Keep Warm

2012-02-29T03:45:00.000-06:00

"The soul forms its own horizons; your soul is darkened, and consequently the sky of the future appears stormy and unpromising."
- The Count of Monte Cristo

Alexandre Dumas was a wise man... Positivity is important.

Play

2012-02-28T03:31:00.000-06:00

As I listened to the Melbourne rain, the trams rumble by and my flatmates chatter in French and Italian, I looked back on the beginning of this blog. I used to be funny. I used to be candid. I used to be more me. And maybe I feel something has changed because I'm in a different physical place. Or maybe because every time I open Keep Warm and notice that I've lost a follower my heart gets a little crushed. I remember when I first started this blog I didn't really care and could barely hope that anyone would want to read it. It was a way for me to do something creative everyday: photos, writing, remembering. It was meant to help me keep up with my life and have something to look back on. Then I started to get followers and maybe with that change I started writing more for them (for you?) than for myself. I haven't been posting lately because I'm not wearing anything other than a work uniform. And I'm not doing anything other than working. And I was pretty sure that no one would want to read anything that I say. Maybe I could let go a bit and write what I want and live life with a bit more play in it.

This is where I work. Elvis and Marilyn are everywhere.
Via

Today a customer asked me who Marilyn Monroe was. Like if she was a dancer or a singer or what. And if she was still alive. I think he was serious. All I could really do was say "umm, an actress? an icon?" He then told me that even though Elvis was a bit taller than him it was ok because he had more muscles and he could do the dance moves. It wasn't really a conversation that I wanted to engage in. I backed away in search of another customer I could bring food to. Or anything really.

What's in a name?

2012-02-27T02:22:00.002-06:00

When I was young some family friends wanted to call me Dani. My Dad gave an adamant no to that idea. He liked my full, feminine name. When I was about 12 and was going through that stage of trying to assert my independence and wishing to shape who I was becoming I wanted to change my name to Danie because it was cute and strong and maybe, it could be me. As most nicknames that you create for yourself, it didn't stick. Consequently, I never really had any nicknames until I was in late high school and university. I've pretty much always been just Danielle in most circles.

So when one group of friends started calling me Sidekick D and another Dilly, I was pretty esctatic! I was like everyone else! I had a nickname! In England people called me Daniellabella. A friend even booked a flight under the name Daniella because he thought that was my name!

Now here I am in Australia and working as a waitress. To them, I am Dani. I've worked there for about a month and a half and I'm just now getting used to being called that. I've never associated myself with that name so I had to train myself to respond. It's still strange to hear myself answering the phone by my new name.

The website Kabalarian Philosophy believes that your name can define your personality. I plugged in both of my current options to see...

Your name, Danielle, gives you a friendly, poised, affectionate nature with a quick, discerning mind.
You enjoy working with and organizing the efforts of others, but sometimes, a lack of confidence, indecisiveness, and even idleness can spoil your initiatives.
However, you depend upon others for support and encouragement.
Appreciating quality and knowing the value of money, you desire to be financially successful and to enjoy life's comforts.
You want to make money in easier ways than through arduous work.
While the name Danielle creates the urge to organize and work with others, we point out that it causes an over-emphasis on material things that frustrates higher humanitarian qualities.

Your first name, Dani, creates an independent, determined, and persevering nature.

You desire to work on your own or at least where you are making your own decisions.

You enjoy working with your hands and can be resourceful and inventive along practical lines.

Being much focused on your pursuits, at times you overlook the personal considerations and attentions that create understanding and companionship with others.

This name causes you to suffer with self-consciousness in new situations and an inability to be diplomatic when situations warrant.

You are loyal in friendships and express candidly.

You enjoy outdoors activities with a few close friends.

Although the name Dani creates the urge to be creative and original, we emphasize that it causes a blunt expression that alienates others.

I'm not sure which one is more accurate. I'm not sure if I am a Dani in my heart, but that's my name for the moment.

Sunday Shoes: Steve Madden Bow Heels

2012-02-26T17:23:00.000-06:00

As I was cleaning out my apartment I discovered I have a rather lot of shoes. Miss Sal from Already Pretty has a series called Sunday Shoes. I've decided to share them to remind myself why I love them, the stories behind them and as an archive of the ones I've had to say goodbye to.

Steve Madden

These shoes have the cutest bow on the side... right on top of an unexpected little peephole!

Sunday Shoes: New Look Wedges

2012-02-19T17:20:00.000-06:00

New Look, Norwich, England

In the winter of 2011 I went to England in hopes that it would cheer up a long and doldrummy winter. I bought these shoes on a day out with my friend, her soon to be sister in law, and a bunch of bridesmaids. The best part of these shoes? Inside they say "Your feet look gorgeous!"

Emerald Peacock

2012-02-14T06:22:00.000-06:00

I might have done something bad...

Something shoe-related...

But after drooling over these babies for ages and having a dream about them what was a girl supposed to do?

Hello my pretties!

Waiting for the tram

I feel more like myself in this outfit and these shoes than I do most days. Since I am waitressing at an American diner I mostly wear an unflattering shirt and some variation of black bottoms. And since I only get 1 day off a week I don't wear much else. I changed into this after my shift today to wear my shoes to drink a glass of wine on a patio.

top: Target

tank: Big W

shorts: Ricki's

SHOES: Wittner Vilette

necklace: gift

Today I am thankful for my job. I don't have a lot of money but this job gave me the opportunity to HAVE THESE SHOES!!!

Facets of Personality

2012-02-10T04:52:00.002-06:00

I was at a party with people I don't know very well. One guy started talking about facets of personality. He wanted to know what were 5 facets that informed every decision you make, that are the backbone of who you are. At the time I couldn't really think of anything but the question really stuck with me.

1) Compassion - I do want to help people. I feel like that might be part of my purpose. To help people and make their day brighter brings me joy. That is a good day. If I can get paid for it - even better

2) Recognition / Respect

I want to be noticed and ideally adored :) (let's be honest). I want people to recognize if I'm doing a good job. I want them to tell me because I'm never really sure. I don't want to fade into the background. My biggest fear is being forgotten. I'd like to be the kind of person that does things because they are right and never want to be known for them. But I'm not. I don't want to be forgotten.

3) Searching

A few years ago I might have said discontented but I want to put that in a more positive light. I'm always looking for something more. To learn more about the world, about myself, about becoming healthier, more whole, a journey of self-growth. I hope to be in a state of Santosha but that's a struggle in itself. In my Psychology of Yoga class in University Santosha was described as contentment with where you are while still looking for something more whole, better, real in the future.

4) Community

I want to feel a sense of belonging and, when I'm at my best, I'm able to create community. I feel like I've been a tying in factor for friends, acquaintances. I want that sense of family with friends. I want to know that everyone I love knows how special they are. I want to make people feel like they belong. I want to feel like I belong. I miss my family and friends who I feel totally at ease with.

5) Silliness / Humour

Nearly everything can be seen as funny. Life is more fun when you embrace silliness rather than being stressed about trying to fit into a proper social structure. Humour can diffuse a tense situation. And because I'm usually ok with looking like an idiot or playing the fool, I'm not so worried about that kind of ego. I like being silly. It's fun. And it's better when people underestimate you.

Chill out

2012-02-07T00:00:00.002-06:00

Days off should be spent renewing your soul.

Reading a book by the river (complete with fruit candies)

And a delicious lunch accompanied by a glass of cold wine

And, if we're being honest, probably a nap...

Sunday Shoes: Penny Loves Kenny "Madison"

2012-02-05T17:13:00.000-06:00

Penny Loves Kenny "Madison"

These gold and silver disco shoes are perfect for going out dancing!

Feeling Exposed

2012-02-03T08:27:00.000-06:00

A while ago I was talking about my difficulty finding my groove in terms of clothing in Melbourne. The always delightful, insightful Chelsea left this comment:

I think I might fall apart a bit if I moved somewhere with drastically different weather, since I've grown SO ACCUSTOMED to dressing for cooler temps year round. Layers, layers, layers. I went to Hawaii on vacation a few years ago, and just melted into a puddle of self-consciousness, though I'd felt empowered and like a body image warrior before I left. But leaving behind my sweaters and tights and leggings left me feeling so exposed and vulnerable! I wasn't able to overcome the icky feelings while on the trip, and they lasted through when I got home, but I think if I went again now I'd be better prepared mentally to tell myself that I'm feeling exposed because I am literally exposing more of my body, and allow myself space and time to adjust to that and get my body embracing groove back. So, thanks for posting about this topic, because it really resonates!

As always, she hit the nail on the head. I did feel pretty awesome about how I looked and how I clothed myself back in Canada, even though my body wasn't in it's ideal state. Then I arrived here and didn't know what to do. I looked wrong. I felt wrong. Nothing I brought suited the weather and nothing in the shops suited my style or my body shape or my budget. As soon as I read the bit about feeling exposed because I was exposed I was like "Well! Of course! Silly Dilly!"

The summery dresses I brought are much too short for me to feel comfortable with. Leggings are too hot but without them I feel like I'm all thighs. And sometimes, I am (this is a very windy city!). I want to feel comfortable in my skin and it appears that a higher percentage than I wish of that is based on how I feel in my clothes (The Gentleman Caller has taken to calling his clothes that he wears out to work his "armour").

The solution? Cycle Bloomers.

