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sale shopping etiquette

By Jo in Uncategorized 2 Comments Tags: , , , , ,

The other day, while shopping at one of my favourite stores, I witnessed a grown woman having a temper tantrum.  Unfortunately between her loud fits of rage, and obnoxious yelling, I couldn’t tell what the issue was.  Her victim?  A young lady.  Probably worked there part time, probably got minimal holiday training, probably wasn’t the first time she was yelled at that day.  I wonder how that lady felt after she left the store, knowing that she unloaded on another human being.  Maybe she has a daughter at home her age, who knows.  Granted, I have been on the other end of awful customer service, but if you are getting to the point where you are yelling at the Starbucks barista because she forgot your extra pump of sugar free vanilla, then girl you have other things to worry about.  And yes, I did see that happen the other day too.  Hey, shit happens. You might not get the drink you ordered, you may buy a shirt that goes on sale the next day and you can’t get the discount (I don’t agree with that, but I would never ruin someone else’s day over it.)  Just learn to be a cautious shopper, and understand that maybe customer service isn’t the best at this time of year, people are exhausted it’s sale season, so calm down.  I have had some shockingly bad customer service, at stores that are known for their great customer service, so if that happens there are other ways to deal with it, like for example quietly speaking to a manager instead of exhausting your anger and energy on the cashier.  If you don’t agree with anything I’ve said, then wait until February to start shopping again. If you are the lady who lost her shit at Starbucks, then I just want to tell you that you spent $3 on your coffee, 4 minutes yelling at someone, and carried and spread a useless amount of anger all day.  Was it worth it?  Nope, not at all.

the easiest appetizer

By Jo in food, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

I love the holidays mainly for the get-togethers and the food!  I hosted a potluck last night, and it was so much fun to get everyone together for a good meal.  I wanted to share this delicious appetizer with you all, because it’s so easy and SO tasty.

You’ll need:

  • fresh bakery bread, I used fig & anise bread as well as a loaf of cranberry & pistachio bread from Terra Bakery.
  • a jar of fig jam
  • fresh thyme
  • pomegranate
  • goat cheese

The rest is just assembly.  Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces, and assemble the cheese then the jam, sprinkle with thyme and place a few pomegranate seeds on top, and you’re done!

 

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Roaring 20′s

By Jo in Trending, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Recently I have been obsessed with watching Downton Abby.  I just cannot get over how gorgeous the styling of the 20′s is.  If I could wear beaded gowns, red velvet shrugs, and head pieces on the daily…without getting weird looks, I would do it!  Instead here are some Downton Abby inspired pieces that will work in 2013.

Needlelace T-straps $158, by Lucky Penny for Anthropologie

Vintage gloves – find similar on etsy

Lace-Framed Cardigan $128, by Knitted and Knotted for Anthropologie

Soigne Pin Cloche $48, Anthropologie

Wild Rose Comb $325, from Paris by Debra Moreland, for BHLDN

Pin Dots and Proper Bag $55, Modcloth

Flapper Girl Dress Trio, click here for links.

Vintage Cameo Brooch $45, Etsy.

Vintage Tea Set $45, Kaboodle (The Tea Pot Shoppe)

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gifts for gals

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It’s nice to treat the ones close to you.  I know this time of year brings a lot of mixed feelings, but the holiday season isn’t only about needless gift giving.  It is a good time to buy thoughtful gifts for those you appreciate.  Not that appreciation is only shown through gift giving, but I honestly LOVE finding gifts for my friends and family.  Hunting for something for someone special is enjoyable for the gift giver too :)  Here are some suggestions.  I love the Polaroid camera, it’s great for the gal who isn’t easily thrilled with accessories and girlish gifts.

