not so scary

It was one thing when people I went to high school with started getting married, I accepted it, but realized that they weren't really in my 'direct' group of friends so I felt fairly far removed. But last weekend 2 people in my 'direct' circle of friends said their vows, and then their 'I dos'. Okay I can handle it, one couple in my friendship circle is married, big deal. But next weekend another set of my friends are getting married. Oh my, part of me is panic stricken- should I be marriage ready? Part of me thinks, what's the rush, we are still so young? But there is this other part of me, an unselfish part that is just happy for her friends and at the end of the day, whether they're married or just dating, this step is not as scary as I had once thought. Congratulations James and Michelle! Congratulations Joe and Megan!

neglect

Oh dear blog, how I have neglected thee. I promise I still love you, and my lack of copy on your web page is due to the crime of false advertising, which I do not want to commit. My blog is entitled the 'Danielle Adventures' and quite frankly my life has been very unadventurous as of late. I could tell you about work, or what I ate for dinner last night,I had a cheeseburger fyi, but those things aren't really all that entertaining and I fear I might never have returning readers if I wrote about such things. That being said, I have committed myself to having some sort of an adventure this coming long weekend and I will report back...stay tuned.

true north strong and free

It's been over a week since the G20 came to Toronto; I waited to post about this because quite frankly everyone else took care of the publicity and I really didn't know what to say. That being said, it's been a week and I still don't know what to say. If you live in Toronto, it was almost as though the G20 weekend never happened Monday morning [minus of course a few boarded up windows] Everything seemed well in the City of Toronto post G20 and peace had been restored so to speak.

I support protesting; the opportunity and acceptance of free speech is one of the great things about Canada, but those that took the protesting to a non-peaceful place should be embarrassed. I was embarrassed of Toronto that day, not by the City itself [because quite frankly the police and City did an amazing job] but with the people that decided to deface public property, put people in danger and ultimately protest the G20 in a dangerous, violent and non-effective way.

You have a problem with the G20? I get it, I don't think it ever should have been in Toronto and I hated that it was here, but you didn't see me setting police cars on fire or throwing rocks through windows [among many other things]. To those of you that were not in Toronto that day, and perhaps received a negative perspective through the media, allow me to clarify a few things. First, the Toronto Police force did an amazing job with the resources they were provided. And secondly, although there were some people protesting the G20 in an ineffective way, there were also many peaceful protesters that represented Canadian free-speech well.

I did a bit of research on past G20 conferences, and guess what? There have been numerous violent protests before. Not to say it's right, or that it should be expected, but why make the same mistake again and again? The Toronto Police force said they were under resourced to handle the G20, and obviously they were right. I am still at a loss, because there seems to be so much wasted energy, money, anger that resulted in a violent situation.

melting

Oh hey there, it's me Danielle, I'm just writing you from my air conditioned office which is tres fantastical...but, I am dreading tonight because it is then that I am forced to return to my one bedroom, top floor, non-air conditioned apartment, dum dum dum...

I feel as though I am a non-winner when it comes to my body temperature; I complained in Timmins when it was -46 (after windchill) and I am complaining today when it is +44 (after humidity) in Toronto. Where is the balance? Am I forced to only be comfortable in late September, early October and then again in Mid May? Damn you global warming! I am not off the hook for this global warming business; I too am a contributor to the ever-evolving issue, but I am, or so I believe I am, a conscious contributor. We obviously can not go through this life without leaving some sort of a carbon footprint, but I think people need to start taking some responsibility. I saw someone litter the other day, and I was shocked...I think that's a good thing. Okay, obviously not the littering part, but the fact that littering is such a faux-pas these days [stupid littering dude]! If more people took a little better care of this world, maybe we wouldn't be in such a dramatic state of unstable, ever-changing weather. Okay, that's my rant...I can go back to enjoying the air conditioning in my office, which yes I am aware, is a negative contributor to the environment.

blah blah blah

It would seem as though when there is negativity in the air it breeds, and in some cases it has a bit of help. Today I experienced the art of negativity being alluded to, concluded to and then shared. Why is it that as people we are so eager to focus on the bad and forget about the good? Is it that we get some sort of weird fix from sharing [hmm or creating] such news, like it is somehow more juicy and scandalous than a positive spin? I don't know, I am just as confused as the next, but I do know that I am going to make a better effort to focus on the good, feed off that energy and push-away the bad, because to quote one of the best; "A man is but a product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes." -Gandhi

calling 2010

Today when I woke up I was under the impression that the date was June 18th 2010. I was also under the impression that I lived in Toronto [notably a multicultural city] and that Toronto was in Canada. But today I witnessed racism, and it literally caught me off guard [as it should]. I'm not going to go into detail, I don't really think that it's necessary to the point I am trying to I make, but I did want to address it. Collectively, as the human race we have come so far, and yet we are so far behind....sad

