tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91585162866424335532024-03-05T07:25:38.221-08:00Tasty & ChicLiving with StyleUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-90101808432797136952015-01-12T17:40:00.000-08:002015-01-13T16:44:15.389-08:00Baked Arancini with Marinara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my goals for autumn of 2014 was to try out a few <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2014/10/friday-favorite-5-must-try-autumn-dishes.html" target="_blank">new recipes</a>. Dishes that I have always been curious to try but the dishes themselves seemed much too complicated or sophisticated for my time and energy level. Well, autumn turned into winter and here we are in the new year! I have yet to try all 5 recipes but one I'm super excited to finally share is the <a href="http://jjbegonia.com/2014/09/18/3-tips-for-making-super-creamy-butternut-squash-risotto-that-dont-involve-stirring/" target="_blank">Super Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cr9S6K6mwIImfXEW9CTla_8e2N-TQJn4bibXzNNhk9SUOshyMUxmnOj3qpPVP9Fb7o7gl-xerlaYNBuGI7T0J6Ut_EMbSeguhYMOdhPLEylR770ja9WEGHjoQi8n9FxC9S5DqDnswH0/s1600/risotto+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Cr9S6K6mwIImfXEW9CTla_8e2N-TQJn4bibXzNNhk9SUOshyMUxmnOj3qpPVP9Fb7o7gl-xerlaYNBuGI7T0J6Ut_EMbSeguhYMOdhPLEylR770ja9WEGHjoQi8n9FxC9S5DqDnswH0/s1600/risotto+2.jpg" height="420px" width="650px" /></a></div>
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The risotto was delicious and definitely creamy, however a couple tweeks which made my risotto turn out as expected was:</div>
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Add chopped bacon into the shallot/onion to give the dish more depth (and frankly, everything ALWAYS tastes better with bacon!).</div>
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Heat up only enough chicken stock as necessary. You can always heat more up but the worst case of risotto is if it goes mushy and gloppy a.k.a. too much stock. Add one cup at a time and continuously stir throughout. In total, I used 7 cups stock for 2 cups of rice.</div>
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Taste the risotto throughout the cooking process to decide when it is done.</div>
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Unless you LOVE butternut squash, only use half of the squash. I find the flavor is overwhelming and half was plenty. </div>
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Okay, now let's talk about Arancini. Typically a fried italian dish that involves risotto and cheese. What could be better right? This is a lighter version with the same amount of flavor and crispiness which will have you turning to this dish for a healthier alternative to this oh so delicious appetizer, main or even a midnight snack!</div>
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BAKED ARANCINI WITH MARINARA</div>
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Makes approximately 2 dozen arancini balls</div>
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Prep Time: 20 minutes with prepared risotto (arancini is made best with risotto that has sat overnight)</div>
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes</div>
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<u>Ingredients:</u></div>
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<a href="http://jjbegonia.com/2014/09/18/3-tips-for-making-super-creamy-butternut-squash-risotto-that-dont-involve-stirring/" target="_blank">Super Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto</a></div>
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24 - 1/2 inch cubes of havarti, mozzarella, bocconcini or any other softer cheese</div>
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4 cups - store bought bread crumbs (they need to be super dry and super fine)</div>
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3 large - eggs</div>
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2 tablespoons - milk<br />
Olive oil</div>
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<a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Simple-Marinara-Sauce/" target="_blank">Marinara Sauce</a></div>
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<u>Directions:</u></div>
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.</div>
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Whisk the eggs and milk together, set aside.<br />
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Using a tablespoon, scoop out a half-palm size of risotto, flatten a bit and add enough cheese to fill, cover the cheese completely with the risotto, forming into a ball.</div>
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Roll the ball in the bread crumbs, then the egg mixture, roll again in the bread crumbs and lay on a cookie sheet. This process gives the baked arancini the necessary crispiness.</div>
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Repeat with all remaining risotto and drizzle olive olive overtop the arancini balls.</div>
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Place prepared arancini balls on middle-rack in heated oven for 15 minutes. At the 15 minute mark, turn on the broil part of your oven. Move the arancini to the top-rack directly under the broil for the remaining 10 minutes until nicely golden and some of the cheese starts to escape and melt.</div>
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Appetizer/Snack - serve the marinara sauce on the side.</div>
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Main - place a couple arancini balls on top of some warm greens and reduced balsamic vinegar, top with the marinara sauce and some freshly cracked pepper.</div>
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Bon Appetit!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-10770412547088488522015-01-09T06:00:00.000-08:002015-01-13T16:46:32.395-08:00Overnight Delicious Oatmeal<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqf-O0J-uP1yLAzT6wMIGIp0hC5jrkx2WK1tzeRoKHVJAqdmjNPH3hyvbhyXeYh8w-34Rzrg9DnRPDDqLhnI_swbIs-f8XyE82UfbSMdbhg92X4A1ggTbsnylwOvSwV7GtwOdbcV6FhY/s1600/oatmeal+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqf-O0J-uP1yLAzT6wMIGIp0hC5jrkx2WK1tzeRoKHVJAqdmjNPH3hyvbhyXeYh8w-34Rzrg9DnRPDDqLhnI_swbIs-f8XyE82UfbSMdbhg92X4A1ggTbsnylwOvSwV7GtwOdbcV6FhY/s1600/oatmeal+2.jpg" height="480" width="650" /></a></div>
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Do you have a hard time prepping work-day breakfasts? Between sleeping through the alarm, frantically grabbing a cup of coffee and quickly getting ready to rush out the door for the morning commute, I know for myself the first thing that gets forgotten IS breakfast, does this sound like you?<br />
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Well, here's an easy, delicious breakfast that is made overnight and the best thing is that when you wake up in the morning, your home smells like fresh baked pie or crisp, I don't know about you, but that will get me out of bed a lot faster than any alarm system!<br />
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<strong>OVERNIGHT DELICIOUS OATMEAL</strong></div>
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Makes 4 - 6 portions (depending on your mason jar)</div>
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Prep Time: 10 minutes</div>
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Cooking Time: Overnight</div>
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<u>Ingredients:</u></div>
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4 cups water</div>
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2 cups steel cut oats / 3 cups quick cooking oats</div>
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3 - 4 apples/pears or any fruit that works well with pie or crisp (if berries, use enough to fully layer the bottom of a crock-pot)</div>
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1/3 cup brown sugar / honey / maple syrup / agave syrup</div>
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2 tablespoons cinnamon</div>
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Layer the ingredients in the following order in your crockpot:</div>
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<em>Fruit</em></div>
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<em>Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over the fruit</em></div>
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<em>Oatmeal</em></div>
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<em>Water</em></div>
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Set your crockpot to low and cook overnight</div>
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In the morning, wake up, smell the oatmeal, enjoy!<br />
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** sprinkle some walnuts, coconut flakes or berries for added flavor **</div>
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** cooked oatmeal stores excellent in the fridge for the full week, portion into individual mason jars and you are good to go **<br />
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How easy is that right? This will beat any drive-through run, just ask S.</div>
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Health Benefits: lowers <span style="background-color: white;">cholesterol</span>, helps prevent type 2 diabetes, helps the metabolism, a slow digesting meal (i.e. keeps you full longer), a complex carbohydrate and the list continues....</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-44730939295562275812014-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:002015-01-13T16:49:22.993-08:00Friday Favorite: 5 Must-Try Autumn Dishes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Autumn has officially arrived on the West Coast of Canada. It's beautifully crisp weather right now which is such a nice change from the heat wave we had this summer. Most people are sad to see summer come to an end but personally, I couldn't be more excited to see all the leaves changing and of course, let's not forget the most delicious comfort food you can indulge in!</div>
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This week's favorites are 5 autumn dishes I just can't WAIT to test out....<br />
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<strong><u>Super-Creamy Butter Nut Squash Risotto</u></strong></div>
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<a href="http://jjbegonia.com/2014/09/18/3-tips-for-making-super-creamy-butternut-squash-risotto-that-dont-involve-stirring/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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Butternut squash and autumn go hand in hand. When I go to the produce market and start to notice the first items available are various forms of squash, I know instinctively that autumn is just around the corner. Trying really hard to eat with the seasons and I just know combining 2 favorite autumn foods (risotto and butternut squash) can only mean good things!</div>
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<strong><u>Spiked Apple Cider</u></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvItL5BQZVMfpHWhj3bf5QUINe2VbaNvMk7rcgCKkfyVNgbE_VtDhXsyK9_OFjvNfB9BeqYfX1Rc6WsdPaW1MB5LLO4mClGSUInfJvNyTtkYtRGx1noxSRiZZYEYoxylwwCV17I6Ll1Vw/s1600/tdb-applejack15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvItL5BQZVMfpHWhj3bf5QUINe2VbaNvMk7rcgCKkfyVNgbE_VtDhXsyK9_OFjvNfB9BeqYfX1Rc6WsdPaW1MB5LLO4mClGSUInfJvNyTtkYtRGx1noxSRiZZYEYoxylwwCV17I6Ll1Vw/s1600/tdb-applejack15.jpg" height="650" width="650" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_952292232"></span><span id="goog_952292233"></span> <a href="http://www.thedrinkblog.com/johnny-appleseed/" target="_blank">via<span id="goog_1802549490"></span></a></div>
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Although I've never been a fan of apple juice, there's something about apple cider that just feels different and more exciting, in reality it is basically a warm version of apple juice. This recipe sounds delicious because it incorporates some fantastic liquors to it which I can't wait to try after a cold day outside on a Saturday or Sunday evening with friends.<br />
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<strong><u>Easy Weeknight Chili</u></strong><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUqdJffexIrDT-mkpIdzhupHGhHnX3jN6FAPImG3Z4UgqK5eGzankpeDySNCrUL0tj51LqP2mL8hXAm_Zk9QV_ntcy_LDakG3YXm56zt53InOfP17OQdMBx9XSnmYmmteWc_I0-SMlJ4/s1600/chili.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUqdJffexIrDT-mkpIdzhupHGhHnX3jN6FAPImG3Z4UgqK5eGzankpeDySNCrUL0tj51LqP2mL8hXAm_Zk9QV_ntcy_LDakG3YXm56zt53InOfP17OQdMBx9XSnmYmmteWc_I0-SMlJ4/s1600/chili.jpg" height="650" width="650" /></a><br />
<a href="http://theeverygirl.com/feature/everygirl-can-cook-crock-pot-chili" target="_blank">via</a><br />
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There's nothing quite like coming home to a house that smells like delicious home-cooked goodness. This recipe is a classic chili but made fantastically easy by using a crockpot. It may not be as glamorous as the previous 2 recipes however sometimes easy and healthy wins out, especially after a busy day at the office.<br />
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<strong><u>Beer Mac & Cheese</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5wmatCR26qxFgmKF7lAJmXCwqzVUc-GICJCu0wwtDeRIxKkItVHVO4wM7r4WBEUWfS4ilEom8u3LV3dx-3vJpbxZM02eILa4yBKrXGVR7trmurrzvtGnWjPJh4xcsPawiJKk0YzFEd4/s1600/beermac-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj5wmatCR26qxFgmKF7lAJmXCwqzVUc-GICJCu0wwtDeRIxKkItVHVO4wM7r4WBEUWfS4ilEom8u3LV3dx-3vJpbxZM02eILa4yBKrXGVR7trmurrzvtGnWjPJh4xcsPawiJKk0YzFEd4/s1600/beermac-5.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/08/easy-beer-mac-and-cheese/" target="_blank">via</a><br />
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So, when S. and I were first married, we took an eight-week cooking class at the <a href="http://www.nwcav.com/" target="_blank">Northwest Culinary Academy</a>. There we learnt how to make delicious dishes such as lemon tarts, chicken scallopini, beetroot salad and many other items which would take too long to list. One of my favorite dishes was the mac & cheese night we had there. This was no ordinary mac & cheese because chef added an interesting ingredient which made this dish hands-down the winner for the whole eight weeks we took the course... beer! I have been scouring our place for the recipe however it looks like it's lost forever but in searching online, I found the recipe above which I am curious to test out and see if it meets my expectations from the original fabulous recipe.<br />
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<strong><u>Japanese Miso Ramen</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJNaMBsoZXdXo8IzuhByBBjw_qpVnsBQ0rbkYElblEC12IBiyTS_CiVY5QujtzXb7uudj-G6UN8lbtngZiDVPsAXJ-2AGlNU4o4hu5lpDd2QAfhfNoYCmNnrAEtTwA0Lxu1VkXp_Te70/s1600/miso-ramen-recipe-20971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJNaMBsoZXdXo8IzuhByBBjw_qpVnsBQ0rbkYElblEC12IBiyTS_CiVY5QujtzXb7uudj-G6UN8lbtngZiDVPsAXJ-2AGlNU4o4hu5lpDd2QAfhfNoYCmNnrAEtTwA0Lxu1VkXp_Te70/s1600/miso-ramen-recipe-20971.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikB2I0cWeUE6nuyDJV33hZKsanx6E4wvfsM5Fs1t0uu5Jpc2G2ihTuc2ELLtigtw7O6NHJS7XV0lnoeCg7KW8Fsr6KcgYlGC8ZsBpU0YH2Tm5XRWJwLVwzbocVFahT5YtSJiSQRybKAQ/s1600/miso-ramen-recipe-20971.jpg" target="_blank">via</a><br />
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S will laugh because he is always bugging me for my obsession with the perfectly made rice along with my unending craving for Japanese ramen. Most people think of Sapporo Ichiban or some other form of asian instant noodle which is full of MSG when ramen is mentioned, however I can't wait to try <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-REAL-Japanese-ramen-from-scratch/" target="_blank">THIS</a> recipe because it will teach me how to make the perfectly chewy yet firm noodles that are so popular throughout Japan and with anyone who has a Japanese heritage, they will agree that this is autumn comfort food at it's best.<br />
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Can't wait to try out each recipe in the coming months so please stay tuned as there will be reviews and of course some good laughs to go along with said testing.<br />
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TGIF!<br />
Any plans for this weekend?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-10262744663794369652014-08-08T06:00:00.000-07:002015-01-13T17:09:08.245-08:00Summer Lovin': Weekend Bike Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBD63FtiVHy-AETjytYJ32zowtFTE89g1amTz5gya01Dli4lM93Y4LnfYrl6ZVc8SaQ9z87twMbdoR-OYRiGcmL9yqwEMHbHwY7hVYcOThnvWeWqn3Zu5szuUh-pRAxwikJIZvdKJ45X8/s1600/large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBD63FtiVHy-AETjytYJ32zowtFTE89g1amTz5gya01Dli4lM93Y4LnfYrl6ZVc8SaQ9z87twMbdoR-OYRiGcmL9yqwEMHbHwY7hVYcOThnvWeWqn3Zu5szuUh-pRAxwikJIZvdKJ45X8/s1600/large.jpg" height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/7990420" target="_blank">via< height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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Have you been having a great summer so far?</div>
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S and I definitely have, it has involved a lot of sunny, hot weekends at the beach and mandatory evening <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2014/06/summer-lovin-top-5-stylish-bike-tips.html" target="_blank">bike rides</a>. <a name='more'></a>Our friends are astonished when we tell them that:<br /></div>
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<em>"last night we rode in from New Westminster to Vancouver to go for dinner and drinks"</em></div>
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and their immediate reaction is that we must be avid, hard-core cyclists; this could not be farther from the truth! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvGJ-G9AwHgfXtXZJ8RmGUA0dCZzS3y47xesmTEPPsRKtwiCAkwzjvbc5yLH-55qgyPx5lHCx7YL_x3itRR5ULHYejR1q34Yp1da7zz7r80EqTuzrAHmGjlPjCanjcG4eGo2-WuioWbJQ/s1600/tumblr_mm36ecXpIv1rnxv1io1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvGJ-G9AwHgfXtXZJ8RmGUA0dCZzS3y47xesmTEPPsRKtwiCAkwzjvbc5yLH-55qgyPx5lHCx7YL_x3itRR5ULHYejR1q34Yp1da7zz7r80EqTuzrAHmGjlPjCanjcG4eGo2-WuioWbJQ/s1600/tumblr_mm36ecXpIv1rnxv1io1_500.jpg" height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/397020523371493200/" target="_blank"> via< height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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So friends, today's post is all about the best bike route for anyone who would like to ride around the lower mainland and specifically for those who live east of the downtown/westside/eastside core: this route winds itself from New Westminster to Vancouver, eventually connecting directly onto the beautiful Stanley Park seawall.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWnY145Gwuv2oZ44l7Q5WSsk_6MwdqGoMI-llWDJ5H0cjOWIADl9ZQVsBc4RTMXcAehMxZn-LshzvS-PgtenZUFQ8N4XtD9cGopBe6MuBfytzV3PVpkwNhDXVcphtD-05WH5iuDwAbd0/s1600/city+cycling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWnY145Gwuv2oZ44l7Q5WSsk_6MwdqGoMI-llWDJ5H0cjOWIADl9ZQVsBc4RTMXcAehMxZn-LshzvS-PgtenZUFQ8N4XtD9cGopBe6MuBfytzV3PVpkwNhDXVcphtD-05WH5iuDwAbd0/s1600/city+cycling.jpg" height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/397020523371493668/" target="_blank">via<height="850" width="650" /></a></div>
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1 hour and 10 minutes from New Westminster to Union Street/Main Street, with a fitness level of 5 out of 10 and safety at the same rate, make sure to try this route, you will surely be addicted! This route will of course include food and drink stops in New Westminster, East Vancouver, Chinatown, Coal Harbour, Yaletown and False Creek.</div>
