daniella marie

winter lull...

2012-02-21T22:12:00.009-05:00

Hi everyone, sorry for the lack of posting lately. I was battling a cold last week, and then the weekend brought some unexpected news. Needless to say, i've been a bit distracted. February is flying by, but Winter continues on, and i'm finding myself ready for brighter days, buds on the trees, and using a lot less washer fluid. I have half a roll of film in my camera, but finding it hard to get out there and shoot. It's that mid-winter lull... are you feeling it too?

Photos: My own, from film.

tea for two...

2012-02-15T20:56:00.006-05:00

A few weekends ago my Mother and I headed to a tea house for lunch in a nearby town. It was a little cramped in the tiny, "white house", but the tiers of treats, scones, and tiny sandwiches happily reminded me of my last few trips to Scotland. Although nothing compares to tea and scones with Granny, it's still fun to enjoy the afternoon ritual every once and a while. I have this secret wish to one day open up my own tea house, complete with sparkling chandeliers and the prettiest floral teacups... how fun would that be?

Photos: My own, from film. A little yellow from the indoor lighting though.

happy valentine's day...

2012-02-14T13:27:00.005-05:00

This year I had wanted to make these pretty paper heart strings that Erin from Reading My Tea Leaves had made (I also love these cookies and these little notes from her site), but unfortunately, I just didn't get around to it. Next year, I suppose!

Rick and I celebrated on the weekend, with a Valentine's dinner & dance at our wedding venue. Each year they put on a full event for every couple that's getting married that year, in place of individual taste testings. It was great to see how a full-out event worked, the service, and how the night would unfold. We also made roast chicken and potatoes on Saturday night, and spent quite a few hours watching True Blood episodes (very romantic eh? ha!). Rick was scheduled to work this evening, so I might enjoy a cup of tea and a valentine's cupcake to myself... we'll see.

Hope you're all having a lovely Valentine's Day!

Photo: Erin of Reading My Tea Leaves

ruby red...

2012-02-13T07:00:00.005-05:00

Lately i've been having grapefruit almost every morning. The sweet, citrus fruit has been so good these past few weeks that's it's hard not to crave it. I love cutting each segment away from it's skin, but then squeeze whatever juice is left out of each peel into the bowl. Makes for a nice "cup" of grapefruit juice afterwards.

What's on your breakfast menu lately?

Photo: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.16}...

2012-02-08T14:17:00.019-05:00

A few weeks ago I went to visit my friend Amanda to talk about letterpress printing my save-the-dates and wedding invitations (insert high-pitched squeal of delight here!). Amanda has a new studio called Silverplate Press where she's been printing some beautiful pieces from polymer plates, wood and lead type. I've always wanted to have my wedding invitations letterpress printed, so to be able to have a friend do that for us, makes it all the more special. There's just something about that soft, thick paper and the feeling of the pressed design that's so wonderful. Plus, all the work that goes into it!

As I snapped some pictures, we had tea with our friend Sandi, talked paper and ink colours, and did a few fun prints without ink. The type isn't set up how she'd normally do it, but it was just a quick test so I could see how it all works. I even had a go at the giant paper cutter, that can slice through a phonebook with barely any effort at all. Smooth and straight!

I'm looking forward to sending our family and friends the final results, and i'll be sure to share a sneak peek here as well. Who knew that 9 years after meeting in college, Amanda would be printing my wedding invitations? So great how things turn out...

P.S. How cute is her cat, Sushi?

Photos: My own, from film

evening sky...

2012-02-03T19:40:00.000-05:00

The days are getting longer, and the evening sky, brighter... it's nice not to leave work in darkness anymore.

Photo: My own, from film

for the love of film {no.8}...

2012-02-02T00:37:00.010-05:00

I first came across Holly Cromer's beautiful work after I received a note from her, that she was enjoying the film series just as much as I am! I was so glad Holly told me about her own photography work, as her film photos are gorgeous, capturing every little detail with the perfect amount of grain. Check out Holly's interview below, and be sure to pop by her site and flickr page too...

First off, what do you love the most about film photography?

What I love most about film, is the same thing I hate most about film when I get a bad set of prints back, you don't really know what you are going to get back when it develops. I have had light leaks that made boring pictures look gorgeous and photos that I thought were going to turn out stellar that have come back completely out of focus with a bad multiple exposure. I also love that using film makes me spend extra time making sure that photos are composed better because I don't want to waste a single frame.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I have a 35mm Holga which I rarely use anymore. My go-to camera is the Canon Elan IIe, I love being able to share my lenses between my film SLR and DSLR. For film, I'm not really very choosy. A couple years ago I bought a huge box of expired Kodak 400 film that I have been working my way through. I want to try some of the Lomography films next and I have a roll of Revolog Tesla film that I've been saving for the perfect occasion.

What would you say inspires your style the most?

I'm not exactly sure what I would say inspires my style most, I always shoot wide open looking for ugly things to try to depict in a beautiful way, and of course pretty things to make look even dreamier. I've always been a collector of sorts, now I collect things as images instead of actually physically acquiring them so I can share with others.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

I've never really been one to follow the rules. I only even remember a couple of the rules of photography from when I took a class almost 10 years ago. I do keep the rule of thirds in mind, but I don't follow it unless it gives me an interesting focal point.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

I still think of myself as a beginner most of the time (maybe I always will, it seems like there is no limit on what you can do or learn with photography). I think it's a good idea to take a notebook with you everywhere you go to write down ideas you might have for photos. When you add photos as your favorites on other sites really think about what it is that you like about the image then put it in your notebook. Read photography books, I can't finish a fiction piece anymore no matter how hard I try, but I can read a photography book cover to cover in one day. I just want to know it all!

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

I've fallen madly in love with the work of Davis Ayer recently. I follow so many amazing photographers on Flickr that it's really hard to choose. As far as wedding photography on film goes, Jose Villa and Elizabeth Messina never cease to amaze me.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

Honestly, I have hardly traveled out of the state of Virginia in the past three years so just about anywhere sounds good. Right now I have four locations on my "wish list" to visit: Cape Cod, road trip across California, Florida Keys, and New York. And just about anywhere out of the country would surely knock my socks off (like maybe backpacking across Europe). For subjects to photograph, just a variety of portraits of people from all different walks of life plus whatever lovely tiny details I might pass along the way.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?
This one has been my favorite since I got the prints back from the lab: I have a huge framed print of it in my home, however it is not very popular with other folks. I was using a one-use underwater camera and can hardly open my eyes under the water so it is a miracle that it turned out so beautifully.

Dear Readers: Are there any burning questions you have about film photography? Send me a note, as i'd like to add a couple different questions for each interview! Also, if you shoot a lot of film photography or know of someone who's work you admire, please do let me know! I'm always looking for more people to feature for the series.

Photos: Holly Cromer, from film

snacking...

2012-02-01T20:53:00.014-05:00

One of the things i've been continuing from the Whole Living Action Plan, is having healthy snacks on hand at work. It stops those 3pm visits to the vending machine (who are we kidding with those "baked chips"?) and helps to make much better decisions when it comes to dinner plans. Seems like an obvious thing to do, but I just wasn't planning well enough ahead of time to make sure I always have some good, non-processed food with me.

Lately I've been bringing a lot of fruit... pears, grapefruit, oranges, apples, bananas, and other things like raisins, oatmeal, celery with organic peanut butter, and a nut mix. The nut mix is really easy and there's so many ways to mix it up. Just gather a bunch of your favourite nuts and toast them in the oven for about 10-15 mins at 350˚ (just keep an eye on them). I usually add some raisins after, and next time I think i'll add a little 70% dark chocolate. Much better mix than the salty, store-bought kinds!

What are your favourite healthy snacks?

Photo: My own, from film.

bursts of spring...

2012-01-31T21:56:00.008-05:00

Snowing one day, +6 the next... our Winter weather has been pretty unpredictable so far. I keep mentioning it, but it's so odd for our January. The bursts of Spring sure are lovely though. It was so nice to enjoy a little sunshine today!

Yesterday on a chilly walk I came across a bucket of bird seed along the trail. After spilling a few handfuls in the snow, there was little tweeting birds, including a blue jay and a cardinal ducking in and out of the bushes, and two little squirrels with curious, sniffing noses – beyond cute. Standing especially still, they came within a couple feet, looking me up and down every time they took a few steps. I wouldn't trust the tall, looming figure with a fur (fake) trimmed hood either...

Photos: My own, from film

a wonderful read...

2012-01-25T22:22:00.007-05:00

Lately i've been reading (and re-reading) the second volume of Kinfolk. I'm completely obsessed. There's something so comforting and engaging about the mag. Every time I flip through its pages I want to run away to a cabin somewhere, where I can enjoy nature, good food, and a quiet cup of tea, focus on de-cluttering life and simplifying things. There's so much beauty in the basics and I love how Kinfolk elegantly reminds us of that. I can barely wait for volume 3... you?

Photo: My own, from film.

rain & snow...

2012-01-24T21:13:00.003-05:00

After a few rainy days we're back to snow, with a thin blanket of white covering the ground. I feel bad for the few flocks of geese still hanging out in the icy river near work... with all this up and down weather I wonder if they decided stay or are too confused to leave. I have to admit though, I don't mind the mild temperatures!

Can you believe it's almost the end of January already?

Photos: My own, from film.

sunday afternoon...

2012-01-22T14:37:00.003-05:00

Sunday afternoon. Tea + thoughts of change...

Photo: My own, from film.

wedding wednes... err, thursday {no.15}...

2012-01-19T17:43:00.002-05:00

So I know it's not Wednesday anymore, but I still thought i'd share a wedding update. It's much different being in 2012 now, knowing that by next New Year's Eve we'll be married! It gets more exciting, the more I think about it.

Last weekend my Mother and I headed out to shop for her dress for the day, only to be disappointed by the amount of awful styles that some stores call Mother-of-the-Bride "suits", lol. I mean, why are companies still making shoulder pads? You'd think by now there'd be more modern choices. After looking through a few racks though we found a pretty light blue dress and jacket, with a nice ruffle detail, but there's always the option of looking into some non-bridal shops too. We also spent the day looking around some boutique shops in town, and had lunch at a great British pub called The Royal Coachman. Soup and sweet potatoes was perfect!

In the meantime, shower dates have been chosen, our Save-the-Date is in the works, and a Saturday in February is booked for bridesmaid dress shopping and a bit of girly fun... I can't wait!

Photos: My own, from film.

home made pesto...

2012-01-19T13:11:00.006-05:00

Since i've been avoiding processed foods since the beginning of the year, i've been trying to gather recipes for basic things I can make on my own and continue throughout the year (this ketchup one looks great). I haven't had any whole wheat or cheese yet, but i'd love to make this pesto with a little more oil to go with roasted red pepper dip and a nice bread for dipping. Suddenly I also want that chopper and a huge wooden cutting board too. On a snowy evening when it's dark and chilly outdoors, spending the time to chop up basic ingredients in a warm, quiet kitchen seems quite nice, doesn't it?

