It’s no secret I love films.
Any film that makes me think, feel deeply or reflect makes my list of forever favourites.

Here are the top five and why they make the cut.

About Time

This film has a one-two punch. First, you think you are watching a rom-com, to which you are. Next, you think you are watching some fantastical reality, to which you are, and last, you think you are watching an essay on how to stay mindful and appreciative in your life, to which you absolutely also are. It has perfectly delivered a reminder, laugh and warmth that we all need.

Stories We Tell

Albeit a documentary, this film gutted me and reshaped my reasons for why I write and why I seek to share stories. For me, it’s never been about hitting the zeitgeist or getting noticed, and it’s about trying to reach that compulsion to understand something in a more profound and more meaningful way. Sarah Polly is a beacon in storytelling work for this, and here is a perfect example of how telling stories has value on the inner and outward self.

Inside Out

This animation film shakes the ground on humanity. Pixar killed it and left me processing this for years, and I am still processing it. As I raise my own child, I have moments where scenes come back to me, reminding me when things are tender, unique or raw.

Now & Then

This film brings me back to one of the safest spaces I have ever been. Curled up with my cousin, watching this. It speaks to that age we were, the storm of confusion we were about to experience and what brings me back to this is the idea that we were intertwined then and found our way to be just as intertwined now. Every time I revisit it, it is nostalgic, bitter-sweet, and beautiful things to me.

Before Sunrise

I am late to this trilogy, but it has been another example of pure excellence in storytelling and writing. Many people in film stick their noses up at pages of dialogue. Still, Richard Linklater pushes the envelope open on real people in this project, and each of the three films tells us so much about real people, genuine relationships and real life.

For almost six years I have documented my seasonal wardrobes.

For one, I was starting from scratch postpartum after donating many of my previous clothes for either their irrelevancy to my new life as a mother and writer, their ill fit (ask any mama with a raised rib from the third trimester…that is a permanent deal) or plain ol’ wear and tear.

I enjoyed making mindful choices about what to add to my seasonal wear and found that living in Nova Scotia really did mean that a four-season wardrobe was necessary.

Now,

I have curated the foundations of what I can maintain, replace when needed and add where I want to.

These little summaries will now highlight the three main outfit additions to the season.
My main goal is to only focus on three areas of need (or want) per season. Keeping minimalism the focus and consumerism at bay, yet still allowing room for changes.

For this Winter:

Christmas Pyjamas | From Victoria Secret. They are loose, comfortable and in a pattern I love. (previous sets are showing age)

Aritzia Lounge Wear | I have long since oogled how comfortable the Aritzias Tna line is. Starting the New Year with this set has been a joy. Many rainy, snowy Scotian storm days in this set.

Queen of Heart T-Shirt | I wanted something pink and fun for February, yet didn’t have anything. Being a sucker for a graphic t, this queen of hearts t from Etsy fit the bill for me.

For the year 2022, I’ll be working on a personal project and series “Creative Field Notes”.

Using my personal reflections, creative inspirations and topics I find that is relevant I will be putting together content in a monthly format that aims to reflect that process.

I am not fully clear on how this will shape itself, but I believe that is the whole point.

I want to become closer to myself and those around me through my creative journey.
I want to document more.
I want to find out how this lives outside of myself

and

I want to stay attentive and mindful of the creative process as a whole.

Whatever else occurs while working on this, will surely be an on-the-ground and active discovery.

Onwards,

This year I am going to be picking reads that best suit where I am personally, and the month I am in.

I will also be picking books to read over each season for professional development, parenting insight, and book clubs.
Less of a haphazard stack and more of an intentional haul and study.
*Do not be surprised to see an Outlander read or re-read in the pile at any given moment.

For January this meant:

The Wisdom of Your Body | Hillary L. McBride PhD

This book was given to me for Christmas by a bestie who knows I love to deep dive into what happens with both the mind and body. How they work and how they affect each other. This is a fantastic read for that and so much more.

Grit | Angela Duckworth

I have heard Angela interviewed on podcasts various different times and each time I have thought I should pick up her book.
I confess, there were some sections I found myself skimming, but on the whole, I found it insightful and another reminder, that so much of ‘doing’ is about what is the true and raw why of what drives you ‘to do’.

