take me for a twirl

Share The Love Fridays

2012-02-24T12:31:00.000-05:00

Source: Uploaded by user via Karin on Pinterest

I am loving these wallpapers from Frankie Magazine

This Eary Grey Chocolate Cake looks to die for, good thing I have a bunt pan lurking in my basement...

Bex's attitude is inspiring, especially with where my headspace is now

I started a 50 Books a Year Challenge and just polished off another book last night (A Tiny Bit Marvelous by Dawn French, highly recommended)

This is like blogging inception: a link post within a link post, but seriously Pugly Pixel has great taste, check our her links loved

The Everygirl launched on Wednesday and I am blown away by all the incredible hard work those women put into making it a reality! Talk about some amazing inspiration and motivation for young women out there (hey-that's me!)

In her usual hilarious style Karen gives us a printable Oscar ballot

Eric and Kelsey dish on how to save money without giving up your lifestyle, I just adore those two! (they are expecting their first daughter any minute, so exciting!)

I'm off to a wedding tomorrow of some very dear friends and hopefully on Sunday I can hunker in with my roommates and watch the Oscars, what are your plans? happy weekending!

50 Books in a Year

2012-02-22T15:41:00.001-05:00

I have always loved books. I was constantly being found by my mother, flashlight in hand hiding under the covers reading late into the night, or being told by the school librarian that I had yet again, attempted to borrow too many books. Naturally, I am drawn to beautiful images of books, which hold so much magic and joy for me. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised to have stumbled upon a blog entitled Pretty Books, which I found (of course) via Pinterest, that is devoted to the love of books. Especially, to my delight beautiful pictures of books. For example...

Source: prettybooks.tumblr.com via Loucindy on Pinterest

Source: prettybooks.tumblr.com via Ellen on Pinterest

Source: prettybooks.tumblr.com via Karissa on Pinterest

In addition to pretty pictures and the occasional book review, the author of the blog has an annual challenge to read 50 books in one year, I believe last year she read over one hundred. For full details go here. Seeing as I have recently realized I haven't been reading (it does sneak up on you, doesn't it?) I was more than happy to jump in head first. So, as of today I am committing to reading 50 books in 2012.

{this image was created by me, as the author of Pretty Books had no "buttons" or graphics to accompany her challenge I created my own. Please feel free to use it but link back to Take Me For a Twirl}

January proved to be a slow start (ahem, one book), but February is looking more promising with me having finished the three Hunger Games books! Thank you for your recommendations for what to read afterwards, I am excited to add them to the list of fifty! You can see which books I've read here or by clicking on the 50 Books Challenge in the tabs at the top of the page. I am excited to indulge myself (I do consider reading an indulgence) over the year in at least fifty books. I am all ears for books that you think should be on the list! I am never too broke to spend money on books so recommend away! What do you think of the challenge? Impossible? Genius?

Happy Reading!

Apricot Yogurt Cake

2012-02-22T09:53:00.000-05:00

Yogurt cakes are one of my favourite things to bake. They rarely involve butter, they keep forever and they are incredibly moist and delicious. One of my personal favourites is an apricot yogurt cake that I discovered a few years ago. This recipe comes from the novel Lunch In Paris, a "love story with recipes". While I don't recommend the novel itself, I did try this one recipe and was pleasantly surprised with the results. My favourite way to savour this delicious treat is with a hot cup of coffee for breakfast. I also wouldn't turn it down during afternoon tea.

What you'll need

1 cup of whole milk yogurt
1 cup of sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 pinch of salt
1/3 cup of vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 2/3 cup of flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
the zest of one lemon
1 can of apricot halves (I used peaches for this cake, they weren't as delicious, but that's what you get for shopping on a holiday) I also recommend apples tossed in a little bit of brown sugar and cinnamon or even a few blueberries

What you do

Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees & lightly oil a 10-inch round pan. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper
Whisk together the yogurt, sugar, vanilla and salt.
Add the oil in a steady stream while continuing to whisk.
Add the eggs one at a time.
In a separate bowl sift together the dry ingredients. Whisk into the wet ingredients.
Add the lemon zest.
Pour batter into the pan.
Drain the apricot halves and cut into quarters. Place the quarters over the top of the cake in concentric circles.
Bake for 45 minutes in the centre rack of the oven, a toothpick should come out clean.
Serve and enjoy!

What's a favourite recipe of yours? Happy eating!

Blazing Green

2012-02-21T11:52:00.000-05:00

What I'm Wearing

blazer: Zara

tee: H&M men's department

jeans: Joe's

necklace: Stolen from my friend Amanda (Amanda, I have your necklace)

shoes: Joe Fresh

With all the sunshine that's been showing it's face around these parts, its been impossible to keep wearing the bulky layers of winter. While this blazer doesn't sit well under my parka, it definitely holds it's own in the warmer air of early spring. Having a statement piece like this in my closet gets me exited for warmer days to come. Paired with these killer pointed-toe flats and I'm as set as a girl can be. You simply can't go wrong with a brightly coloured blazer and small bow detailing on your shoes. It's just science...of fashion, which is totally a thing, right?

Happy Family Day

2012-02-20T10:43:00.002-05:00

Happy Family Day xo

I'm a Woman Obsessed

2012-02-19T16:21:00.000-05:00

Source: goodreads.com via Sara on Pinterest

I am a woman obsessed. I bought the trilogy on Friday and I'm already through the first two books. Reading is an expensive habit my friends. What are you reading on this fine weekend? I'm going to need some recommendations at the rate i'm going...

Chez Moi

2012-02-18T18:06:00.000-05:00

Monday marks the beginning of reading week for me and while I don't have any crazy plans (Cancun anyone?) I am looking forward to some much needed time chez moi (that's "my place" for any non Frenchies). I am really excited about spending time with my family and catching up on their lives and what I've missed while I've been at school. I am also so excited to curl up on the couch with my favourite (sorry mom) family member, our dog Hali.

Isn't she beautiful? We adopted her eight years ago from a place near our cottage that takes in litters of stray animals, so we've never been one hundred percent certain of what breed she is, but she definitely has some trademark hound features the least of which is her hound howl. Straight from the fox hunt that one.

She is such a sweet girl and always game for a walk or snuggle on a cold night. Coming home to see her after being away for weeks at a time is just about the greatest thing. It will be great to take her on walks and give her some love. I also plan on cozying up in a few of my favourite threads, especially this outfit (which was featured on Pretty and Fun a little while ago, check it out here). It's perfect for all of my favourite things to do at home: trips to farmer's markets, reading on the couch, taking Hali for a stroll, cooking with my mum, and exploring new places to eat.

oh ya know, just being neighbourly

What I'm Wearing

sweater: Talbots

jeans: Gap

glasses: UO

boots: Hunters

bracelets: Tiffany's

We've already rented a heap of movies, including Annie Hall and my mum has pulled out the recipe books to put me to work, first up is Ina Garten's Green Goddess Dressing, mmmmm. I also foresee a trip to the art gallery and reading the rest of the Hunger Games series (I bought them yesterday and I'm already onto the second one!) All in all, I think it's going to be a great reading week. What are your favourite things to do at home?

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-02-17T10:59:00.000-05:00

Jessica is having a Wes Anderson themed party for her 25th birthday. Serious swoonage going on right now

Annie celebrated Galentines with her girlfriends, Leslie Knope would be proud

These baked artichoke squares look amazing

I am loving these tips for capturing great outfit photos, I'm always looking to improve in that area

This training plan for a half marathon looks totally do-able

I have a song in mind to create this project ...or maybe a favourite poem...or both

I am loving this quote on MML, it spoke directly to me

Blogspiration

2012-02-16T07:53:00.000-05:00

IFB recommends a blog mood board to keep inspiration and creativity flowing. As a visual learner I was excited to start my own. I have been collecting images over the last little while, mostly via pinterest and I wanted to share a few and show you what inspires me.

What keeps you inspired? What gets your creative juices flowing? Anyone else have a blog mood board?

{all images via pinterest}

Pop of Yellow

2012-02-15T09:59:00.000-05:00

What I'm Wearing

Sweater: Ralph Lauren

Chambray Shirt: J. Crew

Jeans: Gap

Boots: Hunters

Watch: Fossil

Glasses: Urban Outfitters

Sometimes a girl needs a little pop of yellow in her wardrobe. This sweater founds it's way to me as a gift from my friend Alexa (thanks girl!) and it is yellow sweater perfection. Cozy, warm, and cheery. Adding a touch of chambray and a messy pony made me a happy girl. Sometimes it's the little things that make the difference, like a cup of coffee and conversation shared with a friend, a smile from a stranger, or a pop of yellow.

Happy Feb 14th

2012-02-14T12:21:00.000-05:00

Source: thisisnthappiness.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Happy Valentines Day!

What are you up to today? Are you doing anything special for those that you love and appreciate? Personally I have a midterm and a paper due *facepalm* but to make up for that I have a dinner date with a certain handsome gentleman planned for later (see what I'm wearing here). I also plan on indulging in ~~a little bit of~~ chocolate and listening to my favourite romantic songs (I secretly love finding out what type of music people listen to, it's a very interesting insight into their brain). Here is just a few songs that can bring a smile to my face...

Syd's Valentines Day playlist

Surprise Me-Sweet Hearts

Heart Skips a Beat-Lenka

Everybody-Ingrid Michaelson

You Picked Me-A Fine Frenzy

King of Diamonds-Motopony

Charmed Life-Joy Williams

Love Story-Taylor Swift

Skinny Love-Bon Iver

Our Kind of Love-Lady Antebellum

Doesn't Mean Anything-Alicia Keys

My One and Only Love-Lila Downs

I Wanna Dance With Somebody-the late great Whitney Houston

Any of your favourites on there? Perhaps not, in that case what are your favourite romantic songs? I'm always keen for a little musical inspiration, especially if it's romantically inclined. Or about candy...

I wish you a treat-filled day of love and sweet moments. Happy Feb 14th friends xo

Valentines Date Night Outfit

2012-02-14T07:10:00.000-05:00

This outfit is the perfect blend of sexy and sweet. The black dress and sky high heels make it a saucy affair while the cardigan (elbow patches!) and glasses add a touch of my own personality in there; beauty and brains. The pearls and sequinned heart clutch are sweet additions that pull the look together.

In addition to being the ideal date night outfit, it also fits the bill perfectly for this month's Bloggers Do It Better Challenge...

{I just want to say that I have fall in love with this picture, and not because I think its particularly flattering but because it shows the real me. All the crooked teeth, can't-hold-a-straight-face-ness, real happiness and unusual nose. I just love it. Hey-you gotta love yourself on Valentines day too!}

What I'm Wearing

dress: American Apparel

cardigan: H&M

purse: Thrifted

pearls: Thrifted

glasses: Urban Outfitters

Shoes: Steve Madden

tights: Gap (..?)

What are your red items on today's agenda? I wish you all a day full of love, for your loved ones and for yourself! Happy Valentines day xo

Giveway Winner

2012-02-13T13:07:00.000-05:00

Rachel from Marriage by Design won the Cartier scarf! Congrats girl! Email me for details sydneymdavis{at}gmail{dot}com

Keep your eyes peeled for another giveaway coming soon...

The Weekend

2012-02-13T08:09:00.000-05:00

This weekend was all about relaxing and eating good food. I am cherishing these weekends with sweet relaxing moments and good company.

This particular one included delicious home made food, tart glasses of wine, and...fort building. Yes, there was fort building.

There was also some last minute valentines day preparations, letters to be mailed, gift bags to be packed and candy to be tucked away.

Valentines day is in t-minus 24 hours and there is still lots to be done. What was your weekend like? I hope equally as relaxing and enjoyable as mine!

PS check back later to see who won the Cartier scarf!

