My fave resource lately is Blog TO. While I am, perhaps, the last blog-reading Toronto resident to discover this site, I am certainly making good use of it.
A while ago, I read its post, containing the photos below, about two eco-upgraded residences in two noteworthy, central neighbourhoods (the Beach and High Park). These 'hoods are all-the-more noteworthy for their former, family-friendly populism and somewhat recent addition to the not-so-affordable category.
Let's face it, this entire city (economic downturn notwithstanding) is a very expensive place in which to buy property. A rat-infested crap hole, in an undesirable (though admittedly central) spot, will run you $500K without blinking. Something actually nice and central - and not even that central - can easily cost almost double. And when you start to upgrade said central, somewhat nice residence, well now, that's special.
So when I read about chichi renos in newly chichi areas, part of me wants to live the dream and another part of me wants to vomit with an envy-induced hate-on.
Behold one such project:
Admittedly, I wouldn't be caught dead living in the Beach. It's so out there East End :-) But I admire the clean (if somewhat derivative) lines of this upgraded semi. What you should realize is that the renos alone cost 400K (that's documented in the article). The original box, well I imagine that was easily half a mill 10 years ago.
No offense to the proud homeowners who undoubtedly love the place (of course I like it too). I just don't think I could justify that price tag for this outcome.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Roll Over
Hey everyone: I've updated my links by removing those that were inactive and adding some I've been very remiss about. If anyone's gone missing, please let me know. K
Thursday, February 26, 2009
No Doubt You Will ....love Maegan
You know how I don't lie to you, my bloggie friends. Many's the time one of you has commented or emailed to tell me how spot on my "check out this site" posts are. Cuz it's all about me, after all!
At any rate, one of the blogs I've been reading for a while - ...love Maegan - is a total gem. I just wish I could remember how I found it so that I could thank the referring blogger.
Maegan, a true California girl, posts sometimes-sweet, sometimes-artful photos of herself but, more excitingly, she speaks about her life with impressive candor. Right now, in some ways, things haven't been going exactly as planned for her, but this is one woman who takes lemons and makes lemonade. Hell, she takes lemons and makes Long Island iced tea!
Here's the thing (and you know that I am rarely so reductionist): Let's imagine Maegan decided to stop writing insightfully, misplaced her zany sense of humour, considerable style and went all bland. She'd still be so insanely gorgeous - like sit at a diner and get picked up by an agent gorgeous - that you'd be compelled to check out her photo posts (aka eye candy)! Not that I'm implying she's my blogosphere girl crush.
Cuz that would be over share. :-)
At any rate, one of the blogs I've been reading for a while - ...love Maegan - is a total gem. I just wish I could remember how I found it so that I could thank the referring blogger.
Maegan, a true California girl, posts sometimes-sweet, sometimes-artful photos of herself but, more excitingly, she speaks about her life with impressive candor. Right now, in some ways, things haven't been going exactly as planned for her, but this is one woman who takes lemons and makes lemonade. Hell, she takes lemons and makes Long Island iced tea!
Here's the thing (and you know that I am rarely so reductionist): Let's imagine Maegan decided to stop writing insightfully, misplaced her zany sense of humour, considerable style and went all bland. She'd still be so insanely gorgeous - like sit at a diner and get picked up by an agent gorgeous - that you'd be compelled to check out her photo posts (aka eye candy)! Not that I'm implying she's my blogosphere girl crush.
Cuz that would be over share. :-)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Just Add Water
I was vaguely dismayed to discover, on conversing with M lately - while en route to one of our fancy Friday night dinners, that her favourite foods are (in this order): hot dogs, pizza, tacos and guacamole. Oh, and somewhere around number 8 or 9 is a litany of baked goods with chocolate.
My point: not a rabbit stew or mushroom feuillete to be had.
When I broke it down, it occurred that we do go to this excellent Neapolitan place that serves a terrific thin crust, Scott does Dad-and-kid night at the El Salvadoran hole-in-the-wall that makes the best tacos in the city (IMO) and only a crazy child doesn't like hot dogs. But I still feel like I'm failing, somewhat, as a "sophisticated urban mom". (Feel free to vomit now.) I mean, the child hangs at some of the best restaurants in the city - what? we can't afford dinner and a babysitter. And she eats the shrimp and the foie gras (admittedly we call it goose butter) and the veal shank. What up with the pedestrian faves?
On Sunday she was watching TVO Kids food porn (Tastebuds), drooling over this slop mess of saucy pasta with veggies. It came to me that we should cook a meal together - a "kid" meal - so I suggested tacos. Who knew how hard it would be to find taco stuff in the grocery store, now under renovation? (Metro, I'm kind of hating you.) Who knew it would somehow cost $30.00?
I tell you, my husband won't let me shop for food.
But fret not. Even though I couldn't find any of the salient ingredients, I managed to come up with this awesome version of Mexican you can make in 10 minutes. Add a pinot noir and subtract the children and you've got yourself a reasonably balanced, yummy, relaxed kind of dinner on the fly.
Now's a good time to uncork the wine.
Then, a la stoner plate lite, you artfully arrange the tortillas around the edge of the plate, throw some saucy "meat" in the middle with some well-placed lettuce (go crazy and add lots), some cheddar sprinked on the side and some salsa wherever you like. If you're nuts, add some kalamata olives and sliced avocado.
I'm telling you, it's pretty and it's tasty! And, unless you eat the whole thing in one go, it isn't bad for the waistline.
M and her little friend ate like they hadn't seen food in weeks. Admittedly, they've both recently overcome the most hideous of stomach flues.
