Kashi does the body good

I love, love, love Kashi cereals!

I think they are fantastic tasting, and from what I can tell, they also seem to be rather good for you. They contain all natural ingredients, no preservatives, and some of them are organic. There are many different varieties, and they do vary in their nutritional benefits so you do need to read the nutritional information to compare.

My personal favourites are "Go Lean" (5 grams of fiber, 13 grams of protein per serving) and "Organic Cinnamon Harvest" (6 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein per serving). I love mixing several varieties together in my bowl and creating my own unique cereal combination making the possibilities endlessly delish! They taste yummy, and they fill you up. Cereal perfection!

Then for all those who live in the US, there are also the Kashi Go Lean Crunchy bars. Yes, sadly enough these are not available in Canada (and I have been waiting a few years already). Definitely worth importing from the US if you can. These are amazing all natural protein and fiber bars. They are scrumptious and vary in protein content from 6-9 grams per bar, and fiber 5-6 grams per bar, all for an impressive 150-180 calories per bar. I love to eat these when I'm rushing out in the morning and don't have time for a proper breakfast, or when I'm working a particularly busy shift and I don't have the time to scoff down anything else. Of course, it is fine to take your time eating these too, I'm sure they'll taste even better :)

Do your body good!

Pregnant in heels

Sounds crazy doesn't it? Well, it is!

I hardly watch any television, because so little of what is out there manages to grab and hold on to my attention. This Slice(Canada)/Bravo (USA) channel show however has accomplished exactly that.

Oddly enough I am not pregnant, and in fact my pregnancy years are w-e-ll behind me. Also, even when I was pregnant I absolutely never wore heels, or even considered it (after all I was balance challenged in flats). Yet somehow, I find this show a total blast.

The pregnant women on the show are mostly totally whacked (entirely out of touch with the real world), however the "star" of the show, Rosie Pope the maternity concierge, is quite endearing and knowledgeable. It is interesting how she confidently rocks her clients' worlds with practical reality. The added interesting thing about her is she seems very intelligent, and is able to explain many medical issues with total clarity and accuracy. This is something precious few lay people manage to do, no matter who writes their scripts for them. I believe she is bright enough to genuinely understand the stuff she discusses (apparently she briefly studied neuroscience at Columbia). Her show also touches on a more somber side of her life, as she is amazingly candid about her own serious struggles to conceive her second child (failed IVF, ectopic pregnancy, etc). Entirely refreshing.

Thus the reason, I, a non-pregnant, rarely heel wearing, reluctant TV watching woman, am rather hooked on Rosie Pope and her Pregnant in Heels show. Worth at least a peek I think.

She also has an informative website (it includes a link to her blog) www.rosiepope.com

Enjoy :)

Time to make a new friend

If you don't already know about Etsy, I think it would be worth your while to get acquainted. Etsy is an online community that connects you with cool artisans from all over the place, and lets you find truly amazing and unique handmade items. I have been an Etsy fan for a while, and have managed to find incredible deals there. I have found everything from stationary, to wall decals, to jewelry, to art work. The list is practically endless. Before you think this is the kind of sometimes shabby stuff you find at the local craft fair, think again, these are top notch professional quality items minus the middle man. You  have to check it out to understand.

The other unique part of this experience is that you can also communicate directly with the different artisans and commission entirely custom items. Incredible!

Check them out. www.etsy.com Fun and fantastic stuff!

How about you?

Isn't that juicy food for thought?

Crazy how many varied things I can come up with... 

Now the challenge is to figure out a way not to let fear of x/y/z  hold me back. 

Not so easy, yet very interesting.

Enjoy the self-contemplation!

Manicure Pedicure 101

I'm a firm believer that every girl should know how to accomplish her own fabulous manicure and pedicure, as a rite of passage.

Getting it done in a salon can be pricey and dicey, and even if you can easily afford it and revel in the pampering, in life, its always smart to have a back-up plan.

Years ago one of my beloved Croatian cousins shared with me that she often did her own nails, and when I marveled at how amazing they looked, she pointed out that it doesn't take a genius, it just takes practice. In fact, she said the first hundred times would be hideous, and after I'd be on my way. She was right!

Here are my tips on how to do it yourself. First, you need the right tools, and secondly you need to be patient with your artistry. You'll get there. Promise.

You can likely buy everything you need at your local pharmacy. Buy the best clippers, files, etc that you can afford and they will literally last you a lifetime. Yes, Tweezerman products are pricey, but they are worth every penny.

Items I recommend:

• Good moisturizing nail polish remover and cotton pads
• Good quality nail clippers (Henkles or Tweezerman)
• Good quality cuticle pusher (Tweezerman)
• Good quality cuticle clipper (Tweezerman or Revlon)
• Metal nail file (for nail edge)
• Cardboard buffing nail files for nail bed
• Base coat (First Base by Essie)
• Nail polish (Essie or Butter London)
• Top coat (Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Anti-Chip Top Coat)

This is how you do it:

