misty mysterious days of when I first met Ryan and didn't know everything about him yet. Reminds me of reading the twilight books with tea on a cold winter's night. Also being in Washington with the rain and forests. And of course, now, it reminds me of my wedding.

Have you see this movie yet? What did you think?

UPDATE - Counterfeit Canada Goose Jackets

2011-11-20T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hi!

I just wanted to leave you a quick follow up post in regards to my last post about ordering a Canada Goose jacket online for $400.

I ended up not buying it because it the only size it came in on the site I was on was xs, and I wanted a small because I'll be keeping it for life. All I can say is THANK GOD I didn't get it!

Apparently Canada Goose counterfeit jackets are a HUGE problem right now, and you can't even buy authentic ones anywhere but at authorized dealers - epecially not online!

These counterfeit jackets sold online are gross imitations, and the hood ruff can be anything from dog to cat fur. Yuck! They are mass produced out of China, and instead of being goose down filled, they are filled with a bacteria infested feather mulch that is coated with fungus and mildew.

I seriously was pulling out my credit card and getting ready to spend $400 on one of these sick knock offs.

I had to post this just because I hope no one went looking for a Canada Goose Parka online after reading my post. I would feel horrible if someone else bought one. Can you imagine spending hundreds of dollars on a fake jacket that poses serious health risks?

The scary thing is, there are over 100 of these fake Canada Goose websites. These fake parkas are not made properly and someone could unknowingly freeze to death buying and wearing one in subarctic climates. You can only buy them at authorized dealers!

http://www.canada-goose.com/counterfeiting/

Thanks for reading.

Winter is Here and I Need a Parka!

2011-11-18T10:01:00.003-07:00

Today marked the first real cold day of winter. -16 c but with the windchill, more like -25.

I always do posts regarding the first real shock of winter, because I don't care what anyone says, even if you were born in a place like this, you never get used to it.

BUT I am in much higher spirits than I was upon writing last year's post, as this year I only have a four minute walk from my home to the office where it's once again warm and toasty. No two hour commute in the snow and ice, and NO C TRAIN COMMUTE, which is even better.

It still does get cold during my meager five minute trek to work though, and I'd like to be able to walk other places on the weekends when the mercury has vastly dropped.

~~Hence my decision to go ahead and purchase the $400 Canada Goose Parka you see above.~~ Only buy a Canada Goose jacket at an authorized dealer. You cannot buy a reputable non- conterfeit jacket online. If it seems too good to be true - it is. I like that it's fitted so I won't look quite so much like the Michelin Man as I waddle to work like a penguin. The only slight down fall is that the hood ruff is coyote fur, which I do have a hard time with.

Here's a couple of photos of where I live, this morning from my office building:

Looks cold, hey?

Sort of, but it's actually quite balmy when comparing it to:

The coldest human inhabited place on earth:

Oymyakon, Sibera

(aka Stalin's death ring)

source

The lowest recorded temperature in this gem of a location was -72 CELSIUS. Yes, there are colder places on earth, but not as far as societies are concerned!!

The average HIGH in January minus 45 degrees Celsius!!!

Welcome Home!

So until my Parka arrives here from Canada Goose, I'll be reminding myself that it could be a lot, LOT worse. Props to the villagers of Oymyaken for living in the coldest place on earth, and not making a peep about it! We could really learn a lesson from them when it comes to bitching about a cm of snow on the road!

****

Bradley Cooper Sexiest Man Alive 2011

2011-11-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

What do you think of People Magazine's choice of Bradley Cooper being the sexiest man alive right now??Personally, I agree times one hundred! He is my favorite actor, and has been for a few years now. Love his hair, love his eyes, and love his over all look! He's half Irish and half Italian, and it's such a hot combination.

"I think it's really cool that a guy who doesn't look like a model " can have this title, Cooper says in the issue, out Friday.

Oh but, Bradley, you DO look like a model, and a smoking hot one at that. But hey, your modesty makes me like you even more, if that was even possible.

"I think I'm a decent looking guy. Sometimes I can look great, and other times I look horrifying."

I mean come on. Those eyes. Was there ever any doubt?

What are your thoughts?

Lunch Break Purchases

2011-11-15T17:01:00.002-07:00

{Clockwise Top Left:}

1. Cause the cover is gorg

2. Cause trashy gossip is a tiny weakness of mine

3. Cause I'm planning a trip to Japan in the near future and want to read up b4 I arrive!

petite treats at lunch time are the perfect work day respite...