Sunday Musings

2012-02-12T17:01:00.000-05:00

Source: wvs.topleftpixel.com via jenny on Pinterest

Earlier this week I saw a tweet from Robin Sharma, author of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari, that said "take 60 minutes this weekend to craft a blueprint for the next seven days" and that really stuck with me. I have had several interesting moments this weekend that have reminded me to stay focused on my goals and to stay true to my heart, including a skype conversation with one of my favourite people (yes, TG, that's you). I have already made an intention to expect good things to happen instead of bad ones, which has been harder than I anticipated. I have also been sticking to my new years resolutions as I learned that a goal not written down is just a wish. The biggest thing that I realize right now is that I have to commit to my intentions. Writing it down once is not enough. I have to have it at the forefront of my mind and my choices as I go through my days. Having realized that, I am going to share a few of my goals that I will be focusing on this week:

be intentional about how I am spending and saving my money

eat healthy, good food while taking time to be grateful for each meal

stay positive about getting into the Midwifery program

Make good choices when blogging that will help bring me closer to fulfilling my goals

Take time to connect with my family

Accomplish all administrative goals (call the bank, change of address, etc)

Take time for reflection, journal writing and connecting spiritually

Keep the thought "what can I do for others" at the forefront

Take time to read (right now I am reading 7 Habits for Highly Effective People)

It really does feel good to take a moment (or sixty) and clarify what I want to focus on this week. What are your goals this week? Or in general?

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-02-10T08:47:00.003-05:00

Source: ohjoy.blogs.com via Sydney on Pinterest

I would love to a project life like Elise

Jess reminded me of my own goal to expect wonderful things to happen

This just made me laugh

These appetizers looks scrumptious

5 tips for making your dreams come true from Virginie

this one is totally all about me buttttt I got to talk about my favourite outfit over on Pretty and Fun

I am swooning over these DIY glittery love notes

Looking for a few printable valentines? Try these, these or these

Briony made a 30 before 30 list I am loving this idea

What a sweet idea for a valentines gift

Happy weekending!

PS you totally have to enter my Cartier scarf giveaway (yes, I'm serious) because it ends Sunday at midnight!

DIY Bowtie Mug

2012-02-09T11:10:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about what to get the lovely men in my life for valentines day and I was inspired by something I saw on Bright Bazaar (if you aren't following this guy, prepare to get your socks charmed off he is just so...charming). I didn't want to spend a lot of money and I figured I could make my own, which is always a plus. During my epic trip to Michael's I picked up the supplies to bring it to life.

Here is what you need:

mug

permanent markers

(I got the mug and markers as a kit but sharpies will do the trick)

a clear gloss--I used acrylic gel medium

This project took me about an hour, which includes the time needed for drying. I started by sketching out my design on the mug in pencil. Then I drew over my trace with a black permanent marker. Next I filled in the outline with a red (for valentines) marker. In between each step I let it dry for at least ten minutes so as to avoid smudging or blending of colours. Finally I painted over the design with my clear gloss. It looks fantastic filled with delicious valentines day treats!

If you attempt the project let me know how it turns out, I would love to see it! Happy DIYing!

Psssst you can also find me guest posting today over at Pretty and Fun talking about my favourite outfit!

love is all around

2012-02-08T16:59:00.000-05:00

I feel like i'm in grade school all over again; waiting for valentines day to come so I can hand out valentines to my classmates and have an excuse to eat chocolate during the day. I am loving adding small valentines touches around my room and working on a few little presents for my friends and family.

Filling a teacup with candy makes a pretty display

I am loving these free printable valentines (find them here)

creating an inexpensive but thoughtful gift for my parents

a DIY bow-tie mug for a snappily dressed man

Is anyone else as excited about valentines day as I am? What are you doing that is getting you excited?

a little bit of sparkle

2012-02-08T10:27:00.002-05:00

What I'm Wearing

cardigan: H&M

shirt: J. Crew

jeans: Gap

boots: Hunter

sunnies: H&M

watch: Fossil

The weather lately has been cah-razay! Snow, sun, rain, we've had it all! Unusual for Canada but it has allowed me to wear items from the spring/summer collection of my closet *squeee*.

You can't quite see it, but the front of this shirt is covered in tiny translucent sequins. The way they catch the sun is truly lovely. This shirt gives outfits that extra bit of sparkle. Hunters and sparkles feel like an unusual combination but I kind of love the way they work together. Here's to creativity with outfits (and to watching IFB conference!!) I know what i'll be doing the rest of the day, anyone else watching?

have you entered my giveaway to win a Cartier scarf?! enter here to get your fashion on!

Sweet Treats

2012-02-07T07:45:00.000-05:00

It is officially one week till Valentines day and I have to confess to being the most excited I have in years. I have made trips to the craft store, post office and bulk food store all so I can share the love with those that matter most. My mom always gave me something special on valentines day like candy or a new notebook and I love carrying that tradition on with friends. Over the weekend I made a delicious little treat that I have had my eye on over on Pinterest, i'll bet you've seen this one too. Chocolate pretzel bites. Yummm.

First, gather your ingredients: chocolate kisses, pretzels and smarties (or for my southern neighbours, M&Ms). Meanwhile turn the oven up to 250 degrees. Next, place a chocolate kiss on top of each pretzel on a baking tray. Put the tray in the oven for two minutes (watch it carefully!). After two minutes take the tray out and press a smartie onto the top of each melted kiss. Allow to cool for 30 minutes, place in the fridge to ensure the chocolate is solid. Serve and enjoy.

Spread the love my friends! Pop these in little goodie bags for friends and co-workers or serve at a girl's night (how fun does that look?!) Happy eating!

Have you entered my givewaway to win a Cartier scarf? Enter here

Closet Cleaning Giveaway CLOSED

2012-02-06T14:22:00.001-05:00

Today is your lucky day-I am giving away another item from my closet purge. Last week I gave away a beautiful handbag, congrats to Joanne for scoring that one! Today I am giving away a beautiful purple Cartier scarf. I know you are all thinking "is this girl nuts?!" but in all truthfulness this has sat in my closet, unworn, for close to a year. I figured that one of you fashionable people could make it happy and wear the heck out it!

For one entry:

1. Be a follower of Take Me For a Twirl via GFC, bloglovin or RSS feed (say which in the comment)

2. Tell me how you would style this scarf for spring

Bonus entries:

1. Like Take Me For a Twirl on facebook

2. Follow me on twitter

3. Tweet about the giveaway using my twitter handle

Giveaway ends Sunday February 12th at midnight. Good luck!

Weekending+Giveaway Winner

2012-02-06T09:19:00.000-05:00

I had the most perfect weekend.

It was filled with trips to the coffee shop.

and valentines day treat-making

and perfect the perfect pasta recipe for hungry bellies

and walks in the sunshine

What did you get up to this weekend?

Thanks to everyone who entered the first closet cleaning giveaway!

Congrats Joanne shoot me an email at sydneymdavis{@}gmail{dot}com.

If you didn't win don't be too disappointed there are a few more items I will be giving away over the next little while. Happy Monday friends!

Polka Dots & Green Shoes

2012-02-05T14:31:00.001-05:00

What I'm Wearing

top: Old Navy

jeans: Gap

shoes: Thrifted

earrings: F21

purse: Thrifted

Just a little Sunday outfit to share with you today. And some mad photoshop skills, totes ripped off from Sydney's tutorial. Important take-aways:

polka dots are awesome

green shoes are also awesome

photoshop is hard but following instructions is easy

Sundays are the best

Happy Sunday friends!

PS last day to enter the giveaway! Winner announced tomorrow!

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-02-03T07:58:00.000-05:00

These valentines are absolutely adorable

I wept with laughter while reading this article by Mindy Kaling

48 things to be grateful for

seriously love this and wish that was me kissing Ryan Gosling

Gala is the best, reading this was so crucial this week

a relationship tool kit from HelloGiggles

an oldie but a goodie, love Sydney's photoshop tutorial

Loving this Emma Stone smoky eye tutorial, definitely doing this soon (alternatively a two product smoky eye?! Sign me up)

These printable valentines are adorable!

Awkward and Awesome

2012-02-02T11:49:00.000-05:00

~Trying out a new eye liner and only realizing several hours later that in fact it does not like to stay on my eye lid but instead congeal in a thick black puddle underneath my eyes, I mean everyone loves a well dressed raccoon right?

~Having a small panic attack every time I open my email and see an email from Ryerson (university I just applied to) expecting them to tell me that they reviewed my application and "were unable to accept you at this time..." (even though I know perfectly well that I wrote a killer application and they don't make those types of decisions for weeks)

~Having a nail rip right off in the middle of my plant biology lab and picking it up with tweezers....because I could

~Mysterious substances on dirty dishes staring at me practically saying "I dare you to wash me!"

~Making hilarious faces and taking photos of them with photobooth

~The perpetual battle against gravity when taking off and/or putting on boots. 6 ft tall people just aren't graceful when leaning over sideways with one foot in the air

~Mornings that involve coffee in bed

~Launching a new blog collaboration with Emma. Not a plug, it just feels awesome to get it off the ground

~Having days where my hair cooperates and looks good all day

~Making hilarious faces and taking photos of them with photobooth

~Getting a massive package from ModCloth in the mail and opening it like a small child on Christmas

~Planning out Valentines day, it's just plain fun

~Spending a weekend at home with my family and feeling the love that you only get from family

~Coffee dates with scones and good company

#febphotoaday

2012-02-01T14:53:00.001-05:00

I have to confess to kind of missing the boat on the January photo a day challenge, but I am committed to participating in February's challenge from Fat Mum Slim

I love the idea of doing an end of the month re-cap like Cait.

Follow me on Instagram at "takemeforatwirl" or follow here

Happy Feb 1st friends!

New Feature

2012-02-01T13:51:00.000-05:00

I am very excited to announce a new feature here on Take Me For a Twirl! My friend Emma (of Verbal Melange) and I teamed up to create a monthly link up and we are thrilled to be debuting it to the blog world today. It is my pleasure to be introducing...

A monthly link up featuring YOU and your fabulous out-on-the town outfits! Check out the info page here and on Emma's blog here. A quick taste...

Bloggers take the town is a link up where we challenge you to showcase your oh-so fabulous yet rarely seen evening ensembles. Did you go on a date and rock a stunning pair of heels? A beautiful lace dress? Or are you more of a jeans and blazer kind of woman? We want to see it!

The first Bloggers Take The Town will be happening

I can't think of a better way to ring in February!

Oh Canada

2012-01-31T12:53:00.001-05:00

Scarf /Sweater /Blazer /Belt /Cords /Bag
I have to say that mood boards aren't usually my style (I don't do a lot of online shopping), but I am in need of some inspiration. I have been totally blaah-ed out by the weather that we have been having and I feel like I have been wearing the same outfit for days: sweater, scarf, jeans, hunters, repeat.
As I clean out my closet and purge my clothes I realize that I could stand a few new basics. A favourite shopping haunt of mine is Aritzia, a boutique that carries Canadian designs and labels. I have to confess to going there and scoping out what the staff are wearing, it is definitely one of those places that hires you for your sense of style. I am seriously considering going out and investing in the asymmetrical blazer and pairing it with some mad brooches like this, and the yellow sweater would be perfect to add a pop of colour to a plain outfit. What are your favourites?
PS have you entered my giveaway?

Closet Cleaning Giveaway CLOSED

2012-01-30T12:42:00.002-05:00

If you've been following along with my closet cleaning adventures you know that I have set aside a few items to giveaway on the blog-lucky you! Today I am excited to be giving away a New York knock-off Louis Vuitton handbag! It was given to me as a gift from a friend after her visit to New York and while I appreciate it, I have truly only used it twice. It is in very good condition and it really needs a new home!

If I didn't already have a home for Penelope this would be the perfect fit, so this is perfect for all you photographers out there.

1 entry

1. Be a follower of Take Me For a Twirl via GFC, Bloglovin or RSS (let me know which in the comment)

2. Let me know how you would style and/or use this handbag

extra entry

Tweet about the giveaway using my twitter handle @sydmdavis

The winner will be announced Monday February 6th. Best of luck!

Weekend At Home

2012-01-30T08:14:00.000-05:00

I spent the weekend at home for some much needed R&R and time with family. We had so much fun exploring new aspects of our city and of course saved time for lounging around in pyjamas.

I took some time for reflection and gratitude and I am starting to focus on my goals and keeping them in the forefront of my mind. I didn't have Penelope with me this weekend for all my adventures but I was still snapping away on Instagram (follow me at: takemeforatwirl)...

