Daily Jo Haiku

Simple

2011-11-17T22:40:00.000-07:00

Turtleneck: Joe Fresh
Skirt: C'est Sera
Leggings: ?? Old
Booties: Madden Girl
Necklace: Lia Sophia
Bracelet: Tiffany & Co., gifted


A certain dog decided she wanted to photobomb her mommy this a.m.!

Simple thoughts and clothes
consequence of busyness.
Mind is mush: Thursday.

For those of you hoping to read a thoughtful or coherent blog post today: perhaps another blogger on my blog roll can help you out. 'Cause today, my brain is tired from a long week at work, and my heart is heavy, due to finding out some sad news about some friends of mine. Needless to say, my brain is feeling kinda simple today. And I put together a simple outfit, mainly cause I had about 0.067% brain power to put towards outfit selection this morning.

So I've decided to do a brain dump post. Here goes.

- I can't remember the last time I wore boots under pants.This is just an observation - I'm not even wearing boots in this post.
- The black of this turtleneck is the perfect backdrop to showcase my new necklace.
- The first casualty of my busyness is my workouts. I only went to spin class once this week. Thankfully, the dog forces me to get out and walk in the evenings.
- I read that a person burns 20% more calories walking on snow than on regular pavement. Good to know, considering Mother Nature just dumped 15 cm of snow on us today!
- The best part of winter: hot chocolate and Baileys. You're welcome.

Dog house

2011-11-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Chambray shirt dress: H&M
Cardigan: Ricki's
Belt: Came with a skirt from Smart Set
Grey leggings: Jacob
Boots: Hushpuppies

Look! A ponytail! My hair is finally growing!

Some statements, once said
cannot be unspoke; it's done.
Instant, deep regret.

So where is your significant other sleeping tonight? Cause my husband's sleeping in the dog house tonight.

A transcript of last night's conversation should explain.

(Setting: in bed. I'm reading the November issue of Allure. Husband is flipping through flyers.)

Me: According to a recent study, apparently relationships in which the woman is skinnier than the man tend to be happier than when it's reversed.

Husband: (Half paying attention) . . . so, what? We're supposedly unhappy in our marriage then? That's bullsh-t.

Me: That's not what I'm . . . wait . . . what did you just say?

Husband: (Realizing what he's done. His brain is backtracking a mile a minute). Uh . . . no, like . . . everyone always says I'm so skinny . . . I'm always the "skinny" one, you know? In all my relationships I'm like . . . skinny . . .

Me: Buuuut not me, is what you're saying? Because you basically just told me you think I'm fatter than you.

Husband: (Looking very panicked). No, I was just saying that I'm saying that I have trouble putting on weight, right? It's hard for me to put on any weight, you know that!

Me: (Quite enjoying Husband's discomfort) So you're saying that you think YOU are skinny, and that I am fat?

Husband: No!! I don't think you're fat. Not at all, Jo.

Me: (Totally playing the devil's advocate at this point) . . . but you think I'm fatter than you?

Husband: We should end this conversation now. (Turns back to his reading).

Me: (Bemused). Well I'm glad we had this very honest discussion. (Give Husband a kiss).

(Setting: A few minutes later . . . )

Husband: . . . You know, there were probably a lot of variables in that experiment that weren't accounted for . . .

Me: (turns off light).Yeeeeeaaaaah . . . mmmkay, good night.

Husband: (in the dark) . . . I love you . . .

Me: (silence, stifling a laugh).

True story.

Sweater hug

2011-11-03T11:00:00.000-06:00

T-shirt: Jacob
Cable knit sweater: Zara

Pants: Joe Fresh
Flats: Lacoste

A hug in wool blend
this fisherman sweater gives.
Warmth for a sick day.

Ever have those days where your body aches and you just can't seem to get enough sleep? That's called "everyday" for me lately. Since getting back from Greece, I feel like I've been fighting off something. Sooner or later my immune system will raise it's white flag of surrender. Till then, I'm suffering silently. Well, not so silently, since I just blogged about it, but you catch what I'm throwing down.

This fisherman's sweater from Zara is perrrrfect for those days where I feel I need extra comfort. It's super warm and quite soft. Every time I put it on it's like a little sweater hug. I love the slightly mannish styling of it, and the fun brass buttons. I pretty much love everything in Zara lately, though. Which is why I'm currently reworking my household budget to pay down some of the damage done to my MasterCard as of late.

In other news, I dressed my dog as Batman this Halloween. I love how she's taking it so seriously in this photo. I took her to the dog park dressed like this and she was a huge hit. She truly looked like a caped crusader with her cape flying behind her as she ran!

What did you dress your pets up as this year?

Batdog

One down, 27 left

2011-10-30T20:17:00.000-06:00

Chambray shirt: Joe Fresh
Scarf: Simons
Bracelets: Smart Set
Pants: RW&Co

Two weeks no blog posts
I've neglected my readers.
Maybe why one left!

Hello dear readers. I know it's been awhile since I last posted. In fact, so long that I lost one of my readers! If you're reading this, THANK YOU for waiting around for me. I hope this outfit was worth the wait!

So what have I been busy doing? Well, my work has recently undergone many changes, and as such, I've had to work long hours to try to get our new politicians and management caught up. My husband has also been working long, hard hours (like 12 hour days) so the housework has piled up. And then there's the regular stuff of walking the dog, trying to maintain a workout schedule and cooking healthy meals. Also, my mother in law just flew in this weekend. So, you know, something had to give, and that something is this humble blog. But I'm back tonight, so let's get caught up.

This awesome chambray shirt is a recent purchase from Joe Fresh. I had to drive totally out of the way to get it, since my local Superstore didn't have my size. But let me tell ya, it was well worth it! Since I got it 2 weeks ago, I've worn it three times! It's my new fall go-to shirt, and it only cost me $29 to boot.

This outfit was worn with my Hushpuppie boots (seen here) to brunch at my sister in law's place, and then to the dog park. At both locations, my boots attracted lots of attention! My sister in law tried to buy the same boots last year after seeing mine and was unable to find her size; she's still sad about it. At the dog park, a random lady stopped me to ask me about my boots and demanded to know where I got them (answer: Montreal, last season). It was a good day for these puppies (no pun intended).

What's new with my trusty 27 readers? ;)

Fall shorts

2011-10-17T21:25:00.001-06:00

Cowl neck sweater: Ricki's
Tank: RW&Co
Shorts: Simons
Rabbit fur belt: Simons
Tights: Winners
Shoes: Jules and James

Dog days are over
but shorts are seasonless when
paired with opaque tights.

I am a big fan of the fall/winter shorts. Unfortunately, the climate in my part of the world doesn't allow me to wear shorts in winter, so I have to get all my shorts-wearing done in the fall!

This pair of shorts is from Simons, one of my favorite retailers in Canada. Based out of Quebec, they actually ship across Canada (free if you spend more than $50). I have tons of stuff from Simons, and most of it is good quality. I highly suggest my fellow Canadians give it a go.

Anyway, these shorts are perfect for fall. What you can't see in these photos is that they have three buttons on each side, making the shorts sailor-style. I love that they're charcoal grey tweed - they go with everything! Including this mustard top I bought for 40% off during Customer Appreciation Days at Rickis.

If you haven't given fall shorts/winter shorts a try, I suggest you do! Here are some tips that:

- The shorts should be a heavier, denser, winter-grade material. Think plaid, thick denim or menswear types of shorts.

- Always pair with tights. Semi-sheer and opaque work best, but I think textured/patterned tights would be fun, too. Generally, the shorter the shorts, the more opaque your tights should be.

- Keep covered up top. You're showing a lot of leg, so balance your silhouette by wearing a billowy blouse or a roomy sweater.

- Pair winter shorts with heels.

- Generally, any outfit that can be worn with a pencil skirt can be substituted with shorts!

How are you wearing your winter shorts?

Stripes and skirt

2011-10-15T13:53:00.000-06:00

Blouse: Gap
Shirt: Target Apparel
Skirt: C'est Sera
Shoes: Jules & James
Socks: Who knows?

Success formula
is a shirt, sweater and skirt
Fail safe dressing!

There are some weeks where I can't be bothered to come up with creative outfits. This was one of them. We recently underwent some political changes at work, and now I have a new Minister and a new Deputy Minister in my portfolio. This has made for an uncertain work environment, and long days. Which is why I love simple work outfit formulas.

My recent favorite: button down shirt, patterned or textured sweater, and a skirt. Finish off with some fun shoes and presto! A work-ready outfit. Not gonna lie - I wore a version of this outfit 2 out of 4 working days this week!

What are your tried and true work formulas?

Lumberjack chic

2011-10-09T17:17:00.001-06:00

Chambray shirt: Old Navy
Scarf: Simons
Pants: RW&Co
Socks: Husband's
Shoes: Jules & James
Cross body bag: Matt and Nat
Bracelets: Smart Set

Fourteen days away

and return to full-on fall;

Summer has gone now.

Hello faithful readers! I'm back. And it's been super, super busy, both at work and in life. Greece was wonderful (and I promise to have a photo recap soon).

I managed to snap a photo of what I wore to church today. I like to call it Lumberjack Chic. It will likely catch on in heavily forested parts of Canada and the U.S. Or where people like to look chic and woodsy at the same time.

So what did I miss while I was away?

And I'm off!

2011-09-15T15:31:00.000-06:00

via Big Stock Photo

My lovely readers -

Husband and I are off to Greece for two lovely weeks, for some much needed R&R. Be back soon with outfit photos and a recap.

Love,
Jo

Feathers and pleather

2011-09-11T14:50:00.000-06:00

Jacket: Jack by BB Dakota
White tank: Only
Grey ballet sweater: Simons
Jeans: Gap
Flats: DKNY
Earrings: Locale

Comfy favorites
make fall's fashions so fun.
Jeans, feathers, pleather.

You may have noticed I've been absent from Blogland for a week. That's because here in the Great White North, we've experienced a very uncommon Indian summer - 10 days of hot, hot temperatures into the fall. And since I'm pretty much sick of my summer clothing, I wasn't very enthusiastic about taking photos of my shorts and Ts.

Imagine my excitement when this morning we experienced fall weather - finally time to break out some of my fall weather favorites! I've been busy shopping the past month, and now I'm excited to show off some of my new fall favorites.

First - this black Jack by BB Dakota moto jacket. I bought this bad boy from Modcloth a few weeks ago and I love, love, love it. It's pleather, but the quality of the jacket is great. For $49.99, you can't go wrong, really. I'm looking forward to wearing this over some of my summer dresses to transition into the autumn.

Next - this grey ballet sweater I bought from Simons. I love the slouchy cut of this versatile sweater. The lightweight knit of it makes it perfect for layering. I plan to wear it over a button up for a preppy twist, and with skinny jeans for a fun and comfy weekend look. I love this sweater so much I've worn it three times since it arrived 10 days ago!

These jeans - which I misidentified in my previous post - are actually 1969 Gap Perfect Bootcut Jeans. Can I say - these are the comfiest jeans I've ever owned. They are super soft premium denim and I love them so much I plan on getting a darker pair in a longer length the next time they are on sale. Love!!

Last, but not least, are these super cute feather earrings that I recently bought from Locale. Not only are they totally on-trend, they're so very light and match everything, They're my new favorite earrings :)

What are your favorite fall finds?

Like the first day of school

2011-09-01T21:54:00.001-06:00


Cream hooded cardigan: Zara (gifted by my sister) Tank: RW&Co Crop pants: Ricki's Bracelet: Gifted Flats: DKNY

September the first
and children are back in school
fresh clothes, fresh faces.

To me, the first of September feels more like the start of a new year than January 1 ever has. The return of autumn still feels like the start of a new school year. I haven't been in grade school in a coon's age, but the moment the leaves fall, my thoughts turn to new clothes and new beginnings, just as it used to when I was 10.

When I was a kid, I used to plan out my entire first week of school outfits. On Day 1, I would wear my second favorite outfit, and on Day 2, my favorite. Why? My pre-teen self rationalized that everyone would be too busy finding their new classrooms on the first day of school to admire my new NKOTB sweatshirt. And so, Jordan, Joey and the gang would have to wait until the second day of school to make their debut on my sweatshirt.

Today was the first day of school for kids in my area. To mark this occasion, (and go back in time!) I did what I always used to do and put on my second best fall outfit for the first day of school!*

This new cable knit cardigan is a new fall favorite. My sister bought it for me as a birthday gift. It is the most cozy sweater, complete with a (faux) fur-lined hood! I can't wait to wear this with skinny jeans as the weather grows colder.

What did you wear for your proverbial first day of school?

* This actually isn't my second favorite outfit. I love all my outfits equally nowadays :)

Fall preview

2011-08-28T14:24:00.000-06:00


Tank: Kersh Blazer: Ricki's Jeans: Gap Scarf: Gifted Sandals: Spring

I'm looking forward
only to fall fashions and
not cool fall weather.

If you follow my blog at all, you'll know that we've had a very cool and icky summer. My memories of the summer of '11 will be filled with rain, mosquitoes and humidity. (And the half marathon, too I suppose!)

So it may come as a surprise that I'm very much looking forward to the fall. But really, what I'm most anticipating is fall fashions! I can't wait to get into the faux fur trend, long vests and biker jackets over feminine dresses.

I'm also majorly loving the equestrian trend for fall. I bought this comfy grey blazer and this pair of 1969 Gap Curvy jeans so to update my jean collection.

What fall trends are you most looking forward to?

P.S. - My hubby says I look mean in the second photo. I diasgreed and decided I like a more serious-looking Jo :)

Birthday!