back in the game

Tonight I am blogging from a Dell Inspiron Mini 10 Netbook...oh yes my friends, that right there was some prime product placement and I hope that you took note. I am back at it, my first experiental marketing campaign in almost, umm 1 year and 3 months is kicking off on Sunday and I couldn't be happier. To say that I have been absent from the industry is a lie, as we are well aware I worked on that tiny little thing called the Olympic Torch Relay, but that was not this, I am happy to be back here, working at 'this'. I have been in the industry for almost 3 and a half years, and I am a fan...yes, with any job [and/or industry] there are flaws, there are ups and there are downs, but for some reason I keep coming back. Could it be, because I genuinely enjoy it? Umm, yes...I think yes. My latest campaign is not perfect, as is true with any campaign; there are growing pains and there are still many challenges ahead but I am happy. I am happy that we are executing for the first time on Sunday and that this program is going to be amazing. Oh ya, I said it...amazing! I can't leak too much about the program just yet, this crazy little thing called a non-disclosure agreement..hmm, je ne sais pas! But I do know that I am back, I am out of any rut that I may have been in, and I am excited [to say the least].

success

I have been searching for the perfect monokini for at least 4 years. I have tried on bathing suit after bathing suit hoping that one would fit. I am a tall girl, but I've got a short torso, then there's that every so chesty chest...monokinis were not made for people like me; but god how I wanted one! The stubborn being that I am has tried on almost every monokini that ever graced my presence [minus the Ed Hardy collection, because please can we say Jersey Shore?] I am not exaggerating when I say that last summer I tried on 50 suits alone. It is true that the monokini has peaked in popularity over the last year and now there are more options, hence my search is now deemed successful! I stumbled into a bathing suit shop in downtown London, one that I have never seen before, and I am very happy that we crossed paths. For me the search is over, but for those of you still in search of the perfect bathing suit, I wish you luck.

can I eat it?

Today on MSN.ca there was an article entitled, '10 Strange Attractions Across Canada'. For curiosity [and bragging rights no doubt] I thought to myself, I bet I've seen it all, hah was I wrong; qu'est-ce The Giant Perogie? Oh yes, it's true...in Glendon Alberta there is the World's largest Perogie [not edible unfortunately]. I love perogies p.s so I have to ask myself how I possibly missed this wonderful masterpiece throughout my travels. I am not going to lie, a lot of my enjoyment came from discovering, yet another, giant structure on Canada's soil. I saw the giant fiddle, lobster, fire hydrant, gorilla, fish, Easter egg and numerous dinosaurs [amongst many other ridiculous things]. It is quite apparent that Canadians enjoy giant landmarks and guess what? I secretly love them too. I am not a simple being, but I do appreciate the little things [in this case not so litte], but point is, I can be amused quite easily and this my friends is amusing. Next time you're in Glendon, Alberta check it out, the Giant Perogie lives on.

la la land

I just got back from LA, this morning at 5:25 to be exact. I had never been to LA and let's just say I am a fan. I'm not sure I could live there, but the beautiful weather, beaches and energy of that city is enough for me to put it in the 'like' category. On Sunday night we drove down to San Diego to catch a concert, Down With Webster. If you haven't heard of them, consider yourself now informed, and you should put them in your 'like' category too. They are a 7 member band from Toronto and they are A to the MAZING. I am ashamed to say that Sunday was my first time seeing them live, but let me tell you that they are most definitely performers and huge contenders in the music world. The energy that they bring to the stage is incredible and I was entertained the entire time. I am not even sure how to categorize their music, which is maybe why I like them, it's not fun when you can put a label on something [or someone]. Down With Webster is rock with a side of hip-hop, a pinch of rap and some pop all thrown together to make something extremely memorable. It was interesting to watch 7 guys interact on stage; none of them have the spotlight, they are all equally important to the group which I liked. Each guy is completely different in their own way, but one thing that they all have in common is their humility and energy! I was lucky enough to spend some time with the guys Sunday after the show and then on Monday for a photo shoot; they are all humble, polite and extremely kind. They are 7 very talented individuals and together they make one very energetic and talented band. If you haven't been so fortunate to check them out, please do http://www.downwithwebster.com and if you're in the Toronto area on June 25th I encourage you to come to their show at the Sound Academy, I know I'll be there.

the sparkle

I have been waiting two years for the premiere of Sex and the City 2. I was lucky enough to see a pre-screen last night and I am going to be honest, I was happy, but there was no 'wow' for me, or as Carrie would say there was no sparkle. Perhaps it's because some of the characters have outgrown me and are married, settled and have children...not sure? Long story short, there was not a lot of sex and there was not a lot of city. [okay that's a lie, there was a little bit of sex]

The promised wardrobe did not disappoint; the shoes were amazing, the clothes were high fashion [can you say amazing] and the bags were...umm...amazing! No my friends, there was no disappointment in that department...only jealousy, a lot of jealousy. The wardrobe was very, very Sex and the City.