Bright Young Dead (A Mitford Murder Mystery Series: Book 2) | Jessica Fellowes

Bright Young Dead did not disappoint. The era of the young in the 1920s is a fantastic landscape to produce a fun, thrilling and captivating murder mystery. Highly recommend. (I read book 1 last year).

TV Series / Films of Note

Good Girls S04 - For the fun, surprises, and comedic timing all in one series.
On the Basis of Sex - For the back story on our dear late RBG.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind - A winter love story that hits in the raw places with a bit of fantastical whimsy.

New Year.

New…

Newsletter.

I’ve resisted this ‘traditional’ approach to my work for a long time.

Yet there is something more intimate and connected about crafting a letter just for the ones who want to hear it.

Here is what this monthly drop into your inbox aims to be:

• a personal letter from me.

• creative notations/observations over the past month.

• Links to other creative’s/works that have caught my eye and why.

• quick links to any blogs/links that I have released.

• Anything up & coming that might be relevant.

I hope to keep this as personal and as minimal as possible.

For those of us who want to feel in a community together, this is my first step in 2022 to create that.

For opting in click on the image below to bring you to my home page where this image and sign up lives.

Carefully curating music to carry with me through out a season is a way I connect with my goals, intentions and overall mindset.

Here is a sampling of the songs that stick out to me the most in this Winter collection I have made:

For the full playlist:
check it out on Spotify

Rondo in F Minor for Piano and Orchestra | Nicholas Britell

If this track isn’t a moody vibe for work, I don’t know what is.

Unstoppable | Sia (feat. Pusha T, Oladum)

These lyrics rev me up. Simple as that. New Year, new anthems.

I AM WOMAN | Emmy Meli

I continue to have to come back to the truth that societal constructs of what being a woman is has been written on me that I am ‘one thing’. Being woman and being me is many many things. Women are called to inhabit their full selves. This anthem anchors me back into the space I am supposed to be.

AUATC | Bon Iver

Over the past two years within a pandemic and huge societal / cultural shifts, I continue to be burdened by the lack of understanding that we continue for the ‘others’. Using divisive language that separates us against them. This song reminds me of something I once heard : “Wherever you draw a line between us and them, you can be sure that Jesus is on the other side of that line.”

Godspeed | Paravi

Not the exact track, but close enough. This song says what I cannot.

Be Thou My Vision | Audrey Assad

There is usually a traditional hymn slipped into any of my seasonal playlists. Poetry in the highest sense. They anchor the season and remind me of what truly matters.

flow | flō | verb [no object ] 1 (of a fluid, gas, or electricity) move along or out steadily and continuously in a current or stream: from here the river flows north | ventilation channels keep the air flowing | a cross-current of electricity seemed to flow between them. • (of the sea or a tidal river) move toward the land; rise. Compare with ebb.2 [with adverbial of direction ] go from one place to another in a steady stream, typically in large numbers: the firm is hoping the orders will keep flowing in. • proceed or be produced smoothly, continuously, and effortlessly: talk flowed freely around the table. • (of clothing or hair) hang loosely in an easy and graceful manner: her red hair flowed over her shoulders. • be available in copious quantities: their talk and laughter grew louder as the excellent brandy flowed. • (flow from) result from; be caused by: there are certain advantages that may flow from that decision. 3 (of a solid) undergo a permanent change of shape under stress, without melting.

To live in ‘flow’ for the year 2021 has opened my eyes to what it means to honour my own values over not just a moment, but over a long period.

It’s easy to say our values, and it’s a lot harder to live them.

Over this year, I have written, produced and even ended long-standing projects and collaborations.

The process of ending long-standing projects and my own involvement in a handful of collaborations allowed me to truly understand what following ‘flow’ and its unique rhythm can do.

Authentic rhythm creates long-lasting and sustainable momentum.

We often think that it’s how much we are being seen, heard, and understood that makes us valuable in our lives and work, yet so much of what makes us valuable is the unseen moments.

That moment on the phone listening to a good friend share their burdens.
That moment of sitting at your desk despite tiredness and finding a reply in your inbox that makes you smile.
That moment of laughter at the end of the day over a silly observation in life.
That moment of knowing that what matters most is the two faces you wake up to in the morning.
That moment you pass a plate to someone who needs an excellent tasty something, and you get to rest in their enjoyment of being nourished.

So much of the world wants to tell us that we have to force it.

Ignore our feelings.
Fit in more hours.
Sleep less.
Hustle more.