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Starting your cycle tour through quaint Queens Park in New Westminster, make sure to appreciate the palatial homes which carry as much revenue for the owner as it does history!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxwsYJdLbzdy_rUPhkfBefCRR9IMNN7ZoAA0CQgomP3CFTnJGVX5Z1R9cEF6x3lbEsNM2Gic08ArHqHFTwn0rh68UFwM-daPyqMMMdxLUlo4xmP-8Bmu8qr9VU9UzoQWZfaWqrzGEe4M/s1600/queens+park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxwsYJdLbzdy_rUPhkfBefCRR9IMNN7ZoAA0CQgomP3CFTnJGVX5Z1R9cEF6x3lbEsNM2Gic08ArHqHFTwn0rh68UFwM-daPyqMMMdxLUlo4xmP-8Bmu8qr9VU9UzoQWZfaWqrzGEe4M/s1600/queens+park.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/41728734019792644/" target="_blank">via< height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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From Queens Park head WEST on the Crosstown route (7th Avenue) // At Sixth Street turn RIGHT and ride up half a block // Keep an eye out to your LEFT....</div>
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Anny's Dairy Bar, the only place on earth where I don't get an insta-stomach ache after consuming sugar and dairy. I can't promise you that it indeed solves dairy allergies however, I can most definitely promise you the best ice cream experience EVER. Make sure it's the maple twist cone you order! I've heard their poutine is quite scrumptious as well...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByOqCJB7k9fsER6ufIL3YbX6Q5Qz7fSrXoTaPylw7jVFXrrKvoddxyXGrq5ubemoQCWy8FITWT4DjByju7bvrxQ4dZKPxai61gbiJpWnLGqlPmcVXyHaxq2IHkGLDX9xzrRH89d6AD3w/s1600/annys-maple-twist-cone-620x348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByOqCJB7k9fsER6ufIL3YbX6Q5Qz7fSrXoTaPylw7jVFXrrKvoddxyXGrq5ubemoQCWy8FITWT4DjByju7bvrxQ4dZKPxai61gbiJpWnLGqlPmcVXyHaxq2IHkGLDX9xzrRH89d6AD3w/s1600/annys-maple-twist-cone-620x348.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://foodology.ca/annys-dairy-bar-maple-twist-ice-cream/" target="_blank">via< height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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Anny's Dairy Bar</div>
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722 Sixth Street</div>
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* New Westminster *</div>
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Get back onto the Crosstown route until you get to Moody Park, ride through the park // At Tenth Street turn RIGHT, continue until London Street // Turn LEFT onto London Street, continue on the London Street Bikeway // Staying on London Street Bikeway will connect you directly onto the BC Parkway // Head WEST on the BC Parkway....</div>
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The BC Parkway is one of the safest bikes routes around, most of the route is a dedicated bike lane, meaning no contact with cars whatsoever.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bdhTmRa13TAQIlogHwvF37_IR2KfhAXnEiGTQidYhN1SNoZlDC37L0PILZq-A0DuGBm4Wotx_CvigV76rXKZLUuIEilVb4JbQPz_fsFieoaVTl6TBZJBnsUXbJYppDxMa-VXMW94NlM/s1600/bc+parkway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bdhTmRa13TAQIlogHwvF37_IR2KfhAXnEiGTQidYhN1SNoZlDC37L0PILZq-A0DuGBm4Wotx_CvigV76rXKZLUuIEilVb4JbQPz_fsFieoaVTl6TBZJBnsUXbJYppDxMa-VXMW94NlM/s1600/bc+parkway.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://venturinginvancouver.com/tag/beer-samples/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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BC Parkway winds through Burnaby until you reach Central Park // At Central Park/Boundary Road head NORTH down Boundary turn LEFT on Vanness Avenue // Continue WEST on Vanness (keep an eye out for the BC Parkway signs) // BC Parkway will lead you right to John Hendry Park....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6B1LnvfC7rj3AZY_I4ORxAaZ4IR7zUrI7acN-_sHIU9iQOhnsJzfQ8GVZLvbTOP6VhWsJ-S2f5qcrQxgOs70ENmTjQc8y2mbeFuW3oUYlf2PDa00uYVfl6PnxcMf0am0dIoHmPsfN3zo/s1600/7985821522_b5084aa506_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6B1LnvfC7rj3AZY_I4ORxAaZ4IR7zUrI7acN-_sHIU9iQOhnsJzfQ8GVZLvbTOP6VhWsJ-S2f5qcrQxgOs70ENmTjQc8y2mbeFuW3oUYlf2PDa00uYVfl6PnxcMf0am0dIoHmPsfN3zo/s1600/7985821522_b5084aa506_b.jpg"height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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Ride THROUGH John Hendry Park turn down Lakewood Drive // Cycling down Lakewood Drive connects directly back onto the BC Parkway route until Commercial Drive // Turn RIGHT onto Commercial Drive and cycle down......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2YVcv9H2JYrR-lo5w85WEyDK-YL3aZy4jTKSVYEiYjSJp-mFSkNIK2l5WXCcxCyM0Q3V3fitZ8hZeXLE3hahZKGljR4N2wSxhLswSnXNjbCA87LTH3ebfIVakpcp1IMJpDLoS-rUQLc/s1600/commercial+drive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2YVcv9H2JYrR-lo5w85WEyDK-YL3aZy4jTKSVYEiYjSJp-mFSkNIK2l5WXCcxCyM0Q3V3fitZ8hZeXLE3hahZKGljR4N2wSxhLswSnXNjbCA87LTH3ebfIVakpcp1IMJpDLoS-rUQLc/s1600/commercial+drive.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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Kishimoto Japanese Kitchen & Sushi Bar is hands-down one of the best sushi places in Vancouver. Directly on Commercial Drive a few shops down from the Grandview-Woodland bike route, it's a perfect appetizer stop on your way into downtown Vancouver. Everything is delicious and the only advice is to check out what everyone else is ordering and if a dish appeals to you, ask for it! Get there right at 5 PM or you will be waiting....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXtejRvjM-S31yCBf8msiZh-EJtJjv04sA2F8Lfm69RMe8QW-v0z26IJVD2zG-OP7fXUA_matASumdbsEFd1lygwnCmwDhsWaqkSu7nh6D2P3go45uYM6gruOAeHBqfsFSvDGaxch4pY/s1600/kishimoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXtejRvjM-S31yCBf8msiZh-EJtJjv04sA2F8Lfm69RMe8QW-v0z26IJVD2zG-OP7fXUA_matASumdbsEFd1lygwnCmwDhsWaqkSu7nh6D2P3go45uYM6gruOAeHBqfsFSvDGaxch4pY/s1600/kishimoto.jpg"height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://dinehere.ca/vancouver/kishimoto-japanese-kitchen-sushi-bar" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<span class="street-address">2054 Commercial Drive (closed on Mondays)</span></div>
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<span class="street-address">* East Vancouver *</span></div>
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<span class="street-address">Continue WEST on the Grandview-Woodland route and turn right on Woodland Drive // Head NORTH down Woodland until you hit Venables, continue past the intersection until you reach Adanac Street, turn LEFT....</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.bomberbrewing.com/" target="_blank">Bomber Brewing</a> is one stop that still needs to be experienced. We personally have not had a chance to visit however it is on our next cycle tour "must-do" as the reviews are very good and there is always a steady stream of people exiting and entering this brewery, whether for the tasting room or to fill their growlers. They are open until 11 PM / 7 days a week so this spot can be hit either on the way down to Vancouver or on the return home back to New Westminter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WOQieTwr4eXGxWBkGsPGPqUli9gKBrw_AT_ZAa9Fhi59PCzvCo1PI2qvbRfN5b9UtnDT7-aUtKmhg-OJqzSBwW6_93ly4d5OprlL7T791i9aoAL7MvhCj75gAH3jPOmPeMIv3xePuy8/s1600/beer+tasting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_WOQieTwr4eXGxWBkGsPGPqUli9gKBrw_AT_ZAa9Fhi59PCzvCo1PI2qvbRfN5b9UtnDT7-aUtKmhg-OJqzSBwW6_93ly4d5OprlL7T791i9aoAL7MvhCj75gAH3jPOmPeMIv3xePuy8/s1600/beer+tasting.jpg" height="420" width="650"/></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bomberbrewing.com/brewery#brewery-25" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bomberbrewing.com/contact-bomber-brewing" target="_blank">Bomber Brewing</a></div>
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1488 Adanac Street</div>
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* East Vancouver *</div>
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<span class="street-address">Continue WEST down Adanac Street, you will start to see a steady stream of cyclists // Follow the crowd down Union Street until you cross Dunlevy Avenue // Prepare to PARK your bike at any of the bike racks provided by the city.....</span></div>
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The Union Bar is the perfect stop heading into downtown Vancouver. There are always tons of bikes parked outside and the atmosphere is full of life. Grab a seat on their patio, people watch and order the best dish hands down, their Banh-Mi sandwich. On Mondays their special is any of the Banh-Mi sandwiches with a pint of beer for $10.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFv7MDrxg2fVS2kOaS4b5TD47ylsYQNS1fXArfYeXXcoYKjArVdH2ofW6EHqyZeQBL6SaO0BJeVMC3duxvRG2vJasyHGbrYBooXdinJ9OE39DjlLZpzHRHeuEi8WZinG0awAeF6RSReLg/s1600/banh+mi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFv7MDrxg2fVS2kOaS4b5TD47ylsYQNS1fXArfYeXXcoYKjArVdH2ofW6EHqyZeQBL6SaO0BJeVMC3duxvRG2vJasyHGbrYBooXdinJ9OE39DjlLZpzHRHeuEi8WZinG0awAeF6RSReLg/s1600/banh+mi.jpg"height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://foursquare.com/v/the-union/4f03b90cf9ab88b0c1b64c89" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theunionvancouver.ca/" target="_blank">The Union Bar</a></div>
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219 Union Street (at Main)</div>
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* Chinatown *</div>
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Now, you have 2 choices, go for dessert in Chinatown or continue your bike route towards the seawall.....</div>
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DESSERT: Continue WEST down Union Street towards Quebec Street // Turn RIGHT and continue (Quebec turns into Columbia) until Pender Street // Turn RIGHT on Pender Street and cycle half-way up the block....</div>
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<a href="http://www.newtownbakery.ca/" target="_blank">New Town Bakery</a> where the best apple tarts are sold. Famous even in New York City (no joke), this is THE bakery for melt-in-your-mouth flaky pastry that envelopes perfectly baked apples. Don't let the dingy facade fool you, the owners know exactly what they are doing. Bring cash and your "elbowing" powers!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Kn7-LxkiR32vvwmKAFSgs4DHwYGMjfae7JXV8erl8Ro8V1AQoBAkR9raGGZtY1VjSVVUs_PNzgWhBS2KhduVD5ZvWwuAV29GYBySA7GIXgOBc-eENLskdtfilkKMNy-uqKxKsFJe6AU/s1600/New+Town.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Kn7-LxkiR32vvwmKAFSgs4DHwYGMjfae7JXV8erl8Ro8V1AQoBAkR9raGGZtY1VjSVVUs_PNzgWhBS2KhduVD5ZvWwuAV29GYBySA7GIXgOBc-eENLskdtfilkKMNy-uqKxKsFJe6AU/s1600/New+Town.jpg" height="420" width="650"/></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/14/181263/restaurant/Chinatown/New-Town-Bakery-Restaurant-Vancouver" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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New Town Bakery</div>
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148 East Pender Street (open until 8:30 PM)</div>
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* Chinatown *</div>
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SEAWALL: Continue WEST down Union Street towards Quebec Street // Turn LEFT and continue until the seawall appears // Turn RIGHT and start your cycle around the seawall. </div>
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The following are excellent stops along one of the most beautiful seawall routes in North America.</div>
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Not sure how the group at <a href="http://www.cactusclubcafe.com/" target="_blank">Cactus Club Cafe</a> receives licensing however all kudos to them as the restaurant group seems to find the most perfect locations throughout our city. In addition to the location, their food matches perfectly and a visit to Cactus Club Cafe never disappoints. Favorites include: Ravioli Prawn Trio, Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl (with extra yogurt dressing of course!), Bellinis and Spiked Frapps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdOFjPjvL_wflsFPjFsS8QkpfD5BY8wr4Z7iSjVf2pD5YBsEP9bbniGj1nnTH0TF-dGtL1Gz6DNxr6nqGyHUGPUECt30fb0pItN4RasxHz07kqlcEKGNFmurCGwKkUSfHAGI_fXWGWus/s1600/englishbay9-620x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggdOFjPjvL_wflsFPjFsS8QkpfD5BY8wr4Z7iSjVf2pD5YBsEP9bbniGj1nnTH0TF-dGtL1Gz6DNxr6nqGyHUGPUECt30fb0pItN4RasxHz07kqlcEKGNFmurCGwKkUSfHAGI_fXWGWus/s1600/englishbay9-620x400.jpg" height="420" width="650"/></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cactusclubcafe.com/location/english-bay/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.cactusclubcafe.com/" target="_blank"> Cactus Club Cafe</a></div>
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1790 Beach Avenue</div>
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* English Bay/Westend *</div>
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Just one block up from the seawall in the financial district of Vancouver is <a href="http://giovanecafe.com/" target="_blank">Giovane Cafe</a>, are you starting to feel a bit tired from all the cycling? Then make a sugar bun stop at Giovane's, you won't be disappointed! And while you are at it, browse through their great collection of international magazines.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFbtQ1S9QVVOq3V3OzUhlASpFcGMG9kbZJFusoNQDUt4CVEBp9lRxnkXjG6efN4E6DkWrN3Hks_yo2wPnzVTiSqHbFxIAolDNS6tlCXEkGDSgM5UvyO-gt5oCHwOO7HI-S5e66BBKKqQ/s1600/sugar+bun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgFbtQ1S9QVVOq3V3OzUhlASpFcGMG9kbZJFusoNQDUt4CVEBp9lRxnkXjG6efN4E6DkWrN3Hks_yo2wPnzVTiSqHbFxIAolDNS6tlCXEkGDSgM5UvyO-gt5oCHwOO7HI-S5e66BBKKqQ/s1600/sugar+bun.jpg"height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shimaceo/4495999074/sizes/z/in/photostream/" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<a href="http://giovanecafe.com/bakery/" target="_blank">Giovane Cafe</a></div>
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1038 Canada Place</div>
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* Coal Harbour * </div>
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Don't let this picture of the Tap & Barrel fool you. Their patio is never empty so make sure to stop here at the end of your tour. Please PLEASE request a table on their upstairs patio because the view of the sunset is absolute perfection! I have to admit I visit this place strictly for their beer flights. It's a fun way to be introduced to different beers and T&B was where my love for beers was reignited.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9v4xt6ZPED85xqdO09Eca-LMhWM2mii4XUa37TidE_twGIh5RGFhtGscMoCHesAcfOK3lE6PDxp-Dd0n201iPN26nKdgRz6FEtmOyFVRIwlFADP4Pc8vMSx3x-kVimvE4dHEIcRzUEw/s1600/Tap+&+Barrel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9v4xt6ZPED85xqdO09Eca-LMhWM2mii4XUa37TidE_twGIh5RGFhtGscMoCHesAcfOK3lE6PDxp-Dd0n201iPN26nKdgRz6FEtmOyFVRIwlFADP4Pc8vMSx3x-kVimvE4dHEIcRzUEw/s1600/Tap+&+Barrel.jpg"height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sefalsecreekliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/2013-01-20-13.37.49-1.jpg" target="_blank">via</a></div>
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<a href="http://tapandbarrel.com/#locations/1" target="_blank">Tap & Barrel</a></div>
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1 Athletes Way at the Olympic Village</div>
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* False Creek *</div>
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Planning on making this tour roundtrip? You can jump on the skytrain which will take you home to any of the outerlying suburbs of Vancouver or if you are like us, we force ourselves to ride home shaving off some of those calories we seem to always consume :).</div>
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TGIF and Bon Appetit!</div>
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What are you up to this weekend?</div>
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** Oh and <a href="http://www.no-wrong-turns.blogspot.ca/2013/10/cycling-bc-parkway-to-central-valley.html" target="_blank">here</a> is a great resource that will confirm your addiction to riding the BC Parkway **</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-21540242970116682282014-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:002015-01-13T17:14:17.011-08:00Series I: Economically Chic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6v7eggeAKutdzltEmNFjtiHCCPIPiBwLSA0DdZ1VwKUmAT8R4sDI6qTDoE2oEjITZvwZdzh-k5KcGDIdYKHxRzgypDJ0lw9cCLTnHS6FrwiJe1PxZ8XUamkTR-0q8Fy-H0s028SUzI8/s1600/Chic+Shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6v7eggeAKutdzltEmNFjtiHCCPIPiBwLSA0DdZ1VwKUmAT8R4sDI6qTDoE2oEjITZvwZdzh-k5KcGDIdYKHxRzgypDJ0lw9cCLTnHS6FrwiJe1PxZ8XUamkTR-0q8Fy-H0s028SUzI8/s1600/Chic+Shopping.jpg" height="320" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.alistmomtravel.com/shop-like-a-euro-chic-outlet-shopping-villages/" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Are you anything like me and love a great deal <em>ESPECIALLY</em> when it comes to your wardrobe? <br />
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As my close friends and family will confirm, I love love LOVE high-end brands (unhealthy some may say) because frankly, no other type of fashion seems to have the quality and beauty that HONEST name-brand products are known for. Realistically, I can only afford high-end once or twice a year. So my style collection revolves around the oocasional investment splurge with a lot of <em>economically chic</em> items dispersed throughout my closet creating a great base for high-low fashion. <br />
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Do you notice yourself responding with this phrase each time someone compliments you on your outfit?<br />
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<em>"Thanks! I got it at XXXX spot and guess what, they are having an awesome sale right now, this piece was 50% off!"</em><br />
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Well, if that's the case you are going to LOVE this series, showcasing great designers that are not only <em><strong>economical</strong></em> but most importantly, <em><strong>fashionable</strong></em> and <em><strong>chic</strong></em>.<br />
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To start off the Series, let's talk about a brand that has been around for decades, they've recently rebranded their products into true fashion trends that can be enjoyed during the week OR the weekend. A few of their best pieces below; make sure to get them soon because I <em>GUARANTEE</em> they will be gone before you know it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2WpE3bwPpOV1hBEBz7Ut3MIEy5gWq0UDDAeyCR0GxIAskZtZ4aAjYCmSqAO1h0MiiCdGLlMCmUB48saLbyCtse-zdULBFfuJfFfFUpYfL3bgwPOK8lKPCtIRaRv0rMe4uVqvZ6aBIkA/s1600/Presentation2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS2WpE3bwPpOV1hBEBz7Ut3MIEy5gWq0UDDAeyCR0GxIAskZtZ4aAjYCmSqAO1h0MiiCdGLlMCmUB48saLbyCtse-zdULBFfuJfFfFUpYfL3bgwPOK8lKPCtIRaRv0rMe4uVqvZ6aBIkA/s1600/Presentation2.jpg" height="350" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hojn6ljhX68CltFz876vr9dPdtZfdrs6F91fu7-eivguwudhOsCRkvNm7gkx57yCyoy7MKBZeDuwzWV6eblmP2y4UlVg7XVM-R9f6JnyEj52swNS6DkaRIZXLi38C99koqzXewfWVnc/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Hojn6ljhX68CltFz876vr9dPdtZfdrs6F91fu7-eivguwudhOsCRkvNm7gkx57yCyoy7MKBZeDuwzWV6eblmP2y4UlVg7XVM-R9f6JnyEj52swNS6DkaRIZXLi38C99koqzXewfWVnc/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" height="350" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-women-s-3-skort-assorted-colors/-/A-15278474" target="_blank">The Ponte Skort</a></div>
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Weekday: Target Blouse (SOLD OUT), similar <a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1015182&vid=1&pid=950842002" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a> // Prada Flats (SOLD OUT), similer <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shoes/ballets/PRDOVR~06697/06697.jsp" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a></div>