Saturday

{a trip to the Brick Works farmers market-all vendors are local, organic and sustainable}

{a Glitter Guide inspired manicure}

{a fun night out on the town with a dear friend}

Sunday

{My mom and I took my gran shopping for a few Christmas exchanges and an updated look}

{an early Sunday morning was spent blogging and doing some much needed reflection}

What were you up to this weekend?

Sunday Musings

2012-01-29T10:58:00.000-05:00

After working on yesterdays post about expecting wonderful things, I really got to thinking about how I want to live my life. And I was reminded of yet another oft heard quote.

A goal not written is only a wish.

Even more so than yesterday's quote, I think this one can be easy to overlook. Sure, I've got goals, everyone does, even if it is as simple as: go for a walk this afternoon. But when I took a moment to ask myself have I been consistently thinking about those goals intentionally? Actively writing about them? Writing them down more than once? The resounding answer for me is no. I have my list of new years resolutions above my desk so I can view it everyday, but I realized this morning that isn't good enough. That is simply wishing. I used to listen to a podcast by Scott Smith called The Daily Boost (which now that I'm writing about it I should probably start listening to again but I digress) and every Monday, Scott Smith would ask his listeners "did you do your homework?", he meant did you take time on Sunday to sit down and reflect on where you are at with your life, what are the things you are grateful for and did you take time to focus on your goals and write them down. He was adamant that this was important and necessary. He is not the only person I have encountered who believes this, almost every personal development book and blog talks about writing down your goals. As I have become more acquainted with the blogging world I have seen countless posts about "building a better blog" and all of them encourage writing down your goals. The point here is simple: if I want to accomplish my goals I need to write. them. down.

I don't usually post on the weekends, but I am realizing that I should be using that empty space for this, for writing down my goals. Not only writing down my goals, but also taking time to focus on what I already have and am grateful for. I have a feeling this is going to be a good thing. So, without further ado...

my family

my friends

being fortunate enough to be able to attend university

my blog and the blogging community

learning opportunities

sunshine

dinner with good company

new friends

garlic (seriously, imagine food without garlic)

sad moments so I can appreciate the good moments

my camera aka Penelope

a hot cup of coffee on quiet early mornings

laughter

my photographer

being healthy and able-bodied

my mom

get into Ryerson for midwifery

to build a better, cleaner blog

to say YES more often

to learn how to use my camera and take amazing photographs

to go to yoga at least twice a week

to feed my body healthy, real food

to laugh every day

to work hard at blogging and increase my blogging skill set

to reach out to my family more

to open myself up to giving without receiving

to love recklessly

to accomplish more meaningful things in my day

to be kind no matter what

to give

Wow. That was surprisingly powerful, if you read to the end you are my favourite (no, seriously). I realized two important things: I have a lot to be grateful for and I need to seriously think about my goals and get specific with them, right now they are all floating around in my head and I can't seem to focus in on them. Hmmmm. Good to know. What an excellent thing to accomplish on a Sunday! What are your Sundays looking like? Happy goal writing friends!

Expecting Wonderful Things

2012-01-28T14:37:00.000-05:00

{I am jumping right in with an intentional living post this weekend. I am considering making it a regular post series so please do let me know what you think}

I have heard this quote a million times. I have seen it plastered all over pinterest and I have seen it in all the leadership work I have done over the years. And it wasn't until yesterday that it really and truly resonated with me.

This past week has found me unsettled and unhappy. I was having a hard time figuring it out (was I eating weird? Not sleeping enough?) and I finally realized: I was being hard on myself. Like, really hard. While there have been some truly great moments recently, like finding inner courage to get my midwifery application together, I have been letting other people dictate how I choose to act and feel. I have been letting other people's expectations of me dictate how I am choosing to feel. You'll notice I'm saying "how I choose to feel" instead of "they are making me feel" because I know that I am the only one responsible for my own thoughts and feelings. That still hasn't stopped me from consciously choosing to act from a place of fear. Fear that I am not living up to other people's expectations of me. Expectations that, to be quite frank, do not fit in with my own expectations of myself. I have been living by other people's rules and regulations. Truth be told, I hate getting into trouble and being told that I am not doing things the right way. It makes my skin crawl and I often do whatever it is I can to fix it, even if it's not in alignment with my beliefs. I don't know where this comes from, I am still on that path of self discovery. What I do know is that I feel cowardly and I often act in ways that aren't aligned with my own values. To quote Green Eggs and Ham: I do not like it one bit.

How does this all play into the quote at the beginning of the post? I realized that I have been living life expecting to be told I am doing things wrong. Expecting to be in trouble. Expecting to have to put up my defences. Expecting that other's are viewing me as doing things the wrong way.

That is no way to be living intentionally and certainly isn't bringing me any peace of mind. I love this quote because it brought me back to a place where I can see the need for self love. For gentleness with myself, for trust in myself. Trust that I deserve to live life by my own values and my own behaviours and that it's okay for that to clash with other people without damaging relationships. I realize that in order to love myself I need to live life expecting wonderful things to happen. I need to expect love in my life. To expect joy and peace and fun in my life. I need to expect wonderful things to happen, not the other way around. Only when I love myself will I be happy.

It's not going to be easy, but it's going to be worth it.

Happy Saturday friends! xo

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-01-27T09:08:00.000-05:00

Everyone in a relationship should read this post, it is some truly amazing advice about being intentional with your partner

Veronica has curated a mini alt week series that made me feel like I had attended the darn thing!

Jill GG talks about dressing like a nerd-ess

Finally got around to reading Kristina's secrets to success pt II

If I could trade places with one person for a day, it would be joy the baker. I looooove her. I also love her real-talk blog tips, they are just peachy

Pugly Pixel is a daily visit for me and I fell in love when I saw these

Bex is consciously choosing joy and I am following suit

I am headed home this weekend for a little R&R and time with the family. Happy weekending friends!

Awkward and Awesome

2012-01-26T12:51:00.000-05:00

~Hunters+hunter socks+socks=most powerful suction on earth

~Yoga, it's been awhile. No, no really I'm taking it easy today, I just don't want to show you all up with my killer moves *falls over trying to balance on one leg and one hand*

~Taking pictures in public on my macbook (see: above)

~Taking off red lipstick and having myself look like a five year old with a juice moustache, the epitome of class

~Goofing around doing fake Australian accents at work and accidentally talking to customers with the accent...and awkwardly explaining myself

~Burning my lips with coffee and making a very subtle aka not so subtle noise-possibly-shriek

~Listening to the Joy the Baker podcast with headphones and laughing right out loud. In public. Awesome.

~Inadvertently watching The Bachelor with my roommates and becoming completely sucked into the drama

~My bloggy friends. Seriously, you guys are all awesome. I am loving the sense of community that is starting to happen.

~Red lipstick, chambray and grey cardigans. New favourite.

~Having life chats with Simon over a few beers. One of my favourite things to do.

~Getting my Midwifery application done! (thank you all for your sweet words of encouragement)

~Feeling like a total hipster after having discovered a new favourite coffee place first. Huzzah. High-five Simon!

~Having a few quiet nights for journal writing and reflection.

~Being alive and well! Isn't that awesome?!

Happy Thursday friends!

Project Closet Overhaul: The Closet

2012-01-26T10:57:00.000-05:00

The closet purge continues! This time I tackled the closet itself. It was, to say the least, a disaster zone. Evidently, the poor thing was suffering from a serious case of closet neglect.

Shoes everywhere, random bags on the ground, not one but two tool kits sitting there taking up space and lots and lots of clothes that haven't been worn in months.

Clearly, it was unruly...

Don't worry I wrangled it into submission

Going through these photos it doesn't look like there is a significant difference between the before and after shots (minus the mess of shoes), but I suppose that's what you get when you are working with an ittybitty closet. Seriously though, I have about three shirts to one hanger so that I can fit everything in there. If you look closely on the far left there are, wait for it, empty hangers! I did get rid of a fair amount. It took a while to go through everything (in fact, it took the whole length of Aladdin) and sort it all into piles: keep, giveaway and...sell?

I have a few items in my closet that are good quality, good brand names but aren't being worn. I had a suggestion from one of my readers to sell a few items that I was purging from my closet. I am curious to see what you think. Does that idea appeal to you? A little "Shop Sydney's Closet"?

Leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts (comments are blog hugs!)

Even if I don't end up selling anything I do have a few items set aside for everyone's favourite thing: giveaways! *excited-resembles-flash-dance-happy-dance*

To quote Jess, it feels amazing to have "exfoliated" my closet. Pairing down to the items that I actually wear is a great feeling. It was sad to let some things go because they were a) expensive b) pretty or c) gifts, but clearing space is important. Boy have I created some space! Total items purged to date

Can I make it to 100?!

The Newest Family Member

2012-01-25T10:54:00.004-05:00

Blog world, I would like you to meet the newest member of my family

Isn't she beautiful?

I have realized that this camera is probably the closest thing I have to a human child. I mean, I stay up late reading how-to books, I worry about her when she's in someone else's hands and I can't stop buying things for her.

Or thinking about her future and all the wonderful things we can do together.

We go for walks in the park, play outside, eat snacks together.

I always make sure she is tucked in safely each night.

And let's not forget the fact that I named her Penelope.

And refer to the darn thing as "her".

I feel like I'm either walking down a treacherous path that leads to forever nerd-dom or I'm the best camera parent in the whole world. Still can't decide.

On a related note, what are some good DSLR blogs that I should start reading?

What He Wore: Best Friend Edition

2012-01-24T07:03:00.002-05:00

What he wore

sweater: Old Navy

jeans: Marks work wear house

shoes: blundstones

Simon is one of those people who always looks so put together. Even if you go to visit him on a Sunday afternoon he will be wearing a tee shirt with a fabulous scarf. He can usually be found sporting a dress shirt, sweater and tie which elicits a lot "ohhh where are you going?" questions, as sweat pants and hoodies are the "traditional garb" here on dear old campus. Not only is Simon a snappy dresser but he is a great shopping partner. He is an excellent person to take into the dressing room with you, he is honest, patient, frank and complimentary.
He also has fabulous taste in wines and good cheeses. No, you can't have him, he's my best friend, but i'm happy to share!
Happy Tuesday friends!

The time I'm actually applying to be a midwife

2012-01-23T09:14:00.000-05:00

It is actually happening. I am actually, in all seriousness, 100%, no turning back now, applying to be a midwife.

I have spent a large portion of this past weekending working on my application and personal letter. Of course the fun part is filling out all the forms and the online applications. The tough part comes with explaining to yourself and to those reading your application why. Why I want to be a midwife, why I think they should pick me out of the hundreds of applications to be part of their program. Why they should invest their time and resources in me. Daunting, no?

No.

Truth be told, I know that I am born to do this. After my bout of soul searching last year and finally deciding I was going to be a midwife over the summer, I trust that this is what I am meant to be doing.

Every step of the process has felt right. Everything and everyone I have encountered since making my decision has re-affirmed it to be the right path. I have taken the time to be still and to listen to myself, to hear my inner voice speak the truth.

I had to take a pause after working on the application for a while because my inner ego popped up and got a choke hold on me. It was whispering "you'll never get in, you're not good enough", "you're not what they want", "you're not going to make it through this process", "you may as well give up now, you're going to fail anyway". It was like a bad horror movie. And you know what? There was about 77 seconds where I thought "I shouldn't do this, I'll wait till next year".

Then I didn't believe that anymore. I pushed my ego out. I stopped and took a moment. Sure enough, there was my inner voice and compass, just saying "you know you can do this. You are going to get in, it's inevitable. Believe in yourself".

And I do.

There is no doubt in my mind that I am going to be accepted to Ryerson for fall 2012. It has been my intention and I have been living from a place of trust and absolute confidence that this is happening. There is no room for doubt in my mind. There is no space for second guessing or putting myself down. This is it. Applications are due a February 1st. It's happening.

As I write this I realize this is a substantial deviation from fashion and it might be a stretch to call this "lifestyle", but I am curious to see your thoughts. I am seriously considering introducing a new component about intentional living and I want to know what you lovely people think about that. Comments are blog hugs.

On that happy note, I am off to do some editing and kick a bit of application butt.