1. First, remove all of your old polish. Even if you aren't wearing any, wipe every nail with polish remover to remove any natural oil and dirt residue.
2. Cut your nails to desired length with nail clipper (short is always best, and easier to work with).
3. Push the cuticle down off each nail with the cuticle pusher.
4. Cut the cuticle and hangnails off with cuticle clipper (do it slowly until you get the hang of it so you don't cut your skin and bleed). Yes, I know, they always say just push the cuticle down. I don't know any professional manicurist who doesn't cut the cuticle off, and I find there is no way the manicure looks as good or lasts as long if you don't.
5. File down the nails.
6. File all the rough parts of the nail (often the part of the nail you pushed the cuticle off of needs to be smoothed out).
7. Wash your nails with water only to remove all the fine residue from the filing, and wipe dry.
8. Apply Essie "First Base" base coat (the best one I have ever tried).
9. Apply the nail polish of your choice (I think Essie is particularly easy to work with). Start with light pink or nude colors (Essie Mademoiselle is a good bet) because they are more forgiving. Always use as little polish on your brush as possible, to give as thin of a coat as possible. Try to put the first brush stroke in the middle of the nail (that way if you have too much polish on your brush it spreads out rather than pooling into the crevice at the side of your nail and making a mess), and then work the next strokes beside the middle one. Don't brush all the way to the base or sides of the nail bed, rather put the brush down on your nail further away from the edge, and gently nudge the brush down to the base and sides (this is how you get full coverage without any globbing at those difficult spots).
10. Wait about 5 minutes between coats. If you have put a very thin coat on, it should be dry to the light touch in that length of time. Often when you are starting your coats will be thicker, so you'll need to give yourself more drying time. Try not to do more than 2 coats, or else it will take a long while for your polish to set and be smudge proof. 
11. After the second coat you don't need to wait more than 2 minutes to apply the top coat I recommend. In fact, by the time you have finished applying the polish to your second had, it is time to start with the top coat on your first hand. THE world's best top coat is Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Anti-Chip top coat. It dries your nails in 60 seconds flat. Seriously it works! 60 seconds after application they will be dry to light touch. I would recommend being careful with your hands for 20 min to ensure absolutely no damage. Also, this is the necessary magic ingredient that will ensure your hard work lasts. I wash my hands probably a hundred times a day (at least) when I work, and my manicure can last an entire week with this. If you aren't this hard on your hands, yours may last longer. 
12. Follow the same instructions for your toes, other than making sure to use a pumice on your heels in the shower if you need it, wedge little cotton pads between your toes if they overlap, and wear flip flops for at least 2 hours after a pedicure before putting on closed toe shoes to ensure no damage (if you wear socks you can probably put them on in an hour). Pedicures can last 2-3 weeks. 

Now that I have gotten quite swift at this, I can manage dark polishes as well, and I can do both a mani and a pedi in about 45 min. 

Best of luck, and remember patience & perseverance. Always keep it fun, and never sweat the small stuff!

Allez-Up

The friendliest place in the world to enjoy indoor rock climbing.

My daughter and I got into this a couple of years ago, and our love for it is still going strong. This is one of those simple, yet incredible places where you immediately feel comfortable even though you might be heading into entirely uncharted territory for yourself.

If you are a beginner, they aptly take you under their wings and belay you (support you with a harness to prevent you from falling if you slip) as you embark on this new adventure. If you are an experienced climber you can get certified to belay with a friend, and they also most certainly have walls that will challenge you.

The cost is reasonable ($17.50/person for non-members, with a minimum of two climbers, belay provided), it is a great work-out if you push yourself. I find that rock climbing is one of those activities that occupies your mind while you are working on your body, and therefore is a real break/escape from the other things in life.

If you need them to belay you, book your visit ahead of time.

For more detailed information: www.allezup.com

If you don't live in Montreal, I'm sure you can find a great indoor rock climbing place near you.
Try it. It's a blast!

(picture not from Allez-Up)

Fiji

Simply THE best tasting water this side of heaven!

I'm sorry, I guess I'm a teeny bit of a water snob... I do come by it honestly though. The problem is that I'm kinda defective, in that I find it a daily challenge to drink a healthy amount of fluids. In an attempt to at least force myself to drink something that is both good for my body, and good tasting, I have allowed myself to regularly indulge in the world's most delicious water.

What exactly should water taste like you ask? Absolutely nothing. That is the key. For water to be its most pristine sparkling and refreshing self, it can't be tainted with even the hint of flavor or aftertaste. Fiji accomplishes that to pure smooth perfection. Their website explains it more detail than I can: www.fiji.ca

Water does the body good.

Treat yourself, and experience the difference. 

Something to ponder...

Every so often a brilliant writer out there manages to write something that really makes me think. This link is to a piece that was published in the NY Times, and accomplished exactly that for me, it is about Steve Jobs
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/30/opinion/sunday/steve-jobss-genius.html.

One of the aspects in this article that resonates most with me is the notion that the future of innovation is in the hands of the children out there who are the most creative, the most genius if you will, among the mass of overachievers. Nurturing rather than folding that naturally creative spirit into a box is the challenge that society faces.

Check it out and see what you THINK.

Smells sooo nice

For me scented candles are one of life's special indulgences. There is something decadent about my surroundings being enveloped in a scent I enjoy. Scents can relax you, energize you, or simply feel inexplicably pleasing. Lovely.

That being said, I find it quite challenging to find scented candles that do what they are intended to do. I have tried many, and in a moment of desperation have even paid ridiculous amounts of money for a few in an attempt to get one that smelled, and I was unfortunately disappointed time and time again.

Hands down, my all time favorite scented candles are by a company called Archipelago Botanicals. Their smells are smooth and authentic, quite simply heavenly. I find the Mango Tangerine (my #1) and Pomegranate Citrus (my #2) are the most delicious. This company has many varied scents (even Bergamot Tobacco), so there is something for everyone.

The only place I know they sell them in Montreal is Arthur Quentin on St.Denis www.arthurquentin.com This is a store I love love love, and I have already proclaimed its praises in a separate post (suffice it to say that if you go, I would bet you walk out with more than the candles).

I haven't found a great Canadian website that sells them. They do sell them on-line at  the US Amazon www.amazon.com .

My second favorite scented candle company is one called Lucia. Unlike the other brand, I haven't found that every scent from these candles reliably emits the same concentration of scent. The best one is Olive Blossom & Laurel, which is a great crisp scent for the kitchen. I also find their scent diffusers work well. One of the definite bonuses of this brands is that they are a Montreal based company (rock on). They are very easily accessible through many retailers, including Chapters stores and on-line www.chapters.indigo.ca, and several of the scents are currently 50% off at Chapters.

I hope these little finds provide you with hours of relaxation and inspiration. Peace.

Gnocchi from heaven

One of my all time favorite Italian specialties (of which there are many), are gnocchi. When gnocchi are made well, and taste the way they are intended to taste, namely light and fluffy with only a touch of chewiness, they are utterly fabulous! I love the way these delectable little pillows from heaven melt in my mouth.

Recently The Montreal Gazette introduced me to the culinary genius of Luciano Lecas, who makes the gnocchi at Buona Notte restaurant in Montreal. Watch Luciano make them www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQI6cqOZ9Zc so you can understand where I'm coming from. Being a total sucker for a good story, I was seriously intrigued. Therefore this year for my birthday, my husband, my children and I had dinner there for me to savor Luciano's specialty. The rest is history. They were everything I had hoped they would be, and more! I regularly dream about the next time I will have them (and I have been back several times).