I bought these from American Apparel (boo hiss) even though I don't support anything about that store. I had been looking for something like this for ages. They are basically stretchy cycle-type shorts with lacy edges. Now I feel like I can wear my shorter dresses without fear of sneaky wind and flashing the neighbourhood and the dreaded chub rub (TMI? What? It's a thing!). And the lace even looks pretty cute when it pokes out the bottom of my dresses. This invention has made me more confident about wearing the clothes that I have to wear for the weather.

Propping my rounded edge camera on the headboard of my bed doesn't make for excellent photos. Oh well.

dress: Big W, $15

bloomers: Americal Apparel

thongs: Havianans

Today I am thankful for readers who leave amazing comments that make me think about how I'm relating to my clothes, to my surroundings.

Australia Day!

2012-02-02T00:21:00.000-06:00

January 26 was our first Australia Day.

Via

Knowing what I know of Australians in general I knew that it wouldn't be like Canada Day with my family. I knew that it would involve a few more beers and maybe less onion rings.

The Gentleman and I had a very leisurely morning of swimming in the pool and wandering through South Melbourne in search of breakfast.

I wanted to wear something that represented the Australia flag without being over the top Bogan by wearing just an Australian flag bikini top and booty shorts.

dress: H&M

belt: from Target dress

leggings: Target

cardi: Ricki's

thongs: Havianas

necklace: tiny shop on coast of England

We then took a long train ride out to a new friend's housewarming / Australia Day BBQ. Naturally we brought lamb because we didn't want to be unAustralian. I was a bit nervous because we didn't really know anyone there very well at all. But as soon as we walked in we were welcomed by a group of people I had met in December. We planned on only staying for a few hours but had such a good time we stayed significantly longer. Which is why these pictures were taken after midnight, outside a McDonald's.

Today I am thankful for bravery. It's scary as an introvert to make an effort to socialize with people I don't know. I'm happy that we went and made friends.

Sunday Shoes: Embroidered Nine West

2012-01-29T17:09:00.000-06:00

Embroidered Nine West, Minneapolis

About 6 years ago we drove 14 hours to have a few days holiday in Minneapolis. I found these gorgeous shoes at an outlet mall...

The world is (a new) flat

2012-01-29T04:14:00.000-06:00

Since we arrived we had been staying with our very generous friends. At the beginning of January we found ourselves a new flat. After looking at a few that were extremely tiny and hideously dirty we settled on this one:

The outside. It's pretty tall.

It's close to trams, across from the Botanical Gardens, near-ish to shops.

The view from the bedroom window. The bedroom is a constant tip so no pictures of that.

We share with 4 other people: 2 French, 2 Italian. It's not as crowded as you might think.

Living room

Best part? WE HAVE A POOL! And given that everyday in the last couple of weeks has been above 30 degrees, this is the best possible news (and deciding factor)

Gym, pool & tennis court

Also, I got a job. I'm working as a waitress at an American themed diner. It's pretty fun and funny. It's busy and hot. I'm learning how to make a spicy dipping sauce called Po'man's Cocaine. It got on my hand and then on my face and, dude, it burns.

Yesterday between my lunch and dinner shifts I fell asleep on a park bench like a hobo. It was surprisingly comfortable.

Next door's pool (they have a hot tub. We are jealous)

So this is the situation for the next few months. Seems like a good way to spend the summer.

Today I'm thankful for good roommates, a job, good shoes, air conditioning and a pool.

Delights

2012-01-24T22:28:00.003-06:00

I have discovered 2 Australian delights:

The yo-yo or sometimes called a melting moment. Either way, delicious:

And a choc-top. You get these at movie theatres and they are delicious. Chocolate covered ice cream is no new thing but these are already prepared and in a strange little bag! Weird but fabulous!

Sunday Shoes: Blue Red or Dead "Maxa"

2012-01-22T17:05:00.000-06:00

Red or Dead "Maxa" from ebay

I have a feeling that these were a floor model in a store. They are not exactly the same colour, perhaps from exposure to the sun. My philosophy is that if I walk really fast no one will notice...

Resolutions

2012-01-20T07:42:00.000-06:00

I'm behind on thinking about New Year's resolutions. I'm about 19 or 20 days behind (depending, of course, on when Blogger publishes this. My computer time is set to Melbourne time but I think that Blogger is on some other time... very confusing and sometimes surprising). I don't really mind being behind because really isn't every day a fresh start to try again where we fell behind earlier?

Last year I was really trying to live with a few words in my head. I was given these words by a friend who was looking into my numerology. She said that I would have a lovely life but especially if I could learn about Perseverance, Patience, and Forgiveness. These are concepts I'm still trying to work on. I want to have a fabulous life, full of energy and celebration. But much of the time I am passive and tired. I need to remember that things are on their way but sometimes I have to wait. That if things don't come as easily as they have in the past I have to keep trying in a different way. I have to remember that without forgiveness of people, situations and myself I have the potential to get stuck and never move forward.

This year I want to add the word Enjoy. I want to live In Joy. These past few months have been an enormous struggle. More than I ever thought they would be. You see, for the most part I have been very, very blessed. Things tend to come along when I need them, when I'm ready. Not having things go my way when we arrived Australia was a bit of a shock. I wasn't prepared for endless rejection and the close-mindedness of employers. I wasn't prepared to feel like a failure or to feel like the things that make me special (confidence, bubbliness, positivity, sparkle) were disappearing day by day. It was hard. It has been hard. And in that time I wasn't enjoying life the way that I want to. This is my life. This is it. This is all that I have. Shouldn't this moment be the very best that it can be? Even if it's rather crap? Shouldn't I take a risk to be happy? I feel like I've wasted time here. Like I wasn't appreciating the flowers, the smell of the gum trees, the funny things that people say with an accent, the constant friendship, the love that my Gentleman and I share. I just let it rush by me, detached, only paying attention to my struggles and tears. That is not the way to live life.

From now on I want to make an effort to live In Joy. Because it is an effort for me, positivity doesn't come naturally. It's something that I've had to teach myself when I realized that they world believes in you so much more when you believe in it.

So that's it. Any thoughts or tips? Any resolutions that you've been working on or thinking about? Any plans to make your life the most "you"? I love thinking and talking about journeys of spiritual growth. I miss my Canadian friends for those kinds of conversations so if anyone wants to chat about making our world a bit better you could email me at keepwarmblog@gmail.com. Or you could start talking to your friends, that would make at least one small corner of this big old world a bit brighter.

Take care of your heart, cherish your moments and keep your spirit warm...

New Year's Day

2012-01-19T07:21:00.000-06:00

New Year's Day was just as hot as ever. When it's this hot I just decided to forgo makeup as it would melt off my face in a matter of minutes. We walked to the marina at Glenelg beach and then headed into the city to see Happy Feet 2 in the bliss of air conditioning.

dress: H&M

sandals: Havianas

hat: Christmas gift

I'm either squinting from the sun or giving A LOOK to the Gentleman Caller. Who can tell?

Today I am thankful for underwear. Yes, it's true. You see, it was too hot to wear leggings under this rather short dress. And it was, at times, windy. Thank you underoos for letting my bottom be partially covered when the wind decided to expose me!

NYE

2012-01-18T18:48:00.000-06:00

On New Year's Eve morning we packed up our bush camp before 8am because it was meant to get to 42 degrees (107 F). As one of our friends said it was "murderously hot". We returned to Adelaide, to our hostel on the beach. We immediately had to lie down for a rest under a fan with a cold cider. I'm not used to this kind of heat. I have no idea how anyone manages to get any work done, my brain and body are so sluggish!

Our Australian New Year's Eve was very chilled out. We had no desire to party like mad or go drinking with strangers. When too much is made of NYE it is so easy for it to become a big disappointment. We went for dinner, went to the hostel bar and played cards, had a lie down.

We wandered down to the beach in time to catch the children's fireworks. I've never spent NYE anywhere but a place that you had to bundle up if you wanted to be outside for fireworks. But as you can see from the photos it was still super hot (and we're super tanned!)

I absolutely love fireworks and these were just great! After we went back to our room, watched some Top Gear and managed to stay up till midnight (barely!).

Today I am grateful for chilled out, non-pretentious good times.

Bush Camp

2012-01-17T07:25:00.000-06:00

Our Australian friends decided that we needed the experience of bush camping. We loaded up with tons of groceries and probably more beer and drove 2 hours out of Adelaide to the York Peninsula.

We set up camp beside a sand dune, making sure to have a sunshade and mosquito net in the centre of the tents.

Just over the sand dune was the sea! We were in a little bay so the water was about knee deep quite far out. We spent the days reading and drinking beer while sitting in the bathwater warm water of the ocean!

Today I am thankful for 2 days camping by the sea where it was murderously hot during the day and rather chilly at night. It was lovely to have nothing to do but read, nap, and bob about in the water.

Beach walks

2012-01-16T07:33:00.000-06:00

Adelaide was so hot while we were there our days consisted of breakfast, reading all afternoon in front of a fan and then when it cooled down by a degree or two we'd walk along the beach. Pretty fantastic life, really!

Coming from the landlocked Canadian Prairies, the endlessness of the ocean is facinating. And being on a beach is such a treat! I've never seen sand so fine!

Clearly, I'm a graceful ballerina in the sand!

Also never in my life have I had a sandal tan. Granted, the Gentleman Caller's is significantly more impressive but I'm still excited by mine!

Today I am thankful for being able to spend quiet times together with the Gentleman Caller. Reading, while trying to stay as cool as possible, in silence with nothing but a smile at each other now and again is a rare treat.

Sunday Shoes: Suede Flower

2012-01-15T17:00:00.000-06:00

Suede flower shoes, Le Chateau

I think that I've had these shoes for at least 10 years. They are still awesome.