For dessert we had vanilla bean gelato with a homemade oatmeal chip cookie (for scooping, natch).
I was one popular mom. Albeit one out of 1977.
My point: not a rabbit stew or mushroom feuillete to be had.
When I broke it down, it occurred that we do go to this excellent Neapolitan place that serves a terrific thin crust, Scott does Dad-and-kid night at the El Salvadoran hole-in-the-wall that makes the best tacos in the city (IMO) and only a crazy child doesn't like hot dogs. But I still feel like I'm failing, somewhat, as a "sophisticated urban mom". (Feel free to vomit now.) I mean, the child hangs at some of the best restaurants in the city - what? we can't afford dinner and a babysitter. And she eats the shrimp and the foie gras (admittedly we call it goose butter) and the veal shank. What up with the pedestrian faves?
On Sunday she was watching TVO Kids food porn (Tastebuds), drooling over this slop mess of saucy pasta with veggies. It came to me that we should cook a meal together - a "kid" meal - so I suggested tacos. Who knew how hard it would be to find taco stuff in the grocery store, now under renovation? (Metro, I'm kind of hating you.) Who knew it would somehow cost $30.00?
I tell you, my husband won't let me shop for food.
But fret not. Even though I couldn't find any of the salient ingredients, I managed to come up with this awesome version of Mexican you can make in 10 minutes. Add a pinot noir and subtract the children and you've got yourself a reasonably balanced, yummy, relaxed kind of dinner on the fly.
- Yves Ground Round (Original flavour pls. Don't judge it cuz it's vegan. Acutal cooking not required.)
- Old El Paso Burrito seasoning mix (Yes, it's crap, but it tastes good and makes the vegan shit all goopy in the right way.)
- Romaine hearts (Get the organic stuff in the box and you don't have to wash it, though you probably should.)
- Sharp cheddar (Lord help you if it isn't orange.)
- Some kind of salsa (I don't actually like this stuff and even I have three opened jars in the fridge. Mind you, I still bought more.)
- Tortilla chips (We couldn't find shells so we bought organic, flax tortillas = Virtuous!)
Now's a good time to uncork the wine.
Then, a la stoner plate lite, you artfully arrange the tortillas around the edge of the plate, throw some saucy "meat" in the middle with some well-placed lettuce (go crazy and add lots), some cheddar sprinked on the side and some salsa wherever you like. If you're nuts, add some kalamata olives and sliced avocado.
I'm telling you, it's pretty and it's tasty! And, unless you eat the whole thing in one go, it isn't bad for the waistline.
M and her little friend ate like they hadn't seen food in weeks. Admittedly, they've both recently overcome the most hideous of stomach flues.
For dessert we had vanilla bean gelato with a homemade oatmeal chip cookie (for scooping, natch).
I was one popular mom. Albeit one out of 1977.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Can You Get Over This??
Monday, February 23, 2009
Lazy Sunday
You know the saying youth is wasted on the young. Well, as my friend Hilly has been known to opine, "Fuck that shit. It's freedom that's wasted on the free."
And I'm inclined to agree.
One of the truly excellent outcomes of being someone's parent is that I will never take a moment of leisure for granted again. Every stolen minute of "time to think my own thoughts" is preceded with a sigh of gratitude. Every quiet meal (i.e., one during which no one asks me, all smart-aleky, what kind of creature corn forms the ears of), an opportunity to relish silence.
It goes without saying (though I appear to be saying it) that my daughter is a delight whom I am happy to talk to, learn from and eat with much of the time. But man, I enjoy my own company.
On Sunday, Scottie and M went to visit his parents in Oakville. Here's a shot of my delicious dinner alone:
Wait, you want a closeup??
Some of the items are hard to identify from the photo, so here's the menu:
And I'm inclined to agree.
One of the truly excellent outcomes of being someone's parent is that I will never take a moment of leisure for granted again. Every stolen minute of "time to think my own thoughts" is preceded with a sigh of gratitude. Every quiet meal (i.e., one during which no one asks me, all smart-aleky, what kind of creature corn forms the ears of), an opportunity to relish silence.
It goes without saying (though I appear to be saying it) that my daughter is a delight whom I am happy to talk to, learn from and eat with much of the time. But man, I enjoy my own company.
On Sunday, Scottie and M went to visit his parents in Oakville. Here's a shot of my delicious dinner alone:
Wait, you want a closeup??
Some of the items are hard to identify from the photo, so here's the menu:
- Warm water in the mug (neutral)
- Some kind of red wine from the Valentine's dinner party - I threw out the bottle (for umami)
- Green apple (for sweet and tart)
- BBQ brown rice crisps (for salt and crunch)
- Sun dried tomatoes (for salt and tart)
- Applewood smoked cheddar (for umami)
- Sahale Snacks Ksar mix: pumkin seeds, pistachios, sesame seeds, dried figs, honey, harissa (for sweet and spice)
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Still Life: Flowers
Friday, February 20, 2009
Branch Out
Don't you wish you had a petrified tree objet d'art sitting next to your wine collection?
Don't you wish you had that wine collection?
Thursday, February 19, 2009
This Is High On Drugs
Usually my husband won't let me go food shopping with him. He calls me (lovingly, natch) "the liability". On the weekend, however, I managed to tag along for the ride. Just to make things a bit easier aka more expensive and off-list.
I'm telling you, there's some scary stuff at the grocery store:
Um, am I the only one who sees the irony in this shit? I'll have you know that the box has no actual flavour ascribed to it. It's simply chocolate "coloured" with REAL chocolate chips.
Cuz you know how low brow the fake ones are.