This dish is surprisingly reasonably priced for something this scrumptious ($19, if memory serves), and you can have it during either the lunch or dinner sitting. Luciano makes the gnocchi 6 days a week, so you may want to call ahead to make sure they have them on the menu that day (I went once when they didn't have them and I was very seriously disappointed).

The ultra ultra special treat is also having them for dessert. If you go for lunch Luciano will make them with butter and cinnamon (this isn't on the menu, you have to ask). Technically it isn't available for dinner at all, but if you happen to be lucky and Max is there (one of the owners, and Luciano's son), he has a soft spot for this Italian treat, and if you ask nicely, he will allow the chef to make it for you. If you are a gnocchi lover, as I am, definitely worth the begging!

Buon appetito

Marvelous method

I have been proclaiming my undying love for method cleaning products for years! I love their soap, their dishwashing liquid, dishwasher tablets, all purpose cleaner, window cleaner, bathroom scrub, toilet cleaner, room spray, stainless steel cleaner, wood cleaner, laundry detergent, and finally fabric softener. Yes, I'm a method girl.

You can check out more information about their philosophy, and browse through the full line of products on their website: www.methodhome.com

Why are they so great you ask? For starters and most importantly, because they work marvelously well. Then secondly, they are entirely non-toxic for humans and the environment. I LOVE that! I strongly believe there is something not OK about filling our lives with unnecessary potentially harmful chemicals. Did I mention they also smell entirely lovely?

Probably my all time favorite method product is their lemongrass kitchen soap. This stuff is downright magic! While I love the earthy smell of garlic on my finger tips after I have lovingly cooked dinner for my family, the next day the smell can be nauseating. They advertise this soap as "garlic has met its match". Darn right! A small spritz and wash with this delectable soap and all lingering food smells on your finger tips are a distant memory.

I have only seen it with a stainless steel colored bottle in Montreal, but on-line I was only able to find a picture of the clear bottle. Go figure. I imagine it comes in various packaging (maybe different in Canada vs. US).

Method products are sold at many retailers, including pharmacies and grocery stores, as well as on line at www.well.ca  (a previous post). In Montreal I find Canadian Tire has the widest selection, and the best prices (though not vastly different).

People against dirty, unite!

Macs are THE BOMB - all of them ;)

OK, Apple really does not need any help from me promoting any of their products. Being the second largest company on the planet, even after the untimely demise of their main creative force, they are fine all on their own...

I still can't help myself, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Apple products. LOVE them. Why do I love them them you ask? I love them because they do what they are supposed to do, and they keep on doing what they are supposed to do, and they can be figured out by the non-computer genius echelon of our society (i.e.. me). In short, they simply work, like magic on fire! xoxo

My love affair started in earnest about 3 years ago when I bought myself a MacBook Pro for the first time. It was an experience straight out of wonderland, filled with ease and surprise and pure awe. Everything worked better than the commercial promised. I was literally bewildered that I could turn a computer on, and it just worked. As simple as that, it did. And most impressively, 3 years later, it still worked as well as the day I turned it on out of the box, without a single glitch, or a moment of slowing down a degree the human mind could possibly perceive. Impressive to say the least.

Over time I have become a true Apple freak. I have since bought an iMac, several iTouches, an iPad, I had a iPod from long ago that still works perfectly, and I convinced my mom to get an iMac and she wonders why all computers aren't made this way... The only product I don't yet have is the iPhone, but after this crazy BB blackout sh*t this week, I will be switching over as soon as my finances and carrier will allow....

I just bought myself a new MacBook Pro today *sigh*. I have a very special bond with my old one, I LOVE it, but this one already has a special place in my heart. Apple seems to have a crazy way of knowing exactly what needs to be updated, always. For example, my new backlit keyboard. LOVE it! I always had trouble typing in the dark, but I never once considered a backlit keyboard. Now that I have one I think it is absolutely nothing short of BRILLIANT! This is just one example of the constant innovation that Apple is notorious for, and they keep on delivering.

Even if you aren't going to buy a new Apple computer product today, certainly do your research and consider one for the future. If you already have one, then please know that there is a new operating system called "Lion" that you need to upgrade to. While the computer easily prompts your for all updates, this is not an update, this an upgrade. If you are on "Snow Leopard" then you can easily upgrade to Lion online through the app store. If you have Leopard. you first need to upgrade to snow leopard, and then to lion. That is where I was. I was lucky, and I got a very cool person who helped me at the iStore on St. Catherine's in Mtl, and it turns out if you have leopard, and you need snow leopard to get to lion, rather than buying the software online, you can go to an iStore and they can do that part for you for free. Bring your laptop in and tell them "someone" said it could be done. I DID IT TODAY, saves you $30. Better in your pocket than theirs. If you go in Mtl, ask for Jonathan on the second floor (genius bar area), he was one of the managers, and a really great guy. Then you go home and you buy the Lion upgrade, which will cost you $30 (sorry, that is a brand new operating system they do not give out for free). Important for the future, for iCloud (cool iTunes stuff at the least), and more...

Enjoy computers, the internet, and the heavenly place Apple has created for us all *sigh*

Dualit Lite

OK, so this post is bit out there as it is about a toaster!? Well, more accurately it is about THE toaster.

Who hasn't swooned over the classic styling of those Dualit toasters that seem to grace every single designer kitchen in those dreamy decorating magazines? I know I have, right up until I googled the price... The swoon quickly switched to shock, as $400 for a toaster has always seemed more than a tad steep to me.

I did a little research on why exactly the Dualit toaster costs quite that much, and why consumers are willing to pay. It turns out that the $400 Dualit toaster was created for industrial use, yes, the restaurant market. Also, part of the high cost is that it is still only hand made in the UK, and the added bonus is the Dualit is apparently manufactured in such a simple way (yes, they claim simple), that your Dualit can last you a life-time because when it breaks it is meant to be quite easily repaired, rather than replaced. All very good.

Now I have something even better! They have come out with a line of Dualit toasters called the Dualit Lite. These are still handmade in the UK, and are also meant to last forever thanks to simple mechanics. The difference is they are not manufactured for industrial use, and hence come to you at a substantial savings! Therefore, unless you are making as much toast each morning as a breakfast joint, this line should suit your needs just fine.