Video: Tiger in a Jar for Kinfolk, recipe by Heidi Swanson, 101 Cookbooks (whose blog is great btw...)

for the love of film {no.7}...

2012-01-17T10:04:00.011-05:00

Today i'm happy to feature Suzie from Black-eyed Angel. Suzie and I "met" when she sent me an email about the series, and I realized I had just been looking through her blog after a Amanda had mentioned her during my Shoot by Design course. I just knew Suzie had to take part in the series! I love her attention to detail, and especially admire the photos from her "Back to the Old House" set (some above). Check out her interview below, and be sure to pop by her site as well...

First off, what do you love the most about film photography?

I love the luminosity, the tones and texture it creates, and I love the actual picture making process. It slows you down and makes you have to really learn a skill. As an artist it is one of the many media I use to express myself and I enjoy experimenting. It feels so much more a real way of photography and when I develop my own black and white photography, I'm in heaven.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I'm a cameraholic and have far too many, but my never-to-part with cameras are Yashica TL Electro and an ME-35, an Olympus OM10, a Praktica and my absolute favorite, a Pentax Spotmatic. Searching out the perfect film/camera combination is an ongoing adventure I hope I will never stop having. Right now I'm crazy about Rollei Retro B&W film.

What would you say inspires your style the most?

The moment. I rarely plan anything. I guess because my other forms of art tend to be considered and careful, I love to be a bit chaotic and throw caution to the wind with my photography!

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

Rules are made to be broken. If you have a basic understanding of light and how your camera works it becomes intuitive. Besides, the "mistakes" often make for the best shots and experimentation is part of the fun.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Practise, practise, practise! Shoot film as often as you can, take the time to hone your skills. Try to seek the extraordinary in the ordinary. Also, shooting in a series is great discipline, perhaps as an ongoing project for a long time. For instance, I seek out carousels wherever I go and I have an ongoing artist's studios project that I love to do.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

William Eggleston, Jonathan Levitt, Ernst Haas, Benedetta Falugi, Jack Radcliffe, Tiphaine C, Kumi Oguro..... so, so many I've left out and I keep finding new ones too.....

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

I don't think I have one, that would require too much planning. I am happy to see where I go and the opportunities as they present themselves.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?

Impossible to choose just one, but right now I love this one of my daughter, completely captivated. But if you ask me again next week, it will be something else!

Photos: Suzie Chaney

in the details...

2012-01-17T00:23:00.005-05:00

Even though it's heavy in my purse, and about as non-discreet as cameras can get nowadays, one of the things I love about bringing my camera along with me, is that I really look at the details of my surroundings. I tend to make a mental note to look around and see what beauty I can capture. It might also be considered distracting at times, but I love when I don't have to say, "Man, I really wish I had my camera with me!"

This is a ceiling moulding around a beautiful antique light in a shop my Mother and I visited on the weekend (more on that later). I love the craftsmanship and the amount of time it would have taken to create that much detail (assuming its an older piece). Stuff like this just doesn't exist these days (Can you say generic light cover? Awful).

Photo: My own, from film.

so far, so good...

2012-01-10T21:28:00.006-05:00

Since the beginning of the new year i've been following along with the Whole Living Action Plan, eating only fruits and veggies, and a lot of water with lemon. So far, it's been going pretty well! I've found it's nice to take the time to make delicious smoothies in the morning, lunch for the day, and healthy dinners in the evening. In fact, really, it's shocking that i've even up in the morning to make anything at all, lol. I'm a terrible morning person usually, but it's been a little bit easier lately. Slowing things down, exercising each day, and getting to bed on time has made a big difference. I've been watching a little less tv, and blogging a little less frequently (I hope you don't mind...), and it all seems to be a nice change. The Action Plan runs for 28 days, but I hope I can make some of these new habits more permanent ones.

How's your new year going so far?

Photo: My own, from film.

from my window...

2012-01-05T23:01:00.011-05:00

Lately there's been a range of weather, from -15˚C (brrrr...) to above 0˚ with fog. A little odd for January I think. One snowy day last week, I snapped these photos of the rooftops below. I kind of love the eerie haze the fog gave them. That huge tree on the left though, and centered in the pic below... gone. Condo developers cut it down the very next day. I'm glad I took these shots when I did...

Photos: My own, from film.

for the love of film {no.6}...

2012-01-04T13:13:00.014-05:00

Kicking off a brand new year, i'm excited to feature Toi of Aprons & Birds today. Toi always captures these soft, dreamy photos with her film photography, that just makes you want to pick up your camera and start shooting as well. I love the grain in her photos and a lot of her yummy looking food snapshots too. Needless to say it was hard to pick my favs! Check out Toi's answers to my questions below, and be sure to stop by her blog too... enjoy!

First off, what do you love the most about film photography?

There's so much to love about film photography. I love the grain, I love that it forces you to think whether it's worth it or not before taking a picture, I adore rewinding the film rolls. But what I love the most is when, a few days after, I go the the lab, open the envelope and find pictures of all these things I had forgotten. I smile every time.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I almost always shoot with a Nikon FM10. I love it, we've known each other for years. I also have a Zenit ET, but it's way to heavy for me to carry around all the time. Right now I'm shooting mostly with Lucky film, it's cheap and the tones are lovely.

What would you say inspires your style the most?

Most of my inspiration comes from everyday life and the things that surround me. Simple, ordinary moments that often go unnoticed or overlooked. The changing of the seasons, nature in all its forms. The books I read, too. And, of course, light.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

Always search for light and try to avoid shooting over f/5.6, those are my only two rules.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Always carry a camera with you, play with your camera and experiment with all the film brands you can get your hands on. You need to try different things to see what you really like. And never forget that when shooting with film we only get a certain amount of photographs per roll. Watch with your eyes and your mind, open yourself up and see the world around you. After sometime you'll just feel it, that perfect moment to capture on film.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

Sally Mann, definitely. And Andrei Tarkovsky's polaroids, too, I love them.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

I love trees and mountains and sadly live too afar, so probably that would be my dream location. The forests in Norway and Oregon, the mystical mountains of China and Japan, the cliffs in Ireland, all of Iceland and my beloved Andes Mountains. I tend to dream a lot.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?

Oh, they change almost every day! Right now I'd have to say this one:

I miss the mountains so much.

Thank you so much for participating Toi! I'd LOVE to shoot the forests out West as well.

happy new year!

2012-01-01T22:29:00.007-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful New Year's Eve. Rick and I celebrated by having dinner out, followed by a champagne toast and a kiss at midnight. It was perfect just the two of us.

This year we have so much to look forward to... getting married on September 29th (!) and all the fun events leading up to it, looking for and moving into our new home, witnessing good friends getting married, and congratulating another on having their first baby. It may be cliché to say, but this year is going to be a good one!

While some people may be adverse to New Year's resolutions, I actually really like the idea. There's something so inspiring about the new year and a fresh start. I don't think resolutions have to be detailed promises with strict deadlines though, but rather just something important to you that you're doing for yourself. This year I will be taking part in the Whole Living 28-Day Action Plan. It's an annual mind-body detox that I just love doing each year. Rather than a "juice cleanse" or "going on a diet", it's much more holistic and focuses on nourishing your body and just really just taking care of yourself. I needed this little push, so i'm excited for it to start tomorrow. If it sounds like something you'd also be interested in, you can read more here and sign up for WL's Daily Challenge emails.

If you made any, what are your New Year's resolutions? I love to hear about them...

Photo: My own, from film.

the best part...

2011-12-30T19:53:00.003-05:00

Even though I had my fair share of turkey dinner (and leftovers), I still kind of want some more Christmas dinner tonight. It's just so good! Turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables, stuffing, cranberry sauce, fresh bread and butter... all the classics totally worth indulging in.

What are some of your traditional dishes for Christmas?

Photos: My own, from film.

cinnamon swirl...

2011-12-30T18:50:00.004-05:00

Cinnamon. Sugar. Dough. Such a great Christmas treat...

Photo: My own, from film.

home for the holidays...

2011-12-28T21:50:00.021-05:00

And with a flash... Christmas has come and gone. Can you believe it? I wish it had lasted a little longer, but there was plenty of relaxing, sweet treats, and delicious dinners enjoyed with family and friends. My parents house twinkled with colourful lights, vintage ornaments, and gifts wrapped under the tree. We opened everything Christmas Eve, and just relaxed the next morning... with cinnamon buns being the perfect Christmas breakfast. The new year coming up is going to be a big one, with so much to look forward to and new traditions to begin. I'm excited to get 2012 started...

How was your Christmas? Did you do anything special?

*Also, happy to share today that Jay is the winner of the Grain & Silk calendar giveaway. Thanks so much to everyone who entered. Stay tuned for more "For the Love of Film" posts in the new year.

Photos: My own, from film.

have a very merry christmas...

2011-12-22T12:28:00.010-05:00

It took me up until 3 days before Christmas, but i'm officially excited. I can't wait to have some time off and celebrate the holiday with family and friends. Christmas Eve will bring dinner at a friend of the family's, Christmas Day eating lots of yummy food, and then dessert that evening with Rick's family. After Christmas, it's an annual meetup with my best friend including spinach dip and exchanging gifts. I'm hoping those 4 days off feel like a really, reeeally long weekend.

I took these photos last time I was at my parents house. Can't wait to get back and add some more gifts under such a colourful tree. I plan on taking a lot of Christmasy photos as well... so hope you're still in the holiday mood up until New Year's, lol.

I hope you all have a great time celebrating over the next few days. Stay warm, eat some good food and enjoy some tea or cocoa! Also, thank you for joining me this year on my new blog. I'm really liking the direction it's headed in, as well as posting more of my own photos. It's been much more creative and personal, and i'm glad I made the switch. Have a good one!

A favourite holiday tune lately (here)...

Photos: My own, from film.

P.S. Don't forget to enter Katarina's 2012 Grain & Silk calendar giveaway! I will be drawing a winner after Christmas.

tree farm...

2011-12-21T00:24:00.007-05:00

I can hardly believe Christmas is this weekend. It came up so incredibly fast!

I thought i'd share a few more photos from my trip to the tree farm a few weeks ago, before the holiday completely passes by. I'm sure most people have trimmed their trees by now, fake or real. I finally brought up a mini tree of mine with twinkling lights for the loft. The extra little sparkle at night definitely adds a nice cozy element to my space.

Over the lunch hour today I went for a walk in the forest and finally clipped some winter greenery... pine, winter berries, fallen twigs and pinecones... all for wrapping Christmas gifts with kraft paper and twine. I can't wait to get started!

