This n That: Currently Makin Me Smile

{The cutest pillow in the world purchased at Poshshop}

Wow what a week. Busy getting organized and taking in all this beautiful city has to offer. I can already tell I am going to love it here and find myself asking after a 5 minute drive to work the other day why I have not moved here sooner? Bright lights big city I am easily captivated by its fast past vibe. These are a few things I thought I would share that are currently making me smile. As another month comes to an end I wish you all a safe and happy Halloween and of course a great start to the work week ahead. 

{Enjoying red wine and using this neat lil gadget: Vinturi Wine Aerator}

{Using pottery bought on Hornby Island as art in the kitchen}

{Current bath time reading material}

{My new favourite cereal}

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Tips to Organize Your Wardrobe

My recent post on Plato's Closet seen here reminded me of how important it is to be organized in order to get the maximum use out of your wardrobe. We didn't just slave away at work to purchase things we adore and feel great in to forget about them due to loss of sight or being misplaced. A closet is a girls best friend and should never be neglected. The more visible your clothing is, the more capable you are of putting together outfits and even just remembering something you have gone long with out wearing. I take my closet as a serious subject. A collection that is forever ongoing, interchanging, and inspiring. In comparison to a man collecting toys a female is always after the newest and latest great piece. I thought I would share a few tips I currently used to set up my new closet in Vancouver.

1. A bundle of super thin hangers to create more space for hanging. Avoid the big bulky wood type.

2. Hangers with spongy material on them so that silk or loose tops do not easily slide off the hanger and hit the floor. (A huge pet peeve is to come across a nice top bunched in the corner on the floor and for who knows how long!)

3. Rearrange and add shelving (most places cheap out and only give you one shelf) Most often there is room for two shelves if the original is moved up a couple feet and new one built in below.

4. Necessity for the boys is a a tie hook or hanger. One hook that allows all the ties to be bundled and hung neatly together.

5. A belt hook. I recently just purchased a hook with 4 hooks attached to it. Perfect for hanging belts off of or even scarves.

6. Shoe racks so shoes are easily visible and displayed.

7. A jewellery box or open space where jewellery can be organized and easily accessible.

8. Use wicker baskets to hide junk or things you may not use daily. These look good from the outside and no ones knows what you are hiding on the inside.

* Biggest tip is to make sure everything is as visible as possible to get the maximum use out of everything you own including shoes, jewellery and make up.

Happy closet organizing!

Picture snagged from Pinterest (Although I wish I could say it was my own)
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Chopped Salmon Salad

        

What to do with salmon leftovers? Baffled after being left with a 2 pound slab of cooked salmon after last weeks dinner I asked myself this question. It had already feed 4 people for dinner and I was not stoked on the idea of having the same meal for lunch again. This recipe solved my problem and served as not only a nutritious lunch but tasty and not to mention something different then the usual sandwich, salad, or wrap. A great way to use last nights dins for a healthy lunch. Serve with your favourite crackers and veggies and you are good to go. I do have to mention that this was my first time using capers in a recipe and even though it said optional I was quite surprised by there significant taste, very complimentary to the salmon.

        

        

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This n That: Currently Makin Me Smile

{My Grandmas Burmese Jade ring passed down from my Mother}

This past week has been filled with much anticipation and excitement. The move finally happened on Saturday so I am up to my neck in boxes trying to organize my life. Up until the day of the big move I was using any excuse in the book to take my mind of being overly excited for the big change of events. These were a few of the things that got me through last weeks anticipation. I am now a little bit more relaxed and looking forward to getting settled in our new home. With Halloween around the corner, a few fun and silly nights out with good friends is well needed. Happy Monday, wishing you all a great start to the festive week ahead!

{Martha Stewart sparkles I plan on using on my nails for my Halloween Costume}

{Latest purchase: Cliniques dark spot corrector and free gift with purchase. I love a good freebie!}

{My favourite flower: an orchid}

{Trying different wine and loved this Shiraz}

   

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Baby It's Cold Outside

Brrrrrrrr if it was not for that warm sun shining all week I would have freezed my tush off. The cold air is making its way here and let me tell you it is only going to get worse from here on out. Sigh. I heard the breaking news last week that we are expected to have the coldest Winter yet! Yikes, time to start bundling and layering. I have made this list (and I love any excuse to make a good list) as a reminder of what to buy in hopes of keeping warm and dry over the next few months. And yes, another excuse to shop;) Forbid we be cold or wet as the rainy season sets in!
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Save vs Splurge: Knit Colour Block Sweater

With my new discovery of the line Maison Scotch it was an instant crush on the cropped mohair sweater. I have always been a big fan of strips and the neutral colours are very fallesque. Constantly on the lookout for warm pieces to wear to work I came across Forever 21's knitted colour block sweater. For a fraction of the price there is no guilt if the piece looses its lust quicker then expected. Not to mention I can not tell the difference between the two, can you?