Happy Monday friends!

iphone love

2012-01-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

I love my iphone. I love my iphone like I love a hot cup of coffee or wikipedia (oh wait...). I have had my iphone for about a year now and while I have enjoyed a select few apps I have a sneaking suspicion that I have not experienced all that the wonderful world of apps has to offer! So, I am taking a cue from a cup of Jo and asking you dear readers, what are your favourite apps? What apps can you not imagine not having (oh yes, double negative)? What apps are life changing?

I have no doubt you clever things have it all figured out!

While were at it, any good ipad recommendations?

Happy weekending!

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-01-20T12:40:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday fabulous friends! It's time for another round of share the love Fridays!

~Lets Talk Trunk is a wonderful blog run by four fabulous women, I like the idea of having a blog authored by multiple people, plus these gals are absolutely adorable

~I am in love with these date ideas and most of them are free!

~Grit & Glamour shares five things she's learned about blogging, excellent reminders
~Have you heard of Kanata? A Canadian fashion blogger network that hit the ground running this year, I have loved getting to know some fellow Canadian bloggers and learning a few lessons in Northern style
~I am excited to try Lex and Learn's vegetarian bean casserole, hello deliciousness!
~Angela started her own Gratitude Challenge to start practicing gratitude on a regular basis, now I've just got to get myself a gratitude buddy (any takers?)

Happy weekending, I hope its spectacular!

Awkward and Awesome

2012-01-19T09:58:00.000-05:00

~Taking blog photos on campus can result in facial expressions like this one, when attempting to act calm cool and collected in the face of curious on-lookers. I'd say it was successful.

~Spending excessive (and I mean excessive) time on Pinterest hoping that I will miraculously absorb extreme craftiness/embodiment of inspiring quotes/become a professional photographer *sigh*

~Awkwardly asking my co-worker if it was "computer time" while simultaneously doing a small wiggle-slash-dance

~Tweeting people I am moderately starstruck by and misspelling things-curse you autocorrect, curse you!

~Planning out potential Halloween costumes for October and literally becoming so excited I squealed. Like a squeaky chair, or a small animal.

~Thinking it is acceptable to plan out Halloween costumes in January

~The general state of my walking abilities in the constant ice/rain/snow/rain weather that we are having

~Cleaning out my closet (and making significant progress)

~That completely non-awkward moment when Gryffindor got 1000000 points

~Having people tell me they read my blog, that is just awesome

~Spending time with Simon and literally weeping from laughter over nothing except a few good sh*t girls say quotes and a glass or two of wine

~Coffee dates at my new favourite coffee place

~Starting yoga this week with a friend! Yay flexibendi self!

~you guys, for cereal, you guys are all awesome! Thank you for all the love and the comments!

Project Closet Overhaul: The Dresser

2012-01-19T07:57:00.000-05:00

I recently realized I had too many clothes and that my closet was in serious need of a good purge. The plan is to work through one area of my room at a time and get rid of as many items as possible (donate, recycle or throw out). I decided that the most pressing area was my dresser which was in a complete state of disarray. I am pleased to say that day one was a success! My dresser was too full which caused a complete lack of organization and folding. It was also causing items to be hidden and unworn *gasp* the worst! My overall goal for my dresser was to create more space and to keep things organized.

I had my trusty fashion associate Simon there to help me be decisive and to give an outsiders opinion (which one always needs when getting rid of clothes).

naturally there were shananagins

Initially I wanted to attempt the process drawer by drawer but I then realized it was easier to empty out the entire unit and work my way through a giant mountain of clothes. No seriously, it was.

It was incredibly satisfying putting away neatly folded (and newly appreciated) items back into my dresser!

As for the items that I got rid of?

I purged 34 items out of my wardrobe! high fives all around people!

I will be making one trip to value village at the end of my purge but until then this system seems to be working pretty great

Classy Snuggie

2012-01-18T10:43:00.000-05:00

As I start on my closet cleaning mission, I want to take some time to acknowledge the clothes that I love and appreciate and will definitely not be headed to a thrift store anytime soon. Et voila! The fruits of my shopping adventure. Simon calls this my classy snuggie, I kind of resent that, but I can't deny it. The sweater is kind of snuggie-like, this is definitely not going to stop me from nodding off during class, or in public. Hey, it happens alright? Let's hope I don't go down in history as a well dressed narcoleptic...these are the kinds of thoughts that run through my head when I write about snuggies. Sigh.

What I'm Wearing

sweater (classy snuggie): American Eagle

long sleeve tee: TNA via Aritzia

jeans: Joe

boots: Spring

bag: Lands End vintage collection

B necklace: Top Shop

belt: thrifted

glasses: urban outfitters

lots of love for Simon who took the photos! Love you xo

Project: Closet Overhaul

2012-01-17T10:23:00.000-05:00

I have too many clothes.

This simple revelation came to me last week as I was trying to close one of my dresser drawers after literally stuffing a pair of pants into the back as if I was putting away a sleeping bag. This has resulted in a small state of chaos in my room and closet. I then realized that I have too much make-up, too many accessories, too many earrings, too many too many too many.

I have always believed that the amount of physical "stuff" we carry around with us in our lives can act as a mental weight. Anyone who has cleaned our their closet knows that afterwards you literally feel lighter, happier, freer.

I have been inspired by both Jess and Sarah who are getting rid of clutter in their own lives. Sarah is slowly working her way through her wardrobe with her Closet Challenge and Jess just got rid of 100 things! Can you imagine how much better she feels after getting rid of 100 things?!

So, I've taken it upon myself to completely overhaul my closet by getting rid of things that don't fit, need mending but haven't been taken to the tailor and/or hand sewn, or that I haven't worn or used in over 6 months. I will be working away at this project over the next week as there are several "areas" that need some purging. Today I will let you see the state of affairs chez Syd and hopefully you see what I mean when I say my closet needs to be overhauled...

Clearly there is work to be done. Truth be told I am excited to be clearing some space, both physically and mentally. Bonus for you guys, I'm taking a cue from Sarah and seriously considering hosting a few giveaways of precious items that deserve attention they just aren't getting from me!

Is anyone in desperate need of a closet cleaning?

Wise Words

2012-01-16T18:24:00.000-05:00

It was a cooking kind of weekend

2012-01-16T13:12:00.000-05:00

This weekend I went home to Toronto with my new photographer (wink wink) for a few days of R&R, good food and good company. It quickly became the weekend of food. Wonderful, wonderful food.

There was french toast.

And homemade mussels with basil and sun dried tomato bread crumbs.

And homemade mac and cheese.

And spicy feta dip.

And cinnamon buns with coffee.

We went down to the St. Lawrence Market for our supplies for the weekend. We picked up delicious herbs, fresh seafood and a bottle (or two) of wine. Cooking with other people is one of my favourite things to do and I was so happy to spend an entire weekend preparing and eating food with someone who is, in my highest opinion, an amazing person. In between all the eating we squeezed in some movie watching. We rented Pirate Radio and The Trotsky and let me tell you, laughing with a belly full of food and good company is just about the greatest thing in the world.

My weekend turned out to be one of those perfect weekends that don't happen all the time. I went back to school feeling rejuvenated and refreshed (and unsurprisingly full!)

Happy Monday friends!

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-01-13T08:26:00.000-05:00

Last week I introduced a new weekly post called Share the Love Fridays where I share posts and articles which strike a chord with me and I think are worth sharing. There was a fairly positive response from all you lovely readers so we're back again for another week!

Jess Constable is getting rid of 100 items she doesn't need anymore, which reminds me my own closet needs a serious overhaul...

I am swooning over Kira's outfit, definitely re-creating my own version soon

IFB has some great blogger new years resolutions, a few of which I am working on myself to spruce up take me for a twirl

Can hardly wait for the new Wes Anderson movie to come out

Seriously considering making this tutorial from Natalie or something similar to it soon

Love this video by Robin Sharama, could it be possible to get up every day at 5?!

Happy Friday friends! Enjoy your weekends!

Awkward and Awesome

2012-01-12T10:21:00.000-05:00

I'm back with another round of awkward and awesome, seriously what a brilliant idea for a post, Sydney knows what's what.

~Just call me Ms. Sniffles. I have a kleenex permanently attached to my hand and I am now capable of making nose clearing noises in different octaves, you're welcome

~Using words like "hip hop happening real" in a blog post. Again, you're welcome

~Liquid eye liner first thing in the morning, am I alone on this one?

~Having not a clue how to use my fancy new camera and having everyone assume I know what's up in the world of photography...I don't.

~Not wearing make up to work one early morning and having a customer ask me "if I was okay because you look, like, really tired". Thanks a bunch.

~The fact that there is evidently a gnome living in my pocket who is fond of hiding and/or using my chapstick because I never seem to be able to keep a tube on my person for more than two hours at a time, curse you chapstick gnome...

~Having someone else take your photos: hallelujah! (pretty darn good photos too!)

~Enjoying the time before school works picks up and midterms begin, aaah blissful freedom

~Having my Christmas wishlist fulfilled and feeling a bit like a j. crew model

~Naps. Need I say more?

~Reading a new book by Dr. Robert Holden

~Skype conversations with friends who live in Vancouver

~Coffee dates with best friends and new friends

~Finally getting my new years resolutions organized into a coherent list. 2012, get ready for me

Is Santa Real?!

2012-01-11T13:34:00.000-05:00

Guys, I don't know if you have heard, but Santa is real. Seriously. Look at what I'm wearing right now, anything look familiar? Maybe that's because not one, not two but three things were on my Christmas wishlist! That's right folks, santa is hip hop happening real.

and of course by Santa I mean my amazing family (thanks Uncle Rob and Auntie Cath! and Gran for the epic J. Crew online shopping, you're a gem!)

I am now officially a wishlist convert. I feel so lucky to have received exactly what I put on my wishlist. A J. Crew chambray shirt, a the Tiffany's bracelet that I've been pining over for years and the third item? Well, these photos were taken with my brand new Canon EOS rebel! I am so, so, so excited to have and use my new toy (it is one of my new years resolutions after all).

You also probably noticed that I didn't take these pictures myself. I have a new photographer in my life, but I'm not saying too much about them just yet, but evidently they are pretty talented and have a good eye for blog photos (and bloggers).

I'm pretty excited to be doing outfit posts again, it helps that there is barely any snow on the ground and it feels like April. I know Kate is experiencing the downside of winter blogging and I admire her gumption and class while having her photos taken in the snow, that is not easy people, not easy at all.

This is my sassy face. Clearly I was displeased about something.

What I'm wearing

top: J. Crew

pants: Gap

Boots: Spring

Bracelet: Tiffany's

glasses: Urban outfitters

Getting Started

2012-01-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

So, it's been a full 10 days since 2012 started and I am finally ready to share my list of resolutions for the new year. After starting off with a new motto and sitting with my intentions for just over a week I have crafted a list of resolutions that reflect the direction I want to take this year. I was having a hard time coming up with my resolutions, I am at a point in my life where everything has changed and the path that lies before me is not yet clear. I was feeling a little down trodden and frustrated about this, but then I read Jess Constable's post on make under my life. I felt inspired and confident to set my intentions for this wonderful year (is it just me or does this year already feel lighter and more joyful than 2011?)

{follow me in instagram here}

so, without further ado, my 2012 intentions...

