We have had many weekends of snow and ice in Nova Scotia. As the days turn more to rain and wind, preparing for spring, I am so thankful for a home to be, for the small things to enjoy and the family we have and make with those around us.

Glossier Boy Brow & Brow Flick

Boy brow was introduced to me on my thirtieth birthday by a bestie. I find Glossier products simple and a less is more vibe which I love for my beauty routines.

Acrylic Photo Blocks

Gifted to me by my cousin, these two photos mean everything to me. I love having photos around, yet find the framing process taxing. These are a great way to showcase photos without the fanfare of trying to hang and frame.

The Little Book of Joy | Joanne Ruelos Diaz

We gifted this book to our daughter for Christmas as something we could all share as a family. Right now it lives on our dining room table where we can pick it up at any time and see the prompt for the day. The illustrations are sweet and joyful.

Rock

Found on a winter beach walk. I love the two tones of this one.

Atlas of the Heart | Brené Brown

Working through this book slowly alongside my aunt. Every month we schedule a chat about the latest chapter, how we feel about the unique concepts and emotions discussed within the pages and how we relate to them.

365 Block Calendar | Hobbry

I limit my amount of paper consumption as much as possible. Being a writer since I was a young child I have been gifted a lot of journals and wasted a lot of paper over the years. Now, I have more of a solid structure. I buy one type of pen for writing only, two types of journals for each year and about two other specific types of paper notebooks/pads. That way, although I may be tempted to buy the latest and cutest journal, I won’t.

Yet, there was something about this calendar block that spoke to me and thus far I have found it very helpful.
It’s a place I can put the very important daily to-dos/outcomes and know that despite my long list in my bullet journal, or the emails coming in, there on that pad are the most important things for the day.

Winter Candle Sample Pack | Okanagon Candle Co

Very happy to have experienced the winter sample pack. I love having these small candles about to light when desired. A little pick me up during the cold months.

Episode 2 - Reflections on the weight of trauma and what it means to give space for others and the situations we are unaware of.

Creative Field Notes is a series that studies the way creativity weaves itself throughout and communicates with all aspects of the natural rhythms of life.

*a note:

Throughout February, I became more heavily burdened for the words we use to communicate our own perspectives.
Watching posts on social media become more and more volatile and disrespectful.
It is damaging when we create outrage on the internet yet miss the ones beside us who are suffering.

We ‘other’ others without hesitation. We insert sarcastic emojis, gifs and snippets of news clips to demand our point and our outrage to be seen.

Yet,

We have become increasingly numb to the trauma and wounds of others.

Seeing the trees around us bear the weight of the winter ice and winds reminded us how much we are all carrying.
And by we, I mean…
The ‘we’ of humanity. ‘We’ the breathing. ‘We’ the me and ‘we’ the you.
’We’ the ‘every’ side.

May we collectively remember, especially now, what it means to support those who are suffering, to be the place they can recover and find strength and not the place they struggle to survive and begin to break under the weight of our own words and actions.

Women and their words became the threads that made up the blanket of February.

The Measure of My Powers | Jackie Kai Ellis

I read this book a handful of years ago and finally have my own copy to reread. It's not often that a person's life story can be the serving of healing you need, but in this beautiful memoir, I was served again and again a warm, comforting hug in the form of words. Jackie provides her reflections through memories, recipes and vulnerable meditative prose.

Verity | Colleen Hoover

My first time reading a Colleen Hoover novel, I was hooked within the first handful of pages. You believe it will go one way and are given multiple twists to find it going in various other directions. If you want a rapid read with a psychological / mystery bent, this is it!

I added every title from this author to Goodreads, if that's a hint at how much I loved it.

The First Shot | Liv Constantine

The prequel to The Last Mrs.Parish, this small but mighty novella by the sisters that make the name Liv Constantine is everything I hoped for. They made it on my list of favourite authors out of the gate; here is another example of why.

Home Body | Rupi Kaur

Rupi and her thoughtful poems are more than excellent for the mind, body and soul. Take them in. Let them sit beside you and swirl into the air as you breathe.

Films/TV Series of Note

Being the Ricardos | Interesting. I did not love its entirety, but I found its mid-point and onwards very interesting.
The Marvellous Mrs.Maisel S04 | Because Midge has words for what needs to be said and finds the guts to say it.
The Gilded Age S01 | Albeit a tad repetitive in characters mirroring Downton Abby, still very much enjoyable.