But Flow says

You can move steadily along
From here to there.
There to here.
There is no one perfect shape.
But your shape.
No one perfect way.
But your unique way.
Not one particular pattern.
But the one you are still learning to make.

Living with Flow has given me the permission to move in a way that only I can.

In methodical, powerful and inspiring ways.

Onwards,

to 2022.

I made up for my lack of reading time this month.
Clearly.
I did not catch that I had documented ‘The Art of Gathering’ until I realized I captured it twice.
It’s a lovely cover nonetheless.

Shadow & Light | Tsh Oxenreider

Preparing for Christmas in a mindful way has always been important to me. This book celebrating Advent provides a reading for every day leading up to Christmas along with music and art suggestions for a true and meditative Christmas journey. Tsh also provides a few alternative ways to use this book. Be you traditional or in need of something to prompt you into the tradition of Christmas, this book has made our December evenings all the more meaningful.

The Nutcracker | E.T.A. Hoffman

I had forgotten that I had read The Nutcracker a handful of years back, but this book gives us as a family the ability to read aloud this beautiful story with all its magical and traditional Russian / German story.

All About Feelings | Felicity Brooks & Frankie Allen

This book has been in our home for a few years, but recently I re-read it and am so moved with how it was put together to give children the tools through language the nuances of feelings and how to identify with them.

At Home in Mitford | Jan Karon

Revisiting this book as a comfort read during Autumn and the heaviness that the pandemic has brought. I am enjoying living inside the town of Mitford and all its characters.

The Arrival | Shaun Tan

A surprising find of a graphic novel. No words, yet many illustrations fill the page to create a unique and moving story. I have a feeling that the interpretation and meaning behind the book is dependant on what the ‘reader’ brings to it.

Stories that Stick | Kindra Hall

Although this was an interesting and on-brand topic for me, I was left feeling like I could have had more. Understandably this was from the business perspective of how a story can elevate one’s business message and what one is selling.
This all seemed very primal and obvious to me. I am sure there are entrepreneurs and others in business who would find this enlightening.

The Art of Gathering | Priya Parker

Another slightly disappointing read. It could be due to hearing Priya Parker interviewed on various podcasts before I read her book. I resonated with what she had said in these interviews in regards to creating an atmosphere for gathering either virtual or in person.
It could also be due to the concept that this book was written pre-COVID-19, and thus, its message gets lost at times.

Clanlands | Sam Heughan & Graham McTavish

I wasn’t amazed by Sam and Grahams account on their journey through Scotland for their TV docu-series ‘Men in Kiltz’. I adored the series and did find a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes amusing, but I would say, the series is just as good, if not better. Looking forward to season 2. Always a fan of Scotland and those that are involved in creating Outlander.

FILMS/TV SERIES TO WATCH

Selling Sunset S02,03,04 - because other people’s drama is my kind of drama. & the houses !!!
Modern Love S02 - There should be more anthology series in the world. This has me crying with the sentiment.
Annie - Because this is the version of Annie I fell in love with and ADORE.
Succession S03 - Because media mogul families exist and there is something alluring about seeing how all this shakes out in the next generation.
Nine Perfect Strangers - A mysterious take on what healing can look like…in all its forms.

One of the main themes this season for me has been ‘comfort’.
Much of Autumn has been revisiting comforting stories and elements from my past.
Seems fitting since Autumn is the season of cozy, cuddles and candles.

Succession Theme

It will probably take many rounds of revisiting this piece before I feel as if I have mastered it. That being said, every time I pull it out I feel a bit more confident with it. Succession is a gritty and edgy series about a media mogul family. Its musical compositions that play underneath the drama are unparalleled. Nicholas Britell is a master at creating these high-end yet very questionable vibes.

Canon EOS RP

A second-hand camera we were using bit the dust and over the course of the months following I contemplated what it would mean to invest in a new one that better suited my documentary needs. When I was about to pull the trigger a colleague and friend instinctively pointed me towards the camera that I would not regret investing in. His intuition and quick research saved me more than just regret. I have so much to learn in film/videography, but at least now I am one less step away from whipping out a camera, pressing record and capturing a moment.

Okanagan Fall Candle Sampler

I love candles and am working to find my favourite Canadian soy brands, despite the costs. Getting this sample pack allows me to get all the scents, and learn which candle is worth my future investment once I’ve burned through the packs. Did I mention I love candles?