Give. Give everything. Give time. Give love. Give hugs. Give tears. Give smiles. Just give.
Don't gossip. I will be following the old maxim of "if you wouldn't say it to their face, don't say it" if I'm being honest, half of the things that come out of my mouth are none of my business. I really want to create space to focus on my business.
Do stuff. Just do stuff. Crafts, cooking, walking, eating, listening, running, crying, traveling, just do the stuff I want to do.
Stay connected spiritually. Read books, go to talks, listen to podcasts, talk to my mamma. Just stay connected.
Say yes more often. "No" is often my gut reaction, but Robin Sharma says it takes 40 days to install a new habit, so 40 days of "yes" here I come!
Read more personal development books. First up on my list is 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (I have read 7 Habits for Highly Effective Teens about five times, but now that I'm 22 I think I'm technically considered an adult, so...)
Eat simple, real food. Prepare with love and enjoy the process. I love cooking so this one is going to be easy, but I have it on here to be mindful of the food I put in my body and to be in a state of gratitude when eating.
Learn to use my new toy: a Canon EOS Rebel!
Send thank you notes and birthday cards
Laugh every day
Don't take myself so seriously, because let's be honest, that's boring
Make fun everyday and make everyday fun (ah! See what I did there? but seriously, 2012 is about having fun, lots of it)
Call my family at least once a week
Eliminate negative, petty judgements from my thoughts and words. It ain't gonna be easy but it's gonna be worth it
Trust that I am capable of many wonderful things. Stop selling myself short before I try things.
Focus on building Take Me For a Twirl into a successful blog which people enjoy reading and are inspired by. Switch over to WordPress, include better photos (see earlier resolution: learn to use Canon), build community, collaborate with other bloggers, be an active member of the blog community

This is a fairly scatter brained list compared to some I have seen, but my aim is to refine my list into categories as the year goes on and my goals and my life change in new and wonderful ways. I am excited to see what this year brings and how being intentional about living my best life will transform me. All the best with your 2012 resolutions! xo

Coffee Dates and Foot High Fives

2012-01-09T21:33:00.000-05:00

One of my favourite things to do is go out for coffee and have a heart-to-heart with Simon. We found a new coffee joint that opened a few weeks ago just two blocks from my house! Score! We talked a little bit about our holidays with our families, but mostly we talked about how our time as undergrads is ending and the paths that both of us are starting out on in a few months. We talked about new years resolutions, and I am excited to share mine with you tomorrow. It is really great to be able to talk with each other about our lives and our fears and what were worried about, because let's get real, there are lots of things that I am scared of and unsure about. I have been thinking a lot about how I don't want to necessarily be less afraid but I want to acknowledge my fear and use it as an indicator that I am stepping outside my comfort zone. Best friends are really good for talking about things like this with. I am so grateful to have Simon in my life. In fact I am so grateful for all of my friends, each and every one of them are truly great people who make the world a better place. You know what is perfect for sharing with friends? Coffee at a new favourite coffee place. And foot high fives, let's not forget about foot high fives.

Happy Monday friends!

Shopping the Sales

2012-01-08T13:59:00.000-05:00

As far as bargain hunting after Christmas, I love the week after New Years. Despite the hype over boxing day sales I am a new years week sale shopper. I used to be a boxing day die-hard; arrive early, get a good parking spot, have a map of stores to visit, you know casual shopping strategies. But in recent years I have found better deals in the week or weeks afterwards. I have to confess to not really having a plan of attack or even a list of things I would like to buy. The two things I set out to buy were a new pair of boots and a new belt (real life confession: I only have one belt which used to belong to my fashionable mother and it is now too big, no judgement, blog friends don't judge). All things considered I think I made out pretty well and scored some great deals!

While there was no luck with a belt, I did end up getting a new pair of boots, they are on order from Spring as we speak! I got some good deals on other footwear, like my glitter loafers which were more than half off and my golden ballet flats (I was inspired by Carrie's recent sparkly purchase). In addition I got two tank tops, both marked down to more than 60% off (hello burgundy and navy and white stripes!). In a bold move I bought a sheer top with a bird print and buttons up the back, which is not my usual style but I am attempting to branch out this year and incorporate some new looks into my wardrobe. I also got an incredible deal on this chunky sweater/poncho, which is way out of my fashion comfort zone, but Sydney has been rocking this one so well lately that I felt courageous enough to give it a try. It was also marked down from 90$ to 35$, it felt like it was meant to be.

I have another confession: I am a compulsive underwear shopper. Seriously, ask Simon, it's a problem. I find it hard to resist the 5 for 25 deals at aerie and Pink (yes, I buy underwear at Pink, again, no judgement). Alas, despite my "I will not buy underwear" mantra I ended up coming out with a veritable rainbow of new threads. In my own defence, they were the expensive kind...on super sale...how could a girl resist?

Overall I think I did rather well considering I was plan-less: I bought a few pieces that I knew I would wear consistently (tank tops, underwear, glitter shoes), two pieces that are outside of my fashion comfort zone but I am excited about (chunky sweater, bird print blouse) and the item I actually needed: new boots.

I am already envisioning outfits in my head...

What is your shopping plan of attack? Any tips or tricks? Happy shopping friends!

Share The Love Fridays!

2012-01-06T10:29:00.000-05:00

I've been chewing on the idea of having a weekly spot where I share posts that I am loving from my favourite bloggers, and I'm taking the first Friday of 2012 as my opportunity to jump in! (I'm not set on the title for the posts yet, so I am open to suggestions!). One of my new years resolutions this year is: give. Give my time, give my love, give myself, give my efforts, just give. Sharing posts and articles from the blog world that I love is in alignment with my resolution: giving credit, giving gratitude and giving positive blogosphere energy! Share the love my friends.

This week I have been loving...

Jess Constable talks about making the right kind of new years resolutions
Ashley inspires me to keep change at the forefront of my mind and to believe in myself
Hello! Instagram photostrips anyone?
Maybe one of my favourite features: Make Under My Life interviews the effervescent Kendi, well worth a read as 2012 kicks off
Sarah's 2012 Closet Challenge has me thinking about the state of my own closet...
The hilarious Karen tells you how to make your table setting sophisticated with a trip to the dollar store

What are some of your favourite posts or places to go for inspiration? Happy Friday!

Out of Curiosity...

2012-01-04T09:28:00.000-05:00

Source: etc-alltherest.blogspot.com via Kaitlin on Pinterest

I've got an important question for all you lovely blog readers:

I am curious to know what is your preferred method of following blogs?

Google reader? Bloglovin? RSS feed? Facebook? Twitter?
Let me know and I will hook you guys up!
Happy hump day! xo

Winter Fun

2012-01-03T16:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you need to spend early mornings going to the craft store to get pertinent supplies. Sometimes you take your best friend with you. Sometimes when you need to go to the craft store, you need to go the long way through the park. Sometimes the park has snow in it. Sometimes you end up running and slipping and laughing in the snow. Sometimes it's the best Saturday you've had in a while.

for next year anyway...

getting where I want to be

2012-01-02T12:31:00.000-05:00

This year, I am committed to staying true to my goals and my intentions. I think this quote sums up my attitude towards getting where I want to be and complements my motto for 2012 nicely.

Realizing what you want out of life is tough, and in all honesty getting what you want is even tougher. As the famous saying goes: anything worth having is worth fighting for, and you best be prepared to fight. I have learned that you are the only person who can choose what you want and you are the only one who can find your way. Seeking approval from others is good, it is often helpful but it should never interfere with your true intentions and ultimate goals. I feel so blessed to have a mother who is a strong, powerful role model and who has reinforced the idea that I am capable of whatever it is that I set my mind to. I often find myself in internal conflict about whether or not I should pursue a course of action (a career path, continuing or ending a friendship, beginning a new relationship) because my ego starts quipping in with little comments that nag away "oh, people will talk" "you know that's not a good idea because so and so is such a way" "your family won't approve and won't support you". Last year I learned a lot of tough lessons, including that sometimes you have to go it alone. That sometimes you will be the only one walking the dark path of your life, holding a small light, only able to see two hundred feet in front of you, but that you have to keep going. That you won't always have your friends by your side, or your family. That people will leave and they will disagree with you and often get in your way. But that you have to, above all else, keep moving forward.

I believe it all comes down to loving yourself compared to wanting to be liked by others. As I have said before, there is power in letting go. This year, I am resolving to let go of what I perceive others to think of me and to let go of how tightly I cling to their opinions of me. My path is my own and no one else's. Thank goodness I have good taste in clothes and nail polish because even if I am alone, I will be looking and feeling stylish.

What are some of your tough resolutions this year?

New Year, New Motto

2012-01-01T19:32:00.000-05:00

A very, very happy new year to you friends! I hope everyone welcomed 2012 in a way that made their hearts smile, I know I certainly did.

Last year (tee hee) I wrote about how in 2011 my life did a complete 180. In twelve months my life was turned completely upside down and I truly believe that I made the best of it and came out a better person. It is true that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. I have more clarity, more insight and more self confidence than ever before. It is also true that the only thing constant in life is change.

I wrote about the strength I found in the process of letting go. Letting go facilitates change and creates space for growth. But so does action.

Acting on intuition, making mistakes, working through challenges are necessary for growth. That is why I am approaching this year with the motto

2012...Bring It On.

I have painted my nails hot pink, made some serious to-do lists and resolutions and I've got a pair of knee high boots to...well, boot. It's going to be an amazing twelve months.

2012? Bring. It. On.

Does anyone else have a motto for 2012?

Ringing in 2012

2011-12-31T12:54:00.000-05:00

Happy New Years Eve friends!

My sincerest apologies for being so quiet on the blog front this past week but my life has been CAH-RAZAYY! We moved, I ended my relationship with my boyfriend and I have been getting up to all sorts of shenanigans. I have, as I am sure the rest of you have been as well, looking back on 2011 and thinking about all the good, the bad and the ugly. 2011, was to put it mildly, intense. If someone had come up to me last new years eve and told me that everything, and I mean everything in my life would be different a year from now I would not have believed them. In no way is this meant to be a sob story or a pity party but I think it's important that I communicate the changes that have happened to show the depth of shift that has happened in my life:

~My parents separated and my mom has a beautiful new partner

~We sold our old house, lived with friends for several months and are now living in a new home

~My boyfriend changed his life course and moved to Winnipeg, which ultimately resulted in us ending the relationship

~I changed my career plans from wanting to be a speech language pathologist to being a Midwife

It is almost as if the the slate of my life has been wiped clean and I have been given the opportunity to start fresh, to learn new things and move in a new direction. In all honesty, this scared the shit out of me for the longest time. It was really hard to let things go of that I had held dear for so long. After a lot of personal growth and exploration I realized that letting go packs a lot of punch. Letting go is what gives me strength. Letting go makes room for bigger and better. Letting go is important and necessary.

That is my lesson for 2011.

Having said that, bring it on 2012, I'm ready for ya!

Popped Collars

2011-12-23T11:57:00.000-05:00

What I'm Wearing

Top: Lacoste, thrifted via Courage My Love

Cardigan: Gap

Jeans: Joe

Glasses: Urban Outfitters

It feels like forever since I did an outfit post! So here you go, devoted readers who read this blog in hopes of seeing some Canadian fashion, an outfit post. I confess to having avoided outfit posts in recent weeks as a result of being unsure how to do "winter blogging". Although, as you can see in this photo there is absolutely no snow and no need for the parka that I have been wearing out of habit. So, no need for worrying after all. I am not sure what the weather elsewhere in this country has been but here in Toronto it feels like April, to be honest its rather unsettling. Although as I type this, my mom just told me from the other room that her iphone predicts flurries for tonight. Hmmm.

So until it actually snows I am stuck wearing red shirts and lipstick, and making snow angles in piles of dead leaves. Okay, that sounds morbid. How about...enjoying coffee with Baileys? There we go, a holiday tradition to be enjoyed with or without snow!

Awkward and Awesome

2011-12-22T12:27:00.000-05:00

Being so exhausted after exams that your family thinks something is actually wrong with you

Accidentally kicking off a large chuck of metal radiator cover during a nice moment

Laughing out loud and only seconds too late realizing you have food in your mouth

Getting caught singing Marry The Night at the top of your lungs in your car by the guy in the car behind you in traffic

Trying to curl your hair and fighting with the one-piece-that-will-not-curl-properly-no-matter-how-many-times-you-try

A series of conversations with a particular person, who shall remain nameless, which involved a lot of covering up of the face and face palming...ahem

Wearing the same sweater ~~three four~~ five days in a row, it's comfy alright?

Rain+freshly straightened hair, need I say more?

Coming home to freshly bakedGingerbread cake, made with love by mom

Having Simon call me to tell me that there is a Shit Girls Say pt 2 (which, btw, I found out is filmed in Toronto)

Going to the bar with Simon on our Toronto fun day and having a hilariously amazing time

A Christmas tree stacked with presents, seriously feeling blessed right now

Getting the rare opportunity to spend Christmas eve with all of the people that I love sleeping under one roof

Secret awesome things. Sssh, I can't say ;) somethings are just not meant for the blog world

Super soft blankets while watching movies on the couch

Having Joe Fresh respond to a tweet and include me in their #FF (cue nerdy blogger moment)

Sleeping in and waking up to a fresh pot of coffee

My life in general right now: AWESOME

Happy Thursday beauties!