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.

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.

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.

I adore the way Autumn arrives in Nova Scotia.

It is not an abrupt overnight happening but a slow and mindful appearance. A leaf here, a leaf there. Nights that end just a titch cooler than before, until….the evening's air kiss assures you that sweaters and thick blankets must be pulled out again.

The sun looks different in Autumn. It has a more warm gold hue when it dances on the walls. It doesn't burn, but it reminds you that it's still here. Still shining, despite the darkness that is creating shorter days.

With the arrival of Autumn and the 'back to school routine, I am rejoicing.

It means a recentering of my mind and spirit into work that I have been digging into.

Yes, there are the distractions of both good and practical things.

Friends visiting, approaching thanksgiving, and the Christmas season. Not to mention Halloween, extracurricular classes for the little, a pandemic to watch, and home projects before the winter months.

But there is also open space.

If I allow it.

Protect it.

Space to develop my filmmaking skills on a personal level with a new camera. Freedom to collaborate with a corporation I have been loving working with. Space to spin tales in the dark evenings, reflect on the year on weekend walks. Space to putter around the house while putting to order the project decisions I am being faced with.

The space is there.

But, it's genuinely, honestly, and quite realistically up to me to protect it.

There will always be someone who lays an expectation down at your feet. A circumstance to attend to, a phone call to answer, a text to reply, day to schedule, medical appointment to show up to, a chore to complete.

And the beautiful and often anxious-inducing truth is that you get to take a deep breath and decide what needs to get attended to and what is not going to serve you in the things you have to show up for.

This is an exercise in trust that there is just enough time for the things you are called for today. And for what you need to let go of in the process...there is grace for that too.

Touch the ground in the business of Autumn and say “There there, there is space and grace for you to do what you are called for in this season.”

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.

Top Centre - Clockwise: Striped Dress | Banana Republic, Lover Sweater | Poppy & Olive, Loose stripped T-Shirt | The Gap, Blue Bikini | La Vie En Rose, Grey Romper | RW&Co, Starfish Keds | Softmoc, Coral T-Shirt Sweater | The Gap, Brown Purse | Modcloth, Malibu Rising | Chapters, Tkees Flip Flops | The Bay, Jean Shorts | The Gap, Pink / Cream Camis | Ambercrombie & Fitch, Perscription Sunglasses | All About Eyeware, Bridgerton | Amazon

Although this summer started out slow for us after a third lockdown pushing various spring events, our August was everything we needed it to be. Having time for a family vacation, celebrating 10 years married along with friends visiting and beach days, we are alight with what that rest that sank into our bones.

New to Me

Lover Sweater

This sweater is extremely thick, high quality and just altogether beautiful. I have always loved the word ‘lover’. I think it captures something I hold deeply inside myself and it has a way of propelling me forward.

Bikini Swimsuit

After 6 years of beach and pool days my tankini swimsuit bit the dust this summer and I was forced to do the dreaded task of finding another suit that I would like. I loved how my other set hugged my body in all the right spots. This Bikini gives me the coverage I want while also adding more style to my summers.

Flip Flops

I have been in desperate need of a pair of flipflops and was thankful for my moms birthday gift in these.

Coral Sweater T-Shirt

I am a bit lacking in clear ‘shirt’ options for the summer outings and this coral sweater t-shirt adds a fun option for beach days, or just around the house on a cool summer morning.

Still Going Strong

Blue/White Striped Dress

This stunning dress keeps giving me life. It feels like it captures all of me.

Starfish Keds

This pair has that worn appearance yet still holding shape.

Purse

I adore this purse I invested in a couple years ago. It is easy to bring on shopping days or just out and about on the weekends.

Time to Go

Jean Shorts

Not pictured here is a pair of jean shorts I bought and used exclusively as my ‘jean shorts’ for the summers. They were quite honestly falling apart. Off they go.

Blue Second Hand tank

Not pictured here is a second hand tank top I have been wearing for 4-5 years in summer and autumn months. It was never 100% me, but it did the trick when doing life with a toddler in tow. I am not wearing it anymore, so it’s time to donate it. Someone will appreciate it more than I am right now.

Pothos

As we wait for our music / reading room couch to arrive I thought a new plant for the bookshelf would be a great idea. After research, I thought we’d start with a Pothos. So far, so good.