Christmas in the Heat

2012-01-11T22:53:00.001-06:00

Having a hot Christmas is a very strange thing. I had to keep reminding myself that it was not August and that Santa was on his way. My mama sent me a Santa hat because I had to be my own this year. I'm pretty sure that she made it with love rather than measurements on a real head. It's a wee bit small!

See more pictures of Christmas day in Australia at Mind the Ramp!

Art?

2012-01-10T23:54:00.000-06:00

Apparently in Australia there is a number of BIG things. We have some in Canada too (a big moose, a big Ukrainian Easter egg). On Phillip Island we saw a big wave. On the way to Adelaide we saw the big lobster. It was pretty impressive if you're in to those kinds of things. And, oh, I am.

We had to run away while the Gentleman Caller bravely fought the baddie Lobster!

This little piggie had his choice of delights in the Rundle St Mall in Adelaide.

On Christmas Eve we wandered around downtown Adelaide, looking for something to eat, something to do or just the sight of another person. Turns out that the CBD is pretty much just for daytime business. There were a few strip clubs open and a few dance bars but that's not what either of us wanted to do on Christmas Eve. We found a lovely little Indian restaurant and had a delicious meal. We also found a VW Beetle that had been turned into a planter.

The other thing about Adelaide at Christmas was that it was HOT. Hot like I've never experienced. You know when you're baking something at a high temperature and you open the oven to check on it. There is that gush of hot air that nearly melts your mascara? That's what it was like opening the door of any non-airconditioned place. Even at night it was still close to 30 degrees... Mercy.

Today I am thankful for air-conditioning, overhead fans, cold drinks, ice, and the combination of all of those things!

Great Oceaning

2012-01-09T08:44:00.000-06:00

For Christmas we drove to Adelaide... the long way. We took an 8 hour journey and turned it into a 16 hour one. And why you ask?

So that we could go along the Great Ocean Road, of course!

Click here to see more pictures at Mind the Ramp!

top & skirt: Target

earrings: gift

sunnies: Ricki's

backdrop: Mother Nature

Today I am thankful for the beauty of the world. We are very lucky indeed. Don't forget to look around you and appreciate what is...

Sunday Shoes: Grey Bertie elastic heels

2012-01-08T13:55:00.000-06:00

Bertie elastic heels from ebay

When I found these grey heels on ebay I was thrilled. Every other Bertie shoe I've ever seen was rather expensive but these were perfect and cheap!

Signage

2012-01-07T02:23:00.001-06:00

Australian signs are pretty funny things.

Sometimes they are just about wildlife:

Sometimes they are overly dramatic warnings about how many ways that you could die:

Sometimes they are about absolutely mad things like a Hook Turn. This is where you turn right from the far left lane when the light changes yellow. It's so that cars don't hold up trams but really it just seems like a serious accident waiting to happen because pretty much anyone from any direction can hit you:

And sometimes they are just rude when said out loud and when one doesn't understand the context:

Beached As

2012-01-06T04:55:00.001-06:00

A lot of the last month or so has consisted of the Gentleman Caller and I saying to each other "Oooo Noooo!" and "You're heaps beached!"
This is why:

2011: Autumn

2012-01-05T04:55:00.002-06:00

AUTUMN

* After 2 and a half years of being blonde and a year of having a gorgeous pink streak I dyed my hair back to brown. It was a welcome change but there are definitely days when I miss my carefree blondy-ness and I always miss the pink!

* I finished up at a job that I was good at, respected at and that I liked very much. I said goodbye to some of the best co-workers in the history of ever.

* I cleaned out my wonderful mini-apartment that I loved, that brought me so much joy and peace and moved everything that I own into my parents garage.

* The Gentleman Caller and I had a farewell party and our family, friends and coworkers came. It was pretty amazing to have so many important people in the same room.

* The Gentleman Caller and I embarked on a 47 hour journey through Edmonton, Vancouver, Beijing, Shanghai, and finally to Melbourne, Australia.

* I celebrated my 30th birthday by having a lovely day out in Melbourne and then going to a prestigious, incredibly wonderful, amazing dinner at Movida

* I got to see my very first koala in real life. I still have such a hard time understanding that they are actual wild animals and are not just found in zoos.

* We went to the Melbourne Cup race day. We got all dressed up with fancy items on our heads. We drank champagne and ate quiche. And we bet money on horse racing. And sometimes won!

* I saw penguins! And they are the cutest thing!!

* We had a mini-break at Phillip Island. We saw beautiful beaches, amazing rock formations, and fairy penguins. We walked for many many many km and ate delicious eggs benedict.

* We were invited to a Bollywood party

* We went to Meredith Music Festival and saw a bunch of bands I didn't know. It was the first time I'd been camping in years.

All in all it was a good year. It was sometimes a struggle as life generally is but the important thing to remember is that every experience is one I am lucky to have and helps me to build my character and dreams for the future.

Here's hoping that 2012 will bring beauty, love, and enjoyment. Here's hoping that we can find a job and a place to live. And that there is magic in every moment...

2011: Summer

2012-01-04T17:20:00.000-06:00

SUMMER

* Every year on Canada Day / my grandpa's birthday we climb up a hill to a tiny church that overlooks the lake system and the valley

* We had a going away party for a bestie friend of mine that included sushi and dancing video games

* My family and I went to the musical Wicked and then spent the day together. It was a lovely treat!

* The Gentleman Caller and I went to another wedding with all his film school friends

* I went to Calgary to visit some of my very best friends to say goodbye for a while and meet the twin babies of a friend.

* I packed up all my shoes and realized that I may have a slight, but delightful, addiction!

2011: Spring

2012-01-03T22:05:00.000-06:00

SPRING

* This year we had spring floods to deal with. The lake in the centre of the city flooded and covered much of the walking path. The lake out at our cottage flooded taking many cottages and beach things with it.

* My sister and I said goodbye to our parents as they went to Spain. It was their first trip overseas by themselves (without us to guide them!) and we were happy for them but also so excited to see them when they returned!

* I went to Minot, ND with a couple of my favourite ladies to go to Victoria's Secret and have general absurd adventures

* I brought back some FourLokos from the US and tried them with the Gentleman Caller during our May Long weekend away

* Our trivia team collected its winnings of a keg party. There may have been dancing.

* My friend and I drove to Edmonton for the U2 concert. We were up and back within a day and a half but it was such fun!

* The Gentleman Caller and I went to our first wedding together. It was lovely.

* I finally finished making Date Night cards and a deck of cards featuring lovely little moments

2011: Winter

2012-01-03T07:35:00.000-06:00

Well, Christmas is over and New Years too. I trust that everyone had a safe and happy holiday. We went to Adelaide where we had no internet service except for a few hours one day... We read a lot. And went to movies solely for the air-conditioning. And swam in the ocean. All that will be expanded on at a later date.

Now it's time for a year in review even though am a couple days late. When I first started thinking about this year it seemed that nothing much really happened. Then I went through my pictures and discovered that it was a pretty busy year...

WINTER

* We went tobogganing, which I haven't done in years. I, predictably, got a face full of snow on my first go.

* We walked through a beautiful snow globe city to attend the annual beer festival, Festivale. We spent the evening sipping delightful and new types of beer.

* The Gentleman and I went to Edmonton on a mini-holiday. We went to the West Ed Mall and to the wave park and generally had a fun time.

* After a really hard and cold January I booked a spontaneous flight to England to visit the mother land. I spent a few days in London wandering around by myself, visiting where I used to live and a few days in the country catching up with friends.

* While I was in England I had the chance to submit my incredible swimming story to the Speedo campaign of Unforgettable Swims

image from unforgettableswims.speedo.com

Sunday Shoes: Dune Shoe Boots

2012-01-01T13:51:00.000-06:00

Dune shoe boots from Ebay

When I was living in England a friend introduced me to Dune shoes. I found these on ebay for super cheap. The best part about them? The inside is gold and it turns my feet gold! This might be a downfall for some but I love it!

Stripey Bottom

2011-12-27T06:19:00.000-06:00

I've been seeing bloggers and people on the street wearing tight mini skirts. I wanted to try it out but was also pretty sure that this trend isn't meant for women my size. Then I saw this skirt for $14 and thought 'why not? maybe? could I?'
If you follow me on the Twitter you may have seen that I was lamenting that I didn't have any bloggers who I could text to get a second opinion. I put it back on the shelf twice. I asked the Gentleman Caller, but since he's a dude he was just like "oooo mini skirt!" which, while appreciated, was not terribly helpful. So here it is. Still not totally sold. At some moments I felt sexy and confident and others I felt that really it is much too short.

cardigan: Ricki's

top: Big W

skirt: Target

leggings: Target but in USA

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

Today I am thankful for the wonderful friends that I have even though they are a million, kajillion, babillion kilometres away.

Sunday Shoes: Modern Vintage

2011-12-25T13:37:00.000-06:00

Modern Vintage from Gravity Pope, Edmonton

There was a sale at Gravity Pope that was something like buy one get one 1/2 off. I couldn't pass up these beauties. They are not comfortable at all. There is no platform so the heel is dangerously high. In the pictures the suede looks black but it's actually navy blue. They are so pretty that I can't bear to get rid of them!

Lacy games

2011-12-23T06:04:00.000-06:00

I'm finding dressing so difficult in Melbourne. My style is all about layers and with the hot and humid weather that's just not possible. So most of the time I'm sweating my face off and not feeling like myself.
This outfit actually felt like me and it wasn't too hot either!!

dress: Ricki's

top: Target

belt: H&M

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

Taking outfit photos is tricky without a tripod or a Gentleman...