MK and Ashley - Vogue Best Dressed Special Edition

2011-11-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

credit

I'm in love with the choice of cover subjects for Vogue's 2011 Best Dressed Special Edition.

All of a sudden I'm completely enamored with Mary Kate and Ashley, and I can't quite figure out why it's taken me this long to pay attention.

To me, they have an almost ghostly look to them, which normally wouldn't inspire me, but I'm completely captivated.

They remind me of little phantoms; haunted girls who I'm intrigued and mystified by. Walking art.

their tumblr

Can't wait to pick up this copy of Vogue.

New Makeup Vanity

2011-11-11T15:06:00.006-07:00

I've always loved having my own special place to get ready. I find it relaxing and fun to give myself lots of time before an event, pick out my clothes, take my time selecting my makeup and styling my hair. I listen to whatever music suits my current mood and will occasionally even pour myself a glass of red wine. Getting ready is one of my hobbies.

****
The layout of our new condo is completely different than our old one, and as such no real appropriate place for my makeup collection. Our old place had a roomy den that I converted into a vanity/dressing room. Our new place is a more open concept place, so I wanted a vanity that could also makeshift as a desk when not in use, and I found one at Bed Bath & Beyond. It sits in a small hallway between our kitchen and living room.

The top of the desk lifts up into a mirror, with a storage compartment underneath.

^Compartments clockwise from top left: primers, foundations/concealers, blushes/bronzers, mascaras.^

There are two drawers, one on each side where I keep my lipsticks and eyeshadows.
I used to try and keep my lipsticks organized better, but now I just throw them all together.
Lipstick Drawer:

Eyeshadows Drawer:

***
I decided to hang Ryan's geisha painting above the vanity. I thought it was quite fitting considering they paint their faces every day themselves.

When I'm not getting ready, I simply close the top and it appears like a small desk:

So there it is!

The (new) piece of furniture that originally inspired my blog's name all those months ago.

I'm not quite as into beauty related posts as I once was, (not as many FOTDs) but still love posting about makeup and all the girly silliness that comes with it.

Do you have a special area you like to get ready in?

11.11.11. Lest We Forget 11.11.11.

2011-11-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

Take a little time tomorrow to remember ..

Another Long Weekend

2011-11-10T10:56:00.001-07:00

Ahhh, I am so happy that it's the begining of another long weekend.

Time to sleep in and relax.

And of course to remember the departed, if you happen to be Canadian.

Have a good one.

Small Little Bathrooms

2011-11-07T15:20:00.001-07:00

I am loving these uniquely decorated bathrooms. Bathrooms are usually the last room in the house that thought is put into, but it's always been my favorite to decorate, with paintings, plants, trinkets, and anything else to liven up the place.

We are finally getting our place put together!

Will share some photos soon; I love home decor, and always love when people do room/house tours =)

What is your favorite room to decorate in the house?

'She's not giving the ring back': Kris Jenner reveals her daughter Kim Kardashian will keep hold of $2m diamond

2011-11-07T11:51:00.000-07:00

Ok, I promise this will be my last post about the sickening Kardouchian Klan, but after reading this, I can't help but vent a little.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2057188/Kim-Kardashian-divorce-Kris-Jenner-says-daughter-return-2m-diamond.html

(eww, she has penned an autobiography.)

Mushroom top Kris Jenner pretty much insulted an entire race of people by calling Kris Humphries an "Indian giver" regarding the ring he (rightly so) wants back from Kim. "I hate an Indian giver," she says on Good Morning America.

REALLY, momager, are you that ignorant?

Further proof that all the money in the world DID NOT buy this family any class. Boycott the Kardouchians!

Ok, no more posts about them after this, I promise! Besides the fact I dislike posting negative rants, I don't think my stomach can handle any more of this nonesense....

A Couple Blog Recomendations

2011-11-04T08:31:00.000-06:00

Don't you just love randomly stumbling across new blogs that you instantly love?

I have a couple to share that I have been addicted to lately:

Everything Mingi

A super fun beauty inspired blog. I just came across it this morning actually and am already going through all of her "you might also like" posts.

I LIKE IT PINK

This is fast becoming one of my favorite blogs and the creater is such a neat girl! Sofie is absolutely gorgeous, artistic and has great style; her whole blog is pure eye candy! Check it out, you won't be dissapointed.