How are you wrapping gifts this year?

Photos: My own, from film

for the love of film {no.5} + a giveaway...

2011-12-20T01:00:00.007-05:00

Today I'm happy to be featuring Katarina from Grain & Silk for this week's For the Love of Film. Katarina's photography always has such beautiful texture, while completely capturing nature's essence. I especially love the grain in her photos.

Below are Katarina's answers to my questions... be sure to pop by her blog and read below for a special giveaway.

First off, what do you love the most about film photography?

I think for me it'll always have a bit more magic. There are tones and subtle details I'm struggling to get with my digital camera (even after a few modifications and tweaks of the camera). Maybe after a lot of processing... but that seems like a waste of precious time and lot less fun, when I already know precisely what I want, and how to get it. But that's just me - it's what I found works for me best.

I have this little obsession too, with getting new rolls of film - it's like unwrapping a pack of sweets each time I open that 120 mm film pack. It's little Christmas, including getting the results, there is always something unexpected waiting for you, small and big surprises, beautiful imperfections that make my heart jump with joy.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I love my Mamiya C330 - it's a twin reflex I got at a flea market in a small English town - the advance lever is missing, it's heavy, but it creates beauty. For my 35mm shots I use a Nikon FM2. I also have a Polaroid SX-70 camera which I now use with Impossible Project's films, and a Polaroid land camera.

What would you say inspires your style the most?

It's very intuitive and spontaneous. With portraits I'm always inspired by the person itself, when we start talking during the shoot, their gestures, style, the way they express themselves. Then the surroundings, atmosphere, their spaces and lives and mine, little moments, emotions, colours, light, things I want to remember. Childhood memories, films and books, too.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

It depends on the situation, sometimes I plan basic things like location, sometimes it just happens. I don't think I have any rules - except I try not to repeat myself too much, which I don't always manage, as I'll be drawn to certain subjects and themes over and over again I guess.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Passion, practice and patience :) Learn to understand the light and your camera, experiment.
Connect with people who are at the same stage of learning, as well as with those who can give you some guidance.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

Keith Carter, Eva Bertram, Francesca Woodman, Vicky Slater... just to name a few.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

About thousand places come to mind with this question... but probably somewhere with mountains, lot of water and gorgeous light. There are quite a few people I'd like to take portraits of too. I'd love to learn how to approach strangers on the streets with a camera and without freaking them out. I see so many interesting faces that tell stories, every day.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?

I don't think I've taken that one yet, but this one I like a lot...

Katarina has also generously offered one lucky reader a 2012 Grain & Silk calendar! You can either choose one the calendars from the Grain & Silk Etsy shop or pick your own photos from her flickr, blog, and Etsy site for a totally custom calendar!

Enter by leaving a comment below, and if you'd like an extra entry you can "Like" the Grain & Silk Facebook page, and leave an extra comment below. Good luck! A winner will be chosen next Tuesday, the 27th, just after Christmas. And thank you Katarina!

Photos: Katarina of Grain & Silk, 1 & 8 digital, all others from film. That rose is too pretty to not include!

sunday night...

2011-12-18T18:47:00.009-05:00

Sunday nights are always so bittersweet. It's relaxing and calm, as we wait for our rosemary chicken and potatoes to roast in the oven, but I hate knowing i'll be up early tomorrow morning. For now, we're burning 'fireside' and 'marshmallow' candles together (smells amazing), and drinking a little Baileys with heart-shaped ice. Ahh Sunday...

How was your weekend?

Photo: My own, from film.

cookie exchange...

2011-12-16T00:07:00.011-05:00

This past weekend and few friends and I decided to get together for a little Christmas visit with our guys. We decided to have a cookie exchange, and I knew I had to make my favourite Christmas cookie – whipped shortbread. Soft and fluffy, I much prefer this shortbread to the denser classic kind (although I wouldn't pass up a piece of that either). The best part though... they are beyond easy to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time.

Whipped Shortbread

1 cup of softened butter (not melted)

1 & 1/2 cups of flour

1/2 a cup of icing sugar

Blend all the ingredients together, then form small drops of batter by hand and place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten the tops a little to hold some sprinkles, then bake at 350˚F for 15 mins, until edges look lightly golden brown. Enjoy!

...

I made a few batches for our party and headed to Sandi's place to find peanut butter bacon cookies (yes, you read that right, lol), lemon cookies (yummy Amanda!), crushed candycane chocolate cookies, and little peanut butter ones topped with chocolate rosebuds... so good!

Do you ever participate in a Christmas cookie exchange? I'd love to know your favourite kinds.

Photos: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.14}...

2011-12-14T23:59:00.002-05:00

Lately planning for our wedding has slowed down a bit. A lot has been booked, so we're happily ahead of schedule, which is nice. I've had people ask how the wedding plans are going so far, with an unintentional "It must be so much work" look, but it's been pretty great so far! I think if you both know what you want and if you start planning early, it's actually really enjoyable. As it should be! We hit a bit of an issue with the number of people on our guest list... a typical problem for many i'm sure, but it's all been worked out and now we just wait till the new year before having to really do anything else. It hit me yesterday though, that soon it will be 2012. Rick and I got engaged this past May and I just can't believe how time has flown by! I'm so glad i've been documenting the process here on the blog.

With that said, there is one thing I do need to start working on – our save-the-date cards. Being a graphic designer I think this part, the stationery, is practically harder than finding the dress. I've been going back and forth with a lot of ideas... Do I want to incorporate colour? Should I go with a more detailed, "flourishy" design or keep it simple? What paper should I use? What kind of envelopes? What fonts? etc... etc... the list goes on. The only I do know for sure is that the set will be letterpress printed. I think because I'm a designer that I think people will expect something spectacular, which is probably unnecessary pressure to put on myself. Simple and classic is my thing, and I think if I just stick to what I love, I hope i'll be able to figure out the rest. Now I just need to sit down and actually do it... yikes.

Photo: Lorena Arance

for the love of film {no.4}...

2011-12-14T21:46:00.015-05:00

This week i'm super excited to feature Amanda Gilligan of Mocking Bird blog. I just finished taking Amanda's Shoot by Design photography course and it was completely inspiring! I've learned so much, including how to keep working on developing my style and how to stay inspired. If you're looking to take a photography course I highly recommend it, as it's the perfect mix of creativity and the "technical stuff"...

Amanda's photography is so beautiful, always telling a story and capturing such perfect moments. It was so hard to pick my favs! Read her answers below and be sure to pop by her blog and flickr site for more...

What do you love the most about film photography?

I mostly love the way it looks and I do because to me it feels more artistic, more like a painting, more like magic... what I can create with film just feels more like what I see in my head. It helps me to tell a story the way I want to tell it. I love that you never know what you're going to get and that often there are magical little accidents that make my images a little messy and a little less than perfect. I'm not a perfect kind of girl, so film suits me fine.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I use a Nikon FM3A, Polaroid Sx70, Polaroid SLR680, Yashica FX3 and Yashicamat 124. For Polaroid I use Polaroid 600 and Impossible Project PX680 and PX600. My film of choice is Kodak Portra 400.

Your photos are so soft and dreamy, while each telling a story. What inspires your style the most?

I'm inspired by nature and light. I love all the textures, tones, colours and softness of the sea, forests and the environments around me. I am very fortunate that I grew up and lived in beautiful Australia where the light is always warm and the ocean so blue. And I now live in gorgeous British Columbia where the forests are green and full of glorious pine trees and there are snow capped mountains at every angle.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

My mind thinks about light and composition first and foremost. I look for the perfect light or as my partner calls it, "Amanda light". He spots it for me now too. I know all the photography rules that I trust and that are ingrained in my mind, but I don't always stick to them. Art is about breaking the rules. As long as the composition is strong and tells a story, I'm happy.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Shoot as often as you can. Wanting and doing are too completely separate things. You need to just get out there and shoot every day. And believe in yourself. Believe that you have something important and original to say. You are the only one who can tell your story.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

Mikkel Vang, Osamu Yokonami, Anton Corbijn, Aya Brackett, Jose Villa, Elizabeth Messina, Ditte Isager. And I'm constantly inspired by peers and friends.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

Clichéd it may be, but I've been dreaming of wandering around Paris with my cameras for as long as I can remember. Polaroids and Paris sounds kinda perfect to me. Japan is second on my list. I just want to spend a good month there exploring the culture and photographing the people.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?

I'm still working on that but I always cherish the shots I take of my sister.

Thanks Amanda! I especially love your tip to get out and shoot every day, so true!

Photos: Amanda Gilligan

natural decor...

2011-12-12T15:16:00.005-05:00

I love this idea from Kinfolk for a little natural decor instead of glitz and glam for the holidays. I'm definitely feeling this look more and more each year, getting back to a more nostalgic Christmas I guess you could say. I really want to go and gather some pretty winter greenery now, but I might have to wait until I can take a hike through a forest path... I feel like if I start clipping in the park, people might not be so impressed. Ahh the joy of living out in the country (something I keep thinking about lately)... it'd be way easier to decorate then!

More pics here...

Photo: Tim Robinson, Styling: Adelaide Brown via Kinfolk Journal

snail mail...

2011-12-12T00:06:00.011-05:00

Over the weekend I finally finished addressing all my holiday cards... well, postcards rather. I had been looking for the perfect card to send out, kicking myself for not ordering Rifle Paper Co. cards earlier in the season (I am obsessed), but then out of nowhere I came across a few packs of these Happy Holidays postcards by Rifle Paper Co., just sitting by themselves on the shelf of a bookstore. Fate? I think so! I love that this time of year brings all kinds of "snail mail"... so much fun to send and receive.

Do you mail out holiday cards?

Photos: My own, from film.

P.S. I just realized my post sounds like I found and took someone's cards, hahaha...

the store was selling these, I found out where the rest were stocked afterwards.

a simple box...

2011-12-07T21:59:00.006-05:00

With the holidays coming up I was reminded about how kids always seem to love the cardboard box more than the shiny, new toy that came in it. Apparently for Miley it's the same, lol. She's been playing with the same cardboard box for the past three weeks straight, taking running starts from across the room and jumping in head first – literally nose-diving. She she then sits in it and stares at me. I'm not sure if she finds it comfortable or if she thinks I can't see her, either way her obsession is a pretty hilarious, and I couldn't help but snap some pics...

Photos: My own, from film

P.S. The film series and wedding wednesday will be back next week!

a moment...

2011-12-07T01:47:00.008-05:00

You know that moment when you realize Fall is almost over, Winter is creeping in despite its official start date on the calendar, and you look up to see the moon and the nearly setting sun both in sky at the same time? This was one of those moments. See the tiny spec of white, up top, just beside the cloud? That's the moon, around 4pm. It was much more of an impressive, crisp, crescent shape in real life... but I love that it at least showed up on film, and what looks like a spec of cloud to some people, I know it was the moon while the sun was still up. Kind of neat...