    

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Maple Salmon Marinade

Dating a man who loves to fish I can not complain about the freezer being stocked with fresh salmon since July. I do have to admit that eating it throughout the Summer every week did have its toll on its taste. A long break in September was well needed, as I did not want my love for fresh fish to vanish. Craving a long time fav for last nights dinner I prepared a Maple Salmon Marinade to prep the salmon in before it was baked and served. I always appreciate an easy recipe when the ingredients called for are all at reach. I used this recipe and was delighted with the outcome of it's sweet taste. Remember to save some of the glaze to add on top when served.

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Maison Scotch

While shopping for Men's clothing with my bf I discovered the brand Scotch and Soda. My new favourite line of Men's wear. The same day I realized I was wearing a Scotch and Soda scarf that I purchased in NYC last spring. It was then I found out that that the ladies line is called Maison Scotch and that I was currently rocking a Men's scarf. The collection of Scotch and Soda was huge with a variety of collared shirts, sweaters, and plaids however they didn't have much to show for the ladies. I knew I had to check the line out online and heres what I liked. My favourite thing about this line is some pieces come with an accessory attached. As you can see from the picks above there are pieces that come with a necklace, or scarf or a tee or tank to wear underneath. Super casual the Amsterdam Couture is right up my alley. 

1. Short Parka w/Extended Collar $336
2. Jersey Grandad Sweater $70
3. Fancy Shirt with Front Knot $98
4. Waffle Knitted Long Cardigan $182
5. Cropped Boxy Sweater $112
6. Woolen Biker Jacket w/Leather Sleeves $390
7. Drapy Shirt $112
8. Hooded Overlapping Sweater $140
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This n That: Currently Makin Me Smile

{Delicious Okanagan honey crisp apples}

I couldn't be more excited to have an approximate move in date for the end of next week. For some weird reason the drive from Vancouver to White Rock as seemed unusually longer then normal and I think it has something to do with the anticipation of the big move ahead. I am thrilled to get settled in our new home and stop living out of boxes temporarily placed in my parents garage. I thought I would share a few of the things currently making me smile. This was supposed to be last Fridays post however better late then never. Hope you all had a great weekend and of course Happy Monday.

{Fresh flowers from someone special}

 {Crystal skull filled with vodka}

{Latest purchase: very fallesque leaf filigree earrings}

{A rainbow on the drive home from a long day at work}

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Save or Splurge: Classic Combat Boots

Perfect for Fall are these Classic Combat Boots or as I like to call them Granny boots. I came across the Rag & Bone boots on Shopbop and instantly fell in love. But frantically clicked my track pad and on to the next as the price was without question. While shopping along 4th in Kitsilano during the weekend I stumbled upon the exact boot in the window of a boutique and of course they were even better then imagined. For a tiny fraction of the price Forever 21's Mid Shaft Suedette Bootie has the lace up detail without the crazy price tag, and I bet they are even cuter in person just like the Rag & Bone. 

What's your take? Are you an Urge to Splurge shopper or do you Crave to Save?
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Plato's Closet

For you frequent U.S shoppers who love to cross the line and snag a deal, I share with you Plato's Closet. A perfect place to turn clothes in for cash! Yes, that means no waiting around for months until your clothes actually sell on the rack to collect your coinage. Its as simple as clothes in exchange for U.S cash the same day you drop them off.

I am a huge believer in organization and friends of mine will tell you that my closet is no different. As soon as a piece is recognized as unworn for a given amount of time (I usually give it a max of 2 years) then something needs to be done about it. If the piece cost a pretty penny and is worth keeping for the sake of coming back into style or eventually turning vintage, then its obvious to hold on to. If a piece is good costume material for future dress up and theme parties then it gets put into the costume trunk to be used for future use. Now if a piece was inexpensive, outgrown, or simply something you have not worn in forever then why not make a pretty penny to put towards your next new purchase?

Plato's Closet has many locations and the closest one to us Vancouverites is in Bellingham, Washington a few stores up from Ross. If not a Vancouverite check the website to see if there is a Plato's Closet near you. Check out the website to see how it works. If making the trip down South and have unwanted clothes or shoes this is a great place to check out.

Tip: Depending on your items they do not always accept everything. Be sure to check out the website to see there most wanted items here. Also if you make the trip and are left over with a few unwanted pieces, there is a Value Village up the street where you can donate your left over items.

Nothing is better then using your easy earnings towards a guilt free purchase.
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Giving Thanks

I thought today of all days is an appropriate day to give thanks. There is so much in my life that I am thankful for and can not express enough how grateful I truly am. 