{what i'm wearing: Sweater and Scarf: Joe Fresh, glasses: Urban Outfitters}

Dear Sydney: Clarification Needed, lots of love xo Life

2011-12-20T12:09:00.000-05:00

I am at a point where life has presented me with several options and I have seriously had to sit down and evaluate what I want and what is going to make me the happiest.

I was talking this over with Simon and the phrase "well, perfectly good is not quite the same as perfect" and that helped clarify a lot of things. I am still working through my challenges and I am happy to be using this as a framework. Of course not everything can be perfect all the time, but I am moving away from settling for perfectly good and moving towards perfect.

Happy Holidays friends!

Red Sweater Weekend

2011-12-19T13:16:00.000-05:00

I've got a new red sweater and I don't care who knows it.

Seriously I've worn it every day since I bought it. Once again, Joe Fresh for the win.

Isn't she beautiful? Love the collar and the reindeer. My mom and I had a bit of a debate whilst shopping about whether or not this was too much of a "Christmas sweater" vs a "holiday sweater". We ended up agreeing it was a holiday sweater that could be worn pre and post Christmas. What do you think, Christmas or Holiday?

I also got to spend a few days in Toronto with my bestie! We went for coffee, out to the bar, enjoyed post-bar brunch and made a road trip CD for the trip back to school. Don't you love weekends like that?

....and more red sweater wearing...say nothing....

Happy Monday!

{what im wearing: sweater and scarf Joe Fresh, glasses urban outfitters, jeans gap}

A Good Friday Reminder

2011-12-16T12:48:00.000-05:00

Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there

~Will Rogers

What I'm Wearing

top: TNA via Aritzia

jeans: Gap

purse: Coach

shoes: mocassins from London

Home for the Holidays

2011-12-15T16:55:00.000-05:00

The holidays at my house this year look like...

laughing till we cry while watching Modern Family

wrapping presents under the great tutelage of the one and only Barb Davis

eating comforting home made soup (mmm roasted red pepper anyone?)

sleeping in and enjoying brunch over coffee and great conversation

having a snuggle fest with my adorable hound dog, Haliburton

learning how to tie a bow with wired ribbon (harder than it looks folks)

listening to Michael Buble's christmas album

blogging in my PJs on the couch

having access to a laser pointer and relentlessly teasing the cats

visiting with friends from high school

psyching myself up for a few last minute shopping trips to the Eaton Centre (shakes fist at own stupidity for not planning better)

Listening to my favourite Christmas CD: Phil Spector's Christmas album

coffee dates with my mama at my favourite coffee house
marvelling at how incredibly lucky I am to be surrounded by wonderful friends and family

Stress Relief

2011-12-13T12:19:00.000-05:00

When I am stressed I often find myself wandering into my kitchen to bake.

There is something in the smell of vanilla, the sifting of the flour, the greasing of the loaf pan and the satisfaction that comes form creating something delicious out of simple ingredients, that makes my heart feel calm and collected.

Baking always makes me feel good. I love that our house smells delicious with something baking away in the oven and the smell of warm banana bread cooling on the counter. I love that my roommates have huge smiles when they get to cut themselves a slice. Baking combines all the good things in life: delicious food, sharing, and giving.

What do you do for stress relief?

Tree Envy

2011-12-12T12:10:00.000-05:00

This year for the very first time my family and I won't have our own Christmas tree (this is due to our living arrangements a le moment, not in any way to lack of tree hunting or decorations because goodness knows we have enough of those) and I have to say, I am having serious tree envy. Twitter is just lit up (excuse the pun) with instagram pictures of people's Christmas trees and captions making it sound like decorating a tree is the. most. fun. ever. (which, I sadly know, is the truth) I always figured that Christmas as I knew it would change one year, I am not one to hold onto traditions for the sake of it, but I never really expected to miss the tree. The more I think about it the more I am almost glad that it's working out like this, it is really giving me perspective on what the Christmas season is really about. PRESEENTTSSS! Kidding, totally kidding. I'm apparently still upset about the this whole tree thing. To temper the lack-of-tree-sting I, obviously, went on pinterest and pinned all the pretty trees I could get my mouse on. These are a few of my favourites...

Was there a year or two that you had to go without a tree? Any tips? Happy holidays friends!

Is it really Sunday?!

2011-12-11T23:48:00.000-05:00

{image via pinterest}
Is it really Sunday?! I confess to being genuinely surprised when I was catching up on my blog reading today and everyone was posting their usual Sunday posts. Insert furrowed brow and checking phone to make sure the date is correct. I have been living in exam period time, which if you have ever experienced it, is basically like one giant weekend; all the days meld together and you can really only think about your time in six hour chunks "three hours on linguistics, break, two hours on cognitive...". Happily though, I am done--okay, I have one more exam but it's not for another ten days so it still kind of feels like I am done. I am relieved to have a break. I am headed back to the big smoke tomorrow and I am so excited! I can't wait to see my mama and give her a big hug, to get my Christmas baking on and rock a Santa hat while sipping eggnog and belting out Barbara Streisand holiday tunes, it's a Davis girl tradition.
What are you guys looking forward to over the holiday season?

Movies for the Holidays

2011-12-09T12:03:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday! Today I have my final exam and I couldn't be more excited for winter holidays to officially start! It is snowing like mad outside and I can't wait to cozy up in front of the TV with a hot mug of peppermint hot chocolate and watch some of my favourite holiday movies. In my experience everyone has their list of "must-watch-at-Christmas-movies" and I wanted to share mine with you. I like me some classics with a few non-traditional movies in there too. So, here are my top 9 Christmas movies.

1. Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer

1. To me, this is the quintessential Christmas movie. Every year I would watch it with my dad (which, if you know me, doing things with my dad is a rare occasion) so this holds a special place in my heart. My dad would always put a "misfit toy" in my stocking; a toy that didn't quite make manufacturers standards but needed some loving. I love traditions like that.

2. Love Actually

I will never forget the first time I saw this movie. I was 15 and my friend Otiena and I had spent all day being 15 and cool and decided to go see a movie. We fell in love with it immediately. To us it was a love manual with the "girl from bend it like bekham". Every year I watch it I take something new from it, depending on where I am in my own life and love situations. Plus...Hugh Grant.

3. The Original Grinch

Who doesn't love this movie? This was always a treat at my house to sit and watch the Grinch before bed (probably because as a grown up you realize it's only about 35 minutes long, which parents think is awesome). If you don't love this movie then there probably isn't much I can say at this point to change your mind. Let the who-bilation begin!

4. The Holiday

What's not to love? Jude Law? Kate Winslet? Jack Black? Cameron Diaz? Excellent soundtrack? Charming English country side? Finally getting out of bad relationships? The best fort you've ever seen? Yep.

5. Gremlins

I saw this movie when I was about 8 years old and it scared me straight (it resulted in lots of checking under beds and unplugging of VCRs), yet I still watch it every year. Now I think it's absolutely hilarious. Also, Corey Feldman is in it, which is also hilarious. Also gremlin carolling. Yep, that happens.

6. The Family Stone

I laughed, I cried, it was better than Cats. Okay, seriously though, I do laugh and I do cry and I love Diane Keaton. There are so many wonderful things about that movie that are real but portrayed in a way that you still feel like your watching a wonderful holiday film. My friend Simon and I disagree about two things: Romeo and Juliet and Sarah Jessica Parker. I happen to love her while Simon does not. Having said that, we both love the scene where her strata goes splat all over her perfect hair and outfit. Just wonderful. And did I mention Rachel McAdams? Just phenomenal.

7. The Royal Tenenbaums

This is one of the funniest movies I have possibly ever seen. Having said that I have made friends watch it with me and they look at me like I sprouted another head, so take it with a grain of salt. It has a superb cast and the acting is phenomenal (Ben Stiller is actually good *gasp*). My dad and I saw this in theatres when it came out and I think it was around Christmas, hence the association. Just watch it, that's all I'm gonna say.

8. Breakfast at Tiffany's

Let's be clear, this movie is good at any time of year. I love watching it at Christmas because it really makes you feel all warm and fuzzy at the end when Holly finally gives in and lets herself be loved. I take it as a reminder that Christmas is a time to both give and receive from those who love us (and to watch and marvel at Audrey Hepburn of course).

9. Home Alone

This is every kid's dream. Lock yourself in your huge, empty house. Set boobie traps. Eat ice cream sundaes. Watch movies your not supposed to watch. Go through your older brother's most prized possessions. Befriend your neighbour. Triumph over the bad guys. Excellent use of the song Run Run Rudolph and still get all your Christmas presents?! Yep! (and as a bonus that was before Macaulay Culkin got weird, he was just precocious).

What are your holiday favourites? Happy Friday!
{all images via pinterest}

Awkward and Awesome

2011-12-08T10:50:00.000-05:00

I'm linking up with Sydney (the other way more popular and petite Sydney) from the Daybook and her hilarious awkward and awesome Thursday series

~making weird hand gestures at your friend across the street and later having another friend say they saw you from the library window yet didn't see your friend across the street...hmmm

~waking up and walking down my slippery stairs in wool socks and promptly falling flat on my bum, hello bruising

~trying to wave at someone who I know on campus only to have them look away leaving me awkwardly waving to a window

~having an extremely sugary hot chocolate while studying and my best friend having to take me outside for a walk to calm down (haha thanks Simon)

~going to Starbucks on campus so often that they know my order now

~going to Starbucks on campus so often they know my order now (I think that one safely falls into both categories)

~feeling prepared for my exams! huzzah!

~having a gingerbread house decorating party

~having Kendi reply to one of my tweets...seriously, this happened

~drinking coffee in bed on Sunday AM and reading an awesome book

~less than a week till I am home for the holidays!

Happy Thursday beauties!

Procrastination or Creativity?

2011-12-07T14:16:00.000-05:00

I can't seem to sit down to write a blog post without wanting to talk about how much I am studying or not studying or not studying and thinking about blogging while not studying or just procrastinating in general. While that is interesting for my own brain to chew on, I know that nobody else cares. The life of a student is wonderful and relatively pain-free and completely devoid of reality (don't disagree, in real life nobody stays up till four in the morning watching the office and eating chocolate peanut butter balls) and I've learned that when the time to study comes around complaining is just not the right thing to do.

Although it is important to mention that it's entirely possible to procrastinate quietly. It's called pretending to study. A very useful technique. After exhausting all of my usual procrastination activities: folding laundry, vacuuming, cleaning my room, texting everyone I know, watching the office (what? it's my favourite show!) and colour coding my school binders, all I was left with was a very clean and organized room and a neat pile of "to study" materials. So I went on Pinterest. And got inspired. So I sketched, and wrote down beautiful quotes and spent time with the artistic half of my brain.

And you know what?

I actually studied after this.

I promise.

I heart my friends

2011-12-06T14:15:00.000-05:00

I wrote a little while ago about how I was having bloggers block. Since then I have been trying to think of new things to blog about and get my creativity flowing. One thing that I realized is a huge part of my life but that doesn't really make it on the blog is my friends. I love my friends. I feel so incredibly blessed to have such wonderful, hilarious and caring friends. If you have been following along you already know Simon, and today I want you to meet Alex. If you can't tell from the pictures he is my tall friend. I am 6 foot (well, 5"11 in bare feet so any footwear puts me at 6 foot or over) and he has at least four inches on me! Alex and I are both in science and we like to make really nerdy jokes and talk about scienc-y things (like surfactant and the words cleave and parse *ahem*). It drives our other friends a little crazy, but we bond over it so we don't care. Alex and I became friends last year when he and my boyfriend were resident assistants in the same building. When we met we were pretty much instantly friends, it was wonderful. He is one of the kindest people I have ever met and he is absolutely hilarious! I am so lucky to have him as a friend.

Clearly we have no fun together and aren't silly at all. Simon and Alex came over for brunch and we watched She's The Man while we ate homemade banana bread and muffins. We took these pictures after the movie when I was pleading with them to take some photos for the blog and we just ended up playing around with the self timer and being ridiculous. Sounds like a perfect way to spend a weekend to me.