2011-08-18T19:46:00.001-06:00


Shirt: RW&Co Tank top: Joe Fresh Pants: RW&Co Shoes: Aldo Necklace: Smart Set

My birthday suit's here
and no, I'm not naked like
I was years ago :)

Yesterday was my 31st birthday! I celebrated with Starbucks in the morning, a lemon meringue and an apple pie (made by my coworker) at break time, lunch with my parents, my sister and nephew, and then incredibly tasty Thai food with my husband in the evening. What a great low-key b-day :)

If you're anything like me, you're shameless when it comes to b-day freebies. Did you know that when you sign up e-newsletters from some businesses, you get free swag? Sephora gives you a free product the week of your special day (this month it was a 100 ml bottle of this) and Starbucks sends you a postcard for a free drink. RW&Co gives you a 25% discount the week of your birthday, while Old Navy gives you $10 off any purchase over $50. This year, I took full advantage of my RW&Co discount and bought this blouse I wore for my birthday. I can't wait to mix this top this fall!

Am I missing any b-day discounts? If so, please let me know! :)

2 Dresses

2011-08-16T21:45:00.000-06:00

Dress: Bought from Beyond the Rack

Dress: Beyond the Rack
Shoes: Nine West
Clutch: Bijoux Terner


Shirt (on him): Le Chateau Tie: Simons Belt: Simons Pants: RW&Co Shoes: Steve Madden

Two dresses, one day
Double opportunity
for adult dress-up!

My aunt got married this past Saturday. I think her story is quite remarkable. She met her now-husband about 13 years ago, while in her mid-30s. They started dating off and on 12 years ago, and finally decided to get married (first marriage for both)! This is a testament of how love can find us anywhere, anytime.

It's tradition in Chinese weddings for female guests to wear a different dress to the ceremony than to the reception. I'm not sure where this tradition came from, but I personally love it! Who wouldn't love a double opportunity to dress up??

Both these lovely dresses were bought via Beyond the Rack. It's an awesome website that sells verified designer clothes at a major discount. Best part? They're Canadian (but ship to the U.S., also). If you'd like an invitation, click here.

What are some of your cultural wedding traditions??

Hipster hat

2011-08-14T11:37:00.000-06:00

Hat: BCBG
Tank: Smart Set
Scarf: Gifted
Shorts and belt: BB Dakota, Modcloth
Shoes: Lacoste

Labels limit us
to a certain look or feel.
Just dress how you want!

The other day, my brother and sister-in-law declared that they think they're becoming hipsters. They've really gotten into thrifting, my sister in law has these awesome nerd glasses, and they've recently purchased a record player to enjoy their growing record collection. I guess, by definition, this makes them hipsters.

Just a day later, I found this awesome hat at BCBG and loved it at first sight. It's just what I've been looking for in anticipation of my trip to Greece. It fit my giant cranium perfect, and at a clearance price of $18, it was a steal. So why was I hesitating? I guess it's cause I assumed that a hat like this belongs to hipsters - a group I don't necessarily identify with.

This got me to thinking - do we sometimes shy away from cute items of clothing because we think they don't "fit" into the labels we place onto ourselves? If so, are we missing great opportunities to explore new versions of ourselves? What am I missing by passing up items that I think are too cool/hip/trendy for me?

So long story short, I bought the hat and I love it. I thought, f*ck it, I like this hat so why shouldn't I get it? As so many more accomplished bloggers have pointed out, there are no fashion rules anymore. If you love it, it fits and you can afford it, why shouldn't you give it a try?

Since I've bought this fedora, I've worn it three times, and always without any trepidation if it "fit" into the label I put onto myself. And the result - I LOVE it!!!! It's my new summer staple. I'm so glad I decided to pull the trigger.

What have you bought lately that challenges you?

Life in technicolor

2011-08-09T21:27:00.000-06:00


Tank top: Old Navy Vest: Smart Set Belt: Levi's Skirt: Modcloth Shoes: Expressions Scarf: Gifted

Life is colorful
so why are our houses
so devoid of life?

Readers, meet my bright green room. Originally it was meant to be our dog's room, but for some reason, she just hasn't taken to it (too green?).This bright green room is one of many colorful rooms in our house, including our grey and blue living room, my purple wardrobe room, cranberry colored kitchen and sky blue dining room.

The house I grew up in had white walls in every room. It wasn't until I moved out on my own that I discovered the joy of color.

First, color crept into my home in the form of pillows. Then photos on the wall. And then eventually, my walls.

I would say that something similar has happened to my wardrobe. It started with a basic pieces like blouses, trousers and cardigans in white, black, and khaki. Now every color of the rainbow is represented in my accessories, skirts, pants, blazers and more.

Color has a way of creeping into our lives. How has color crept up on you?

Wardrobe room update

2011-08-04T20:00:00.000-06:00

Construction goes on
in my wardrobe room of dreams
Patience, Jo, patience.

So remember my wardrobe room? Work is progressing - slowly. After putting in hardwood flooring and painting it purple and off-white, My husband has put up the base of the closet shelving. Now we're in the process of filling up the base with shelving and configuring the closet so that I can start to move stuff in.

But, of course, other things (such as this little sweetie) are taking up a lot of our free time. Not that I'm complaining. They say good things come to those who wait, right? If that's true, my closet should be off the hook! ;)

More is less

2011-08-01T11:12:00.000-06:00


Sunglasses: Guess Shirt: Joe Fresh Shorts: Banana Republic Sandals: Naturalizer

Sometimes less is more
but in this case more is less
How confusing, right?

The temps are finally normalizing and we're getting to experience summer! And with hotter weather, my thoughts turn to clothing that's cool, light and breezy. Who'd have thought that a long-sleeved cotton shirt would be one of my top picks?

Truth is, any clothing that's made of natural fibers and is slightly loose will keep you just as cool as a sleeveless shirt. These chambray shorts and cotton shirt were perfect for a warm day.

Now if only this warm spell would continue!

Dog days of summer

2011-07-31T10:02:00.000-06:00

In case you're wondering why I haven't blogged lately . . . meet Jersey! We just adopted her from the Humane Society yesterday and she's keeping us busy :)

She is a 2 and a half year old Rottweiler/Shepherd cross. She's very well-behaved and we lover her to bits already! Unfortunately, she takes up a considerable amount of time to train so my blogging will be sporadic for the next while. But look at that pretty face - she's well worth it, don't you think?

Summer Scarf

2011-07-17T14:57:00.001-06:00

Tank: F21
Skirt: Joe Fresh
Scarf: Gifted
Earrings: ? Old
Bangles: Suzy Shier
Shoes: Chinese Laundry

Summer uniform:
a tank top and cute short skirt.
shoes and scarf add zest.

I was never a fan of the summer scarf. I was a very late adopter with this trend, even though it was popping up all over Hollywood and blogs last year.

But the past few days, summer weather has returned and so too has my go-to summer uniform: a tank top and cute skirt. It's an easy combo that I would characterize a bit like Reese Witherspoon - cute and polished, but it in need of a bit of personality.

So this morning I decided to add scarf for a change. Add an armful of silver bangles, some big earrings and platform heels and ta-da! A fun outfit, perfect for a casual business brunch and then a walk down a trendy street to look at local art.

How do you zhush up your summer outfits?

Like PB & J

2011-07-13T20:21:00.000-06:00

Tank: Old Navy
Cardigan: Suzy Shier
Pants: Joe Fresh
Shoes: Lacoste

PB and jelly,
Michael Scott and The Office
Some duos just work.

These new red Lacoste shoes were begging for a nautical-inspired outfit. What better than stripes and a neutral grey?

I gotta say - I am SO glad that one one of the themes this summer is nautical. In fact, I'm loving the look so much that I am actually considering packing my backpack in all nautical-inspired looks when we go to Greece this fall.

Oh yeah, by the way, Hubby and I are going to Greece for two weeks in September!! I can't believe I haven't blogged about that yet. We'll be going to Athens, Mykonos and Santorini. Even though we'll be staying at nice hotels, we've decided to take our huge backpacks out of storage and pack everything on our backs, for convenience's sake. It will make it easier for our trips on the ferries and getting through Athens on public transportation.

Have you been to Greece? I'd love to hear your travel tips!

Oh hello. It's yellow.

2011-07-12T18:29:00.002-06:00

White button down: Jacob
Yellow cardigan: Jacob
Pants: Jacob
Mary Janes: DKNY
Belt: Smart Set

New shoes and yellow
This was the theme for the day
Easy to dress me!

Today's wardrobe choice was super easy.

Number 1: participate in Everybody, Everywear. So wear yellow.

Number 2: wear these awesome new Mary Janes. I bought these babies over the weekend in an incredibly 2 for 1 sale! I got these DKNY Mary Janes and a pair of Lacoste red deck shoes for $72 including tax. Score!

Number 3: ensure everything I'm wearing is from Jacob. OK, I'm lying. I didn't actually mean for that to happen. But it did. And I'm OK with it.

There's something about the light

2011-07-11T12:00:00.000-06:00

Checkered top: Joe Fresh
Red cropped pants: Jacob
Necklace and hoop earrings: Smart Set
Shoes: Expressions

Warm light falls across
a purple wall, creating
a moment of peace.

This weekend was anything but peaceful. In fact, it was quite the opposite.

Saturday morning I awoke to the sounds of a hydraulic nail gun, the squeal of a table saw and the rhythmic sounds of hammering. Bless their hearts, my husband and our neighbour were really trying their very best to keep the sounds of their hardwood installation quiet. But in a bungalow, concealing construction noises are as effective as using a band-aid to repair a broken arm. Not so much.

But it was really worth it. As you can see, my wardrobe room is coming along . . . slowly.

That's where these photos were taken - in my in-progress wardrobe room. On Sunday afternoon, I opened the door to the room and saw how perfectly the sun was falling across the grey-purple wall. It nearly took my breath away.

The light filtered by the tree in the front yard . . . the gleaming hardwood floor that symbolized to me the love and sacrifice of my husband . . . the feeling of utter peace when I walked into "my" room . . . it was a perfect moment.

So perfect that I think it inspired me to take the best photos I think I've ever taken for this blog. Amazing what a little inspiration will do, right?

Where have you found unusual inspirations?

Stripes and cowboy boots

2011-07-10T18:54:00.000-06:00

White oxford: Gap
Striped T: Gap
Jeans: Rock and Republic
Boots: Not sure of the brand but they are from Brown's

Rain brings mosquitoes,
Mosquitoes bring out long sleeves.
I miss the summer.

Ugh. The rain continues. And when the rain stops, it's muggy and the mosquitoes hatch. There's no winning.

On another note, I've decided to wear my little cowboy boots, as a nod to the Calgary Stampede, the world's richest rodeo (or so they say), Even though it's held about 3 hours south of where I am, it's nearly impossible not to catch the Stampede fever every July. All I'm missing is my white Stetson (look how cute William and Kate look in them!). But I figured it would be a little much for errand running on a Saturday, right? ;)

Hunter boots and shorts

2011-07-09T12:00:00.000-06:00

T-shirt: Jacob
Jacket: Old Navy
Shorts: Suzy Shier
Bag: Samsara by Mat and Nat
Boots: Hunter
Umbrella: Who knows!

Shorts and rubber boots

Who would have thought this would be

a summer outfit?

If this is summer weather, then Western Canada is getting ripped off majorly.

A few notes about this look:

#1: This isn't exactly what I wore to work. I wore the same striped T-shirt, but I wore it with cuffed jeans and sandals. I had full intentions to wear the same outfit that evening to meet friends for drinks, but as I was walking from work, I saw a girl wearing the same Hunter boots as I have. At the last minute, I decided to wear the Hunter boots, but with shorts instead of skinny jeans. Why? Because it's summer, and I'm summer is for shorts, regardless of the fact that there's a severe thunderstorm warning in place for my city. I'm rebellious like that.

#2: I rediscovered some MAC Studiofix in the back of my makeup drawer the other day, and decided to put it on. Based on the above photos though, I'm not sure if it's a bit too orangey, or if it was Picnik's photo editing that made it appear more orangey than it really was. Jury's still out.

#3: This is a new T-shirt from Jacob. I have been pining over it since it came out this spring, but the $29.95 price tag always stopped me. Last week, Jacob finally had a 50% off sale, and I ran out during my coffee break to grab the shirt. Lo and behold - the city centre location did not have it in my size anymore. I had to drive all the way to the south side of the city to get it, but it was so worth it! I love it to bits and can already envision it with many items from my closet. WINNING!

Hope you're all having better weather than we are!

My 100th post!

2011-07-07T20:10:00.000-06:00

Tank top: Banana Republic outlet
Linen pants: Banana Republic outlet
Belt: Came with Modcloth shorts
Sandals: Chinese Laundry
Bracelet: Tiffany & Co. (gift from husband)

One hundred glimpses
in my clothes and word-filled life
It has been so fun!

Congratulations, you've made it to my 100th post! Whoo-hoo! Other blogger's I've read have hosted giveaways or made a big announcement to their readers. Me? Well, I decided to wear this outfit and then water my flowers. You're welcome.

In all seriousness, I've had a blast getting back into blogging. I have loved "meeting" so many of you, and I look forward to my next 100 posts (and hope you do, too!). I love you all. xxx

O Canada!

2011-07-03T13:47:00.000-06:00

T-shirt: Gap
Scarf: Land's End (won through a giveaway)
Capris: Jacob
Sandals: Merrill

O my Canada!
My beautiful home country
I'm a proud Canuck.

Happy Canada Day!! I hope all my fellow Canadians enjoyed their day.

I spent the day at one of our beautiful parks, enjoying the wonderful sun. We played volleyball, bocce, throwing around the football, and of course, eating! We got so caught up in having fun that we forgot about taking outfit photos. This was the only photo I had that showed my entire outfit, and I had to crop out the girl in the photo (one of the girls I mentor) since I did not ask her parents' permission to post it on my blog. So this is whatcha get :)

What were you up to for Canada Day? What are my American friends doing for the 4th of July?