I don't want to seem ungrateful for Sex and the City 2, because I'm not. I am very happy that they made a sequel and I was thoroughly entertained but it did not 'sparkle' like Sex and the City should.

all that and a bag of chips

Advertising for grocery items rarely works on me and more than that I am not one to buy new products; I buy what I like and what I know. That being said, back in the day I did buy green [and purple] Ketchup just because it intrigued me. All of this aside, yesterday as I was walking the aisles of my grocery store I was stopped dead in my tracks by one particular product; Thick Cut Ball Park Hotdog flavour chips. The name got me thinking of how delicious a hotdog is at a ball game but I could not even begin to comprehend how that taste translates into chip form. I went on President's Choice website to investigate this product further and I was informed that the chip is infused with ketchup, mustard, relish and hotdog flavours- how do you put those into seasonings? I then read a product review on the website from an annonymous fan, "...there was an explosion of flavour in my mouth. I was first hit with a smokey grilled hot-dog flavour. As I chewed, other flavours started to come through. I definitely tasted the relish and then it finished with the distinctive mustard flavour. It is so neat how there seems to be "layers" of flavour in these chips(presidentschoice.ca)" Although I am intrigued I am not completely sold on the idea of a hotdog in chip form. Why not just go to a ballgame and enjoy the real deal?

stalk much?

I have made myself completely accessible via a simple Google search and I have absolutely no problem with that. To me, Social Media is a fantastic way to promote one’s self…but that being said, I don’t have anything to hide. It is absolutely true that there are more than a few ‘unflattering’ pictures of me on Facebook, but those are hard to uncover unless I enable you to do so. The topic of ‘researching’ via the internet has triggered my interest as of late and ultimately that has the wheels in my head spinning. When did we become so independent of that little thing called our mind and when did we become so dependent on letting the click of a mouse do the decision making for us? I too am guilty of the Facebook creep, but sometimes I wonder how much is too much.

Social Media is a direct catalyst to the projection of one’s self, whether you want to believe it or not. The topic of Social Media has recently made me uneasy, and I have started to question whether these platforms are positive contributors to our lives [which I know that for many reasons they are]; or whether they are merely platforms to disable our communication skills and ultimately hinder our personal [and relationship] progression. I have witnessed first-hand Social Media effecting people’s lives, here are a few; a friend not going on a first-date due to a Google search; mutual friends getting into a fight because of a Facebook Wall post; couples breaking-up because of Facebook photos; a potential employee not getting a first-interview due to some ‘bad’ Facebook photos [and consequently the opposite]; and the list goes on and on. I am not arguing that Social Media is ruining our lives, because it’s not, but instead I am arguing that people need to get back-in-touch with their minds and let their sense of personal judgement and gut feelings assist them in their decision making. Some things are better left to the imagination, even if it’s not that hard to find some help...

creativity in the print

I am a fan of fashion; I am a fan of being confident and comfortable in your clothes, and I am a huge fan of adapting trends while staying true to your individuality. If you were to take a look through my closet there is one thing that would stay consistent; everything has a bit of personality. I have clothes with sequins, beading, ribbons and lace. I have clothes with animal prints, abstract prints, stripes, floral prints and polka dots. Your clothes should be fun. They should reflect your personality and they should make you feel confident. Clothes are more than just something to cover your body, but instead they are an extension of you, so how do you want to project yourself?

It would seem as though in the last few seasons, fashionistas have been faced with the gift of creativity and that is a wonderful thing. It is possible to be trendy while being an individual and this season is embracing that notion to a tee. Spring [and summer] 2010 is the season of prints and that my friends means the possibilites are endless. The key to this trend is to have one bold print and wear neutrals to counter-balance. Whether it's a printed skirt, shorts, shirt, a printed dress or scarf- wear a pattern and you will most definitely be your very own trend-setter.

Shrek-tacular colours?

As I was perusing through my Cosmo this morning I noticed an O.P.I ad, which made me take a second glance. My favourite nail polish often jumps on-board with a theme and then unleashes a line of colours that reflect this. Two years ago it was a line that had a Bollywood and East Indian influence, last year they came out with a South Beach line and this year it would seem that it is about the movie Shrek? Yes my friends, I said Shrek. O.P.I is a salon brand, they are not a brand that targets to a younger audience and more than that, they project such a pish-posh attitude that the Shrek influence kind of seems [dare I say] ‘beneath their brand’. Are they getting that desperate for some partnership money that they need to pair-up with an animated film, or maybe I am way off here. But at the risk of sounding arrogant, I don’t think that I am. The immediate thought that went through my head was, hmm maybe they are trying to target a younger audience, but no they have their ‘Nicole’ brand for that [it is cheaper and definitely targets younger consumers]. Then I thought maybe they are trying to project a more playful image, but again no, that is why they have ‘Nicole’. O.P.I has worked so hard at making consumers believe they are above the rest, and actually yes their product is amazing, so why the sudden change of heart? I am actually perplexed, and it’s not just me; I took a mini-poll and all were confused by this mixed-brand-image [yes, I am that dorky]. It is safe to say that I am a little turned-off by O.P.I after seeing that ad. That being said, they do sell great quality and I know that I will continue to purchase their products in the near future- minus that new purple polish entitled ‘funkey dunkey’.