Spring Soy Candles

I sprung for the Spring set from Okanagan Candle Co. I have been sad to wait for my favourite local soy candle maker to start production again, but supporting another Canadian business, despite the distance seemed like a smart idea. I love that this pack lets you try all the candles to decide which one is your favourite.

Secret Garden

A secret, yet not so secret if you know me well, is that I ADORE a good Korean Drama. No matter how kitchy they can be, there is something so sweet and lovely about sinking into a limited series that attempts to embrace the ‘love story’ concept in the format of a KD. This series remains the best I have ever watched. Originally I watched this in 2011 and this would be my third rewatch of the series.

Origins Toner

I finally have landed on a toner that fits my skin type and current needs.

The Ordinary Cleanser

A gift on my birthday, and let’s just say “I see the light” in regards to ‘The Ordinary’.

String of Pearls

A pick up from Bloom on a whim. Another lovely music / reading room additive.

On Grief and Grieving

A book I am studying for a project.

Checks and Balances Exfoliant

Another back to the basics product that I am highly in love with. Simple is best with me.

Top Centre - Clockwise : Canadian Currency Tray | Amazon, Jewlery Box | Birthday Gift from Auntie Nicole, Lounge Set | H&M, Kiwi Co Crate Puppet | Kiwi Co Box from Tai Ma, Rainbow Ribbon | Gift from Auntie Heidi, Sketcher Sneakers | Soft Moc, Pyjamas | Gift from Mimi & Yeye, Disney T’s | H&M, Yellow Dress | Zara, Brave Hoodie | H&M, Star Pants | Gift from Mimi & Yeye, Heart patch Jeans | Old Navy, Short Overalls | Old Navy, Winnie the Pooh | Chapters, Welcome to Pawston! | Chapters, Bike Helmet | Canadian Tire, Readers | Chapters

Spring is always an exciting season for us as parents and for our little, as a birthday marks the beginning of a new year in her life. Turning six feels big to us. In truth, every age thus far has brought major milestones. This year her main birthday gift was a blue bike. Complete with a bell and no training wheels. A huge step for her, since due to various life circumstances she hadn’t had a bike since her pink tricycle.
That along with various other milestones we have had and eventful spring, to say the least.

New to Her

Yellow Dress

A beautiful dress from Zara for her 6th Birthday. A little family tradition. Every birthday deserves a new dress.

Brave Hoodie

Although she takes forever to get used to new clothes, especially anything that is outer / extra layers, she took to this new hoodie eventually and it has become her favourite. I wish I had one for myself to be honest.

Sketcher Sneakers

Although she was voting for the light-up sneakers, we needed to put money aside for her bike and stuck with the non light up pair. We will meet that desire on the next go around, which will probably be sooner than later. She’s growing like a weed.

Still Going Strong

Readers

Although she has had readers in level 1 and level 2 for awhile, adding new ones to her collection is making her a ravenous reader. No complaints about that.

Disney T’s

Graphic T’s that have a sweet nostalgic quality to them are my fav. I love it how these haven’t worn with weekly washes.

Star Pants

Thankfully these have been a great fit during Winter and Spring. She is a weed these days.

Time to Go

Pyjamas

Over the Spring she has actively grown out of her sleep-ware. Very doubtful any of these warmer pairs will fit come Autumn.

Various shirts / pants

Not pictured here are various pants and shirts we have had to pass along due to her growing arms and legs.

Top Centre - Clockwise: Graphic T Femme | Dynamite, Graphic T Music Notes | Mod Cloth, Cream Scarf | Indigo, Romper | RW&Co, Origins Exfoliant | Sephora, Origins Toner | Sephora, Monarch Butterfly Sweater | Winners, Loose Black Pants | RW&Co, Karl Lagerfeld Flats | The Bay, Pleather Pants | Zara, Drums of Autumn by Diana Gabaldon | Indigo, Girlfriend Jeans | The Gap, Black Cami | H&M, Long Sleeve Shirt | RW&Co, Oversized White Button Shirt | Aritzia, Ordinary Face cleanser | The Ordinary, Ordinary PM Toner | The Ordinary, Cream Oversized Hoodie | Aerie, Tan Turtleneck | RW&Co

Spring saw us in Nova Scotia in the third wave of the COVID pandemic.