What to wear to a summer festival

2011-06-30T22:10:00.000-06:00

Tank dress:F21
Jean jacket: Old Navy
Sandals: Geox
Scarf: Modcloth
Cross body bag: Samsara by Mat and Nat
Gold bangles: Suzy Shier
Wooden bracelet: Old, I can't remember

I'm dressed for the 'fest
Admiring fine art, music
With my cute husband.

Tonight was date night with my husband, and we took advantage of one of our many summer festivals. Though the weather was overcast and threatened to pour on us throughout the evening, we were glad we went. We're not major art people, but we enjoyed supporting local artists and artisans, and wandering around the square where it was held.

This has to be the easiest outfit to wear to a summer festival. This tank dress is so easy and comfy. Paired with a colorful scarf, jean jacket and cross-body bag, and you have the perfect go-to outfit.

What are you wearing to your favorite summer festival?

The Long and the Short of It

2011-06-29T20:36:00.000-06:00

White oxford shirt: Gap
Jean shorts: Levi's
Scarf as belt: Jacob
Shoes: Nine West
Clutch: Bijoux Terner
Bracelet: Stella and Dot
Sunglasses: Nine West

Long sleeves, short denim
What am I to wear lately
In varying temps?

Summer may have technically started last Tuesday, but news of this has not reached Western Canada. Recently, our weather has varied between bouts of extreme warmth to extreme rain. How can I dress for this weather when it’s so unpredictable?

I’ve had to be creative. This outfit is a good example. Here, a long sleeved oxford shirt provides coverage if the weather suddenly cools down, but the shorts give me enough cooling for the when the sun decides to make a guest appearance. A golden silk scarf as a belt and a silky clutch caps off the look.

How are you dressing for unpredictable summer weather?

Salmon and Quinoa

2011-06-25T12:00:00.002-06:00

Hot temps, easy meals.
Summertime calls for fresh food
made simply, delish!

Summertime and the eating is easy. Around our place, our meals get simpler as the temperatures rise. The availability of fresh ingredients makes it so easy to prepare beautiful food simply. That was the case when I made this lovely meal last week.

Salmon is a staple around our house, but quinoa (pronounces keen-wah) is a relatively new addition. Quinoa is a grain that is chock full of protein and fibre, and is super easy to cook. It can be used in sweet and savory dishes - or both, like this recipe that I made up.

Salmon with dill
1 1lb salmon filet
1/4 white onion, sliced thinly
1/2 lemon, sliced
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried dill
Salt and pepper
2 Tbsp butter, cut into small cubes
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a rectangular baking dish with cooking spray and lay out the salmon filet on top. Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder and dried dill over the filet. Lay the white onion and lemons across the filet and dot with butter. Bake for 25 minutes or until the salmon is flaky.

Summer Sweet and Savory Quinoa
1/2 cup quinoa
1 cup chicken stock
1/3 cup grapes, halved
1 pink grapefruit, sectioned
Small handful of cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1/2 orange
2 tsp olive oil

Combine quinoa and chicken stock in a small pan. Heat to boiling, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and fluff. Transfer to a glass bowl.

When the quinoa has cooled to room temperature, add the grapes, grapefruit pieces and cilantro and combine. Just before serving, add orange juice and olive oil and stir.

Bon appetit ;)

Classicly casual

2011-06-24T08:43:00.000-06:00

Denim jacket: Old Navy
Tank: Joe Fresh
Skirt: H&M
Sandals: Naturalizer
Necklace: Stella and Dot

Stripes and blue denim
Classicly American
for this Canadian.

I never thought this denim jacket would become a staple in my closet. Years ago, I bought it for $20 at Old Navy. I remember thinking at the time that it seemed like a good deal, but it was purchased with no intention to wear it beyond a few seasons.

Fast forward 6 years and this baby has outlasted jeans, black trousers and oxford shirts in my closet. There's something about the classic cut that just never seems to go out of style. I've worn this jacket with casual day dresses, dark denim, khaki pants, shorts and more. This denim jacket is like the perfect dance partner - it supports its partner without overshadowing it.

So it's natural that I paired it with this new striped skirt from H&M. I love the overall look. It's clean, classic and casual, all in one.

Edge to Edge half-marathon recap

2011-06-23T19:27:00.000-06:00

I finished!

Happy, excited
many emotions at work
My run is complete!

So it's been more than a week since I ran the Edge to Edge half marathon, and I've had plenty of time to think about what I did right, and what I could improve on. But before I get into my debrief, here's a quick recap of my results:

Official time: 2:30:46
Chip time: 2:30:41
Pace: 7:09/ km
Finished #194 out of 250 runners

Tank top: lululemon
Warm up jacket: lululemon
Running capris: Adidas
Sneakers: Nike
Hydration pack: Fuel Belt

Let me start by saying that my goal was to run the race in 2:20. However, upon seeing the hilly course, I knew that 2:20 would be a very difficult goal to attain. Standing at the start line, I wasn't sure what to expect of the run, really. Just finishing the challenging course would be nice, I thought wryly.

I couldn't complain about the temperatures at all. It was about 14 degrees Celcius and the skies were overcast. No rain in sight, which was a relief. I debated wearing the white zip-up I have on in this photo, but decided against it at the last minute. I knew I'd only wear it for a short while, and then be burdened with it bouncing around my waist for a good part of the race. Not fun. So I opted to go with just my sports bra and my white sleevless lululemon top. It was a little chilly at the start line, so most likely my headlights were on full blast (what - TMI?).

At the start line, I was quite surprised to see such a small group. The run can accommodate up to 400 registrants (it is a small community-led run) but the corral was not nearly as full as I expected. When they corralled us in, I somehow ended up at the front of the pack. In runninig etiquette, the front of pack is usually reserved for the elite runners, so I decided to move farther back after my hubby snapped this photo.

So off I went! Quick, quick, quick my little legs carried me - a little too quickly, actually. At the 2K point, I checked my pace and realized that I was running waaaaaaaay too quickly. I gradually eased up and watched runner after runner zip past me. This was the hardest part - letting others pass me. But like life, you can't get caught up in what the other person in the other lane is doing. You have to do your own thing. You've got to run your own race, and race like you've practiced. Life-wise, keeping up with the others will only wear you out. Running-wise, keeping up with the others will deplete your energy stores and throw you off your game.

The course, as it turned out, was, as expected, a hilly one. The first 8K of the run was on a paved bike path that runs out of the town of Ucluelet, to the fork of the highway. Imagine undulating hills, one after another, after another. After a turn down a gravel road, you run about 6K on the highway, back towards the town. A slight right turns us onto the entry point of the Wild Pacific Trail, where we ran another 6K on the groomed hiking trail. More hills. And lots and lots of ferns. (This is an important detail for later). We finished the run with a hilly round-about 1K route back to the start point to cross the finish line.

It took about 5K for me to settle into my comfortable race pace. At that point, the hills weren't as daunting as they were challenging. I was totally OK in my zone, listening to my iPod and enjoying the scenery.

At the 8K turnaround point, a quick check on my watch reveals I'm right on track to finish in 2:20. Sweet!, I think. I only have to keep this same pace and I can do it.

The run back towards the trailhead (kilometers 9 to 14) were the best in my run. I was feeling confident, my legs were feeling good and I was mentally feeling strong. Even though there were hills getting back to the town, this time I had a better attitude towards them.

But then it all fell apart on the trail. I hadn't realized how steep the trail would be; nor how treacherous the trail was. Though it is a "groomed" trail, I wasn't used to running through the bushes on such a narrow path. The feel of the loose rocks under my feet was totally foreign. The steep inclines also meant having to face the steep declines, and at times I had to turn sideways to run down the embankments so as not to fall. Jutting tree roots were a hazard, and I once even tripped on one, but caught myself before being injured.

And the ferns. Oh my God, the ferns. There were soooooo many of them. Hanging into my path, hogging up precious space on the route.

Did I mention I'm allergic to ferns? More on this later.

Back to the trail. Running on the trail was so disorienting. I had no idea as to my pace, nor how long I'd run. I was feeling panicky, wondering when, if EVER, I'd ever be done! My mental game fell apart and my confidence ebbing away with each demanding incline.

Finally I encountered a volunteer on the path. "How much longer?" I asked, my tone pleading.

"4K!" he said with a big smile. A look on my watch confirmed the worst. 2:20 was not happening. At least, not today.

My overly-cautious gait had caused me to slow my pace considerably. I clearly hadn't done as much hill training as I should have for the race, and I could feel my muscles fatiguing. Soon I was walking much more than I had ever wanted to. I felt so wasted and so sad at that moment. And I was having trouble catching my breath, too . . .

Accepting my fate, I decided to forget about my time and just finish the race with dignity. I ran/walked the last of the trail and headed into the town for the final (hilly) leg.

The remaining part of my run was uneventful. At one point, I must have looked completely exhausted because a volunteer cheered at me, "You're almost there! 3 more blocks - all downhill!"

Downhill?!? 3 blocks?!?! A major adrenaline kick rushed through me and I was booking it! I even passed a runner at this point in the game.

With the finish line in sight, I kicked it into high gear and sprinted to the finish line. I siliently thanked myself for sprinting the final 100 m of every long run during my training. It was paying off big time now!

Not a very flattering photo but my hubby tried!

I crossed the finish line at 2:30:46 to the wide smile of my proud husband! He took this photo of me just after I'd crossed. A volunteer crowned me with my finisher's medal and I officially became a half-marathoner.

After a quick congratulatory hug, I took my customary walk to slow my breathing and catch my breath. Only this time, my breathing was irregular. Ragged and laboured, my breaths were coming out shallow and rapid. Something was not right.

My husband recognized this right away and rushed me to the medics. A nurse seated me right away and had me take deep breaths with my head between my legs as she checked my pulse and blood pressure. I later learned they were checking to make sure I wasn't going into cardiac arrest, which can happen in rare instances. But I wasn't. I just couldn't breathe.

Finally the doctor came in. By this time I wasn't able to speak at all, my throat was so tight. My husband explained my pre-existing allergy to ferns and the doctor listened to my lungs and then shined a little light down my throat. Sure enough, I had breathed in too many fern spores and was having an allergic reaction in my throat. My poor throat was inflammed, red and raw - essentially it had swollen shut. No wonder I'd had trouble catching my breath during my walk breaks.

The doc told me the only treatment was good ol' fashioned Benadryl. For some reason, they didn't have any in the clinic (?!) so my hubby had to run to the drugstore to get me some. The other half of my Rx: rest. That I could do!

After being treated, I helped myself to post-race snacks and finally allowed myself to allow the reality of my accomplishment to set in. I'd finished! Five months of training and I was finally a half-marathon finisher. I was proud that I had, quite literally and figuratively, come so far.

But, silly as it is, I still felt a little off-put. The sweet success of finishing my first half marathon was soured by the fact that I hadn't finished as fast as I thought (and knew) I could. This irked me and didn't allow me to fully celebrate my accomplishment. Deep down, I was still wanting my 2:20.

This 2:20 has been sticking in my side like a bad stitch. I have to do something about it, or I'll never forgive myself. So . . . I've decided to run another half marathon!

This time it will take place in August here in my hometown. The Intact Canadian Derby Half-Marathon is billed as being fast and flat, and this time, there will be NO deadly ferns!!! I am committed to busting my ass to try to speed up my time for this run, since I quite possibly could die of frustration if I don't make 2:20 this time! Expect another half-marathon update this August :)

Vacation recap

2011-06-19T12:55:00.000-06:00

Vancouver Island
is like a lush paradise
viewed through my camera.

Hello girls! (and boys?). I'm back, and I have some pretty pictures from my mini vacation. I feel like this is show and tell! I'm not the best teller, so perhaps I'll just let the photos show you what we've been up to.

My hubby and I drove from our home to Vancouver Island and back over the course of a week. It took about 17 hours (including ferry time) to get to the Island, and an additional 3 hours to reach Ucluelet, where my half marathon would take place. For the sake of brevity, I'll save my recap of the half marathon for another post. This post will be mainly about beautiful Vancouver Island, a lush peaceful island where the people are laid-back and friendly, and the scenery breath-taking. And outfits, of course, since this is still my blog, after all!

On the road from Alberta to B.C. That's our majestic Rocky Mountians. Lovely, aren't they?


Dress: F21 Scarf: Gifted Sandals: Steve Madden Sunglasses: Nine West My favorite travelling outfit - a jersey tank dress, scarf and sandals. So easy, but still chic.

My hubby in one of the roadside pullouts on our way to Abbotsford, where we visited my husband's cousin and her partner.

Tank: Smart Set
Shorts: Suzy Shier
Cardigan: Jacob
Sandals: Steve Madden

Away in the Rockies Sweater: Modcloth
Tank: Kersh
Shorts: Modcloth
Sandals: Naturalizer

It was just a wee bit windy on the ferry, lol. I actually love this photo because it's one of my least posed, and it reflects the fun we were having on our trip.

More scenery out the side of my window.

I should mention at this juncture that I am a terrible passenger on a road trip. I often fall asleep and I sometimes get motion sickness (but I use Sea Bands to combat it). As we were driving on the Island, I felt myself pulled out of sleep as the motion of the car slowed. My hubby had seen this incredibly beautiful stream and decided to pull over for a little rest stop. We climbed down the rocks and took in the fresh mountain air and the clean cool wind off the water. I felt as if the stress of our jobs melted away just then.


It turns out that this road stop attraction ended up being one of our most romantic times on our trip, too :)

Finally, we arrived in Ucluelet, and look what we found! Oh, deer :)

The long drive was worth it. This was the view behind our room at Water's Edge Resort. I won't bore you with room details, but I will say that the highlight was the outdoor, 2-man private Jacuzzi on our porch. It was exactly what was needed after my half marathon!

A close up of the view from our porch.


Blazer: Ricki's Tank: Pure by Alfred Sung Cropped pants: Ricki's Shoes: Nine West

Celebration time! My post-run outfit for dinner.