Polaroid Camera Kit | Matika Stone Necklace | Marc Jacobs Rollerball Trio | Happy Socks |  Rancher Hat | Charlotte Ronson Makeup Bag

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this ain’t juicy

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

Ok, I think it’s time we had a chat.  I tried to ignore it, but…well now the problem has become pretty clear.  It’s not you…ahem…er…it’s your handbag.  That god awful, not-so-juicy number you’ve been carrying around has got to go.  Ain’t nothin’ “juicy” about it girl, please ditch that thing.  Do not take it to a job interview, and for the love of fashion and put together women all over the world, find a classic bag that doesn’t make you look like you’re a confused teenager who spent $200 on a bag that looks like it was made and embroidered by my grade eight Home Ec teacher. (Deep breath). It’s not your fault, you’ve been misled and you’re slightly confused…it’s ok, I’m here to help.  Take a look at these options.

 Gypset Chevron Satchel | Anthropologie | $278

Rita Colorblocked Purse | Anthropologie | $128

Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac Bag | Piperlime | $195

Ask for the Maroon Bag | Modcloth | $70

ready for rain

By Jo in outfit of the week, Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I get asked all the time: “how do I still look put together for school/work in this weather?”  The rain has started here in Van, and is not going to let up for a while now but don’t be stuck in sporty wear all winter….please wear your lululemons to yoga, they don’t belong in the office, yes I’ve seen this believe it or not.  Instead of a track suit looking rain jacket, substitute this water resistant anorak…the lining is plaid which is very cute.  I’m tired of the classic Hunters, so instead of the tall Hunter boots I really like this bootie version, they are discrete and look cute with skinnies tucked in.  

Knee high socks | Anthropologie $36

Scout’s satchel | Anthropologie $278

PGD Alice Anorak | Plenty $149

Betsey Johnson bow umbrella | Modcloth $38

Knit hat | Piperlime $48 (by Echo)

Hunter booties | Plenty or Shopbop $120

 

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ELLEBelles

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , ,

What is the best part about fall/winter?  The feeling of a cozy, infinity scarf wrapped around you!  I just bought this amazing hand-knit ombré scarf by ELLEBelles.  The colours she uses are amazing, and I bet she could do some custom colours if you ask nicely.  This is her facebook page.  Contact ELLEBelles to get your scarf!

Hannah

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

A friend and I popped into Brandy Melville the other day, and the sweetest little gal was helping us out with our finds.  Meet Hannah, a natural beauty, and genuinely nice she basically changed my opinion about the store, since (let’s just be frank) the service there isn’t always great, sorry but it just had to be said.  Anyway, Hannah’s personality wasn’t the only thing I liked, her outfit was too cute.  I love the way it isn’t overstated or overdone, it’s trendy but comfortable and not over thought.  Check out Brandy Melville for an array of hi-lo skirts, grungy pieces, and some trendy looks.  That day I took home a gorgeous floral extreme hi-lo skirt, more like a mullet than a hi-lo, and I can’t wait to wear it with tights and some rugged boots!  Happy hunting y’all!

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a new focus

By Jo in Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , , ,

The theme of the month of August so far has been to really keep things simple.  I decided to do a little experiment, sort of a reverse before and after or a make-under of sorts.  I started feeling a spell of anxiety after I took an inventory of all the items in my closet.  Spilling with tops, dresses, skirts, pants, blouses, vests, pullovers, rompers….yikes, I needed to find ways to wear them.  So that was what July was dedicated to…wearing things from seasons past and breathing new life (and style) into them.  So now I need to sort of detach myself.  Your clothes shouldn’t give you anxiety!  I decided to be basic.  That means t-shirt, jeans, and flats or sandals and very minimal make-up, if any at all.  This was a challenge for me, but I didn’t want to feel controlled by a need to constantly be “on”.  I absolutely enjoy playing dress-up and I don’t think that will change, but at times I need to remind myself to keep it simple.  This little experiment has allowed me to get an extra 30 minutes of sleep every morning, and the world can also see my face full of freckles which are usually hidden under a blanket of bronzer!  Anywho, here’s to August’s new focus, and an experiment to see how long I can last.