At Home in Mitford | Jan Karon

While going through various waves of the pandemic I have been reminded of previous comfort reads and watches. At Home in Mitford was first given to me by my grandmother as a late teen. I remember reading it, enjoying it, but not falling down the rabbit hole that this series can cause. Being reminded of its small town and soothing plot recently, I picked it up again and am enjoying a slow, calming re-read of it.

Gilmore Girls

Another comfort watch, which many know and love. Gilmore Girls is a timeless series with so much heart and soul. Womanhood, motherhood, daughterhood and community all wrapped up in a quirky, quote-filled town called ‘Stars Hallow’.

Top Centre - Clockwise: Blanket Grey Scarf | Chapters, At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon | JWD Bookstore, Heart of the Wolf Necklace | Pyrrha, Sweater Dress | La Vie En Rose, Tan/Brown Loungewear | Abercrombie & Fitch, Walking Boots | Sperry, Canon EO7 RP | Canon, Jeans | The Gap, Mixed Media Pleather Pants | RW&Co, Yoga Long Sleeve | LuluLemon, Yoga Pants | Aerie, Heartbeat Necklace | Gift from the bestie, Black, Brown and Burgundy Turtlenecks | RW&Co, Black Cami | H&M, Beige Cami | Ambercrombie & Fitch, Brown Turtleneck Oversized Knit Sweater | H&M, Butterfly Sweater | Winners

Autumn was a very full and busy few months. The back-to-school routine, preparation of Christmas, the celebration of Thanksgiving all have a way of creating those 'in the blink of an eye' moments.

The theme this month, seemed to be in replacing items that had broken down or were of low quality.

NEW TO ME

Cable Knit Sweater

I have always wanted a quality sweater that would last years. It's always bothered me how often the sweaters marketed to women are low quality that wears out within a year or two. Getting this sweater was a financial commitment, but I recognize it will last me a decade, if not longer.

Sperry Walking Boots

Not a purchase I was planning on making, but one that was necessary. These boots do the job of keeping my feet warm while walking through wet leaves and muddy places.

Canon Camera

Purchased for work, I hope to spend more time in the following seasons learning how to use this camera as an additive to my documentary filmmaking.

STILL GOING STRONG

Scarf

Purchased from Indigo years ago, this blanket scarf is a staple for me.

Mixed Media Faux Leather Pants

Love these. They pair perfectly with the majority of my capsule wardrobe.

Turtle Necks

Must have in the professional winter / autumnal wardrobe. When one finds a good turtleneck, buy more in varying shades.

TIME TO GO

Soft Moc Boots (*not pictured here)

It seems I forget to take pictures of the items which wear out and are on their way out the door into the garbage. A pair of walking autumnal boots that I used in autumn and winter met their end early this season. I didn't notice how bad they were until quite literally one boot fell apart in my hand. Upon close inspection, it was clear both boots were crumbling down with various splits and holes around the zippers and creases. They met with the garbage can after being deemed irreparable.

Tank Tops (*not pictured here)

Although I still have these, I am working towards replacing them. Over six years ago, I walked into Forever 21 (they have since left Halifax, Nova Scotia) and bought three tank tops of the same style and size. A black, white and tan, as something to wear underneath shirts.

They show their age, and although one may be good to keep for an option to pair with pyjama pants, the other two are beyond themselves. It's time to let them go and find a new set of tank tops.

TOP CENTRE - CLOCKWISE: Pink Hoodie | H&M, Pink Puffy Vest | Old Navy, Plates / Cups | Bamboo, Olaf Hoodie | Made with love by us for her, Lounge sweater | H&M, Long sleeves | Children’s Place, Old Navy, Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls | Chapters, Pink Flower Sweater | Carters, Black Sparkle Pants | Old Navy, Jeans | Old Navy, Journal | Chapters, Alarm Clock | Amazon, Sqooshable | Gift from a Great Auntie, Crew socks | Old Navy, Figure Skates | second hand, Skate Canada : Pre Can Skate Ribbon | Skate Club, Mittons

NEW TO HER

Olaf Sweater

For Halloween she wanted to be Olaf, so we found a way to make it happen with a Children’s Place Sweater. We love that she gets to have this to play around with in past Halloween.

Puffy Vest

Picked this up for her skating classes. It adds extra warmth while she is learning.