Today I am thankful for finally getting something right.

Christmas Time

2011-12-20T18:35:00.002-06:00

My mom sent me some questions that everybody apparently wanted to know.

1) What do Christmas cards look like in Australia - do they have Coniferous trees on them? Snow?

Yes, there are some cards with snow and fir trees on them. There are also some with Santa surfing in board shorts. It seems strange to see snow on products relating to Christmas because it never happens here. I don't understand identifying a holiday with something that never happens on that holiday.

2) Do people put up Christmas trees? What kind?

Some must because I've seen exactly one store selling them. Why they don't just pick a local tree is beyond me. We don't have one in the apartment that I'm staying in because we are going away for Christmas. We'll see if the family we're going to see will have one. Somehow I think not. I really miss their smell...

3) Do people eat turkey & stuffing and such? I imagine no perogies or cabbage rolls. Is it truly shrimp on the barbi?

I guess we'l see? If it's 40 degrees I don't think that we'll be eating anything hot at all. Maybe cold turkey? Maybe just something on the bbq? I think it also might involve napping in the heat of the day? And they don't even call them shrimp here. They are prawns.

4) Decorations? Do they have wreaths like we do of fir boughs?

Sure. But they're plastic. Not many people decorate at all. I've see one house that has a decoration:

That's it. No exaggeration. That's the decoration.

There are some decorations in the CBD but I think that's more to remind people that it's gift giving season and that they should spend all their money.

5) Kids are off school now, right? Are they in the middle of summer vacation? When do they go back?

They must be. They are everywhere at the moment. I think they go back sometime in Feb. My friends are in university and they go back on Jan 10 but that's a completely different system.

Tomorrow morning bright and early we are off to Adelaide. Four of us will be driving in a tiny car, so that should be pretty friendly. We've decided to go the long way along the Great Ocean Road, stopping over night. I can't wait to see it!

I hope you have the Happiest Christmas with all those warm and wonderful feelings that family brings. I will be missing mine more than I can say.

Meredith

2011-12-19T01:49:00.001-06:00

Last weekend we went to Meredith Music Festival. I haven't camped at a festival since 2007 so even though we didn't know any of the bands we were pretty excited.
Look at this amazing rooftop tent of our pals!

Our humble campsite.

Chilling out.

What I look like with no makeup, no shower, little sleep and a mouth full of waffle.

Today I am thankful for the gift of music. Those who are able to hear and appreciate are truly blessed.

Sunday Shoes: Indigo shoe boots

2011-12-18T13:30:00.000-06:00

Indigo by Clarks from Gravity Pope, Edmonton

I was searching everywhere for some shoe boots that were actually decent to walk in. These are definitely them. Any Indigo shoe is guaranteed to be comfy! I love the different textures on the shoe as well because it's so much more exciting than a plain black shoe.

Getting into the spirit

2011-12-16T05:38:00.000-06:00

Christmas is one of my favourite times. I love the baking (both making and eating), the eggnog, the smell of the tree, the gaudy and shiny decorations, the mistletoe, the cold noses, the smell of cinnamon, mulled wine... Even more than Christmas itself I love the atmosphere leading up to the day.

Here in Melbourne, since I'm on the other side of the world, nothing at all seems like Christmas. The weather is getting hotter and hotter. I mean today is 29! (and it's 32 in Adelaide, where we are headed next week). There is barely any decorations up. No tree. No cozy factor at all. Instead of making mulled wine and letting that gorgeous smell fill the house, I'm drinking gin and tonics and hoping for more ice.

Since I'm not working I've lost track of the days. I see my friends at home putting up countdown days of work left. And I'm like "left until what?? Ohhhh Christmas break!"

I decided that I needed to do something to get me in the Christmas spirit. That something was cookies (it always is, really)

No cookie cutters makes for individual cookies!

Sometimes you make a really good attempt at decorating

Sometimes you spread leftover icing and go to read a book

Today I am thankful for being able to live in a place where I can use the kitchen. I lived in a share house in London and I was afraid of all the people who lived there (10 of us total) and of the dirty kitchen. Here it's is beautiful, light, and I can bake!!

Differences: Sushi

2011-12-15T05:03:00.000-06:00

This is me.

I am a big fan of sushi. And when I say that, I mean I like it. A lot. I get it most days for lunch both in Australia and at home in Canada.

In Canada takeaway sushi looks like this:

via

In Australia takeaway sushi looks like this:

The roll is huge and you just gnaw on it. I suppose that makes it much easier to eat on the go. Also the soya sauce is in this cute little fish containers.

Anyway you present it to me, I dig it. I think I just made myself hungry.

Today I am thankful for foods that I love being ever present and easy to find. Also for my mom insisting that I try sushi even though the first experience was pretty terrible. Note to future sushi enthusiasts: do not start experimental sushi tastings with a slimy eel. Try an creamy avocado roll instead. It will change your life. True story.

graffiti

2011-12-14T06:46:00.000-06:00

This is what greets me on the pavement as I leave the house each morning.

Just goes to show that 14 year old boys are the same the world over.

Also I may be slightly immature for taking a picture of it...

Expectations you could never live up to

2011-12-13T02:25:00.000-06:00

Ugh. Expectations are the worst. They cause me the most pain. I've learned to try to not get too excited about things. Because getting excited makes me hope for things and then when everything goes to hell, I feel crushed. I used to have a friend who would always make plans, I would get really excited and then she would ultimately flake out at the last minute. So I learned that if I wasn't excited about anything, I wouldn't be disappointed by anything.
But I love love love getting excited about things. Sometimes the anticipation is the very best part. Christmas Eve is the best bit of the holiday season. Friday is the best night because there is the whole weekend left to enjoy. Part of what I love about myself is that I love things, I'm excited by things, I find the world interesting most days, when I'm my best. I don't want to lose that because I'm afraid of being disappointed. I'm trying to get excited but not disappointed.

Today at 10:08am I had a job. Today at 9:14pm I didn't. In those few hours I got really excited even though the job was vague, strange, undefined and confusing. Maybe just because it's been 2 months of applying and applying and applying and this was some hope. Something to do. Some reason to get up in the morning other than to go for a walk and do the dishes. Especially now that the Gentleman Caller is out of the city. He has this awful job selling internet door to door and is subject to old ladies pooing themselves, old men trying beating him with a cane and dogs with bared teeth attacking him. And he's away all week. Maybe two. Ugh.

Bollywood

2011-12-12T00:39:00.001-06:00

I love a costume party. I love them more than most things. It's so fun to dress up and see how far people will take a theme. Recently we went to a friend's 30th birthday party in full Indian Bollywood style. We drove out to a suburb called Dandenong to go shopping for our outfits.

I actually felt pretty uncomfortable since I was concerned about cultural appropriation and was hoping against hope that the people of Indian descent didn't think that we were making fun of them. When we arrived at the clothing stores the shop keepers were so very friendly and helpful. They seemed happy to help us make the most of our Bollywood adventure, so that made me feel a bit better about it.

The birthday girl hired out an entire Indian restaurant and the employees were all dressed in beautiful saris. They were pretty excited because they never get to wear traditional things to work regularly.
Since we are slightly low on funds and space we didn't go all out like some of the other guests. We dressed up, ate delicious food and had a great time! Also it was the most comfortable birthday party ever! And cool too... I'm definitely wearing this again in Adelaide, where it's supposed to be hot enough to melt your eyeballs. Super.

Kurta & bangles: Roshan's in Dandenong

lei: gift from birthday girl

scarf: gift from Somalian client

pants: Lulu Lemon

sandals: Teva

earrings: gift from mama

necklace: English village shop

cuff bracelet: gift from uncle

bag: Matt & Nat

Today I am thankful for bright colours and the best food. Sometimes that, plus good company, is all that you need!

Sunday Shoes: Black Camper Twins

2011-12-11T13:27:00.000-06:00

Camper Twins from Camper store, London, England

My family came to visit me in England in 2006 and we stumbled across the Camper store in Knightsbridge. My sister and I got awesome flat Campers and wore them all over Italy and Ireland. Comfy and Cute!

Sugar Belly

2011-12-06T00:34:00.001-06:00

This post is about bellies. Well, one belly in particular: the Sugar Belly. Lately I've spent a lot of time (more than I'd like to admit) thinking about the Sugar Belly. About how it crept up on me. About how when I look down I get confused that it's attached to me. About how when I catch myself in a mirror unexpectedly I think "why is that belly lady walking so close to me?" I think that since I've been in Australia I've been thinking about it more. Maybe because it's getting hotter and hotter by the day and I can't keep the Sugar Belly under layers because I'll just melt. Maybe because in the area I live there are many many many tiny hipsters wearing leggings and sheer crop tops and I know that I'll never look like that. And then I remember that I never want to look like that.

I read a lot of blogs and I love when I see other bloggers wearing a pencil skirt and they have this lovely little belly bulge. I think it's beautiful, womanly and sexy. It makes them look like classic 1950s women and I love how clothes look on these other women. But when I see that same rounded tum on me? It just looks all wrong. Why is it that I can love a feature on someone else but when it's on me I want to hide it away?

I have some loving and forgiveness to work on I think.

I need to remember that this is the body that I have. This is the body that has carried me through my very lucky 30 years. This Sugar Belly rose gently and partially because of falling in love and spending the best times cuddled up, drinking wine and eating cheese. And I wouldn't trade that for the world. My Sugar Belly is strong and the skin is so soft. And maybe this is just the shape that I am right now. And maybe that's ok.