xoxo

Jo

Stuffed Zucchini (koosa mahshi)

By Jo in food, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , ,

What is the best part about visiting your childhood home?  Mom’s home cooking of course.  I love Lebanese food.  I am an amateur cook when it comes to middle eastern cuisine, but my mom definitely is not.  This is one of my favorite dishes, and I will include the recipe for you.  If you’re intersted in learning the tricks of the Lebanese cook, you should buy the cookbook called “A Taste of Lebanon” by Mary Salloum.  It’s an old cookbook, but it’s the best.  Hope you enjoy the photos, and if you make it yourself, “Sahtain” (To your good health).

ingredients:

8 zucchini

3/4 cup rice (washed and drained)

1 cup ground beef

1 1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/2 tsp cinnamon

2 tbsp butter

1 5 ounze can tomato paste

water

 

Cut off the growth end of zucchini.  Hollow them out by using a table knife, or apple corer. removing the pulp and leaving a 1/4 inch wall.  Be careful not to pierce walls, set aside.

Set oven at 400°F.

Mix all other ingredients together except tomato paste and water.  Stuff the zucchini with the mixture.  Lay side by side in a roasting pan.  Mix the tomato paste with 1 cup water and pour over the stuffed zucchini.  Then add enough water to cover.  Cover and bake for 60 minutes until rice is cooked.

 

Tip:  You can add pine nuts to the mixture for a yummy crunch ;)

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what’s your philosophy?

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I know you all have seen the Philosophy line before, it’s a popular brand for good reason.  My mom and I are obsessed with the travel size Amazing Grace perfume, it’s small enough to throw in your bag and significant enough to last you a while.  Do you have a philosophy fave?  There are so many to choose from!  I also love the coconut scrub, which feels amazing after a warm summer day, and leaves skin feeling so soft.

Check out the entire Philosophy line here.

Sign up for Hunter & Hare email and you will be entered in to win a free Philosophy lip gloss!  

 

 

a balanced look

By Jo in outfit of the week, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , ,

I always talk about balance when building an outfit.  The best way to put a look together is to put the feminine with the masculine.  I tend to take the frilly, girly look to heart – and even I have to remind myself that adding an edge or some cut looks to a flowy dress can really be fashion forward.  This dress I’m wearing is super light and soft, so I paired it with a navy, double breasted blazer.  I added the fedora for a little edge, and the little eyelet cropped top adds a little more softness (recently purchased from Brandy Melville on Granville).  The two tone infinity scarf is also from Brandy Melville, fedora and dress are from Plenty, blazer is from Anthropologie 2 years ago.

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Bon Iver

By Jo in real life, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gotta love Vancouver in the spring and summer!  Last year we got to see the Decemberists at the Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park and this year Bon Iver at Deer Lake Park (in Burnaby).  Outdoor concerts are so beautiful, the people watching alone is a good time and nothing beats the unified sound of everyone singing along to their favourite songs, so therapeutic.  This what I heard, saw, smelled, and felt:

I heard music (obvy!), cheering, laughing, whistling, talking.

I saw vivid prints on blankets, sunlight everywhere, floral dresses, maxi dresses, cutoff shorts, popcorn, flip flops, iPhones, couples holding hands, friends talking, dancing, pony tails, friends hugging, people meeting, and so much laughter – everyone was having a great time.

The smell of perfume was in the air, along with aromas from the food vendors, mostly popcorn and donairs!  I was okay with that!

I could feel the good vibes, it was a beautiful sunny day, and the whole thing was just….well….amazing.

What I wore:

Comfy minnetonkas, oversized shades, my newest beaded and glittered Free People tank top, and my very House of Harlow inspired necklace (from Aldo, currently sold out online).  Oh yeah, I also wore pants in case you were wondering, just some skinnies obviously! I also brought along my quilted Aritzia anorak for some cozy warmth when the sun went down.