They sell them on-line at many retailers as well as Costco.ca www.costco.ca . The ones at Costco seem to only come in black and cream. If you are looking for a funkier color browse the net for another retailer like www.greenbeanery.ca that carries a gorgeous blue version. Approximately $80 for the 2-slice variety, and $150 for the 4-slice, long or chunky version. I have a 4-slice long version in black, and I love everything about it. It looks stylish, it works very reliably, and even has nice features like the sneak a peak, the bagel setting and frozen functions.

Most importantly, aren't they super pretty?

Back to Black, Aphrodisiac

Even the name jumps out and grabs your attention doesn't it? I assure you, the scent most certainly will as well.

This post is about what I believe to be the most sensationally sultry personal fragrance out there, ever. It is the result of scrumptious combination of sublime scent and seductive marketing. The brain child of Kilian, the scion of the Hennessy Cognac empire no less (later the LVMH group). The sales lady shared with me after having met him on a promotional tour, that he is just as heavenly as his creation. His fragrance is definitely something other-worldly. I'm fortunate enough to have received a bottle as a gift from my hubby, and each time I wear it, I'm complimented on the intriguing fragrance I'm wearing. I think that is probably the best way to describe it, distinctly "mysterious".

Even if you have no need for a new fragrance, or any intention to buy this one, I strongly suggest you make your way to the store to infuse your senses, even just once. It's worth it (and so are you).

It is available for a little less than the down payment on a luxury car (no joke, it don't come cheap), at your local Holt Renfrew in Canada, at Sacks Fifth Avenue in the US.

Kusmi tea

This post is mainly because I think this product is fantastic, but it is also a nod to the people in Russia who are reading my blog, which I find incredibly enchanting. Thank you!

I must say, I do enjoy a flavorful cup of tea. It doesn't seem like it should be something complicated, yet often I find the flavor of many teas I have tried falls flat. I believe many people who dislike tea probably feel this way because they have never tasted a truly superb tasting tea. They are an all too rare breed...

This is where Kusmi tea comes in. While there is a dizzying array of teas to sample out there, I find this to be one of my most reliably delicious standbys. It absolutely never fails to delight my senses. The flavors are deep, delicious, and lasting. They never taste bitter, hollow or watered down. They are utterly splendid!

Kusmi tea comes in incredible varieties, including the classics like Earl Grey, mixes of their own invention like Prince Vladimir and Anastasia, and fun loving mixes like Be Cool (a relaxing mix of peppermint and liquorice, equally tasty hot or cold, my favorite). They also make a line of organic teas under the name LOV.

I'm starting to see their teas pop up all over the place, from little specialty food stores (such as fantastic Douceurs du Marche at Atwater market), to large "we now sell everything" chains like Chapters, and finally there is a stand alone Kusmi store on St. Denis at 3875 rue St. Denis (between Roy and Duluth). Check out their website for the full scoop www.kusmi.ca . If you read the entire background story you will understand the Russian connection (the origins of tea section).

Be adventurous, experiment, let them tantalize your senses. Treat yourself, you deserve it!

Cocodot

I have been a Cocodot fan from the very first day they opened for business. They are an on-line card making and sending site. They also coordinate invitation sending, RSVPs, etc for small and big events.

What makes them super special is how wow incredibly cool and versatile their designs are. They are fully customizable, and the website is easy peesie lemon squeezie (as my kids would say). And this is why the people who run this company rock : the deal was that for a mere $19.99 you could send out as many cards as you wanted in a year (they are substantially more chic than anything you can get on those free websites, so well worth that price), and then I guess business was going very well, and they decided to make the card section free (you still have to pay for invitations), and they refunded part of the amount I had paid for this year! When does that ever happen? Seriously sophisticated. Since they are now free too, there is absolutely no reason to send an even slightly mediocre card again.

Check them out: www.cocodot.com

Here are some examples:

Send someone special some love today.

Bare Minerals make-up changed my life

I have never been one of those people who enjoys playing around with make-up. For me make-up became a necessary part of life as I aged, as my skin texture and tone changed, and when much to my dismay I started to develop break-outs as an adult, something I never suffered from as a teenager, go figure.

It took some time, and when I finally found a quality make-up brand, I was very loyal, sticking with it for years and years. Eventually I was compelled to look around for something different because I simply didn't feel my old make-up was performing optimally for me any longer. What I discovered was a life changing revelation.

If you are the kind of person who has a lovely complexion, and are never tempted to wear foundation or cover-up, this probably isn't for you. I tend to need a base to even out my skin tone every day in order to feel comfortable with the way I look, and is cheaper than therapy for my self esteem.

Before you decide either way about whether mineral make-up is right for you I would recommend you watch their instructional video on-line, which can be found on their website www.bareescentuals.com .

What I love about these products is they are very quick and easy to apply even the first time, they provide excellent coverage without looking like you are wearing a cake of make-up, they seem to moisturize my skin, they wear well, even if I break a sweat, the make-up seems to stick in place, it doesn't cause break-outs for me, they come in numerous shades and therefore can be matched with a variety of ethnicities, they contain natural SPF, and the last little nifty bit is it is an all powder make-up product and does not count towards the liquids you are permitted to take as carry on luggage when you travel (nifty, eh?).

The bright thing they have done is to sell a starter package that contains everything you need (powders and special brushes) to give this product a try. The starter kit is available at many retailers including the larger Pharmaprix stores (eg. Plaza Alexis Nihon), and of course Sephora.

Yet another bonus for me is the containers last forever, which translates into fewer trips to the store to restock. Life simplified! Always a good thing.

Wonderful Wordle

OK, I was seriously tempted to keep this one to myself... Then, the compulsive sharer in me got the best of the situation, and here we are.

This wordle thing is SO COOL. It's crazy ....

It is a website where you enter in a bunch of words, any words you want, and then the website creates this fantastically cool piece of custom art work for you to display, or share with friends. Oh my, it is a tad difficult to explain ....

For me the story begins with Iva & Stephen's bedroom... Not as sordid as it sounds. They were gracious enough to let my family stay at their home while they were out of town and we were visiting NYC. They had a super funky piece of word art hanging on their wall. I recently remembered it and set out on the net to try to find out where they got this, and was beyond thrilled to find out it was generated by simple free program available to us all.