Sal from Already Pretty shared a link to this project the other day. It's where normal women, just like you and I, sent in photos of their bellies. Big, small, flat, rounded, soft, taut, stretch marked, and baby-full. And you know what? THEY ALL WERE BEAUTIFUL! They all were real. Victoria Secret bellies are real bellies for a very, very few and regimented beautiful people. The rest of us? We're beautiful too. Real is better. Real is always better. Ok?

Phillip Island: The Pinnacles

2011-12-04T18:20:00.001-06:00

When the Gentleman Caller and I went to Phillip Island we walked down to Cape Woolamai.

We walked along the beach and up to the highest point to see the Pinnacles, a rock formation.

tops: both from target

jeans: NY & Co

sunnies: Ricki's

We ended up walking 23km that day! I have to stop carrying a big, heavy bag full of books if I'm going to go on a long journey!

Click through to see all the pictures!

Today I am thankful for the sea. I grew up in a landlocked province and the sea was never part of my life. When I moved to England I lived right on the coast and could hear the sea outside my window. I love that it's so mesmerizing and powerful. I love the smell, the sound, the feeling that we are all connected. Across that ocean is my family and friends. And I am here. But the water I see today could have a droplet of water all the way from home in it...

Sunday Shoes: Fly London Wedges

2011-12-04T13:20:00.000-06:00

Fly London from Gravity Pope, Calgary

These were my first pair of expensive shoes. I fell in love with the colour and the style. It was the beginning of a Fly London love affair.

Chocolate Factory

2011-12-01T04:51:00.000-06:00

The Gentleman Caller and I went for a mini holiday to Phillip Island.

There is a chocolate factory on the island. A CHOCOLATE FACTORY!! Where you get chocolate samples! Of chocolate! All very thrilling, I know.

Read about the whole adventure at Mind the Ramp!

Today I am thankful for... you guessed it, yummy delicious chocolatey goodness

Aquarium Style

2011-11-30T06:16:00.000-06:00

We spent an afternoon at the Melbourne Aquarium. Dressing is tricky here since in can rain like mad and then be hot and sunny. I wish I had something really flowy so that I could fit in with all the lovely fish...

top: Target

cardigan: Ricki's

jeans: New York & Co

See more pictures of the Aquarium adventure at Mind the Ramp

Today I am thankful for fish tanks. I think fish are lovely to look at but horribly gross when dead on a beach and frightening when one brushes past my feet. I like to keep some distance between me and my fear of things with little bones...

Night Market

2011-11-29T06:38:00.000-06:00

Last week we remembered that the summer season Night Market at Queen Victoria Market was starting. I didn't really know what to expect. I guess I thought that it would be similar to the regular market... just darker?

Fantastic Sangria

It was fantastic!! There were heaps of people, amazing variety of food, and lots of little shops full of delightful handmade goods.

Nepalese dumplings

Kangaroo Burger. Really dense meat, but not too bad!

Today I am thankful for discovering something unexpectedly fantastic. There could be an adventure right around the corner, you just have to have enough energy to go out and look for it.

Chapel Street

2011-11-28T06:10:00.000-06:00

We live close to Chapel Street which is a shopping street full of hipsters. Often, when I walk down the street I'm quite sure that I'm not quite cool enough. At the very least I don't wear enough leggings as pants and totally see-through tops to fit in to the scene.
The Gentleman Caller had a hankering to drool over expensive cars at the Lamborghini store:

After all that manliness I had to have a rest. Which, obviously means sitting at a pub. Drinking a delicious and sour beer called Perverse Sexual Amalgam. What a fabulous name!

Today I am thankful for trying new things. And understanding salesman who know that we were only there to gawk at the fancy vehicles.

Sunday Shoes: Forever 21 Sandals

2011-11-27T12:55:00.000-06:00

Forever 21 sandals

I bought these sandals during the Grand Opening of the Times Square Forever 21 in NYC last year. There were so many people and staff were offering manicures at the bottom of the escalators. I felt I had to buy something!

All you need is love

2011-11-27T02:42:00.001-06:00

Just saw this video. Still a bit teary. I love Love...

Pav

2011-11-26T03:49:00.001-06:00

We tried the classic Australia dessert Pavolva.
Basically it's a giant meringue cookie with whipped cream and fruit. Pretty delightful, especially when covered with passionfruit puree, or as I like to call it Crazy Happy Fun Sauce!

Like a fox

2011-11-24T06:10:00.000-06:00

We are lucky enough to be included in most of our hosts social events. Last week we went to a backyard party at a beautiful house. It was beautiful and pretty fun. But after 2 hours of being with people who we didn't know, and 95% of them didn't make an effort to know us (but the ones who did were so lovely!) we decided to be true to our introverted selves. We walked home through a gorgeous area of the city with huge houses and views of the river.

We got some Mexican food, came home, and watched a movie. It was a great night!

top: Target

dress: Suncana

leggings: Ricki's

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

A word about this dress: At a market there was this lovely designer lady from Croatia. She had worked for many years in costume design for theatre. She made this dress and it's really cool. The front is black, the back is red-black and there are purple ties at the side. On the hanger it just looks like a shapeless bag. But the trick is to use the ties to do different things! Tie in front, back to the side, wrapped around, tucked inside. It's like 7 dresses in 1! And it feels very Melbournian to me. Black but with an interesting cut. It may not always be the most flattering but it's always different and comfy!

Today I am thankful for the times that allow me to be social and allow me to have time to myself

Spicy

2011-11-22T05:36:00.000-06:00

The other day we were in the city and decided that we wanted to go for sushi. And what better kind of sushi to have than the ones that come to you on a little train! We found a place, sat down and then realize that it was $3 per plate. And those plates had maybe 2 tiny bits on them. So we promptly packed up our stuff and wandered down the street to Cookie. It's a restaurant/bar that has really delicious Thai-ish type food. And it has a cider on tap called Dirty Granny!
We tried to order what we had last time we were there with a friend. We ended up only getting one thing right. The other was a super hot dish that you wrapped in leaves that look like they could have been pulled off a tree outside. We are not very familiar with this kind of food so it was exciting!

Also there was a giant machine on the roof of the building across the way just jackhammering away. Very strange and potentially dangerous!

Normal looking building right? Look closer:

Whaaaaaat? Isn't he just going to jackhammer himself through the floor?

Today I am thankful for finding places in the city... and then being able to find them again to enjoy their delicious food all over again!

All those city lights

2011-11-21T05:07:00.000-06:00

Since the Gentleman Caller and I don't have jobs we spend a lot of time in the apartment looking for jobs. That means that at night I want to get out of the house and do something, even if its just going for a walk.
One Thursday night we took a tram into the city to see all the pretty lights.

And, naturally, eat truffles...

We also saved all our dollar coins and took them to a casino to play the 2 cent machines. We didn't win anything but it was a couple hours worth of entertainment!

top: Target

dress: Ricki's

belt: off H&M dress

tights & scarf: ?

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

Today I am thankful for an outing with my Gentleman. I'm happy that even though we see each other all the time now, I still get butterflies...

Sunday Shoes: Melissa Wedges

2011-11-20T12:06:00.000-06:00

Melissa wedges from Gravity Pope, Calgary

These remind me of classic Barbie shoes. They are made of plastic so they are super easy to clean and are comfortable as well. Plus they have that new Barbie smell... the whole car smelled like them on our 8 hour drive home...

Horse of a different colour

2011-11-17T05:58:00.000-06:00

One beautiful day we decided to stop applying for jobs and do something fun. We made our way to the Melbourne Museum. There was a special travelling exhibit about Tutankhamun that we really wanted to see.
That exhibit was really good but the big surprise was that the entire museum was fantastic! The only baffling part was the dedication to an entire area of the museum to Phar Lap. Apparently he was a really good horse and people everywhere loved him and so they have tons of memorabilia devoted to him. And when he died they stuffed his body and it's there in a glass case. That's all well and good. It's nice to have a national hero. Even if he has 4 legs. My problem with this obsession? Phar Lap died in 1932!!!! I know that I'm not a horse person but seriously? Some other creature or person must have done something sporting in the last 79 years to take the focus off a horse!

dress: gift

blazer: Ricki's

scarf: ?

leggings: Target

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

Today I am thankful for surprisingly lovely days. You know the ones that go in a different direction than you think that they will but it's actually delightful.

A small rant and a cute story

2011-11-16T05:09:00.000-06:00

The Rant
Australia is proving to be more difficult than planned. While we both had good jobs and were highly respected at home, here it's just been rejection after rejection. I was really hoping that I could work somewhere that would add to my resume when I get home. I knew that it wouldn't be an amazing job but I was hoping not to have to be a waitress because the hours are so terrible. Generally in my life it's been "Danielle! You are fabulous! Here's a job!" And I understand that no one knows me here and that fabulousness is hard to translate onto paper. But still. I have lots of skills. The Gentleman Caller has lots of skills.
The other thing is that many many many businesses refuse to hire people who are on our type of work visa. Sometimes you have to go through a 10 minute application and then at the end it will say that working holiday visas need not apply. Just put that at the beginning!
Every Australian who we've talked to said that we ought to go to CentreLink, which is like a government agency to help people find jobs. We had one very similar back home and anyone who is eligible to work in Canada is able to go there. So we got dressed up in interview gear and walked over there. We just got in door and the worker said "Yeah. We can't help you here. Not on that visa." So the government makes these visas really easy to get but actually doesn't want us here. I know that we can't be enrolled in programming or anything like that. We were just hoping for someone to maybe point us in the right direction and give some hints. Very very frustrating. And it's getting harder and harder to remember that I am actually hireable and have something to give to this country.

