This weeks "Favourite Thing" are my go-to/everyday pair of shoes:
Mary Jane Heels
I love the style of Mary Janes...I feel it is a very classic style of shoe. Not to mention, they go with virtually everything and transition easily from day to night, work to play. Not to mention, Mary Janes are sooo comfortable! Or at least mine are!
I work in non-profit fundraising, so they are perfect to wear around the office or out to meet clients. Mary Janes look great with skirts, or pants or shorts. I even wear them with jeans and a sweatshirt- the shoes keep the outfit from being super, super casual and let me come across as feminine.
I'm vertically challenged (I say I'm 5'2"...but I'm not quite), so I like to wear heels for the added height as well. I wear these shoes on a daily basis (work) and on weekends/after work, if I can't find the perfect shoes to go with my outfit, I pull on my Mary Janes.
I've been wearing Mary Janes for years and get tons of compliments on them. This shoe style was popular among flappers back in the 1920's. I was informed within the past year, that in a past life I lived in the 1920's. Maybe my love for the shoe style stems from that?
BOOK- I've always admired Ali Wentworth...I wouldn't say I was a huge fan of hers, but I enjoy her work. Combine this piece of information with the fact that I really, really, really enjoyed reading an excerpt from her book in Town & Country Magazine and I just had to add Ali in Wonderland And Other Tall Tales to my reading list.
A very fun and amusing read. This book didn't disappoint! Another collection of essays, the reader follows Ali has she grew up, made her name in Hollywood, met and married her husband and became a mom. We follow her on all of her adventures, starting in DC and moving to New England, California and New York.
This is a book that I will re-read (and soon!). I wish I had it is hard copy (instead of on my Kindle) as I would love to share it with my co-workers and friends.
SONG- I've been feeling a bit nostalgic recently...even listening to an all 90's station on itunes for days on end...so here's another 90's song:
I used this cream for the first time last week and I noticed a difference right away- as in when I woke up.
This cream is more of a balm...the texture reminds me of Vaseline, but not as gooey. This product can be used anywhere, especially super dry areas like elbows, but I only used it on my face. When I woke up, my skin felt hydrated, smoother, softer and my skin just looked healthier.
I've used this product every night since and I love it. This is the newest addition to my "must use" list and I am so thankful that it was included in one of my sample boxes!
To recently discover that I love the show Dance Moms. Miss Abby is something else. Jill is crazy. Kelly and Christie are catty. Holly...I actually like her. And the one from Candy Apple? OMG...she seems like a cross between a cartoon character and some evil witch. I danced for years...and never encountered people like this. I love the show so much...I spent a good chunk of last night searching for and watching episodes online.
That Pinterest is my new vice. However, I am using Pinterest to organize an event for work...so it is super useful. And I've actually used some of the stuff that I've pinned- either later going back and buying clothes that I liked, making recipes and even DIY projects.
That today is (one of) my best friends birthday and I sent her a text right at midnight wishing her a happy birthday. I did this because 1. I didn't want to forget and 2. It was important to me to be one of the first people to wish her a happy birthday!
That I kind of hesitated when a Mary Kay rep offered to give me a free makeover. She came into our office to drop something off, we got to talking and she made the offer- wanting to book it on the spot. Nothing has been set yet. But it makes me wonder...do I look that bad? Also, makeovers making me nervous...I'm not sure that I can act appropriately when I see the results.
To be considering joining Twitter. I technically already have a Twitter- I set up and run my works Twitter account. But I was thinking today, maybe I should join and create a personal account. But I'm not sure I want to jump on the bandwagon. Or posting so much about myself.
Spring is official here and spring cleaning has begun- at least for some people. I read on another blog that you should also 'spring clean' your purse and wallet. What a great idea!
I recently went from my fall/winter tote and downsized to my spring bag. Usually I just transfer over the must need items- wallet, keys, etc- and leave everything else. This time, I actually cleaned out my bag and my wallet. I ended up finding hidden money, jewelry, notes and other items that I could use. I also found a ton of stuff that I can just throw out, such as old pay stubs and receipts. I felt so much better and like I accomplished something. Plus I can now fit my Kindle into my purse.