Martha Marcy May Marlene

2011-11-03T09:38:00.000-06:00

Has anyone seen or at least heard about the new psychological thriller called Martha Marcy May Marlene?

It's a limited release movie that's won several awards and stars Elizabeth Olson in a critically acclaimed break out role.

These are my favorite types of movies, and I'm dying to see it, but it's not going to be released AT ALL where I live, and it's only slated to be screened in the major Canadian cities (Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto) for a couple days each.

Martha Marcy May Marlene is a powerful psychological thriller starring Elizabeth Olsen as Martha, a young woman rapidly unraveling amidst her attempt to reclaim a normal life after fleeing from a cult and its charismatic leader (John Hawkes). Seeking help from her estranged older sister Lucy (Sarah Paulson) and brother-in-law (Hugh Dancy), Martha is unable and unwilling to reveal the truth about her disappearance. When her memories trigger a chilling paranoia that her former cult could still be pursuing her, the line between Martha's reality and delusion begins to blur. -- (C) Fox Searchlight

I've always loved psychological thrillers, and been fascinated by psychology itself my whole life, which is why I love these movies. I wanted to take psychology in school and went as far as applying and getting a partial scholarship to the faculty, but then decided on business instead at the last minute. I don't regret it, but it explains my fascination with these types of split personality movies (Black Swan, etc.). Ryan's younger sister is currently getting her psychology degree and I love reading her textbooks, she's even lent me some.

Have any of you Americans seen this movie?

If so, let me know how it was!

Kim and Kris Divorced

2011-11-02T08:03:00.003-06:00

what a joke.

I admired Kim K from the beginning, if nothing more than for her unbelievable beauty and business savvy. Now I draw the line. Divorce after 73 days? Are you kidding me?

What kind of society do we live in when people like her and her family are looked up to, worshiped, and in the top income percentile due to their ridiculous antics?

Bleh, I'm done with her.

3 Years with My Love

2011-11-01T16:26:00.007-06:00

October 28th marked our three years together, and three months married.

I had no idea that Ryan had any plans up his sleeve, but in the early evening, he suddenly told me to get ready because we were heading out somewhere nice for dinner.

The Chef's Tasting Six Course Meal

Quite Possibly the Best Meal of My Life.

Roses and wine back at home.

A Perfect Night.

Q Haute

Didn't do anything for Halloween this year, other than have a nice relaxing night at home catching up on all of our tv shows. So glad to have have our PVR back! Does this mean we are getting old?! We also watched a little bit of The Grudge to get into the Halloween spirit, but I knew I would fall asleep, so I turned it off in hopes of watching it next weekend. I forgot how creepy and good it was.

Hope you had a good Halloween, whatever it was that you did!

What's in a Name?

2011-10-27T10:27:00.001-06:00

What are your favorite names?

For as long as I can remember I've been fascinated by people's given names. Last names fascinate me even more; I'm always wondering where they originate from.

My maiden name was Harrison, about as English as you can get, while my new last name is Axani, which originates long ago from Transylvania. Yes, I have married a vampire!

{Can't you just see the vampires lurking behind every corner in these beautiful Transylvanian castles?}

I wouldn't be fascinated with last names without being drawn to first names as well.

I've been deciding what to name my kids since I was a kid myself.

Before you get any ideas, we are not expecting a baby and if I can help it, won't be for a good while. I want to enjoy all that this life has to offer before completely devoting my life to kiddy winks. After I've lived it up, travelled, and made some good coin with my husband, then we will start thinking about kids! I admire women who were born with that maternal instinct and can't wait to start their brood, but that isn't me quite yet. Yes, technically we could buy a nice house in the suburbs right now and get a lot more bang for our buck than living in a high rise condo downtown, but it is the lifestyle we have fallen in love with, and I don't want it to change it any time soon!

Rest assured, when they do come along, I will be ready with an assortment of names to choose from!

Names I like for Girls:

Vienna

Amelia

Gabriella

Madeline (Maddie)

Abigail (Abbie)

So far my top pick is Vienna Axani.

Names I like for Boys:

Jacob

Frederick (Freddie)

Edward

Henry

(I definitely prefer more traditional names.)

According to babynamesgarden, the top boy and girls names for 2010 were Jacob and Isabella.