This is an example of what you can do:

I don't have any major tips to share as I'm entirely new to this, so we will all be fumbling through it together. However, in my preliminary perusal I have found most of the things are customizable (reshuffling, colors, fonts, size of fonts, etc), therefore be sure to play around. I found the FAQ quite helpful, as some of the functions are not intuitive.

www.wordle.net

For starters you could use words related to things you are grateful for. We all sometimes need some reminding. We all also need some fun and easy creativity in our lives.
Enjoy. I know I will.

Serene Scents

My hands down all time favorite personal scents are Jo Malone. If you have never heard of them, smelled them or tried them, you absolutely must without question! There is something sublime about the incredibly diverse fragrances she has created. In my opinion, something spectacular and vastly different from the other fragrances on the market. My personal favorite is a deep, dark, fruity scent called Pomegranate Noir, though there are many more I adore almost as much. The line even wants you to get creative, and encourages fragrance blending! This art allows you to create your own unique singular scent, something that would result in certain hideousness if it were attempted with most any other fragrance lines.

I believe Holt Renfrew is the sole Canadian distributer of Jo Malone products. In the US they can be found in stand-alone Jo Malone shops as well as some select department stores.

In 1999, Jo Malone sold her fragrance empire to Estee Lauder, she stayed on as creative director until 2006, when she proceeded to take a break from the business. However, she says she never stopped dreaming of new fragrance combinations, it was simply a passion she was compelled to nurture.

Here is the interesting part...  She has decided to start a new fragrance company called Jo Loves. Exciting!!!! - sends chills down my spine (I too have a very close relationship with delightful scents). You can get the full scoop on the website,  www.joloves.com where she assures us this is something entirely novel, and completely spectacular.

I know she has more than peaked my interest! I cannot wait for the launch, which is slated to take place sometime this fall.

Splendid indeed.

Luscious Lemonade

Given the Indian summer we seem to be having I thought it would be fair enough to share this rather summery drink. I first met this little beauty during the summer at a pub called The Burgundy Lion in Montreal, down on rue Notre Dame. I don't officially have their recipe, but my attempts at reproducing it have received positive reviews (OK, rave reviews) therefore I feel safe sharing.

In a tall glass, mix equal parts of vodka and Limoncello (amount depends on how strong you want the drink to be, I put about a finger width or so of each), fill the glass 3/4 full with a good quality lemonade (either squeeze your own, or buy the all natural Tropicana or Simply brands), then add a generous few sprigs of fresh mint, stir, and fill the remainder of the glass with ice. To endless summers!

In case you aren't familiar with it, Limoncello is an Italian sweet lemon liquor. Many different brands make it, and it is readily available at any liquor store, even the SAQ in Quebec.

A friendly warning, this drink is totally smooth and delicious, and you have to be careful not to get carried away. As always, enjoy in mindful moderation.

Cheers!

Dexter - scary good

Yes, I'm one of those... While I hardly watch TV at all, I'm full-on hooked on Dexter. I only discovered it in season 4, and quickly rushed out to buy the previous seasons to catch up on the full scoop.

If you don't watch Dexter, it is a Showtime series. The premise is that Dexter is a young guy who never fully recovers from the childhood trauma of watching his mother be brutally murdered in front of him, and as a result becomes a serial killer. The twist is that he was adopted by the police officer who rescued him from that grizzly scene as a child, and as the only person who truly knows the real Dexter, he helps him curb his murderous tendencies by channelling them at people who 'deserve' that fate (ie. who have murdered others, and have somehow gotten away with it). He is in essence a vigilante serial killer.

What makes it fascinating is that Dexter works as a blood spatter analyst with the police, is trying to blend in as a normal citizen of the world (girlfriend, wife, children, etc), and you are privy to the dialogue that goes on in his head, which is wickedly funny. Yes, funny! This is a show that does not take itself too seriously, and is filled with clever dark humor. Great writing and great acting make it a real gem.

Yes, a show about a serial killer might be a tad edgy for some. However, as odd as it is to say, I think if you watch even one episode you'll find Dexter to be strangely endearing. Truthfully how many of us haven't at least fantasized about doing away with the scum of the earth at some time or another? The difference between us and him is that he follows through (well, sort of, it is just a TV show after all). In any case, whenever I hear about bad guys on the news getting away with something (all too often), I say they need to be Dexterized!

Season 6 is set to premiere on Showtime Sunday, October 2nd.
Follow this link to the Showtime website for some video clips www.sho.com/site/dexter/home.sho#fbid=POMDzRmy-eY

If this kind of show isn't your thing, I get it. Please don't judge me though, until you at least give it a try.

From Greece with love

On a recent trip to NYC, I stopped at a Sephora on Fifth Avenue with my 10 year old daughter, because she was desperate for a lip gloss. As we hunted around dabbing color samples all over our hands, I discovered a new gloss, by a new brand (to me), and it was love at first sight.

This lipgloss has absolutely everything going for it. The brand makes only all natural products, it comes in a ton of lovely shades, it feels and tastes amazing (not at all sticky, and yes, it is splendidly yummy), and finally it stays on longer than most gloss.

Korres is sold exclusively in North America at Sephora. They are a proud Greek company that uses plants grown in Greece, and they manufacture all their products there too. Good for them!

The special treat for me is that each time I put it on it reminds me of my dear Greek friend Helen, who I miss because she died too young, and while she was alive was the embodiment of all things feminine. She taught me valuable things in the short time we shared. I dream she would be proud of my choice, and it makes me smile. 

I hope you find your own reason to smile!

My silly little stapler

Eco friendly things are a cool idea, and they only become a cool reality if they work even better than the standard thing.

That must have been a bit confusing!...

I love my silly little eco friendly stapler, and I absolutely know you will too.

It doesn't use staples, it makes a hole and a slash in your paper, and somehow magically twists 2 or 3 pieces of paper through the hole and slice it made, and joins them together. Totally ingenious! It's kinda magic truthfully. You never have to buy another staple again. Crazy cool.

It comes in a selection of fashion colors, and costs a mere $6.99 at Chapters (in store and on-line), and I'm sure a bunch of other retailers carry it as well. The only minor down side is it only "staples" a maximum of 3 papers together at a time. For everyday home use, I don't believe this is a biggie.