I'm telling you, there's some scary stuff at the grocery store:
Um, am I the only one who sees the irony in this shit? I'll have you know that the box has no actual flavour ascribed to it. It's simply chocolate "coloured" with REAL chocolate chips.
Cuz you know how low brow the fake ones are.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Designer Jellies
In case you're looking to buy some of those Vivienne Westwood plastic shoes, it looks like Balisi on College is selling the whole collection. I'm intrigued to note how affordable they are for Westwood shoes (the ones shown here are about $150.00 and the flats, not shown, are $69.00).
Intriguingly, in the space of 5 minutes, no fewer than 3 stylish women walked in the store, excitedly picked them up, and then opined loudly to anyone within earshot, "Wow, these would really make your feet sweat, don't you think?"
In truth, that's the only reason I won't chance them. Well, that, and the fact that I'm secretly afraid they are a perfect environment for causing the worst friction blisters ever. Not that jellies are high on my list of must-haves. These are just so elegant.
Do let me know if you take the risk.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Melt With Me
We had a delicious Valentine's evening, scarfing down such a volume of Brie and Wild Mushroom Fondue that I barely had room for dessert?! (Don't worry, I struggled through.)
The photos above capture the detail, but I had to use a flash - what with the moody, fancy steak-house quality of my dining room lighting - I mean chalet.
So here's a (flash-free) shot to capture the vibe:
The photos above capture the detail, but I had to use a flash - what with the moody, fancy steak-house quality of my dining room lighting - I mean chalet.
So here's a (flash-free) shot to capture the vibe:
Monday, February 16, 2009
All Tied Up
OK, you might remember that a) I have lamented never having been able to wear a lady, silk-bow blouse because of the boobs and b) my husband, unbeknownst to himself (except when the bill came / the boxes were opened on Xmas day) got me some lovely things at Club Monaco.
Amazingly, a la Christmas miracle-lite, I found a terrific version, bow included, that doesn't make me look like tits on a trunk.
Behold:
Given the style's general, sharp juxtaposition with my natural frame, I am soooo excited to have found this particular top. It's a great lesson in continuing to look, with an open mind, for flattering versions of the fashions that thrill you.
Oh, and did I mention, it was on sale from $100.00 to $59.00???
Amazingly, a la Christmas miracle-lite, I found a terrific version, bow included, that doesn't make me look like tits on a trunk.
Behold:
Given the style's general, sharp juxtaposition with my natural frame, I am soooo excited to have found this particular top. It's a great lesson in continuing to look, with an open mind, for flattering versions of the fashions that thrill you.
Oh, and did I mention, it was on sale from $100.00 to $59.00???
Sunday, February 15, 2009
I Feel Fine...
I promised to show the jeans, once hemmed, so here is the first pair, the Superfines (I like to call them Sooopafines) for your review:
Yes, that's a photo of my ass. Don't judge me for my vanity. That ass cost $250.00.
And here's a shot of the (very decent, very maternity-friendly rise):
Again, I'm only revealing it because it's a testimony to the black art magical powers of the freakin' jeans. Anyone who knows me knows that my stomach has never looked so flat. Call it, getting my money's worth!
And wait till you see it with a new top - one my husband "bought me" for Xmas...
Yes, that's a photo of my ass. Don't judge me for my vanity. That ass cost $250.00.
And here's a shot of the (very decent, very maternity-friendly rise):
Again, I'm only revealing it because it's a testimony to the black art magical powers of the freakin' jeans. Anyone who knows me knows that my stomach has never looked so flat. Call it, getting my money's worth!
And wait till you see it with a new top - one my husband "bought me" for Xmas...
Saturday, February 14, 2009
My Funny Valentine
Friday, February 13, 2009
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Good Vibrations
So, remember the spendathon? Well, it commenced (unsurprisingly) at a sex shop.
Note to father: Stop reading now.
Now, I don't want to step on Tanya's toes. Truly, her infomercial on the thing was the catalyst for my most recent $$$ sex toy purchase. But I do want to speak about it in general:
The We Vibe is the latest in his 'n hers motorized fun. In brief this "adult lifestyle luxury product" (yes, these people need a new marketing manager), provides clitoral, g spot and penile stimulation, as it can be worn during penetrative sex.
Ain't it amazing how just the right language can totally kill your buzz?
Predictably, this isn't your go-to site for personal vibe reviews, but I am a recent and die-hard fan. I heartily (ha) suggest that you consider it, or some other fun toy, in the near future.
Why? Well, sex toys:
The We is not, however, a negligible purchase. It costs about $140.00 and you can't exactly return it if it doesn't flip your switch. Mind you, there are hundreds of other great options, for both sexes, in numerous price ranges. One is bound to be an affordable risk.
And, c'mon peeps, don't you deserve a little midwinter love?
I thought so.
Note to father: Stop reading now.
Now, I don't want to step on Tanya's toes. Truly, her infomercial on the thing was the catalyst for my most recent $$$ sex toy purchase. But I do want to speak about it in general:
The We Vibe is the latest in his 'n hers motorized fun. In brief this "adult lifestyle luxury product" (yes, these people need a new marketing manager), provides clitoral, g spot and penile stimulation, as it can be worn during penetrative sex.
Ain't it amazing how just the right language can totally kill your buzz?
Predictably, this isn't your go-to site for personal vibe reviews, but I am a recent and die-hard fan. I heartily (ha) suggest that you consider it, or some other fun toy, in the near future.
Why? Well, sex toys:
- Promote good sex - alone or with others.
- Are fun to "get to know".
- Give you the option to stimulate the economy and something else.