We had the BEST meal at Norwood's Restaurant in Ucluelet. Who would have thought that this tiny town would have such an amazing 5-star restaurant? The perfect way to celebrate my first half marathon.


Blazer: Ricki's White button down: Jacob Scarf: Gifted Jeans: Jessica Simpson Jeggings Sandals: Steve Madden

Then it was off to Vancouver, for a quick visit with friends and my sister and brother in law. Above is the outfit I wore to Granville Island, a tiny island that is full of artisan shops and food shops. No visit to Vancouver would be complete without it! I suggest going on an empty stomach so you can enjoy the local delicacies. Yummm.

Granville Island Public Market

After meeting up with my sister and going for much-needed pedicures (mine are the yellow!), it was time to enjoy some delicious Vancouver sushi.


Hubby, me, my sister and brother in law at Dream Sushi on Main.

I highly suggest you visit Dream Sushi if you're the kind of person who loves maki. In particular, the Valcano and the Spicy Girl rolls are delish!

So that's my vacay in a nutshell! A summary of my half-marathon still to come.

Whew! What a week!

2011-06-16T17:58:00.000-06:00

A preview of what
is to come later this week.
Food, running and fun!

Stay tuned . . . :)

The secret to success

2011-06-04T17:24:00.000-06:00


Coral tank top: Banana Republic Skirt: RW&Co Cardigan: Suzy Shier Sandals: Expressions

The extra mile is
often the one that moves you
beyond your borders.

I never thought I would run a half marathon.

In fact, when I first started running, I could only run for a few blocks before my lungs cried, "Uncle!" Every bone in my body felt sore and uncomfortable. I was 21 years old and in great shape, regularly working out 3 to 4 times a week at the gym. Yet there I was, humbled by a simple jog only blocks from my apartment. My pride prevented me from doing it again for a long while.

Fast forward 4 years. I was in a new job and met four awesome girls, all around my age. Coincidentally, all of us were interested in fitness and healthy eating, and most of the group (with the glaring exception of moi) were runners. We decided to go for a run at lunch - my first since that disastrous first run.

So I went. And it hurt. And I was terrible at it.

But for some reason, I kept doing it. Over and over again. Not just at lunch, but also on my own, in my neighbourhood.

We continued to run that same time route off and on through the summer, and gradually, it got easier and easier. Each week I was able to run a little more and walk a little less. Eventually I was able to run the route in 27 minutes - a vast improvement from my first time of 45 minutes!

Encouraged by my success, I decided to sign up for a 5K run that fall. Then a year and a half after that, I signed up for a 10K run. And next weekend, two years after my 10K, I'll be running my first 21.1K half marathon.

Friends and family of mine are amazed that I, a formerly staunch anti-runner, am now accomplishing a goal that most people will never even attempt. I can't believe it either, to tell you the truth!

So how did I get here? I've been giving this some though as of late.

I think the secret to any successful person is that they are willing to put in the work that other people aren't. Successful athletes are the ones who will literally run the extra mile, and push themselves beyond their own limits. They are the ones who will do the hard work where other athletes won't.

Think about it. It's easy to stick to what you know, and what you are good at. As humans, we're naturally inclined to want to play to our strengths, and stay away from the stuff that makes us uncomfortable. Running for me, was a major ass kicker. It was a workout like no other, and it pushed me mentally and tested my endurance and cardio performance.

But I loved it.

Crazy as it seems, I loved being challenged beyond my physical limits. I loved the solitary nature of running, and the feel of the hard asphalt moving under my feet. I loved the feel of my heart pounding in my chest, making me feel so vitally alive! And most of all, I loved how running transformed me mentally into a strong, confident and balanced woman.

So if there's one thing you can take from this post, please know that whatever your secret fitness dream is, you CAN do it. If you are willing to put in some hard work, time, and allow yourself to be humbled once in awhile, you CAN and WILL do it.

How do I know? Because I'm living proof that an ordinary person can achieve extraordinary things with some determination and hard work.

What is your secret fitness goal? I'd love to hear about it!

A throwback to the Draper eras

2011-05-30T22:04:00.000-06:00


Shirt: Jacob Skirt: Banana Republic Heels: Liz Claiborne

This would have worked in
the 50s or today's life
Polka dots and sass.

One of the Everybody Everywear challenges was to wear polka dots. Much to my surprise, I couldn't find a single spotty thing to wear! I'd be remiss to let another day go by without a single piece of dotted clothing. And so I kept my eyes open for exactly the right item of clothing to add to my wardrobe.

Last week, Jacob had a great summer sale and this little ditty just happened to be on sale for $29.99. I tried it on and loved it so much I seriously considered buying it in black, too. But then I stopped myself from overspending, flexing my under-used self control muscle. So proud was I of this achievement, that I celebrated by buying the yellow cardigan seen here instead. You see how I saved money? I'm so disciplined :P

A week in numbers

2011-05-29T19:56:00.000-06:00


Dress: Simons Cardigan: Jacob Purse: Old Sandals: Steve Madden

I feel like I can
finally breathe again now
that the week is done.

I've just come out of a very busy week, so my brain is basically the consistency of mashed banana. They say that numbers never lie, so rather than giving you a sketchy narration based on my not-so-good memory, I'll give you a synopsis, via numbers. Let's begin.

21 - kilometers I ran yesterday morning in preparation of the half-marathon.
147 - minutes it took to run it.
3 - birthdays celebrated in the past week (my Dad, my husband and my brother-in-law).
4 - the number of years I've now been married to my husband! :)
15 - minutes it took to buy my new camera! (bought a Canon PowerShot SX30IS)
30 - value, in dollars of the Lowepro camera bag that I talked the salesperson into giving me for free (I'm shameless).
735 - pages in The Other Boleyn Girl, which I will have finished by the end of today.
1 - lesson learned this week. (Number 1: Handwashing a dry-clean only dress is a terrible idea. I washed this grey dress I am wearing and the grey rayon shrunk while the polyester lining stays the same length.

How was your weekend?? I feel like I've been out of the loop for so long!

Casual Friday

2011-05-20T15:18:00.000-06:00

Tank: Kersh
Cargo pants: Jacob
Sandals: Steve Madden
Necklace: Stella and Dot

Casual Friday-
how I long for you each week!
Long weekend awaits!

Happy Long weekend to my fellow Canadians! Enjoy the Victoria Day holiday and please drink responsibly. And if you live in the western provinces, please be careful with your BBQs, fire pits and cigarette butts. We don't need another repeat of this.

1950's meets military

2011-05-19T15:53:00.000-06:00

Necklace: Stella and Dot Vintage Link necklace
Shirt: Twik from Simons
Skirt: Joe Fresh
Belt: Old
Sandals: Naturalizer

Brown and khaki green;
Exhaustion and caffiene; that
sums up today's post.*

I'm having a lot of trouble waking up lately. I'm constantly tired and feel as if I haven't slept enough. Perhaps it's due to the massive addiction to caffiene I've mentioned before. It's a terrible cycle of being tired, drinking caffiene, then being too caffienated to sleep early, which leads to being tired, drinking caffiene, etc., etc. It really is a problem. Let me ponder some solutions as I sip my iced coffee from Tim Hortons.

Back to my story. This morning I had difficulty waking up, and had about 3 minutes to decide what to wear. After unsuccessfully trying on two dresses (one that needed to be laundered; one that's now too big), I was in a panic. I took two of my precious minutes to shave my legs this morning, and I will not let them go to waste! I thought to myself. I've gotta wear *something* that show off these bare beauties!

Enter stage right this skirt. I got this skirt at the beginning of the spring season, but somehow, it's never made its way to the blog till now. It definitely plays into the military trend going on right now, but it also flares out, giving it a slightly A line. Paired with this form-fitting brown button down, and it somehow looks like a cross between the 1950s and the military. Like maybe this is what I would have worn if I worked for the military back in the day. Or not.

* Did you notice that my haiku rhymes today?? I should write more haikus while sleep deprived. Or I could get some more sleep and be more coherent. That works, too.

Like a real blogger

2011-05-18T15:34:00.000-06:00

Tank top: Joe Fresh
Skirt: Joe Fresh:
Blazer: Modcloth
Sandals: Geoz

I write witty posts
and post outfits but didn't
feel legit till now.

Yesterday, I went out on a limb and took photos in public. Like, an actual place where people could see me, on a busy street, during the lunch hour. This is a big departure for me, considering most of my photos are taken in my backyard, or in my coworker's office.

Anyway, just as we were done snapping photos, we heard the door behind me open and a woman came out, asking, "Can I help you?" Obviously she (and likely her coworkers) saw me working it outside their workplace door.

"Uh, er, no, I was . . . uh . . . just taking photos," I stammered, as we started to walk quickly away.

Embarassing as that was, I was excited to have this encounter. It makes it legit! I'm officailly an Outfit Blogger. Being caught by a stranger taking photos is totally one of those milestone moments, no?

What have you done that make you feel like an "official" blogger?

A room to call my own!

2011-05-15T22:06:00.000-06:00

Under construction:
a wardrobe room that will hold
all my clothes at once.

** If you don't like braggy posts where the blogger goes on and on about how great her husband is, feel free to skip this post :)

I have the best husband in the world. He really is the best. While he has many admirable qualities, let me focus on just one of them today.

My hubby is, quite possibly, the most talented man working in construction today. Not only is he a journeyman Red Seal plumber, he's also an incredibly gifted contractor. A year ago, he and I began our own general contracting company, doing complete kitchen and kitchen renovations. And when I say we have a business, I mean that he does 95% of the work while I do the remaining 5%. But I do make sure we have a hot nutritious meal on the table every night . . . that's got to count for something, right? Anyhoo.

We were recently discussing what to do with one of the spare bedrooms in our bungalow. Originally, we had planned it to be a nursery, but since it looks like having children is not in God's plan for us, we decided it's not healthy to keep wishing our lives away, and wasting this room in the process. We decided that this room should put it to good use. It's time to fill this sad, empty room full of life and inspiration.

After some thought, we both came to the conclusion that what's needed in our house is a place for all my clothes. Currently, my clothes are spread out over four closets all over the house. This makes it difficult for me to find items and also to know what's currently in my wardrobe. And so, my husband is now building me a wardrobe room!

What's a wardrobe room? Well, imagine a large walk-in closet that just happens to be a stand-alone room. That, friends, is what I will have.

In the coming weeks, I'll keep you updated on the progress. For now, the room looks like this:

Not much to look at yet.

In the mean time, I'd love to hear about how you organize your closets! There's so many possibilities that I'd love some advice.

You never know till you try

2011-05-13T16:07:00.000-06:00

Tank dress: Forever 21
Scarf: Land's End
Bracelet: Tiffany & Co
Sandals: Naturalizer
Cardigan: Ricki's

I used to say that
I didn't like beets. That is,
Until I tried them.

There are many things in life that must be experienced before one can definitively say whether you like them or not. Beets and tank dresses are two of those things.

Let's talk beets first. One of the first times we grocery shopped together, my hubby grabbed a jar of pickled beets. Hubby loooooooooves all things sour or tart. Raspberries, sour candies, pickled anything - you name it, he loves it. I made a face when he was grabbing the jar, which prompted him to ask, "What? You don't like beets?"

"Nope," I said.

He paused.

"Have you ever tried beets?"

I paused.

". . . also nope."

Needless to say, as soon as we got home, he cracked open the jar for me to sample and lo and behold - I actually liked the little suckers.Who'd have thunk it?

The same goes for this tank dress. It looked so blah hanging up at Forever 21. But I picked it up to try on anyway because I loved the navy color and because I know maxi dresses are so "in" this summer.

I put it on and it was like the clouds parted and angels sang. Where has this dress been all my life? It's so comfortable and super easy to style. I love it so much that I'm tempted to go back and scope it out in all different colors.

What about you? What things have you tried that you ended up loving?

A happy coincidence

2011-05-11T11:06:00.002-06:00

Cardigan: Old Navy
Tank: Old Navy
Skirt: Winners
Belt: Came with shorts from Modcloth
Sandals: Chinese Laundry

Blogs are abloom and

I'm wearing double floral

without knowing it.

As a blogger, I'm not much of a joiner. Sure, I've done the occasional challenge here and there, but generally, I like to stick to my own little corner of cyberspace and post when I feel like it.

So imagine my surprise when I realized that I accidentally participated in a challenge yesterday without even knowing it! Yesterday was the Floral challenge of Everybody, Everywhere. I only realized this once I started reading some of your blogs and seeing your awesomely styled florals. And lo and behold, I'm wearing not only ONE floral piece, but TWO. For double your enjoyment (and double my surprise).

The moral of this story: if you're going to accidentally participate in a challenge, try to go all out, will ya?

About shoes and hair

2011-05-08T09:14:00.000-06:00

Shirt: Joe Fresh
Jeans: Rock and Republic
Belt: came with a pair of shorts from Modcloth
Sandals: Geox

Some have cigarettes,
others indulge in drinking.
I'm about shoes and hair.

I don't drink. I don't do drugs. I certainly don't smoke (it would be terrible for the half marathon I have coming up!). But that doesn't make me a puritan by any means!

My indulgences just happen to be things that have to do with my appearance. I take my image and my appearance seriously (. . . which is probably another reason why I don't drink, do drugs or smoke!) so I invest in the things that make me happy. Like good hair and fabulous shoes.

I don't know what it is, but when I have a good hair day, I feel unstoppable. Like I can take over the world. Like I could lead a small army. Like I'm WINNING! As a result, I am a regular at my salon. Every six weeks or so, I go in for a cut and usually a color, too. I've had a few persistent greys in my hair since I underwent a stressful breakup at 23, and since then I've spent loads of cash trying to cover them up. While it's easy enough to do it myself at home, I prefer leaving it to the professionals at the salon to do it for me. It keeps my hair looking shiny, healthy and polished - all of which plays into this well-played farce that I put on everyday ;)

This week I made a trip to the salon and went an extra step further - I got extensions! Well, I should qualify that. I got extensions on the left side of my hair to even out my previously asymetrical haircut. Finally, it looks like my haircut is an actual style, vs. I'm-growing-out-my-hair. And that makes me feel like a million bucks!