I dream of a day when all staplers will want to be just like this little wonder!

Wipe it all away

I'm a tryer. I think that is probably the best way to describe what I do each and every day. I'm always searching for the best of everything for myself and my family. I invest a substantial amount of time researching products before I try them, and then I try many (probably way too many). With the obscene number of products out there, I'm convinced that in the sea of too many, I'll manage to find the rare gem. When I finally make a worthwhile discovery, well, I can't help but share ....

Facial cleansers are a good example of a category I have a very extensive and diverse experience with. As I reflect, I believe I have honestly tried at least one facial cleanser from every major high-end and regular cosmetic brand on the market. Wow, even I'm a bit shocked... Kinda scary...

Out of my vast experience I can confidently suggest I have found one of the best facial cleansers in existence. As with all cosmetics, skin types and needs vary, obviously I realize there is no universally ideal product. I wear a full face of make-up on a daily basis, my skin tends to be oily and prone to break outs, though it can easily get dry and itchy with any harsh cleansers. Also, I'm a busy person (aren't we all), and have no patience whatsoever for a complicated grooming routine.

Nuxe cleansing milk with 3 roses is an exceptionally gentle, yet effective cleansing milk. It removes all of my make-up without leaving any residue, leaves my skin feeling clean and soft, and smells heavenly. Yes, smell is always wildly important to me, and because there are several plant ingredients, it makes for a uniquely yummy combination (it is laced with hazelnut oil and orange blossom). Every time I use it, it makes me happy because I FINALLY feel I have found the perfect cleanser. Truly perfect.

They suggest you use a cotton ball to wipe away all the make-up and grime on your face, and rinse with water at the end. While this technique may work, I find it altogether too complicated for my simple routine. Who on earth has time to clean their face using cotton balls!? I put a small glob of the cleanser in my hand (about nickel sized), rub it all over my dry face including the eye area (it doesn't irritate my eyes in the least), and then I wash everything off. It doesn't foam because it is a cleansing milk, but it sure does it's job. Presto magico, done!

Also important, Nuxe is an all natural and eco-conscious company. Their name is derived from the combination of Nature and Luxe (Luxury in French) = Nuxe. Go to their website for the full scoop www.nuxe.com

I love, love, love things that are this simple and work this well. Don't we all?

Yasmin Yoga

I had a hard time deciding what label to put this post under. Most people would likely consider yoga as something you do for your body. However, while it can certainly provide undeniable benefits for your body, it is intended to nurture the soul, and that is absolutely what I feel it does.

There are many varied yoga disciplines, and some exploration is probably a good idea in order to discover the one that best speaks to you and your needs.

I love yoga. I love the tradition and theory behind it, and the deep mind body soul connection it fosters. I do also like to sweat, and therefore I most enjoy "power yoga", specifically Ashtanga. I would recommend you try to clear your mind of all your preconceived notions of what yoga is and isn't, and start experimenting.

One of the easiest ways to experiment, is in the privacy of your own home. All you need to start is a mat (any yoga mat will do), and I would recommend this CD:
Core Strength Power Yoga, by Yasmin F. Gow

You read right, I'm recommending a CD, not a DVD. Why? Because who really enjoys craning their neck to watch a TV screen while they are trying to get into a pose? Not me. There are very clear photos of the poses that you can peak at before you begin, and then while you are practicing her explanations are so clear and precise, that you know exactly what she is asking you to do. As an added bonus the music on the CD is glorious. The second bonus is that Yasmin is a Montrealer, and if you do connect with her style of yoga, you can go to her website and find yourself a class www.yasminyoga.com

You can buy her CD at Lululemon stores, on-line at www.practicebliss.com
and probably at her studio on the West Island, OmWest www.westislandyoga.com

If you know you are a DVD person, she also has a yoga DVD.

Namaste.

UPDATE: I just got news from Yasmin, and it turns out she is also teaching at Victoria Park, on Victoria in Westmount. You don't have to be a member to go, and she teaches Tuesday and Saturday mornings, and Thursday early evening. For full details browse through at: www.vicpark.com Personally, I can't wait to go! The Tuesday morning class is an Ashtanga class (yipeee!).

J.K. Rowling is brilliant

For those of you who know me, you already know how I feel about Jo (as her friends call her), and can imagine how hard it was for me to resist the temptation of making my very first post about her. Alas, I could not hold off any longer...

Yes, she wrote Harry Potter, which in my opinion is clearly destined to become a classic (and really already is), she is also an interestingly intelligent individual. For some insight into what I'm talking about I would recommend reading her Harvard commencement speech (seriously Bee-rilliant!).

Links to either the Harvard magazine print version, or the youtube video version:
http://harvardmagazine.com/2008/06/the-fringe-benefits-failure-the-importance-imagination
http://youtu.be/nkREt4ZB-ck

A fun added note, in case you haven't heard, she is finally publishing her books in e-book format (woohoo!). If you haven't read the Harry Potter series (yes, I'm blogging to adults), you are missing something incredible, and this will be your chance to understand what the rest of the world is raving about on your Kindle or iPad. If you have read it, you'll probably want to reread it. Look on her new website to get the full scoop, www.pottermore.com and this is why: there will be some new content (OMG level of amazing!!!).

Some of the many reasons I love the Harry Potter series, are the same ones East of Eden (by John Steinbeck) is my favorite novel of all time. These books contain good and evil, compassion and treachery, complicated characters and difficult choices, all the while managing to keep us hooked with a compelling plot. Messy like real life, and just as uniquely breathtaking. That's just how I feel. Enjoy!

Go Barefoot

I love a great product with an even better story to go along with it.

Barefoot wines come in several different varieties, are tasty, and very affordable ($10/bottle in Canada, less in the US). What elevates them to super cool is that they are a wine that gives back. Let me explain. They do not advertise, rather they donate their products to local charity events in order to promote them. It is one of those win win situations. The charity gets support via the fundraiser, and Barefoot gets to showcase their fantastic product. How smart is that?

Check out their website for the full background story, it is interesting www.barefootwine.com

I love a company that makes a quality product for regular people (like me).
Party on!

Tom's toothpaste

Yup, I'm even passionate about toothpaste.