And all this was pretty dejecting until we walked around the corner and saw this:

The Cute Story
We went to a party a few weeks ago. It was, in classic Aussie fashion, a BBQ. The host wanted to make sure that we were welcomed and felt comfortable so he ran out to the store especially to buy us mayonnaise because he had heard that Canadians love mayonnaise. We didn't know this until the next day. And consequently we didn't eat any because we were eating bbq lamb and bbq chicken. I might have some mayonnaise on a burger. Maybe? Anyway I think that is the cutest and nicest thing...

Today I am thankful that I have my health. At least there's that.

Cup Attire

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

There were some pretty incredible dresses and hats at the Melbourne Cup. There were also some real unfortunate ones. There seemed to be some confusion on what was day wear and what was club wear. Some of the dudes went all out too with fedoras. One had a completely purple suit, shoes and all. Amazing.

The shoes that I planned on wearing had a flaw when I put them on: They had lost the heel tip! All was lost! I had to borrow some heels from a friend but they were a little too big and impossible to keep on for longer than 1/2 hour. Luckily I have a massive handbag and could fit the flats in as well...

dress: some dress that does 12 things that I bought from a Vancouver designer in 2008

top: Thermal long john for warmth

tights: Ricki's

Shoes: Camper

Hat & necklace: borrowed from friend

Today I am thankful for hats. They make you feel fancy or (if wide-brimmed) protect you from the sun!

Melbourne Cup!

2011-11-14T06:32:00.000-06:00

In Melbourne, the spring Racing Carnival is the big thing in October/November. The biggest day of all is the Melbourne Cup Day.

Outside our carpark

The hat is good!

We were lucky enough to be able to attend this year. I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that I had to wear something nice and wear something on my head. Ollie and I had gone shopping a couple of week prior and I discovered that hata are outrageously expensive. Even the bin full of broken hats and left over feathery bits was still over $50.

This is where you bet!

Food? Champagne? Yes please!

Watching the races

I also knew that we'd be outside all day and because Melbourne has 4 seasons in one day I would probably be cold. I wore a thermal top underneath my dress 'cause I'm classy like that.

GOOOOOOOO!

Maybe someone won?

Basically the Melbourne Cup was a fancy tailgate party. We were in the nursery (a giant parking lot) and had a gazebo with buckets of champagne and lovely bits to eat like mini quiche, antipasto platters, and mini cakes. It was beautiful! We watched the horse races on a giant screen. And then we thought we'd bet.

Betting

This is what happens when your horse places!

Epic Winning

We even got to swap tickets and go into the wealthy area. It was a fancier carpark with more expensive champagne. But the best bit was that we were able to actually see the track and watch the horses go by.

Watching the horses go by

Amazing! Especially since horse racing is not something that is part of anything that we know about. The whole day was very strange and fantastic!

Today I am thankful for wonderful friends and friends of friends who include us in their fun times!

Sunday Shoes: Goblin boots

2011-11-13T05:19:00.000-06:00

Goblin boots from Daddylonglegs, Southwold, England

Oh these boots! In the very first week I started working in a pub in a tiny village in England I saw these boots in the village across the river. I went to visit them every week. They were far too expensive but I loved the colours and the turned up little toe. The week before I left that village they went on sale! Oh happy day! Sadly, they are very beat up after years of wear and went directly into the garbage after this photo...

Picnic

2011-11-08T22:44:00.000-06:00

The Melbourne Botanical Gardens are a beautiful place to go for a wander. We bought lunch at the milk bar across the street and hopped on the tram.

It was a super hot, perfect day to be out and about. We wandered, picnicked, and read our books in the grass.

top: Joe Fresh

dress: Miss Shop

shoes: Teva

necklace: art fair

There were so many different kinds of trees and plants that I had never kind of seen before. Perfectly relaxing, blissful day.

Bamboo Forest

Arachnophobia

2011-11-07T05:59:00.000-06:00

One day I went out the front door, looked up and saw this.

That is a BIG spider. Luckily out of the 2503 that can kill you, this isn't one of them. He just scares the pants off you.

Today I'm thankful for slow moving animals and my ninja-like reactions.

Sunday Shoes: Teva Sandals

2011-11-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

Teva Sandals

In going travelling one needs some comfortable shoes. I walked into the store and had to immediately ask for help. I explained to the girl that I needed something that was comfortable but that I didn't hate. These worked perfectly!

Tranny Bingo

2011-11-03T17:53:00.000-06:00

On Wednesdays we generally go to Tranny Bingo. It's just regular Bingo but the callers are two fabulous 'ladies'. Also there's a participation part as well. When they say the numbers everyone has to shout various rude but awesome things!

This week we had extra time and decided to walk rather than take the tram. We also came across a Lamborghini store where all the cars cost half a million dollars. And yet the office TV was playing Days of Our Lives. True Story.

blazer, top, jeans: Ricki's

bracelet: gift

scarf: gift

necklace: shop in Madrid, Spain

Today I am thankful for tiny traditions that make me feel that I almost have a home here. As soon as I get a job I'll feel even better.

HM The Queen

2011-11-02T17:47:00.001-06:00

The Queen came to Melbourne. Or as I like to think of it, my bestie Liz came for a quick visit.
I thought I'd just go down to see what all the fuss was about. I thought there'd be a lot of people but I also thought that they would have some sort of organization in place. I just barely got out of the train station and then the crowd stopped moving. I was stuck beside a screaming baby and this was about all I could see.

Today I'm thankful for being able to keep it together in very crowded places. And instead of immediately getting some vodka after this I had some sushi...

Koala Cuddles

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

A couple of weeks ago we went to see koalas! Eeee! Read about it here!

Sunday Shoes: Sparkly Nine West

2011-10-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Nine West, sparklated by me, from outlet mall in Minneapolis

These shoes languished at the back of my closet for years. I'm not sure why, they were a lovely burgandy colour and fairly comfortable. I was about to give them away when I was struck by the idea that I could make them better by making them sparkly. ModPodge and Glitter and a few hours later... Voila!

Traditions

2011-10-27T23:28:00.000-06:00

We participated in a time honoured Australian tradition: Tim Tams and Instant Coffee

Wildlife

2011-10-27T01:20:00.001-06:00

Last night this happened

The reason for this horrifying face was this

Oh so many possums!

Today I thankful for slightly people-afraid animals...

Miss Representation

2011-10-26T18:11:00.003-06:00

This has been everywhere lately. But it's really important.

Packing mistakes

2011-10-23T23:01:00.002-06:00

I'm not sure what I was thinking when I packed for this trip. I tried to. I read all those how to pack a capsule wardrobe posts. I made lists and thought about it for ages. I think that I knew in my head that it was going to be spring here but I couldn't get my heart out of autumn. I packed Fall dresses. I packed 5 pairs of leggings and was really concerned with tights. It was 33 degrees (91F) the other day. I have no need for tights. I packed 2 pairs of jeans, 2 pairs of shorts and a skirt. But I only packed 3 tops to go with them. And it turns out that they all have little holes in them from where they caught on my belt. I packed 3 bras. 1 is super uncomfortable. 1 is strapless, it has the ability to have straps too but I just didn't bring any. And the wire popped out on the 3rd as soon as we got on the first of 5 flights to get here. I had to make do with a bit of Kleenex and a bit of liquorice in order to make it through the digging in pain of it all. (for interests sake, the liquorice worked best, sticky and sort of gross but still...)
This is going to be an expensive change of season...

Sunday Shoes: Floral Camper Twins

2011-10-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

Camper Twins from Camper store, New York City

These shoes called to me while I was in NYC with my English friend and American friend who I met in England. The salesman sold them to me by explaining how well they would compliment my tattoos... SOLD!

Aussie Birthday

2011-10-20T17:47:00.003-06:00

Birthday!
For my 30th birthday we wandered down to the market. I think it might be one of my favourite places. Maybe I just really like beautiful fruits and vegetables piled up attractively?

We also went to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. There were lots of really interesting exhibits on the history of film and special effects interactive displays.

The most exciting part of my birthday was that my friend organized for us to go to Movida for dinner. This is an amazing little restaurant that is hidden down a little lane that is covered with graffiti. You would never know that it was a place that you have to book months ahead (she got these reservations in July). I've never had food like that. I've never even dreamed of food like that. It's a tapas bar so you order lots of little things and share them. Mostly it was cutting tiny portions in half and then losing your mind over the incredible flavour. I mean, we ate House Cold Smoked Spanish Mackerel with Pine Nut Gazpacho Sorbet, Pyrenees wet roast Lamb Breast with Fino and Paprika sauce and Hot Chocolate Ganache Pudding with Vanilla Bean ice-cream and Nougat, just to name a few. Absolutely and utterly incredible! As it was also outrageously expensive this was likely the only time that I will ever have something like that. Sadly I didn't take pictures of the food. I was busy eating it.

cardigan: gift

dress & tights: Ricki's

shoes: Fly London

necklace: gift

bag: Matt & Nat

bracelet: gift

Today I am thankful for being 30 years old, having amazing friends, and incredible food.

St Kilda

2011-10-18T21:30:00.000-06:00

Coming from the Canadian Prairies and landlocked most of our lives, the Gentleman Caller and I were pretty excited to see the sea. Granted, it was a bay but, man, it was a big one.