This being the hardest wave we have seen yet due to variants. For the first time we were parents of an ‘at home learning’ child and had to navigate our own careers alongside her education.

Thankfully, our Province is opening back up as case numbers drop and the number of vaccinated people go up.

This has meant a more curated approach to my spring capsule this year. More ‘at home working’ outfits and weekend cozy vibes.

New To Me

White / Grey Romper

I adore this romper. Relaxed, light and playful, it adds a lot to my spring / summer capsule.

Beige Hoodie

Although the softest fabric inside and out, this hoodie began buzzing after the first wear. It does not hold up well to look the way it was marketed as from the get go. It does however remain in tact and as warm and as cozy soft as ever. Unfortunately I wouldn’t suggest this for anyone due to it’s lack of ability to hold it’s smooth appearance.

Taupe Long Sleeve

A purchase early spring that was to help with my lack of long sleeves that are not ‘turtle necks’. It is a season fav.

White Oversized Button Shirt

I hunted all Spring for this and am not disappointed with this expensive purchase. The material is high quality, it’s loose yet shapely at the same time. I expect this to be in my wardrobe until it’s threadbare.

Still Going Strong

Tan Turtle Neck

Great for those early spring days in March when a turtle neck is still the best option.

Butterfly Sweater

Though not the most expensive sweater find with the highest quality, the graphic decal is holding up well after multiple washes and it symbolizes a change in my mindset that began during the pandemic. Always a sucker for symbolic capsule items.

Girlfriend Jeans

They do the job. No complaints.

Time to Go

Grey Bridesmaids Dress

Purchased for the besties Wedding in 2017, this dress has seen a handful of wears. I am feeling that it is time to put this baby up for sale. (Not pictured here.)

Ankle Socks

About every pair of my ankle socks had holes in them by mid spring. I ordered another batch of under armer ankle socks to replace them.

Spring has arrived and it has teased us with sprinkles of snow before settling into the purely Nova Scotian winds and rains that we are all used to.

The overlap of winter and spring.

With a new season,

a new playlist.

Highlights from the list:

Everyday People - Sly & The Family Stone

I first heard this song sung by Nicole C. Mullen and have always found a certain amount of joy, revelation, inspiration and insight in it. A song that seems to resurface over and over again through the generations.

It’s You I like - Fred Rogers

This song is a comfort. As a family we have been sinking into Fred Rogers words since the early days of the pandemic. There is a deeper message in his songs and episodes that translates even to the youngest of hearts. His songs make me a better person, parent and better to even my inner self.

Manhattanite - Frook

Gives that pep to my step. I have loved hearing it when starting a drive or my day.

I Know Things Now - Lilla Crawford

I wasn’t aware of Into the Woods as a musical until my early twenties. The entirety to of it speaks to me deeply. In part, because I think we all can relate to being in a season of confusion at one point in our lives or another. The awareness this character sings about although from a child’s perspective is a beautiful window into what it means to become self-aware and the revelation it can bring.

Light is different in the spring.

It washes over us like an antiseptic.

Clean.

Simple.

Warm.

I have been working on projects and reflecting along the way during the winter months.

this Spring there is a a tangible force I can’t deny.

It comes in the concept something like this:

Give the light space to breathe.

We are so busy trying to package up our thoughts, arguments, perspectives, projects and insights that we so often miss that beautiful moment that happens when we have allowed space.

What if, in our conversations, our work, our existing in the hard and the easy that we allow it all to be washed in sunlight?
We step back and breathe and see what happens in the silence of it all?

Whimsy? Abstract? A bit “What-the-heck-does-that-even-mean?”

Yes.
And,
It means something like,

Shedding our critique, holding our rebutle, caring for the why behind a project more than the “show” of it, standing still when questions are formed…

It means that we might see things and feel things differently in the light of it all, rather than only see it shaped in the corners of our minds.

If this was easy, there would be no writing about it.

Yet,

As I work and play this Spring I will be working to make space for the light to breathe.

Winter was a season of a lot of sinking into the moments. Taking time to rest on snow days, working hard at the desk on paper work and pitches and staying connected with loved ones.

Air Pods | Apple

I was beyond thrilled to be given these from Jeremy for Christmas. If you know me, you would know that the amount of time I spend attached to headphones is a bit ludacris. Zoom meetings, researching, writing, working with background music, listening to podcasts as I do chores (not all appropriate to have on while a little is present), talking to friends and family while I fold laundry or whatever… headphones are a thing for me.
Needless to say…I use these at minimum 3 hours per day. At most, 6-7 hours.
Worth it.