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shellac, part 2

By Jo in Trending, Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , , , , ,

So remember how I got a shellac manicure before traveling to Europe?  Well, I just want to report back and share my thoughts on shellac.  The pic on the left is the day I got the manicure, and the pic on the right was taken 10 days later.  As you can see the manicure lasted a while, but you can obviously see the new nail growth.  After about two weeks I could start to see cracks in the actual lacquer, but overall I felt like the shellac is worth it.  Here’s the thing, if you’re like my sis you’ll have a strong urge to peel the shellac right off, and to you I say “STOP THAT” it harms your nails!  If you get them taken off at the salon, it’s obviously much better and not harmful to your little delicate nail beds.  I also loved that my nails underneath were nice and long, I would definitely recommend the shellac manicure.  In fact, I’m going to get another set on Monday.  Happy hunting for a good nail salon, I have one in my neighbourhood that is awesome, decent prices, and it’s across the street from one of Vancouver’s best coffee shops, perfect way to spend a monday morning I’d say!

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fascinating

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments

I’m still compiling all my photos from our European adventure, and I just had to post something about these gorgeous fascinators!  We went to an amazing wedding in Ireland, and aside from having a blast and drinking and eating enough for the whole week, I loved seeing what everyone wore!    Take a look at a few of my favourite fascinators.  Also, how cute is the gal in the chocolate brown coat?  I loved her whole look, and creepily asked her for a photo for my blog.

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layers in ireland

By Jo in Uncategorized 2 Comments Tags: , , , , , , ,

I loved Ireland.  It was a bit cold so when the sun was shining, we definitely took advantage of it.  Layers are good here, I’m wearing a Minkpink tunic, with pleats in the back, a Minkpink loose blazer, boots are Hushpuppies, bag is Anthropologie.  The crochet top was part of a Collective Concepts top, but thought it mixed well with this tunic.  Great idea to always use your pieces in different ways.

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London day 5, Paris day 1

By Jo in real life, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , ,

London day 5 was actually Paris day 1 since we had to catch the train pretty early in the morning.  At this point I am still dealing with jet lag, which is so irritating because I am literally sleep walking, falling asleep…as a I walk….during the day.  I am someone who is and has always been affected by sleep or lack there of, so on this day when we arrived in Paris in the a.m. I was somewhat awake, but then after a lot of walking and getting on the city tour bus I was out.  In fact I missed most of the bus tour, ok all of it.

After I got a handle on my sleeping pattern, Paris was great.  Basically the first day was just to explore a bit, buy some metro passes, and make some plans.  We used airbnb to book an apartment instead of a hotel.  That was a great idea, half the price of a hotel for a great place in a good area.

That’s it for now, no pics on this day unless you want to see me dozing off on the train, dozing off on the tour bus, and dozing off while walking the sidewalks of Paris.  I bet you would wouldn’t you?

Bye for now,

Jo

oh, baby!

By Jo in Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

I love that it’s that time that friends and family are having babies!  I have to be honest that when I first became an auntie, I would walk in to a store looking for a gift and would get totally confused, “is that a breast pump, or a telephone?”  haha Now I’m a little better at knowing what gifts to get.  I know practical gifts are good, but I’ve always been a fan of decorative or sentimental things.  Since my best friend just delivered a beautiful baby boy to this world, I have been thinking of what gift to get, and I thought I would share some good suggestions with you!  I have to say that monogram pendants, such as the ones below (Potterybarn Kids) are so cute.  Get the baby’s initials, and it’s such a cute keepsake for mama-bear!  The plush letters from Anthropologie make adorable wall art for the nursery, and the classic letter blocks are a nice touch of decor too.  The little tin at the bottom includes all the supplies needed for a homemade hand or footprint (clay included)!  I love it, also from Anthropologie!  Lastly, the oversized handbag is actually a diaper bag, with all the necessary compartments, and if the mom-to-be is super stylish this is a great gift for her (from allmodern.com).  My favourite gift though, has got to be the necklace because what new mom doesn’t want some fancy new jewels after pushing out a baby?  Am I right ladies, or am I right!?