Photo: My own, from film.

from the weekend...

2011-12-05T22:17:00.010-05:00

Last Friday I took the day off and refrained from the digital world... besides a few instagram photos from the snowy morning, and then the sunny afternoon, it was nice to "unplug" for a bit.

I did a little exercising, made some home-cooked meals, and spent the afternoon shooting some film at a local tree farm. The scent of pine in the air was just wonderful and the light was perfect... just an hour or so before setting. It was fun to take a peek around and see a few families here and there excitedly cutting down their tree. I can't wait for Rick and I to cut down our own tree next Christmas. I think that's going to be a really fun "first", so I decided to wait and didn't pick up a small one for myself. I might do something different like gathered branches with sparkly mini ornaments... we'll see.

Photos: My own, from film

december...

2011-12-01T10:41:00.012-05:00

Can you believe it's officially December 1st?

While i'm not really finding myself into the Christmas spirit quite yet, I have started to think about how I want to trim the tree this year and purchased some pretty Rifle Paper Co. postcards to send out to family and friends. I need to sit down and make my Christmas to-do list including what gifts to buy early and having a special night of wrapping, drinking peppermint hot chocolate and baking cookies, listening to some classic holiday tunes, and just relaxing indoors watching the snow swirl down from my window. This year i'm thinking about getting a mini, but real tree, as opposed to putting up my fake one. (Did you know that it's actually better for the environment to buy a real tree each year, rather than a using the same plastic one? That's even if you use your fake one for a few years in a row.) I really want to scent of pine to fill the air in my loft, as well as use more natural decor this year.

For a little holiday spirit here on the blog though, I was hoping to continue a tradition of something from my old blog, but i'm having some technical issues :( Hopefully I can figure it out, if not, well... let's pretend I never mentioned it, lol.

UPDATE: It's working! It's now snowing on the blog... Happy Holidays!

Are you prepping for the holidays already?

P.S. Don't you just want to inhale those chocolate chip cookies?

Photos: by Sarah Jane - Lovely Ember Photography, Mariana Powell - Nica Mom

wedding wednesday {no.13}...

2011-11-30T21:44:00.010-05:00

A few Sundays ago I decided to have a trial run for make-up. I wasn't too keen on a lot of the make-up artists work that i'd seen so far... i'm very light and natural with my day-to-day look, using only mineral powder, blush, and mascara, so all the heavy layered-on looks just aren't my thing. I can have a bit of a dark under-eye though, so I was really hoping to work with a professional to brighten my eyes for the day!

To avoid a heavy layer of foundation we tried out a light layer using airbrushing. Has anyone ever tried this before? It was a little awkward at first. I felt like I couldn't inhale through my nose, just in case I breathed in make-up, lol, but the final result was nice. Plus, it felt like I wasn't wearing any make-up at all. With a little extra concealer under my eye, it all blended in really well. We also tried out fake lashes, just so I could see what they'd look like, but they're definitely not for me. No matter how perfect she lined my top lid I still felt like I could see the edge of them. I'm too much of a perfectionist to not have them completely blend in.

In the end a light layer of foundation, a little blush, mascara and some charcoal liner looked best. I'm kind of excited now to get all "dolled up" for the big day now. A hair trial is definitely in the future as well...

For those of you already married, did you have your make-up professionally done for the day? Any tips?

Photo: Hannah Michelle

for the love of film {no.3}...

2011-11-29T10:00:00.004-05:00

Off to a slow start this week. I had plans for some other film "photoshoots" but the rainy weather decided otherwise... so jumping right in this Tuesday with a new "For the Love of Film" feature...

Azzari from The Sweet Light, definitely knows how to use light to her advantage. Her photos capture the simplest of moments in such a beautiful way. I love when a photographer can turn an inanimate object into an intriguing story. Be sure to check out her blog and her portfolio site called, Gabrielle Kai Photography, for plenty more gorgeous photos. It was hard to choose!

First off, what do you love the most about film photography?

I love the grain, the mood, and the authenticity of film. I feel like each image tells a story. The thing I love the most is how light is captured on film - for me, there is no digital substitute. I love the aspect of “you never know what you are going to get”. There’s always that possibility with film, and I love it. Film photography embodies the true essence of the art.

What kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I use a manual Pentax K1000 film camera. My favorite film is Kodak Ektar 100 and Kodak Portra 400nc - which unfortunately, has been discontinued. I also use a Polaroid 680 Land camera, and Fuji Instax.

Your photos capture such beautiful elements that tell a much larger story. There's a real connection with each shot. What inspires your style the most?

I love knowing that the pictures I capture will live on much longer than me. I enjoy the fact that I’m not capturing what’s there, I’m capturing what I see – my perspective, my vision.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

No rules – just light. I’m always in search of it.

There’s a quote by George Eastman that that I try to embrace in my work –

“Light makes photography. Embrace light. Admire it. Love it.
But above all, know light.
Know it for all you are worth,
And you will know the key to photography.”

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Take photos everyday. Bring your camera with you. Shoot what feels right. Don’t be afraid to express yourself.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

I’d love capture more of Europe on film.

And lastly, do you have a favourite photo you've shot so far?

Definitely this photo – taken with my very first roll of film. The mood, the grain, the light – captured exactly how I felt at this moment.

Thanks so much for participating Azzari! I love the quote about light... so true!

Photos: By Azzari of The Sweet Light

chilled quinoa salad...

2011-11-24T10:30:00.003-05:00

Quinoa wasn't exactly on my list of favourite "grains" (it's really more of seed). I've tried it in stir-fries used instead of rice, and plain with paired with flavourful chicken, but i've never really liked it... until I tried it cold, that is.

A friend of mine made this delicious quinoa salad with apple, pecans, cranberries and red onion for a girls night and i'm definitely a fan! It's light for lunch, but satisfying enough to help you last until dinner, due to it's high protein content. I highly recommend giving it a try, as it's quick and easy to make.

Remember though, quinoa has a bitter-tasting coating, so be sure to rinse well, even if the box says pre-rinsed. I use a fine sieve and rinse for about 2 - 3 minutes in cool water before cooking.

Apple, Pecan, & Cranberry Quinoa Salad

1 package of plain quinoa (cooked, as per the instructions on the box)
1 cup of dried cranberries
1 green apple
1 handful of pecan pieces
1/2 or 1 cup of red onions (depending on your taste)
2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (I used a little less)
1 tablespoon of maple syrup

Chop up all the ingredients into small pieces and add to cooked quinoa. Stir ingredients while adding the olive oil, vinegar and syrup. Let cool slightly before covering and placing in the fridge. Serve chilled. Enjoy!

Photos: My own, from film.

coffee & magazines...

2011-11-23T13:00:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend Rick and I grabbed some coffee and perused the magazines, as I shot some photos for Amanda's Shoot by Design course. I was hoping for more natural light, but it turned out to be a rather dull day, hence the yellowish hue from overhead fluorescents. I like the cozy factor that transferred well to film though.

The other day the cashier at Chapters (bookstore) asked if I had a rewards card, and then said "Oh you probably have one, I see you here all the time." Not sure if it's a good thing, but a coffee and books addiction is fine by me. I mean, it's practically necessary during the Winter time, don't you think?

Photos: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.12}...

2011-11-23T06:00:00.008-05:00

For this week's Wedding Wednesday I had to share that I've happily found and booked our videographer! I'd been having the hardest time ever finding someone we liked. A lot of wedding videos these days can come off as badly-timed music videos, or on the other side of the scale, super expensive, yet amazing productions (and really, well worth the price of those talented individuals). But, as our budget allowed for something more in the middle, I was beyond excited to discover Enns Visuals via Style Me Pretty, who works with Nataschia Wielink Photography.

Last weekend my Mother and I went out to visit Nataschia for a consultation and I immediately wanted to book. Their wedding videos are all about the story, the couple, and the magic of the day. You can hear the audio over beautiful ambient music, and the shots are cut together in an intriguing, more creative way. Finally a cinematographer who's vision I totally admire!

If you haven't already checked it out, be sure to watch "Matt & Lindsey's" beautiful video above...

Video: Nataschia Wielink Photography

for the love of film {no.2}...

2011-11-22T09:00:00.005-05:00

Today i'm excited to add Alexandria of Little Postcards to the series, as her photos capture so many different aspects of nature, each with stunning detail. They're the type of shots that just make me want to spend all my time outdoors exploring. It was hard to choose, but above are just a few of my favourite photos, and the answers to my questions below... enjoy!

First off, what kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

I use a Pentax K1000, Polaroid Mio, Holga, Polaroid Spectra, and Polaroid Land Camera 340. I love Kodak Portra 400 film as well as Fuji Instant Film.

Your photos capture so many different aspects of nature, like the water, trees, flowers, and the sky... what inspires you the most?

Simpy put, inspiration for me hits when I'm doing things. I often feel inspired when shooting film while walking or exploring.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

I find it handy to check my light meter often, but honestly sometimes the imperfections that happen with shooting film turn into something quite extraordinary. To me photographs are mostly about feeling. I watch and observe a lot around me and as I do this, a shot will become apparent. It's best to not force anything, but rather enjoy the moments you're in and the photographs will come.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Have fun with the process and shoot a lot. Don't get mixed up in what others think or self-criticize. If you love it, keep going.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

This is a great question. I am fond of photography by Uta Barth, Joel Meyerowitz, Jen Korff, Brian W. Ferry, André Kertész, Mikael Kennedy, Youngna Park, Jonathan Levitt, Xavier Encinas, Toby Glanville, Johanna Wallin and Charlotte Bland.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

I believe that wherever I am is a great place to shoot film. Traveling is something I adore, but that is not always possible. Finding magic in your own town is one of the best things ever.

And lastly, which is your favourite photo you've shot so far?

I'm not sure I have one particular favourite, but I do enjoy taking photographs of the ocean often. This particular one was taken in October at Cannon Beach, Oregon when a loved one took me there as a surprise trip. I love the memory and moment attached when I view this ocean scene.

Thank you so much for participating Alexandria!

Photos: By Alexandria of Little Postcards

catching up...

2011-11-21T23:18:00.005-05:00

Lately it's been go, go, go and it's finally been catching up with me. Too many things going on at once and i'm pretty exhausted, and frankly stressed. I feel like a vacation day should be in my near future! It's funny how things can go smoothly even though you're doing a lot at once, and then suddenly one thing can just totally tip you out of balance. I tend to get discouraged when this happens... possibly also because i'm in need of more sleep, lol.

What do you do to de-stress?

Photos: My own, from film

underfoot...