This is how I see it; all kinds of chemicals are bad for us, no matter how hard we try we surely always swallow some toothpaste while we are brushing, and even if we don't swallow any, the oral mucosa (the lining of our mouth) has an uncanny ability to absorb all kinds of things very effectively. Therefore, ask yourself, do you really want the chemicals in your toothpaste absorbed inside your body? I know I don't.

This is where Tom's of Maine toothpaste comes in. While I try very hard to use as many all natural products as possible, too often I don't find them to be that great. Tom's toothpaste is one of the notable exceptions, and is super duper amazing! It comes in different flavors that all taste yum (for toothpaste), it has a pleasant texture, and it cleans exceptionally well. What more can you ask for? Personally, I still believe in the benefits of fluoride, so I use a fluoride containing one. It is controversial though, and if you prefer to go all out granola, they make fluoride free versions as well.

Available in pharmacies, health food stores and on-line at www.well.ca (a Canadian on-line pharmacy I wrote about in a previous post), approximately $6 per tube.

Next time you are brushing your teeth, read the claims and ingredients on your regular toothpaste, and ask yourself if you really want that paste in your body.
Then, make the natural choice.

Just a suggestion, after all there are many things that are bad for us we have no control over...

A teeny update... (04/2012). I used to suffer from regular canker sores, and since I switched to Tom's all natural toothpaste, not a single one! Incredible!!! I have read there are some ingredients in regular toothpastes that cause cankers in many people, I guess I am one of them. If you are a sufferer, it may not work, but it it might. You really have nothing to lose by trying :)

Sense and Sensibility - the screenplay

As time goes on, for those of you who don't already know me, you will discover I am passionate about books, specifically great books.

Sense and Sensibility (by Jane Austen) is one of those forever fantastic kind of classics, but I do recognize that some people these days have difficulty getting into books from that era. Not because they aren't magnificent stories, rather (I think) because they are written very differently from books today.

This is where Sense and Sensibility the Screenplay and Diaries by Emma Thompson comes in. This is the screenplay adaptation of the Jane Austen classic. It is absolutely true to the original, gives you a unique glimpse into what a real screenplay looks like (and this one happens to have won an Academy Award no less), and the diary portion is added morsels from Emma Thompson whose rapier wit makes the entire reading experience that much more enjoyable.

I don't know if many bookstores would still carry this, as it is not new. However, I did find it available on-line at both Chapters www.chapter.indigo.ca and Amazon www.amazon.ca for approximately $16 for the paperback version. In the US it is also available on-line with Amazon as well as Banes and Noble.

Once you are finished the book I'm sure you'll want to watch the movie which stars Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet and Hugh Grant. 

It is magical!

Yikes, no time to wash my greasy dirty hair!

Problem solved.

If you have never heard of or tried dry shampoo, it is time you were initiated. For years now I have been using Klorane Dry Shampoo when I find myself in this predicament, and it works like a charm! It is simple and quick to use, smells nice, and definitely makes my hair look and feel clean for one more day. A life saver!

 

It comes in the traditional aerosol format, and the relatively new eco-friendly non-aerosol format. It costs about $18 a bottle, but lasts forever. These days most pharmacies carry it. I find it is without question the best dry shampoo ever.

Anything that saves me time when I don't have any, is a winner for me!

Mandy's - chew on this...

Anyone who lives in the Westmount/NDG area of Montreal is probably familiar with this fabulous salad place. If you aren't, let me help you get acquainted. It is a "secret" little hole in the wall at the back of a store called Mimi & Coco on Sherbrooke close to Claremont (4927 Sherbrooke St. West, in Westmount). There are no signs in front to tell you it's there, so just walk into Mimi & Coco, and walk to the back. It is a tiny but mighty operation, churning out fresh salad by the truck-load daily to Westmount women and local students alike (and me). There is also one on Laurier (201 Laurier Ave.) that is considerably more spacious, but not walking distance from my house.

The salads are absolutely scrumptious! If you are curious about their offerings check out the on-line menu at Mandy's Express www.mandysxp.com (affiliated with the Mandy's 'restaurants', that delivers). The outlets don't have exactly the same things as the delivery place, but close enough. They cost approximately $10 per salad, and this is where my story begins...

While many have savored these delectable creations, I always have to hold in a chuckle when I see those pin thin Westmount women in their work-out gear scoffing down one of these salads in its entirety. Don't get me wrong, these women for the most part look fantastic, and they work hard at it I'm sure, so I feel obliged to share this with them, and all of you. Sitting in those recyclable plastic packages the salads look innocently nice and compact, however they are in fact GINORMOUS! Seriously, take one home, and empty it out onto a plate (or two). You will be shocked to discover that your healthy little lunch salad is in fact a generous portion for two. Mandy's does know this, and once you discover it, they will graciously divide the salad into two separate containers for you and your friend to share. The only down side is you have to agree on the same salad.

My favorites are the Fave (aka. the Westmount, but known as the Fave at the Westmount location), the Raegan-Danielle, and the Waldorf (which I get with peanuts instead of walnuts because my husband is nut allergic, and it still tastes yummy). They tend to be heavy handed with the dressing, I would recommend asking for 'lightly dressed' or dressing on the side.

They accept the Mummies List card (10% discount). 

This is already a long-ish post, so go to www.mummieslist.com for more information.

Visit Paris, never leave Montreal

J'adore Paris, but for obvious reasons I don't exactly get there as often as I'd like.

Lucky for me, I have discovered a teensy corner of Montreal that embodies Paris perfectly, and when I'm there voila I genuinely feel as though I'm on vacation. For years, whenever I feel the need for a hit of Paris, I go eat at a restaurant called L'Express, and browse/shop through two little stores just a few doors away, Arthur Quentin and Bleu Nuit.

Arthur Quentin is essentially a housewares store kicked up a notch with true Parisian flare. It is divided into three sections; one for china, glassware and fine linens, the middle one for kitchenwares, and the third for other areas of the home as well as personal things like purses, scarves and stationary. All of the sales people there speak French with a Parisian accent, which helps with the reverie. The prices run the gamut, with much of the fare being affordable, alongside other high end items.