Shoes are another of my vices. As you've heard me say before, I will spend good money on well-made shoes. $225 is not ridiculous to me for a pair of well-made, quality shoes that will last for years to come. Before you get all judgy on me, (LOL) I can justify my need for quality shoes.

1) I'm an overpronator, so my arches collapse when I walk. This causes pain in my knees, and most recently, my IT bands. I need quality shoes that have arch support in order to feel comfortable.

2) I'm a size 8 or 8.5 - the most popular shoe size for women. Most stores carry two pairs of each sized shoe. If I see a pair of shoes I love in my size, I have to snap it up, because if I don't, they'll be gone tomorrow!

So now you know my vices. What are yours?

P.S. - HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all you yummy mummies out there!! Enjoy your day and be spoiled ;)

Election day!

2011-05-02T19:36:00.000-06:00

Chambray shirt: Old Navy
Black cardigan: Joe Fresh
Ankle pants: Ricki's
Handbag: Frankie and Johnnie
Flats: Geox

I checked my box and
supported my party. Now
awaiting results.

Tonight is a super exciting night in Canadian politics. For the first time ever, the New Democratic Party (the party on the far left of the political spectrum) may become our government, or possibly our Official Opposition! As a political junkie, following politics is like crack to me, so I will keep this short tonight.

I feel bad for not posting all week and writing such a short post tonight. To make it up to you, I give you this:

I saw this guy when I was training for my half-marathon last weekend. Awesomeness!

Fit for a Queen

2011-04-24T16:17:00.000-06:00

White trench: Smart Set
Purple dress: Modcloth
Wedge sandals: Chinese Laundry
Necklace and bracelet: Tiffany & Co.

Purple is the hue
of Royal men and women\
and also the King.

Maybe it's all the coverage of the upcoming Royal wedding or the millions of photos of the gorgeous Kate Middleton on the internet, but something about this outfit today felt very royal to me. Perhaps it's the rich purple of the dress, or the clean crispness of the white trench, but I was feeling decidely princess-like today.

Or perhaps it's because I wore this to Easter Sunday service today. See, to Christians around the world, Easter Sunday signifies Jesus Christ's resurrection, elevating him from an ordinary man into a King. Only makes sense that I would wear a royal outfit, then, no? ;)

How was your Easter?

Only one did that for me

2011-04-22T14:50:00.001-06:00

Gingham shirt - Joe Fresh
Jeggings: Jessica Simpson Kiss Me Jeggings
Shoes: Expressions
Necklace and bracelet: Stella and Dot

A Father allowed

His only son to die so that

you and I could live.

What does Good Friday mean to me? These lyrics from the song "How Many Kings" by Downhere say it better than I ever could.

Cause how many kings, stepped down from their thrones?
How many lords have abandoned their homes?
How many greats have become the least for me?
How many Gods have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that has torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their sons for me?

Only one did that for me.

Happy Good Friday :)

Shirtdress at work

2011-04-20T09:56:00.000-06:00

Shirtdress: H&M
Vest: Jacob
Belt: Levi Strauss
Tights: Winners
Ankle Cowboy Boots: Brown's

Another shirt dress
This time in blue and worn with boots
Fast and cute for work.

The Sprinter Season

2011-04-17T13:52:00.000-06:00

Blazer: Modcloth
Lace shirt: Suzy Shier
Tank: Unknown (old)
Jeans: Jessica Simpson Kiss Me Jeggings
Shoes: Expressions
Bag: Frankie and Johnnie

Not spring nor winter
The "Sprinter" season lingers
Layers are a must.

Mother Nature's not sure what season it should be yet - winter or spring, so she's decided to leave us with Sprinter. This weirdo hybrid season is characterized by gloomy grey skies, occasional skiffs of snow, and then sudden bursts of blue skies and sunshine that hint of the upcoming warmer weather ahead. It's also easily identified by the grouchy faces of those experiencing Sprinter, and by their incessant complaining about the weather.

The key to dressing for Sprinter is layering - in this case, a tank, a lace shirt, a light spring blazer and a heavy scarf. This is what I wore to church today, and even though I was afraid I was going to freeze, I was actually OK warmth-wise. You might recognize these shoes from earlier this week when it was 10 degrees warmer and there was 20 cm less snow on the ground. Sigh.

In other news, I ran 16K yesterday!!! It's the farthest I've ever run - ever. It relieves me to think that I only have to add 5K more before I'm ready for the Edge to Edge Half Marathon. I've had some problems with my right IT band, so hopefully the physio that I'm doing will help strengthen my right leg up for the big day.

A side benefit of all this running is that my legs have never looked more muscular and thinner. I can't wait till Sprinter is done so I can show off my hard-earned gams!

What did you do this weekend?

A Little bad@ss at work

2011-04-13T17:19:00.000-06:00

Shirtdress: Smart Set
Belt: Smart Set
Shoes: Expressions

A closet bad@ss
hides in the public service.
My shoes are a clue.

A few months ago, it occurred to me that I don't have very many casual clothes. My closet is full of work wear - shirt dresses (like the one above), blazers, button downs, slacks, pencil skirts and the like. Of course, like the outfit blogger that I am, my automatic thought was Obviously I need to buy more casual clothing. Where's my credit card?! But then the sensible Jo kicked in and deconstructed this thought before driving to the nearest Gap to do some damage.

First, let's consider my lifestyle. I wear work clothes 5 out of 7 days in a week. That means that nearly 75% of my time is spent wearnig work clothes. By extension, that should also mean that roughly three-quarters of my clothing budget should theoretically be dedicated to work-appropriate clothes. So really, it's appropriate that the majority of my closet is full of work pieces.

Secondly, many of my work clothes can pull double duty into my casual weekend clothing. In fact, my clothes are expected to be able to styled professionally and casually. And that's where these new sandals come into play.

I bought these Expressions sandals, along with these beauties (in brown) this week. Before buying either of them, I had to prove to myself that they could be worn both casually and to work.

The brown wedge sandals were easy to work into work ouffits. In fact, Hope just bought the same pair and styled them beautifully this week. But these nude Expressions sandals . . . I wasn't totally convinced. With all the lacing and the hardware on them, I wasn't sure if they'd be a little too edgy for work. My casual weekend look tends to be a bit more edgy that my buttoned-down 9 to 5 persona, so I wasn't sure if these sandals would translate so well into work life.

This morning, I was absolutely committed to wearing these sandals before more snow falls. Well, it turns out that a pair of kick@ss sandals can be work appropriate, so long as you're pairing it with something that's a bit more conservative, and not not um, this.

What are some ways you keep your bad@ss at the office?

Blank canvas

2011-04-09T18:05:00.000-06:00


White button down: Gap Jeggings: Jessica Simpson Kiss Me Jeggings Nude pumps: Aldo (old) Belt: Smart Set

A white shirt is like
a canvas waiting for an
artist's bold paint brush.

When it comes to putting together an outfit, mine are almost always planned according to 2 factors:

1) What I'll be doing that day (Function)

2) What I feel like wearing (Fashion)

Today's outfit was entirely about function. This afternoon, I hosted a Stella and Dot trunk show at my house, which meant I knew I'd be trying on a lot of jewelry. I needed an outfit that would allow me to showcase the gorgeous necklaces, rings and bracelets in the S&D line, so I decided to play it safe with a white button down and skinny jeans - a good blank canvas to start from.

So what did I buy? Well for starters, this, this and this. Don't they have awesome stuff?!? I think their designs are beautiful and it helps that they make it out of sterling silver, gold and semi precious stones.

If you're interested, please buy from my links above. I don't make any commissions off of it, but it would really help out my friend who sells it! Happy shopping :)

Value vs. worth - Skinny cargos

2011-04-06T20:49:00.001-06:00

Jean jacket: Old Navy
Button down: Jacob
Skinny cargos: Jacob
Silk scarf: Jacob
Shoes: Tsubo
Handbag: I forget the brand but I got it at Winners

Skinny cargos and

a feminine top help make

this office ready.

I used to have a terrible habit of ordering from the right side of the menu. You know, where the prices are. When I was starting out my career, and not making a lot of money, often my dining choices were made based on the prices of the entrees.

As I made more money, I became better at ordering what I wanted to eat, vs. ordering the best deal on the menu. Eventually this shift started to apply to my clothing purchases.

Nowadays, when it comes to certain items of clothing like jackets or shoes, I'm much more apt to invest in a quality piece. Quality over quantity.

The key, I've figured out, is to differentiate between value and worth. Sometimes the sticker value of an article of clothing is much more than what you were willing to pay. However, the hard part is to figure out it's value to you or your wardrobe.

These skinny cargos are a good example. It's value, according to the Jacob store I bought them from, was $49.95. But when I put them on and saw how they fit, I decided their worth was greater than the value. These pants can easily transition from spring into summer and from work to casual wear. They were just what I needed to update the clothes already in my closet.

I was totally prepared to pay the $49.95 for the pants when I walked it up to the till. So imagine my surprise when it rang up as $29.95! (The pants were marked down that day as part of a promotion).

Once I walked out of the store though, I couldn't help but think that I had totally gotten the better deal out of the sale. The value of these skinny cargos to my wardrobe is immensely higher than what I paid for them. What a score!

What have you purchased recently that had a higher worth than its value?

My first food post! - Vegetable polenta

2011-04-04T20:34:00.000-06:00

Meatless and healthy

This casserole is perfect

for the health conscious.

You already know that I love clothes and style, but what you may not know about me is that I also loooooove cooking! How did it come about, you ask? Well, it's a necessity when you love to eat. Am I right??

Last year, I spent most of the year as a vegetarian. This layered eggplant and zucchini casserole was one of the awesome recipes I discovered and relied on when I was wanting filling, hearty food, It's also perfect right now for those of you celebrating meatless Fridays for Lent. Hope you enjoy it!

Oh and for those of you on Weight Watchers - 1/6 of this casserole works out to 6 points plus :)

Layered Vegetable and Polenta Casserole
** Adapted from Cookbook Cooks

1 medium onion, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small eggplant, chopped
2 small zucchini, chopped
1 yellow pepper, chopped
28 ounce can diced tomato
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili peppers
2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
14 slices of polenta, sliced to 1/2 inch thickness
1-1/3 cups of part skim mozzerella

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and saute for 3-5 minutes.
Add garlic and continue to saute for 3 minutes, stirring often so the garlic does not stick.
Add zucchini, eggplant and pepper and continue to cook for 5 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano and chilies.

Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Preheat the oven to 350°C
Slice the polenta into 1/2 inch rounds
Cover the bottom of a 2 quart casserole dish with a thin layer of sauce (be careful not to use more than 1/3). Top with a layer of polenta.

Top with half the remaining sauce and half the cheese. Top with another layer of polenta, sauce and cheese.
Bake at 350°C for 20-25 minutes, until sauce is bubbling and cheese is melted.

Enjoy!

Back in Blog Town

2011-04-02T15:09:00.000-06:00

Green ruffle shirt: Modcloth
Skirt: Modcloth
Belt: Levi's
Navy cardigan: Ricki's
Boots: Same old Hushpuppies
Crappy quality photo: Blackberry. I apologize.

Jo’s back in Blog Town.
Apres my hiatus
I’m feeling more sane.

So I’m back. And this is what I wore upon the Great Return. Of spring, that is. Oh, you thought I meant the return of me? You are too sweet :)

So friends . . . what's new?? I've been secretly creeping your blogs, so I'm really just asking to be polite. BTW, you ladies are doing an awesome job of transitioning your winter wear to spring. I hope to be doing the same in the next little while as we (finally) melt away winter's snow.

Now that I’m back in Blog Town, I’ve decided to scale back my blog posts to 2 or 3 times a week. That’s all that my busy life will accommodate at the moment. Between my half marathon training, running a household, helping with my husband’s business and trying to be a good friend/sister/daughter/mentor, I am tapped out to the max.

But I want to keep blogging, since this is my creative outlet. It’s the community where I can share my outfit with my virtual pals, and also peek inside your lives, too. So I’m going to take the time to focus on quality content, rather than quantity, and hope that my faithful blog friends are OK with it.

Now I have a question for you, my friends. Are you interested in hearing about my other passions, namely, cooking and fitness? Would you be interested in reading recipes or hearing about my training? Or are you mainly interested in outfit posts? Please be honest and let me know your thoughts. I am interested in seeing what you have to say!

I Quit

2011-02-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

The Fonz says thumbs down.
Via

I quit. Sorry, folks.

Life has gotten in the way

of the challenge.

Those who know me in real life know that I'm not a quitter. Normally I'm a grin and bear it kind of girl. A grit your teeth and get through it type. A go getter who gets what she was out to get. You get the point.

Well, today, I'm a quitter. Yup, I officially quit the 30 for 30.

I won't give you a bunch of tired excuses. Life has simply gotten in the way and I can't keep up with daily photos, nor daily posts.

And because life is busy, I can only blog sporadically. I love this blog and all the friends I met, and I hope I'm not disappointing anyone with this decision. I feel like I'm spread thin these past few weeks, and I'd rather do a few things well than do many things with mediocrity.

So please bear with me for the next little while :)

Fab in Feb - Outfit 17

2011-02-21T20:21:00.000-07:00

White tank: Walmart
Striped sweater: Twik
Skirt: Smart Set
Boots: Hunter
Jacket: Old Navy

Spring! You temptress you.
You visit for moments then
leave us cold again.