all the crazy people stuff

It's been said before and it will be said again; I like advertising. A lot of my favourites come from auto makers because I feel like they really need to work hard to differentiate themselves from their competitors, and the good ones do. Land Rover is not exactly an innovative brand, they are a classic brand and one that does not generally need advertising. They have a returning fan-base and more than that they are the type of brand that gets passed through the generations. I stumbled upon this commercial and it just made me smile; it's short, sweet and clever. Take a looksy, and watch out for all the crazy people stuff.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSgkrtyoPcA

the art of realization

Human beings are interesting creatures. No two people are alike, and yet it is inevitable that we share similarities with at least one other person in this World. I am generally an optimist and I truly believe that I can communicate with any person if I have to; but that doesn’t mean that I am going to ‘hit-it-off’ with every person I interact with. I have always known that there are certain people I connect with better than others, but I stopped the over-analytical thought process there because to me, it just made sense. I know that although I am congenial, I am not overly generic [take that as you will] and therefore it is not a challenge to find common ground with another, but rather it is a challenge to find a connection beyond this. Recently however I discovered that there can be people in your life that genuinely understand you, more than just having an awareness of you. This is enlightening to me; this is not only an interesting insight into human interaction, but also into myself because I will admit I had settled with the idea that there was a limit on human understanding and relation. This recent epiphany left me with, as per usual, more questions than answers, but ultimately I found a great comfort. I guess the lesson here, at least for me, is that you shouldn't just settle because you're comfortable...but rather strive for those things that you don't even know exist.

daily inspiration

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." - Mark Twain

the art of observation

I am a self-proclaimed people watcher. I’m not ashamed; some of my best entertainment [and insight] has come from observing others. I am a huge fan of the streetcar commute because it allows me to observe the same people on a day-to-day basis, and I find it interesting to see their routinely habits. You might say to yourself, hmm Danielle is not a people watcher, she is a creeper…but I assure you not. I am not one of those people that stare at others in an uncomfortable nature; no I am just a person that finds human interaction and human behaviour extremely interesting.

To date, some of my best observations have occurred on the streetcar. There is one lady on the streetcar that brings fresh-cut flowers from her garden every Monday morning. I assume they are for her desk at work, and I like her routine. There is a man on the streetcar [that I have watched commute for 2 years] that will only sit in one particular seat, if it’s not available, he will stand. He ends up standing most days, which boggles my mind because there are so many other seats available. I wonder if he has OCD, or whether he has a certain attachment to that seat. There is another man that never says a word to anyone, he looks shy and uncomfortable the entire streetcar ride and every day I smile at him attempting to get some sort of reaction but so far, no dice. There is another woman that sits at the back of the streetcar and places her bags on the seat beside her. When a person asks her if they can sit down beside her [politely I might add] she proceeds to ‘huff’ and stare them down the entire time she is moving her bags. She makes a huge production out of the matter and I can’t help but wonder why someone would waste so much energy on being so negative to others; I have seen her do this at least four times.

I like observing others; I find that it is an interesting way to gain some insight into one’s self. I think that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they act when they think no one is watching, and conversely the way they act when they think that there are people watching them. I am always aware that there are probably those ‘people watching’ me, and that is why I attempt to project an attitude of positivism. I know that I am guilty of the same routine day in and day out, but human beings are creatures of habit, so that is to be expected. I sometimes wish that I could gain more insight into those strangers I see every morning, I wonder if my analysis of them is correct or whether I am way off and actually have no idea what their lives are like. I guess I will never really know, so for now I will continue my observations quietly in my head.

hey there hot stuff...

The latest and greatest from my friend's at BMW land is the bathroom teaser. Now it would seem that you're not just buying a car, you are investing in a relationship, a personal relationship. Better yet, they are stepping up their game and encouraging a younger age bracket to invest by conducting a 'drive-to-web' component to their campaign [huge fan of drive-to-web p.s]. So what are they doing? Well...I am so happy you asked, please allow me to explain; the bathroom teaser campaign is running in fine establishments in downtown Toronto and Vancouver. When young men walk by the mirror there is a flirtatious message written in 'lipstick' which changes into a phone number which prompts the potential BMW consumer to send a text for photos. Once the text is sent, a link goes back to the consumer which leads them to a website with the headline "We were made for each other," and downloadable beauty shots of the new 3 series Coupé.

I guess first things first, this seems like a sleazy attempt to get new consumers, but at the same time you have to admit it is clever, and well BMW did conduct a trial earlier this year...and it works! I am a huge fan of out-of-the-box advertising and I mean if you really analysis it, this campaign makes sense. BMW consumers are investing in a relationship with a lifestyle, not just a car, and the relationship is staring in a social setting over a flirtatious text [as oh so many do]. This campaign is just another reason why I am a fan of the BMW brand. Feel free to click on the title to go directly to the article.

t to the dot

I love Toronto. I have been quoted as saying I would be happy to move out of this city, and although that is true if the right opportunity arose, I can't deny that I am in a loving relationship with Toronto. First things first, the people here are not mean. Ya, it is definitely true that there are mean people, but for the most part if you smile, or say hello to someone in this city they will pay you the same courtesy back. The reason I think Torontonians get the bad rep is because they are self-involved {not necessarily a bad thing p.s], not because they're rude. The pace of life here is faster and people don't always take the time to breathe, but that doesn't make them rude.