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mini, midi, or maxi?

By Jo in outfit of the week, real life, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

In my “garden love” post for Style Nine to Five, I showcased this lovely crochet and floral dress from Free People ($118), and I loved it so much well, er, I ordered it online.  It’s so bright, painterly, and feminine.  It goes perfectly with my floral crown and the locket that I bought ages ago.  The dress comes in a pretty yellow and mauve version too!  The handbag is old Anthro, but there are several places to get a bright bag these days, just make sure you don’t take a short cut, a good quality bag is noticeably good quality, go to Winners and you might be lucky and find something great for a good price, look for good stitching and try to stay away from hardware that is overly shiny.  You can barely see my nail polish, but I’m wearing Mint Sorbet by Sally Hansen and it’s my must-have nail colour this season!

First, identify what your plans are this summer, then find the perfect dress to match your lifestyle.   Are you going to a lot of weddings?  Are you planning on going on a lot of hot dates ;) ?  Or, are you planning on long walks by the water?   If all of the above sound good, well then girl you got some shopping to do ;)  Keep in mind your height when shopping for specific lengths of dresses, if you’re petite you can wear a maxi, but make sure you’re wearing a cute pair of heeled wedges.  You long-legged gals be careful with the mini dress, don’t wear too high of a pump.  Keep it classy, ladies!

Happy hunting for your favourite summer dress this year!

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mace pepper gun

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , ,

Ok so you all know that hunter&hare is up there on my list of what’s important in my life, and it’s mostly about being your fashionable, amazing self, dinner with friends, great finds, and great places to visit (going to Portland this weekend!)  With all the frilly, flowery, girly things I like to talk about, this particular item fits the bill.  When I am not wearing pumps and pearls, I like to go out for a walk or a jog in my neighbourhood, and before I had Alvin (who is more fierce than he looks by the way) I would encounter some strange people, not surprising Vancouver is a city after all.  My good friend Anna, suggested I get myself one of these pink mace pepper guns!  No, no, I am not someone who has a floral print tool set, and no I don’t dress Alvin in little man suits (although that might be cute), and no I don’t wear sparkle eye shadow in purple and baby blue (and I’m not saying those things are bad, they are just not me) but come on people, sometimes a gal needs to kick some ass, and it wouldn’t hurt to have some extra help with a gun-shaped can of mace, in a lovely pink hue no less!

Sometimes feisty lebanese Jo comes out to play, but jogging alone you need more than good comebacks and a death stare, although that usually works!  Mom I know you’re reading this, don’t worry, it’s not like I go jogging at night – sheesh I’m 28 yrs old, loosen your grip woman! haha…kidding…love you…yes my doors are locked…and I will drive safely, and my seat belt will be on, and no I’m not talking and driving, you’re on speaker phone. (feisty lebanese jo has a feisty lebanese mom)

anyway, you can get this from defend thyself, for $80.  Get it here.

 

happy valenTIMES day

By Jo in Uncategorized 4 Comments Tags: , , , ,

How many people do you know that totally butcher words in the English language?  Ok, sometimes I am one of those people, but there is one particular word that drives me nuts, and it’s so appropriate to talk about it today.  ValenTIMES day!  For all of you who say ValenTIMES instead of Valentine’s day, thank you – because without you, Shane would not have made me this sweet card.  He knows just how much I love/hate Valentine’s.  From this day forward it will now be known as valenTIMES day.  Also, it’s SPAGHETTI, not PASGHETTI, ESPRESSO not EXPRESSO, and LIBRARY, not LIBARY – and if you’re not a toddler, you have no business saying things that make you sound less intelligent (I draw the line at 5 years old).  Just saying! For your own good!  Love you mom, because I know you still say CINNANOM instead of CINNAMON, and I think it’s adorable, just never host a cooking show ;) haha ok, folks that’s all the bitching I will do in February (I promise) and secretly I think all the language butchering is kinda cute.