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Weekend: Alice & Olivia Racerback Tank (SOLD OUT), similer <a href="http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/Beaded-Racerback-Tank-Top/255763.uts?cid=ps:nonbrand:Google:none:PLA&device=c&network=g&adpos=1o5&creative=33359802304&gclid=CjwKEAjw8_idBRCExfC15My3owwSJACSDX_WbhqKbZ_HKSbK9v_AkYQ7gGOQwa55DqyRjF4uE96T9xoCSlfw_wcB" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a> // Faith Black Heels <a href="http://us.asos.com/Faith-Black-Lazer-Cut-High-Heeled-Sandals/12fdxc/?iid=3611356&cid=4172&Rf989=5029&sh=0&pge=3&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&mporgp=L0ZhaXRoL0ZhaXRoLUJsYWNrLUxhemVyLUN1dC1IaWdoLUhlZWxlZC1TYW5kYWxzL1Byb2Qv" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pyzMtKMNeu5Ydr3pDmtBo3L7_LPH_3S_lZe9dH-5MJ1GBOoX1eyM874BpidWTsBEe7xTdxW2txpMOVuNxSHwmlrRXYp0_bgAx98JlIoIf2Q5AQlo9j1MED5PJI3SKcJ1TsyjrYPVnR8/s1600/Presentation3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3pyzMtKMNeu5Ydr3pDmtBo3L7_LPH_3S_lZe9dH-5MJ1GBOoX1eyM874BpidWTsBEe7xTdxW2txpMOVuNxSHwmlrRXYp0_bgAx98JlIoIf2Q5AQlo9j1MED5PJI3SKcJ1TsyjrYPVnR8/s1600/Presentation3.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-women-s-colorblock-shift-dress-assorted-colors/-/A-14965593#prodSlot=medium_5_34&term=mossimo" target="_blank">The Shift Dress<height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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Weekday: Tom Binns Jewelry <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/tom-binns/br/v=1/2534374302124034.htm?all&extid=PS_Google_SC_usa&s_kwcid=AL!3510!3!36999794308!p!!g!!tom%20binns&ef_id=U0LLXQAAAMy3E17G:20140710202546:s" target="_blank">here</a>, similar <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/sale/sale-all" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a> // Prada Pumps <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Prada-Leather-High-Heel-Pointy-Pump/prod164380355_cat14860748__/p.prod?icid=&searchType=EndecaDrivenCat&rte=%252Fcategory.service%253FitemId%253Dcat14860748%2526pageSize%253D30%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D4294893189%252C&eItemId=prod164380355&cmCat=product" target="_blank">here</a>, similar <a href="http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/harquin-slingback-heel-0051-84526184--24" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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Weekend: Roberto Cavalli Sunglasses <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/roberto_cavalli_teti_croc_oversized/thing?id=72113811" target="_blank">here</a>, similar<a href="http://www.bluefly.com/nina-ricci-womens-cat-eye-black-sunglasses/p/336406101/detail.fly" target="_blank"> here and ON SALE!</a> // Kate Spade Flats <a href="http://couture.zappos.com/kate-spade-new-york-jazz-orange-nappa" target="_blank">here</a>, similar <a href="http://www.samedelman.com/Shopping/ProductDetails.aspx?p=EC0204762&pg=3010100" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYGJahnEteDkhExPaMjrczuPrpsjhyGY1qTCTXP02EcaaWAFdkRPq-03BUdB_13FGASxDvJzkTWG4hznn39PZSpUqu8BfPhGRzgxUp8ISY3SitElyR1_oziMADUlByRqX6tmaqPRh3co/s1600/Presentation4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYGJahnEteDkhExPaMjrczuPrpsjhyGY1qTCTXP02EcaaWAFdkRPq-03BUdB_13FGASxDvJzkTWG4hznn39PZSpUqu8BfPhGRzgxUp8ISY3SitElyR1_oziMADUlByRqX6tmaqPRh3co/s1600/Presentation4.jpg" height="420" width="650" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-women-s-knit-maxi-dress-assorted-colors/-/A-14936534#prodSlot=medium_1_38&term=mossimo+maxi" target="_blank">The Maxi Dress</a></div>
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Weekday: Rebecca Minkoff Blazer (SOLD OUT), similar <a href="http://us.aritzia.com/dominick-jacket/48621.html?dwvar_48621_color=1564#start=2" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a> // J.Crew Droplet Necklace <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/browse/multi_product_detail.jsp?externalProductCodes=00000%3AB1694%3AB1676&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474395181737&bmUID=krBP2i2&bmLocale=en_IN" target="_blank">here</a> // Prada Pumps <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/Prada-Leather-High-Heel-Pointy-Pump/prod164380355_cat14860748__/p.prod?icid=&searchType=EndecaDrivenCat&rte=%252Fcategory.service%253FitemId%253Dcat14860748%2526pageSize%253D30%2526No%253D0%2526refinements%253D4294893189%252C&eItemId=prod164380355&cmCat=product" target="_blank">here</a>, similar <a href="http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/harquin-slingback-heel-0051-84526184--24" target="_blank">here and ON SALE!</a></div>
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Weekend: Roberto Cavalli Sunglasses <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/roberto_cavalli_teti_croc_oversized/thing?id=72113811" target="_blank">here</a>, similar<a href="http://www.bluefly.com/nina-ricci-womens-cat-eye-black-sunglasses/p/336406101/detail.fly" target="_blank"> here and ON SALE!</a> // Steve Madden Gladiator Sandals <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kendall-kylie-madden-girl-seriious-sandal/3702823?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=COGNAC&resultback=1714&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_6_B" target="_blank">here</a> // J.Crew Men's Belt <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/Sale/AllProducts/PRD~45886/45886.jsp?Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=BELT&isSaleItem=false&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1" target="_blank">here</a> <br />
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Over the years I've spent alot of my hard-earned money on more "economical" pieces and now have a system that always follows the reminders below:<br />
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1. Always stick to dark colors or black: bright colors will fade and quickly look "cheap" over time.</div>
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2. Always stick to rayon, cotton or polyester-BLEND when it comes to tops: full polyester is very hard on the skin especially during the hot summer months, and back-acne is nice, said NO ONE ever.</div>
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3. Always check the seams and zipper(s) of the clothing: if it is crooked or the zipper catches, these "pieces" will never last.<br />
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Happy Shopping and please stay tuned for more in this new Series!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-71841051045535421532014-06-27T06:00:00.000-07:002014-07-11T09:17:20.885-07:00Friday Favorite: Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Jj2C1nz9bvh65d9J-pIB_PCUM1EdfhY8gOYIyzYHBlzmlHIb-RXZNB_t6SihB3rNP1loQ006eHu2LxU4rVIhuy90vIN9F0k9VIpZE__KJJdDmVOIMDZEZNwPbL-RnNTUBMCoBXk84EQ/s1600/Bao+Bei+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Jj2C1nz9bvh65d9J-pIB_PCUM1EdfhY8gOYIyzYHBlzmlHIb-RXZNB_t6SihB3rNP1loQ006eHu2LxU4rVIhuy90vIN9F0k9VIpZE__KJJdDmVOIMDZEZNwPbL-RnNTUBMCoBXk84EQ/s1600/Bao+Bei+1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=Bao+Bei+chinese&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=YeupU8mFHNProASN1IDYAw&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAg&biw=1280&bih=879#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=84qL0agyPSbsTM%253A%3BJcqCcGlWIsjtJM%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fc2.staticflickr.com%252F6%252F5453%252F6909517262_fca75a83a4_z.jpg%3Bhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.flickr.com%252Fphotos%252Fperfect-tommy%252F6909517262%252F%3B640%3B427" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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What do you think of Chinese fare?</div>
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Do you automatically think<a name='more'></a> of chicken chow-mein and sweet and sour pork, or how about an over the top 8 course dinner at a chandelier-filled restaurant, exclusively welcoming the richer-than-rich folk? Well, you're not alone as I too had pre-conceived ideas of Chinese fare which included either of the afore-mentioned experiences.<br /></div>
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Then all those past experiences are completely forgotten once you are introduced to <a href="http://bao-bei.ca/" target="_blank">Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie</a>, this restaurant still stays true to it's Sichuan-chinese/trendy Shanghai routes however by putting a spin on old classic asian dishes such as fried rice and crisp pork-belly while creating a restaurant environment that is cozy, unpretentious yet beautiful, this restaurant delivers a near perfect dining experience.</div>
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Our very generous friends treated us to this restaurant for our anniversary dinner celebration and we couldn't stop raving about it then and even now my mouth waters thinking about some of the dishes and cocktails we all generously imbibed in last Sunday evening.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxUtAtRruPSWQAUx-CniRMbG5eRoDp3TMhnKHuwdCyNkShng7554JsmFMlru15s-YZmros8WswGaGGMUibNHEuFCRv-6bz-FcKoI7fRCbjOaiV6BwQ0koTEQ47V0cDgLF4FKRezJeFk0/s1600/Family+dining+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxUtAtRruPSWQAUx-CniRMbG5eRoDp3TMhnKHuwdCyNkShng7554JsmFMlru15s-YZmros8WswGaGGMUibNHEuFCRv-6bz-FcKoI7fRCbjOaiV6BwQ0koTEQ47V0cDgLF4FKRezJeFk0/s1600/Family+dining+room.jpg" height="441" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThMdcQYlQlYZksnrbdtt_fPN4wpg9zb3p8d93rWiko_q041-xKmFy5_ExXDgGW0_0sN9mFHwieJKWSKQQXRV5FhZ7Je16P8Rsh5eBtY7P1UcLVGxV2Vpvc0vhaGnFMwO_MnliViC6hTw/s1600/Family+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThMdcQYlQlYZksnrbdtt_fPN4wpg9zb3p8d93rWiko_q041-xKmFy5_ExXDgGW0_0sN9mFHwieJKWSKQQXRV5FhZ7Je16P8Rsh5eBtY7P1UcLVGxV2Vpvc0vhaGnFMwO_MnliViC6hTw/s1600/Family+table.jpg" height="419" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/2014/04/01/seen-in-vancouver-491-10-essential-addresses-that-typify-todays-chinatown/#!prettyPhoto" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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I can't recommend the family dining table in the back enough. It was created to encourage a warm truly asian-inspired family dining experience and it really did. Seating between 8 - 12 people, the table comes with a $35 tasting menu that definitely fills many hungry appetites fully. The menu is chosen by the chef and this experience really demonstrated why sometimes we should all give up control to the professionals so that a truly perfect pairing of menu items can be enjoyed. Plus, this is the only table that will take reservations.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkiFYm8rT8BgtgVdHdRHb_NSkjqa9JNims6yQFjIZsrgQOaIL2M4fVxJVMbh0xnqoS1juaQ6es-yhhzNqMA-_PthjaI6miPeJRCwT-X7S_Kctze2EGU1BSiKr7hdYUnaewtU6CWKwW_Pw/s1600/fRIED+RICE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkiFYm8rT8BgtgVdHdRHb_NSkjqa9JNims6yQFjIZsrgQOaIL2M4fVxJVMbh0xnqoS1juaQ6es-yhhzNqMA-_PthjaI6miPeJRCwT-X7S_Kctze2EGU1BSiKr7hdYUnaewtU6CWKwW_Pw/s1600/fRIED+RICE.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/2014/04/01/seen-in-vancouver-491-10-essential-addresses-that-typify-todays-chinatown/#!prettyPhoto" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Yes, the definite hit of the night was their Kick A** Fried Rice. When a multitude of personalities, food allergies and food lovers get together, it can be difficult to please everyone however this dish definitely solved that problem for us. It's a truly authentic fried rice dish however I tasted hints of cinnamon and generous hits of basil, which did not overwhelm rather brought out the flavours of the succulent duck breast.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcea9IYKjiAauIO0SlK4hoYCz3QtplP8LcPmiSlh5dlKelxJlq1RO8aZYGVcXEQgKRdTVO1d6egH97wapkZi7PW2hhO7uq_CO7Vg-6sb71F24VUNAFlRGdXHEtYozM7BOoJJP83WKDTh8/s1600/mantou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcea9IYKjiAauIO0SlK4hoYCz3QtplP8LcPmiSlh5dlKelxJlq1RO8aZYGVcXEQgKRdTVO1d6egH97wapkZi7PW2hhO7uq_CO7Vg-6sb71F24VUNAFlRGdXHEtYozM7BOoJJP83WKDTh8/s1600/mantou.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/2014/04/01/seen-in-vancouver-491-10-essential-addresses-that-typify-todays-chinatown/#!prettyPhoto" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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The Mantou (a.k.a chinese steam buns) had the perfect amount of hoisin-type flavoured pork surrounded by a pillowy soft bun that just melted in our mouths when we bit into it. When topped off with green onions and chopped peanuts, it was the perfect blend of chewy, savoury and crunchy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF4XgnnoU7vETNy99OU4vc3SiqmzEPoHOU-4uedL8uoZFbSMJV46DzUKZ87ZqewoRs0y7UkyxJBP2ScSKQhfwiJMf2PiWPs_mtMkEK9FWwgK9Wt0S1dbrQc6kaltPrxAfoCxQlzoWaf4/s1600/cucumbers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF4XgnnoU7vETNy99OU4vc3SiqmzEPoHOU-4uedL8uoZFbSMJV46DzUKZ87ZqewoRs0y7UkyxJBP2ScSKQhfwiJMf2PiWPs_mtMkEK9FWwgK9Wt0S1dbrQc6kaltPrxAfoCxQlzoWaf4/s1600/cucumbers.jpg" height="497" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hiredbelly.com/perfect-pairings-german-riesling-and-more-rules-at-vancouvers-bao-bei/3282" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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To clean our palates yet keep things exciting, we had the Sichuan Cucumbers in a spicy viniagrette sauce. Although the cucumbers had been marinated they weren't overly soft, in fact with the right amount of kick from the vinegar along with a red pepper spice, it cleaned up quite nicely after overindulging in the above-mentioned richer items.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIEL4mXiSf9WTjfmo2dYasgydiSC0OcfQXKulZc2lQtW_fkw0PHNVOMk5l7MgbQqp3KaAuNmPoJfqxdCkEWwMk56nbkVi2b5r3NmmO-xPKTOJ4LYxDU5QJRjlS-h62ti_PDCZEX59s8Y/s1600/crispy+tofu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIEL4mXiSf9WTjfmo2dYasgydiSC0OcfQXKulZc2lQtW_fkw0PHNVOMk5l7MgbQqp3KaAuNmPoJfqxdCkEWwMk56nbkVi2b5r3NmmO-xPKTOJ4LYxDU5QJRjlS-h62ti_PDCZEX59s8Y/s1600/crispy+tofu.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.vancourier.com/vancouver-special/chinatown/chinatown-bao-bei-balances-old-and-new-1.808600" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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We now come to one of my favorite dishes of the night, it was the Shan Tofu or Bao Bei's own version of chickpea tofu. Silky and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside, perfectly coated on the outside with a very thin layer of crispiness that enhanced the combo of a potentially bland chickpea with overly earthy mushrooms, this dish only brought out the best in all those ingredients.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5m3DUI9cZoUsjSv8KH1qQy1njqlkHAFmhitAiH1jJKZ-Gfb1BV3oeq2Seb3IJjmHyT-EgKyRVbjMhx56zrYtg6FehAnPNMyMbr9EBmsYeroZmkziSvexd8x3OwFgTZDfcQJe3suqk0zs/s1600/cocktails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5m3DUI9cZoUsjSv8KH1qQy1njqlkHAFmhitAiH1jJKZ-Gfb1BV3oeq2Seb3IJjmHyT-EgKyRVbjMhx56zrYtg6FehAnPNMyMbr9EBmsYeroZmkziSvexd8x3OwFgTZDfcQJe3suqk0zs/s1600/cocktails.jpg" height="410" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.foodandtell.com/2010/01/21/bao-bei/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Finally, we mustn't forget the talented crew behind the cocktail bar, creating true apothecary drinks that again combine diverse ingredients to create exciting twists to old-fashioned classics. I had the Chino Margarita and I highly recommend you do as well! </div>
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And if you are still unsure, make sure to check out the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/14/travel/14hours.html?_r=1&pagewanted=2" target="_blank">NY Times</a>, the <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/restaurant-review-bao-bei/article4305549/" target="_blank">Globe and Mail</a> and the <a href="http://www.latimesmagazine.com/2011/10/northern-exposure-restaurants.html" target="_blank">LA Times</a>. From east-coast to west-coast everyone is raving about Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie and once you visit this restaurant, you too will understand why.</div>
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Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie</div>
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163 Keefer Street</div>
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Vancouver, B.C.</div>
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tel: (604) 688.0876</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-29018016316149831482014-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:002014-06-30T09:38:03.621-07:00Summer Lovin': Top 5 Stylish Bike Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20CVFMGm_Il6g-RdVuEcx4hLGi6Hq7-AkUqltFPaT9hZtT5OaLiBJ8pTHtocmfeN6PSfd9raDemxizc5c2g5LGrYtyp0s7CFkSwrYtlyOsWrsSqVk00PKFHL7OFsc-X7VeADWT9sY-BI/s1600/Clemence-Poesy-in-Glamour-UK-February-2012-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg20CVFMGm_Il6g-RdVuEcx4hLGi6Hq7-AkUqltFPaT9hZtT5OaLiBJ8pTHtocmfeN6PSfd9raDemxizc5c2g5LGrYtyp0s7CFkSwrYtlyOsWrsSqVk00PKFHL7OFsc-X7VeADWT9sY-BI/s1600/Clemence-Poesy-in-Glamour-UK-February-2012-8.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://backseatstylers.com/editorialsadcampaigns/clemence-poesy-in-glamour-uk-february-2012/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Happy Friday Everyone!<br />
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Summer is JUST around the corner, June 21st (as in tomorrow), and if you are anything like me, that day could not come any sooner.<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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There are so many great things about summer-time: gorgeous patios throughout Vancouver, cute summer dresses, fun cocktails and I'm sure you could add to the list of these items, as long as your arm. However, for the past couple years my all-time FAVORITE summer-time activity has and is, bike riding around town. My husband had been trying to convince me to get a bike since we first got married and my initial reaction was "um, NO, my head looks weird in a helmet and my butt always hurts for days after going for a bike ride". Does anyone else have the same problems as me?</div>
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Anyhow, my dear husband surprised me with the most stylist bike last year and I've never looked back, laughing at my previously entrenched bad attitude towards such a FANTASTIC activity while I ride freely around town these days, how silly we can all be at times!</div>
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I wanted to share 5 stylish tips I've learnt over the course of my so-called bike career as it is definitely possible to combine style and functionality to any bike ride.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeo4GPPqyJb4liSPhfQpPnjn3gPzamjdsGTm7WH599cqUiadGaBj_l_pZbxeIcKXpyYweF5Zbe8f0jQepoL-F2leEk9qrsAWYmy065WOCyGAyntZAsqGIfHp0ym_tnn1rT8dNllNTe4E/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHeo4GPPqyJb4liSPhfQpPnjn3gPzamjdsGTm7WH599cqUiadGaBj_l_pZbxeIcKXpyYweF5Zbe8f0jQepoL-F2leEk9qrsAWYmy065WOCyGAyntZAsqGIfHp0ym_tnn1rT8dNllNTe4E/s1600/photo+3.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/312015080405452375/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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The Brooks Saddle was invented back in 1866 in England with the following motto:</div>
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<em><strong>"We believe, and are convinced that all riders will agree, that a comfortable saddle is one of the greatest, if not the greatest asset to real pleasure cycling."</strong></em></div>
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After experiencing the B17 model, I have to whole-heartedly agree. I was warned by the wonderful guys at <a href="http://capsbicycleshop.com/" target="_blank">Cap's Bicycles</a> that there would be a "molding" period of about 3 - 4 rides but thankfully the saddle "molded" to my butt right away and the comfort of my rides are so amazing these days that I am able to go for 40 - 50 km rides without any discomfort on a regular basis. Not only are the saddles functional but STYLISH, and with such a storied history, how can you go wrong with such a purchase?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUvxZIVC9FvzfRf8u5IeuvnCaV6GXsGXx7eB1Nq2ocNj4ZfX3jhU_lo7DDr_ngC1gWH1WZSwTOff-b3GS631no9nRDsV_XxGnCExi6fqw5k3ZmC7wyQW-ITinJmJ0JmDuc-vMLLJMnFo/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUUvxZIVC9FvzfRf8u5IeuvnCaV6GXsGXx7eB1Nq2ocNj4ZfX3jhU_lo7DDr_ngC1gWH1WZSwTOff-b3GS631no9nRDsV_XxGnCExi6fqw5k3ZmC7wyQW-ITinJmJ0JmDuc-vMLLJMnFo/s1600/photo+1.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/198017714840258589/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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I never realized that there were 2 types of bike baskets, the permanent and the quick release. Let me explain the difference between the two types:</div>