I really liked Isabella too until everyone else in the world jumped on board (circa 2007)! I'm a little miffed that Jacob has become so popular too, but it's still my top pick! Hopefully Freddie doesn't become popular again anytime soon. I think I will be safe with this one.

{Suri Cruise. Quite possibly the cutest baby ever born.}

What are your favorite names for people, or if you have kids, what did you name them?

Do you share the same "name fascination" as I do?

Lancome Hypnose Drama Mascara and Free Gift

2011-10-25T20:47:00.000-06:00

One of my good friend's Emily and I are always taking advantage of the gift with purchase days that makeup counters, namely Lancome and Estee Lauder have. Last week she told me about Lacome's pay $34 or more and get 7 free items.

Lancome Hypnose Drama mascara is my favorite ever, and I needed more, so headed down to get my free gift. They had this mascara package for exactly $34, which was great because usually they price the item you need to buy at just below the bribe price, so you need to buy two products and spend twice as much to get the freebie. Not this time!

Bi-Facil makeup remover, Hypnose Drama mascara, and Le Crayon Khol.

From the Lancome website:

Get instant lash drama in a single coat with this ultra volume-boosting mascara that’ll take lashes from so-so to show-stopping. The full contact brush, with its S-shaped curve, grasps and loads lashes for a fanned out, full body fringe. Lancôme’s luxe Texturizing Complex features highly saturated waxes and intense black pigments for maximum lash volume. The triple coating system delivers a fluid and creamy application to quickly and easily build big, battable lashes that won’t clump or flake.

Like I've said many times before, this is my all time favorite mascara. All it takes is one coat, and you can build, or "design" your lashes to exactly how you want.

Good:

-Only takes one coat for each eye which makes this last a LONG time.

-S shaped brush works well at gripping and fully coating each lash and allows for easy back and forth application.

Bad:

May be expensive for some people. But it's a department store mascara, and you get what you pay for!

Over all Rating:

5/5

Then it was time for my free gift, and as always, it came in a Lancome makeup bag:

L-R: age minimizing face cream, black kohl, dark spot corrector, mascara primer, hypnose drama mini mascara, lipstick in "all done up", and facial cleanser.

The sample size mascara will be great for my purse.

Are you persuaded to buy department store beauty products when there is a gift with purchase promotion?

Foreign Film Love - "A Call Girl"

2011-10-25T16:32:00.000-06:00

I recently watched Damjan Kozole's art film A Call Girl, and instantly found it interesting and intriquing. It's a Slovenian movie, actually filmed in the country's capital, Ljubljana, and had an earlier release in Europe as The Slovenian Girl.

I'm starting to enjoy foreign films more and more. I love how you never quite know what you are getting, which is so unlike the formulaic American blockbusters we are all used to here. The foreign films aren't so much an escape with a clear beginning, middle an end, as they are a temporary walk in someone else's shoes. Art films rely more heavily on character development and dialogue then they do gun shots and cheap thrills - I greatly appreciate it.

A Call Girl was no different. While the plot never gave way to clever twists and turns, there were enough "what the f*%k was that?" moments throughout to keep me scratching my head days after. Sometimes you don't need a concrete, in your face ending for a film to be satisfying. I would much rather enjoy the 90 minute journey and be free to form my own conclusions.

I would recommend this film for anyone who wants a departure from the typical. It goes back and forth between Slovenian and English, and large yellow subtitles are present with the former.

I won't tell you much more about this movie because I think it should be completely interpreted by the viewer from start to finish to fully enjoy =)

Have you seen this?

Here are some other art house films I love.

^The Housemaid^

These two movies above aren't foreign, but share a lot of the same traits that make foreign films so great.

One more reason I love Netflix: They have an entire section devoted to Foreign Films. You really can't go wrong, for $8 a month.

Do you like any indi/foreign films?

My Favorite Face Cream

2011-10-23T00:30:00.000-06:00

Estee Lauder Time Zone

Line and Wrinkle Reducing Creme SPF 15

It's such a treat to wear.

It's so rich, creamy, and decadent, but apart from that, it works.

I actually notice a difference in the look of my skin after cleansing and applying this cream. It looks, well - younger! More elastic, which is always a good thing.

It retails at around $60 per 1.7 oz (50 mL) but does go longer than your average face cream.

I was first exposed to it through one of Lancome's gift with purchase offers. There was a small jar of their anti aging cream, and I became hooked.

I would highly recommend it.

Sorry if this review is a bit hasty, I'm just in a hurry to let you know how much I love this cream.