I love Starbucks, just like every other person. The closest Starbucks to me is over an hour away- that's Rural Ontario living for you. Needless to say, when I'm going home (to my hometown) I stop and at Starbucks both on my way to and from home. I guess you could say Starbucks is my vice.
One of my favourite things is:
Starbucks Via
I make sure that I stock up on Via Packages every time I'm at a Starbucks. I love these things! They are individual packets of microground coffee, which means it works similar to instant coffee. I've tried both the Italian and 'Blond' roasts and both are good!
While I keep the box(es) on the counter at home, I keep a couple of packets in my purse and at my desk. They are so simple to use- pour packet into cup, add water, stir, enjoy! I've used Starbucks Via for a cup of coffee, macchiato, iced coffee and blended/frosty coffee. So many uses, all so good.
If you are a fan of Starbucks, or just coffee in general, I highly recommend picking up a box of Starbucks Via!
BOOK- I spent the weekend at the beach (I should actually be there right now...it's 82!) and I ended up reading:
I had heard a little bit about this book and ended up stumbling across it on Amzon for a fairly decent price. This book was hilarious. Babe Walker finds herself in rehab after spending over $200,000 on clothes, shoes, purses, etc. While in rehab, her issues get dubbed "White Girl Problems" with other rehab patients downplaying their legitamicy.
So, Babe decides to sit down and write out all of her problems, which would lead to her going to rehab. Problems include; her mother abandoning her when she's days old, comepeting with her best friend, dropping out of 5 colleges in 3 years and even her alter ego Babette.
While reading this book, I wasn't sure if I was reading a piece of fiction or not. This book is a memoir...and a great beach read!
SONG- Let's go back to 1997...this was one of those songs that was always playing on the radio, and a personal favourite:
Peaches ~ Presidents of the United States of America
BODY- With this weather, actually year round, you need to remember to wear sunscreen!
I actually like keeping my skin fair (aka pale). I do have SUPER fair skin and burn easily (more than once, I have gotten a sunburn walking from my car to the house/office/etc door) so I use a high SPF. We all know of the damage that sun and UV Ray can do to our skin (ex wrinkles) and health (ie cancer), so sunscreen should really be everyone's best friend.
To have been super lazy all weekend because I spent my days at the beach. I believe the 20's (or 70's) weather was not to be wasted.
That I played along online on Sunday with Canada's Smartest Person. Compared to the rest of the Nation, I did pretty well.
That one of my co-workers said "Reading a book is just like drinking beer". At first I thought this was funny. But once she explained herself, it totally made sense. Explanation: They are both so simple to do and both be done in one step- crack open a beer, crack open a book.
That, for the past 2 months, I have been eating the same thing for lunch every day. If I like avocado and hummus sandwiches...and I don't mind eating them...why wouldn't I have the same thing for lunch?
To read books that are not exactly quality reading. it is not my fault that chick lit is sooo good. Or addicting.
The weather in Southwestern Ontario has been beautiful- low to mid 20's (or in the 70's) all weekend. In fact, I spent Saturday and Sunday at the beach! I know tons of places are having this kind of weather.
Why not sit on the patio/deck/porch? Enjoy this summer-like weather. Have drinks after work on the patio. Eat dinner on the deck. Have friends over in the evening and chat on the porch. Whatever you do, do not waste this summer weather!
I am a HUGE fan of organic food. I buy as much organic food as possible- not only is it healthier for you, but you can actually taste the difference!
One of my newer organic finds is:
As you can see from the image, these are organic, vegan and gluten free. I love the fact that I have heard of and can pronounce ALL of the ingredients in the fruit bars.
These fruit bars are sooo good! I've only had the coconut one but fully intend on trying all the flavours. Not only do the fruit bars actually taste like coconut, but there were actual shreds of coconut in the bar!
These are perfect as a snack/after meal treat and with summer around the corner, I intend to keep a full stock in my freezer.
Squeeze yogurt onto baking sheet, making small dots
Put the baking sheet in your freezer (roughly an hour)
Remove frozen dots from baking sheet
Enjoy!