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1. PERMANENT: The permanently mounted bike baskets are attached to the bike with bolt-on legs (as shown above). This allows you to carry a heavier load without compromising the basket or your headlights. Usually the permanent baskets only come in stainless steel/wire.</div>
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2. QUICK RELEASE: The quick release is attached to the bike with heavy-duty plastic bar mounts. The baskets can be released to take with you into the grocery store or whereever you need to go. Due to the baskets being mounted only on the bar, carry load is a maximum of 5 lbs. Usually the quick-release baskets come in various different materials such as wicker, wire, stainless steel, etc.</div>
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When I initially got my bike, I loved the look of the wicker baskets and still do, however I removed my quick release basket within a couple months because it couldn't carry the load I needed it to and it was affecting my headlights, plus I never really "released" the basket so the whole purpose was a wasted function for me. Since then, I've purchased the permanent style with bolt-on legs and have to admit I am DEFINITELY an advocate of this style. In Vancouver, it is not only expensive but hard to find this type, therefore my source is <a href="http://www.bikewagon.com/wald-135-bike-grocery-basket-silver#56158" target="_blank">The Bikewagon</a>, they are based in Utah, extremely reasonable and have excellent customer service and shipping terms.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQeSVToN-AC1GYBA9_UZakAQK-ZDdVfRBv6EdWYtJUMEkyyAY4kIv2Nn34JRtd9Jz9MnKx4KdFhB_OkY12KFwe_aVHN9TBL-ONC0EEEGV11WnbY5KUafEsqR2zAana1FjnqOUAgs6d0R8/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQeSVToN-AC1GYBA9_UZakAQK-ZDdVfRBv6EdWYtJUMEkyyAY4kIv2Nn34JRtd9Jz9MnKx4KdFhB_OkY12KFwe_aVHN9TBL-ONC0EEEGV11WnbY5KUafEsqR2zAana1FjnqOUAgs6d0R8/s1600/photo+(6).JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/43/e8/66/43e866e446bf7d3a682db1e0b5e5e827.jpg" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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One of the best decisions you can make to update any bike is to add some fun wheels. Not only are your options unlimited but it's a pretty inexpensive way of "personalizing" your ride.</div>
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I recently updated my classic black wheels to trendy cream wheels and I swear my bike looks sleeker and brings out the special features of my bike that much more! Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating but you get my drift right?</div>
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Some great resources for figuring out what would suit your bike is again <a href="http://capsbicycleshop.com/" target="_blank">Cap's Bicycles</a> in the tri-city areas, <a href="http://unionstreetcycle.ca/#sthash.cONOlXMR.dpbs" target="_blank">Union Street Cycle</a> in downtown Vancouver, and of course my favorite <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/AiriANaks/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qolcEicBn9Sjp4717pOr-te9Mo-whyphenhyphenXJdlyivZJL7QyvEUGM7gVSDF2DhyKH_utBKFHj_ybi5fG4YFWbBK1_OAemRl_gpkMpY6Q4o5khqM6sYcOscmrssj-Aw_Gk4rqQyLW-2Y1nmIg/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1qolcEicBn9Sjp4717pOr-te9Mo-whyphenhyphenXJdlyivZJL7QyvEUGM7gVSDF2DhyKH_utBKFHj_ybi5fG4YFWbBK1_OAemRl_gpkMpY6Q4o5khqM6sYcOscmrssj-Aw_Gk4rqQyLW-2Y1nmIg/s1600/photo+4.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/more-gadgets-for-cyclist/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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I was really torn on this one. You see, I believe a bike headlight is one of THE essential bike items for night-riding, however the majority of my bike-rides are done during the daytime - on the weekend so I realized that the bike bell has gotten a lot more use rather than my headlight during my bike rides. Why is this?</div>
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If I am riding on the street and passing a car that is parked, I always ring my bell a couple times so that they know I am coming up beside them, as well if there are pedestrians on the bike lanes I can "gently" ring my bell and they will move aside without any accidents occuring.</div>
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And "YES" how stylish is a bike bell while providing the functionality every bike rider needs!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkuAH2tgqWC8vT5FcGIfqWOJ_0wTKuNBIym0TXKxfP8lwnnnlQyHVD6f_NddFvSoNjMhr8e1PPXw5h30ygaz6vs4PwmmRUdAklFs9laW48EjJQ2WlOZ53A6yAHgrjkRx52jTuZw-Yfjw/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkuAH2tgqWC8vT5FcGIfqWOJ_0wTKuNBIym0TXKxfP8lwnnnlQyHVD6f_NddFvSoNjMhr8e1PPXw5h30ygaz6vs4PwmmRUdAklFs9laW48EjJQ2WlOZ53A6yAHgrjkRx52jTuZw-Yfjw/s1600/photo+2.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jenny.gr/odigiste-me-stil-to-podilato/#gallery/335483" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Okay, so I know for this "tip" I could get some very upset readers however I'm willing to take the heat, let me explain myself first, (disclaimer: all people under the age of 19 (Canadian legal age) should listen to their parents' decision on this!).</div>
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Instead of advocating, I am playing devil's advocate on this one. The reasons are many but one reason is, there are so many designated bike routes throughout the lower mainland which usually are completely separate from the road where cars are driving. As well, the Netherlands have one of the largest population of cyclists in the world and the choice to wear a helmet or not is up to them, you may ask <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/bikes/why-dutch-dont-wear-helmets.html" target="_blank">why the Dutch</a>?</div>
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To lighten up this "tip", one may feel much safer simply because <a href="http://grist.org/cities/do-helmets-really-keep-cyclists-safer/" target="_blank">they have long hair.....</a></div>
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Finally, this post is all about STYLE and unfortunately we all have to agree that helmets cannot possibly be put in that category so until Diane v. Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs or Tory Burch (hint, hint) comes out with a very stylish yet functional helmet, I say, <strong><em>"whatever suits your style"</em></strong>.</div>
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Okay, so there you have it, 5 of my top style tips for bike riding around town this summer.</div>
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TGIF!! </div>
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Will this weekend bring a ride or two your way?</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-11278963269892923252014-04-25T06:00:00.000-07:002014-06-25T15:42:29.556-07:00Friday Favorite: Portland<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-R1z1_ssZ6bkx76OauUwRNYv89ClDiHTThBIevgUDWXEwAnmmC6ZSGPSphORt9WBJ4j4s7BDLT_VMPjJHkU0HxD8IEA0kK-uODHjXu0Dw8M8edE1RZmmAb6ITB5seFlLvF7Cb4PkjonA/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-R1z1_ssZ6bkx76OauUwRNYv89ClDiHTThBIevgUDWXEwAnmmC6ZSGPSphORt9WBJ4j4s7BDLT_VMPjJHkU0HxD8IEA0kK-uODHjXu0Dw8M8edE1RZmmAb6ITB5seFlLvF7Cb4PkjonA/s1600/photo.JPG" /></a></div>
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Portland is one of those American cities that will leave you yearning for more, feeling as though a section was missed,<a name='more'></a> a restaurant not discovered and ultimately your gut reaction is that the sooner you return, the better it will be.<br /></div>
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Perhaps it is the walkability of the city, the never-ending choices of restaurants, the kitschy mixed in with the modern streamlined stores throughout the city, the close proximity to my Canadian home-base or simply because Portland is completely tax-free. Whatever the case may be, this past long weekend when I visited, the city did not disappoint and I can't WAIT to go back for another extended weekend stay.</div>
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Here are my top 3 favorite discoveries from my recent weekend away in Portland:</div>
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<strong>3. WORLD FOODS PORTLAND</strong><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQCmxfc0uVCq-_IsIlyWox7FCXnppR-JXpFbT2IoGOeGEtBUXsWN5Tl484esUMeAnIVIs67ThjtDq-C_waBBg6AUOvawghClMGiobf89euqxY46Yhb5c3oTGEgrkla4ya9xHkvmLZkZ8/s1600/IMG_4257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQCmxfc0uVCq-_IsIlyWox7FCXnppR-JXpFbT2IoGOeGEtBUXsWN5Tl484esUMeAnIVIs67ThjtDq-C_waBBg6AUOvawghClMGiobf89euqxY46Yhb5c3oTGEgrkla4ya9xHkvmLZkZ8/s1600/IMG_4257.JPG" /></a></div>
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Looks a bit like a wine bar right? Well, don't let looks deceive you because World Foods Portland is in fact a family-owned grocery store. Specializing in unique products from around the world. I purchased two different types of olive oils, each was processed in the original <a href="http://www.canaanfairtrade.com/" target="_blank">Palestinian</a> method, however one was fruity and the other robust (can't wait to indulge with a proper baguette and a glass of wine). In addition to their amazing on-the-shelf products, they also have a proper wine/beer bar right in the grocery store so after shopping for unique delicacies, you can sit down and have a glass of wine or a pint of Portland's famous micro-brewed beer and then continue discovering the rest of the Pearl district.</div>
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<a href="http://www.worldfoodsportland.com/foods.html" target="_blank">World Foods Portland</a></div>
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830 NW Everett Street</div>
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7 AM - 9 PM daily</div>
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<strong>2. CANOE</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlf7ch8o4z1lLHUo8wa-5suhTqSm53TJ7Sc4FicojiVVN2UGf0b3yCHpwE4-Y_2qfGSzln_WohGZ-4tCmMMMB6iUWhErlLY6hUYqhgiFZdftoBGErFQ1kT7G-EVFrykQ7NQobGxCk1r60/s1600/canoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlf7ch8o4z1lLHUo8wa-5suhTqSm53TJ7Sc4FicojiVVN2UGf0b3yCHpwE4-Y_2qfGSzln_WohGZ-4tCmMMMB6iUWhErlLY6hUYqhgiFZdftoBGErFQ1kT7G-EVFrykQ7NQobGxCk1r60/s1600/canoe.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong></strong> A shop that specializes in small home-goods that are appealing in both design and functionality. Canoe prides itself on sourcing products from around the world that are iconic, almost art-like pieces that you wouldn't think twice about using as a decorative piece throughout your home. The <a href="https://www.canoeonline.net/shop/inspect/tube-wringer" target="_blank">Tube Wringer</a> was one item that may have been purchased along with the <a href="https://www.canoeonline.net/shop/inspect/chemex-collection" target="_blank">Chemex coffee maker.</a> I am <em>THRILLED</em> by both items as they were necessary, desperately needing to be replaced in our home. To add another element to the Canoe shopping experience is the fact that it is in an up and coming area of downtown Portland which is considered by some locals to be the new Pearl District, walking around I couldn't agree more as there were some fantastic clothing and home shops mixed in with random pubs and restaurants that will need to be discovered on my next visit.<br />
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<a href="https://www.canoeonline.net/" target="_blank">Canoe</a><br />
1136 SW Alder<br />
10 AM - 6 PM Tuesday - Saturday<br />
11 AM - 5 PM Sunday<br />
Closed Monday<br />
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<strong></strong> <strong>1. BLUE STAR DONUTS</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SgessBOEI9lIfXCGeNU1j63YaDXTmh0_AP_LUveuNzvgR4ZaUqjiVPrVjPoWKSHVebaLwHD9ZZ_ibO7MQgAdFyjNcKvoYVc58g7K41f9qnMtgBZHzXZbhcj3EDMqmKL9br0k8hUmq8w/s1600/donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0SgessBOEI9lIfXCGeNU1j63YaDXTmh0_AP_LUveuNzvgR4ZaUqjiVPrVjPoWKSHVebaLwHD9ZZ_ibO7MQgAdFyjNcKvoYVc58g7K41f9qnMtgBZHzXZbhcj3EDMqmKL9br0k8hUmq8w/s1600/donuts.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYQCmxfc0uVCq-_IsIlyWox7FCXnppR-JXpFbT2IoGOeGEtBUXsWN5Tl484esUMeAnIVIs67ThjtDq-C_waBBg6AUOvawghClMGiobf89euqxY46Yhb5c3oTGEgrkla4ya9xHkvmLZkZ8/s1600/IMG_4257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Okay, so I can see you rolling your eyes as I know it may seem strange to you that my no. 1 pick for Portland this weekend is a donut shop however, I would like to defend myself by providing the following information about this amazing donut shop. Their motto is simple, "Quality over Quantity"; as someone who has come to understand that quality and freshness is the answer to "what makes one dish taste better than another?", this donut shop really proves this to be true. All organic ingredients from the flour to the milk to the eggs, they explain exactly where they source their ingredients (all local might I add) and to top it off, they cook all of their donuts in rice oil. And if you're still not convinced, then the answer may simply be that by 2 PM on a Sunday afternoon, all the donuts were completely sold out, enough said!</div>
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<a href="http://www.bluestardonuts.com/" target="_blank">Blue Star Donuts</a></div>
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1237 SW Washington Street</div>
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7 AM - sold-out Monday - Friday</div>
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8 AM - sold-out Sunday</div>
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The wishlist for my next Portland weekend will definitely include the following:</div>
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Brunch at <a href="http://tastyntasty.com/alder/brunch.html" target="_blank">Tasty n' Alder</a></div>
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Shopping in <a href="http://www.shopvintageportland.com/.a/6a00e54fe7762588330167670b1d58970b-popup" target="_blank">SE Portland</a></div>
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Splurging at <a href="http://www.thenines.com/" target="_blank">The Nines</a></div>
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And, these are the sites I like to visit before going to any new or revisited city: <a href="http://www.refinery29.com/search?q=portland&search=" target="_blank">Refinery29</a>, <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/search?query=portland&search_cat=all" target="_blank">Travel & Leisure Magazine</a>, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/pacific-northwest/portland" target="_blank">Lonely Planet</a> and of course I am a crazy advocate of visiting random blogs and so for this weekend I visited <a href="http://pdxbloggers.com/portland-bloggers/portland-bloggers-master-list/" target="_blank">this site</a> to find some fresh, new ideas. </div>
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Happy Friday!!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-62315138343523294282014-03-14T06:00:00.000-07:002014-04-24T22:47:05.937-07:00Friday Favorite: Boyfriend Jeans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlb2GewBZhTZR7aFk7z6qu8nfolAJkxgdUy3Ev-42yLfVtORjjEazmVkkLUP0SgGPKk8xXbosbORRGNDeSBmMIYX8QT8SLvrBAwMZxHoGA5Phb53Rvzj4U6dOs6OusWZIdWGUi4IRctek/s1600/pink-peonies-fashion-blog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlb2GewBZhTZR7aFk7z6qu8nfolAJkxgdUy3Ev-42yLfVtORjjEazmVkkLUP0SgGPKk8xXbosbORRGNDeSBmMIYX8QT8SLvrBAwMZxHoGA5Phb53Rvzj4U6dOs6OusWZIdWGUi4IRctek/s1600/pink-peonies-fashion-blog4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pinkpeonies.com/dressed-casual/" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Boyfriend jeans have been a style I've been trying to master for the last few seasons. The boyfriend jeans I have previously tried on were usually too baggy, too boy-ish<a name='more'></a> or just plain expensive for a style I'm not too sure is going to last very long.<br /></div>
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Enter <a href="http://www.target.ca/en/" target="_blank">Target</a>, I was on my lunchbreak this past week and made a quick stop for new ponytail elastics, well if you are like me, when it comes to Target, I have a plan to purchase one item but come out with a bag full of a <em>few</em> items, well this last visit was really exciting because I finally found myself a pair of boyfriend jeans that I absolutely ADORE!! And the price point was beyond reasonable, $29.99!!</div>
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If you know me well, my style is pure high-low: more expensive investment pieces with less expensive "trendy" items, so here is how I styled it for casual friday at work today, what do you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eYNj4fks4FW5iXx5XTHwKPDe31WrmCLpWmwDp_lK6vZzbNK0QiGhOVaza3jAGysqWfsjni5CwqHdqG0DdnZPQxgvJC4GJqdZ4EmPGg8iwNler9eV0Wk1yjjWDeGS_gM49UCNer3CuDQ/s1600/Boyfriend+jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eYNj4fks4FW5iXx5XTHwKPDe31WrmCLpWmwDp_lK6vZzbNK0QiGhOVaza3jAGysqWfsjni5CwqHdqG0DdnZPQxgvJC4GJqdZ4EmPGg8iwNler9eV0Wk1yjjWDeGS_gM49UCNer3CuDQ/s1600/Boyfriend+jeans.jpg" /></a></div>
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Jeans - <a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-womens-destructed-skinny-denim-assorted-colors/-/A-14629654" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Blouse -<a href="http://us.aritzia.com/dario-blouse/51038.html?dwvar_51038_color=7275#start=18" target="_blank"> here</a></div>
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Heels - <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/Sale/AllProducts/PRD~57046/57046.jsp?Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=heels&isFromSearch=true&isSaleItem=true&isNewSearch=true" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Watch - <a href="http://www.stuhrling.com/Mens/Classic/Cuvette/140A.01.html" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Belt - <a href="http://www.michaelkors.com/p/MICHAEL-Michael-Kors-MICHAEL-Michael-Kors-Kenton-Leopard-Print-Belt-ACCESSORIES/prod8480001/" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Bag - <a href="http://www.louisvuitton.ca/front/#/eng_CA/Collections/Women/Handbags" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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Go check out Target for these incredibly stylish, comfortable and <em>cheap</em> boyfriend jeans.</div>
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TGIF!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-48769335003937673262014-02-10T14:12:00.001-08:002014-03-14T10:14:30.604-07:00Book Review: Cook's Illustrated (The Science of Good Cooking)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHgVaBu0GA0HtFksg0bwda0Xm9V2bTQ0kscJFywhfRSgw9k1-Iiy0gfHf0SBdEqARiSdUFmUfcm97OpN1Du30uUj5lZp5s76yru_YgGEI28hMNbVgMhjNa_KFLwG2l4clEC_L7hPCG8w/s1600/cooks+illustrated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNHgVaBu0GA0HtFksg0bwda0Xm9V2bTQ0kscJFywhfRSgw9k1-Iiy0gfHf0SBdEqARiSdUFmUfcm97OpN1Du30uUj5lZp5s76yru_YgGEI28hMNbVgMhjNa_KFLwG2l4clEC_L7hPCG8w/s1600/cooks+illustrated.jpg" /></a></div>
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With so many changes happening recently, life has been pretty chaotic, however, before many of those changes occurred I had purchased the <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Science-Good-Cooking-Americas-Kitchen/dp/1933615982/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1392066580&sr=8-2&keywords=Cooks+illustrated" target="_blank">Cook's Illustrated - The Science of Good Cooking</a><a name='more'></a> one day while I was on my lunchbreak. I had recently heard so much about how world-class chefs use science/chemistry to create perfect dishes consistently and although I understood why this might be the case, I couldn't wrap my head around HOW this would work. So after purchasing my new book I started reading the Introduction and pretty soon I was hooked. <br /></div>