Please let me know if you have any questions, and hope you are having a great weekend!

The Body Shop Big & Curvy Mascara

2011-10-19T10:44:00.001-06:00

$18 cdn

Love the pink and black packing.

Claims:

Makes lashes appear thicker and curvier

Advanced curl-fixing formula

Smudge, flake and smear-resistant

Dermatologically tested

Ophthalmologically tested

My thoughts:

Good:

-It went on easily and was quite easy to build.

- Easy to create winged lashes at the sides

-I liked the slender brush, and it even gave off a faint cinamon smell as I applied it.

Bad:

-Top cap fell off, creating a cumbersome stub of a handle

-Didn't retain moisture for long

*the lady at purchase suggested placing the tube in hot water when began to happen. I don't think this should be necesarry for an $18 masacara.

Over All Rating

3.5/5

The results were fair, but I've definitely used better.

Repurchase?

Probably not.

Have you tried this mascara or any other Body Shop products?

My Weekend

2011-10-17T13:25:00.000-06:00

Outfit - Reidel Wine Tasting

2011-10-15T23:34:00.006-06:00

I sure have been getting my fill of wine tastings. Tonight we went to another Riedel tasting and got six beautiful new glasses to add to our collection.

I was at a mini tasting with work on Thursday, and the sommelier was explaining how the many different Riedel glasses for each wine are nothing more than good marketing for people to spend their money on. I have to say I believed him ... until tonight!

We actually got to compare wines varying from the $50-$75/bottle range in Riedel glasses, swirling them, sniffing them, and sipping them before pouring the same wine into other standard restaurant style glasses. What a difference! No bouquet, no taste. I am definitely now a believer that a good proper glass makes all the difference when it comes to fully enjoying wine.

Hope you are having a good weekend so far!

Right now I'm just chilling at home, sketching a bit, and listening to The Cranberries. Do you remember them? I wish they still made music:(. Do you have to let it linger?

If you, if you could return

Don't let it burn, don't let it fade

I'm sure I'm not being rude

But it's just your attitude

It's tearing me apart

It's ruining everything

I swore, I swore I would be true

And honey so did you

So why you were you holding her hand?

Is that the way we stand

Were you lying all the time

Was it just a game to you

But I'm in so deep, you know I'm such a fool for you

You got me wrapped around your finger

Do you have to let it linger

Do you have to, do you have to

Do you have to let it linger

Oh, I thought the world of you

I thought nothing could go wrong

But I was wrong, I was wrong

If you, if you could get by

Trying not to lie

Things wouldn't be so confused

And I wouldn't feel so used

But you always really knew

I just wanna be with you

And I'm in so deep, you know I'm such a fool for you

You got me wrapped around your finger

Do you have to let it linger

Do you have to, do you have to

Do you have to let it linger?

Have a great weekend!

My Sketches

2011-10-12T12:51:00.001-06:00

A few weeks ago I got a sudden urge to try my hand at sketching. I hunted around for some of Ryan's pencils and messed around a bit on scrap paper. I have a long way to go, but am having fun in the mean time:

Will keep you posted on my progress!

Outfit - Wine Tasting

2011-10-09T01:07:00.000-06:00

shirt:aritzia//jeans:h&m//belt:louis vuitton//boots:winners//necklace:aldo//clutch:guess

Friday night me and Ryan headed to a pinot noir wine tasting at Willow Park wines & spirits. I don't know what it takes to become bono fide "winos" but me and Ryan are definitely on our way.

I don't much descriminate when it comes to wine; in fact I don't think there is a grape I've met that I haven't liked. Last night was no exception. We were able to make it through about half of the tasting stations in the cellar - maybe we are of the softcore wino variety.... that or we just don't use the spit bowl like we should.

I hope you are having a fun filled long weekend!

"A bottle of wine begs to be shared; I have never met a miserly wine lover."

-Clifton Paul Fadiman

It's Friday! Outfit

2011-10-07T13:27:00.002-06:00

black dress:bebe//sweater:f21//leggings&boots//winners//necklace:suzy

I don't know about you, but I am super excited that it's finally Friday! There aren't many better feelings than walking out of work knowing you have a long weekend in front of you. The only trick is figuring out how to make it last!
Tonight I am going to a wine tasting that I'm really looking forward to. Been working hard this week so ready to let loose a bit and taste some vino!