Reason numero deux why I love this place is that everyone is super cool in their own way. I mean, I could rock almost anything I wanted to, walking downtown, and I bet not a lot of people would even notice. People in Toronto are individuals and they're not afraid to be, I like that; Toronto has done great things for my confidence levels no doubt.

Why else do I like T to the dot, well because there are so many different cultures. Why is this cool you ask? Well, for one [and this is merely a selfish component] there are so many different types of food and they are all oh so delicious. I appreciate that I can get delicious ethnic food, that is legit. However, the non selfish component of this, is that culture in a city is an amazing thing that creates appeal for not only people to visit but also for people to live. Canada is a mosaic dammit, and Toronto is helping lay the pieces.

The number one [best thing] about this city is that it keeps you guessing. No matter where you go in this concrete jungle, there is always something new happening and for me, that is a wonderful thing.

bum no more

Today is my second day of working full-time, once again, and I am oh so very excited. Consequently this was the first job offer that I received and I couldn't be happier that I took the opportunity. I guess it is hard to judge a company based on one day, but I have a pretty good feeling thus far and usually my 'gut feeling' doesn't lie. In my interview I was very honest about the work environment that I wanted and I think they have delivered. I find it refreshing to meet people who care about their business [and obviously making a profit] but also those that care about their work and their employees. Obviously I have a lot to learn about this company and the people that I am working with, but I would like to report that so far, so good.

memory lane

Tonight I am going out for dinner with my grandfather, my parents and my aunt and uncle; this is an annual April tradition, one that I rarely miss if I can avoid it. My Grandpa insists on doing dinner every April because ten years ago this month, my Grandma Cook passed away, and this dinner is important to him. I haven't thought about my Grandma in awhile, but today it hit me that it doesn't seem like ten years at all, it really seems like maybe two and I do miss her. The fact is, this time of year is a sensitive one in the Grandparent department because my Grandpa Dale also passed 5 years ago around this time, and I miss him too. I can remember both of my Grandparents deaths like it was yesterday, whereas sometimes I can't remember what I ate for breakfast. I can remember exactly where I was when I found out that my Grandma was admitted to the hospital; I was eating dinner...pasta. I remember visiting her in the ICU and unfortunately watching the doctor take her off of life support; the funeral seemed like a breeze compared. My Grandfather's death is just as present in my memories. I remember visiting him in the hospital and giving him a stuffed Giraffe, telling my younger cousins jokes to keep them from worrying and the morning he died I had been awake all night because I just knew. Obviously these memories aren't the easiest to retrieve. They are reminders of just how painful death can be, but it also makes me grateful to have had such wonderful Grandparents. The good thing about thinking about both of them is that even though the memories of their deaths are very present in my mind, so are the memories of them when they were alive and I wouldn't trade those for anything. This time of year also makes me realize just how grateful I am to have two wonderful Grandparents that are very much alive, and that I can build many more memories with them. Like I said, even though this time of year is a little bit painful, it is also a wonderful time of year because even though life gets busy sometimes it makes me stop and remember the memories I have shared, and will share with my Grandparents.

progress report

This is my progress report...if you can call it that.
I still weigh 15 pounds more than I did in October. I ONLY ate 7...count them 7, mini-eggs over the Easter holiday. My legs and/or entire body have been sore every single day for the last 2 weeks. And I have sworn off dessert completely (minus that piece of blueberry pie I ate last weekend...).
The upside...I have noticed some serious definition in my arms. I fit, and not just squeeze myself in like a sausage woo-hooo the button does up, but actually fit into my shorts [amongst other things]. It seems I have saved a lot of money by not stocking up on mini-eggs [small success but I take it where I can]. I guess if my body has been sore, that means I am doing something right...one would hope. And really, I don't like dessert all that much...only chocolate. So my friends, as it stands the progress report is a bit slow moving and although I am not back to my old weight, I am slowly but surely getting back to my old shape.

excuse my rant

I apologize in advance for my rant, but I do not apologize for my opinion. Today I witnessed something that, although not the end of the world, I found to be quite inconsiderate, and even perhaps rude. I guess to some my opinion on this matter is going to seem ridiculous and you might just think I am a little loco [perhaps you are correct] but this is my platform, so please excuse my rant. I find it rude when a visibly healthy person chooses to use the handicap stall [in a public bathroom] when there are numerous other stalls available. Perhaps I am being a bit harsh, but I don't think that I am necessarily in the wrong. We all know how great the extra space in that stall can be; I mean who doesn't want to sprawl out in a public bathroom and have a party (please note the sarcasm). No my friends, you enter the stall for one reason and one reason only: to do your business. The handicap stall is in place for those that need it; those that require a little extra space, the higher toilet seat and the hand railing to assist them in successfully completing their business. If you are the person I witnessed using the ever so sacred stall today, you do not 'need' these things to complete the task at hand and therefore are being over indulgent in the bathroom [okay, I am now over the top but you get my point]. The handicap stall is for those that need it, if you take up the stall just because you feel like it you are just as bad as the person that parks in a handicap parking space. Think about it.