The We is not, however, a negligible purchase. It costs about $140.00 and you can't exactly return it if it doesn't flip your switch. Mind you, there are hundreds of other great options, for both sexes, in numerous price ranges. One is bound to be an affordable risk.
And, c'mon peeps, don't you deserve a little midwinter love?
I thought so.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Urban Legend
You may be aware that Scott, M and I do Friday night dinner with our great friends Steen and Nicole. Recently, we discovered that we've been hanging at 6 of TO's top 12 restaurants, 2008. Somehow, given our group propensity to throw icky amounts of disposable income on yummy food, we were not surprised.
While on a hunt to try them all (at least all the ones with in a 30 minute walk from either of our residences) we had a chance to drink, apres dinner (and sans kid), a couple of Fridays ago at The Black Hoof. Who knew a charcuterie could make such fine cocktails?
However, this post is not so much about that debaucherous moment. It's more about dinner at what I imagine will be on 2009's Best Restaurant list: Giancarlo Wine and Pasta Bar. The pics from the link don't quite do it justice. Nor, regrettably does the one below, taken with the cell phone in the rather moody cavern:
Let me just say, this place (much like its venerable Trattoria GianCarlo sibling) is just beautiful. All the building materials have been reclaimed from other environments. The workmanship is fantastic, the staff friendly, the food delicious and the mood sexy.
In fact, a propos of my recent compulsion to eat my body weight in carbs (what is going on, people???), I had not one, but two mains (plus starter, natch), during my delightful dinner excursion. I'd like to tell you I ordered two different mains, but alas, that would be a lie.
Rest assured that the pasta with pesto and smoked chicken defies its boring nomenclature. And, if they like you, you get to order from the fancy Trattoria menu. Which, of course, I forced my co-eaters to do. The Trat's warm chocolate cake with salty caramel is so description-defying, I often dream about it.
PS: Getting out of there for $100.00 (the "reviewer price range") is a pipe dream when you're dining with my crowd. We enjoyed everything, plus lots of booze, and our bill was far in excess of that. Well worth it for the experience though. If you're in town, you should definitely try it out.
While on a hunt to try them all (at least all the ones with in a 30 minute walk from either of our residences) we had a chance to drink, apres dinner (and sans kid), a couple of Fridays ago at The Black Hoof. Who knew a charcuterie could make such fine cocktails?
However, this post is not so much about that debaucherous moment. It's more about dinner at what I imagine will be on 2009's Best Restaurant list: Giancarlo Wine and Pasta Bar. The pics from the link don't quite do it justice. Nor, regrettably does the one below, taken with the cell phone in the rather moody cavern:
Let me just say, this place (much like its venerable Trattoria GianCarlo sibling) is just beautiful. All the building materials have been reclaimed from other environments. The workmanship is fantastic, the staff friendly, the food delicious and the mood sexy.
In fact, a propos of my recent compulsion to eat my body weight in carbs (what is going on, people???), I had not one, but two mains (plus starter, natch), during my delightful dinner excursion. I'd like to tell you I ordered two different mains, but alas, that would be a lie.
Rest assured that the pasta with pesto and smoked chicken defies its boring nomenclature. And, if they like you, you get to order from the fancy Trattoria menu. Which, of course, I forced my co-eaters to do. The Trat's warm chocolate cake with salty caramel is so description-defying, I often dream about it.
PS: Getting out of there for $100.00 (the "reviewer price range") is a pipe dream when you're dining with my crowd. We enjoyed everything, plus lots of booze, and our bill was far in excess of that. Well worth it for the experience though. If you're in town, you should definitely try it out.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Not to Distract You From My Other Posts...
...Which are arguably at least partially about something other than the illness that's floating around the K.Line household, but check out Secret Spineless Whine if you want to see how I spent last night.
I feel like I'm losing it sometimes.
I feel like I'm losing it sometimes.
Rich and Famous
So, you know how I went on the spree of the season Friday afternoon. In an hour I managed to buy, among other things, two pairs of awesome jeans and a little something to up my glamour quotient:
Given my dramatic sun (and autograph) aversion, I think this bug-meets-cats eye frame will be just the thing.
Of course, next week, when they're ready, I will post a photo of me wearing the new sunnies. Not that I could see for shit while trying them on, but I really hope - I mean I'm sure - they will be ultra-chic with my pixie hair.
Please note, by way of apologizing unnecessarily for purchasing aka "doing my part for a flailing economy", that my current sunglasses (bought in a moment of cheerful cheapness) have never fit properly and are about to, literally, fall apart. And since I am a girl who can't wear contacts / has a significant prescription, buying quality is imperative. The minute I put them on, I could tell they were made for my face, and will block any ray of sun stupid enough to glare at my princess-y, prone to strain peepers.
And, given it was payday and I've been vaguely watching my pennies lately, I had a lovely (not exactly regular) experience of buying them with cash.
Given my dramatic sun (and autograph) aversion, I think this bug-meets-cats eye frame will be just the thing.
Of course, next week, when they're ready, I will post a photo of me wearing the new sunnies. Not that I could see for shit while trying them on, but I really hope - I mean I'm sure - they will be ultra-chic with my pixie hair.
Please note, by way of apologizing unnecessarily for purchasing aka "doing my part for a flailing economy", that my current sunglasses (bought in a moment of cheerful cheapness) have never fit properly and are about to, literally, fall apart. And since I am a girl who can't wear contacts / has a significant prescription, buying quality is imperative. The minute I put them on, I could tell they were made for my face, and will block any ray of sun stupid enough to glare at my princess-y, prone to strain peepers.
And, given it was payday and I've been vaguely watching my pennies lately, I had a lovely (not exactly regular) experience of buying them with cash.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Finally, A Tag I'm Responding To...