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You might agree with me that with the huge influx of food and cooking blogs out there, the classic cookbooks have become almost as extinct as dinosaurs, however this particular book is completely different from any cookbook, food blog or cooking show because it teaches us the reason behind our scrambled eggs being tasteless and rubbery or why the cake we baked turned out as hard as a rock even though we followed the recipe perfectly. The reason is simple: <strong>Science</strong>.</div>
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The following are just a few examples of why I can't put this book down and quite simply, why I refer to this book everytime I decide to try a new recipe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDN2S39MjffhtPVja_6c2Xb9dhvGnfLFQ3HAHOMDuDME1b9_-2MjAFCiLXyE9iqhTQ1iJaWWPi8WxHSNcB75gRMWkKZcfsityJS3nsJ66QLY69A-8-r82mDgVrehUyjxOmHvr2rTwKkU/s1600/salt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDN2S39MjffhtPVja_6c2Xb9dhvGnfLFQ3HAHOMDuDME1b9_-2MjAFCiLXyE9iqhTQ1iJaWWPi8WxHSNcB75gRMWkKZcfsityJS3nsJ66QLY69A-8-r82mDgVrehUyjxOmHvr2rTwKkU/s1600/salt.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>SALT</u></strong></div>
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Before you "poo-poo" me for talking about salt, let me explain. Yes, I've always known salt is what brings flavour to all our favorite dishes, but do you know why? It is simply because it is a nutrient our body cannot live without. It can change the molecular makeup of food and because it occurs naturally, it is one of the most essential items in our kitchen. Do you want to know what to look out for when purchasing salt or the reason why sea salt may be better than table salt (and "no" it is not because one is completely natural), then this book will explain it perfectly for you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyr4heaTtl2CcnBs4QuR6yrCWNd43iLNbSZDQwW1nWMKoDcZZPeRHuy30Hj-Em-Imf6kbpE7y-0eIeolcM2pE7vV2Lb0gX1VSeeLnjqs9iY5oW1ReAY9RQmbRN-erC_UrJUyLVZXZrMo/s1600/eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyr4heaTtl2CcnBs4QuR6yrCWNd43iLNbSZDQwW1nWMKoDcZZPeRHuy30Hj-Em-Imf6kbpE7y-0eIeolcM2pE7vV2Lb0gX1VSeeLnjqs9iY5oW1ReAY9RQmbRN-erC_UrJUyLVZXZrMo/s1600/eggs.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>EGGS</u></strong><br />
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One of the ingredients our fridge is always stocked with is eggs, maybe it's our extremely busy lifestyle or perhaps because eggs are my husband and I's last minute go-to item when we are stuck for something to cook with or eat that is relatively healthy. Cook's Illustrated explains how to make perfect eggs, the reason? The electrical charge on the protein molecules of eggs. It sounds more complicated than it really is, just read page 169 of the book and you will have perfectly fluffy eggs every time. I've tested it out over a dozen times and each time, our eggs are fluffy and extremely tasty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNyHq7F-9_UHzXljzw8QN1rbNI6rXKZN70z8UA4cIpSuBWPzBzhK1BtId45I0P9ktvDPLqLIdZwBCWOJZVR04-9ol2wSdxqVZujmBC9w1e-IHqKqLYfDwlRYWvnpg3HjreZ5q5SZYqmM/s1600/flour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNyHq7F-9_UHzXljzw8QN1rbNI6rXKZN70z8UA4cIpSuBWPzBzhK1BtId45I0P9ktvDPLqLIdZwBCWOJZVR04-9ol2wSdxqVZujmBC9w1e-IHqKqLYfDwlRYWvnpg3HjreZ5q5SZYqmM/s1600/flour.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>MEASURING</u></strong><br />
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Have you ever followed the steps of a double-moist chocolate cake perfectly however, the result is less than double-moist, more like a heavy brick? The reason may be the WAY you are measuring. Cook's Illustrated explains that the way each of us measures dry ingredients can be a difference of almost 13% more or less than the person beside us. How does this work? Read page 2 and it will all make sense.<br />
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I can't seem to put this book down! If you enjoy cooking, baking and understanding the reasons why the first chocolate cake came out perfectly moist but the second one was a bit heavier, then Cook's Illustrated - The Science of Good Cooking is the book for you.<br />
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And, NO, this post was not in any way sponsored!<br />
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Happy Cooking!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKDN2S39MjffhtPVja_6c2Xb9dhvGnfLFQ3HAHOMDuDME1b9_-2MjAFCiLXyE9iqhTQ1iJaWWPi8WxHSNcB75gRMWkKZcfsityJS3nsJ66QLY69A-8-r82mDgVrehUyjxOmHvr2rTwKkU/s1600/salt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-394871834881425122013-12-16T00:27:00.001-08:002014-06-18T13:43:50.345-07:00Winter Spinach Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAnchBLDeySGEfjA1eQ0pKmLI3nMAXVTwd91PwAZT2HMB0DrdTWpmfHUA52VQ-JTQyskl7v1_vVSP_AZ5iWLdR0Dig5zZowV9WUhxrjuaNQoq9PeblYeeFY_fMVnh3IqXs2EbTx9g0ug/s1600/squash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAnchBLDeySGEfjA1eQ0pKmLI3nMAXVTwd91PwAZT2HMB0DrdTWpmfHUA52VQ-JTQyskl7v1_vVSP_AZ5iWLdR0Dig5zZowV9WUhxrjuaNQoq9PeblYeeFY_fMVnh3IqXs2EbTx9g0ug/s1600/squash.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi friends,</div>
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Did you have a good weekend? Did you end up indulging a bit <em>too</em> much the last couple days? If so, here is a great recipe to kick start your week on a high and healthy note</div>
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I made this winter salad on Sunday night when we were invited over to friends for dinner. It involves all the fresh ingredients available at this time of year, such as winter squash and mandarin oranges, and because of all the healthy bits and pieces, it will keep us energized and satisfied for the upcoming week. Everyone at the dinner who tried it only gave positive feedback so I figured it was definitely worth sharing. Plus, it was a combined effort between myself and my husband so not only is this recipe healthy but will keep things healthy between you and your loved ones because it's just one more thing you can add to your "shared hobby" list.</div>
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If you are looking for new ways to try old favorites like butternut squash and spinach salad, make sure to try this recipe because you won't be disappointed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdetkuu7dNC1yO13QhxL2SwuMce8Ojs47vJwZ2TawxaBAsTB9QWyeCruIkS7JUfEdO2UvDDvCICpNTeMhqs5R8adbrIEwx1Mclakc_YojyJFlI-VDIKw5_QvUVfz-bl39uYqZoXs_-lk/s1600/salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpdetkuu7dNC1yO13QhxL2SwuMce8Ojs47vJwZ2TawxaBAsTB9QWyeCruIkS7JUfEdO2UvDDvCICpNTeMhqs5R8adbrIEwx1Mclakc_YojyJFlI-VDIKw5_QvUVfz-bl39uYqZoXs_-lk/s1600/salad.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Winter Spinach Salad</u></strong></div>
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<em>Salad:</em></div>
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6 - 7 cups fresh raw spinach</div>
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3 - 4 mandarin oranges (peeled and the "whites veins" removed)</div>
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3 pound butternut squash</div>
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1 large purple onion</div>
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2 cups pecans (halved)</div>
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1/2 cup maple syrup</div>
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Honey Goat Cheese (optional)</div>
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<em>Dressing:</em></div>
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1/2 cup olive oil</div>
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5 garlic cloves (minced)</div>
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1/4 cup aged balsamic vinegar</div>
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2 teaspoons sugar</div>
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1 juice of lemon</div>
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salt</div>
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pepper</div>
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<em>Preparation:</em></div>
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Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees C'.</div>
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Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1 inch cubes and lay the cubes onto a baking sheet, single file, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Once the oven has fully heated roast the butternut squash for 30 minutes.</div>
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Add the pecans to a non-stick pan along with the maple syrup. Cook on medium-high heat until the pecans give off the scent of slightly burnt candy. Remove the pecans from the heat. Let it rest for a minute and then transfer the pecans to a plate and let the nuts fully cool.</div>
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Chop the purple onions into extremely thin rings.</div>
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Make the dressing by combining all the ingredients into a cup, as pictured below and whisking with either a fork or whisk until all the ingredients have combined. Set aside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25X6H5FJYesZC4RCv5zoYo0PMW0U1UHXKij7AG0EDAD9bKfyY9Guv5_Cz7oPn8IYwnt4tD9wx823jsiC2C7SaofX2ehTJ_cMQ3ME4W64CPBrwOyntMrmurGWApzyvvU2TBCgRyIlR9U4/s1600/sheldon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25X6H5FJYesZC4RCv5zoYo0PMW0U1UHXKij7AG0EDAD9bKfyY9Guv5_Cz7oPn8IYwnt4tD9wx823jsiC2C7SaofX2ehTJ_cMQ3ME4W64CPBrwOyntMrmurGWApzyvvU2TBCgRyIlR9U4/s1600/sheldon.jpg" /></a></div>
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Take the butternut squash out of the oven once fully roasted and allow to cool.</div>
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Cut each individual section of the mandarin orange into half pieces.</div>
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Once all of the ingredients have cooled, you are ready to assemble your salad. Follow the pictures below to assemble the perfect Winter Spinach Salad. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWC0sp9tTYwRwJuNugXqCxAbU3KV7oaVsp_hn_h7mgfLHDcjWjN-oZ2pWMsZtT3C80NRButXsbb0rXKiGbC0xafhKnaijh4siScVtduKjCOhYEOHyIuONJNjdJOVmzq9TPtso17Pcl1g/s1600/full+salad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfWC0sp9tTYwRwJuNugXqCxAbU3KV7oaVsp_hn_h7mgfLHDcjWjN-oZ2pWMsZtT3C80NRButXsbb0rXKiGbC0xafhKnaijh4siScVtduKjCOhYEOHyIuONJNjdJOVmzq9TPtso17Pcl1g/s1600/full+salad.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here are some added benefits of incorporating winter squash into your salads:</div>
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<strong>Carotene:</strong> Beneficial at preventing cancer and lung disease</div>
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<strong>Vitamin C:</strong> Boosts immune system (perfect for cold winter days)</div>
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<strong>Coumarins:</strong> Protects against heart disease, lowers blood pressure and alleviates poor circulation</div>
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<u><em>Added Tip:</em></u></div>
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Make sure to roast your winter squash in the oven because incorporating any type of water by way of boiling the squash will take away many of its nutritional content.</div>
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Here's to a Happy and <em>Healthy</em> Week!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGrdBjCggy_q0WLWgxzo1rbvAfl0ZPBeX8xA_Jy42FgHTut0mi8pAuYBD6jDVD7DpneA3fby-xGZYlusL1rxZg5pmV7RbIWGLLCq-89ImdVLi2inizSris2HLUjLanQc778Y2NnDhYKM/s1600/salad+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGrdBjCggy_q0WLWgxzo1rbvAfl0ZPBeX8xA_Jy42FgHTut0mi8pAuYBD6jDVD7DpneA3fby-xGZYlusL1rxZg5pmV7RbIWGLLCq-89ImdVLi2inizSris2HLUjLanQc778Y2NnDhYKM/s1600/salad+final.jpg" /></a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-30136041661250255192013-12-13T06:00:00.000-08:002013-12-16T00:28:00.831-08:00Friday Favorite: Resort Wear (Whistler-Style)<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj668x7ck_vPAvHT7eu4CAIgaxwRs_QNmKgu9HNSq8kAae1tx5HTxa8xZKue-yX_z-ubPQBSCXDeS5-nyc_uCranKG5Lv8xdhMcgj0eKLG_mo_kWQfXq-jPqDzTd3UU12CzbBaijpL4A7s/s1600/photo+(93).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj668x7ck_vPAvHT7eu4CAIgaxwRs_QNmKgu9HNSq8kAae1tx5HTxa8xZKue-yX_z-ubPQBSCXDeS5-nyc_uCranKG5Lv8xdhMcgj0eKLG_mo_kWQfXq-jPqDzTd3UU12CzbBaijpL4A7s/s1600/photo+(93).JPG" /></a></div>
<a href="http://en.bogner.com/" target="_blank"> VIA</a></div>
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Living on the west coast of Canada is pretty amazing because we really do get to experience all four seasons to the full. Summer-time involves lots of outdoor bike riding, patio cocktails and beach-time; as autumn rolls into winter, our sun-drenched skin is definitely ready to cover up in layers of over-sized chunky sweaters and boots. <a name='more'></a>Along with the great seasonal change in fashion comes one of the highlights of living on the west coast, having a world-renowned snow resort literally a short 1.5 hour drive away. We're talking Whistler, British Columbia. The resort that is well-known for breeding the next generation of world-class winter athletes.<br /></div>
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Most times we will drive up the day of and come home after a long day of riding but this past weekend my husband and I decided that we would stay overnight in the village so that we could have apres cocktails, hop in the hotel pool to soothe our sore muscles and just have some quality down-time as a couple.</div>
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Maybe because it was the first ride of the season or the fact that we were staying at <a href="http://www.fourseasons.com/whistler/" target="_blank">an amazing hotel</a>, whatever the case was, the weekend was fun, relaxing and romantic (a perfect couple's weekend getaway). Not surprisingly, I was equally as excited to plan my wardrobe for the couple days we were up there and the following are a few items that were put to good use and which I would never leave the house with the next time I head up to Whistler.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW1jMokLVKaHAItJWRyYozpIQGTjnEB6nnEJQVf2h3RgkOldo-AvocdCbKXhOoSsrTJR7FaWqHLGEqTK9NqyfEIw3sW6BWrj4tmcUkofzt-XU9IosNvF5I-ZrBtQ7h8Pv6RpI6rcsuMk/s1600/Snowboarding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBW1jMokLVKaHAItJWRyYozpIQGTjnEB6nnEJQVf2h3RgkOldo-AvocdCbKXhOoSsrTJR7FaWqHLGEqTK9NqyfEIw3sW6BWrj4tmcUkofzt-XU9IosNvF5I-ZrBtQ7h8Pv6RpI6rcsuMk/s1600/Snowboarding.jpg" /></a></div>
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Snowboard (<a href="http://www.evo.com/snowboards/burton-feelgood-flying-v-snowboard-womens.aspx" target="_blank">Burton Feel-good Flying V</a>) // Bindings (<a href="http://www.evo.com/snowboard-bindings/burton-cartel.aspx#image=68739/332700/burton-cartel-snowboard-bindings-2014-sky-and-earth-front.jpg" target="_blank">Burton Cartel</a>) // Pants (<a href="http://www.the-house.com/bo4obw02sg6zzbonfirepants.html" target="_blank">Bonfire Optic Balance</a>) // Gloves (<a href="http://www.rei.com/product/855269/burton-gore-tex-gloves-womens" target="_blank">Burton Gore-tex</a>) // Goggles (<a href="http://www.surfboardsetc.com/moredetail/1006808/Dragon_DX_Snow_Goggles_White_Gold_Gold_Ionized.html" target="_blank">Dragon DX Snow</a>) // Boots (<a href="http://ca.burton.com/default/felix-snowboard-boot/W14-10625100.html?start=2&cgid=womens-boots" target="_blank">Burton Felix</a>) // Jacket (<a href="http://www.trusnow.com/Bonfire-Echo-Snowboard-Jacket---Women's.asp" target="_blank">Bonfire Echo</a>)</div>
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My riding gear consists of the basics, however when I purchase items for snowboarding I bite the bullet and purchase quality well-known brands because after riding for over 20 years, I realize that the reason why certain brands are virtually synonymous with one particular sport is because the brand has invested the funds to test and produce the best products in the business, plus, once you purchase the item you're good to go for the next few years without having to update. My favorite brands are Burton (hard-gear), Bonfire (soft-gear) and Dragon (accessories) and recently discovered the <a href="http://www.marks.com/shop/en/marks-marksdefaultsalescatalog/t-max-heat-thermal-top-32372" target="_blank">T-Max Thermal Gear</a> as an underlayer; conditions on the mountain last weekend dropped to below -15 degrees C' and I didn't feel cold once, amazing!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyC1ZpQx-UDReWnABy4rkp-9L0u3nVwLWmTBV4kM2c3mQJCoByTc2tzlPiuYtYMFBoEZgYxz5aMkX8z8Y9MJ1Z5PwT900Z0gz0mbHu_uEfiG8wi9vO23NFBsQlHnyuT-CQpTBy_xrt_Lw/s1600/Saturday+Night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyC1ZpQx-UDReWnABy4rkp-9L0u3nVwLWmTBV4kM2c3mQJCoByTc2tzlPiuYtYMFBoEZgYxz5aMkX8z8Y9MJ1Z5PwT900Z0gz0mbHu_uEfiG8wi9vO23NFBsQlHnyuT-CQpTBy_xrt_Lw/s1600/Saturday+Night.jpg" /></a></div>
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Coat (<a href="http://www.asos.com/Minkpink/Minkpink-Faux-Fur-Coat-With-PU-Panel/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3021388&SearchQuery=faux%20fur%20coat&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">MinkPink Faux Fur Coat</a>) // Shirt (<a href="http://aritzia.com/TNA-BANFF-SHIRT/48497006,default,pd.html" target="_blank">TNA Plaid Banff</a>) // Jeans (<a href="http://www.joesjeans.com/Skinny-Ankle/5696063615785135683/Product?sku=CDCGLA5968-25-GLN" target="_blank">Joe Skinny Ankle</a>) // Credit/Bank Card Holder (<a href="http://www.louisvuitton.ca/front/eng_CA/Homepage#/eng_CA/Collections/Women/Small-Leather-Goods/products/Key-Pouch-MONOGRAM-M62650" target="_blank">Louis Vuitton Key Pouch</a>) // Watch (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Stuhrling-Original-768-01-Classic-Quartz/dp/B00E4NHIRM/ref=sr_1_12?m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&s=watches&ie=UTF8&qid=1386878749&sr=1-12" target="_blank">Stuhrling Classic Ascot</a>) // Belt (<a href="http://www.shopbop.com/maya-waist-metal-tip-belt/vp/v=1/1597465255.htm?fm=search-shopbysize" target="_blank">Linea Pelle Maya Waist</a>)</div>
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Saturday evening, we went for dinner at a fantastic sushi joint (<a href="http://www.sushivillage.com/" target="_blank">Sushi Village</a>) and afterwards, walked back to the hotel in the snow so comfortable walking shoes were essential. I discovered that Geox has completely updated their line of boots and am currently loving the motorcycle boots they have available. They are extremely comfortable, have great grip and most importantly, they look fantastic. These <a href="http://www.geox.com/Devil-Ankle-Boots/D34M2A00049C9999,en,pd.html?start=32&cgid=women-shoes-booties" target="_blank">Geox Motorcycle Boot</a> were the ones I purchased and have been wearing non-stop recently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwQ-K3akFpPiwih22at1i2PZKOc2z-95ZBRRJY1YduC2si7o1SfeETtgdJ9a8l3Ngptz0rdgQsLpPEbXOhvRzpt6HClLhKq98YXBpKh5hatrExrH8YHMf4LGnnGK7E9lv9vWlNrOCTc8/s1600/Sunday+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUwQ-K3akFpPiwih22at1i2PZKOc2z-95ZBRRJY1YduC2si7o1SfeETtgdJ9a8l3Ngptz0rdgQsLpPEbXOhvRzpt6HClLhKq98YXBpKh5hatrExrH8YHMf4LGnnGK7E9lv9vWlNrOCTc8/s1600/Sunday+morning.jpg" /></a></div>
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Bag (<a href="http://www.louisvuitton.ca/front/#/eng_CA/Collections/Women/Handbags/products/Neverfull-MM-DAMIER-AZUR-N51107" target="_blank">Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM</a>) // Sunglasses (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/ROBERTO-CAVALLI-Onfale-Gunmetal-Sunglasses/sim/B001I0XKDA/2" target="_blank">Roberto Cavalli Onfale</a>) // Watch (see above) // Sweater (<a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_special_sizes/xxl/Sweaters/PRDOVR~04278/04278.jsp" target="_blank">J Crew Elbow Patch</a>) // Toque (<a href="http://aritzia.com/TNA-ALPS-HAT/37319,default,pd.html?dwvar_37319_color=1274#start=3" target="_blank">TNA Alps Hat</a>) // Boots (see above) // Jeans (see above)</div>