I want to apologize if you haven't heard from me in awhile. I have time to post, but barely enough to check out my favorite blogs, respond to blogger friends, or dig up new blogs. Plus when I do, blogger won't allow me to comment on blogs (again) unless there is a separate comment box.
Despite the declining interaction between myself and my readers these last few months, I feel like I am finally happy to be blogging what comes from within. Before I would tailor my posts by first asking myself "what will bring me the most hits? The most comments? What do people want to read?" and then create posts around those criterion. Now I am more concerned with just getting whatever is in my head out there, while those questions are becoming afterthoughts. It's much more enjoyable for me. Unless blogging is your full time job, I feel like you should just concentrate on posting about whatever you, the blogger, feel like posting about and not worry about much else.
People can take me or leave me, but either way, I'll still always be here sharing my thoughts and ideas.

Hope you have an awesome weekend!

Daily Outfit - Thursday

2011-10-06T13:22:00.001-06:00

Sleeves with no shape, necklines to the waist; there is nothing I love more than long slouchy sweaters for the cooler months. Like a piece of art draping your body

And an oversized collar will keep your neck happy and warm.

Are you excited for the weekend?

I can hardly wait as I have a whole four days off - yay!

Blogging has definitely been a nice release for me lately .. I'm not particularily enjoying a certain course I'm taking right now. I've always struggled with math and have to work extra hard at it. So it's nice to take a break once in awhile and create a post=)

Hope you are having a great week!

All Wrapped Up

2011-10-05T14:47:00.001-06:00

What is better than giant comfy sweaters for Fall?

The even bigger ones I am looking forward to this winter.

Hope you are keeping warm as the celcius continues to drop!

What is your favorite article of Fall clothing?

KuKula Art

2011-10-04T08:20:00.001-06:00

Click to enter KuKulaLand

Dinner at the Neighbours

2011-10-02T23:19:00.003-06:00

Last night we had dinner at the "neighbours" - Abruzzo Restaurant which is literally right across the street from us.

This is such a cute Italian restaurant, it's in a little house and it's so quaint inside.

It's so neat inside! One of those places where as soon as you walk in, the outside world vanishes. They were running a little behind as a result of being super busy (always a good sign). While we patiently waited and took in our surroundings, one of the waiters came up to us and apologized, then brought us two glasses of our favorite wine, their treat. How nice! Shortly after our table was ready and we sat down to eat.

^Linguini Pescatore

^Cannelloni

Our appetizer of non breaded calamari, as well as our red wine, was just as delicious as our above meals.

I highly recommend this restaurant.

We will be back!

Hope you had a splendid weekend.

Two Simple Products I Love!

2011-10-01T22:57:00.000-06:00

A short post to tell you about two simple products I have been loving this month. One may come as a surprise to you, as it's sold on the men's shelf of the pharmacy.

1. Old Spice Body Wash in Fiji

What can I say? This is most definitely a men's product. I used it during a shower one day, after realizing I didn't have any of my own on the shelf. WELL. For starters, it smells like a Carribean vacation. The regular Old Spice smells like my great uncle Herbert, but their NEW line smells DIVINE. Like coconut! Plus, like the package says, it's freshness lasts for 8 hours. Don't know how to describe it, but I felt a lot fresher than I normally do after using my regular body wash. I think cause guy's sweat more, their products are more potent. I find a lot of my girl body wash's scent only lasts for as long as I'm in the shower - not with this one! I felt like I had JUST stepped out of the shower all day - amazing!

2. Body Shop Body Butter in Sweet Lemon

The Body Shop has been making these butters for as long as I can remember. I LOVE this lemon one! It keeps my hands and feet well moisturized, but the real reason I use it is for the lemon scent. Every time I open the jar I get a blast of fresh citron ... YUM!

These are my two favorite products this month ... what are yours? Have you tried the above?

Grey and Black for Fall. Ground Breaking.

2011-09-29T12:53:00.000-06:00

Today has been the coldest of Autumn so far, so out comes the go-to scarf, (I really need to get some more), along with an old grey sweater, skirt and leggings.

Baked Avocado Tortillas

2011-09-28T12:27:00.001-06:00

Contrary to belief, I can cook. The fact is, I find it too time consuming, for the end result. You spend anywhere from an hour for a decent meal, to all day for a feast, and it is gone within twenty minutes, with nothing but a pile of dirty dishes in either one's wake.