2011-11-17T10:10:00.002-05:00

It's starting to get cold enough for off and on flurries lately, which means most of the leaves are dried to a crisp on the ground. Fun to walk through though, as there's something satisfying about that crunching leaves sound, don't you think?

Note: Wedding Wednesday saved for next week...

Photo: My own, from film

for the love of film {no.1}...

2011-11-15T00:00:00.006-05:00

Those of you who have been following for a while now know that my love for film photography has grown to a near obsession lately. There's something about that authentic, grainy photograph that makes almost any subject intriguing to me.

That's why i've decided to start a new series here on the blog called, "For the Love of Film", where i'll be interviewing my favourite photographers/bloggers who also enjoy shooting film. There's so much talent out there and a lot to learn! I hope these interviews will be helpful for you if you're considering shooting film, or that you'll just enjoy getting to know these talented individuals!

I'm delighted to kick off the series with one of my absolute favourite bloggers, Maggie of Folkloric. Maggie resides in Washington State, and always captures the most amazing moments in nature. Her photos have a certain magic that I just love, as well as a truly emotional quality. Above are just a few of my favourite photos (so hard to choose!), and below, an interview with Maggie herself... enjoy! And be sure to pop by her blog too.

First off, what kind of camera(s) do you use? Do you have a preferred brand/type of film?

Most of my photos are taken with my Nikon FM film camera. I also use a Canon XS for digital shots and a vintage Minolta Autochord for when I have the chance to get medium-format developed. I do not have a favorite type of film—I need to experiment more.

Your photos capture such beautiful moments in nature. Where do you get your inspiration?

Thank you! I live in the Pacific Northwest, and while a sweeping panorama of the mountains or waters here can be stunning, I am most inspired by and drawn to photograph the smaller, more intimate scenes I find while out in nature. These details can feel like little secrets, and I treasure them because they seem like a way to turn a vast subject into something personal.

How do you go about setting up the perfect shot? Do you have any photography "rules" that you keep in mind?

I don’t really have any rules that I follow. I can get carried away taking shot after shot of gorgeous flowers in the summertime, changing leaves in the fall—I sometimes feel like this gets self-indulgent, so I try to be aware of that. I don’t want to just flatten something that is already beautiful by itself onto some film and call it a beautiful photograph—I try to think about what I am adding to the shot to make it my own.

What would be your best tip for beginners?

Give yourself permission to not take a photograph, if that makes any sense. When confronted with a stunning view, for example, sometimes I’ll feel guilty about not capturing it on film, even if I am not drawn to photograph the moment. Photograph things that make you feel like you have to take a picture, not that you should.

Who are some of your favourite photographers?

Among many others, I love Eirik Johnson, Keith Carter, and Josef Sudek.

What would be your dream location or subject to photograph?

I don’t know! I don’t usually set out to photograph things—I make sure to bring my camera along as often as possible and particularly when I think a good moment might present itself, but for the most part I like to just see what I see. I do feel like much of the work I do now is tied to where I live, so I would love to explore someplace completely different, like the Deep South. Who knows what would come of that?

And lastly, which is your favourite photo you've shot so far?

I don’t have one.

Thanks so much Maggie for participating! I especially agree with your tip for beginners, it's important to think about what you really want to shoot. Especially with film!

Photos: By Maggie of Folkloric

rainy days...

2011-11-14T09:00:00.001-05:00

Even on a dull, rainy day, the colour of the leaves in the Fall still brightens things a little. The past couple of weeks, when the leaves practically changed all at the same moment, seemed to fly right by! Where does the time go? Now they cover the ground, scattered across neighbours lawns and flying behind cars in the streets. Short-lived, but such a pretty season...

Hope you have a great Monday!

Photos: My own, from film.

tea & cookies...

2011-11-11T23:07:00.005-05:00

Today marks two weeks of Amanda's Shoot by Design photography course that i'm currently taking, and i'm absolutely loving it! I'm particularly enjoying the creative side to the course content, as Amanda's lessons are truly inspiring. I highly recommend it if you're looking for a beginners photography course...

Tonight... it's tea, after a long week... and an appointment-filled weekend. Have a good one!

Photos: My own, from film

crabapple...

2011-11-10T18:38:00.008-05:00

The other day, I came across this wild crabapple tree, just about bare, with tons of little apples strewn all over the ground. It looked oddly pretty, considering the cloudy, rainy day. I suspect even the animals don't like their sour taste though, since there were still so many still around. I have to keep in mind to visit again in the Spring, when the same bare branches will hopefully hold tons of pretty pink blooms instead...

Photos: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.11}...

2011-11-09T00:01:00.005-05:00

This past Saturday I went to three different appointments with a few florists to talk about flowers for our wedding day. It was definitely worth visiting all three, as I certainly got a different vibe from each place, and a good idea regarding pricing.

For the bridesmaids' bouquets, my own, as well as our centrepieces, I'm looking for something very loose and elegantly gathered - not at all structured! I want the bouquets to be a hand-tied mix of white and cream blooms, with just a hint of lavender (colour). I'm also planning on including a lot of different greenery to keep them looking natural. Think romantic wildflowers... freshly picked from the garden... (you can see my Just Flowers inspiration board here).

The first place I went to was a little bit awkward. The florist didn't seem to warm up to us in the beginning, but as the conversation got rolling, things seemed to get better. They have a lot of experience in the area of our venue and seemed to really understand what I was looking for. I was a little hesitant though after learning that the mockup I'd see would be in silk flowers, not real ones. Not exactly how I was envisioning working with a florist...

The second appointment was disappointing. The woman who sat down with us was unfortunately quite rude. I thought it was pretty odd considering I'm there as potential business. I actually think I got an eye-roll when I asked to see the size of a vase she mentioned. Then she repeated three times that she was my wedding consultant (on commission?). She also didn't know our venue that well, and her price was double the amount as the other florists for the same thing! I immediately crossed her off the list...

The third appointment however, was a charm, as it was a last-minute consultation I scheduled on the way back to my hometown, and the one I officially booked! The gentleman was extremely friendly, showed me all different kinds of flowers I could incorporate, as well as what would be better options for the season. He listened to all my ideas and later in the Spring I'm able to book an appointment to come in a pick exactly what flowers I'd like. All in all, the appointment was a lot of fun and I'm feeling pretty confident about our choice!

And one more thing... he also arranged the flowers for my parent's wedding almost 30 years ago! Isn't it funny the way things work out sometimes?

Photo: My own, from film.

above & below...

2011-11-08T20:51:00.005-05:00

Two things I often find myself taking photos of are tree tops and the forest floor. Not really sure why, except that I like capturing what's overhead and what we walk right by. Plus, how could you walk right by a pretty patch of pale green moss and not take a photo?

What do you often find yourself photographing?

Photos: My own, from film

shake and... make your own butter?

2011-11-08T14:34:00.003-05:00

I came across this post over on Kinfolk, and i'm completely fascinated. Apparently with a small mason jar, cream, some salt, and a couple of marbles you can make butter. All you need to do is shake, shake, shake... I wonder how well it works?

Photo: Kinfolk

darker days...

2011-11-07T21:05:00.011-05:00

This past Sunday the clocks went back one hour in an effort to "save" daylight, but considering it's pitch dark now after 5pm, I'm not too keen on the idea. Sure it's lighter in the morning, but wouldn't we all rather get home from work without the moon lighting our way? I know this happens every year, but I feel unprepared this time around for some reason... I still have candles in woodsy scents, a cozy tartan blanket, and the perfect pair of thick wooly socks to find. Evening hibernation at its best...

Photos: My own, from film

P.S. Playing around with the column width here on the blog, so I can start posting larger photos. Better I think, no?

golden afternoon...

2011-11-04T23:50:00.004-04:00

Lately the afternoon light has been absolutely perfect. I captured these shots a few weeks ago, but was cursing myself for not having my camera with me earlier this morning. There was tons of white, glistening frost in the early morning light, and it was beyond pretty. *Sigh*, next time...

I hope you all have a great weekend, with lots of sunshine included...

Photos: My own, from film

a hold on autumn...

2011-11-03T21:09:00.009-04:00

I haven't been to Starbucks in about a week or two. I'm scared my coffee is going to come in a red cup, and frankly it's too early for that. I love the holidays, but i'm still holding on to Fall's beautiful colours and decor straight from nature. There's an abundance of decorative gourds and indian corn still around, and I have no plans to trade that for snow and ice any time soon!

Sorry for the lack of Wedding Wednesday yesterday, I ended up home from work with a really awful headache and didn't want to be anywhere near a computer. Incase you missed it though on Twitter... I had two guest posts yesterday here + here...

Photos: My own, from film

quiet evening...

2011-11-01T20:32:00.003-04:00

After all that sugar and chocolate yesterday, tonight is a cozy evening with tea and a good book. Oh... and Miley... making herself right at home in the middle of the bed, lol.

Photo: My own, from film.

yashica...

2011-11-01T00:35:00.018-04:00

Recently, a few readers emailed me to ask what kind of camera i'm using for my own film photography, so I thought i'd do a little introduction...

My film camera (35mm) is a Yashica FX-3 that my Dad purchased in the 70's. The other day when my Mom was helping me take some photos she mentioned she remembers when my Dad first bought the camera. Apparently, he was taking forever and she thought they'd never get out of the camera shop. That's just like my Dad to research every last one before purchasing.

He took the Yashica FX-3 with him when he travelled, hence the beautiful little fold-out trinket he picked up in Switzerland. As a kid I thought this was one of the neatest little items i'd ever seen (still do). Its miniature size and worn pages makes it look all the more whimsical (much better than an airport shot glass, right?). And so it remains, attached to the camera strap. Then, when I headed off to college, one of the requirements was to bring a manual 35mm film camera for our photography class. The Yashica had it's ups and downs mechanically, but we had it fixed up at the same shop my Dad bought it from all these years later, and even though I just came across it again in the last couple months, it's still working wonderfully!

I'm in the middle of learning manual photography all over again, as I just signed up for Amanda's Shoot by Design photography course which started today (great so far!). The funny thing though, is that I find when I have this camera out in public snapping photos, people think i'm far more experienced than I really am, lol. When I was taking pictures in a bakery with the Yashica, the employee offered to take items out of the case for me to shoot specifically, but when I was there with my digital camera, I was pretty much in the way. Interesting, isn't it? I think there's still a lot of merit to film.

Do you shoot with a manual camera?

Photos: My own

happy {halloween} monday...

2011-10-31T13:48:00.010-04:00

Monday here again, a brand new week, the end of October, and a happy Halloween! This past weekend was fairly simple, gathering items for my costume, catching up on episodes of Say Yes to the Dress, a graveyard photoshoot (pics to come this week hopefully), and dinner with Rick's family to celebrate a birthday...