So for about 6 minutes today, it felt like spring. The sun was shining brightly (as evidenced by the crap photos above) and it was a balmy 1C, allowing me to break out my old khaki jacket. Then you changed your fickle mind and became so cold again.

Spring is one fickle bitch.

It's Monday (Family Day in my province!) so I had the day off. This day is made better by the fact that it's Fabulous in February day! I was sick last Monday and wasn't able to participate, so I'm glad to be back with my three positive statements about myself.

1) I have great nails. I have pretty pink nail beds and strong, healthy nails that grow perfectly rounded with almost no care. Manicurists always compliment me on them, and I've even been asked many times if my nails are fake!

2) I am very self-motivated. Even as a child, I had a strong self-motivation that has helped me through many occasions in life, such as breaking off an engagement with a very bad boyfriend; change careers early on in life (from my career as a print journalist to a public affairs officer) and do things in personal life like train for a half marathon. I learned this from my parents, who arrived in Canada as immigrants and worked two jobs each to give me and my siblings the life they always wanted for us. I owe it all to them.

3) I am independent. I've always made my own money, driven my own car and lived on my own. My parents raised me to be self-sufficient and I pride myself on this.

Curious to see what everyone else has to say? Check out the other Fabulous in February participants!

The Art of Roll and Tuck - Outfit 16

2011-02-21T19:28:00.001-07:00

Plum tunic: ModCloth
Black tunic (worn as a vest): Twik
Jeggings: HBC
Shoes: Brown's

You know Stop, Drop, Roll,
But do you know Roll and Tuck?
It's a remix must!

Remember Stop, Drop and Roll? It's probably the only thing I still remember from my Grade 2 Health class. For the memory-challenged, it's what you're supposed to do if you accidentally catch on fire. You stop in place; drop to the ground; and roll until the fire's out. What a clever little slogan, right?

Well remixers, I want to offer you another smart little slogan: Roll and Tuck. It's not nearly as catchy, but if you're mid-remix and lacking ideas, you may want to give it a try.

Roll and Tuck is essentially the art of rolling up hems, sleeves or other parts of your clothing and then tucking them strategically to create a "new" item of clothing. Take the black tunic I'm wearing in the photos above, for example.

Normally my tunic looks like this. But with a simple rolling in of the short sleeves and a tuck of the hem and I have a cutesy black vest as part of my 30 for 30! Simple, right?

Click here for another example of how I've Tucked and Rolled.

A Popped Collar - Outfit 15

2011-02-20T13:47:00.000-07:00

Chambray shirt: Old Navy
Belt: Came with a pair of shorts from Modcloth
Pants: RW&Co
Shoes: Brown's
Earrings: Claire's

Ordinary turns
extraordinary when you
show some attitude.

Sometimes a simple outfit can be transformed with the slightest detail to make an ordinary outfit extraordinary. One of my favorite tricks is to pop the collar. I do it all the time to zush up a plain outfit (zush is a word, right??). If you've never done it, I encourage you to try it this week. A popped collar = instant attitude. Which we could all use more of, right? (Note: husband disagrees!).

So thank you everyone for your concern RE: my headache. FYI, the doctor said it's a tension headache, likely caused by grinding my teeth or clenching my jaw. It's amazing how much tension we carry in our jaws! I notice that I clench my teeth in traffic and even when I run sometimes. I better figure out the source of all this tension before I grind my poor teeth to dust!

Purple Party - Outfit 14

2011-02-17T17:26:00.000-07:00


White button down: Gap Skirt: Modcloth Cardigan: Suzy Shier Booties: Madden Girl Necklace: Gift from my neice

Bridal shower for
a coworker obsessed with
purple everything.

We had a purple-themed bridal shower for my coworker today. J is obsessed with all things purple. Even her stapler is purple! In honour of the bride, we decided to all wear the color today. Thankfully I had this amethyst skirt in my 30. Whew!

Atmospheric changes - Outfits 11, 12 and 13

2011-02-15T21:45:00.000-07:00

Chambray shirt: Old Navy
Poppy red sweater: Gap
Skinny pants: RW&Co
Belt: Smart Set
Necklace: Suzy Shier
Boots: Hushpuppies

Sorry I was away.
My head is splitting with a
massive headache. Ouch.

This will have to be a short one, kids. My head is K-I-L-L-I-N-G me!! It feels like it's in a vice. And my brains are being pushed out my temples. Or something like that.

I stayed home from work yesterday due to this massive headache. I did go to work today, but my head hasn't improved. In feeling nor in beauty! (Ha!).

I've never had a headache that's lasted this long. I'm going to see the doctor tomorrow (at my friends and coworkers' insistence!). He'll have a proper diagnosis but in my non-medical opinion is that it's being caused by these massive atmospheric changes we're having.

Literally, for the past 3 weeks or so, we've been going from -25C back up to 5C in the span of a few days. It's happened about three times in three weeks. It's doing crazy stuff to our barometric pressure (so says The Weather Network, anyway) and to the device that holds my brain inside my body also known as my noggin. Ugh.

And now I'm behind in my outfit posts. Sigh.

The red sweater outfit at the beggining of this post is what I call the What I Would Have Worn Valentine's Day, Had My Cerebrum Decided Not To War With Its Shell. Also known as today's work outfit.

Below is the What I Wore to Our Make-Up Valentine's Dinner outfit. Worn this evening for our sushi date.

Black T: Smart Set
Striped T: Smart Set
Knit vest: Suzy Shier
Jeans: DKNY
Shoes: Brown's

And finally, the shiny outfit below is what I wore Friday. I don't like how this outfit turned out, nor how I looked in these photos. Hence why it's on the bottom of this post. My blog = my rules, right?

Sequins snakeskin tunic: Request
Black tank (under): Old Navy
Cardigan: Suzy Shier
Belt: Levi's
Necklace: Claire's
Jeggings: HBC

Awkward and Awesome - Oufit 10

2011-02-10T18:36:00.000-07:00


Green shirt: Modcloth Sweater: Suzy Shier Pants: RW&Co Shoes: Brown's

I may never write

another Awkward/Awesome
cause today's wins all.

AWKWARD

- Telling the optician my prescription, and having her exclaim, "Holy moly! Anything less than high index lenses and you're in Coke bottle territory." Geez, thanks, as if I wasn't sensitive enough about this already . . .

- When the dentist or hygienist asks you a question . . . while examining you . . . and your mouth is gaping open.

Finally, the awkward to end all awkwards:

- Having an employee who is so quiet that she walks into your house undetected in the morning. Then walking from your bedroom into your bathroom in just your underwear - in front of your employee. Then never speaking about the incident. Ever. Again.

AWESOME

- My coworker who brings in handsoap from Bath and Body Works. This week's scent is Winter Candy Apple!

- Being able to reciprocate my husband's support by comforting him after a particularly nasty run-in with a customer. Big hugs, a few glasses of wine and a hot bath later, Hubby was feeling much better!

- That there's only one more work day in this week.

Fake it Till You Make It - Outfit 9

2011-02-09T18:10:00.001-07:00

T-shirt: Gap
Dress: RW&Co
Tights: Smart Set
Booties: Madden Girl
Necklace: Claires

Who needs a high-waist
skirt when you have a tweed dress,
a belt and a T?

Maybe the title of my post is misleading. When it comes to clothes, I can't actually "make" anything. In fact, I distinctly remember getting a 70% score on the crappy pencil case I was forced to sew in Grade 7 Home Economics. Even then I had problems with sewing straight lines. And that was before I discovered the wonderful effect of too much caffeine on my system. Imagine.

Anyhoo, today is all about faking it. Whooooa - wait, not faking it, because, really, this is not that kind of blog. This is about faking a high-waisted secretary skirt, when all you have at your disposal are 30 items for 30 days. All you need is a T-shirt, a belt and a tweed dress. The rest, they say is history. (And not home ec. Thank God.).

Multi-Tasking Outfit - Outfits 7 and 8

2011-02-08T19:19:00.002-07:00

Today's title should be

Two-for-One. Two outfits and

Two challenges, too!

Multi-tasking is the busy girl's best friend. Which is why I love that today's post has two outfits, and one of them fulfills 2 challenges!


Skirt: Modcloth White button down: Gap Grey sweater: Ricki's Booties: Madden Girl

Let's start with Outfit 7. This is the first time I've busted out my Modcloth purple skirt since I bought it a month ago and I love it! I look forward to remixing it in the next 3 weeks.

Blazer: Gap
White cardigan: Ricki's
Tank: Forever 21
Pants: RW&Co
Wedge Mary-Janes: Brown's

Outfit 8 is my multitasking outfit. It fulfills the 30 for 30 Challenge and the Everybody, Every Wear challenge - to style a classic blazer. Gotta love days like this :)

Fab in Feb - Volume 1

2011-02-07T19:40:00.000-07:00

Source - Fada Moranga photo

When was the last time

you stopped to appreciate

your beauty and grace?

So my awesome buddy Hope and the super supportive Melissa have come up with this AWESOME idea to post three positive things about ourselves every Monday in February. After all, it's all about the love this month - so why not give yourself some self-love? God knows we are so good at beating ourselves up. But Fabulous in February is all about celebrating our inner and outer beauty.

Here are three things I love about myself:

1) I have great hair! It's pretty healthy in spite of me constantly changing its color, cut, etc. I also love that my hair grows really fast, so I'm never stuck with a cut I hate for long.

2) I am witty. I always have a come-back ready - sometimes appropriate, sometimes not :)

3) I am a people-person. If you put me in a room with 100 different people from all walks of life, I have the unique ability to find something to talk to every single person about! I love people, and a lot of people seem attracted to me (or is it my energy?).

What are YOU proud of? I'd love to hear it! And if you'd like to read more, check out here and here for links!

7 Things Post - Outfits 5 and 6

2011-02-06T16:07:00.001-07:00

Doing my best Ramsey-esque pose :)

White tank: Kersh
Black cardigan: Suzy Shier
Jeans: DKNY
Shoes: Brown's

It's Sunday; I'm tired.
Thankfully I was tagged in
a 7 Things post!

A little while back, the oh-so-cute From Suns to Moons tagged me in a 7 Things post. What impeccable timing, considering I have zero energy and creativity this weekend! So here are seven very random things about me!

1) I love gardening! Every year my husband and I plant veggies like lettuce, bok choy, zucchini, beets, green beans, etc; herbs and lots and lots of tomato plants in our garden. We also plant flowers in our flower beds. As a child, I never did learn to garden. It was actually my husband who taught me everything I know :) In the summer, we even compost our food scraps to make nice compost for our dirt.

2) I was a vegetarian for the better part of a year. It started with Lent last year. I gave up meat for 40 days, and felt so great! No bloating and I had so much more energy. Eventually I just kept on the diet, since it was so easy and I felt so good. I've recently started to incorporate it back into my diet (mainly because it's easier when I'm on Weight Watchers). But eventually I plan on going back to vegetarian.

3) I love being active! Currently I'm training for a half-marathon, but other things I've tried and enjoyed include hip hop dance classes, step aerobics, volleyball, wall climbing, ice climbing, mountain biking, hiking, water aerobics, Pilates, yoga . . . and much, much more!

4) My husband and I own our own business. Hubby is a journeyman plumber by trade and a licenced general contractor. We have one full-time employee and run our business out of our home. I still work full-time at my government job, but I would love to one day work full-time for the company!

5) The only pets I've ever had are fish.

6) I usually shop everything on sale, with the notable exception of shoes. I wear an 8 or 8.5, which I think is the most common shoe size in women. If I waited for my size to go on sale, I wouldn't have any shoes!! :)

7) I speak three languages - Cantonese, English and French.


T shirt: Gap Jeggings: HBC Boots: Hushpuppies Vest: Ricki's (not part of my 30, since it's outerwear)

TGIF - Outfit #4

2011-02-04T18:01:00.001-07:00

T-shirt: Smart Set
Blazer: Tommy Hilfiger
Jeggings: HBC
Boots: Nine West
Scarf: Twik

Sun's shining; and I
can close my blazer again.
I love this Friday :)

I'm in a hurry this evening, so just a few short words today. Last week, I lost 1.2 lbs, which means I'm down 8.0 lbs in 4 weeks!! More importantly, I fit into this Tommy Hilfiger blazer again. Yipee!

Don't you love rediscovering your own closet, either through weight loss or through remixing? What's something you've recently rediscovered?

Matching Socks and Awkward and Awesome Thursday! – Outfit #3

2011-02-03T18:27:00.000-07:00


Poppy red sweater: Gap Cord skirt: Smart Set White tank: Only Boots: Hushpuppies Socks: Gap

Need inspiration?
Look down – waaaaay down to your toes.
Cool colors, toejam.

Today’s outfit was inspired by two things: Chinese New Year (Happy Year of the Rabbit!) which means I have to wear red; and my socks. Yes, that’s right – my socks helped me match colors today. That’s why the title of this post is Matching Socks (not to be confused with socks that match.) You follow?

Anyhoo, my socks gave me the inspiration to pair this poppy red sweater with my cranberry-colored scarf today. I would have never guessed the two colors would go together so well, but all I had to do was take a trusty look at my over-the-boots socks to see that they indeed complement one another.

Recently, I feel like I’m taking more risks with color and I love the result! I’m also pretty happy that all three of my outfits in the Challenge so far feel very me.

Now onto my Awkward and Awesome Thursday thoughts.

AWKWARD

- The vertical lines left on my legs and behind after sitting in my cord skirt.

- Hastily minimizing my browser when coworkers walk into my office during the lunch hour and start talking about work. Hello, can’t you see I’m reading my favorite blogs?!?!?

- Since we’re on the topic of toejam (see today’s haiku), the little black toejams my hubby leaves all over the house. I love you honey, but gag.

- Mistyping “Blogger” as “Booger”.