Extra-Long Weekend

2011-12-02T10:04:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness it is finally the weekend! Bonus for me, today is the last day of classes so technically it's like one giant weekend just started, albeit a weekend filled with studying but still, it's exciting to be out of the normal school routine.

On Tuesday I wrote about how I was missing purpose and intention in my life, I am so excited to finally have a few moments to sit down and really evaluate where I am and what direction I want to be heading in. It's very easy to get caught up with small things that drive you crazy (like exams, cranky professors, due dates, people walking and texting), so I am making the choice to focus on things that make me smile. Like my best friend, my boyfriend, my mom, candy canes, twinkly lights and, if I'm being honest, the satisfaction of getting an A on an exam. So studying and holiday loving it is!

What are your weekend plans? Happy Friday beauties!

Its Here!

2011-12-01T14:31:00.000-05:00

I don't have much to say today--let's get real here for a moment: yesterday was my best friend's birthday and I gave him new wine glasses which we put to very good use--except...

Happy Birthday Best Friend!

2011-11-30T09:08:00.000-05:00

I want to monopolize the blog today to say a big HAPPY 22nd BIRTHDAY to my best friend Simon. Because he loves it so much and because it's a favourite of mine, I think quoting Wicked is appropriate...

like a comet pulled from orbit, as it passes the sun

like a stream that meets a boulder, half way through the wood

who can say if I've been changed for the better?

But because I knew you I have been changed for good.

So much of me is made from what I learned from you

you'll be with me like a handprint on my heart

and now whatever way our stories end

I know you have re-written mine by being my friend...

(who doesn't love Wicked, seriously)

I am so grateful to have Simon as a friend. In another life we probably would have been soulmates but this time around we are lucky enough to be best friends. Spending time together is as easy as breathing. We have been known on the not-so-odd occasion to spend entire days together and think nothing of it. You can usually find us quoting and/or watching movies or dreaming about our fantasy lives in New York/Australia/anywhere-but-here. He makes me laugh till I cry, he makes my heart smile, we take pictures where we point at each other for no apparent reason, people don't get our jokes (sorry guys), we know exactly what the other person is thinking, we shouldn't be put in the same room if we are expected to be quiet and well-behaved, we love Michael Bubble and pretty much anything and everything Emma Stone does (actually the only thing we disagree on is Sarah Jessica Parker).

Simon is my partner in crime, my shopping buddy, my dance partner, my shot-taker-without-chase-friend, my rock, my favourite. I love you S. Happy Birthday.

xoxoxoxoxo

Giveaway Winner

2011-11-30T08:08:00.000-05:00

Congrats girl! Email me!

Happy Tuesday beauties!

Just Words Today

2011-11-29T11:04:00.000-05:00

Guys, I'll be honest, I don't have anything prepared. I woke up and realized I hadn't planned anything for today and was secretly hoping that I had some unpublished post hidden somewhere in my archives that I had been saving for a rainy day (pun intended, it is in fact pouring rain here), but alas, no. No post, no funny comments, no pictures, just blankness. I made a deal with myself that I would blog every week day so gosh darn it, I am going to follow through with that.

I have to confess to feeling like I am not on my game; I've gone off my exercise plan, I'm not eating well, I am a tich (that's a word, roll with it) behind on my school work, the boyfriend and I haven't been communicating all that well. Overall not that great. It has a lot to do with the fact that it's November, which is notoriously the hardest month for students. It also has to do with the fact that I have not been intentional about my life recently. I haven't been focusing on what I want my life to be like and instead I am letting life's current just take me along for the ride.

That's fun for a while; just going with the flow and seeing what happens but I have neglected to be intentional. To be grateful every night and every morning, to check in with myself and see where my emotions and thoughts are throughout the day, considering the impact of my words on others, focusing on being selfless and not selfish. Everyone hits a bump in the road every once in a while and I am feeling grateful that i realized I have hit such a bump and am completely out of my proverbial wagon.

I also happen to believe that we become de-railed when the track that we were on wasn't the right direction. This has happened to be so many times I can't even count: I had a plan, I was sticking to it because that was the direction that my life was going to take and then BAM! I fell off the wagon, re-assessed and had a new path. I recently read a quote by Deepak Chopra that sums this up very nicely:

"Even when you think you have you life all mapped out, things happen that shape your destiny in ways you might never have imagined". Falling off the wagon is a wake up call from the universe going "give your head a shake and try to see things differently".

My goal for the rest of the day is to sit with that thought and meditate on it. To be aware of who crosses my path and what kinds of conversations I am having. This post was a bit of a deviation from my normal stuff but I am glad that I have this awareness and was able to write about it. Has anyone else had this before or experienced something similar?

Happy Tuesday!

a few of my faves...

2011-11-28T11:12:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday beauties! I start off each week by looking at the things that I am grateful for and that are making me smile. I am linking up with a {little} dash of ash and her weekly instagram link party because, I'm pretty sure instagram is my favourite app, hello professional looking photos!

Without further ado...

I spent this past weekend at home and it was just perfect. Sometimes you need to get out of your regular routine and re-charge at home. I feel very grateful that I go to school only an hour and a bit outside of my hometown, it's the "goldilocks" distance from home: not too far but not too close. It was so nice to spend time with my family and enjoy some delicious food and laughs. I got to watch my mom's girlfriend's hockey game on Sunday morning--I felt very Canadian. I discovered a new wine with my best friend Simon, we are super excited about it, very clever word play if I may say so (bonus 1$ of the proceeds goes towards AIDS research so any Ontarians out there: get yours at the LCBO).

I also want to take a moment to share some gratitude for my bloggy friends! I am so grateful that Cait of Pretty and Fun let me guest post about how grateful I am for my mom, Barb.

you can visit the post here. Cheers to gratitude for our moms, they are what makes the world go round.

I am also grateful for Emma who organized a blog clothing swap which I was able to participate in! I am happy that I got paired up with such an awesome swap partner, Sorren, she is just a peach. I got to try a style that I never would have picked for myself yet ended up really liking.

You can see how I styled my item here and how Sorren styled hers here.

Thanks bloggy friends, you guys are the best!

What are you grateful for? Happy Monday!

PS have you entered my Urban Outfitters glasses giveaway yet? Get on it!

Walk in the Park

2011-11-27T11:14:00.000-05:00

Spending time in nature is good. It's good for you. I always feel so relaxed after I go outside, get some fresh air and take a few moments to really appreciate how beautiful the world really is. I took these shots a while ago but they were too perfect not to share.

a little journal writing, a little dog walking, a little napping in the grass: it was practically perfect in every way. I hope that your Sunday's are filled with joy and love.

Swapping Shirts

2011-11-25T08:06:00.000-05:00

When my blog friend Emma put out an open invitation for a blog swap I couldn't turn it down: swap one item of clothing with another blogger, style it and send it back. Umm...yes please!

I was extremely excited when I found out that I would be swapping with Sorren of Classic Noise. This girl has incredible style and I am some what addicted to her blog (did I mention she is Canadian? Obviously love that!). We agreed to style a shirt since we figured with the cooler weather it would be the most versatile item. When I got this beauty in the mail I was a bit hesitant, i'm not one for a sheer look (fashion side note: big breasts and sheerness = big no-no) so I took this as a challenge to style something I would never pick out for myself. Blog Swap mission accomplished!

I have to confess to really liking this top. It's like that ice cream flavour that you always promise yourself you'll try but by the time you get up to the counter all you can say is "mint chocolate chip in a waffle cone!". Then one day when your friend gives you a spoonful of her delicious spicy chocolate and BAM! your hooked. Damn. I paired it with a pair of gap jeggins and black heels, which, for some reason just did not want to be photographed all together (this officially marks the start of awkward photo season aka winter. The light just wouldn't cooperate, hence the half shadow-half light on my porch. Forget about trying to fit my whole six-foot-self in the frame). In any case, I am kind of in love with this shirt. New mission? Find myself something similar. I do love a good fashion adventure.

Thanks again Emma and Joanna for arranging this whole swap shindig, I loved it!

See Sorren styling my shirt here and her version of her Banana Republic knit here.

Happy Friday beauties!

Little Reminders

2011-11-24T07:24:00.001-05:00

Source: love-remains-the-same.tumblr.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Source: s88.photobucket.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Source: faacku.blogspot.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Source: blog.workisnotajob.com via Sydney on Pinterest

Sometimes you just need little reminders.

Happy Thursday beauties. xo.
ps have you entered my giveaway yet?

Giveaway: Nerdy Chic

2011-11-23T11:45:00.002-05:00

Let's talk about something important: fake glasses.

Are you a fan? Are you not a fan?

I have been wearing fake glasses since high school (that would be six years, so well before they were cool aka edgy aka not really aka probably not cool at all). Although, I think Sydney said it best:

"Dear all those who are haters of fake glasses,

I used to be one of you.

And now i'm not"

{original post here}

In honour of my undying love for nerdy chic, I am giving away a pretty pair of Urban Outfitters readers!

I want all you fabulous blogistas to style yourselves pretty with this pair of your own awesome frames! Blazers, jackets, smart cardigans, the possibilities are endless! One lucky winner will get these frames:

You know who else likes these glasses....

{image via Kendi Everyday}

Just sayin...

To Enter:

1. Be a follower of Take Me For a Twirl via either google friend connect, RSS feed or Bloglovin (say which in the comment)

2. Leave a comment below saying how you would style your new frames

See? Easy as pie!

For a bonus entry tweet about the giveaway by mentioning {@}sydmdavis

leave a separate comment for each entry (one for following/style and a bonus one for tweeting)

Giveaway ends Wednesday November 30th

Find Me Here...

2011-11-22T10:12:00.000-05:00

Today you can find me guest blogging for the lovely Cait from Pretty and Fun! I'm talking about what I am most grateful for as she treks her way home for Thanksgiving. I hope all of my U.S friends are enjoying this week and looking forward to the long weekend.

Happy Tuesday beauties!

a few of my faves...

2011-11-21T16:37:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday beauties! I hope that everyone had a great weekend! I start each week off by looking back and feeling grateful for some of the things that make my life wonderful. I'm linking up with a {little} dash of ash and her instagram link party. So, without further ado, a few of my favourite things from over the weekend...

1. making a gigantic holiday candy bowl for our living room...I have to confess were quite far though it already

2. Stocking up on Starbucks goodies like Christmas blend and the Michael Buble Christmas album

3. Reading a fantastic book that is really changing the way I look at and approach my life

4. Having family dinner night with the roomies and eating tacos

5. Giving myself a pedicure and getting those toes scrubbed clean

5. Getting some gift ideas together and doing some online shopping

and then of course there was this...

This weekend was a lot of fun! I ate a ton of sushi (clearly I was too busy eating it to take a picture), hung out with some old friends and some new friends. I went out for a delicious Sunday morning breakfast, watched way too many movies to count and laughed. A lot. It was practically perfect in every way. What did you guys get up to this weekend? What are some things that you are loving?

Happy Monday!

Christmas Wish List

2011-11-18T13:17:00.000-05:00

My mom asked me the other day what I wanted for Christmas (because she is awesome and smart and she gets her shopping done early). I hadn't really put much thought into it since i've been busy with midterms and research projects and I didn't really have anything helpful to tell her. So, naturally I decided it would be a fantastic idea to make a visual representation and throw it on the blog--here ya go mom!

1. Tiffany's Bead Bracelet

2. Knee high flat bottomed boots

3. A bib necklace (stella and dot necklace featured)

4. Chambray shirt. J.Crew is preferrable

5. a DSLR camera (right now I use my iphone and point and shoot)

What is on your christmas list?! (mom that includes you too!)

Happy Weekend!

Stripes On Stripes

2011-11-18T08:45:00.000-05:00

{collared shirt: Thrifted Ralph Lauren, longsleeve tee: Gap, Boots: Hunter, Glasses: urban outfitters}

Sometimes you just gotta mix it up, ya know?

Happy weekending beauties.

Sarcasm and Syd: Frenemies for Life

2011-11-17T11:07:00.000-05:00

Are you guys ready? I'm about to get real deep. Well, maybe more like medium deep, we'll call it medium deep.

Hello, my name is Sydney and I am a sarcastic person. It has (probably) been five minutes since my last sarcastic remark.