I love Halloween and getting all dressed up, but the scary side of things is not for me. I haven't seen one horror movie in the past ten years. My imagination is way too creative and i'd be up all night terrified and unable to sleep. The classics however, I love the most, with the Addam's Family being a favourite. Who doesn't love Christina Ricci as Wednesday with her quirky weirdness?

Hope you have a fun Halloween and if you're out taking little ones trick-or-treating tonight, hope they get a lot of good loot!

Photos: Sean MacEntee, Justin McCormick, Cinematte, Gary Buckle, Addams Family, Alan Turkus, Matthew Paton, Julio Zenillo, Corrine Garstang

seasonal delight...

2011-10-30T01:07:00.004-04:00

Have you ever had apple cider doughnuts? A farm nearby my parent's house bakes them during this time of year and they are absolutely amazing... moist and cake-like, they're apple cinnamon deliciousness that I always look forward to. It's a good thing they're not available all year round...

Photo: My own, from film

frost on a friday...

2011-10-28T13:59:00.006-04:00

Today feels like the weekend already after a late night with the girls yesterday (too much taco dip, Grey's and fruity wine!). People watching at a local café, coffee in hand, seem just about right as the sun goes down earlier and earlier these days. That glowing light is just as strong as ever now, as the temperature has dramatically cooled. Has the frost made it your way yet?

Hope you all have a Happy Friday!

Photos: Painted by Numbers - Katharine, Raehin - Rachel, both on Flickr

perfect pumpkins...

2011-10-28T02:09:00.009-04:00

With Halloween just around the corner, now is the time to pick out the perfect pumpkin for carving a ghoulish frown or cheerful grin to light up the way for all the little trick-or-treater's.

I'm not a big fan of orange, but pumpkin orange is always such a wonderfully bright shade of Autumn, it's hard not to love. Packed together and picked up one-by-one, pumpkin season always seems so short-lived...

Do you carve pumpkins for Halloween? If so, here's a few unique ideas to get you started...

Faux Bois...

Beautiful detail...

Filled fireplace...

+ tips for keeping carved pumpkins fresh...

Photos: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.10}...

2011-10-26T11:20:00.009-04:00

The other day I started thinking about what music we'd like to have during our ceremony. There is access to a sound system at our venue, but frankly the idea of having someone set it up and play songs at exactly the right time is way too nerve-racking. Rick agreed it probably wasn't the best plan. Someone had suggested a few different live options instead, and after some research we've decided to go with a string duo! Surprisingly, it's not as expensive as we thought it might have been. A violinist and cellist will play some light classical music before our ceremony as our guests arrive and then 2 - 3 songs during the ceremony (processional, signing, recessional). I think it'll be a nice touch while people are waiting, and it all fits in perfectly with our historical venue.

The one big surprise however, is walking back down the aisle to bagpipes! It was my Mother's only request with my Granda not being with us anymore, and as loud and crazy as they are, my parents also had them at their wedding, so it seems like a good tradition to continue. I secretly think it will also be a little funny to see the shocked looks on our guests faces, lol. With the majority being Italian (My Dad, and both Rick's parents side of the family), it'll be a fun surprise, but also a really nice surprise for my Granny and Scottish relatives who will be joining us from Glasgow. Our piper will also play a little bit as we gather outside just before pictures... something i'm sure the neighbourhood will love, ha!

Photo: Infaerina - Michael Johnson, on Flickr

chloé locket...

2011-10-24T21:35:00.011-04:00

Chloé is my absolute favourite fragrance. It's light, feminine, and sweet with the scent of rose amongst other flowery notes. My collection of pretty Chloé products is ever growing, including the parfum of course, the scented lotion, shower gel, and most recently... the new Chloé solid perfume in a smooth, oval locket on a long silver chain. Perfect for little "scent touch-ups" throughout the day, don't you think? Plus, once the perfume is done, it's the perfect hiding spot for photos or secret notes...

Photos: My own, from film

notes from the weekend...

2011-10-24T08:00:00.005-04:00

Monday is here with a new week ahead, after a quiet and casual past few days. There was shopping for boots on Friday night (with some potential here + here), sleeping in on Saturday as well as a french treat or two, catching up on some reading, and two new rolls of film to be developed... all in all, uneventful and absolutely perfect. Although, now i'm craving an espresso and buttery croissant for breakfast...

How was your weekend?

Photos: By Lorena Arrance

sometimes...

2011-10-22T12:32:00.003-04:00

...the best of plans, are no plans. Enjoy the weekend.

Photos: Leslie M K, Isabelle Bertolini, both on Flickr

a love for nutella...

2011-10-20T23:17:00.006-04:00

As soon as I saw this photo by Andrea on Flickr, I had to share it. When I was younger my Mother went to visit family in Scotland (all of my Mother's side of the family still lives there). My Dad packed our lunches instead of course, and we got Nutella on crackers for a week straight! It's his favourite on toast or any kind of bread, so it's not that surprising that it ended up in our lunch. There was also the time we went to Italy together just before college, and like in the photo above, I collected quite a few Nutella glasses after we quickly emptied each jar. The European glass jars are much more effective that our plastic, aluminum sealed ones, which my Dad accidentally microwaved one day – sparks and smoke included, lol. It had been placed in the fridge, making it too hard to spread.

Some have baked goods, heirloom vegetables, or Sunday night roasts... but Nutella will always be a family favourite...

Photo: Andrea on Flickr

rainy autumn days...

2011-10-20T22:06:00.005-04:00

It's been grey and rainy all week long, with a cold wind scattering leaves all around. It's definitely making me want to stay at home and curl up with a good cup of tea. I'm finding the dark mornings are making it so hard to get up lately. I mean, when exactly did that start? Suddenly 7am is still pitch black. There's just no comfort like staying at home all cozy and quiet on days like these. I'm definitely planning on a cozy, casual weekend...

Photos: Hanne Johansen, Benjamin Haywood

wedding wednesday {no.9}...

2011-10-19T22:58:00.007-04:00

After Rick and I got engaged and shared the news with our family, I immediately wanted to write everything down (I am a blogger afterall). I thought it would be nice to record all those special pre-wedding moments, so I could look back years from now, and remember all the fun we had planning our wedding day. From the moment we knew our venue was perfect, to our uncontrollable laughter at an appointment with our dj, and the minute I knew it was the dress... i'm so glad i've written it all down. It's nice to have all those little details, in a pretty leather journal with gold lined pages...

Photo: Jen (Louveciennes) on Flickr

blue skies & sunshine...

2011-10-17T22:34:00.010-04:00

With all the cold, rainy weather we've been having lately, I had to post some blue skies and sunshine from earlier this month. On the way home one day I passed by a group of cute little goats munching away by the side of the road. Unfortunately a twig I snapped underfoot sent them running for the middle of field, where I found myself apologizing to them out loud, lol... annnd time for the crazy girl and her camera to get back in the car. A pretty day out in the field though, no?

Photos: My own, from film.

notes from the weekend...

2011-10-17T10:58:00.011-04:00

Good morning everyone... hope you all had a good weekend. Mine was oh-so-rainy and super cold, but it was spent sleeping in and shopping, with a new lip treatment from Fresh, plenty of Sephora samples, pretty things from Victoria's Secret, and a navy cable-knit sweater from Banana Republic. I also had an amazing time having high tea with a friend at the King Edward in Toronto, and many mini sweets and sandwiches later... drinks with Rick and a roasted, Sunday night, chicken dinner.

What did you get up to?

Photos: Lorena*Arance, Lorena*Arance, Tara Thayer, all from Flickr

pretty things...

2011-10-13T16:37:00.004-04:00

I love photos of pretty, girly things all grouped together, like jewelry and perfume. These two by Thank you, ok make me want to display all my items nicely on the counter and find a pretty glass for my makeup brushes asap...

Photos: Thank you, ok, found via Fieldguided

october favourite...

2011-10-13T00:00:00.007-04:00

As promised, I thought i'd post some of the photos I took while my Mother made apple pie this past weekend. Using my film camera I took about 25 photos, but with my digital camera as a back up I took over 200 – way too many! Plus, I really only ended up liking a few of the photos from my digital camera (can you guess which one I used above?).

Even with the small amount of carefully arranged photos I took on film (i.e. making my Mother pause every few minutes so I could actually focus and snap a shot, lol...), I still like the results of film better. There's something more honest and authentic about the way film captures light. Sure, most of these shots are probably underexposed and what-not, but compared to my digital photos I think these ones serve the pie-making tradition that much more.

Our apples came fresh from the farm that morning (along with the Cortlands I picked last week), and with dough from scratch, a little brown sugar with cinnamon, and a simple egg wash to coat, the apple pies were a huge hit after turkey dinner! I love October.

Do you have any family pie recipes?

Photos: My own, from film... minus the egg. Did you guess right?

wedding wednesday {no.8} pt.2... our engagement photos!

2011-10-12T14:00:00.019-04:00

These final photos were taken where Rick orignally proposed. It was important for us to go back there and get a few shots, as it looks totally different in the Summer! Back in May it was just a rolling, grassy (and rainy) hill, where as in August, the grass was up to our waists with wildflowers all around. I'm thankful to Amanda and Natalie for practically crawling around in the bushes to take photos! By the time we arrived to this second spot it was super hot out, with the sun shining strong, so I have to thank Rick as well for putting up with us girls... "Just oneeee more shot!". They turned out beautiful though, i'm so glad we were able to go back there. Thanks again girls!

Hope you all liked the shoot...

Rick's shirt & pants: Banana Republic

My dress: H&M, Shoes: ALDO

Earrings: Pearls, a Christmas gift from Rick

Photos: By Amanda Keenan & Natalie Mantej

wedding wednesday {no.8} pt.1... our engagement photos!

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Today is an extra special 'Wedding Wednesday', as i'm very excited to share Rick and I's engagement photos! On what started as a rainy day (appropriate since we got engaged in the rain), two of my best girlfriends Amanda and Natalie snapped these wonderful moments for us!

I'm so happy our friends were able to shoot our engagement photos for us. It really made the whole process that much more fun and ultimately personal, plus it all turned out so well! We started the process with a Pinterest board, gathering photos we admired and poses we liked, and created a little vintage picnic theme. The blue bridal book was my Mother's wedding planner (cute, right?), Rick's vintage hat and shoes are his Dad's, and the vintage camera and picnic basket are my own that I picked up from an antique shop a few years ago. It was great to incorporate so many things we already owned or were able to borrow.

This part of the shoot was taken in a nearby town under the "Kissing Bridge", which is basically a covered bridge over the river, that looks like a large red barn. It's a beautiful spot. There's a few small houses nearby, like the stone cottage in the first photo, and one of the owners actually came outside to ask "What did she say?!", lol... I said yes, of course! It was so fun getting all dressed up with Rick, laughing and joking around with our friends, and as the day went on the sun only got brighter and brighter...