I must give a huge thank you to cupcakes and cashmere. If it wasn't for this blog I would have never even known what blogging was about. It was love at first sight and what inspired me to create a blog of my own.

Most importantly thank you to my readers and to those who follow my blog. A big thanks to those who comment on my posts, you are what inspires me to keep blogging. Thank you to Belle Epoque, Common Sole, Fun and Finance, and Shannon Alex and Raspier for linking their blogs to mine.

Thank you to my family, they are my rock and without them I would be lost. By family I mean my loving parents and boyfriend, my 2 brothers and all my extended family and friends. You know who you are, each and every one of you are amazing and I am so lucky to have you all in my life.

Often the simple things in life are taken for granted and aren't realized how precious they are until gone. I hope each and everyone of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving spent with the ones you love and care about. May you over indulge in all the fixings that bring family together good food, good company and of course good wine.

Happy Thanksgiving,

xo
B
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Pretty Pumpkin Decor

Always inspired by different decorating techniques I could not help myself but to go a lil pumpkin crazy on Pinterest. If you know about Pinterest already then you know how addicting it can become. In transition between moves I am slightly bothered by the fact that I am unable to pull out my Halloween decor and start decorating my lil condo. It saddens me to know they are buried deep in some box in the garage and may not make an appearance this year. So to drown my sorrows, I have found numerous pins of pretty pumpkins and hope to inspire some of you to have fun decorating your own this Halloween Season. I love all of these ideas especially the glitter pumpkins. For those of you making your way to the pumpkin patch soon, happy pumpkin picking! 

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Cheddar Chive Scones

Chicken Caesar Salad is a huge staple in our family. It serves as a great, easy and light meal and perfect accompanied with bread. I was in the mood for something different then garlic bread so I used this recipe to make fresh Cheddar Chive Scones. Nothing too complicated, these were easy to whip up before dinner and I used fresh chives from my veggie garden. The key here is to not over mix the dough to ensure soft and tender bites. Great paired with a soup or salad these flaky delights will not disappoint.

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Trend: Ponchos & Capes

What better way then to wrap up in a cozy knit Poncho or Cape this season. We all know what to expect when it comes to Vancouver weather. So instead of complaining about it and wishing upon hot tropical vacations (excluding you part timers that now currently whip down to Palm Springs, you know you are ;) why not embrace it, and it make it a perfect excuse to go shopping for something warm and comfortable. The thought of being cold terrifies me so I love the idea of this trend. Cuddle up in one to watch a movie, throw one on at the office, or bundle up to head out for some groceries. Either way you will stay warm and oh so cozy. 

1. Wilfred Free Caron Cape $110
2. Wilfred Free Lysa Cape in Nordic Pattern $135
3. 3.1 Phillip Lim Hooded Poncho w/Cascade Hem $425 $212.50
4. T. Bataton Hamptons Cape $145
5. T. Bataton Buckley Poncho $165
6. Theory Long Wool Blend Poncho $435  $304.50
7. All Saints Yossi Cape $295
8. All Saints Erbus Cape $195
9. H&M Poncho $41
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Trend: The Perfect Black Bag

I have been on the hunt for the perfect black handbag since last Winter, every time I get my hands close to one I love I can't seem to pull the trigger. This year I am making no excuses and have a few in mind that I adore. Now all it comes down to is a choice of size. I have been saving my pennies for #1 Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Messenger bag but then I came across #15 Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Karlie Bag. The only big difference is the size and the chain strap which is what happened to catch my eye at a first glance. Since these bags are not cheap I decided to compile a bunch of different picks in hopes that putting them side by side would help make my decision easier. So far I still can not decide. One thing I do know is that I am going to wait until Shopbop's big sale event which happens usually twice a year. Depending on how much you spend you save money. Don't worry I will keep you posted on the details. Last year it took place in November so I am assuming it is closer then we think. This is the sale to stock up on anything that you like designer. The more you spend the more you save. And let me tell you, picking your pieces up is almost better then Christmas.

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Natasha Messenger Bag $348
2. Urban Outfitters Deux Luxe Snake Chain Crossbody Bag $49
3. Topshop Clip Slouch Shoulder Bag $56
4. Coach Madison Leather Sophia Satchel $358
5. Tory Burch City Hobo $434
6. Rebecca Minkoff Mini 3 Zip Clutch $195
7. Coach Madison Leather Lindsey Satchel $398
8. Kate Spade Cobble Hill Ellen $225
9. H&M Bag $19.99 $9.99
10. Tory Burch Dena Messenger Bag $365
11. Urban Outfitters Cooperative Foldover Lady Bag $49
12. Tory Burch Logo Clutch with Chain $325
13. Rebecca Minkoff Mini MAC Clutch $195
14. JJ Winters Small Fringe Bag $165

15. Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Karlie Crossbody Flap Bag $258
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