big fat meanie

The other day it was brought to my attention that I was mean. The reason why? I made an honest observation which was meant to help a friend realize that, well…he just wasn’t that into her. I was told that my blunt statement, although accurate, was not appreciated and by default I was labeled mean. I will never apologize for being blunt, sorry but I just won’t. I have been told more than once [okay maybe I have been told more times than I can count] that I tell it like it is and that I don’t sugar coat to spare another’s feelings. Granted this makes me sounds a bit insensitive, but I am now defined as the friend you go to for advice because I will tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear [and I am told this is appreciated (usually)]. Because I am a people pleaser I used to find this definition of myself a rather unflattering one; I wasn’t sure whether to be happy that people sought me out for my honest advice or if I should be upset because essentially I was being labeled a bitch [no matter how you slice it…]. I decided to shelf the latter and embrace the fact that I am blunt. I do not believe in lying to a friend merely to make them feel better. That being said, there are exceptions to every rule. I mean if you see your best friend’s ex-boyfriend dating a Victoria Secret model look-alike…you lie, and say she was ugly [that’s just the way it goes]. When it comes to those things we can change however, I am there for a reality check. If you ask me if you look fat in something, I will tell you. If you ask me whether I think he likes you [when he clearly doesn’t], I’m going to tell you to move on. If you complain about doing the same job for the same pay yadda yadda, I’m going to tell you to suck it up and make some changes. This blunt approach is not only evident in my words, but also in my facial expressions [which is why I am a great shopping buddy because if it’s ugly you’re going to know it]. Before you throw that horrible label [that literally means female dog] smack dab in the middle of my forehead, let me clear something up. I don’t go around spreading the blunt, unflattering truth to everyone. I know that there is a time and a place for my opinions. I have put my foot in my mouth more than I would like and now I know when to keep my mouth shut [and when not to]. I know that sometimes I need to tread lightly on particular topics, and with some friends there is always that ‘proceed with caution’ sign because they are a bit sensitive. Generally though, I think that honesty is always the best policy. What is my point of my lengthy [and at this point redundant] rant? Well, although I have learnt that being honest is a practice that not everyone appreciates, at the end of the day I will always be honest with my friends. If I’m not going to be, who is and vice versa. To that point, whether I have wanted to hear it or not, I have been put in my place quite a few times and once my bruised ego recovered I appreciated the frank nature in which I was dealt with. Whether or not you are a blunt person by nature [or by practice] you are not benefiting your friends by telling them what they want to hear. Your friends are your friends because you care for and respect them. Tell them the truth, even if you get called mean. I assure you that not only will they get over it, but they will also thank you later.

self-proclaimed loser

I have a problem, and I need help: I know that now. Please help me overcome my addiction without judgement while aiding me in the process of recovery.

I like Justin Beiber. There I said it.

I am over my denial and ready to take the first step in my recovery. At first I thought it was just a little problem. I had it under control, I could stop at anytime...until today when 'it' happened. The 'it' I refer to took place without a conscious effort and that is how I know it is out of my hands. That ever catchy tune came on the radio and before I knew what was happening the radio was cranked, my head was a bobbing and I was singing at the top of my lungs...
"And I was like
Baby, baby, baby ooh
Like Baby, baby, baby noo
Like Baby, baby, baby ohh
I thought you'd always be mine (mine)"
The worst part of the offence occured when I reached my destination, pulled into the parking lot, parked and waited until the song was over before I got out of the car...god help me.

hidden gem

Why do I love Toronto oh so very much? Because there are many different things to discover: it is a such a diverse city that nothing seems impossible. [ya ya ya I totally just ripped off Tourism Ontario] One of my most favourite discoveries has been Honest Ed’s at Bloor and Bathurst. I walked through the doors of this glorious hot spot approximately a year and a half ago, and I assure you my life has not been the same since. In a nutshell, Honest Ed’s is a department store with anything and everything you could ever imagine but at reasonable prices because yes, Ed is an honest man. The extended version as nutshelled as I can possible make it begins in 1948 when Ed Mirvish opened a discount store with the main belief that people should be able to buy what they need at reasonable prices, so he painted a sign over his store which read "NAME YOUR OWN PRICE! NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED!" (no joke my friends, that man was ca-ca-craazy). First he bought one store, but over the years [as he became financially able] he would buy another store to expand. Today the ever evoloving structure is a maze of stores within stores that span almost an entire city block. It is safe to say that you will get lost in Honest Ed's but my god will you find some amazing deals and you could even get a haircut if you're lost that long.