Later today i'll be posting Part Two of our engagement photos (much shorter, I promise), that were taken at a second location, where Rick proposed this past May...

Photos: By Amanda Keenan and Natalie Mantej

after the turkey...

2011-10-11T20:48:00.006-04:00

Hello everyone... back again after a weekend of far too much turkey and mashed potatoes. So good, it's hard to stop eating! The apple pie turned out delicious and I have lots of pictures to share soon. Tonight though, it's relaxing with a cup of tea, and preparing for an extra-special post for tomorrow. I'm really excited to share this one with you all (and a little nervous)... hope you had a great weekend!

Photo: Hannah - Honey & Jam on Flickr

thanksgiving weekend...

2011-10-07T23:15:00.007-04:00

Thanksgiving weekend has officially arrived here in Canada, along with Fall in full swing! The leaves have changed colour, farmer's fields have been plowed of their stalks, and there's a distinct scent of dried leaves in the air. The sun is definitely starting to set sooner, but there's nothing like that pure Autumn glow! It's the perfect weather really, where it's slightly cool with your car windows down, but the sunshine is just strong enough to keep you cozy and warm...

Happy to be heading to my hometown this weekend, where Rick and I will be spending Thanksgiving dinner together with both of our families on Monday. I'm so looking forward to way too much food and lots of apple pie. Hopefully I can sneak in a walk or two as well and enjoy this gorgeous weather. Hope you all have a great weekend!

P.S. Doesn't the above just look like the perfect country life? Love all the plaid!

Photos: By Craig Owen, styling by Marina Didovich, for Fashion NZ, via Dustjacket Attic

set aside for pie...

2011-10-06T11:56:00.007-04:00

Just thought i'd share a few more photos from the weekend... the bright Cortland's I picked are being saved in the cellar for Thanksgiving apple pie this weekend. I'm hoping to document the pie making process, as it's a recipe my Mom has used for years (just not sure about using the film camera indoors)... what's your favourite kind of pie during this season?

Photos: My own, from film

foraging...

2011-10-06T00:21:00.004-04:00

Confession: I don't really like mushrooms. At all. Not unless my Grama cooks them covered in olive oil with peas and herbs, and even then they're usually button mushrooms. But this Mushroom Foraging video by Carl Pendle has a naturally peaceful quality about it that I think is pretty fascinating. It doesn't get any fresher than finding and cooking produce straight from the wild... seems like a little luxury really, doesn't it?

Video: By Carl Pendle on Vimeo, found via Kinfolk Magazine Blog

wedding wednesday {no.7}...

2011-10-05T11:55:00.011-04:00

This past Sunday Rick and I headed to what is probably one of the best appointments – cake! I met Shari Yates at a local bridal show, where I first tried a sample of her amazing cake. It was so good, paired with the perfect buttercream icing. I had to have Rick try it too.

What I really loved about the appointment was how well Shari pulled all the details together... mini heart-shaped samples on silver serving trays, with small containers of icing to mix and match, a beautiful place setting complete with silver charter plates, and full-size sample wedding cakes placed around the room. You know someone really puts a lot of effort into their product when they pay attention to those kinds of details. Everything just looked great together!

With vanilla, chocolate, and raspberry icing, we tried vanilla, lemon, chocolate, and red velvet cake. It was beyond delicious! Rick kept pretending he was going to take off with all the icing containers, lol. We had totally forgotten about red velvet cake though, an almost vanilla flavour with just a hint of cocoa, and it was by far our favourite. Paired with the vanilla buttercream it was an easy choice. We're going to be doing 7 tiers of cupcakes with a small 6" fondant cake up top. The cupcakes will be wrapped with a lace-patterned paper liner and i'm also thinking about doing a lace fondant pattern on the cake part, kind of like the photo above... we'll see. I can't wait to see how it all turns out, and to eat some of course!

One more thing checked off the list...

Photo: Via Style Me Pretty, by Infinity Photography

apple picking...

2011-10-04T23:59:00.014-04:00

Hello everyone, sorry for the late start to the week. I had planned on sharing these photos first thing Monday morning, but my weekend ended not so well. Long story short, someone hit my car head-on on my way home Sunday night. Luckily I wasn't going that fast, so all is ok, but i'm hoping and crossing my fingers that my car can be fixed. It took me practically all of Monday to get a rental car organized...

The beginning of my weekend was much more fun though, as I finally got to go apple picking with a few friends! What started out as a chilly morning, turned into a beautiful, sunny afternoon at the orchard. I picked (and ate) plenty of Golden Delicious, as well as some Cortland apples for Thanksgiving pie this upcoming weekend. Fresh off the tree, sometimes even with a single leaf still attached, it's by far the best way to eat an apple during this time of year (of course, pie and apple crisp are acceptable too). The orchard was gorgeous, with all different kinds of apples to choose from, and plenty of other produce at their open market store. It was good to be outside, enjoying the fresh air. Taking a trip to a local farm is the perfect tradition to welcome October with open arms...

Photos: My own, from film.

trying something new...

2011-09-30T11:06:00.008-04:00

Just recently I discovered my Dad's old Yashica FX-3 SLR camera that I used back when I was in college. We had a short spurt of photographic knowledge thrown at us, but I didn't really feel like I got to experiment artistically with the camera. I decided to use Miley, my little siamese kitty, as a test subject to see if the camera is still working ok... but in hindsight it probably wasn't the best idea I had because she moves around. A lot. She gave me glamour eyes for about two seconds before deciding that posing for the camera was beneath her if I wasn't going to allow her to chew on the dangling strap. For some reason she really likes the smell of the camera bag as well (which results in more chewing). She's pretty cute though, right?

I'm hoping to use this medium for more of my posts. I love the quality and nostalgic feeling that film produces. For once I have to actually think about the photo i'm taking, rather than snapping off 100 shots in two minutes. I have A LOT to learn about light, and using a manual camera in general, but it's pretty fun to drop off film, excitedly awaiting the results (ok, I only waited an hour, but still)... remember that?

Photos: My own, from film

wedding wednesday {no.5 + 6}...

2011-09-28T12:00:00.005-04:00

Unfortunately last week I missed Wedding Wednesday, but happy to be sharing a little more of the plans today with two major tasks accomplished. Last weekend my Maid of Honour and I headed back to the dress shop so I could show her "the dress", and luckily she loved it just as much as I do! Having her there to see the dress was one of those crazy wedding moments... sort of like, "Wow. I can't believe i'm here, trying on wedding dresses, with my best friend." I'm happy it went so well.

We also got the chance to try out some bridesmaids dresses and I think we've found the perfect one! It's a strapless dress by Bill Levkoff, chiffon instead of the usual satin, with a sweetheart neckline and a hem that falls just below the knee. It's flowing and elegant, and amazingly... comes in the EXACT colour I was imagining in my head. That never happens. It's called Victorian Lilac, and blends in perfectly. It looks a little different online (it's not as grey in real life), but you can take a peek here. We haven't decided quite yet, but it's a high contender.

This past Saturday was a big one though, as I officially said yes to the dress! I've tried on the same dress 3 times now, and never want to take it off. It's elegant and sophisticated in a gorgeous shade of ivory and I can't wait for Rick to see me in it! It was nerve wracking choosing a dress so early (I won't see it for 8 months now!), but at the same time it was also a really easy choice. I wish I could show you all, but I just can't take the chance. However, i'll be sure to show you in a year or so!

Also, remember those engagement photos I promised? I haven't forgotten. I'll have them soon, and can't wait to share...

Photo: Via Snippet & Ink by photographer Molly Watson

local love...

2011-09-27T14:33:00.006-04:00

Aren't these photos captured by Alicia Bock just beautiful? They're taken at an Outstanding in the Field event, held at Back Forty Acres farm. I would love to attend one of these dinners. Guests dine outdoors on local food, including food from the very farm they're visiting, bringing their own plates and cutlery along with them. Isn't that an amazing idea!? They're travelling all over the world now, and i'm hoping one day Canadian locations make on their list...

Check out Part 1 and Part 2 for more of Alicia's gorgeous photos!

Photos: By Alicia Bock

a new week...

2011-09-26T13:36:00.016-04:00

Hello everyone, Happy Monday! This week as Fall slowly creeps in, i'm looking forward to focusing on wellness and a good night's sleep. I've created a schedule for myself, and hope to just really focus on making the right choices. A friend and I were talking about how if you flip through all the fitness magazines or websites, information always varies from one day to the next. One day a single study can send people bolting for some superfood, and the next day, too much of that food can cause all kinds of problems. I think it's important to just get simple... to favour fruits, veggies and grains over sugar, meat, dairy, and processed foods. Easier said than done I know, but I think it's mostly the planning part. Eating healthy isn't rocket science, right? It's just planning to have those foods readily available once hunger strikes. That's what i'm trying out this week, starting with lots of warm water...

We all know the benefits of drinking water - flushing out toxins, restoring moisture, hydrating skin, etc., but it's best to drink it warm rather than cold. Cold water can actually over-stimulate the kidneys, and frankly I find it harder to drink (although we're all different - you may prefer cold). There's something about ice cold water crashing into my stomach that doesn't feel too great. Room temperature or hot water on the other hand - no problem. Drinking a glass first thing in the morning really helps, as it's good to replenish what you've lost overnight, and i've also been slowly trying out all different kinds of herbal tea to see what I like best. The simplest approach though? A glass with a slice of lemon in it. Super easy, and adds a bit of a flavour too.

I actually don't have any fruit juice or pop in the fridge unless I have guests over, because I find I just won't drink it and 3/4 of the jug goes to waste. I prefer water, but haven't been drinking nearly enough!

What about you? Do you prefer hot or cold water? Are you drinking enough?

Photos: By Liz Risby and Elena {Pretty Light}, both on Flickr

the arrival of autumn...

2011-09-24T21:44:00.017-04:00

Can you believe it? It's almost the end of September and Autumn is officially here! There's so many wonderful things i'm looking forward to, like hot apple cider, walks along a leaf covered path, apple picking and baking pie, cozy sweaters and scarves. One of my favourite seasons for sure!

Today I headed out to the farmer's market for some butternut squash for soup tonight (as it seems like the most appropriate meal to welcome the new season), and the first of Fall's pumpkins were already out for sale. Bright orange with a beautiful glow, I couldn't help but pick one up now to decorate the balcony. Along with a pretty new mum plant and a few oddly shaped gourds, my place is looking a little more cozy for the season...

Happy Autumn!

Photos: My own

sea salt scrub...

