Shellac Nails

Lately, I have been hearing alot of buzz about Shellac Nails so I decided to check it out for myself. I just got back from getting them done and I'm very excited about how they turned out. I picked "Hot Pink" as my colour as I figured I better go bright before the Summer ends;) I was told at the Salon "Envy Nails" in White Rock that the Shellac would last anywhere up to 14 days and would not loose shine or shimmer due to UV rays. They look very smooth and shiny and feel thick almost "gel" like so it will be interesting to see how long it actually lasts. My nails feel hard and I was told that they will not scratch or smudge like normal nail polish. However, I can say that the price is a little more expensive then the normal manicure but if it lasts as long as I've been told, it will be worth it. Up for trying something new? Look here to find a salon near you that carries Shellac.   

   

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Avocado Peach Salsa

Peaches are in season so I used this recipe to create a yummy Salsa. Why would you buy ordinary Salsa when you can make your own fresh one with whatever you prefer in it. I used fresh tomatoes from my own veggie garden. Enjoy the Salsa as an afternoon snack, ideal with an ice cold Corona and lime wedge, or serve it as a delicious fresh appy on a hot Summer night. If you are a fan of peaches, you will love the added sweet flavour. This recipe is easy to make and something quick that you can throw together before company arrives.

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Inspiration for Home Decor

Browsing through Pinterest, I snagged a few photos that serve as inspiration for home decor. I'm moving to Vancouver soon and am always looking for new themes, ideas and pieces to collaborate with what I already own. I love the idea of open shelving in a office or den. It creates space for storage at the same time using the storage as decoration. I have a soft spot for anything teal or turquoise and loved these two glass vases from Urban Barn. My Mom collects Sid Dickens plaques and introduced them to me this past Christmas. I am the type of person that just can't have one of. So if I were to ever get one, I would start collecting and display them in some sort of pattern on the wall all together. The third photo inspires me to be more retro. I love the old fashioned fan and mixer. Last the knit place mats are something I would purchase to add colour to the dining table or kitchen island. 

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Blueberry and Peach Muffins

Driving along 168th I passed a fruit stand that was selling Okanagan fruit. I pulled over and picked up some fresh blueberries and peaches. Perfect to bake some fresh muffins. I found this recipe and I would definitely use it again, allthough I did switch up the flour to whole wheat instead of white. And next time (because I forgot) would add some Vanilla ;) and some sort of nut, either pecan or sliced almonds on top. Regardless the muffins were delicious and the mix of blueberries and peach were flavourful. A perfect Summer blend. Next time I will bake more and freeze some. Between giving a few to the neighbour and my bf who plays late night hockey a couple nights a week, these 12 muffins didn't last long.

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Trend: Aztec Native

With Fall 2011 literally weeks away I couldn't be more estatic about the Native Trend carrying on from Summer right through Fall. Anything with Aztec motifs, leather, fringe, feathers, and beads will suffice. J Brand jeans as I've mentioned before, my ultimate fav, in many fall colours such as Aubergine, Terra Cotta, Tuscan, Navy, and shown above in Black Cherry. Tuck these into a Minnetonka fringe boot, lace up boot, or House of Harlow flat suede bootie. The options are endless and the style is calling all the shades of fall. Add to your collection of feather accessories and pick up a feather belt, necklace or onesie (earring sold as a single not a double). Posted above are feather shoulder dusters, long enough to to graze the shoulder. Poncho's and wrap sweaters in Navajo-inspired patterns are great to throw on once the temperature drops. When I was a little girl the only thing that would mend my heart at the end of Summer was "back to school to shopping" now that I am older not much as changed, Fall Fashion is high on the list.

1. Diane Von Furstenberg Leena Cropped Sweater $385

2. Urban Outfitters Ecote Pop Embellished Shift Dress $99

3. TNA Taj Bag $45

4. Minnetonka 3 Layer Fringe Boots $90

5. Free People Heather Hip Belt $126.80

6. Chan Luu Geometric Chain Fringe Necklace $93

7. Wilfred Free Kalos Cape $195

8. J Brand 811 Midrise Skinny Black Cherry $170

9. Free People Feather Shoulder Duster $27.68

10. House of Harlow 1960 Killian tie Flat Booties $158

11. Free People Malachite Wrap Ring $27.68

    

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Vanilla Pancakes with Vanilla Yogurt and Berry Topping

  

As you can probably tell by the name of my blog, I have a great fondness for Vanilla. It's warming, soothing and harkens back to simpler, cozy times. The sweet smell gets me every time and the taste is something I often long for whether in a hot drink or incorporating it into a recipe. Pancakes being the treat that they are, I decided to create a little version of my own. I used this recipe to make Vanilla Pancakes and topped them off with obviously Vanilla fat free organic yogurt and heated up frozen berries with a pitch of sugar. Definitely not the healthiest breakfast around but its always nice to enjoy a little change and treat from our regular Hemp Heart Power Smoothie, recipe seen here, or my boyfriend's usual bowl of cereal.