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Sunday involved lazing around, taking advantage of late check-out and then lunch at <a href="http://www.dubhlinngate.com/" target="_blank">Dubh-Linn Gate</a>. It was a bright, sunny Sunday so we sat on their patio and people-watched. The sun is always very deceiving, even though sitting on the patio was really nice, it was COLD. Thankfully, my faux-fur boucle jacket by <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/laundry-by-shelli-segal-boucle-faux-fur-jacket/3536079" target="_blank">Shelli Segal (Laundry)</a>, kept me cozy and warm. My jacket is another item that I have been wearing non-stop since the weather has gotten chilly. Whether to work or play, this jacket never lets me down and goes with absolutely every outfit I wear. Unfortunately my jacket is completely sold out but I did find a similar version from <a href="http://www.asos.com/Minkpink/Minkpink-Faux-Fur-Coat-With-PU-Panel/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3021388&SearchQuery=faux%20fur%20coat&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">Minkpink, which you can find here</a>.</div>
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Being able to embrace the casual yet equally stylish fashion of the winter ski-resort last weekend was so much fun and I can't wait to repeat it soon.</div>
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TGIF!! <br />
What are your plans for <u><em>this</em></u> weekend?<br />
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PS. Coming very soon is a brief travel guide to gorgeous Whistler Resort, stay tuned.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-41410500159083077332013-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:002013-12-13T08:54:56.700-08:00Friday Favorite: Save/Splurge Vacations<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfq6cEUnnTxBlrQzCqXBwQ6GewBUs51iWkV5nkAyASGWGKhUf44RAuBNQy10p6Y4NFHp8z8KzyKFaBGp_de79kRG2XZ6-zDm1mwZOQmAPn8mYCRAl8V4mhfnj26bdcSwLPcA4H3FwJv0c/s1600/travel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfq6cEUnnTxBlrQzCqXBwQ6GewBUs51iWkV5nkAyASGWGKhUf44RAuBNQy10p6Y4NFHp8z8KzyKFaBGp_de79kRG2XZ6-zDm1mwZOQmAPn8mYCRAl8V4mhfnj26bdcSwLPcA4H3FwJv0c/s1600/travel.jpg" /></a></div>
Do you like to save or splurge when it comes to vacation?</div>
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How about if you could save AND splurge at the same time?<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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My husband and I love to travel, unfortunately, we do not have a money tree in our backyard to facilitate this hobby so we came up with a few simple ways to save yet still splurge when it comes to our travels and vacations. Here are our top 4 ways we enjoy our vacations to the fullest yet come home to a healthy bank account, without having to stay in hostels or cheap hotels.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw_TrnLM8d0twLAQr6f6W48lUig-slMjbUvVv3rREaxL4Z8qVIBaxxqbY37WWHltzwBhAUydgJAxlJarQAV7D5eO8A5AG2jkSFy0ut_0DroPqxOTwmgQy_p-rl4STrPozD3wxKk1vJx8/s1600/travel+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw_TrnLM8d0twLAQr6f6W48lUig-slMjbUvVv3rREaxL4Z8qVIBaxxqbY37WWHltzwBhAUydgJAxlJarQAV7D5eO8A5AG2jkSFy0ut_0DroPqxOTwmgQy_p-rl4STrPozD3wxKk1vJx8/s1600/travel+4.jpg" /></a></div>
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<u><strong>AIRMILES</strong></u></div>
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I love airmiles because it allows you live your regular life but collect points in the meantime for an added benefit. We collect points through the <a href="https://www.airmiles.ca/arrow/Home" target="_blank">Airmiles</a> program which is offered through Safeway and various other merchants. In vacationing around the United States, we have never paid for our car rental and have even been able to receive day riding passes to world renowned ski resorts like Whistler/Blackcomb for free (that's currently a $98 savings per day), just by having our card swiped each time we grocery shop.</div>
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In addition to regular airmiles, we also collect points through our airline carrier. The best rewards for airlines are the companies that are affiliated under an umbrella, such as <a href="http://www.staralliance.com/en/" target="_blank">Star Alliance</a>. This way you can fly with Air Canada, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, South African Airways, in addition to many others, all fully supported by the Star Alliance umbrella. I've lost count of the times I have been upgraded to business just by being a loyal United Mileage Plus member.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTfGkGf9Zu0eLOASLHiPZenxw6oOjcD3bboLhKZLZJ0ldqXL6GhCth0itIpCXoL9aJBUwVVd-UWeR_eGKZaCbTLUJCEwxto0LMIUoZIS5UhdU38jYaBDGID3EcMqZtK33kDS0GFl5hcY/s1600/travel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTfGkGf9Zu0eLOASLHiPZenxw6oOjcD3bboLhKZLZJ0ldqXL6GhCth0itIpCXoL9aJBUwVVd-UWeR_eGKZaCbTLUJCEwxto0LMIUoZIS5UhdU38jYaBDGID3EcMqZtK33kDS0GFl5hcY/s1600/travel+2.jpg" /></a><br />
<strong><u>GROUPON</u></strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.groupon.com/app/subscriptions/new_zip?" target="_blank">Groupon</a> is a very interesting concept. Companies sign up to advertise discounts on services through Groupon and as long as a certain number of purchases are completed, the Groupon is completely valid. You may already have bought Groupons for local esthetic, dining and recreational services however, we have started using Groupon for hotel or resort stays. Initially I was curiously tepid to try, however the last few trips to the United States have yielded excellent results. Plus, companies that are in smaller yet very interesting locations such as Temecula, Ojai or Pismo Beach tend to advertise as foreigners may not know about those locales. Just make sure to do your research through <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.ca/" target="_blank">tripadvisor</a> or other reputable resources before completing your purchase and be aware of blackout dates, which are all posted clearly on the sale. If an advertised sale is completely false or grossly inaccurate, Groupon will also refund your money as long as you provide accurate information supporting your claim. </div>
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Our recent trip to Palm Springs included a one night stay at Churon Winery and then a balloon ride with <a href="http://www.sunriseballoons.com/" target="_blank">Sunrise Balloons in Temecula</a>, for a fraction of the original cost; imagine floating 4,000 feet above sea level, looking past the desert to the Pacific Ocean, all while sipping a glass of champagne. This was all courtesy of Groupon and it was quite frankly, one of the highlights of our trip<strong><u>.</u></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcDAW7cM0pU4ddbQOTaolmdxYQRJtC87ZbfOs6xjCNhpnH1FL0MBJYH58jjpkJJ06mZJg5SIYE8Iv_yeGbtFFm_WkD3IRPU8Z6FshXxIfQuLD8HJPLWK9s2SausfLL9pMujXPwgSyDsA/s1600/travel+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcDAW7cM0pU4ddbQOTaolmdxYQRJtC87ZbfOs6xjCNhpnH1FL0MBJYH58jjpkJJ06mZJg5SIYE8Iv_yeGbtFFm_WkD3IRPU8Z6FshXxIfQuLD8HJPLWK9s2SausfLL9pMujXPwgSyDsA/s1600/travel+3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>HAPPY HOURS</u></strong></div>
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Now this third point is more for Canadians travelling to the United States. The drinking laws are much more flexible in the United States and one of the benefits is the amazing happy hour deals you will find throughout the various States. From outstanding seafood at <a href="http://www.schwartzbros.com/daniels-broiler/daniels-lake-union/" target="_blank">Daniel's Broiler and Steakhouse</a> in Seattle to the unending options throughout <a href="http://www.happyhourguidebook.com/Top10_7S69.html" target="_blank">Portland, Oregon</a> right into California and all other States in the United States.</div>
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We love Happy Hours for the simple fact that we can try various options in one evening without breaking the bank account or having to be tied down to a 3 course meal at an over-hyped restaurant with terrible service. Most restaurants that offer these deals provide the exact same food as on their regular dinner menu. It just involves eating a little bit earlier but most times when you are travelling, the evenings will be spent on other pursuits such as a show, a local attraction or if you are like us, just kicking your feet up on the hotel's extremely comfortable bed, recovering from the day; so those early dinners/happy hours are perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbnPbb2UZ04O6feuZlizsXsgcVX9Bt21NUd6JtfloNE2UvmuJNK2mbKXwhhuJFW7zR1qMVlWCy4LiZzUy-qezcWnU_U7F-RIo-lQnsS_VqvuqTe50Xd1bqIsyO8_EJag5mHBgT_zhxes/s1600/trravel+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbnPbb2UZ04O6feuZlizsXsgcVX9Bt21NUd6JtfloNE2UvmuJNK2mbKXwhhuJFW7zR1qMVlWCy4LiZzUy-qezcWnU_U7F-RIo-lQnsS_VqvuqTe50Xd1bqIsyO8_EJag5mHBgT_zhxes/s1600/trravel+4.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong><u>SMART TIME-OFF</u></strong></div>
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This is a simple use of math. If you book your flight out of town on a Friday late evening, then you can still work that day, it will not require an extra vacation day from the office AND your weekends<br />
can be added as bonus days that again will not eat into your vacation days. Some flights such as the Vancouver to New York leg provide red-eye flights that leave around midnight and arrive in the early morning. This way, you won't even have to book an extra night in a hotel, just check your bags into the hotel in the morning upon arrival, go for breakfast, explore the city for a few hours and by the time you've done that, your check-in time should quickly be approaching.</div>
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The 4 points above have helped us tremendously while enjoying one of our favorite hobbies. Yes, it may involve some forethought, research and potentially some risks but isn't that why we travel, for the adventure?</div>
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Happy travels and most importantly, Happy Friday!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-7396604054876022912013-11-14T12:30:00.000-08:002013-12-05T14:08:23.352-08:00Lunch Break: Isabel Marant for H&M<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75OjpraWM_zBtGjnaT2wgjcg11M5D1Ehcl0sF2i5o4eKha5GEPMg0vOYmtuXzgsm0YPQKpoj2fBtcfT0DSRU_qAYCjfDiyTR3Px0IhKPCsNTQKpPSuoRCorHEhCNNM4fgFbtP0UJ7qOc/s1600/Isabel-Marant-x-HM-Main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75OjpraWM_zBtGjnaT2wgjcg11M5D1Ehcl0sF2i5o4eKha5GEPMg0vOYmtuXzgsm0YPQKpoj2fBtcfT0DSRU_qAYCjfDiyTR3Px0IhKPCsNTQKpPSuoRCorHEhCNNM4fgFbtP0UJ7qOc/s1600/Isabel-Marant-x-HM-Main.jpg" /></a></div>
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Today was the launch of the much anticipated collaboration of the french fashion house Isabel Marant with H&M. Usually collaborations initially excite me but then fizzle out because they end up being over the top and not really every-day worthy wear. In addition, the quality of collaborations tend to be much less than the original designer would deem worthy and leave you scratching your head wondering "what happened???".<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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I decided to check out H&M at Pacific Centre on my lunch break. I really didn't have crazy expectations because I figured it would be extremely picked over or just plan "cheap" looking. Well Isabel Marant, you deserve 10 out of 10 because not only did you stick to your usual style but for the quality, the prices are extremely reasonable. Not only were there a few good designs left over but each piece was well-made and completely worthy for every-day wear. I ended up picking up the <a href="http://www.hm.com/ca/isabel-marant#item/6103_SL_W_47" target="_blank">Waxed Biker Pants</a>, I absolutely love them and can't wait to rock them tomorrow at the office for casual friday.</div>
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The pants feel very well made, have amazing detail and even though it does not have belt-loops, I will just take them into the tailor to have them added in the future. I am usually a size 2 - 4 but I was able to purchase the size 6 (only one left in the entire store) and although a bigger size than usual, they fit me perfectly. The in-seam is probably a 30 inch as I usually wear a 32 inch and the pants just came to my ankles but are perfect for my 5 foot 2 inch frame and will be great to wear with boots or heels. With runners they will even be better because the bottoms won't scrunch up needlessly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvrYmu7sY66uADHohgfUGj8oMc2JahX_qSgjFxozSDciprdRYyRlgQ6DPk2k5-c86wfEF3OCL91fooUyHA0loxK0BI0KVQD_GQAQ8FrFA4LIyix5gBFLnQMZUCYUKvnduPESPkIvQcbc/s1600/$_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvrYmu7sY66uADHohgfUGj8oMc2JahX_qSgjFxozSDciprdRYyRlgQ6DPk2k5-c86wfEF3OCL91fooUyHA0loxK0BI0KVQD_GQAQ8FrFA4LIyix5gBFLnQMZUCYUKvnduPESPkIvQcbc/s640/$_12.jpg" title="Isabel Marant Waxed Biker Pants for H&M" width="547" /></a></div>
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Go check the collaboration out either in store or <a href="http://www.hm.com/ca/isabel-marant#item/6103_SL_W_47" target="_blank">online</a>, you won't be disappointed and the added bonus is that H&M has a 7 day full refund policy so if you can't find something right away, keep an eye out for it in the next couple days, perhaps someone might get retail-therapy guilt and return some great pieces that they initially purchased.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-66630350950781755842013-11-08T06:00:00.001-08:002013-12-05T14:09:14.397-08:00Friday Favorite: Dramatic Powder Bathrooms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZdU-WKIBPKeINn_oiII2MsI-usvh7n7OkkCygqHdyVhbuLpuWBVCe5YKtOwMIOhx3bGftQzWv49oufjXa3YHctMtNIHfbpGNPRIxjciQamy-gos9yZJTCROljTMppgwPgWFh7FYitUk/s1600/Thad+Hayes+powder+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZdU-WKIBPKeINn_oiII2MsI-usvh7n7OkkCygqHdyVhbuLpuWBVCe5YKtOwMIOhx3bGftQzWv49oufjXa3YHctMtNIHfbpGNPRIxjciQamy-gos9yZJTCROljTMppgwPgWFh7FYitUk/s1600/Thad+Hayes+powder+room.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://louloupear.blogspot.ca/2010_09_01_archive.html" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Let's talk about powder bathrooms for a minute.</div>
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It's interesting how our mind tells us that small rooms should use light colors because it will open and brighten up the space, however, this rule should be broken when we are thinking about powder bathrooms. <a name='more'></a>The powder bathroom is one room in the house which should be dramatic. Usually most powder rooms are tiny so this is our chance to play with dramatic colors, exciting lights and over the top accessories. Why not make our powder bathrooms POP so that when someone uses the room, they will want to admire the space and enjoy their time there, despite the size.<br /></div>
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We are currently searching for ideas to finish off our powder room and these images just got me so excited to get started on this next project.<br />
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These are my personal favorites.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_UEI-YHrsjjRfibshm5NxDnGZfJ9g4bbsVpwyMO6Izo73jEB8iD6FiexqzwjGlTjiaA_Oa9_g8Rh0Gdwm3l7o3Dxa9JjpT1_UeerB4v08s2VqNMrQkW0h3d51ix6lyjan4RvAGZ_OhM/s1600/darkPowderRoom_Graydon_DE09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_UEI-YHrsjjRfibshm5NxDnGZfJ9g4bbsVpwyMO6Izo73jEB8iD6FiexqzwjGlTjiaA_Oa9_g8Rh0Gdwm3l7o3Dxa9JjpT1_UeerB4v08s2VqNMrQkW0h3d51ix6lyjan4RvAGZ_OhM/s1600/darkPowderRoom_Graydon_DE09.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/dark-condo-powder-room" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qwK0HTsGOVZymBL3HMcSJnW6dQ783IQXw6fBTlhUVX6w01EOWuFnilr3zaE9d_XP0D25pKXQ4tVjd6gbP3lnbV6PutnRENsm1ohhQ-eC9g3NshfF2F9IviBRKGI3DgFYcJ4i07TzcDs/s1600/port_vimg_bath_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qwK0HTsGOVZymBL3HMcSJnW6dQ783IQXw6fBTlhUVX6w01EOWuFnilr3zaE9d_XP0D25pKXQ4tVjd6gbP3lnbV6PutnRENsm1ohhQ-eC9g3NshfF2F9IviBRKGI3DgFYcJ4i07TzcDs/s1600/port_vimg_bath_14.jpg" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://www.glamaison.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/port_vimg_bath_14.jpg" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPElJW-7tIVcp7-CXy4iX3K8O2_TgzhYgmqQlJf-yR185Q-7KG0DbBVDFltJofGIuXhhrFvnGPWTQV5u2RmtY04Odddngy8A2e2KlJaniWg8K-UaLR6uOCJ3R_OHPU5DHm3iMhjmVk3zI/s1600/3-bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPElJW-7tIVcp7-CXy4iX3K8O2_TgzhYgmqQlJf-yR185Q-7KG0DbBVDFltJofGIuXhhrFvnGPWTQV5u2RmtY04Odddngy8A2e2KlJaniWg8K-UaLR6uOCJ3R_OHPU5DHm3iMhjmVk3zI/s1600/3-bathroom.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://theenchantedhome.blogspot.ca/2011/04/spaces-that-wow-part-ii.html" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq8YYpwTPTOQCrjZ5_MHNmgjeI5AEQbbMRBMWTYB-kGHdyMm05ucT_zbHTsJDLEp6VZn6EVhGnxCQzY3dNQXZbuPApIATTAUmvEppRky81tGKue8OQLqdMUDCo4YoBM3He-tMuv1W0SNw/s1600/2-apt-with-lsd-alina-cho-DSC-7381_113734683875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3_cOBmXpcPEo5_T9ohKVVO9B7fJmKsaOv7_XbKmO0uJ_2zo2vsBU7iahO0xMwlwfnXR3LR5IHqsTkizZJyIKLyfRAh2mpnr7YxI1V8RTitPPsVG76-kk2I8Kja6ZwwVRBKEOPZKLIfY/s1600/53AC1ECCA7D09BE2A1DABE7A16884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3_cOBmXpcPEo5_T9ohKVVO9B7fJmKsaOv7_XbKmO0uJ_2zo2vsBU7iahO0xMwlwfnXR3LR5IHqsTkizZJyIKLyfRAh2mpnr7YxI1V8RTitPPsVG76-kk2I8Kja6ZwwVRBKEOPZKLIfY/s1600/53AC1ECCA7D09BE2A1DABE7A16884.jpg" /></a> </div>
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<a href="http://carriesdesignmusings.blogspot.ca/2011/06/koi-story.html" target="_blank">VIA</a></div>
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Now we just have to figure out how to combine beautiful koi wallpaper with gorgeous dark paint, is that even possible?</div>
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Are you more of a dark, light, wallpapered, panelled or textured kind of person?</div>
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Would you use gold, silver, brass or copper hardware?</div>
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Would you stick to classic accessories that never go out of style or would you experiment with unlikely pieces that work in the space?</div>
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Please share!</div>
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Happy Friday!!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-81256458197031779352013-11-04T06:00:00.000-08:002013-12-05T14:09:46.040-08:00DIY: Striped Feature Wall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXW2symnC6pxbbr6CMEpQdk3IUBqmvJUyx8wp5_01nUAf99EM81egzesILjCH2wxHTNTCnzaPMTwgzgsKfv3czbN2fB2ZETvxgNXtl8m-SiBJNh4mtKox7lrNg7i2vExLBFpwJknowiA/s1600/vignette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXW2symnC6pxbbr6CMEpQdk3IUBqmvJUyx8wp5_01nUAf99EM81egzesILjCH2wxHTNTCnzaPMTwgzgsKfv3czbN2fB2ZETvxgNXtl8m-SiBJNh4mtKox7lrNg7i2vExLBFpwJknowiA/s1600/vignette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXW2symnC6pxbbr6CMEpQdk3IUBqmvJUyx8wp5_01nUAf99EM81egzesILjCH2wxHTNTCnzaPMTwgzgsKfv3czbN2fB2ZETvxgNXtl8m-SiBJNh4mtKox7lrNg7i2vExLBFpwJknowiA/s1600/vignette.jpg" /></a></div>
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What do you think of a striped feature wall in your living area?</div>
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Personally, I have always been a fan and so a while back, my husband and I finally got around to doing a striped wall on our main living floor. We find it so amusing how developers will install doors in the most random places. <a name='more'></a>In our case, the developer had installed a powder room which of course required a door, but then, the hot water tank was installed under our stairs; beside the powder bathroom, the problem with this was that now we had 2 doors in a wall that was approximately 8.5 feet high by 10 feet wide. Not a ton of space and quite frankly, a major eyesore for the most part. So, we decided to do the feature wall on that exact side as we figured if we drew the attention to the stripes, the doors would not necessarily be the first thing people would notice or comment on.<br />