AWESOME

- Fitting into my cord skirt again. I've saved it from the 'Donate' pile :)

- Tassimo's Chai Lattes (the Twinnings brand)

- Every day is getting longer! Spring - we're onto you . . .

- Finding a super cute button down shirt for $8!*

* One of the rules for the 30 for 30 is no shopping for clothes. But yesterday my husband sold our old tires and rims from our minivan and gave me $100 to blow on clothes. Since this is found money, and not money that comes out of my normal household budget, I felt OK buying it. (Yes, I realize this is a cop out. And that I'm rationalizing. And that I'm rambling now.)

** I don't know why my formatting is screwy today. I guess we're centering things today!!

Fingertip Rule - Outfit #2

2011-02-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

How short is too short?
Potential for undie peeks
is not OK, friends.

I have fashion rules for myself. I know, I know, 2011 is supposed to be the year of breaking rules, but I there are certain rules that have been helpful to me as I try to figure out my own style. These are especially helpful when it comes to dressing for the office.

Some of my office rules include:

All button down shirts must lie flat against the panel. No gaping. In case of gaping, use double-sided sticky tape to get that sucker lying flat.
No cleavage. It's never appropriate for the office, people.
Wear only one bold statement a day. So no leopard dress with colored tights and fedora and fur jacket. Yes to a leopard dress with a white button down, opaque black tights and a blazer.
And of course, the fingertip rule.

Whaaaaaaaa, you don't know about the fingertip rule?? Allow Auntie Jo to explain.

Here's how it works. If you are standing straight and the bottom hem of your tunic/dress does not pass your longest finger, then it is not suitable for work. The black tunic I'm wearing today, for example, is too short to pass the fingertip rule on its own. Therefore, I had to add this (very loose!) black skirt over top to make it appropriate for work. I would have no qualms about wearing this tunic with some leggings on the weekend, but I try to keep it on the up and up for work.

Proving I pass the fingertip rule with the skirt underneath ;)

Back to this skirt for a second. This is a jersey-knit skirt and even at my highest weight, it was still a bit loose. Now that I've lost a bit of pudge, the skirt is literally falling off of me! In fact, I had to wear it over my tunic today to keep it from falling down!

All this to say that I may have to swap out this skirt for another one in my closet for the 30 for 30. I assume it's not cheating since it's a size issue . . . right?

Morning Rush - Outfit 1

2011-02-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Chambray top: Old Navy
Necklace: Claire's
Cardigan: Ricki's
Pants: RW&Co
Shoes: Brown's
Belt: Came with shorts from Modcloth

Hit the snooze four times
and end up late this morning.
Save time with less choice.

One great thing about the challenge is that I have fewer clothing choices, and by extension, fewer options to consider every morning. This came in very, very handy this morning when I hit the snooze button not once, but FOUR times in a row.

A 6:30 a.m. start time became a 6:50 a.m. wake time. Which meant that I had 20 fewer minutes to get showered, dressed and blow dry my hair.

Imagine, to my chagrin, realizing half-way through my commute that I forgot to brush my teeth this morning. Oops. As a result, a lot of gum was chewed today!

What - TMI??

30 for 30 Extra Credit Assignment

2011-01-30T14:55:00.001-07:00

Why procrastinate?

The time is now, friends, to be

ready for this thing!

You know how in school, there was always that one kid who would hand their assignment in two days early; do extra credit homework, and was always prepared for class? Well that used to be me. I don't claim any credit, though - I blame it all on my Tiger Mom.

Well since I've become an adult, times they have a-changed! The first time that I participated in Kendi's 30 for 30, I was totally unorganized and ended up starting the challenge a day late - which is totally unlike me! I decided that if I was going to do it this time, I was going to be better organized and thus, better prepared for the challenge. Which meant that this weekend, I ended up doing a lot of laundry and photographing, when I really should have been writing an essay about Confucius' teachings about the good man. I can see the look of disapproval on Tiger Mom's face now! LOL.

So without further ado, I present to you Jo's 30 for 30 picks!

Orange sweater: Gap
Grey sweater: Rickis
White cardigan: Rickis
Black cardigan: Suzy Shier

Jeggings: HBC
Jeans: DKNY
Skinny pants: RW&Co


Black T-shirt: Smart Set Black and white striped T: Smart Set Green ruffled T: Modcloth Red and blue striped T: Gap Blue and white striped sweater: Twik

Plaid shirt: Smart Set
Chambray shirt: Old Navy
White button down: Gap


Black cord blazer: Tommy Hilfiger Grey blazer: Gap

Black tunic: Twik
Mauve tunic: Modcloth
Black knit vest: Suzy Shier
Grey wool dress: RW&Co

Microsuede booties: Madden Girl
Black leather boots: Nine West
Brown leather boots:
Grey rubber boots: Hunter
Black leather wedges: Brown's shoes


Sequins tunic: Request

This time around, I've thrown in one wildcard item - an item that often sits dormant in my closet, begging to be remixed. I love me a good challenge, and if styling a sleeveless, racer-back oversized sequins tunic isn't a challenge, I'd like to see your closet! LOL.

Here's what I wore to my friend's bowling birthday celebration Saturday night. It just so happens the tunic is one of my 30 for 30 items, so by posting it, I kind of feel like I'm turning in an extra credit assignment on my 30 for 30 . .

Once a teacher's pet, always a teacher's pet, right? ;)


Tunic: Modcloth Tank top: Can't remember but it's from the Bay Leggings: Only Boots: Feet First

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2011-01-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

August 2009 - Juneau, Alaska. On a Bike and Brew tour during a stop on our cruise.
This is an AWESOME photo because my husband took this picture while riding his bike
in front of me. That grey thing in the photo is the camera strap that fell across the camera
when he snapped the photo. It just so happened that the camera strap happened to
be open exactly where I was in the frame! Crazy, eh?

I await the spring

like deserts the rain or wives
their soldier husbands.

AWKWARD

- My 8 year-old niece asking my hubby, "Why is your hair grey at the top?" over breakfast.

- Seeing a water spot on my sweater in the morning, and thinking, No biggie, it's just water. Except that it's actually a greasy stain. And it won't come off no matter how much I scrub. And I have no idea how it got on there, nor how long it's been there. Sigh.

- The words 'vulva' and 'panties'. They're just so . . . icky and vulgar-sounding. You know?

- Coming home from a fun night out with friends and realizing my eyeliner is smeared in a half-moon under both my eyes. Thanks for telling me, you Frenemies.

- Getting very cranky when my blood sugar runs low.

- Having my husband tell me, "Maybe you should eat something," when I seem even remotely grumpy.

- Removing an old roll of plastic from my parents' basement this summer, only to discover the carcasses of 75 dead spiders. *shudder*

- Screaming like a little girl with my sister in law upon making that gruesome discovery.
- Realizing my parents were borderline hoarders and that me and my siblings were the interventionists.

AWESOME

- Taking home some sweet finds from my hoarder parents - including an old-school Adidas workout bag and 374 rolls of toilet paper. (This is, sadly, not a joke).
- Seeing tangible results of my weight loss. My clothes fit better! The flights of stairs that I walk up during my lunchtime walk are easier! My tummy looks smaller!

- By the end of this week, I'll have run 17K in total in Week 1 of my half-marathon training. Yay!

- Finding this website and trying two new recipes that were super awesome and low in Weight Watchers points.

- Getting my new subsciption to Marie Claire.

- Reading so many comments on my blog this week. You ladies ROCK.

- Joining Kendi's next 30 for 30. Have you signed up yet??

Channelling Miranda Hobbs

2011-01-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

Turtleneck: Twik

Belt: Smart Set

Pants: Eddie Bauer

Cardigan: Ricki's

Boots: Brown's

Sex and the City

gave us Charlotte, Sam, Carrie

but I'm Miranda* . . .

* for today anyway :)

I walked by the bathroom mirror today and "Miranda Hobbs" popped into my mind. Maybe it's the turtleneck or the fact that my hair is short but I totally felt like a high-powered lawyer today (minus the budget for Manolos).

Also, as I've mentioned previously, I've been on Weight Watchers for the past few weeks. In 2 weeks, I've lost 4.8 lbs! My next weigh-in is tomorrow, and I suspect I'll be down a few more pounds, especially if these pants are any indication.

They are - quite literally - falling off me! I must have shed a few inches from my waist since they now sit on my hips. Looking at these photos, I see now that they don't fit so well anymore. What a lovely problem to have ;)

A Letter to My Hubby

2011-01-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

T-shirt: Gap

Hoodie: Lululemon

Jeans: DKNY

Sneakers: Converse

For better or worse

we promised one another

you meant it; I'm glad.

Dear Hubby,

Tonight was our date night - the only night in the week when we can enjoy each others company without the distraction of our Blackberries, paper work, essays or workouts. And while some nights are spectacularly planned with a romantic picnic or an elaborate five course meal at a fancy restaurant, some nights are quiet, like tonight. Simply sushi, and then coming home to crash in bed early.

Truthfully, I prefer nights like this - ones where we can just sit, talk, catch up on our week and just look - really look - at one another. As corny as it seems, just being around you makes me happy and content.

So this evening, I want to thank you. For being the kind of husband who texts me during the day to tell me he misses me. For not caring if I'm 10 lbs heavier or 10 lbs thinner. For taking out the garbage every day without complaint. For telling me I look hot when I'm wearing my lululemon hoodie and oldest pair of jeans on our date night. For giving me those great big, squeezy hugs that tell me you love me without words.

You make my life easy and fun. And I couldn't ask for more.

Love,

I Wasn't Kidding About the Snow

2011-01-24T20:34:00.001-07:00

Shirt: Gap

Scarf: Jacob

Skirt: Modcloth
Belt: Levi's

Tights: Old, who knows
Booties: Madden Girl

Snow, snow and more snow

It's a non-stop cycle of

shovel, lift, repeat.

Here's some information to give you some context about how much snow we've had.

Today's photos are outside on our deck.

Our deck is just under two feet high.

The snow is piled at least a foot higher than our deck.

Yeahhhhhh . . . it's been snowy here.

On a brighter note, I'm excited to have an outside photo to post today! It's slowly but surely getting lighter out in the evenings. Now if only spring would melt this snow away . . .

Playing Mommy / Confirmation God Knows What He's Doing

2011-01-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

Max and I at the bowling alley. Sorry - no pics of my nieces. My SIL doesn't like putting their photos up in social media.

Lessons, snack time, bed;
Rise and repeat tomorrow.
When do Moms get rest?!?!

This weekend, my hubby and I had the pleasure of babysitting our nieces (aged 6 and 8) at our place while their parents take a much-needed weekend away in the mountains. This is not the first time the girls have slept over, but it is their longest stay with us. And WOW - if this is what parenting is like, I am giving all you moms out there a huge fist bump right now. Serious props.

Our weekend felt exceedingly busy. Highlights include:

- Picking them up from their figure skating lessons Friday afternoon
- Dinner at Boston Pizza
- Playing Wii until bedtime
- Skiing lessons at 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning (M., if you are reading this, you owe us for this one!)
- A healthy lunch at home of home-made extra lean burgers, veggies and dip and oven baked fries
- More Wii and then a shower for the 8 year old and a bath for the 6 year old
- Bowling (at an actual bowling alley, not on the Wii!)
- A rushed dinner of Baked "Fried" Chicken, mashed potatoes and corn
- Watching Alpha and Omega on DVD
- Making pizzas together for lunch (the 8 year old cut the mushrooms and helped cut peppers while the 6 year old helped grate cheese and spread the pizza sauce)
- Playing outside in the 4 feet of snow
- Toboganning at the park near our place

I am amazed that my sister in law (and so many of you!) do this day in and day out - some while working a full-time job! How do you find time to take care of your kiddies, still look incredible, AND have time to blog?? I only spent a weekend playing mommy and I feel exhaussssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssknfak;nmfa . . . sorry, I just fell asleep on my keyboard.

All kidding aside, this weekend was a huge blessing to us. We were able to spend quality time with our nieces; they had a BLAST (the 6 year old informed us Saturday afternoon at snack time that she would be content living with Max and I the rest of her life!); and my SIL and BIL were able to enjoy their weekend away, knowing the girls were in good hands.

But perhaps the greatest gift this weekend was the fact that it gave me peace knowing that God really does know what He's doing. Brief history: my husband and I have been trying to conceive for 3 years and 3 months (not that I'm counting, ha ha). Without going into the deep and sordid history, I'll just say that it's been a very difficult journey, and it's only in the past six months or so that I've been able to accept that God's will for us may not include children.

While I used to focus alot on what we'd be missing (i.e. the pitter patter of children's feet in our home; watching our kids grow up; grandchildren when we're old), recently my husband and I have changed our thoughts to focus on the advantages of not having children. For example, being able to sleep in every weekend. The ability to pick up and travel somewhere exotic at a moment's notice. Being able to financially support missions and charities we believe in. Our roles as the cool aunt and uncle whom our two nieces and three nephews can count on and turn to.

This weekend was super fun, but it was also a huge reminder that God really does know what he's doing. It's funny - a year ago, I would never have been able to write this post, but today I feel stronger having gone through what I have. And having spent a weekend playing mommy, I can honestly say that I am OK with the fact that I may never have my own children.

Whoa, I realize this is kinda deep for a Sunday post, but this is something that has really been on my mind recently. Lighter post tomorrow, K? Pinky swear.

Awesome and Awkward Thursday

2011-01-20T11:47:00.001-07:00

Awkward Jo Photo of the Week!

It's time for my weekly edition of Awesome and Awkward Thursday! Whoo!

AWKWARD

- Calling your teacher "Mom" when you were a kid.

- Calling your boss by your husband's name when you're 30.

- Finding out that the gross rotting container in the communal work fridge actually belonged to you. Oopsie.

- Having your husband walk in on you when you're bleaching your mustache. I'm a sexy beast, I know.