Of course, it's the last one in (but it's easy), which is why it's getting the fast attention.
I should mention, at this point, that I LOVE being tagged and I appreciate it tremendously and I am hideously remiss in not responding to the many I've received over the last couple of months. It is not because I don't value the concept or the gesture. It's because, right now, I seem to suck at responsiveness. Please bear with me...
So, Sal gifted me with the fascinating "Show me your Blogspot" tag:
The rules:
1. Once you are tagged, post a picture of where you blog.
2. Feel free to tell us a little about your space, or explain certain items in more detail. Or not.
3. Link back Daddy Likey's original post.
4. Tag five other bloggers to show their blog spots.
5. If you are tagged and do not participate, you will become allergic to cabbage.
Honestly, I'm already allergic to cabbage - at least in as much as I won't touch the stuff. But I am nonetheless compelled to present you with the (rather unassuming) blog space:
Yes, that is an Ikea chair. But the table is handmade, awesome story, and I bought it at the Trinity Bellwoods art sale a few summers ago (bargaining the price down to $500.00 including delivery). When the delivery guys - also the creators of this beautiful design - put it in the living room, everybody sighed audibly with delight. It was the perfect table in the perfect spot. What I particularly love about it is the warm and cold juxtaposition. The recovered pine rectangles are 6 inches thick and affixed to a modern, steel frame. It matches everything and nothing at the same time. And my legs sit on it at just the right height.
So, I not-so-secretly wanna see the blog spots of:
Tanya Espanya
Monkey
Songy
Bel - I don't think you've done it, have you??
Girl Japan
I should mention, at this point, that I LOVE being tagged and I appreciate it tremendously and I am hideously remiss in not responding to the many I've received over the last couple of months. It is not because I don't value the concept or the gesture. It's because, right now, I seem to suck at responsiveness. Please bear with me...
So, Sal gifted me with the fascinating "Show me your Blogspot" tag:
The rules:
1. Once you are tagged, post a picture of where you blog.
2. Feel free to tell us a little about your space, or explain certain items in more detail. Or not.
3. Link back Daddy Likey's original post.
4. Tag five other bloggers to show their blog spots.
5. If you are tagged and do not participate, you will become allergic to cabbage.
Honestly, I'm already allergic to cabbage - at least in as much as I won't touch the stuff. But I am nonetheless compelled to present you with the (rather unassuming) blog space:
Yes, that is an Ikea chair. But the table is handmade, awesome story, and I bought it at the Trinity Bellwoods art sale a few summers ago (bargaining the price down to $500.00 including delivery). When the delivery guys - also the creators of this beautiful design - put it in the living room, everybody sighed audibly with delight. It was the perfect table in the perfect spot. What I particularly love about it is the warm and cold juxtaposition. The recovered pine rectangles are 6 inches thick and affixed to a modern, steel frame. It matches everything and nothing at the same time. And my legs sit on it at just the right height.
So, I not-so-secretly wanna see the blog spots of:
Tanya Espanya
Monkey
Songy
Bel - I don't think you've done it, have you??
Girl Japan
Friday, February 6, 2009
They Call Them Superfine for a Reason
You know how I've been feeling like shit. And, gotta say, I haven't been looking my red letter best. Well I dropped out of Friday night dinner with S&N - a meal I enjoy tremendously - because, with lingering sore throat and cluster cankers all over my mouth and menstrual misery etc., well, I just needed to lie on the couch and eat macaroni and cheese.
I also needed to have my glasses adjusted in rather a dire way. So I detoured into Spectacle on my walk home. (Yes, I still walk hours a day in freezing cold, despite feeling wretched. Why, I'm starting to wonder.) And what ensued - so strangely, given how I feel - is one of those shopping kismet experiences one really cannot predict. I mean, it was one of those experiences which results in the credit card company rep asking to speak to you, after keeping you on frickin' hold for 10 minutes, because she suspects fraud. And it surprises me because I needed precisely one thing (though, as always I've had a few things penciled on the mental list) and, till today, I hadn't spent a dime except on toothpaste and vitamins in more than a month.
I'm not going to detail all the items here and now. Where would be the element of surprise in that??
I will say, however, that I made use of Stylefind's great sale alert, and hit Jonathan & Olivia, a chichi boutique I've written about in some detail before. It was having a truly amazing sale and I still managed to buy the one item at full price.
And something on sale too.
Let me just say I've become one of those idiots who spends $220.00 on jeans. And another $125.00 on jeans on sale. Both pairs - the first aptly named "Superfine" to describe the sight of my trumped up ass in them, and the second, a pair of indigo, skinny Earnest Sewn's - are truly the MILFiest things I've ever owned. What do you mean, Kristin, you may ask. What makes them scream "fuckable mom"?
Well, having had 10 minutes (while waiting on hold with the credit card company) to consider this pertinent question, I can answer it with confidence. MILF jeans are not defined by their cut or the denim, the colour or even the stitching. No, MILF jeans are defined by the height of the rise.
Cuz let's face it, no self-respecting regular woman who has lived through the alien distention of her abdomen to hatch a human being, is going to be caught dead (much less sexy) wearing jeans that button at the pubic bone.
I am happy to tell you that the makers of Superfine and Earnest Sewn are in touch with this reality. And that's how they get away with charging you the price of a cheap ticket to Boston on a pair of pants that aren't even lined.
Photos and other tales to follow. Promise. But I'm curious to know who else (mother or no) has owned either of these brands. Please share your tales.