Hoodies

This girl is a fan of the zip hoodies. Only makes sense to start a new season with new hoodies that fit her growing arms.

STILL GOING STRONG

Figure Skates

Found second hand, these skates are keeping us solid until she grows into her next pair.

Long Sleeves

Various long sleeves (not pictured here.) have been lasting through this season with the knowledge that by the end of winter they will be grown out of.

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls

This book has so many beautiful one-page summaries of powerful, and empowering women. It will take a lot of time to work through it.

TIME TO GO

Pyjamas

Almost all of her pyjamas she has grown out of.

Jeans

These jeans are lovely, but she has grown right up and out of them.

Pants

In all of her pants, she has grown too tall for them, yet the next size up is too wide. It is tough trying t find a pair that fits.

Radicalized: Four Tales of Our Present Moment | Cory Doctorow

Lent to me from my aunt, this read is arresting, to say the least. My most favourite of the short stories being the first. Using elements of todays digital and progressive world we are given insight in a ‘Black Mirror’ type way to what future thinking may bring us. If you watched Black Mirror and found it thought provoking, than this is for you.

That Scatterbrain Booky | Bernice Thurman Hunter

I remember watching the television movies with fondness and thought to revisit this book seeing as my own daughter is becoming a reader. Although this is too mature for her age of six, I can see that as she grows as a reader I may want to show her this series. Booky is a precocious ten year old living in Ontario during the Depression. Booky is a wonderful three dimensional character.

Into the Woods | John Yorke

After almost a month studying under John Yorke through zoom classroom in various weeks during 2020 it was a no brainer to purchase his book to continue soaking in his perspective and methods in story structure.

Johns passion is what ultimately sold this to me. Listening to this man teach for weeks taught me the difference between someone who writes vs someone who fully writes.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

The Peanuts - for it’s absolute charm.

I adore lists.

I love making them. Reading them. Sorting them. Categorizing them.
I love the feeling one gets when one checkmark or crosses off an item.
I love the whole darn process of it all.

As if overnight, our resident six-year-old caught the bug.
Inspired by a frog & toad story about making lists.

It made me laugh since my first memory of list-making also came during grade one.

I remember it clearly.
Putting on my snow gear at the end of the day, waiting for the bell to ring. A girl in class was talking about how every day after school, she had many things she had to do and attend.
Ballet classes, Gaelic language classes, tap dance …you name it.
Something about how much that filled her time and days made me realize what I was looking for.

Variety. Organization. Fun.

I can see how our little is getting a kick out of coming up with her own expectations of herself and others and finding a way to incorporate it into her own ‘method of madness’.
I can also recognize this is a tool to find peace in the chaos of life.

A reminder for all we list lovers:

The lists don’t have to be 100% completed to be productive, successful and fun individuals.
They are tools
They are ideas
They are tasks
They are ways to remember things.
They can change.
Items can move around in importance.
And
They can be scrapped entirely.

If you are anything like me and find peace and joy in the list-making
Find a way to pass yourself grace when life is wild.
Wipe the slate clean off and on and see what items don’t make it onto the new lists.

Keep it light.
Keep it fun.
And most of all
Keep them for yourself.

Here is the playlist for Autumn 2021

Evidence | Josh Baldwin Dante Bowe

Early 2020 brought a hurricane of hardships, all of which I am still working to heal from. Placing the pandemic on top of these 'elements’ meant that I became numb to a lot of life, despite what it may have looked like. Dante Bowe’s voice cuts through so much of that feeling of being numb and has been a key to feeling the blessings that have all unfolded, because of, despite of and even so over the past two years.
This song has become an anchor.

Once Upon Another Time | Sara Bareilles

Sara’s songwriting will always be something I return to again and again. We can’t go back to who we were when we were younger or ‘before’ any one thing. But we can remember and harness that freedom. Something I attempt to do daily.

NDA | Billie Eilish

On a more edgy side of musicality and songwriting, Billie brings us one of the most impressive music videos of the day with NDA. With her new album she has found a very raw and edgy way to reveal the patriarchy and the havoc it can create. If you know anything about film production you will instantly see what type of guts, drive and dedication this woman has to her craft.

*Billie shared footage of BTS to show that yes, these were real cars that were speeding past her. A blocking and production feat.