Arthur Quentin, 3960 St. Denis. Look on-line to get a good idea of what it looks like inside the store, and the items they sell, but nothing beats going. www.arthurquentin.com

Across the street, and on the same side as L'Express, you'll find Bleu Nuit at 3913 St. Denis. Bleu Nuit is a bed and bath store. They sell high end linens, towels, and sleep ware. There aren't many affordable items here (there are some soaps and such), but oh la-la everything is exceptionally gorgeous, and worth experiencing even if only at arm's length.

Finally, la piece de resistance, L'Express is at 3927 St. Denis. There is no sign easily visible from the street, as the name is written out in a mosaic on the walkway in front. This place is a Montreal institution, although decidedly Parisian. The menu hardly changes, and the throngs of devoted regulars clearly like it that way (reservations are a good idea). This place has such an incredibly authentic Parisian bistro ambience, you'll swear you have been transported there. The service is respectful, though not warm, and the food is magnificently flavorful, while the presentation is decidedly understated, all very Parisian. The wine list is mainly private import from what I understand, therefore unless you are a wine connoisseur of regional French wines, you will be lost. I highly recommend asking your server to choose wine for you by the glass with each course (they have a large selection). My husband and I do this every time we go, either alone or with friends, and it has never failed us. I also feel that they secretly enjoy you bowing to their expertise, and therefore maybe you get slightly more attentive service, maybe not. If you are celebrating something special, you may wish to indulge in Kir Royale (a very French drink, which is champagne with a bit of fruit flavored liqueur at the bottom, they use Laurent Perrier Champagne, exceptionally exquisite). It is an experience! Overall things are reasonably priced with entrees going for between $20-30.

Bon voyage!

Soul Pancake

What on earth is that? Well, I'm glad you asked, let me attempt to explain. It is a kick-ass, get your brain and creative juices flowing workbook for people posing as grown-ups. There - I think the authors would approve of my description. It is all that and more. It is a book unlike anything I have seen before. It is full of thought provoking questions for you to chew on (in fact the subtitle is "chew on life's big questions"), while also being jam packed with all kinds of incredibly interesting bits of information relevant to life and the world around us.

Available all over the place (as most books are), including on-line at Chapters www.chapters.indigo.ca or Amazon www.amazon.ca . Approximately $16. They also have their own website where you can get a better idea of what they are about www.soulpancake.com

If you are someone who has difficulty thinking outside the box, this book will take you there, and if you are someone who already does, this book will speak to you like no other. Come on, give it a try, I dare you!

Love list

At the bottom of my blog (if you scroll all the way down), I have added lists of books and movies I love. I chose to do it this way because I thought people would get bored of reading individual posts about why I love each of these books and movies. If on the other hand you are wondering why I picked a specific title, just ask and I'd be pleased to elaborate.

Have a lovely day!

Subtle sparkle

This post is about a product I discovered this summer, and fell head over heels in love with instantly. I have a sneaky suspicion you might too.

It is a dry body oil that gives your skin just the perfect subtle shimmer because it has golden sparkle in it. Did I mention not only does it look magnificent, it smells like everything good I remember about summer? It is made by a French company called Nuxe, and it is called Huile Prodigieuse Or (there is just a plain Huile Progigieuse as well, but I would recommend the Or, which is the one with gold sparkle in it). I know, even as I write this down I worry it sounds tacky, but trust me it really isn't. It is divine!

Given it is a bit of an indulgence ($40), I would not recommend using it as your only skin moisturizer. Rather I would recommend first using a plain dry body oil like Neutrogena's Sesame Body Oil (which is sublime in and of itself), and then you layer the Huile Prodigieuse Or on the areas of your skin where you want that extra spectacular shine. You can use it in the summer, you can use it when you go out, and they say you can even use it in your hair (I haven't tried that yet, but I will).

BTW, I said the Neutrogena Body Oil was plain, and it is, but it is also the world's best body oil. It is inexpensive ($12), it absorbs beautifully, and leaves your skin silky smooth without any greasiness.

You can buy both at many pharmacies (my local Pharmaprix carries both), and Sephora also carries the Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Or. Every place I have seen it has a tester bottle, so even if you are unsure, I would highly recommend you make your way to the bottle nearest to you, rub a couple of decadent drops on your arm, and then bring it to your nose for a little whiff. You will never again be the same. 

Give them a try, you'll feel like a movie star, only better because you will still be you!

Chocolate - need I say more?

There is part of me that feels anyone who wholeheartedly dislikes chocolate is a teeny bit defective, like a missing gene or something... Just saying...

I on the other hand ADORE chocolate, in a fanatical way. Seriously, I can think of chocolate food I could eat for every meal of the day, or instead of any meal. It is just that good.

Now you're probably saying, if only it was actually good for you. Well, while it may not be a bona fide health food, I do believe it has some genuine benefits. Chocolate contains antioxidants that are good for you (the darker the chocolate, the more antioxidants it has), and then there is the obvious emotional boost many get from savoring it. Personally, I eat chocolate like a vitamin. I buy the best chocolate I can, and I take a little piece each and every day, and it feels good!

Now the important part... Did you know that the kind of chocolate you eat matters BIG time? Not just because not all chocolate tastes as good as the other one, but because much of the world's chocolate is produced using cocoa harvested by child slaves. Yes, not just regularly terrible child labor, rather children that have been kidnapped from their families or sold, and forced into brutal slavery in order to survive. Who knew? Now you do. Apparently most of the world's biggest chocolate manufacturers also know, and yet continue to buy cocoa directly and indirectly from slave farming. It is time for consumers to make the difference through their chosen purchases. This is why it is very important to buy fair trade chocolate. Fair trade means that the farmers have been fairly compensated for their crop, and the product definitely doesn't come from slavery. Supporting slavery is super scary.

My favorite fair trade chocolate is Camino. This is scrumptiously fantastic chocolate, that comes in many different strengths and flavor combinations. The added bonus is it is also organic! My favorite is the 55% dark chocolate.

You can find it all over the place, including regular supermarkets like Metro, in the organic section. If you want to look into other fair trade products, go buy it at a store called Dix Milles Villages (there are several in the city, on Monkland, Pointe Claire Village, etc), www.tenthousandvillages.ca

Enjoy!
Remember to share.

WooHoo!

The blog has made it to over 100 page views. I have absolutely no idea whether that means anything or not, however I have decided over 100 for most things feels like a milestone, and a legitimate reason to celebrate, so bring it on!

Thanks for checking things out.

L8R :)