Notes:
Saw a picture of this recipe on Pinterest and from the picture figured out how to make it (yes, I know it would have been easier to click on the link).
The first time I made dots, I used cappuccino flavoured yogurt.The second time, I used different fruit flavoured yogurt. While the I still made individual dots (one flavour per dot), when serving I added the different flavours to the same bowl.
I have made a batch of yogurt dots and keep them stored in a plastic container in my freezer.
BOOK- Jackie Kennedy is one of my idols, she facinates me and has for years. For a few years, I had searched high and low for a copy of Jackie, Ethel, Joan: Women of Camelot. Roughly a year ago, I found it for Kindle and have read it several times since.
Prior to reading this book, I knew very little about Ethel or Joan and enjoyed that they both got as much 'page time' as Jackie. I enjoyed learning about them, as well as the relationships between the three sisters-in-law.
I love this book and know I will continue to re-read in the years to come. Highly recommended for anyone interested in Jackie Kennedy, the Kennedy family or even American history.
SONG- Another Country song this week...Canadian Girls by Dean Brody!
BODY- Last week I was at the store picking up some items, including a new toothbrush. I saw a pink toothbrush and I saw the yellow sale tag, so I grabbed it and threw it in my basket, not really paying any attention besides the fact it was on sale and pink.
I used the brush for a couple of days and I some how ended up pushing this little button and all of the sudden, the bristles started moving, like it was an electric toothbrush. I was intrigued. I went looking for the package and I realized that I had actually purchased Colgate Sonic toothbrush.
I brush my teeth a few times a day, so I use this brush a few times a day. I love this toothbrush! I love the sonic bristles (which does take some getting used to) and I love how clean my teeth fell after using.
Dental/oral care is important so I think it's worth it to invest in a good toothbrush. I think I've found my 'go to' tooth brush...that's something I never thought I'd say!
To be sad that Sean Avery is retiring- if the rumours are true. Although Sean hasn't played much in the NHL this season and a lot of people don't like him...I did.
That I'm starting to get frustrated that I don't have a closet. I literally do not have a closet. There are two in the entire house. And both are used for storage and neither is in my bedroom. I really want a closet. I thought I could live without one, but I was wrong.
To be happy that as of today, the first day that tickets were available for the Dinner Auction I'm organizing for work, we have 25% of the tickets sold! Without advertising that tickets were availabel or anything!
That I will FINALLY get around to taking down my Christmas tree this week! I keep my tree up until all of the gifts under it are gone. I had one gift for my little cousin that has been under the tree since before Christmas. I FINALLY had the chance to give it to her yesterday, so now my tree can come down!
To be desperate for auction items for work. I have now turned to e-mailinf/Facebooking people I went to high school with and haven't spoken to since. All of the money we make from our Dinner Auction comes strictly from the Auction portion of the evening. We do not make money off of the tickets. If you or someone you know is interested in donating to a Dinner Auction supporting the Alzheimer Society, please e-mail me dreamsandcolour@hotmail.com. Pretty, pretty, pretty please =)
There is nothing (or very little) more important than self love. We've all heard that if you don't love yourself, no one will- or some variation of that.
While you could do something today to show a little self love, why not write yourself a love letter.
Take the time to write to yourself about all the things you love. It can be anything from aspects of your physical appearance to personality traits to even things you've accomplished. Favourite memories can be included as well. Write all the things you would want someone else to write in a love letter to you.
When the letters done, put it in a sealed envelope and store it in a place you won't forget. Save this love letter to yourself for a day that you're feeling down, had a rough day or when you just need a little pick me up. Your love letter to yourself is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, make you feel better and loved.
i & i (idea & inspiration) taken from Brittany at Happy Brittany.
On Friday, a co-worker posted this on Facebook and tagged me in it.
I am one of those people, that when I type 'LOL' I am actually laughing- I laugh easily and a lot too. A different co-worker (who is right next door to my office), had two clients in her office with the door open, so when I saw this (while at work), it was a bit of a struggle to suppress my laughter.
I had to take film courses in university, where we analyzed the life out of movies. This really took the fun and enjoyment of movies for me.