To all of my amazing readers, enjoy today (and everyday), have a very loving and happy valenTIMES day.

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i heart you

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Who is Valentine’s day really for?  I have to admit that I have always thought that  romantic gestures on Valentine’s day are SO cheesy, aren’t they?  Come on folks, show the love all year, not just on Feb 14th.  With that said, I think it’s sweet to share little goodies with girlfriends, sisters, moms, coworkers…basically the females in your life.  Growing up, my sister and I always received candy and a teddy bear from our cute mom, and I like that little tradition.  Do I expect Shane to rent a limo and send a dozen roses to my workplace?  He better not, will I say no to a picnic and an afternoon walk (no, but we can do that any time right?)  So ladies, stop putting so much pressure on the men in your life (ahem or man, singular not plural) and have a romantic day with your girlfriends instead! Here are some sweet little ideas for you,.  These are my personal picks, making the stressful hunt for gifts easy.  At the end of the day, a batch of red velvet cupcakes would be perfect too….recipe for that soon ;)

Happy hunting,

Jo

1.  tarina tarantino makeup brush set $69 | sephora  2.  sleep set $30-$60 | aerie  3.  paul & joe makeup palette $36 | urban outfitters  4.  sweet almond soap with tin case $9 | lather bee rich  5.  fingerless gloves $25 | modcloth

 

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the last 365

By Jo in Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , ,

When you look back on 2011, what do you see?  Are you remorseful, are you proud, are you shocked at how 365 days feels more like one week?  The other day I said out loud, “2011 could have been better,”  and like a good older sibling, my sister looked at me and replied “are you serious?  look at all the amazing things you got to do this year!”  I felt a little ashamed, and then I decided to run through what I did do this year, and felt pretty grateful after I jotted it down.

My best friend’s wedding in Mexico started off 2011, in February we all got to go and watch a beautiful wedding and enjoyed the sun and beach for a whole week.

Moving to Vancouver, having it’s goods and bads of course, I always feel a loss for the folks I left behind and a job I once loved, but nothing compares to being close to my family, and waking up every morning hearing the crashing sounds of the ocean and the creaking old wood floors beneath my feet (I love our heritage apartment).  I made some amazing friends in Vancouver too, I am so grateful for that.

I got to actually do something I have always wanted to do, and out of a summer of trying to take a break – I developed hunter and hare, and I’m so happy I did!

My little Alvin (one of our two family dogs) came to live with us, and let me tell you – I would go on far less walks if my little buddy isn’t around to remind me that we need fresh air.

New York and Arizona – I always feel grateful and lucky to be able to travel.

I know we all have amazing days, we all have bad days and I sometimes need to recap an overall picture to grasp the importance of just one year.  There are hills, slopes, and valleys but all in all I would say that 2011 was one hell of a year, and 2012 I’m ready for you!

 

dahlhaus

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , ,

Does this pottery look familiar to you?  Heather Dahl, a Vancouver ceramic artist was chosen by Anthropologie to sell a select number of her pieces for the Anthropologie Vancouver store opening, they must have done so well because now I see them on the Anthropologie website!  They are all such beautiful pieces, I own a couple myself and have gifted one to my best friend.  The modern and very clean look is gorgeous, and knowing they are handmade and canadian-made means a lot to me. Visit her website directly: dahlhaus — Home.

I have two of these little vases, my colours of choice were light blue and grey, they are currently in my bathroom!

spring arrivals are here!