I also needed to have my glasses adjusted in rather a dire way. So I detoured into Spectacle on my walk home. (Yes, I still walk hours a day in freezing cold, despite feeling wretched. Why, I'm starting to wonder.) And what ensued - so strangely, given how I feel - is one of those shopping kismet experiences one really cannot predict. I mean, it was one of those experiences which results in the credit card company rep asking to speak to you, after keeping you on frickin' hold for 10 minutes, because she suspects fraud. And it surprises me because I needed precisely one thing (though, as always I've had a few things penciled on the mental list) and, till today, I hadn't spent a dime except on toothpaste and vitamins in more than a month.
I'm not going to detail all the items here and now. Where would be the element of surprise in that??
I will say, however, that I made use of Stylefind's great sale alert, and hit Jonathan & Olivia, a chichi boutique I've written about in some detail before. It was having a truly amazing sale and I still managed to buy the one item at full price.
And something on sale too.
Let me just say I've become one of those idiots who spends $220.00 on jeans. And another $125.00 on jeans on sale. Both pairs - the first aptly named "Superfine" to describe the sight of my trumped up ass in them, and the second, a pair of indigo, skinny Earnest Sewn's - are truly the MILFiest things I've ever owned. What do you mean, Kristin, you may ask. What makes them scream "fuckable mom"?
Well, having had 10 minutes (while waiting on hold with the credit card company) to consider this pertinent question, I can answer it with confidence. MILF jeans are not defined by their cut or the denim, the colour or even the stitching. No, MILF jeans are defined by the height of the rise.
Cuz let's face it, no self-respecting regular woman who has lived through the alien distention of her abdomen to hatch a human being, is going to be caught dead (much less sexy) wearing jeans that button at the pubic bone.
I am happy to tell you that the makers of Superfine and Earnest Sewn are in touch with this reality. And that's how they get away with charging you the price of a cheap ticket to Boston on a pair of pants that aren't even lined.
Photos and other tales to follow. Promise. But I'm curious to know who else (mother or no) has owned either of these brands. Please share your tales.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
You Want Somma This?
My friend Sandra, who's had a number of mentions lately in this forum, recently bought an insanely expensive - marked down by a zillion dollars, and still expensive - bad ass leather vest.
Very biker girl meets lady who lunches.
And this sweet thing reminds me of it:
Oh, you can get it this spring at Club Monaco. I actually found this photo on the website. Is it possible they've hired some web intern??
Very biker girl meets lady who lunches.
And this sweet thing reminds me of it:
Oh, you can get it this spring at Club Monaco. I actually found this photo on the website. Is it possible they've hired some web intern??
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
SPecifics
In light of great reader response to my ramblings on the Stoner Plate, I thought I'd regale you with a few of its building blocks a la Krissie.
Note that this method is not only a boon for modern parents (you can pull together dinner in 10 minutes - no matter the fussiness of the kid - while doing homework simultaneously), but also works wonders for the starving uni student (given how many inexpensive and delicious options one can combine).
For young people beginning to learn about cooking - and about what they like - it's a great lesson in food preparation. It also teaches about combining nutritional building blocks (fats, carbs and protein in customized ratios that work for each individual) and about portion size - something many junk-crazed adolescents and adults really should be considering.
So, without further ado, and in no particular order, why not try a meal composed of 3 - 6 of these:
A Word About the Stoner Plate as Spa Plate:
Now, if you're a growing person, it's important to make your SP choices healthy and never count calories.
However, if you have been an adult for the last 20 years, for example, and you've had a baby or three and you work full time, or have been stressed out of your mind lately and have struggled to fit in exercise, and you're looking to maintain or - as part as a series of other healthful lifestyle measures - even diminish your current weight slightly, I suggest you cap the meal at about 400 calories (in 3 to 6 of the savory options above - some, obviously, are more calorie dense than others). Plus, if it's your thing, add a small glass of wine (aka a unit) and a small dessert option. Then voila, you have your evening eating all planned out.
Naturally, weight loss / maintenance - not something I profess to be an expert on in any way, in light of its complex and individual emotional and physiological factors - depends to some extent on:
When one intuits, not merely intellectualizes, that a piece of cake (or an entire pie) is simply food - delicious and lovely to be sure - but not a substitute for anything (except maybe equally yummy cookies :-)), not a path out of darkness, not a friend to confide in - well, then... it starts to occupy its rightful place.
A conflation of (dull and yet personal) occurrences led me from my most destructive time of food abuse. However, a key awareness I developed, is that every meal begins and ends. And a few hours later, there's another one. I don't need to derive everything from this bout of consumption. If I want chocolate, but I've already had a cookie, well can't I wait for the next meal? And, by extrapolation, when I get comfortable with that concept, can't I wait for the next day if it assists me in achieving a goal of weight moderation or maintenance or health?
I'm not sharing this to contribute to a pantheon of "weight discussions" which support controlling one's appetite for ill effect. Look at yourself. If you like what you see, and you're healthy, then stop worrying about it and enjoy that liberty.
If you look at yourself, and you recognize that your habits are undermining your health, happiness and appearance, then be moderate. Be nutritious. Support the you which you want to see emerge by supporting the you you happen to be at this moment. They are one and the same. So stop with the hate. Stop with its by-product, the excuses.
Wow, I feel I should get some kind of Oprah-sanctioned book deal for this. Or a kick upside the head.
Of course, feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.
Note that this method is not only a boon for modern parents (you can pull together dinner in 10 minutes - no matter the fussiness of the kid - while doing homework simultaneously), but also works wonders for the starving uni student (given how many inexpensive and delicious options one can combine).