{image via pinterest}

Sarcasm and I go way back. It all began in junior high when I realized that being funny wasn't cutting it anymore. I was, and still am, mature for my age. I have always been able to make people laugh and I have always been very smart. When you're a kid and gender roles don't matter you can be funny by being silly and making faces and goofing around. When I hit puberty I learned at school that being a girl who was funny involved making fun of people; more points if you did it and they didn't know you were teasing them. you couldn't just be funny, you had to be sneaky funny. I had learned to combine my smarts and my sense of humour in a way that got me peer points--because lets face it, when your thirteen all you want in life is friends. So friends I made, but I had become a total smart-ass.

This did not fly with my mother. There was a lot of arguing and a lot of headbutting that happened in my house because of my scathing remarks. I love my mother to bits and she put up with a lot during high school. She taught me how to harness my cleverness and use my wit effectively. I learned that I could be funny, smart and witty all at the same time while sparing people's feelings. At home, sarcasm became a tool for funny social commentary and observations. But when I went to school and I was still unleashing backhanded compliments and scathing remarks like I was getting paid to do it. The killer part is that the majority of the time i didn't mean it. Because sarcasm had been so positively reinforced when I was younger it ~~became~~ is my defense mechanism.

If I am scared, unsure, nervous, awkward I say something sarcastic. Its terrible. Often I find myself saying something to undermine another person's comment to remain ambivalent about whatever issue were talking about or to appear that I am above it. Sometimes people laugh and think it's funny. Sometimes not. The bottom line is: that's not who I am. My real self is kind and sweet-natured and funny (people tell me this, I promise I didn't make it up), but that's not always the Syd that my day to day real world gets to see. I really started to think about this the other day when my best friend Simon said "Syd, I've concluded that your flirting style is: talk to the person in an aggressively sarcastic and minimally insulting way" WHAT?! Oh jeeze. The more I thought about it, the more I realized I am deeply sarcastic to a point that it is probably impeding my ability to build and maintain friendships. I really have got to work on that. I really used to be proud of my sarcasm, because I was "above" other people, it somehow made me feel more intelligent and superior. Really all it does is get me into trouble and make me seem like someone I'm not: rude and, if I'm being honest, conceited. Sarcastic people are often known for their high sense of self.

Case and point, these images from pinterest

Sure we laugh at these because at a glance they are funny, we get it, sarcastic people are witty. But really...are they? Are they being true to themselves? ~~Was I~~ am I being true to myself? No.

I realized I need to change my ways, drastically. Kindness truly is what makes the world go round. I asked myself the other morning as I was lying in bed "if I am not being kind, then what am I doing?". I am not saying there is not a time and a place for funny remarks, because there most definitely are. Humour also makes the world go round and can bring the goodness out of bad times. But I am making a change. I am gong to choose words of kindness and good-natured humour. I am going to aim to make people feel good about themselves and welcome in place of aiming to make them laugh. I am going to be positive and aim to eliminate sarcastic complaining (perhaps the worst and most under looked form of sarcasm) and take action against things I don't like and can probably change. I acknowledge that being kind can make me vulnerable and standing up for something I believe in can mean defending it and not seeing eye to eye with everyone. I believe that it's all worth it. Being kind and being true to myself are more important than making people laugh.

As the popular phrase goes "I'm not saying it's going to be easy, but it's going to be worth it"

Dating Long Distance

2011-11-16T08:22:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday!

Today the amazing {av} of the blog Long Distance Loving is featuring my long distance relationship with Steve as part of her Distance Makes The Heart Grow Fonder series!

I'm so excited to have my story being featured on such an awesome blog! Thanks {av} for making it all look so glamourous! Head on over there to see how were making long distance work.

Library Chic + Giveaway Winner

2011-11-15T09:40:00.001-05:00

What I'm Wearing

Tee: H&M

Skirt: American Apparel

Belt: thrifted

Shoes: Spring

"when I got my library card that's when my life began" ~Rita Mae Brown.

Libraries are my happy place. I love them. I love the smell of old books. I love the fact that when I walk in I literally feel overwhelmed by the amount of knowledge contained in the pages on the shelves. I love that everyone there has a shared purpose. I used to spend hours there as a kid and I can distinctly remember being denied certain books when I was younger because I was such an advanced reader that my librarian didn't believe me. For me reading is the ultimate release. I love getting lost in a book; living the plot, getting to know the characters, laughing and crying. My mom was forever finding me in the mornings asleep with a flaslight and book across my chest. I still read at night, I think it drives Steve a bit up the wall, but he knows I love it so he never says anything.

I'm probably not doing a very good job convincing anyone that I am not a huge nerd, but gosh darn it I am one and proud of it. I have to confess that nerdy boys are my favourite kind of boy. Squints from the Sandlot was my first movie crush; those glasses. Swoon. I am also partial to Buddy Holly and anyone who rocks skinny jeans and converse, preferably with a pocket protector....

Did I say all that out loud? Hmmm. I think I should learn to focus, let's start by getting back to business! The winner of the knitted cowl giveaway is...

Congratulations Jessica! Email me!

Happy Tuesday beauties!

a few of my faves...

2011-11-14T09:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday beauties! I start every week off by taking a moment to be grateful for all the little magical moments that make life oh so awesome! I am linking up with a {little} dash of ash and her instagram party because, lets be real, instagram is awesome.

I had a very relaxing/uneventful/totally great weekend. It was one of those grey, overcast weekends where you stay inside and watch movies with your friends while you eat homemade muffins and banana bread (aka brunch aka mid day deliciousness). Yes I most definitely made everything on that brunch tray, even the jam. Many life points for me.

I also spent a large chunk of time working on what I fondly call "real life preparation" which is pretty much anything outside of any school work so grad school applications and blogging (yes, I classify blogging as part of real life, no judgement).

I am working my way through Jill GG's e-book about style blogging and I highly recommend it. Jill has great tips and advice and gives you homework at the end of each section so that you can implement what she's talking about. She knows what's up. I also started the process of answering the "question" component of my application to the school of Midwifery. Let me be real and say it is daunting. The questions are so all encompassing and huge that it's difficult to know where to start. So I went back to my seven year old ways and did a classic brain storm sesh. It helped a lot. My desk wasn't happy this weekend, I just dumped everything on her and did all my work from my bed. We made a deal that I will be more diligent to do both my school work and my real life work there. Were cool now. And of course, there was epic amounts of time spent with these...

are you guys into the Christmas drinks yet?! I always approach the cash with the intention of ordering an eggnog latte but then I chicken out because I am very particular about when I try my first eggnog of the season: it has to be in December and it has to be the President's Choice brand from Loblaws. So instead I go for my second favourite a Soy Tazo chai. What is everyone's Starbucks go-to?

Ah. What a lovely weekend filled with perfect little moments. I am so blessed.

Help! Bloggers Block

2011-11-13T12:30:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday, I am sitting in front of the computer with glorious amounts of free time and I've got nothing.
Except this confession which I now realize is necessary for me to write about:
I have bloggers block.

I'm just not quite sure what I want to write about these days.

I think it has something to do with the near constant rain and mist that were experiencing here in southern Ontario. All I want to do is crawl into my bed with a cup of tea and read and/or nap.

While that is a wonderful treat it's not necessarily conducive to getting inspired per se.

Or writing well.
I'm thinking that is more the problem: I am having trouble getting my thoughts out in a funny/meaningful/deep/hilarious/well written form.

I love writing, but I'm not all that good at it. I can write you a research paper the likes of which you've only seen in Nature (yeah, that was a nerd joke, if you laughed I love you) but, funny is hard. Meaningful is hard. Keeping with a coherent voice is hard, especially if your mind goes from funny to serious to self loathing to joyful all in about thirty seconds. Is that it? My brain works too fast? Doubtful. I think I've plateaued with my own ability and it's time to ask for help. Asking for assistance is hard, but my mom, the amazing woman and parent that she is, taught me that it's necessary. So here I go:

I need help with my writing.

If you are reading this and thinking that you might know a thing or two about writing I want to know that thing or two! I will trade you for a good old fashioned snail mail letter (I'm not kidding). Or if you are having a similar situation as me (i know right?!) I'll give you snail mail too and we can be writing friends. Ahhh, asking for help actually feels pretty good. My spirits are being lifted and my shoulders feel a little lighter. Apparently writing a blog can make you stressed out. Who knew?

With that off my chest I am off to enjoy a beautiful Sunday filled with coffee dates, a walk in the park and a nap. oh happy days.

ps I'm totally serious about swapping snail mail for writing help so if you are one of those kind souls that help people like me (who apparently ask for writing help on their fashion and lifestyle blog) then send me an email sydneymdavis{at}gmail{dot}com and I will love you forever. You are the best.

pps on a completely non-writing related note my Knitted Cowl giveaway is still open which means you should probably enter it, because cowls are awesome and so is free stuff

Cupcake Party!

2011-11-11T10:38:00.001-05:00

What do you get when you want to have a work social and eat delicious desserts?!

A cupcake decorating party, of course!

My roommate and I both work at the copy and print center on campus (well, my roommate is way cooler than me and is the assistant manager, NBD) and we decided that we would host our work social at our house. There were lots of suggestions thrown around as to what exactly we were going to do for a social with a 50$ budget (yep, we have a social budget, were legit); line dancing, pub crawl, movie night but it was decided that we would spend an evening decorating cupcakes.

Can you say capital F-un?!

{winterlicious cupcake}

It was in all truthfulness, a very fun night. One of the guys that we work with decorated four cupcakes to himself and said "this is way more fun than I thought it was going be!". Cupcakes for the win. We also agreed that we were all very skilled in the art of decorating cupcakes.

See? Mad Skills.

Next social?! My vote is for a Mustache Party!

Happy weekending beauties!

PS have you entered my giveaway to win a knitted cowl?!

Canadiana

2011-11-10T10:19:00.000-05:00

Sweater-Thrifted, Jeans-Pink, Necklace-TheShineProject, Bangles-Mom's closet

Okay so I kind of maybe, totally LOVE this sweater. I got it a little while ago at Value Village and it has everything I could ever want in a thrifted sweater: varying widths of stripes, a pocket, a crest. I'm swooning just thinking about it.

If there were a cliched Canadian teen tv show, this is what the foxy heroine would be wearing.

Maybe throw on a pair of olympic mittens and a toque, for good measure.

I can picture it now, she would eat beaver tails on the Rideau canal, go horseback riding in Calgary, hiking in British Columbia, fishing on the east coast.

Oh it would be glorious.

She would have a boyfriend with a wonderful Canadian name like Gord or Dave. This is all coming together nicely.

But of course that would never fly on mainstream television, were too busy watching Italian-American's show their couters at clubs. So, instead were stuck with Corner Gas and Trailer Park Boys, and let's not forget preventit.ca ads. Sigh.

Easy as Pie Make-Up Tutorial

2011-11-09T16:49:00.002-05:00

Hi beauties! I hope that you are all having a fabulous week! It has been grey and rainy here in Southern Ontario, but that's alright, sometimes you just want to curl up in bed with a good book and a cup of tea. Mmmmm, fall comforts!

Since I have been stuck inside, I decided to to a quick little tutorial on how I do my make-up everyday. I'm not fancy and I don't know any cool techniques (my roommate--and occasional photographer--Devon knows everything about make up! I am hoping to get her to do a way cooler video on make up application, but until then were stuck with the plain jane way), but it works for me. It does take me under five minutes in the morning and gives my face just a little something extra.
Bonus features of this video:
-you get to see me do the bug eyes look
-I make up a new verb "mascara-up", you have my full permission to use it
-you get to see right up my nose! yay!
-I look like I have something pinching me almost the entire time...now I know what I look like when I put my make up on
-three different awkward laughs...
Enjoy!

Let me know what you think! I may have had just a little bit of fun working with imovie haha!

PS did you know that I totally finally got a facebook page for Take Me For a Twirl?! Exciting right?

PPS did you enter my giveaway to win a knitted cowl?

I'm over here today...

2011-11-09T10:14:00.001-05:00

Hi beauties!

I'm guest posting over for the lovely and ever fabulous Rachael of Rachael, Really while she is on vacation (what a lucky girl!). I'm talking about getting re-inspired about your own wardrobe--what fun!

Happy Wednesday!

PS have you entered my giveaway yet?