There are many different components to Honest Ed’s that make it so appealing to yours truly, however the main appeal for moi is the constant stimulus. Once inside the walls of this fantastic wonderland, you will find yourself constantly cocking your head in different directions because there is something going on everywhere, and quite frankly I find that impressive. I mean if a store can keep my attention for hours at a time that is like getting a monkey to dance (hmm just go with it). It seems as though there is not an inch of that place that doesn’t have something filling it; whether it be 77cent bras, old theatre posters, antique Asian headboards, cookies, hats, t-shirts, shovels, toasters, cat carriers, vacuums, dishes, toys, $5 shoes, live plants, shirt and tye combos for $5.99, a knock-off 'slap chop', a Canada keychain, and on and on and on: this store is everything you could possibly want and more. There is even a hair salon, a pharmacy and I do believe I saw a sign for an Immigration office. The entertainment value alone is enough for me, I mean I am guaranteed a good time every time I walk through those doors even if I don't buy a thing. Think of Wal Mart on steroids, with a shot of Giant Tiger and a side of BiWay plus dinner and a movie and you've got Honest Ed's. This place is most definitely a hidden gem in my books and I truly do hope that the doors to Honest Ed's stay open for another sixty two years plus. If I could grant you one wish it would be that you too have the pleasure of experiencing Honest Ed's for yourself because it truly is an adventure that can only be appreciated once experienced first hand. Best of luck with your shopping endeavours :) Dani's disclaimer: if you are not one that is generally amused by shiny objects, please prepare accordingly for your visit otherwise you run the risk of becoming overwhelmed by all there is to see.

the transition

One of the best parts about winter turning into spring is the wardrobe transition. I can appreciate that someone might think the above statement makes me sound a little like a ditz, but fashion is important in my life and a big part of my industry [sidenote: even though unemployed it's still my industry] The clothes for spring are endless. A lot of winter trends are making their way over; patterned tights, leggings, boots (light in colour, worn with shorts and skirts), the boyfriend blazer and cardigan etcetera. This my friends is great news for the wallet. And because it is not a fashion faux pas to wear a lot of our favourites into the spring, it is safe to assume that you might get bored. Ah ha...good news, one of the best ways to change-up any outfit [and transition it into a new season] is with accessories. If you know me, you know that I love my accessories so these are my must-haves for the spring transition: gladiator sandals, layered necklaces and miss-matched bangles. These accessories are easy to mix and match, cheap to add to your wardrobe and will assist in keeping you off of the 'boring train' choo-chooo.

Number one; gladiator sandals, newly named the Grecian. I most definitely have this in my wardrobe due to the fact that I am 5' 10" and this is a dressy alternative to the flip-flop. You can pair these with leggings, skirts, dresses and of course shorts [weather permitting of course]. I even wore a pair of gold gladiators, with a shift dress to a wedding last summer and it was definitely dressy enough. These sandals live on the shelves at Aldo, Urban Outfitters and Spring [to name a few], but if you're not ready to buy leather and make the financial commitment Ardenes offers options under $20. Number two; layered necklaces and chains. The key to this look is different lengths and different metals: I would even dare to throw in a beaded necklace or pearls. I would also suggest making sure that the shortest necklace isn't above your chest and that the longest necklace as a pendant of some sort. H&M offers unique choices that are generally under $10 or check-out Claires. Number three; mixed and layered bangles. I have always been a fan of bracelets; it is a good way to make an outfit unique and more times than not they become conversation pieces. I don't really think you can take a wrong turn on this one, you are your own brand so wear whatever makes you feel good. Most of my bracelets have come from markets or thrift shops but you can also find some really detailed bangles at Aldo Accessories $20-$40. No matter how you decide to transition your wardrobe from winter to spring remember be comfortable and confident.

the shape up

The relay has come and gone and there are many things that I have gained. I have gained new friends and experiences, but sadly I have also gained 15 pounds. The fact that I ate my way across the country, and figuratively speaking that is true, is nothing I regret. It seemed no matter where we were there was that local favourite that just needed me to eat it. Newfoundland offered me seafood chowder; Nova Scotia buttery lobster; PEI potatoes; New Brunswick and their tortiere; Quebec ma favourite POUTINE; Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, BC- you get the point! I really like food, my will power sucks and a busy, unpredictable eating schedule all assisted me in the extra bits of ‘me’ I am carrying around. I can’t wear lululemons forever and summer is coming so it’s time I got that will power in check and start doing something about it versus complaining and avoiding jeans. First things first, I have cut out chocolate. This step my friends is more difficult than you might imagine, I am a chocolate whore! On the relay there was no shortage of desserts; they graced me with their presence at almost every meal and, as previously stated, my will power sucks. Now that I am home there are mini eggs everywhere I look, I actually begged my mom to stop putting them out [which was even more difficult than you can imagine because my love for mini eggs is a love like no other]. But let’s be honest here, I think success for me would just be not as much chocolate, and I know where those mini eggs are hidden. My next step is to stop eating so much. When you put a buffet in front of a girl that loves food for 106 days straight chances are she will eat a little bit more than she needs to. I don’t really need to go into detail on this one, I ate like a glutton and now I need to get back to being me- case closed. Finally, step 3 is exercise, exercise and exercise. This is something that I used to enjoy, and oddly enough something that I used to do on a daily basis so I am going to reinstate this into my life- again case closed. I’m not really one of those girls to dwell so no need to continue, I am just happy that I have finally had enough and am ready to get back to normal.

mystery solved?