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We are happy to announce that our plan worked. Whenever our friends and family come over, they comment on the striped wall and I really can't remember the last time the subject of the random doors ever being discussed.<br />
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For this project, we used the following items:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrgCNvLC2xANHI12o8X5VVmWK8h3MOR4GOk0yd7rCYch_-F_n440MVXBNCygFgcn6_xE6SDVM1YhjPmQIfj20OPp7SYqt6dAsQmReUj6ZasflFHWgVt2GBJ7aPLJX8uBgHhpW4lpiqyo/s1600/what+you+need+for+a+gallery+wall+paint+job.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrgCNvLC2xANHI12o8X5VVmWK8h3MOR4GOk0yd7rCYch_-F_n440MVXBNCygFgcn6_xE6SDVM1YhjPmQIfj20OPp7SYqt6dAsQmReUj6ZasflFHWgVt2GBJ7aPLJX8uBgHhpW4lpiqyo/s1600/what+you+need+for+a+gallery+wall+paint+job.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUBx489-oI9pEoByhhNtRIUl3Ws3wWEkvOtlRnrs-socNrrphvOVrXkHCdznmhyphenhyphenegClnmYdxCLsos_S0kQBS-iQEWvddFaYcLQI4-lbfCt_FYwGAXLwPvNAQh6i6NJt8A_Apdp4JWcwF8/s1600/frogtape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> Frogtape was our lifesaver for this project. We used both the regular frogtape and the delicate surface frogtape shown above but we really didn't notice any difference in the sharpness of lines with the "delicate surface" frogtape. Neither our local Home Depot nor Rona carried the "delicate surface" tape so when we ran out we just decided to take the risk and use the extra roll of regular frogtape that was sitting around and thankfully it turned out fantastic.</div>
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The paint we used was Farrow & Ball in Skimming Stone which is my favorite paint brand. One of the only places that carries Farrow & Ball in the lower mainland of Vancouver is <a data-mce-href="http://www.kerrisdalelumber.com/" href="http://www.kerrisdalelumber.com/" target="_blank">Kerrisdale Lumber</a> and I highly recommend Kerrisdale Lumber for their amazing sales people and quality of service. They are hands-down the best hardware store in Vancouver. Plus, you can pick up sample pots of Farrow & Ball in every color that is in stock for $7 which is perfect if you are trying to figure out the color or like us, to complete the project with touch-ups at the end.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZV34m_hQX4AW3YToV6F3OxMRWgHpcPlHux1A4ShsnhsYReF-365tU-YU3Z9MQ5wLEpXFhCak-nDuZGF1-nQcN9DRTp080kYWdTOWAxecwpU9bT5S_CUgQ_tBV3iK0X-tMFR9tvjKerM/s1600/full+length.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZV34m_hQX4AW3YToV6F3OxMRWgHpcPlHux1A4ShsnhsYReF-365tU-YU3Z9MQ5wLEpXFhCak-nDuZGF1-nQcN9DRTp080kYWdTOWAxecwpU9bT5S_CUgQ_tBV3iK0X-tMFR9tvjKerM/s1600/full+length.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEXW2symnC6pxbbr6CMEpQdk3IUBqmvJUyx8wp5_01nUAf99EM81egzesILjCH2wxHTNTCnzaPMTwgzgsKfv3czbN2fB2ZETvxgNXtl8m-SiBJNh4mtKox7lrNg7i2vExLBFpwJknowiA/s1600/vignette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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Our stripes look like 2 different colors but it is all Skimming Stone, the trick to this is to use a flat beside a high-gloss, the base is flat emulsion (2% shine) and the stripes are the highest gloss available in the color (it's technically for baseboards and doors but we used it for the wall and it turned out just fine). The ratio we used was a 10 inch stripe sandwiched between 7.5 inch base stripes and then 5 inch stripes sandwiched between 7.5 inch base stripes to give it more depth and interest. The combination of different width of stripes and the flat/high gloss paint in the same color really gives our living area more depth and warmth to our home now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMNZJp4FqOkkItk2cwCGR_H6zK0iEN9tHKoGCBL2HFllJ98p2VwCWvs2yDPZEJzPbcp-X-Rs8IhuxQzH1jwKFupuU9vLiQynprdzlKPkyt2k7WQjiBVm9xf5iFcYbGmoKyIcfS4lTmpA/s1600/centre.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMNZJp4FqOkkItk2cwCGR_H6zK0iEN9tHKoGCBL2HFllJ98p2VwCWvs2yDPZEJzPbcp-X-Rs8IhuxQzH1jwKFupuU9vLiQynprdzlKPkyt2k7WQjiBVm9xf5iFcYbGmoKyIcfS4lTmpA/s1600/centre.jpg" /></a></div>
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We started our stripes in the centre of the wall so in case of any discrepancies in measurements or as we quickly found out, not perfectly straight walls and ceilings in our home, the lines at the top and bottom of the wall (where it's the least visible) would take the hit for any small mis-measurements.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOJgIEHz8NBbsoPOUAYZgXs532lo2OMqfYe_M-3Y5UWQyqTSgKBeB97i2ke_lFy3P5WdxQyFc_mNVnPr9fvDRzg7M0Ex3itleFotzynmQ9SSkPSllnLjiuiFqfxrl8v1e-wYR6KZ35mjw/s1600/Paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOJgIEHz8NBbsoPOUAYZgXs532lo2OMqfYe_M-3Y5UWQyqTSgKBeB97i2ke_lFy3P5WdxQyFc_mNVnPr9fvDRzg7M0Ex3itleFotzynmQ9SSkPSllnLjiuiFqfxrl8v1e-wYR6KZ35mjw/s1600/Paint.jpg" /></a><br />
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We marked off which sides of the tape to paint. Trust me, when all the tape is up, it is extremely confusing so marking it off as you tape is a great solution. And then we painted, painted and painted some more.<br />
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After some sweat and random unintelligent words being thrown around, our project was finally complete. Despite some hostility and frustration, this DIY was completely worth it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIxnSvuxt_jWSMTERxLrF2Yhqubpt29s0g_AClLnWZ6AVGttPQtbaMjZvO4aI0KAESSydsObYzoP96G8RWZrmepjcjyWx49oLL2YoxHFvIb72ww2q-kcsynj-rN6lEEaWUzQB37SPWuk/s1600/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTIxnSvuxt_jWSMTERxLrF2Yhqubpt29s0g_AClLnWZ6AVGttPQtbaMjZvO4aI0KAESSydsObYzoP96G8RWZrmepjcjyWx49oLL2YoxHFvIb72ww2q-kcsynj-rN6lEEaWUzQB37SPWuk/s1600/front.jpg" /></a></div>
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Even though this project might bring out some negative energy in your house, temporarily, it is so fulfilling and worth it in the long run that I hope you can try it someday soon.<br />
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Happy DIYing!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-47600969786996790452013-11-01T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:10:27.393-08:00Friday Favorite: 10 Must-Brings for Palm Springs<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8JxB0gAa7S8ZEZvfIFKogt7Z7Pzdt9YSC_MLtEdqWadQ9ZggRZvqE_DtOMxPrftC9x2kda1bNcKnyFqpE08EYWz2u-jI_VLZd70_26ulouCO4pE4_-Wk_EJcOEk7q1V0UCs-cX8Dk10/s1600/top+10+pieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8JxB0gAa7S8ZEZvfIFKogt7Z7Pzdt9YSC_MLtEdqWadQ9ZggRZvqE_DtOMxPrftC9x2kda1bNcKnyFqpE08EYWz2u-jI_VLZd70_26ulouCO4pE4_-Wk_EJcOEk7q1V0UCs-cX8Dk10/s1600/top+10+pieces.jpg" /></a></div>
1. <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/clothing-427/tops-443/embroidered-bralet-2305549?siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-Yp_WQu_uTvgEHGiBM_s26Q&cmpid=ukls_deeplink&_$ja=tsid:19906|prd:Hy3bqNL2jtQ" target="_blank">Classic White Tank</a> // 2. <a href="http://www.profilefashion.com/new-arrivals/for-her/multicoloured-graphic-floral-print-safety-pin-dress.html?source=webgains&siteid=61259" target="_blank">Floral printed mod-dress</a> // 3. <a href="http://us.asos.com/countryid/2/Steve-Madden-Buddies-Stud-Gladiator-Sandals/10s2nm/?iid=2873708&utm_source=Affiliate&utm_medium=LinkShare&utm_content=USNetwork.1&utm_campaign=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&cvosrc=Affiliate.LinkShare.Hy3bqNL2jtQ&link=10&promo=296269&source=linkshare&MID=35719&affid=2135&WT.tsrc=Affiliate&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-gumdXs4JhHAkGlW0KRSm1w" target="_blank">Gladiator Sandals</a> // 4. <a href="http://www.riverisland.com/women/t-shirts--vests--sweats/plain-t-shirts--vests/Black-cross-back-swing-cami-top-647456?mid=38432&cur=GBP&cmpid=af_Linkshare_UK_Hy3bqNL2jtQ&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-9tNrg_Bl48v2t1Eyvankog" target="_blank">Simple Black Tank Top</a> // 5. <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc&ProductID=2055869411&VariantID=&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-W9KtwAx9aUlJgFZW7ou4iA&ls_affid=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&utm_campaign=Hy3bqNL2jtQ&utm_source=affiliatetraction&utm_medium=ls" target="_blank">Fedora Sun Hat</a> // 6. <a href="http://www.matchesfashion.com/product/170972" target="_blank">Maxi Skirt</a> // 7. <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2013/10/lunch-break-special-j-crew-sale.html" target="_blank">Casual Day Purse</a> // 8. <a href="http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/women/designer-see-by-chloe-wedge-sandal-item-10337660.aspx" target="_blank">Cork Wedges</a> // 9. <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/440-envelope-clutch-diane-von/vp/v=1/1572998740.htm?folderID=2534374302145746&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=15201" target="_blank">Evening Clutch</a> // 10. <a href="http://www.theoutnet.com/product/192229?cm_mmc=LinkshareUS-_-Hy3bqNL2jtQ-_-Custom-_-LinkBuilder&siteID=Hy3bqNL2jtQ-.KYNlwe7MScrplpKjvBmpw" target="_blank">Bright Shorts</a><br />
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We've vacationed in Palm Springs multiple times and I always find it interesting that although I bring a suitcase full of clothes and shoes, I end up only using approximately 10 items, on rotation, throughout my whole entire vacation. I'm not sure about you but I find as I start packing I add items that I feel I "just might" need, or that 3rd pair of heels "just in case" I get sick of the other 2 pairs during a one week period.<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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This time around, I've decided to stick to strictly 10 items, minus accessories, swimwear and workout gear, this keeps things very simple and gives me more room to actually purchase some great pieces in a shopping destination like Palm Springs, without having to lug home another cheap suitcase that will be donated to goodwill as soon as I return home. As you can see, I chose each piece specifically because it could work dressed up or down, worn with loads of accessories or simply by itself.</div>
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Here is a quick sample of how 4 of those 10 pieces (my favorites) could potentially be rotated.</div>
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<strong><u>THE MAXI SKIRT:</u></strong></div>
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I was debating on my maxi dress or maxi skirt, the maxi skirt won over only because it is so versatile, it can be worn casually with a white tank top and gladiator sandals, whilst shopping; or can be dressed up with a fitted black tank top, great gold accessories and wedge heels.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAru0W1jBDZ2oO4QyWUEIcdwnH4VJbqhGQphriQqAv2iee5ZgHZpQOijBKf9snGOhWNlbY53X8ZyCW24kAQ9rxtRlgbJAK5jHU2Ty50goX91WYFmgoGKIPbtq6YujF5BMCocvPl_2bWk/s1600/maxi+skirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGAru0W1jBDZ2oO4QyWUEIcdwnH4VJbqhGQphriQqAv2iee5ZgHZpQOijBKf9snGOhWNlbY53X8ZyCW24kAQ9rxtRlgbJAK5jHU2Ty50goX91WYFmgoGKIPbtq6YujF5BMCocvPl_2bWk/s1600/maxi+skirt.jpg" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>THE BRIGHT MOD DRESS</u></strong><br />
Surprisingly, despite the initial fancy feel of this item, the bright mod dress can work for day-time or evening. It really depends on what you decide to accessorize it with. It can work with wedges for the evening or flats for the daytime. The perfect vacation dress.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ciuW0YA6Oc9jdTq6KWpWoe18qASPD13YOmhEHfRTYbjB-AspvDX9BxBUGrSu205PbVmUNLxYFS5Dj64bTDpx1vP4JKyYp5-KG1H27ZXtIx4zArlJdVtIGOBAZ0fp0CVABIE2cPhtmkM/s1600/mod+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ciuW0YA6Oc9jdTq6KWpWoe18qASPD13YOmhEHfRTYbjB-AspvDX9BxBUGrSu205PbVmUNLxYFS5Dj64bTDpx1vP4JKyYp5-KG1H27ZXtIx4zArlJdVtIGOBAZ0fp0CVABIE2cPhtmkM/s1600/mod+dress.jpg" /></a><br />
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<strong><u>THE WHITE TANK TOP</u></strong></div>
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A white tank top is a no-brainer. In the desert heat, a crisp, white tank top in a natural fiber such as cotton or silk will be a life-saver. So many options when it comes to something so basic, while never tiring of the item.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBCrSyBMOZZDsoW5VXJ1IHxkDIykSNzWQQm0q1Bho3bo_hyphenhyphenYecrTT78YhEUkhTDsZriruKVTkRHzxGn9Rmg0uwwNzf3tlM9uKNGve-HiGcmFZ60YRiRc70adqOcJjEabKrfXHLQ0mYWA/s1600/WHITE+TANK+TOP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5WZnn7M2QQZEkd_75IZvQBYXQphE9F3a1OSY-wh7YH9BNMnalaYRR8wJGgoxCOtwsBZPYD1Rtx7PXk4NrfrBCUfNUFhoxY54rX09UlkexYptBvKEsZ1gVcL6VBH6oFh0k-kdipwkHj8/s1600/WHITE+TANK+TOP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR5WZnn7M2QQZEkd_75IZvQBYXQphE9F3a1OSY-wh7YH9BNMnalaYRR8wJGgoxCOtwsBZPYD1Rtx7PXk4NrfrBCUfNUFhoxY54rX09UlkexYptBvKEsZ1gVcL6VBH6oFh0k-kdipwkHj8/s1600/WHITE+TANK+TOP.jpg" /></a> </div>
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<strong><u>THE BRIGHT SHORTS</u></strong></div>
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Bright shorts epitomize all things retro and 50's-inspired, which is what Palm Springs is all about. Bright shorts in a light fabric, such as silk, can be playful in the pool as it will dry very quickly, or it can be taken out for lunch with a great pair of neutral wedges.<br />
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It feels wonderful to have a paired down yet fully functional suitcase that is prepared for any activity that comes up. Sometimes simple really is best. I would love to know how all of you pack for your sun vacations. Please share.<br />
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Well, I'm officially off to the land of heat and relaxation, really could not come at a better time. Of course, I'll be posting daily to my Instagram feed so please don't hesitate to follow along!<br />
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As always, thank you so much for visiting and Happy Friday! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-9740660933312222592013-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:10:41.846-08:00Health: The Everyday Green Smoothie<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Happy Monday and hope you had a great weekend! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Since our Palm Springs holiday is quickly approaching, one way I've been getting myself bikini ready is by consuming the <a href="http://kimberlysnyder.net/blog/ggs/#i.1yte4qu2lfl2" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Glowing Green Smoothie by Kimberly Synder</span></a> (a.k.a GGS). I was introduced to the GGS by my sister and it's really the most amazing smoothie. I did put a bit of my own twist to it and replaced the banana with a papaya and couldn't be happier with this recent change.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Now the papaya is one fruit that has been around for centuries, however for some reason, when it comes to the modern-day smoothie, the papaya fruit seems to get left in the wayside. I can personally attest to this because my last-minute resort for a healthy smoothie is the local Jugo Juice in the Bentall Tower, and for some reason none of their smoothies feature papaya and in fact the Juice shop does not seem to even carry the fruit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Green smoothies are one of the best options for your body when you are trying to kick it back into shape and although the color might turn you off initially, as it did me, once you actually take a sip, you won't even notice there are enough greens to cover your daily required intake. </span><span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">I love everything about the GGS, and although Kimberly Synder's original recipe calls for a banana, the papaya's flavour is amazing. While doing some research I found out the following about this amazing fruit.</span></div>
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<u><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;"><a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=47" target="_blank">The Papaya:</a></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Vitamin A - Beautiful Skin & Great Vision</span><br />
Vitamin C - Prevents Wrinkles</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Potassium - Lowers Blood Pressure</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">Fibre - Builds Muscle</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdt41_zA30goHQghrWVpijuxOvrNwg6rujdN6QJ5jaVfshZ7AKebgcojKCrz7c08xmeAz5WKOrwroRQKKLxsV9FiLFPVW3vuWk2m6N6gHYfXW5rBR6_y0x5pvoL_7s1qF6Lr43Msza7Fw/s1600/papaya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdt41_zA30goHQghrWVpijuxOvrNwg6rujdN6QJ5jaVfshZ7AKebgcojKCrz7c08xmeAz5WKOrwroRQKKLxsV9FiLFPVW3vuWk2m6N6gHYfXW5rBR6_y0x5pvoL_7s1qF6Lr43Msza7Fw/s640/papaya.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Happy Monkey', cursive;">So go ahead and drink your greens and while you're at it, why not reach for one of the healthiest fruits out there.</span></div>
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I love the mason jars at <a href="http://www.daisocanada.com/" target="_blank">Daiso Richmond</a> because it fits 2 servings of GGS perfectly, so you only have to blend once, every other day.<br />
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Here's to a healthy and fantastic week!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-44991124258358408352013-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:10:59.653-08:00Friday Favorite: F/W 2013 Sorel Boots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3smFTKCeP1eVtQLAYJngjW0MdYG3oQ2ON1_VTDuPEqNtg6zm2CLMDRiBER-DTHecUuXYns3FmZoOIKYVRxacbHNBzn9Ckc79WR1MCzxgn1FDpIiam9fAxsMFDb_DRV3NAlmLyh1QS6I/s1600/sorel-for-concepts-1964-boots-man-and-woman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi3smFTKCeP1eVtQLAYJngjW0MdYG3oQ2ON1_VTDuPEqNtg6zm2CLMDRiBER-DTHecUuXYns3FmZoOIKYVRxacbHNBzn9Ckc79WR1MCzxgn1FDpIiam9fAxsMFDb_DRV3NAlmLyh1QS6I/s640/sorel-for-concepts-1964-boots-man-and-woman.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Growing up in Squamish, British Columbia, I used to wear Sorel boots everyday in the winter. As a child, I remember running around in my sorel boots for hours on end and never having to worry about getting cold or wet feet. Although my sorel boots were my winter lifesaver as a child and even into my pre-teens, when I hit high school, I was way too cool for the sorel boots. They were clunky, funny colored and just basically "unfashionable".<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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Fast forward to 2010 and the Canadian company going bankrupt, the American company Columbia, purchasing it and giving it a huge revamp. When I say huge, I mean ginormous. Last winter, I saw the sorel boots in a brand-new light and fell instantly in love.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmpSUQnmtOyYO2vRr51hcs8E_YX2MI66tNU1Tz8S4l3xVe96_A5UyaHgDEiIiKjPlhzbgL4NWMMWNhlwYWB43NXH88aoDKhAQbHBB-tBzLDb44hLKGXpk1aFH811ig0AGrr1sK0QbtbU/s1600/Elle-Sorel-boots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmpSUQnmtOyYO2vRr51hcs8E_YX2MI66tNU1Tz8S4l3xVe96_A5UyaHgDEiIiKjPlhzbgL4NWMMWNhlwYWB43NXH88aoDKhAQbHBB-tBzLDb44hLKGXpk1aFH811ig0AGrr1sK0QbtbU/s1600/Elle-Sorel-boots.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lifeandstyle.alexandalexa.com/sorel-snow-boots-for-kids/" target="_blank">Hello, Elle MacPherson</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOXiQe_43ruKuzlp6cbUD0fs76IpeyK9soe4YuGke1f5TTtaD4cK8oUTGLMmMJTMXpLgXMMcr6FB1E0uNi1cpG1LzS0IYm364FZPJukekeswer_GWgjoBhFiJCvChIVcrnSdz9ZoB85UI/s1600/Sorel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOXiQe_43ruKuzlp6cbUD0fs76IpeyK9soe4YuGke1f5TTtaD4cK8oUTGLMmMJTMXpLgXMMcr6FB1E0uNi1cpG1LzS0IYm364FZPJukekeswer_GWgjoBhFiJCvChIVcrnSdz9ZoB85UI/s1600/Sorel.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.jodyrobbins.com/uggs-vs-bogs/" target="_blank">Seriously, can we all just get on an private plane and fly away in our sorel's too?</a></div>
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Sorel has completely redesigned the boot to complement the modern woman; the slim-fit around the ankles, the fun fur and the color, detail and materials just scream, winter fashion at its best. My absolute favorite part is the fact that although being fashionable the boot is guaranteed to keep your feet warm and comfortable for long durations.<br />