We went down to St Kilda beach, walked along the pier, and read our books in the sun. What a perfect day!

jacket & skirt: Ricki's

top: Joe Fresh

tights: We Love Colours

shoes: Quick Brown Fox

bag: Matt & Nat

Today I'm thankful for sunny skies and relaxation. And starfish because they are cool.

Walking

2011-10-17T18:56:00.000-06:00

Today Ollie organized us a walking tour. It was done by a friend of a friend (this wide world is actually very small). It was wonderful! I would highly recommend it! I love going on walking tours of a new city because it gives me a background of the history and layout of the city.

We learned so much and discovered why things in Melbourne are so cool. We also now know the downtown area of the city a lot better and can go back to some of the places that we wanted to check out a little more.

jacket: Ricki's

dress: Planet, gift

leggings: Target

shoes: Camper

bag: Matt & Nat

Today I am thankful for wearing comfortable shoes by accident. I didn't know we'd be doing this walking tour and it turned out wonderfully!

To market baby

2011-10-17T18:08:00.001-06:00

Today we went to the Queen Victoria market. I love markets because they are just so full of life and you never know what kind of amazing thing you are going to find there. The fruit and veg is much cheaper than in the grocery store. We bought enough food to feast for a week.

Our hosts, Ollie and Dave, have been showing us Australian movies so that we get the vibe of the place. So far we've watched The Castle, Two Hands and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. We're practicing our accents and learning Aussie slang. But we pretty much thing that it's mad as a bunch of cut snakes!

jacket & tights: Ricki's

scarf: gift

dress: H&M

shoes: Camper

Today I'm thankful that our friend Dave is tall so we didn't lose each other in the busy market!

EDIT: This is a repost because Blogger made all the posts overlap... grrr

Beijing Skies

2011-10-17T17:41:00.001-06:00

As I've mentioned before I'm not a light traveler. I try to pack everything that I might ever need into a backpack and then sling that onto my shoulder. We arrived in the Beijing airport with 9 hours to wait for our next flight. Sadly, even though our bags were checked all the way through, we had to pick them up and couldn't check them again until 3 hours prior to our flight. That meant many hours of dragging them around the most enormous airport of all time.

We decided to go outside the airport to see what we could see of Beijing. The answer is absolutely nothing at all. It was so smoggy. The air smelled like it was burning. It was so different from our wide prairie skies.

dress: Joe Fresh

leggings: Dynamite

shoes: Teva

Today I'm thankful for safe travels. And also travelling with someone else. It's much nicer to cuddle tp to someone in those tiny planes.

EDIT: This is a repost because Blogger overlapped all my recent posts.... messy

Sunday Shoes: Polka Dot Camper Twins

2011-10-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Camper from Gravity Pope, Calgary

I love Camper shoes. They are like pillows for your feet. I particularly love these because they are a pair but not the same at all.

Musings on growing older

2011-10-13T16:20:00.001-06:00

Today is my birthday (well it is at least here in Australia. Apparently I don't actually turn a year older until 7:48pm tonight. Time zones are weird). My 30^th birthday. While I’mvery very grateful for what I’ve done and who I’ve become it’s also not where Ithought I’d be at 30. But then again, all through my life I’ve never been whereI thought I would.

At 12 I thought that 16 would be the perfect age because I’dbe older and mature and have a handsome, football playing boyfriend (Damn youSweet Valley High!). At 16 Ithought that 21 was going to be the best because I’d be in university andpopular and clever, and that turned out to be a terrible year. 30 though? Iguess I always thought that I’d have it all figured out. That I would bemarried with children and a house on a hill.

But the more I think about thosethings and the person that I am, the more I know that those don’t fit me rightnow, and maybe not ever. And maybe that’s ok. Maybe growing up isn’t asprescribed as it used to be where people just didn’t things because they shouldand because it was the next step. Maybe now it’s ok to really look at your lifeindividually and know that everyone has different wants and needs at differenttimes. Just because I’m not doing what my friends are or what my parents diddoesn’t mean that either path is more or less valid. Maybe getting older isjust learning how to be brave inside you own skin? If that’s the case then Igratefully wish myself Happy Birthday.

G'day

2011-10-12T21:56:00.000-06:00

We arrived in Melbourne so so so happy to finally be here.When I lived in England ages ago, I traveled with an Australian girl. She andher boyfriend picked us up from the airport and have opened their home. Theyfed us an amazing breakfast and took us for a walk around the BotanicalGardens.

Melbourne is lovely but colder than we thought it would be.I understand that it is still spring here and that soon I’ll be too hot forwords. There isn’t any central heating in the houses. It’s chilly enough in theevening to definitely need it. The Australians keep bugging me that since I’mCanadian I should be used to the cold and it shouldn’t bother me. I think thatjust because you live in cold doesn’t meant that you have to be cold all thetime. I like being cozy. I’m making good use of blankets and space heaters.

Dress & cardigan: Ricki's

leggings: Target

shoes: Teva

glasses: Prada

Today I am thankful for hot showers after a 47 hour journey... Best thing ever!

How to release the goodness of pomegranate!

2011-10-11T11:13:00.000-06:00

Once upon a time I was travelling in Greece. I didn't have a lot of money but I did have a lot of time to wait for a ferry to take us to another island. My friend and I gathered together some coins and bought a couple of pomegranates. We didn't know how to open them up efficiently and we had loads of time to kill. We spent at least 2 hours slowly digging juicy seeds out. It was fun but ridiculous!

I've since discovered a much better and cleaner way to do it:

You'll need a pomegranate and a knife. Obviously.

Cut the top off

Score the pomegranate into sections

Place into a bowl of water and break apart under the water

Gentle run the pomegranate underwater until all the seeds are loose

Pour out the water catching the seeds in a strainer

Enjoy your pomegranate stress free! Yum!

Invincible

2011-10-10T22:22:00.000-06:00

This outfit is from about a month ago. I wore it simply because I love the colours together.

As I was walking back to work after lunch 2 girls passed me, giving me the head to toe with not much subtlety. And not so quietly remarking to each other "Well! She's sure confident!"
While I know that this was meant to be unkind I actually take it as a compliment. A few years ago I wouldn't have had the confidence to wear something so bright and attention grabbing. And maybe it's not for everyone but it sure as heck beats ripped and ill-fitting sweatpants...

crazy person dress: random store in Ireland

tank: Smart Set

tights: We Love Colours

shoes: Fly London "Fava"

Today I'm thankful for the confidence that comes with age... I'm not 22 anymore. And thank goodness for that. I'm much more me now.

Mind the Ramp

2011-10-09T18:07:00.002-06:00

We are here in Melbourne, Australia!!
Thank goodness for pre-scheduled posts...

I wasn't going to make another travel but then TJ (the Gentleman Caller) thought it would be a good idea. So here it is!
Mind The Ramp! Don't Stop!

Come along for the journey, if you like!

Hurrah! Ok! off to adventure!!

Sunday Shoes: Colombian Sandals

2011-10-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Sandals from Colombia

A client sold these to me. His sister makes them in Colombia and sends them to him in Canada to make a bit of extra money.

More than you ever needed to know

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

I saw this on Lady Smaggle's blog in mid-September and thought that I'd join in. You can too! Tell me in the comments or link to your own blog because I'm nosey (or as my mom says: Interested in people!)!!

A. Age: 29... creeping ever closer to 30
B. Bed size: Queen, which is the perfect size. I like the idea of a Kingsized bed but then I lose the Gentleman and feel like I'm swimming across the bed to find him.
C. Chore that you hate: Toilets. They are gross and awkward and the cleaning supplies that do the best job really make me cough...
D. Dogs: My family had a dog names Bailey but she's been gone for a few years. My sister and I think our parents should get a Golden Doodle... sometimes we email pictures of them to the holdout, my dad.
E. Essential start to your day: BBC Radio 1 on the internet. Even though it's in the afternoon there and the news is nothing I can relate to I like being in the English know.
F. Favorite color: Blue. Always blue.
G. Gold or Silver: Silver. I don't think that gold goes with my skin tone as well.
H. Height: My driver's license says 5'8" but it's a lot closer to 5'6.5".
I. Instruments you play: The car drums. Which is anything that I can drum to while the passenger in a car. Usually my lap.
J. Job title: While I'm writing this? Settlement Information Advisor. When I post this? Drifter
K. Kids: Nope. But I have lots of shoes.
L. Live: Writing: Saskatchewan, Canada. Posting: Melbourne, Australia
M. Mother’s name: Sheree
N. Nicknames: I didn't have one for a long time and was sad about that. As I get older though: D, Dani, DaniellaBella, Dilly
O. Overnight hospital stays: Maybe when I was born? I'm lucky that way.
P. Pet peeves: without a doubt tights or pants or leggings that fall down. I lose my mind. And when people just leave things for someone else to fix. If the photocopier is out of paper... put more in!!
Q. Quote from a movie: on trusting people and putting up walls: "Well you may not get hurt, but, Huff Puff, you won't get loved either" - Wolf, 10th Kingdom
R. Right or left handed: Righty-o
S. Siblings: One little sister, 5 years younger than me and very clever
U. Underwear: cute and that makes me feel sassy yet comfy. No one likes a wedgie!
V. Vegetable you hate: Cucumbers. And Celery. They just taste like spoiled water and celery is stringy.
W. What makes you run late: thinking that I have just enough time to do one little thing!
X. X-Rays you’ve had: Chest x-rays for The Asthma. And one for my finger when I caught my ring on the door handle and dangled in the air by my hand for a minute.
Y. Yummy food that you make: Sweet potatoes with carmelized leeks and creamy blue cheese. So damn good.
Z. Zoo animal: Penguins. They are always dressed up to meet you and do funny things. Plus they waddle.