Growing up with a corn field behind your house meant that it was no surprise to see a mouse in your house, or a mole in the pool or even a wild turkey in your backyard once in awhile. Beachville is a little different than Toronto, a point that was proven once again on Saturday morning. I was watching a little Bugs Bunny and Tweety [you know you love it too] and above my head I heard a 'scurry'- I assumed it was a mouse and went back to my show. The little 'scurry' soon turned into a lot of 'scurries' and eventually a 'scuffle' was taking place above my head. In cases like this I did what all mature young adults would do, I went and got my mom. Marilyn is a trained professional in the art of country living and she told me it was a mouse, I told her to just wait and listen...she concluded it was not a mouse. Dave then emerged and pulled out the manly card about how he was going to catch this critter and kill it yadda yadda yadda. Hmm okay Dad [sidenote: I love my Dad but he is not exactly the type to hunt and definitely not the type to stomach a kill]. Blame the humanitarian in me but I do not like to see any animal hurt; it doesn't matter if it's a rat or an adorable puppy dog. I in fact once hit a bird while driving and I think it scarred me for life. Back to the story- Dave went to my Uncle's farm and borrowed a trap. I assure you that I inspected that trap and concluded that the mystery animal would not be hurt in anyway and would actually get a delicious treat of marshmallows if he or she decided to enter this trap. We set the trap, and waited...3 days later, I woke up to see a racoon in the trap. As predicted the racoon was not hurt, but he did look pretty scared- I just can't help but feel bad for animals sometimes. I have been assured that Mr.Racoon is being escorted to a forest somewhere and that he will live to see another day which makes me happy. My only concern now is who was he having the scuffle with above my head?

march 17th

Today is the day that I look forward to every March...St.Patrick's day. It is quite possibly one of my most favourite holidays, and yes in my books it is a holiday. I don't think there is anything that I don't enjoy about this glorious annual event. I like beer; that is a safe assumption and I like Irish beer which counts for double bonus points in my book. I like Irish pubs; some of my best times have occured in these fine establishments and I intend to have many more fun times within the walls of a pub. I like Irish stew; granted that I don't usually eat it on St.Patrick's day but I could if I wanted to which is another reason why I like this day. I like to wear green; it is part of my wardrobe on a regular day so St.Patrick's day gives me a good excuse to go overboard on one of my most favourite, and flattering I might add, colours in my closet. I like the spirit of today; people come together to be social and I do enjoy being social with happy people. My final reason why I like St.Patrick's day is because I like the Irish; they're fun, loud and like to sing...I like it when they sing. This is not only an entertaining component of St.Patrick's day but also one of the ways that I have made many a friends. Today in fact I am going to see one of my good friends [who is Irish and I met him in an Irish pub] sing Irish music in an Irish pub. I am sure that there are many more reasons why I enjoy celebrating my favourite March holiday but I think that is a good start. Wishing you and yours a Happy St.Patrick's day, cheers!

daily forecast

"Congratulations, Aries! You've finally reached a goal you've been working toward for a long time. Success and advancement are on their way, and you should be feeling extremely enthusiastic and optimistic about your future. Some vast changes may take place in your life, but they all promise to be positive...[myhoroscope.com]" That my friends is my horoscope for today. It is fair to say that reading my horoscope is not a daily practice. It's true that once in a while I will be a little bit curious, Google horoscopes and click on that firey ram to see what the day holds for me but I prefer to make my own destiny. With that being said, I can't help but laugh a little because I hope the prediction has a little bit of truth. I am not sure that I have accomplished a goal that I have been working towards, I mean how could I when my goal for the last 3 weeks has been to do 'nothing'...but I do like the part about success being on its way. Needless to say I am extremely optimistic about what my future is going to hold and I am ready to get it started.

baby steps

When I made the move to Toronto in September 2008 that was a big deal. Looking at it now it seems like only a baby step in my life and really not that epic at all. I remember thinking that I wasn't sure if I was going to make it, but I was too stubborn not to. I was scared, nervous, excited and overwhelmed by the big city and its diversity. That was then,and now I consider myself a Toronto girl. I had an interview for a job in Calgary this afternoon, and that same scared, overwhelmed feeling took over. I have been applying for jobs from Halifax to Vancouver, but did the notion ever cross my mind that I might actually move half way across the country? Umm no...that would be a big step, a very big step. Maybe I'm ready for a change, maybe I'm growing up and this could be the next baby step in my walk through life. I haven't been offered any jobs just yet but I hope that if I am that I'm ready to take the next step.

respect thy fashion

Spring has not yet sprung my friends; it is only March 11th and we do live in Canada. Today I witnessed many things, some of which confused me; I saw bare legs, gladiator sandals and even one puzzled fashionista wearing a sleeveless spring dress. I love spring, I really do but it is still winter and it is not appropriate to be breaking out the pasty white legs just because there is a bit of sunshine. It was warm today, agreed. I sat on a patio wearing only a boyfriend blazer but I still knew it was winter and I knew that as soon as the sun went down it would be cold once again. Winter offers us some wonderful fashion options and although I am excited to break out the floral patterns and short skirts we need to pay each season its due. Boots, pashminas and layers...do these things mean nothing? Most women love wearing black, brown and grey so what's with the rush for pastels? I too am eager for spring and all of the fashion options that it has to offer but for goodness sake, goose bumps are not a flattering accessory. I think if someone is happy, confident and comfortable then almost anything can be fashionable but please consult your thermometer before going outside because no fashion statement is worth getting a cold over.