By Jo in Trending, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I get so excited for spring arrivals, especially after a rainy winter.  Look at all these beautiful bright shades!  Looks like colour blocking and stripes are still here to stay, but that’s okay – I will gladly embrace them for another season.  

chroma-kissed floppy hat $58, anthropologie | kaleidoscope earrings $5.80, forever 21 | straightaway jacquard mini dress $168, anthropologie | cropped striped tee $20, american eagle | michael antonio peep toe heels $69, piperlime | boutique 9 t-strap flat sandal $99, piperlime | marc by marc jacobs merida striped cover up dress $195, shop bop | colored sunglasses $10, urban outfitters | Opi nail polish (select stores or online at OPI | colorblock striped scarf $30, gap

cherry cupcakes

By Jo in food, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , ,

From my last post, I had cherries in syrup that were leftover – so I decided to make some cherry cupcakes.  I’m making everyday special by enjoying the little things, including baking a delicious recipe from my new cookbook Cake Days, by the Hummingbird Bakery.  In the recipe for the cherry cupcakes, the book calls for kirsch-soaked cherries, but since I had the leftover cherries in syrup I just substituted.  Email me if you would like the modified recipe!  These cupcakes are so worth not being able to do up the zipper on your favourite skinny jeans.

Look at that rich red, I love it.

In go the cherries to make the fluffy and delicious batter.

the buttery frosting…

Be careful when you add the cherries to the frosting, try to take out as much of the syrup as you can.

You can see that the frosting looks a little melted, but I could NOT wait to try one – so I iced it while it was still a little warm!  I’m so impatient, but I wanted one so bad!

stop stressing before you travel!

By Jo in real life, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , ,

Travelling can really make you feel anxious and a little stressed.  The airport line ups, the stern security guards, the piles of people looking lost – I used to be this way, I was nervous anytime I had to go anywhere.  After a while you stop seeing airports in this light, every time I’m in an airpot now i find it exciting, the line ups actually go quite fast, the stern security guards are just doing their jobs and are usually quite nice, and the piles of people looking lost usually look that way because they’re looking for their family, loved ones, or whatever.  Part of the travel stress that some people experience comes from what to pack in your carry on.

Are you someone who checks your bag or carries on?  I guess it depends on the length of the trip, but even if I’m not taking much – I’ll check my bag because I don’t want to have it with me while in the airport, and it allows me to zip through security, and be able to explore the airport without an annoying bag on wheels!  I always get the “what if it’s delayed?” question of concern.  The one time I had a mix up with luggage was (funny enough) the one time I chose to carry on.  We were in the Newark airport and the overhead bins in the plane were FULL so they had to take our carry-ons and check them anyway – which of course made them delayed.  Also, that’s were my handy little VISA platinum comes in.  I pay a fee annually for this card, but it comes with automatic travel insurance (including an allowance for you to use to buy necessities if your bag is delayed).

I see so many people that have loads of things in their carry on, and it looks so uncomfortable and disorganized – airports are like shopping malls, therefore if you are ever in NEED of anything, chances are, you can get it there.  With all that said,  I try to keep it light and simple so I can enjoy my airport experience, sipping on an americano misto, people watching, and blogging about it to you, my lovely readers.  Note:  I might do a “what to wear while traveling” post because it surely won’t include flannel pajama pants and an oversized Arizona State University t-shirt.  Let’s save the world one carry on and one outfit at a time!

xoxo

Jo

My passport, visa, iphone, and macbook are all my NEEDS when I travel.  I bring with me: baby lips lipgloss, a roll on perfume (I use Poppy by Royal Apothic), and the latest issue of Marie Claire (it has good articles that will pass the time), and don’t forget a pen, you need it if you travel internationally to fill out your customs card on the airplane!

 

Sprinkles, Scottsdale AZ

By Jo in food, Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , ,

We went to Sprinkles in Scottsdale and I had an amazing red velvet cupcake.  For me, a properly made red velvet cupcake indicates a great cupcake shop.  Anna had vanilla with sprinkles, of course and we were both so happy with our little afternoon sweet treat.  It’s no wonder that Sprinkles was voted America’s Best Cupcakes!  I read recently that the cupcake trend is “out”, which I think is so funny because I didn’t really think that good food can go out of style, if I ever hear someone say “I don’t want that cupcake because cupcakes are so 2008″, I think I’ll seriously start to be concerned about mankind.  I can understand that maybe they were overdone in terms of weddings, but who doesn’t love a delicious cupcake?  Anyway, I had a great time exploring Scottsdale and I am happy I was able to indulge at Sprinkles.