Catherine House | Elisabeth Thomas

This book fed my need for a ‘ boarding school’ themed read. A fascination I have had since childhood. Catherine House poses mysteries, darkness, and implies a lot with not all of it being made clear. For me, the enjoyment in this read was in the atmosphere, theme and descriptions.

The Paris Library | Janet Skeslien Charles

I was not as impressed with this book, but I do not think that is a true reflection on how good it may or may not be. I think I have had my fill of World War I & II themes. Following a woman who is passionate about books, the library she works at, and protecting the patrons that borrows them we get a unique birds eye view of what staying in France during the war may have been like.

Winnie the Pooh | A.A. Milne

Read aloud to our daughter over the past few months we laughed and laughed over each chapter. As a writer I have a deeper appreciation for the beautiful character and world building in this sweet little novel. If you have not read A.A Milne, I urge you, the experience will not disappoint.
I may have cried while reading the last few pages.

FILMS / TV SERIES OF NOTE

The Good Place S01 - Rewatched because the plot twists and true depths are solid gold.
A Simple Favour - because the film stayed with me longer than the book & it’s the perfect mystery watch featuring fabulous women.
Physical - Apple TV has some home runs. Highlighting a woman struggling with eating disorders and finding something that is more healing than her disorder.
The Great Canadian Baking Show S03 - because watching this as a family brings us so much joy…& hungry bellies.

After two long years of a pandemic, it was a relief to stand alongside a woman who has known me for over a decade. These past two years have been chock-full of changes and situations that have thrown us all for a loop.

Being that we share a love of food and wine, a visit to wine country in Nova Scotia together seemed fitting. We packed our sweaters, music and all the topics we had not yet talked about and set off for a two-day adventure.

Walking along the rows of vines of one vineyard, I couldn’t help thinking about how deep friendships, despite weather and circumstances, are much like the grapes grown for wine. They take in the life, events and atmosphere of the world around them.

Over the years, I have learned and understood that grapes are highly affected by weather, nature, and the specific location they are grown. The wine made from the grapes is often characterized by the place the grapes are grown and how they are treated.

So too are these friendships that have been given beautiful and redemptive space to breathe.

Friendships can display a unique character and quality from the atmospheres they have grown into and out of. And as wine gets better with age, so too, in my opinion, does dear friends.

Although we only visited two vineyards, we got our fill of the beauty and tastes of our province, conversation and time to exist beside each other.

And despite the fact that currently, ours is a friendship of long distance, the idea that we will continue to reflect the character of our environments, experiences, passions of ourselves while also becoming something better, bolder, and of more fullness is something that gives me deep appreciation, excitement and thrill for what has yet to come.

‘a feared & misunderstood creature of high intelligence, fierce loyalty and deep compassion’.

Not one for jewelry unless it carries meaning.

so many reasons for this necklace but the main one?
I’m claiming new territory in my life & it takes every ounce of energy to remember that this territory is already mine.

I have the stories.
I have the words.
I have the fierce wisdom.
I have the compassionate discernment.

Onwards I go.

The Soulmate Equation | Christina Lauren

A fun lighthearted vacation rom-com speed read of an owner of a dating app and a woman in her thirties trying hard not to look for love. It’s exactly what you think with a hint of something ‘sci fi’.

Dear Ijeawele, Or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions | Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

It’s a small but impactful read that blew me away. Originally I picked it up from the library, but I will be buying this to re-read over the years while raising my daughter.

Seven Stones to Stand or Fall | Diana Gabaldon

A collection of Diana’s filler ‘buldges’ as she refers to them of various characters from the outlander series.

All Along You Were Blooming | Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper is one of my most favorite writers today. She has found a creative way to use words and imagery to heal herself, others, and anyone that comes across her work.

Burnout. The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle | Emily Nagoski & Amelia Nagoski

This book blew my mind in so many ways. I first heard these sisters in an interview and was rocked by their work behind laying out the hormonal release that occurs in the body during stress. Their explanation of stress and how it manifests was in direct correlation with my personal experiences. I knew I had to read this book. After returning it to the library I still felt that I hadn’t had enough time with it. I will definitely be picking up a copy for my own future reference.

TV Series / Films of Note

Gilmore Girls S01 - Because when the air turns crisp, it’s time for coffee and the Gilmores.
Good on Paper - Because Iliza tells this story off and on, and it’s even wilder to take in as a film.
Ted Lasso S02 - Because Ted is everything good, healing, and warm that this world lacks, with a healthy dose of real trauma shown amidst the smiles.