I do have a hand full of movies that I love and watch at least once a year- which for me is a lot.
One of these movies is:
Plot summary taken from IMDB: Katherine Ann Watson has accepted a position teaching art history at the prestigious Wellesley College. Watson is a very modern woman, particularly for the 1950s, and has a passion not only for art but for her students. For the most part, the students all seem to be biding their time, waiting to find the right man to marry. The students are all very bright and Watson feels they are not reaching their potential. Altough a strong bond is formed between teacher and student, Watson's views are incompatible with the dominant culture of the college. Written by garykmcd
I love the message of this movie: don't be afraid to be yourself, consider all of your options and break away from traditional roles.
While I am by no means a feminist, or at least I don't consider myself one, this is a movie that always makes me feel optimistic, empowered, that I can accomplish anything.
Staring Julia Roberts, Kirsten Dunst, Julia Stiles, Maggie Gyllenhaal and Ginnifer Goodwin, with Marcia Gay Harden, Juliet Stevenson and Topher Grace.
Half an avocado- sliced length wise, with skin, pit removed
Salt
Pepper
To make:
Heat non-stick skillet over medium heat
Place avocado in skillet
Crack egg into the centre of the avocado, where hole (from pit) is
Cover skillet and cook for roughly 2 minutes or until egg is to your liking
Season with salt & pepper
Enjoy!
Notes:
Cooking the avocado softens it, almost like a custard- but so yummy!
The hole left from the pit might be small (depending on the size of the pit), so you might need to make the hole bigger with a spoon.
I do not like my egg yolk runny. The top of the yolk looked cooked, but underneath it was still runny. I have yet to master the correct cooking time so that all the yolk is cooked.
My dad, knowing my dislike for runny yolk, suggest separating the yolk and egg white. we placed the yolk in one half of the avocado (which he ate) and the egg white in the other half, which I ate. This worked well and was just as good.
BOOK- Last week was a trying week for me...one piece of discouraging news after another. To escape my life, I need an easy and FUNNY read. So, I turned to Chelsea Chelsea Bang Bang by Chelsea Handler.
I have mentioned many, many, many times before that I am a Chelsea Handler fan- her shows, her books, her comedy. You are all probably sick of hearing me talk about her and recommending her books. This will be the last one for awhile. I promise.
Anyway, back to the book. Like her other books, this book is a collection of essays. It's another light, quick, easy and funny read. If you're not a fan of Chelsea Handler's, give this book a pass. But if you like her, give the book a read. It's similar to all of her other books.
My favourite part of the book is when she convinced her boyfriend that she was responsible for the death of a friends dog (who didn't really die) and she orchestrated a fake funeral at the Pier for the dog. I also enjoyed the e-mails between her siblings about her dad.
Chelsea Chelsea Bang Band is my favourite Chelsea Handler book- maybe because I haven't read it a million times (yet), so the material is still 'new' and 'fresh' to me.
SONG- I watched GCB on Sunday (which I enjoyed!) and they were playing the song Country Girl (Shake It For Me) by Luke Bryan. Not only do I LOVE Luke Bryan, but I like this song too. It's just a really fun, get up and dance while you sing along song.
BODY- I am a little bit of an insomniac and the nights that I do sleep, I don't get much of it. Needless to say, I can, at times, be the victim of puffy eyes. I hear so many of my friends talking about Garnier's Anti-Puff Eye Roller, I just had to give it a try.
This product has become one of my Top 5 MUST beauty products and one of the few products I take with me when I travel. I know that there is caffeine and vitamins in the product, but I'm not really sure how it works I just know it works- which is good enough for me!
Just roll the product under yours eyes and the puffiness is eliminated! Super easy to use, super quick to work. There is like a clear...lotion?...I'm not sure what to call it...that comes out while rolling under your eyes. Like I said, it's clear, so you don't see it. Also, it's not gunky or thick so it quickly absorbs into your skin.