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Vintage Chanel Bracelet

Once I had my hands on this Vintage Chanel Bracelet I felt the need to blog about it. The customer who brought it in to Acme Plating to have it Gold plated must have owned it for many years. I wish now that I had asked at the time how long ago she purchased it. I know that it was long enough to have the Gold plate completely worn off. I recommended when she first brought it in to have it finished in Satin Gold. This would help keep the vintage look once plated in 24 Karat Gold. I am glad I managed to snap a quick picture on my phone once it was finished, I have never seen anything like it before. This is a perfect example of a timeless piece loosing its lust. Go through your Mom's or Grandma's jewellery box and see if there is anything that you could spiff up. Taking an old locket, watch, earrings, ring or bracelet and re finishing it can make the piece new and exciting all over again.
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Trend: Hornby Hippie Style

After spending 2 weeks on Hornby Island this Summer, I got a good feel for the Hornby Hippie Style. Girls at the beach on "Big Trib" were rocking hippie inspired pieces from high waisted swimwear and skirts to round lensed sunnies. Back at the cabin when the day had cooled off it was a good time to slip into a plaid oversized boyfriend shirt or a cozy knit sweater. Whether lounging around the cabin first thing in the morning or later in the evening handmade knit mukluk slippers set a good vibe of pure comfort and relaxation. Bangles, beads, knuckle rings and Indian inspired jewellery were popular, bright and fun especially against a good tan. Overall the look was playful yet comfortable.

1. Ebay Handmade Knit Mukluk Sock Slippers $7.00

2. TNA Tecate Stripe Zip Up Sweater $95

3. Forever 21 Embossed Knuckle Ring $6.80

4. Talula Bandeau Bralette in Tie Dye $25

5. TNA Tofino Hooded Shirt 

6. Free People Medallion Leather Shoulder Bag $126.80

7. T. Bataton Harrison Skirt 

8. Urban Outfitters Aleph by A Peace Treaty Square Necklace $39

9. American Apparel Stripe Mid Length Pocket Tank $33

10. American Apparel Stripe Nylon Tricot High-Waist Swim Brief $30

11. American Apparel Billy Sunglasses $41

12. Urban Outfitters Suede Fringe Wrap Watch $35

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Hornby Island

Hornby Island is a lil slice of paradise located in the Strait of Georgia between B.C mainland and Vancouver Island. My boyfriend's family owns a cabin there and I am lucky enough to attend this beautiful place often, especially in the Summer months. To get there can be quite the trek, three ferries and 5-6 hours of travelling. To travel from B.C take either the Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay ferry to Duke Point on Vancouver Island. (Highly recommended to take a ferry that leaves no later then 1pm.) From Duke Point drive north on the Island Hwy 1 for 1 1/2 hours. Take exit 101 to Buckley Bay & Denman/Hornby Island Ferry and buy a through ticket to Hornby Island. Or you can fly by float plane through Vancity Seaplanes for a reasonable fare ($150 plus tax one way per person) and as quick as 30 minutes. If you are short for time flying can buy you 2 extra days in paradise.

Hornby has so many things to offer, besides its natural beauty, the Island has amazing beaches (some of the nicest I have ever seen in B.C), hiking trails, mountain biking, kayaking, diving, yoga, pottery, art studios/galleries, wineries and many amazing restaurants and cafes with some of the best fresh organic food I've ever tasted. Can you tell I love this place? If you have never been I highly recommend a trip to this true gem. Allthough far to get to, worth every minute once you've arrived. 

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Veggie Container Gardening

I can't be more pleased with the outcome of my first Veggie Container Garden. Inspired by my boyfriend's Mother's garden on Hornby Island I decided to give it a go of my own. To be completely honest I was shocked with how easy it was. With the right amount of sun, water and attention I had full tomatoes, lettuce and green peppers of my own. The satisfaction of eating my own homegrown Veggies is something I could get used to you. If you are new to gardening, all you need is to pick up some plants, container pots, and potting soil from your nearest nursery. I got all mine at Home Depot.  Simply plant them separately in each container and water accordingly. Over time remember to prune the branches, this helps the plant to direct its energy to produce the fruit.

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My Summer Fav's

I know I am a little late with posting my Summer Fav's but better late then never. And when you are nicely tanned what better time then towards the end of the season to rock out your most fav pieces. Whites have never looked better especially when you are freshly sun kissed whether it be a white watch or white denim you can't go wrong. If you are like me and have to deal with fine hair, washing it can become an annoyance. Check out (#2) Got 2 Be Dry Shampoo. This product is great for weekend getaways, vacations or even used to help freshen up before heading out after a long day at work.

1. T. Bataton Second Skin Nautical Stripe Tank $40

2. Got 2 Be Rockin' It Dry Shampoo $6
3. Ash Leather Strappy Delicious Wedge Sandal $176
4. J Brand Low Rise Nimes Cuffed Jean Shorts $140
5. O.P.I Nail Polish "Bright Lights Big Colour" $6.99
6. Michael Kors White Ceramic Watch $450
7. T.Bataton Tinsley Badigeon Blouse $98
8. Havaianas Slim Metallic Brown Flip Flop $24
9. Alexis Bittar Flora Gem Encrusted Ring $171.50
10. Dolce and Gabbana Havana/Brown Sunglasses $114
11. Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Sunscreen 15 SPF $12.99
12. Citizens of Humanity Thompson Cropped White Skinny Jean $107.80

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