Cozy Love Candle | Blooming Studio

I do my best to buy soy candles with safe products in them. This Etsy store was a great find and I have a small amount left I will be able to burn next winter.

Word Magnets | Indigo

I couldn’t find it on there website, but years ago I found a box at Indigo of magnetic poetry and recently found another set that was focused on more wellness inspiring words. Putting my old set and new set together I have found a renewed love for using words on my fridge.
I’m sure my friends and family are rolling their eyes heavenward at this quirk of mine. I adore this small but meaningful habit.

Lotus Youth Preserve Dream Face Cream | Fresh / Sephora

A pricy night cream. The one thing I will say…I ADORE the smell and I am a huge fan of ‘fresh’ as a company.

Sail Necklace | Dana Grund

A Christmas gift From Jeremy and our five year old. This necklace is a tribute to our first home. Where we could hear the sail boats make ‘ting ting ting’ sounds in the wind.

Cement planter with Evergreen branches | Winners

A small find this winter at Winners. I am not one for an overly decorated home. But I do love bringing a seasonal nature atmosphere into the home. These little cement planters encompassed that for us.

The Home Edit Life | Indigo

A Christmas gift from the ‘sis in law’. She knows my weaknesses.

Top Centre - Clockwise : Blue Long Sleeve | Second hand find from Auntie Nicole, Crayons | source unknown, Robe | Winners, Reading socks | Indigo, Good Night Rebel Girls Book 1&2 | Indigo, Pyjamas | Gift from Mimi & Yeye, Calico Critters | Christmas / Birthday gifts from family, Roots Joggers | Roots, Jeans | Old Navy, Baby doll | MiniKane , Pink Dress | Second hand find from Auntie Nicole, School Books | Various family members, Ready Set Draw Activity | Auntie Jasmine & Uncle Tyler, Long Sleeves | Old Navy, The Compete Baking Books for Young Chefs | Indigo, Beads | Christmas Gift from Mimi & Yeye, Christmas Doll Dress | Handmade from Auntie Nicole

This season we have found that our growing girl is all about re-wearing her favourites to till they are thread bare. Many of the new purchases to fill out her wardrobe never got touched as she would rather wear her ‘favourites’.

New to Her

Cloud Pyjamas

A Christmas gift from her Mimi & Yeye, these pyjamas fit perfectly and are the sweetest things on her.

Jade Minikane Doll

With the help of her dear Auntie Nicole we were able to get this new baby doll in time for Christmas. To say it was her favourite gift is an understatement. She was in awe of this lifelike baby and she cares for it so tenderly. A purchase we will never regret.

Reading / Cozy Socks

Worn through a pair she received from a ‘great aunt’ two years back, she begged for replacements.

Still Going Strong

Roots Joggers

Although they are becoming shorter on her, these joggers are long lasting and her favourites. We will definitely replace when she has outgrown them.

White Robe

This beautiful robe is becoming smaller and smaller on her but she loves it so much. We love seeing the joy she gets from it.

Time to Go

What needs to go she’s been ‘over wearing’. It’s almost comical how hard it is to get her to wear anything else. A few items are not seen here as they were either on her body when this picture was taken, or in the wash. (yoga pants, shirt, pink and grey zip sweater)

What isn’t shown here:

Pink Zip Sweater, Old pair of Reading socks, Pants outgrown, Pyjamas outgrown

Top Centre - Clockwise : Soyia & Kyo Winter Jacket | The Bay, Christmas Pyjamas | Suzy Shier, Cozy Love Soy Candle | Blooming Studio TO, Yoga Shirt | Lulu Lemon, Yoga Pants | Aerie, Bye Bye Under Eye Brightening Cream - It Cosmetics | Sephora, Lotus Anti-Aging Moisturizer - Fresh | Sephora, Pleather Pants | RW&Co, Burgundy, Beige, Black Turtle Necks | RW & Co, Skinny Jeans | The Gap, Resilence Fragrance | Bailly, Henley Shirt | Aerie, Star Sweater | Aerie, Joggers | Roots, Sails Necklace | Dana Grund, Rose Gold Watch | Fossil, Brown Button Sweater | The Gap, Voyager - Diana Gaboldon | Chapters, Oversized Beige Sweater | H&M.