Sneak a peek in my makeup bag

2011-10-06T06:33:00.000-06:00

I remember when I first started wearing makeup. I was so nervous to ask my mom if I was allowed. She decided that if I was going to wear makeup I'd better do it right. I went and had a makeover and have been gently experimenting ever since. I look forward to Makeup Mondays with Keiko Lynn because she is a genius. Maybe one day I could have that kind of skill.

These are the products that I use on a semi-regular basis, when I have slightly more energy in the morning to decide between products. And when I don't, I just throw on the bare basics.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer - if nothing else I always put this on, or else my face feels too tight for my head

Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Primer Skin - it makes my face so smoothy smooth!

Benefit Erase Paste Concealer - for my dark circles and undereye luggage
Benefit Some Kind of Gorgeous - I don't use this very much because I've never really felt comfortable with foundation. This is nice through because you just brush on a small amount
Benefit You're Bluffing - for redness and spots
CoverGirl LiquilineBlast Eyeliner Pencil - I like this eyeliner because it's very smooth and easy to put on
Revlon® Colorstay™ Liquid Liner - I like to wingout my eyes for dramatic effect
Benefit 'Moon Beam' Liquid Highlighter - for the perfect sheen on my cheeks and brow bone

Benefit Posietint - pinkish cheek colour. Looks like nail polish so is fairly terrifying at first!

Benefit Benetint - reddish cheek and lip colour Benefit Cosmetics Miss Popularity - highlighter for my peepers
Benefit Hollywood Glo - I saw a picture of Mandy Moore once and her skin was just beautiful. Glowing and dewy. I've been searching for a product ever since. This is the closest I've found and it's been discontinued!!!
Revlon Just Bitten Lipstain - I'm paranoid that I will have lipstick on my teeth. Lipstain is the solution!

Obviously, I'm a big fan of Benefit Cosmetics. I'm not even sure if it's the products themselves or their fun packaging... Either way, if I feel better I look better!

Oh and also before I appear too high-maintenance my travelling makeup bag is a Ziploc...

Takeoff

2011-10-04T22:51:00.000-06:00

October 5, 2011

"When you first arrive in a new city, nothing makes sense. Everythings unknown, virgin... After you've lived here, walked these streets, you'll know them inside out. You'll know these people. Once you've lived here, crossed this street 10, 20, 1000 times... it'll belong to you because you've lived there. That was about to happen to me, but I didn't know it yet."
- L'Auberge Espagnole (a brilliant film which everyone should watch)

Today the Gentleman Caller and I are leaving for Australia. We have a fairly brutal journey. A 47 hour journey that includes an 8 hour lay-over in Beijing. I hope we don't kill each other or ourselves.

I'll continue to blog whilst in Australia, I'm just not sure how yet. Perhaps I'll have more posts, perhaps less. Likely, there will be more travel and personal stories. Outfit posts may be limited as my wardrobe will have shrunk by about 90%. Soooo I guess we'll see. I would honoured and pleased if you'd like to come along this journey with me!

Today I am thankful for the miracle of human flight!

Missing things

2011-10-03T21:40:00.000-06:00

There are many things that I will miss as I leave my prairie home for a while. Here are some of them:

The park that I walk through on my way to work and the recognizable buildings from our skyline

Work

Trivia night with friends and food and Battletoads (Bourbon and Sprite - delish)

The beautiful sunsets

The tree in my parent's front yard that we watch grow bigger every year.

My mom's inukshuk

The essence of autumn: that certain smell of the cooling air and the crunch of the fallen leaves

The lake and the geese

The changing trees

My mini-apartment (right before we moved everything out)

Those big windows

The way the light fell in the morning

The silly knight and coat of arms lights in my apartment. So crap. So fantastic!

Today I am thankful for all the opportunities that are presented everyday...

Ending?

2011-10-02T23:52:00.002-06:00

I spent Thursday and Friday of last week packing up my life and cleaning my apartment. I never would have thought that I had so much stuff in such a tiny space. I honestly thought that I'd get through the whole thing in a few hours. Not so at all. I was worried about getting my damage deposit back just because I'd heard about so many people who didn't get theirs. I scrubbed the floor on my hands and knees, I scoured the tub, I tracked down every single dust particle in that apartment. The caretaker came in opened all the drawers and cupboards and checked to see that the window blinds worked and then wrote me a cheque. Seriously? All that work and he didn't take a white glove to the baseboards? Oh well. I worked hard and I guess that feels good.

The Gentleman Caller brought a big truck and my family helped me move out all my stuff. Right now I'm back at my parent's place. It's strange and wonderful to know that no matter what happens there is a place that I can always come back to.

Saturday was our going away party. We had a private room at a local pool hall/bar. It worked out really well and it was so nice to see all our friends from different areas of life. And my family showed up as well!

blazer: Ricki's

tank & belt: H&M

skirt: Sam's from vintage store

leggings: Target

shoes: Teva

necklace: art fair

Today I'm thankful for having all the big things like finishing work and packing up my apartment finished. I'm also so thankful for all the people who came out to the party. It was so lovely to see people out of their context and all having a good time. And I was worried that no one would show up... silly Danielley...

Sunday Shoes: Jeff Silverman Cartoon Villain

2011-10-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Jeff Silverman - designed by me

The Jeff Silverman website is quite amazing. You can pick the style and then pick the colours and fabrics to suit your style. I like to call these my Cartoon Villain shoes. They really remind me of Cruella De Vil and The Joker. They are utterly ridiculous and very loud but I love them!

Packing away

2011-10-01T07:52:00.003-06:00

I'm going to have limited shoes for a while...

Going through withdrawl already, I think.

What it means to be blessed

2011-09-28T23:23:00.002-06:00

This photo is from Monday but I'm writing this on Wednesday...

Today was my last day of work. So very strange. I've been so lucky to be able to work at such an interesting place. I love traveling and love learning about different cultures and languages. Working with Newcomers to Canada has let me dream of travel while learning so many things about the world.

My workplace is so diverse. We took some pictures yesterday and in one picture alone it was like a mini United Nations: Canada, Romania, Pakistan, Syria, Cambodia, Burundi, China. You know, just a regular day at the office. Any job can be a good job if you're with good people.

My coworkers have been so wonderful to me the last few days (and always). I was able to go for brunch with my old department this weekend. Then the girls got us surprise samosas. Then they planned a surprise potluck breakfast on Tuesday morning. That evening about 12 of us went out for dinner. It was such an honour that these amazing, busy women took time out of their lives to spend sometime with me to say goodbye.

And take this dress for instance. My coworker bought it for herself but found that it didn't fit. She brought it for me to try on at work and I just never even took it off. How amazing is that? Thank you Sarah!

I feel overwhelmed by the care and affection that I've felt from everyone, clients and coworkers alike. I will miss them all greatly. I already do. If any of my people are reading this: You have changed my life and that's something that I won't soon forget. Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my very full heart. Merci, Gracias, Grazie, Takk, Danke, Shukrun, Obrigado, Shukriya, Mahadsanid, Arkun, Kamsamnida, Galatoome, Xie Xie...

dress: Planet, gift from coworker

tights: Ricki's

shoes: Melissa from Gravity Pope, Calgary

earrings: Ardene

Today I am overwhelmingly, inside-ly and outside-ly, all encompassing-ly, thankful...

Buried in the mud

2011-09-27T21:16:00.000-06:00

The Gentleman Caller spent the weekend visiting with his grandparents and family members. I spent the weekend dusting behind my bed.

I also went for lunch with my mom and aunt for her birthday. It is still nice enough to sit outside, which is a blessing. It was such a lovely afternoon to spend with two beautiful women.

cadrigan: Smart Set

tank top & shorts: Ricki's

shoes: Camper

boxes: full of clothes

Today I am thankful that my family lives nearby. At least for now...

Also today is my last day of work! WHAT? I will miss these people greatly...

Nice Dream

2011-09-26T23:41:00.002-06:00

I have nothing to say really.
I'm slowly moving out of my miniapartment. Everyday I take more things out. Without memories on my walls it feels like I'm slowly disappearing... only to reappear on the other side of the world!

I don't know how people who have houses and children do this moving thing... I have so much stuff and my place is so very tiny.

cardigan & dress: Smart Set

belt: Suzy Shier

tights: Ricki's

boots: Ayla "Manhattan"

Today I am thankful for long work days and long fun evenings. These are the days you can only have in nice weather when energy is abundant.

Sunday Shoes: Aldo Heeled Clogs

2011-09-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Aldo

I bought these ridiculously high shoes in order to sparklate the clog heels. Gorgeous but nearly impossible to walk in...

2011-09-24T12:02:00.000-06:00

Coworker: I know I shouldn't let my son sleep in my bed. This morning I woke up and his toes were in my mouth!

FBFF: refashioning

2011-09-23T07:46:00.000-06:00

Elly from Adventures in Refashioning is hosting this week's topic of refashioning your things to make them awesome again!

I had this black pencil skirt that I've had since 2006. Eventually it got boring and I just couldn't be bothered with it. So I decided to embroider a Japanese flowering tree on it. Given that I'd only stitched a couple pieces of paper before I'm rather pleased with how this turned out!

This made me want to wear this skirt again and be joyful in it!

These are old pictures but they still work!!