2011-09-21T11:45:00.005-04:00

I'm a big fan of epsom bath salts and other salt scrubs, so I was happy to come across a post by Erin of Reading My Tea Leaves for Rose Geranium Sea Salt Scrub. I've never smelled rose geranium before, but described as sweet and fragrant, similiar to a rose itself, I can't wait to make this homemade scrub! Full recipe (and more great photos) here...

Photo: By Erin of Reading My Tea Leaves

signs of fall...

2011-09-20T22:01:00.012-04:00

During the lunch hour today I headed out for a little walk in sunshine along the riverside by my office. There's a large flock of Canadian geese that come back to hang out along the water's edge in the Fall, but it's always a little sad to see them fly off v-formation later on. It's a sure sign that cooler weather is on the way when they head down South (frankly, I think they have the right idea). We're not quite there yet as just the tips of the leaves are starting to change colour, but before you know it, it'll be a sea of red, orange, and golden hues...

Photos: My own.

rainy monday...

2011-09-19T13:30:00.006-04:00

Hello everyone, how was your weekend? It's a gloomy, rainy Monday here today, and there's a certain heavy quietness all around. It's a little odd, and has me wanting to curl up with a cozy blanket, a good book, and endless cups of tea...

We had yoga today though, which always does some good no matter what mood your in. It was difficult at times though, making me vow to never stop practicing for more than a few weeks in between class "seasons" again. I feel like i'm learning all over again! With all the bad posture and leaning over desk computers all day everyday, it's no wonder how our bodies can revert back to that awful tension so quickly (at least mine anyway). Definitely glad to be back in yoga again...

Photo: By Charlotte Bland on Flickr

friday at last...

2011-09-16T10:13:00.007-04:00

Friday is here at last, and with brings my best friend for a fun sleepover and wedding dress shopping on Saturday. I can't wait to try on the one I liked most again for her to see. Plus, we can do a little bridesmaid dress perusing while we're there.

The mornings have cooled off quite significantly this week and my closet seems ill-prepared. I'm dreaming of new cable knit sweaters, plaid flannel, and leather boots. It's definitely time to shop a little! I read this Scandinavian saying over on a Cup of Jo yesterday, that "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes". How true. If you're all bundled up properly, the cold weather shouldn't be as bad. Advice I really need to try and remember this Fall and upcoming W***** (yeah it's waaay too early to name that season).

For now, i'm enjoying the Fall sunshine... Happy Friday!

Photos: Threading in the Choirs by Michael A. Muller

wedding wednesday {no.4}...

2011-09-14T13:56:00.005-04:00

Lately i've been thinking about wedding cake, as i've made a few "tasting" apppointments, and started thinking about what kind of cake we'd like to have. I'd like to do something a little different from the regular fancy tiered cake, and kind of have my mind set on one small top tier in fondant icing (since Rick loves it) and the rest of the tiers would follow with cupcakes. I also recently came across this lovely setup of a few separate cakes with pretty floral detail and whipped buttercream icing – much easier to cut than one tall fondant cake! Either way, i've made a note to remember that not everyone actually eats the wedding cake, so it's best to account for 2/3 of your guests, rather than having a whole bunch of unused cake left over. Makes sense to me!

Photos: Via Blog Unworn, flowers by Saipua

the skinny...

2011-09-13T11:45:00.005-04:00

Even though i'm mad at J.Crew for raising their prices for Canadians (seriously ridiculous), i've been obsessing over this skinny leather belt. Wouldn't it be perfect wrapped around a cozy cardigan, to wear with skinny jeans and Fall boots?

Photo: J.Crew

giving in to fall...

2011-09-12T19:51:00.011-04:00

Hello everyone! Hope your weekend went well, and your Monday as smoothly as possible. Today was a great beginning to the week, having started up yoga again. Our noon hour class left me feeling calm and content all afternoon. It's amazing what a little yoga can do for your day. I'm so glad we're back at it again.

With just a few weeks left until the official first day of Fall (September 22nd), i'm starting to feel like it's already here. The early days when it's still quite warm out and you can get away with just boots, jeans and a light sweater, are really the best days. It's that even temperature where it's not too hot, and not too cold, that I love best.

So when I came across this delicious looking Apple Butter recipe, I just knew it's time to give in. Apple butter is basically a reduction of cooked apples until it reaches a smooth, "compote"-like state. It can be used on things like toast with a little cinnamon, or plain on thick french bread, and even in stir-fry recipes. With a slow cooker, plenty of apples, and a few other key ingredients (no sugar!), you can make a whole batch overnight. I'm going to give it a go in the next week and see how it turns out...

Photo & recipe: The Seasonal Family

antigravity...

2011-09-09T21:55:00.004-04:00

This upcoming Monday i'm finally getting back to a regular yoga class! My absolute favourite yoga teacher is coming back to where I work for two classes a week during the lunch hour. It's such a nice break from the busy day and the results are wonderful. I can't wait!

Have you ever heard of antigravity yoga though? I first heard of it from Rick's sister who said it was a little too crazy for her, being wound up in cocoon-like state, but after seeing this video over on Lululemon I have to admit i'm intrigued. There's something about floating seamlessly through the air while stretching that seems like it would be totally relaxing (and fun!).

What do you think? Have you you tried antigravity yoga before?

Video: Lululemon

back to basics...

2011-09-09T21:04:00.007-04:00

Along with starting up a new blog for a fresh perspective, I had also wanted to start making some healthier changes in my daily life. Too much to do and too little sleep has gotten in the way the past few months, but now with a relatively free weekend i'm looking forward to detoxing from it all a little. Now, I don't mean detox as in 1-cup-of-juice-for-breakfast-lunch-and-dinner-craziness, but just avoiding the bad stuff, and stocking up on the good! Hoping to avoid all processed foods, sugar, and dairy when possible and stocking up on veggies, fruit, and whole grains again. Drinking lots of water is definitely a must and heading to bed much, much earlier as well. It's definitely needed. Tomorrow, I clean out the pantry and fridge!

Hope you all have a great weekend, and as always, here's a few weekend links...

Becoming Gwyneth... (I wonder if she's read this?)

A better pie...

Leading lady...

Love this rain jacket in black (check out the cute video too!)...

A guide to buying organic (found via Eat.Live.Shop)...

The cutest muffin/cupcake liners (thanks Sarah!)...

Photo: Scan from Whole Living Magazine Jan/Feb, by Raymond Hom

simplicity...

2011-09-09T00:02:00.006-04:00

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication."

– Leonardo da Vinci

There's something about a simple room that speaks volumes, don't you think? I love that textured blanket!

Photos: Scans from Detox for Life by Josephine Collins, photos by Polly Wreford

september sky...

2011-09-08T22:09:00.007-04:00

You that moment when you're driving down a country road, just before the sun starts to set, when the light is perfectly right and the clouds are beautifully stretched across the sky?

I finally had my camera with me!

Photo: My own.

wedding wednesday {no.3}...

2011-09-07T23:00:00.006-04:00

In order to stay organized during this whole wedding process, i've been trying to think of different little tasks I can do now, rather than waiting until a few months before the wedding when everything's coming together quickly. I know for sure that I want to display some family wedding photos (all the way back to Rick and I's great Grandparents) in really ornate gold frames. I love the vintage feel and the history to it, which will fit in wonderfully with our location. I've made a mental note to keep an eye out for some antique ones and hope to frame some photos soon!

Photos: Style Me Pretty

creative wandering...

2011-09-06T23:39:00.008-04:00

Back again after a great long weekend. It's always nice to have an extra day off... kind of wishing it was a holiday week too. September sure moved in with a chill though, with the temperature suddenly dropping and grey skies overhead, but i'm sure it'll warm up again soon.

On the weekend I was thinking about how Fall always seems to be a great time to try out new little creative side projects (something about spending a cozy time indoors). I think it's just some sort of creative-type-restlessness though. Do you remember pressing flowers when you were little? I had the "official" kit when I was younger, but i'd love to try it out again with some of the last of Summer's flowers. There's something a little "English" and romantic about it. Like the prettiest of bookmarks just waiting to be discovered in the book above – 100 years old and the new owner found them tucked inside! Now that's something you can't do with your Kindle...

Do you ever find your creative side wandering?

Photo: By rabbitrabbit002

casual weekend...

2011-09-02T18:00:00.001-04:00

Happy weekend everyone... i'm planning on taking things slowly, with some major sleeping in tomorrow and a lazy breakfast with a cup of tea and a good book. I have a birthday party Saturday evening where i'm taking pictures, and then it's whatever goes for the rest of the weekend! I'm really hoping Rick and I will be able to make it to the local fair though. It happens every Labour Day weekend in a nearby town, and I haven't been in years. I think we're due for a ferris wheel ride! What are your Labour Day plans?

Here's a few weekend links... have a good one!

Squash blossoms...

Too funny...

So cute...

Such a pretty shoot...

Madeline envelopes...

Martha Stewart Weddings Fall cover shoot...

Photos: By knifed and NicaMom

end of season...

2011-09-01T21:27:00.013-04:00

Can you believe it's already September 1st? This upcoming long weekend always has me wishing I planned a trip somewhere right on the beach... the "last" weekend of the Summer (although I do have other weekend plans, lol). Spending some time at the beach, shopping at small town boutiques, and reading a good book on a sunny porch sounds perfect. I do love September though, and looking forward to all it has to bring... I can barely wait to shop for a new pair of leather boots!

Photos: Stephmodo - Elle Decor no.177, Honeytree print on Etsy, Country Cooking of France, Dustjacket Attic, by Em_rocker on Flickr

wedding wednesday {no.2}...

2011-08-31T23:00:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the late night post, but this Wedding Wednesday I have a great excuse! After a morning appointment today I went to try on some wedding dresses for the first time with my Mom. We visited two of the city's best stores, where I quickly learned that the styles you don't like on paper actually look very different on. Puffy, princess, mermaid, fitted... I tried them all and had a lot of fun doing so! It's amazing how heavy some dresses are though. I swear I tried one on that weighed about 15 pounds. How does one even move in a dress like that?

Twenty or so styles later I think I found one I really, really adore. There were a few maybe's, but when I thought, "Would Rick like this one?" I really fell in love with it. It was one the saleswoman had taken off the mannequin for me to try on. I saw it immediately when I first walked into the store, but thought, there's no way that style will work on me. Well, it does! And later when my Mom and I had returned home I took a peek through the tear sheets of dresses that i've been saving the past few months, and it turns out I had saved the exact dress and didn't even realize it. Crazy, right? I'm headed back in two weeks to get the "Maid of Honour approval" from my best friend Ashley, and then we'll see... I might have found my dress already! Is it supposed to be this easy? Such a great day...

Photo: Kate Osborne Photography

P.S. "My" dress looks nothing like the one above – can't take any chances with Rick. His detective skills are pretty good, even when he's not intentionally looking for something. You'll have to wait until pics are taken for the details... sorry!