Kicking into a new year, new work projects and a new routine made me realize that although I have comfort in working from home during the pandemic, I do miss pulling out more of my ‘eventing’ clothes. It’s clearly reflected here that my main focus is comfort, with a professional flare.

New To Me

SOYIA & KYO Jacket

This purchase took me over five years to make. During pregnancy in the fall/winter 2014/2015 I broke the zipper of my winter jacket to a point where it didn’t make financial sense to try to fix it. Since then I have been able to get by with older jackets and more than a year ago I purchased a nice wool jacket with a good hood. That being said, one cannot wear a wool jacket while playing in the snow without causing it damage. This year I bit the bullet and purchased this hefty jacket which will hopefully last me decades.
So far, it’s living up to my expectations.

LuLu Lemon Long Sleeve

For the longest time I have wanted an exercise top with long sleeves. I often go elsewhere for workout clothes, but upon much research this top came one of th highest recommended. I love it. Again, another pricey purchase I am hoping will last me many years.

Brown Knit Button Sweater

I have a confession to make. I convinced Jeremy to buy this. He isn’t one to spend time thinking about what he needs. I usually do this for him as I get tired of him putting himself last. But the real sneaky side of me, has to admit, that as women, we all know that mens sweaters are the best, and I may be wearing this more than he is at this point. I will take it off the moment he turns around and it’s obvious he wants it for the day… but, I grew up watching my mom walk around the house in my dads sweaters… it’s a thing. Hard not to do it myself.

Still Going Strong

Pleather Plants

I adore these pants from RW&Co. Being black they go with everything, and they are stretchy so it’s not an uncomfortable wear. One would have to tare these out of my cold and dead hands. I love them that much.

Turtle Necks

I took a break from turtle necks when I left my interpreting career. I needed to find a new me. But now that I am fully rooted into a different profession and feeling (mostly) confident about my place in it…I have to admit, welcoming turtle necks back into my life is like embracing a serious side of myself that I had missed. I love them and in the maritime chill of the autumn/winter, they do more than just make me feel snappy. They are so cozy.

Time To Go

Reading / cozy socks

I have worn my thick socks around the house to the point of holes. It’s no real surprise. They can only last so long. I will have to retire a pair or two by Spring.

Thankfully I have built my winter / autumn wardrobe up well now that not much has to be tossed or replaced.
Next year, I will try to focus on getting a pair of winter walking boots (for trails and nature walking) as the two boots I have now are best suited for city or side walk walking.

After a hard year, it seemed fitting to me that the tracks on this winter seasons playlist were both hopeful with a few reflective tones.

Winter 2021 Playlist

Stand Outs

New Kind of Beautiful | Lindsey Rey

Opening with Lindsey Rey. I first heard this song in December when the last episode of Greys Anatomy aired before the Christmas break. As always the amazing Alexandra Patsavas brings a greys episode to a close with epic tracks. This one felt so timely for the world, for the families, for the souls, for the singular person.

“A new way a new road, to a new kind of beautiful…..not like it was before.”

Want | Birdtalker

This is another soul cry track moving into the new year. We have seen division, terror, systemic racism and endless pain. When I heard this track a few months ago, it moved me. This is my heart cry for my work, my family and how I move through the world.

“I don’t wanna have a dagger tounge. I dont want my words to be a weapon, but a healing balm.”

Vincent | Ellie Goulding

This song has always been a favourite of mine. I first heard Josh Groban sing it when I was a teen and fell in love. It was around the time I began learning how to figure skate and how every song to me, was an opportunity to dream of choreography. Ellie’s rendition brings me back to that feeling of limitlessness I felt in those days and how much pain I was coming into the realization that the world was holding. A bittersweet tune full of bittersweet memories.

“Now I think I know. What you tried to say to me. And how you suffered for your sanity, how you tried to set them free.”

High | Miley Cyrus

Miley’s voice gets me every time. That genuine rasp she’s had since she was a kid, that rebel heart. Sometimes I have to roll my eyes at her antics, but there is no denying when she lays down tracks with her vocals, she has something that is unique to her and this is one of those for me. Oh, there is Miley putting beats and vocals to something I can feel my heart respond to.

“And you, like a rolling stone, always building cities on the hearts that you broke.”