For young people beginning to learn about cooking - and about what they like - it's a great lesson in food preparation. It also teaches about combining nutritional building blocks (fats, carbs and protein in customized ratios that work for each individual) and about portion size - something many junk-crazed adolescents and adults really should be considering.
So, without further ado, and in no particular order, why not try a meal composed of 3 - 6 of these:
- 4 mini celery stalks with tbsp almond butter
- 8 baby carrots with 2 tbsp. hummus or dip
- Rice crackers (one serving size)
- Brie or any cheese in the known universe, 1 oz
- Moderate bowl of soup (preferably previously homemade or freshly purchased)
- V8 - vodka optional
- 5 mini meatballs with sauce (aim for organic or "faux" i.e. vegetable based protein version)
- 5 chicken nuggets with sauce (aim for organic or "faux" i.e. vegetable based protein version)
- Hard boiled egg
- Olives - 6
- Pickle - 1 unless mini cornichons
- 2 oz Smoked salmon on one slice flax toast (2 tsp. butter or cream cheese optional)
- Apple or pear wedges with chutney
- 2 sectioned and peeled oranges with tbsp olive oil, sundried olives and chili flakes - a bit finicky but great when you have a few extra minutes and you need a jolt of beautiful colour.
- Banana with 2 tbsp cream and dash vanilla
- Asparagus spears (you can even microwave these - carefully)
- Nuts and seeds (1 -2 tbsp)
- Smoked almonds (12 - 20)
- Small serving organic potato chips in saucy flavour - don't overdo portion size.
- 4-5 slices thinly sliced salami rolled up artfully
- Cherry tomatoes
- Tomatoes and feta (1 big tomato, 1 oz feta, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper)
- Cucumber slices
- 2 squares of EXCELLENT chocolate
- 2 organic or homemade / fancy cookies - forgo the crap, it's not worth it
- Baked apple with some butter, 2 tbsp oats a tbsp flour and a tbsp brown sugar. Add some vanilla.
- Plain yogurt with frozen blueberries and tsp. maple syrup. You can thaw the bbs in microwave. Mmmmm
- Protein shake - with hemp protein (raw food), plain yogurt, ice, fruit
A Word About the Stoner Plate as Spa Plate:
Now, if you're a growing person, it's important to make your SP choices healthy and never count calories.
However, if you have been an adult for the last 20 years, for example, and you've had a baby or three and you work full time, or have been stressed out of your mind lately and have struggled to fit in exercise, and you're looking to maintain or - as part as a series of other healthful lifestyle measures - even diminish your current weight slightly, I suggest you cap the meal at about 400 calories (in 3 to 6 of the savory options above - some, obviously, are more calorie dense than others). Plus, if it's your thing, add a small glass of wine (aka a unit) and a small dessert option. Then voila, you have your evening eating all planned out.
Naturally, weight loss / maintenance - not something I profess to be an expert on in any way, in light of its complex and individual emotional and physiological factors - depends to some extent on:
- Stable metabolism - it doesn't need to be fast, but it helps when it's functioning well for your own body chemistry
- Moderation in consumption and exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Managing stress to mitigate thyroid, adrenal and other stress-induced weight affectors. Please see my Health and Lifestyle Theme Week posts for an endless, multi-post discussion of these... and
- Healthful eating
When one intuits, not merely intellectualizes, that a piece of cake (or an entire pie) is simply food - delicious and lovely to be sure - but not a substitute for anything (except maybe equally yummy cookies :-)), not a path out of darkness, not a friend to confide in - well, then... it starts to occupy its rightful place.
A conflation of (dull and yet personal) occurrences led me from my most destructive time of food abuse. However, a key awareness I developed, is that every meal begins and ends. And a few hours later, there's another one. I don't need to derive everything from this bout of consumption. If I want chocolate, but I've already had a cookie, well can't I wait for the next meal? And, by extrapolation, when I get comfortable with that concept, can't I wait for the next day if it assists me in achieving a goal of weight moderation or maintenance or health?
I'm not sharing this to contribute to a pantheon of "weight discussions" which support controlling one's appetite for ill effect. Look at yourself. If you like what you see, and you're healthy, then stop worrying about it and enjoy that liberty.
If you look at yourself, and you recognize that your habits are undermining your health, happiness and appearance, then be moderate. Be nutritious. Support the you which you want to see emerge by supporting the you you happen to be at this moment. They are one and the same. So stop with the hate. Stop with its by-product, the excuses.
Wow, I feel I should get some kind of Oprah-sanctioned book deal for this. Or a kick upside the head.
Of course, feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.
Monday, February 2, 2009
That's Ms. Espanya to You, Bitches.
You know a heretofore virtual friendship has potential when you unwittingly show up in complementary colours, no?
After what seems like months of health misery and blahs and stress and crap weather, I have had a tremendously exciting and enjoyable weekend. In January. In Toronto. I know, it boggles the mind.
Of course, I'm going to drag it out into 7 posts - so insanely action packed has it all been - but I have to start here, on Saturday morning, hanging at Pantry with the entirely gorgeous (and totally hilarious) Tanya Espanya.
Two hours literally flew by and T actually got in 10 words edgewise, so I know she too considers it a success :-) Lest you doubt we are entirely happening urban grlzzz, conversation veered from vacations to vibrators (Monkey, I threw this one in there for you honey), from fashion to food. It was good times, peeps.
No doubt you will see more of her, and of our adventures, when she returns from her jaunt to San Diego. In the meanwhile, try not to hate her.