I love the minimal decor inside of the shop, it was very clean and well-represented.  The gals working there were just as sweet as the cupcakes we ordered, and informed us that they get one free cupcake every day, so cute! Surprisingly, all of them were tiny little things – I would instantly gain 5 to 10 lbs if I worked at a place like this!

I love these!  They are cupcake mixes in every popular flavour.  What a great gift idea, you can add a cute apron or a funky cupcake tray or pan, and there you have it – a sweetly themed present for the bakers in your circle.

Who wouldn’t want to receive one of these packages, so cute!

 

the plan for redecorating my bedroom

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , ,

While others are preparing for the holidays with gifts and shopping, I am thinking about doing a complete purge of my things and redecorating my bedroom.  I know this is what spring cleaning is for, but frankly I don’t want to wait for spring.  Here’s the inspiration, I am going to try and make my own feather art, and I love the glossy red night stand, but I will hunt for the perfect thrifted piece that I can paint.  So for now I will show you the plan, because this will be a work in progress.  I live by water, in an old character building, so it’s important for me to have a calm space with soft colours, especially since the spare room is FULL of all my clothes, shoes, and crafting supplies!  The blue and grey palette is exactly what I want, and I saw this amazing duvet cover on a post from Design Sponge.  Many of the things you see here are from West Elm, the lamp and the knob on the dresser are from Anthropologie, the floral throw pillow is from Urban Outfitters, and the Penguin Classics can be purchased an many different places, but they are the best price on Amazon.  What do you think of my plan?  Do I need anything else?  I love suggestions, so let me know!

just a little somethin’

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , , , , , , ,

I love these assorted zipper cases from West Elm.  They are such an affordable price and are a great gift idea for the gal on a budget!  Buy one of these for a girlfriend, and fill it with a couple of nail polishes, a set of pretty barrettes, a sweetly patterned nail file, and a pink hued blush from your local drug store and you have yourself an adorable gift under $40. Just fill with random things that you love, and want to share.  It’s thoughtful and feels like a treat bag for adults! In mine, I would include a small bottle of rosewater, some funky fab nail decals from the Japanese dollar store, and a pot of Burt’s Bees lip balm.  easy, peasy.

what made the list this year?

By Jo in Uncategorized 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I have to admit, I still make Christmas lists, and this year here is what made the cut!  Ok, I know what you’re thinking, these high-priced items make me look like a greedy little brat, but I always say that you don’t get what you want if you don’t ask!!!!  Am I right?  haha also these are good suggestions for a significant other to buy for you, but what do you REALLY want this year?  To be quite honest, I would be happy with delicious christmas treats and just being with family and friends, but if I HAD to make a Christmas list then this is what it would be, and we won’t mention the insignificant detail that this list has been sitting on my desktop since August.  Say what you will.1.Rebecca Minkoff studded clutch  2.  Le Creuset dutch oven 3.  Jeffrey Campbell booties

4. Diya earrings for Anthropologie by Ranjana Khan  5.  DeLonghi espresso maker

my new york faves

By Jo in Uncategorized No Comments Tags: , , ,

Farewell New York, it was so much fun as always.

Friends, if you’re planning to go visit the big apple, here’s what made my  ”overrated” list:

1.  TIMES SQUARE – extremely busy and touristy, it’s cool to see once – and that’s enough

2.  Carnegie Deli – the sandwiches are disgustingly big, and the entire place smells like lunch meat, gross.

3.  Macy’s – yes it’s big, yes it’s iconic, yes it’s basically Sears –  cheesy decor, and zero customer service.

ARTWORK BY HENNIE HAWORTH – find it here!

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