- Trudging through snow drifts a foot high and trying to maintain your dignity.

AWESOME

- My husband. He's super supportive of my Weight Watchers and half-marathon training, and I love him to death. He's pretty much the best thing in my life.

- Buying myself my Valentine's Day gift from the jewelry party that I'm attending at lunch today. (My hubby said: "Great! Saves me the time and difficultly of choosing something you'll like!")

- Winning the $50 gift card from Ashley this week.

- Losing 2.2 lbs last week! Whoo!

- Having a secure job in this economy.

Mediterranean Palette

2011-01-19T19:27:00.000-07:00

T shirt: Smart Set

Cardigan: Pure Alfred Sung

Pants: RW&Co skinny pants

Shoes: David Dixon

Greek food is great but

its rich colours inspire

a colorful Jo :)

I want to start my post by thanking everyone for the excellent suggestions from yesterday's post. Making lists seems to be a popular idea. I am actually a big list person, so it's funny that I haven't thought to make a life to-do list! Thanks for the reminder.

Today's outfit is inspired by the wonderful colors found in Mediterranean food. Rich olive green and the burgundy wine - I never thought to pair these two colors before, but then I remember seeing a blogger wearing this palette and I filed it away for future use. Unfortunately, I can't remember which blogger it was . . . if it was you, please let me know! ;)

As I was taking my outfit photo today, a thought came to mind. I think that some of you in the blogosphere may know more about me than some of my friend IRL!! I share alot of my life, my fears and my hopes here, because it feels like a safe place to do it. The outfit blogging community is so supportive and welcoming. It's uber cheesy, I know, but I feel truly blessed to have found this community of friends. I have met so many AMAZING bloggers who I know I would connect with in person (like you, you and you!). And even though I may never meet you IRL, please know that I count you among my friends :)

You ladies rock :)

Overwhelmed

2011-01-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

Dress: RW&Co

T-shirt: Smart Set

Booties: Madden Girl

Too much to do, and

so little time to do it

I'm so overwhelmed.

Today is one of those days that I feel like I have too much to do and too little time. I'm training for a half marathon, working full time, doing the household chores while my husband devotes his time to growing our business, taking online courses towards a Communications degree, mentoring two 16-year old girls and trying to lose 15 lbs via Weight Watchers . . . I can now admit I've bitten off more than I can chew.

I know I'm not the only one who's in this predicament. I know something's got to go. But what? How do you prioritize what's important? I'd love to hear from you lovely ladies.

But onto a brighter topic. Today I won Ashley's $50 gift certificate to Forever 21. So exciting!! She is so sweet - this card was not sponsored at all. It came out of her own pocket, which makes it that much more special. Check out her blog - she has lovely, work-appropriate style and she's a great storyteller. I love reading about her work stories!

A Place to Hide

2011-01-14T18:07:00.000-07:00

White tank top: Only

Black sweatshirt: Roots Athletics

Jeggings: HBC

Boots: Hushpuppies

Need a place to hide?

My sweatshirt provides a place

To hide from the world.

Reasons I Want to Hide Today

1) I might have got a photo radar ticket driving to work today. Ugh.

2) I have a zit on my chin.

3) It was -34C with the wind chill today.

4) This sweatshirt is new and oh-so-comfy, and the perfect hiding place. (Turtles have had the right idea all along!)

5) This is an ultra, ultra casual outfit for work today . . . probably a bit too casual, really. So I was hiding from the fashion police.

Awesome and Awkward Thursday!

2011-01-13T15:06:00.001-07:00

Via

My awkward tribute
to my mostly awesome life.
Look for it Thursdays!

The always hilarious Sydney posts a list of awesome and awkward things every Thursday, and I've decided to participate. What can you add to this list?

AWKWARD

- Walking into an empty elevator that stinks like a fart, then having someone join you on the elevator and assume it was you who made the stinky.

- Changing out of your work clothes, only to realize your underwear has been inside out the entire day.

- Doing the exact same thing two days later.

- Having to pull out every card, receipt and random piece of paper out of your tiny change purse to find enough change to pay for your Diet Dr. Pepper. Now the convenience store guy knows how much is left on my Starbucks card, and that I bought tampons from Costco the other day. Talk about TMI.

- Finding a hair on your plate . . . after you've polished off your meal.

- Having your Irritable Bowel Syndrome flare up so suddenly that you have to pull into a local recreation centre and use their facilites.

- Blogging about having IBS.

- Calling your husband in the middle of the day, and then forgetting what you called to talk to him about.

- Crying in every episode of The Biggest Loser. I should invest in Kleenex stock at the rate I go through those things every Tuesday night.

- Watching my husband snow-blow the 3 feet of snow we got this past week . . . from the comfort of our warm kitchen . . . while he braves the -20C temperatures.

AWESOME

- Seeing how happy my husband's is with his new Ford Econoline Extended Van. He's like a kid on Christmas morning!

- Being successful enough in our business to afford the new van.

- Improving in 6 out of 8 areas of my Insanity fit test this week. Whoo!!

- Buying sweet workout gear for a fraction of the normal cost at Costco.

- Being featured on Kimberly's January Inspiration Calendar.

- Having a network of colleagues who are supportive, encouraging and can relate on those I'm-gonna-kill-someone days!

- Finishing my first week of Weight Watcher's without cheating! Whoo!

- When my hubby rolls over in bed in the morning and asks, "Is there anything I can pray for you today?"

- Planning our trip to Europe this fall.

In a word: Brown.

2011-01-12T18:16:00.001-07:00

White tank: Smart Set

Oatmeal top: Gap super soft T

Brown pants: Reitmans

Boots: Brown's

Infinity scarf: Twik

Don't you sometimes feel
so blah that you don't even
want to get dressed up?

Today is one of those days. It is majorly freezing where I live (-24C or -11F). Getting up in the pitch dark is hard enough without planning an outfit, too.

I think I have the winter blues. No - correction - the winter browns.

My outfit is totally based on the fact that I wanted to wear pants to work today. There was no way I was going to be exposing my legs to these kinds of frigid temps, even if said legs are encased in two layers of tights. I may be training for a half marathon soon and going through the grueling Insanity DVD series, but really, I'm not a masochist! :)

What's the weather like for you folks?

Short but sweet

2011-01-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

Green ruffled shirt: Modcloth

Navy cardigan: Rickis

Black dress pants: Smart Set

Belt: Smart Set

Shoes: a discount place in Montreal

A super fast post
as hubby runs us a bath
more tomorrow, k?

Biker chic

2011-01-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

Leather jacket: Fairweather

White button down: Gap

Grey Sweater: Rickis

Skinny pants: RW&Co

Flats: Charles David for Town Shoes

I'm bad to the bone

The baddest girl in a black

leather jacket - yeah!

I'd like to believe I've got a little bit of bad girl in me. I wasn't always such a happy-go-lucky outfit blogger with terrible posing skills (see above photos). Nope, I once was in high school and I was a rebel with a capital R.

Oh, those were the days! Partying late, smoking cigarettes (and other substances), drinking underage . . . Nowadays, I feel like a bad girl if I stay up past 10:30 p.m. on a week night. Or cook with wine instead of chicken stock. Or skip a workout and blog instead.

The moral of this story? Enjoy your youth. :)

Who's counting? I am!

2011-01-07T14:24:00.000-07:00

Via

I am counting points
These stubborn fifteen pounds
Need to go for good.

Sorry for the lack of posting yesterday. But I have a good excuse. I was sitting in a room of 50 people learning about Weight Watchers' new Points Plus system, trying to look nonchalant while secretly panicking as I calculated the point value of a bag of Ruffles sour cream and onion chips in my head . . . (you don't want to know!!).

Yes, I've decided to sign up for WW. I was hesitant to share this with the blogosphere because of the mixed reaction I've been getting from people in real life. While most people have been positive, there have been a few people who have questioned why I would want to do it ("You don't need to lose weight!") or who have questioned the Weight Watchers method ("Why can't you just exercise and eat right?")

Well here's the thing - Weight Watchers is one of the best - if not, THE best - weight loss system around. Their system is based on food science and clinical trials, and it is all about moderation. The best part of it, IMHO, is that you don't have to eat expensive, pre-packaged foods. I get to cook and eat the stuff I like - within my point guideline.

I won't go in-depth into how the program works, since it's been written about all over the Internet (check here, here, and here for more info). But I will tell you why I decided to join.

In my early 20s, I was really active, working out abour 3-5 times a week. I ate anything I wanted, and with youth on my side, I was able to keep the pounds off and maintain a very healthy weight for my size and my shape.

In my late 20s, I became more sedentary, reducing my workouts to twice a week. Why workout when you have an oh-so-distracting, handsome and charming French guy courting you, right? ;) However, I became very interested in nutrition and cooking, and this change in eating habits helped keep weight gain to a minimum.

It's only been in the last year or two that I've noticed my metabolism slow. To. A. Crawl. Ladies, if you haven't reached the big 3-0 yet, I want to warn you that what they say is true: your metabolism will slow down and it will be harder than ever to get rid of unwanted junk in the trunk. Not to scare you or anything, lol, but I don't want you to be unprepared.

Although my diet is quite healthy and I have stepped up my workouts quite a bit (I'm currently doing the Insanity program - it's quite literally, insane), the stubborn scale hasn't budged. As a result, I feel fat, sluggish and really down about myself . . . and I *hate* that one number has this power over me!!

I had a choice. Continue to moan and complain and be miserable, or take action. The latter is so much more attractive, so I decided to join WW. Over the next three months, I am hoping to lose 15 to 20 lbs. I think this is a very realistic goal, considering the average weight loss on WW is 1 to 2 lbs each week. I'm hoping to be down 20 lbs total by the time I run my first half marathon in June (more details of this to come).

In the mean time, I look forward to reading about all of your journeys as you continue to care for your bodies! And if you're reading this now and have some weight to lose, why not take action today? As my WW leader said to us yesterday, "Today is the start of all your tomorrows!"

P.S. - Doesn't Jennifer Hudson look GOOD?!? What a role model!

Trifecta of Suck . . . and a Joke

2011-01-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

Green Tank: Old Navy

White tank: Smart Set

Black cardigan: Twik

Skirt: Urban Behaviour

Leggings: Designer Depot

Boots: Hunter

January comes
I am broke and five pounds more
Aaaaaaand my paycheque sucks.

One of the reasons I decided to keep this blog going after the 30 for 30 is that it's the perfect place to whine and complain. Guess what kind of post this is today?! Lucky readers, you.

I get paid on Friday, and normally this is cause to celebrate, and not mourn. However, January is month with the Trifecta of Suck. What is the Trifecta of Suck? Oh - let me tell you, sister!

1) Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions are back.
For my American friends, CPP is a mandatory deduction that is taken off every Canadian's paycheque. How much you pay is based on how much you make. Every Canadian must pay into this fund until they reach the age of 65, at which point, they are eligible to receive the money back from the government.

Well, due to the Baby Boomers, we are now in a crisis where a very large population of seniors are withdrawing from CPP. Normally, the amount of money they put into the plan (if invested correctly) would be enough to cover the cost of the Boomers. However, the life expectancy of the average senior is now waaaay higher than it was 30 years ago when they started paying. So now these seniors are collecting an average of 10 to 20 years longer than expected (which the government hadn't accounted for). And with fewer people in my generation paying into the fund, you have a perfect storm of suckage for people my age.

Anyhoo, every year my employer takes off more CPP from January to October so that I don't need to pay in November and December, the holiday months. This is meant to make it easier for us around the holiday season, but in actuality, it just makes us used to an extra few hundred bucks each paycheque! Sigh.

2) My pension contributions are up.
Recently my union and my employer came up with a new agreement that will see a whopping 11.2% of my income deducted towards my pension fund (my employer tops it up with another 6.75%). While this is good in the long term, it sure stinks today! Ha.

3) Income tax has gone up.
The federal government has increased our income tax rate. I'd be OK with this if the government were committing to increasing publicly funded services - but they're not. So I'm not OK with this.

So for the next month, if I start to look a little malnourished, you'll know it's because I'm living on a diet of ramen noodles and Kraft dinner. Maybe I'll throw in a cut up hot dog once in awhile too, for a little variety.

Okay, I hate leaving you on such a downer so I'll tell you a joke. How are men and parking spaces alike? All the good ones are taken and the rest are handicapped.

:)

2004 All over again!

2011-01-04T18:21:00.001-07:00

Tank: Smart Set

Cardigan: Rickis

Infinity scarf: Simons

Jeggings: HBC
Boots: Steve Madden

This isn't ideal
but it will do until I
get my new camera.

Today, my fashionable friends, I'm taking you back in time. Six years back, in fact. Think back to 2004.

Facebook was in its infancy. Justin Bieber was eight years old. George W. Bush won his second term in the Oval Office. And the camera I used to take this photo was produced.

I found our old, beat up Canon Power Shot A510 this weekend and decided to take some test shots. Not too bad for a camera that was made the same year the Summer Olympics were hosted in Athens. It will do until I get my gift card.

Look forward to more photos in the coming weeks!

Stolen Photos

2011-01-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

My camera's still down
So here are some pics I stole
from sister's Facebook!

So there was a loooooot of eating and parties during my Christmas break. Since my Blackberry is still out of commission and I still haven't received my gift card to buy a new camera, I am reduced to having to steal photos from my sister's Facebook. Lame, but resourceful, if I do say so myself.

The top photo was Christmas day at my sister C's place. The little boy who is mesmerized by my beauty is my nephew, Josh. I swear, everytime I see this kid, he gets cuter and cuter!!

The other photo is of the baby shower that my other sister H (behind me) and our friend K threw for my nephew. Believe it or not, there was even more food than that! I blame it solely on my mom, who always taught me that it is better to have too much food than too little.

Happy New Year, everyone! Looking forward to reading about your lives in 2011!