Oh, and like this wasn't exciting enough, on my way home I stopped into the insanely expensive artisanal cheese shop close to Ossington, spent $26.00 on two small wedges of super special, raw something or other from Spain (it was the theme of the day, ok?), and managed to run smack into Sarah Polley in the process. The lovely, unpretentious and well-known-to-be-reclusive, uber talent was there with her delightful looking boyfriend, and we managed to have one of those incredibly Toronto conversations, the hallmark of which is polite reservation.
Essentially, I bitched about this guy and his two nightmare children, who literally smashed into our bastien of dairy-peacefulness, traumatizing the Yorkie who lives there and threatening to knock over hundreds of dollars worth of chutney. To her credit, Ms. Polley was serene through it all, and sweetly hummed a children's rhyme, making evident the beauty of her singing voice, which is also well known. Fuckin' stars. They are so not like us.
Strangely, I used to do yoga with Sarah when we were both much younger - she, a teenager, I a young adult in teacher training. I mean, it's not like she remembered me, but it's so true that there are, like, 3 neighbourhoods in this entire city. Dare I suggest that mine's the coolest? Ms. T, she of the east end, is gonna kick my ass for saying that.
After what seems like months of health misery and blahs and stress and crap weather, I have had a tremendously exciting and enjoyable weekend. In January. In Toronto. I know, it boggles the mind.
Of course, I'm going to drag it out into 7 posts - so insanely action packed has it all been - but I have to start here, on Saturday morning, hanging at Pantry with the entirely gorgeous (and totally hilarious) Tanya Espanya.
Two hours literally flew by and T actually got in 10 words edgewise, so I know she too considers it a success :-) Lest you doubt we are entirely happening urban grlzzz, conversation veered from vacations to vibrators (Monkey, I threw this one in there for you honey), from fashion to food. It was good times, peeps.
No doubt you will see more of her, and of our adventures, when she returns from her jaunt to San Diego. In the meanwhile, try not to hate her.
Oh, and like this wasn't exciting enough, on my way home I stopped into the insanely expensive artisanal cheese shop close to Ossington, spent $26.00 on two small wedges of super special, raw something or other from Spain (it was the theme of the day, ok?), and managed to run smack into Sarah Polley in the process. The lovely, unpretentious and well-known-to-be-reclusive, uber talent was there with her delightful looking boyfriend, and we managed to have one of those incredibly Toronto conversations, the hallmark of which is polite reservation.
Essentially, I bitched about this guy and his two nightmare children, who literally smashed into our bastien of dairy-peacefulness, traumatizing the Yorkie who lives there and threatening to knock over hundreds of dollars worth of chutney. To her credit, Ms. Polley was serene through it all, and sweetly hummed a children's rhyme, making evident the beauty of her singing voice, which is also well known. Fuckin' stars. They are so not like us.
Strangely, I used to do yoga with Sarah when we were both much younger - she, a teenager, I a young adult in teacher training. I mean, it's not like she remembered me, but it's so true that there are, like, 3 neighbourhoods in this entire city. Dare I suggest that mine's the coolest? Ms. T, she of the east end, is gonna kick my ass for saying that.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
WTF?!?!
My daughter just spent the last hour traumatizing showing me "really good old days videos". Top on her list - no joke - were Britney Bitch's Baby One More Time and (OMG) Thriller. OK, do y'all remember how scary that video was? And not simply for the fashions.
I sense I've become one of those moms who wistfully remembers the past as her child discovers it for the first time. Saying things like "I tried to get tickets to that concert but they were all sold out." and "I loved that song but my mother thought it was louche so she made me turn it off when I blared it on the radio."
Parenting scares the shit out of me. Please discuss.
I sense I've become one of those moms who wistfully remembers the past as her child discovers it for the first time. Saying things like "I tried to get tickets to that concert but they were all sold out." and "I loved that song but my mother thought it was louche so she made me turn it off when I blared it on the radio."
Parenting scares the shit out of me. Please discuss.
Thing I Love
I usually don't "bloggy love" things of which you can't find decent photos on the web. I mean, how am I supposed to do the advertising without decent tools??
But today I bought a pair of undies (g-string, thong, whatever you wanna call them) that are sooo comfy and sooo sexy on account of their perfect fit, I will write about them nonetheless.
The company, Minerva, is Greek. I'd never heard of it till today. The style is the basic Fimelle lace string. You hard core thong wearers - or those who steadfastly refuse to wear them because they contribute to sausaging around the hips - will appreciate the neither too-thick nor too-thin lace band. It's also neither too low-rise nor high-style (hideous on most, to be sure).
I am positive they will work on many hard-to-thong bodies, regardless of size. And they come in the perfect shade of neutral beige (as well as black). Now, I paid about $25.00 for them, which you may think is high on drugs. But you know my stance on the undies that make your ass look good...
Here's a picture of someone else's:
No guarantee that yours will be quite as fantastic, but no harm giving it a go!
Secret trick: Buy them one size up.
But today I bought a pair of undies (g-string, thong, whatever you wanna call them) that are sooo comfy and sooo sexy on account of their perfect fit, I will write about them nonetheless.
The company, Minerva, is Greek. I'd never heard of it till today. The style is the basic Fimelle lace string. You hard core thong wearers - or those who steadfastly refuse to wear them because they contribute to sausaging around the hips - will appreciate the neither too-thick nor too-thin lace band. It's also neither too low-rise nor high-style (hideous on most, to be sure).
I am positive they will work on many hard-to-thong bodies, regardless of size. And they come in the perfect shade of neutral beige (as well as black). Now, I paid about $25.00 for them, which you may think is high on drugs. But you know my stance on the undies that make your ass look good...
Here's a picture of someone else's:
No guarantee that yours will be quite as fantastic, but no harm giving it a go!
Secret trick: Buy them one size up.
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