Despite my laziness, I love watching cooking shows.

I love Hell's Kitchen, Master Chef, Kitchen Nightmares (both British and American), and Jamie's School Dinners.

My husband is a great cook, with lots of beautiful hard cover cook books by the above mentioned chefs. I love books, especially pretty ones, and like to flip through his recipes.

On my days off, when all I have is time, I have recently found myself in the kitchen more often than not, trying my had at some simple yet delicious recipes.

Here is one of my most recent recipes, from Jamie's America cook book The Baked Avocado Tortillas turned out perfectly, and were positively delicious, if I do say so myself.

Out of the Oven:

Plated:

Here is the cook book picture of the same meal:

Click here for Jamie's Baked Avocado Tortilla recipe.

Geisha Art

2011-09-24T18:50:00.000-06:00

credit

Geishas are mysterious and have intrigued me since I first learned of them.
I wish I could draw. I would adorn each of my walls with beautiful colored sketches of the cultural beauties.

Here is one of my husband's paintings (2009) in celebration of my fascination:

Ryan Axani 2009

I can't wait to start using my paints and maybe even try my hand at sketching so I too can create some beautiful art for my walls.

Do you love geishas?

Outfit - The First Scarf of Autum

2011-09-22T20:23:00.000-06:00

With tomorrow being the first day of Autumn, I gladly pulled on my boots and scarf this morning for work.

There is nothing wrong with wearing scarves during summer - as long as they are the right material. I am still awaiting the chance for the coveted Hermes silk scarf to be hanging in my closet, and as such most of my scarves are autumn and winter appropriate.

This is my typical work look, easy to throw on (I don't iron so all my work clothes needn't require it). I wear my hair like this nearly every day at work, it takes five minutes to throw up and is out of my face for the rest of the day.

The scarf above is an old favorite, and I honestly can't even remember where I got it. It's neutral colors help it go with anything, and it has just the right pattern to give any outfit an extra pop. Everything I'm wearing is old, I must go through my closet this weekend and figure out what I want to keep for the cooler months.

Fall allows us to show off more of our wardrobe singularly - there is nothing I love more than leggings under boots, with fitted Ts and over sized cable knit sweaters over top, belted and scarved, and accessoried up.

Fall is a wonderful time of year!

flat boots from Aldo and leggings from Winners.

My Thinspiration

2011-09-02T10:56:00.002-06:00

I have been revamping my work out routine over the last week, and as a result, I am aching as I write this! Aching in a good way. I love the way my muscles feel after a hard workout at the gym. I have fallen behind over the last year or so with my workout routines and diet. I used to the have the willpower of a mosquito going for blood. Would be at the gym every.single.day. of the week and have strict calorie restrictions on my self. It showed, but not in a good way! I was far too thin.

After I met Ryan, I became a lot happier, and learned to let go of some of those habits. In short, I gained a few healthy pounds.

It's a slippery slope though, because over time, those few pounds can escalate and before you know it, you are in unhappy territory again as a result of being larger than you would like. I'm happy with my size now, but could stand to firm up a bit.

Jessica Alba has the perfect body in my mind's eye. It is toned, not too curvy, and not too thin. Her body is just right.

Studies show that looking at extra fit models/actressess will help keep you motivated and optimistic to acheiving your own fitness goals. So intead of working out because you feel fat, work out because you are working towards a knock out body.

Giselle Bundchen is the epitome of female body perfection. Bodies like hers are born, not made. Completely genetic. No matter how hard I work out, I won't be 6'ft tall with a 24 inch waist. Guess that's why she's a supermodel! Freakazoid!

Here are the "bad" foods that I LOVE:

nachos

mozza sticks

beer

kraft dinner

I just love food in general, as I'm sure everyone does! I try to eat in moderation throughout the week, but on the weekends I usually let loose and eat whatever I want.

But I'm going to try and limit it to just one cheat day a week.

We live close enough to work now that I can walk home at lunch, which helps a lot! I'm going to stock my fridge this weekend with lettuce and chicken, for yummy chicken salad lunches.

Here are my fave healthy and yummy foods to stock our kitchen with:

Activa plain yogurt

Unsalted almonds

Peanut Satay Tuna

Peanut butter

Avocado

Olives

Pickled herring

These are just a few of the things I keep at home to help stave off cravings.

I like having a gym in our work building too .. in fact I'm heading there right now for lunch!

Have a great weekend!