Impala Pastel Fade Roller Skates | Zumiez

Considering my love for Figure Skating, I’m not sure why it took me this long to pick up roller skating. Albeit there is a learning curve to skating on wheels verses a blade, I am absolutely loving the challenge and getting such a joy out of these beautiful skates. During the pandemic I have missed skating on ice, which I am hoping to do more of this autumn/winter season, but knowing that I have a pair of rollers I can practice with during the winter months in my basement is giving me so much joy.

White Point Beach Resort Mug | White Point Beach Resort

After celebrating our first honeymoon, baby moon, reunion after time apart, our 10th anniversary and booking yet another family at this resort it only made sense that we would bring home mugs to remind ourselves at our desks of the moments we continue to share as a family at this beautiful place. We are head over heels for the days we spend at this place.

Lover Sweater | Poppy & Olive

I walked by this sweater on the outside sale rack and my heart instantly leapt. I rarely make impulse purchases, but when I do, it’s because something spoke to every part of me. This sweater sums me up in a nut shell.

Heart of the Wolf Necklace | Pyrrha

This beautiful necklace came into my awareness through a best friend who has come to know my ins and outs sometimes even better than myself. I had been eyeing her necklaces for months wondering about them and their meaning. A simple shy question turned into a huge deep dive into the Pyrrha website and finding one that was symbolic to me. Heart of the Wolf is symbolic of all that has been misunderstood about my own intelligence over the years and how much I have stepped into my own confidence of who I am and that my own strength does not mean I loose any part of my deep compassion and tenderness for those around me. I love that Pyrrha is a sustainable Canadian company and that their foundations is that from collective inspiration.

Malibu Rising | Taylor Jenkins Reid

Every summer an avid reader generally hopes to land a good ‘summer/beach read’. Malibu Rising delievers in every single way.
I thoroughly enjoy the descriptions of this novel along with the generational stories that get developed.

Centre - Clockwise: Elephant | Ikea, Snooze pyjamas | Joe Fresh, Explore Magazines | Kiwi Co, Sneakers | Softmoc, Blue Dress | Old Navy, Strawberry Dress | Second Hand find from Auntie Nicole, Brave sweater | H&M, Jean Shorts | Old Navy, Wild - T Shirt | Joe Fresh, Rainy Day Activity Book | Chapters, Colored Pencils | From various family members over the years, Bunny Sharperner | Easter Gift from Mimi, Eloise | Chapters, SwimSuit | H&M, Sandals | Joe Fresh

Having a slower start to the summer due to the whip lash from the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, it meant as a family we were still catching up with delayed spring celebrations and appointments during July. Yet, once August hit, not only was the weather full of sunshine, but also full of beautiful summer moments.

NEW TO HER

Elephant

On a whim when at IKEA without her in tow, we picked up this elephant and it absolutely made her day. We try our best not to clutter her life with toys that will become meaningless and opt to give her things through out the year she will need and keep the fun new toys for birthdays etc. But we are not above a rare whim purchase to surprise her with. Carefully placed on her bed to greet her when she arrived back home, this IKEA elephant was instantly named “Jhombo” and has become a staple in all of our lives.

Blue Dress

Purchased for a family photo shoot, this blue dress from Old Navy is the perfect staple for a young girl who loves dresses.

Sandals

Growing like a weed we opted to pick up a less expensive pair of sandals from Joe Fresh for her summer. They are practical, glittery and don’t break the bank.

STILL GOING STRONG

Brave Sweater

This sweater was a great addition to her wardrobe and is the perfect warmth for cool days, yet also just as loose fitting and easy for warm days that start off chilly.

WILD Graphic T

Various Graphic T’s. Pictured here is one graphic t, but there are a handful (about 4) others that are standing strong, still in good shape and still fitting. (I assume they didn’t make it in this pic because they were in the wash rotation.)

TIME TO GO

Swim Suit

The swim suit pictured here had its unfortunate last few wears over the summer. It’s in great shape, but our little spirit is growing like a weed. Time for a new one.

Various Socks

Not pictured here are the multitude of socks that got worn out, out grown or just lost in the mayhem over the last season. Seen here are the replacements for what was a very dwindling sock collection.