I HIGHLY recommend this product to anyone who suffers from puffiness under their eyes. This product also claims to help with dark circles. I (surprisingly) do not have dark circles under my eyes, so I'm not sure if the product works on them, but definitely works on puffiness under your eyes. If you haven't tried the Anti-Puff Roller, what are you waiting for?
To wonder how I was able to get a paper cut UNDER my finger nail. Not only am I not 100% sure how this happened, I bled a bit and it hurts A LOT.
That rewriting web content for my work website sucks the life out of me. There are so many words! I'm trying to cut back on the amount of text- which is hard because I'm not sure what information is super important and what is just filler for my co-workers pages.
That I need to get my butt into gear and order my March boxes from My Dream Sample Box.
To buy two more cardigans, even though I already own more than most people and waaay more than I actually need. Especially since these cardigans were 40% off, in colours I don't already own (Aqua and Lime) and are made from light weight material making them PERFECT for summer.
To be lusting after this paisley tote bag from Tommy Hilfiger:
Over the years, I have been given a lot of advice. Some of it great, some of it terrible, some of it thought provoking, very little of it life changing.
One of my favourite pieces of advice came from my beloved and much cherished grandfather. When I was in high school, he told me it was so important to take time for yourself everyday, even if it was just for a half an hour and all you did was read. It was important to spend time doing something for you, to spend time alone.
So why not take some time for yourself, if you don't already. Set aside at least half an hour a day that is just for you. Go 'off the grid', turning off your phone and stepping away from your computer. You can read, write, go for a walk, sit outside or even take a nap. Whatever you do, make sure it's something you WANT to do and that you enjoy yourself while doing it.
i & i (idea & inspiration) taken from Brittany at Happy Brittany.
I can't believe it's Sunday already! I hope that everyone had a GREAT weekend!
Last week, Sophia Grace & Rosie were on The Ellen Degeneres Show. These two are so adorable! If you don't know who they are, Google/Youtube them! They are two British cousins and were 'discovered' by their youtube video. Sophia Grace sings and Rosie is just there to give her confidence.
Anyway, Ellen sent them to Disneyland and it was just too cute not to share!
I mentioned a week or so ago that I would be participating in my first Blog Swap! I participated in the annual Pink Swap hosted by Hopsy at Monograms & Manicures.
I had a lot of fun shopping and picking out items for my partner, Ruthie over at Ruthie Relishing Life. She received my package earlier this week and the next day I received hers.
Here is what I sent her:
The bag was actually just to package everything in, but it also makes the perfect casual tote or beach bag. I also sent her a notebook, sour watermelon candies, cookbook, paper clips, cupcake candle, nail file, nail art pen in pink, natural lip balm, notepad & pen, pink and green nail polish.
It was a Pink Swap, so the theme was pink things, but my Ruthie told me her favourite colours are pink & green which is why I included some green items as well. Based on what Ruthie had told me about herself and some info about her I was able to gather by reading her entire blog, I tried to pick out items I felt she would like and use. Hopefully I was successful!
Here is what she sent me:
Adorable teacup- which I have already used!
Picture frame- which will be making an appearance in my office.
How cute are these pot holders???
Recipe Box, but I`m actually going to use it to store all of my stationary items (which are currently housed in an old Turtles Chocolate tin).
I don`t know what these are called... but they have the gel packets in them and you can either microwave or freeze the gel. You use them for pain relief... Anyway, they are owls! So cute!
Magnetic notepad...Also going to my office!
Tissue...which is actually perfect. I like to keep a pack in my bag and I had JUST ran out.
Decorative container...this is also going to my office. My desk is just covered in stuff and this is perfect to help me (hopefully) keep my desk a little cleaner and (appear) organized.
I had mentioned to my partner that I LOVE flamingos and she got me this! I was so excited that I obviously wasn't able to take a clear picture (and I tried several times). While I LOVED everything she sent...this was hands down my favourite! I can't wait to start growing my flamingo!
I had so much fun participating in this Blog Swap! I can't wait to participate in another one. I also love the fact that I was introduced to a new friend and a new blog to follow!
Ruthie and I were late additions to the Pink Swap, so thanks to Hopsy for allowing us to participate, even though we were late to sign up, and for organizing the Swap!