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This week as I was browsing <a href="http://instagram.com/tastynchic" target="_blank">Instagram</a> on my commute to work, what did I notice in my news feed? Yes, pictures of really on-trend sorel boots. Sorel boots with amazing 4 inch orange heels and leather detail: completely high-street and to be honest, I couldn't be happier.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioES49fUFs0J33q6JehRf3Qo7cVg2eUVk-WX0y3H6eZhixgJB7kTgG2Pw_5Q6RvyIcivq2iAHPimVkPI9nGWGJVqNTu0JoH4kJ0Gx7CWkQBw1k7qTr_RyQhuUNgZvF9iVyS9_NTjCMe3I/s1600/Sorel_F13_NL1995_010_Womens_Medina_Rain_Ankle_Boot_004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioES49fUFs0J33q6JehRf3Qo7cVg2eUVk-WX0y3H6eZhixgJB7kTgG2Pw_5Q6RvyIcivq2iAHPimVkPI9nGWGJVqNTu0JoH4kJ0Gx7CWkQBw1k7qTr_RyQhuUNgZvF9iVyS9_NTjCMe3I/s1600/Sorel_F13_NL1995_010_Womens_Medina_Rain_Ankle_Boot_004.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGmpSUQnmtOyYO2vRr51hcs8E_YX2MI66tNU1Tz8S4l3xVe96_A5UyaHgDEiIiKjPlhzbgL4NWMMWNhlwYWB43NXH88aoDKhAQbHBB-tBzLDb44hLKGXpk1aFH811ig0AGrr1sK0QbtbU/s1600/Elle-Sorel-boots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <a href="http://www.northhip.com/sorel-lancerer-de-mest-alsidige-kollektioner-til-dato/" target="_blank">Medina Rain Ankle Boot</a></div>
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They even have the orange heel in a nice 1 inch height which would be perfect for weekend walks through the snow, brunch stops at one of Vancouver's outdoor food carts or running errands in the rain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ne8Thyphenhyphen3DkZAXOgXBNBWrCtlMBIaxSWyT8QQ6tDDwhEKQaidRq7umU9yH710LR_IDUDkQOFQ3RtQ3xeASaPJ5kc53gyvG83gJK1ZBbzMqCfKsc6uc-v7N9VFN3Yh5CYZv5ul1jRT7FgA/s1600/Sorel_F13_NL2006_010_Womens_Slimpack_Riding_Glow_Boot_004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ne8Thyphenhyphen3DkZAXOgXBNBWrCtlMBIaxSWyT8QQ6tDDwhEKQaidRq7umU9yH710LR_IDUDkQOFQ3RtQ3xeASaPJ5kc53gyvG83gJK1ZBbzMqCfKsc6uc-v7N9VFN3Yh5CYZv5ul1jRT7FgA/s1600/Sorel_F13_NL2006_010_Womens_Slimpack_Riding_Glow_Boot_004.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.northhip.com/sorel-lancerer-de-mest-alsidige-kollektioner-til-dato/" target="_blank">Slimpack Riding Glow Boot</a></div>
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Personally I'm leaning more towards the Slimpack because I could realistically see myself wearing the Sorel boot more so on the weekend plus, the style of the Slimpack would make it completely appropriate for commuting to work. </div>
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You can find the Sorel brand at <a href="http://www.theshoecompany.com/Categories/24-Boots.aspx/1/80000041%5eSorel" target="_blank">The Shoe Company</a> in Canada starting at $189.99 but sometimes they will go on sale and I know some friends of mine have purchased them at that particular store for half the price, I'm not sure if they will carry the Slimpack style at The Shoe Company. In the US, they carry the Medina Ankle Boot at <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sorel-medina-rain-ankle-boot-women/3475779?origin=keywordsearch" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a> starting at CDN$249 and on <a href="http://www.zappos.com/sorel-slimpack-riding-glow-black-bronco" target="_blank">Zappos</a> I was able to find the Slimpack glow boot for $130, shipping included. I know that Sorel does run big so perhaps size half or a full size down if you are ordering online through Zappos or some other online merchant. I cannot wait to purchase mine.</div>
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Happy Friday!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-52582375097397069112013-10-23T13:30:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:11:23.362-08:00Lunch Break Special: J-Crew Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hVfqzHjFjeghLdXMrPm8SvzoiYY_tKGLUJHAGFSiPAthOqYYSOIURNorMgRD-UkTZYXjNzUFiiOQQpadIJSnWmx9-h9NgXZyGYa5c1aU_VkmfxB2o9kj6VhU50K29BrGuyghQqZETcs/s1600/03193_ED4150_d5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hVfqzHjFjeghLdXMrPm8SvzoiYY_tKGLUJHAGFSiPAthOqYYSOIURNorMgRD-UkTZYXjNzUFiiOQQpadIJSnWmx9-h9NgXZyGYa5c1aU_VkmfxB2o9kj6VhU50K29BrGuyghQqZETcs/s640/03193_ED4150_d5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hi everyone,</div>
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J Crew is having one of their great sales. In addition to already great markdowns, they are providing an additional 20% off the lowest ticketed price that ends in $___.99.</div>
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I just picked up the fantastic Goodwinn Purse at the Vancouver location on my lunchbreak, it was unfortunately the last one but I did notice there were still some available online and the bonus, online, it's an additional 25% off with the code: SHOPNOW and free shipping until end of today, at checkout.<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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The strap length is perfect for the shoulder but will extend into a cross-body style. The leather smells and feels amazing and the inside is orange, which is one of THE colors for fall 2013. It's a perfect business / weekend purse, which I'm so excited to pull out with so many different outfits because of the neutral base of the purse.</div>
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You can find the Goodwinn <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/handbags/shoulderbags/PRDOVR~03193/03193.jsp" target="_blank">here</a> and make sure to browse all of J Crew's other amazing pieces while you are visiting their site.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-26069081075788046002013-10-21T06:00:00.001-07:002013-12-05T14:11:45.254-08:00Travel: Palm Springs (How-To)<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZDcfPFGAKawNYQ8OpKlhXSwRSZrpvhEYWs4biW9XepgPOpresUcRWwqdA_l1FgVHJJXebjS-1qE-9pXIcWtOXqio9B7khWCQ3DJbgr0F0QIhC-8fhwWTt8xlc93ZxJ0eNQepo342XPA/s1600/Luxury-Hotel-Palm-Springs-California-00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZDcfPFGAKawNYQ8OpKlhXSwRSZrpvhEYWs4biW9XepgPOpresUcRWwqdA_l1FgVHJJXebjS-1qE-9pXIcWtOXqio9B7khWCQ3DJbgr0F0QIhC-8fhwWTt8xlc93ZxJ0eNQepo342XPA/s1600/Luxury-Hotel-Palm-Springs-California-00.jpg" /></a></div>
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Palm Springs is one place that many Canadians love to travel to. Maybe it's the dry desert heat, the laid-back atmosphere or the fact that you really can't do much except relax by the pool, drink lots of tasty margaritas with the extremely reasonably-priced Don Julio Tequila you can purchase at Costco or maybe the fact that you feel like Frank Sinatra and the rack-pack in the '60s when you have a drink poolside at <a href="http://www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/california/riverside-hotels/the-saguaro-palm-springs" target="_blank">The Saguaro</a> or visit the Palm Springs Art Museum. Whatever the case may be, each time we visit Palm Springs, we come home completely relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to take back life in its regular format (a.k.a. working). <a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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Our usual Palm Springs vacation involves a lot of relaxing and not much else because previously we had never really looked into doing much else. This year when we visit Palm Springs with the in-laws in a couple weeks time, we really want to experience some more active and cool things that the city has to offer. I started doing some research a couple weeks back and the following is an extremely rough itinerary of what we can look forward to coming up.</div>
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Go for brunch at <a href="http://www.cheekysps.com/" target="_blank">Cheeky's</a>. It uses local organically sourced ingredients for all their menu items and because of this, the menu is constantly changing depending on what is in season or available. They have a bacon-flight which I am super curious to try and supposedly their Bloody Mary's are the best.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6fuTNuQagSC0P-R8Wo68_60tCq93EgYHTaDkCBeKYfMa6TAVZaU6EvThsM7Nd0nzKiIqiZU47DWCs7Vi_GTNTJ3w8z-e-tezat1tmRRrkr0Zl-6IlXKhhR5RmkB3e0SuEzpzy0U1yME/s1600/-Postcard_of_Cheeky_s-20000000005925310-500x375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6fuTNuQagSC0P-R8Wo68_60tCq93EgYHTaDkCBeKYfMa6TAVZaU6EvThsM7Nd0nzKiIqiZU47DWCs7Vi_GTNTJ3w8z-e-tezat1tmRRrkr0Zl-6IlXKhhR5RmkB3e0SuEzpzy0U1yME/s640/-Postcard_of_Cheeky_s-20000000005925310-500x375.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.gogobot.com/cheekys-palm-springs-restaurant" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Go Vintage shopping at <a href="http://shopresaletherapy.com/" target="_blank">Resale Therapy</a> and <a href="http://dejavuvintagefinery.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Deja Vu</a>. Now I know from personal experience that the Shop Space Outlets in Palm Springs is incredible (Prada shoes for 60%, Diane von Furstenberg for 50%!!), however this time I'm dying to visit some great luxury vintage shops. Some of the stores I have read about mention that because of all the uber-rich residents in Palm Springs, you are going to find some truly authentic, designer pieces for a fraction of the cost. In addition, I love vintage shopping because it is ethically responsible and the carbon-footprint is non-existent (if you don't include the older lady driving her Rolls Royce to the shop to drop off her goods).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXED1vEZ8SjTiaRDn3X4AQNRoZ_W-Ix25ibJNUtYAf7M56tTy_EbGwwKiXtgsGFFKyctqKX2_DW9yk0ti5l5kabWRmAje7wpR9JDfTg5WfSYjF05etTAQXqjg40aWur4XR-0xH7LjFHw/s1600/palm+springs+vintage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXED1vEZ8SjTiaRDn3X4AQNRoZ_W-Ix25ibJNUtYAf7M56tTy_EbGwwKiXtgsGFFKyctqKX2_DW9yk0ti5l5kabWRmAje7wpR9JDfTg5WfSYjF05etTAQXqjg40aWur4XR-0xH7LjFHw/s640/palm+springs+vintage.png" width="619" /></a><br />
<a href="http://blog.quiksilver.com/womens/sweater-weather-travels-palm-springs-2/attachment/untitled-7/" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Hike to the <a href="http://www.hiking-in-ps.com/" target="_blank">Peak of Mt. Jacinta</a>. After consuming all those margaritas and my mother-in-law's excellent cooking, we'll definitely be ready for something active like a hike, the Mt. Jacinta Peak Hike which is 11 miles round-trip from the top of the tramway will be perfect. It is the second highest point in Southern California and supposedly we just might be able to see the twinkling lights of Las Vegas at the mid-way point.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFprevA-uo2xtu93vsDAJ4OOFy3i4V7egv8tUd4SirTATJpDe8Hbin-sgBg973O-whU7lBFxj1huY9XjaRfeNc5O2Zl4CGT07RPWtUnXR7ejhJGzILUInl1sKpCNrTDXqBh3srbgdyCA/s1600/san-jacinto-tram-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsFprevA-uo2xtu93vsDAJ4OOFy3i4V7egv8tUd4SirTATJpDe8Hbin-sgBg973O-whU7lBFxj1huY9XjaRfeNc5O2Zl4CGT07RPWtUnXR7ejhJGzILUInl1sKpCNrTDXqBh3srbgdyCA/s1600/san-jacinto-tram-view.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="http://octrailhikers.com/2011/09/05/mount-san-jacinto-peak/" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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The <a href="http://www.psmuseum.org/exhibitions/current/" target="_blank">Palm Springs Art Museum</a>. The art museum provides a location for the affluent residents of Palm Springs to loan their collection for visitors to enjoy. I'm really looking forward to viewing the abstract artwork of Richard Diebenkorn and my husband has always been interested in pottery so the exhibit "Out of the Fire" about ceramic works should be pretty interesting as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNwmPWwpS5-zgwagimcXlvJ5_5DzdMw4NgJXVjklxW4KIVFGZX5RDKYalcsYLjH7OYmC0MUBf0c3RffsepGnG_sJzxDD7CgrblA7nADpeQXQX2oOekoWYpgsV_aUWpa3X8XAxfEMgec4/s1600/32d02ece455443679cdafad2f7d2c2d8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNwmPWwpS5-zgwagimcXlvJ5_5DzdMw4NgJXVjklxW4KIVFGZX5RDKYalcsYLjH7OYmC0MUBf0c3RffsepGnG_sJzxDD7CgrblA7nADpeQXQX2oOekoWYpgsV_aUWpa3X8XAxfEMgec4/s640/32d02ece455443679cdafad2f7d2c2d8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/36310340718063339/" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Mexican food at <a href="http://soulofmexicocv.com/" target="_blank">Soul of Mexico</a>. Our friends who are visiting Palm Springs right now texted me the other day and told us this was THE place for great Mexican food as the owners use home-made recipes that date back more than 100 years ago and in <em>Desert Magazine</em> in 2011, they were voted No. 1 Mexican Food in the Valley.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Nf_PwGEYaDFkLAwhLhUxaoL9BI03XgSkyeP5LYNF-fj4X4k1GHAZVCF-dny4_YsJfJypsfryIjjEw9TWGbYPo716srD95CSvbzYJY1fOSso4QgvAtekDfjE-fXIuwZrw17cY8uidjO8/s1600/1708823_height370_width518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Nf_PwGEYaDFkLAwhLhUxaoL9BI03XgSkyeP5LYNF-fj4X4k1GHAZVCF-dny4_YsJfJypsfryIjjEw9TWGbYPo716srD95CSvbzYJY1fOSso4QgvAtekDfjE-fXIuwZrw17cY8uidjO8/s640/1708823_height370_width518.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.palmspringslife.com/Palm-Springs-Life/Desert-Guide/Dining-Restaurants/Dining-and-Restaurant-Search/index.php/name/Soul-Of-Mexico/listing/36691/" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Drinks at the Colony Palms Hotel, poolside. Now I'm not sure if the poolside bar is for hotel guests only or if it is available for the public to enjoy as well but if so, we'll definitely be visiting the pool one evening during our visit. The Colony Palms is renowned for its service and was completely revamped by Martyn Lawrence-Bullard who is the poster child for the "rags-to-riches" story as one of the most sought-after interior designers right now. Plus I crack up with the way he pronounces his name on the show "Million Dollar Decorators".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3z4FpwZ5GtFRwlVldbKAMCufsX4q1oSIoNSNTEl4lp2nlVotPbJhuzZ6YD4ktiaCQQgjL1J6eOFEV8PZXJzKqVVZrYS7F1ed2H0cUOCKqX7Ob0XZBlOSQrAmQeJ216AoxN16tHS6D5Jo/s1600/COLONY+PALMS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3z4FpwZ5GtFRwlVldbKAMCufsX4q1oSIoNSNTEl4lp2nlVotPbJhuzZ6YD4ktiaCQQgjL1J6eOFEV8PZXJzKqVVZrYS7F1ed2H0cUOCKqX7Ob0XZBlOSQrAmQeJ216AoxN16tHS6D5Jo/s640/COLONY+PALMS.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/24/travel/24checkin.html" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Thursday night <a href="http://www.rvwest.com/article/palm_springs/what_are_you_doing_on_thursday_night" target="_blank">VillageFest</a>. Every Thursday night, Palm Canyon Drive stays open late and various businesses as well. The most interesting thing about VillageFest is the fact that over 200 vendors will have their tables/stalls set up streetside and we'll be able to scour cool art, handiwork and other unique items that may only be available at this particular event. Plus, live music and late-night eats sound pretty perfect to me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHUcIj06vm1Al0DPa-j_jRP4TTOp_4UfFoBl9uLe5b9CMamIKeKLqVHaliECkBDc8pjkdR7znsgX91aXdY35G1iZOxzwblc22IvG6foKZx-YolPkO_HO9T2jA-0aPgN72VO54wtbPeJs/s1600/Palm_Springs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgHUcIj06vm1Al0DPa-j_jRP4TTOp_4UfFoBl9uLe5b9CMamIKeKLqVHaliECkBDc8pjkdR7znsgX91aXdY35G1iZOxzwblc22IvG6foKZx-YolPkO_HO9T2jA-0aPgN72VO54wtbPeJs/s640/Palm_Springs.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.rvwest.com/article/palm_springs/what_are_you_doing_on_thursday_night" target="_blank">VIA</a><br />
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Well, the countdown is on for our upcoming vacation and I couldn't be more excited. I'll let you all know what we ACTUALLY end up doing because as you probably know, when you go on vacation, you want to do everything but sometimes end up doing nothing. Let's hope for the former rather than latter.<br />
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Finally, if you would like to see my pictures, live, while I'm on vacation, feel free to follow along on instagram: @tastynchic.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-60338727061762495572013-10-18T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:12:00.927-08:00Friday Favorite: FoodGawker<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJX0anQ_nvgg1hXLzGDbEVFpHyD8vmUpuoOkWoKCYzULJFFf0BX5bvMqyWihsfO8t3P5LOb1Qg-QTukvvIC6bx90caeFM_tym7WfvTJlth1hBCdChhROpqZ_3ovGi0CsBQYtwUx4jSaQ/s1600/hot-fudge-cake-2-fg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixJX0anQ_nvgg1hXLzGDbEVFpHyD8vmUpuoOkWoKCYzULJFFf0BX5bvMqyWihsfO8t3P5LOb1Qg-QTukvvIC6bx90caeFM_tym7WfvTJlth1hBCdChhROpqZ_3ovGi0CsBQYtwUx4jSaQ/s640/hot-fudge-cake-2-fg1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://pinchofyum.com/hot-fudge-cake-with-peanut-butter-sauce" target="_blank">Decadent Chocolate Fudge</a></div>
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I'm not sure if you know about <a href="http://foodgawker.com/" target="_blank">FoodGawker</a> but it's pretty much the best destination for food recipes. It's like the pinterest of food but even better because all the recipes have to be submitted, tested and then if it passes "the test" then it will be posted to the FoodGawker website, and FoodGawker has recently overtaken my love for Epicurious or AllRecipes because the recipes come straight from people like you and me, bloggers! I'm sure there are many excellent recipes in all the above-mentioned sites but FoodGawker is my new guaranteed location for successful recipes.<a name='more'></a><br />
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I can personally attest that 95% of the recipes I have tried have been a success and the only reason why the remaining 5% didn't work out was more so a mistake on my end. My favorite part about the FoodGawker website/app is that recipes are submitted from all over the world so if you are looking for truly authentic recipes like a <a href="http://www.frl-moonstruck-kocht.de/2013/09/apple-pancakes.html" target="_blank">really good German apple cake</a>, for instance, then it will be submitted by a German food blogger and then translated into English for the benefit of anyone who doesn't read German but appreciates an excellent German apple cake experience.</div>
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You can find my FoodGawker successes <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2013/09/food-caramelized-onion-pear-tart.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2013/09/food-sunday-morning-pancakes.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSfXPDi9J7uLXPiOk_4xOig9Mt2nzojS3kzfGQHf5tRbO4b_e0A2Mz4CniQwWwREZUz4SAnhnXRrMHaM0t5vbVS5od52gRvou4TmIbmCfgg1nirptCWncTP9AAXm0V6GiQHcACeYc054/s1600/oven+roasted+potatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSfXPDi9J7uLXPiOk_4xOig9Mt2nzojS3kzfGQHf5tRbO4b_e0A2Mz4CniQwWwREZUz4SAnhnXRrMHaM0t5vbVS5od52gRvou4TmIbmCfgg1nirptCWncTP9AAXm0V6GiQHcACeYc054/s640/oven+roasted+potatoes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.myadventuresinthecountry.com/2012/03/23/oven-roasted-potatoes/" target="_blank">Delicious Roasted Potatoes</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW1S-xyHOObCZmbXLg-F_A-xkFygcgQK2fi1cSHxFFhSuXSgKcrIVDl2cfV6pwtIuFkch4fM2g4D4JaWdKRRIL1xqO4GF6iiZpBui6Os0YSDGUqO_SVkm58KwfRhzRN5PcU2Qw16sidNM/s1600/newstrawcake3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW1S-xyHOObCZmbXLg-F_A-xkFygcgQK2fi1cSHxFFhSuXSgKcrIVDl2cfV6pwtIuFkch4fM2g4D4JaWdKRRIL1xqO4GF6iiZpBui6Os0YSDGUqO_SVkm58KwfRhzRN5PcU2Qw16sidNM/s640/newstrawcake3.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://roostblog.com/roost/an-anniversary-brown-butter-strawberry-cake-with-swiss-merin.html" target="_blank">Is this cake processed-sugar free, for real??</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMMoQ5K3tDGuAQqnFDptYN6A8VX0zljm7jBIi1rNIVXVIcO79xN-wiaJ8xIp0c04JL2qcoqAXntFVPKE3_Sn5xzjg90Y28R7G49S5j5Mxajy_0-uKUkj5GkpsNA3b0J7VuHwnxY55ebk/s1600/Pan-Fried-Crispy-Chickpeas-with-Lime-Inquiring-Chef-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMMoQ5K3tDGuAQqnFDptYN6A8VX0zljm7jBIi1rNIVXVIcO79xN-wiaJ8xIp0c04JL2qcoqAXntFVPKE3_Sn5xzjg90Y28R7G49S5j5Mxajy_0-uKUkj5GkpsNA3b0J7VuHwnxY55ebk/s1600/Pan-Fried-Crispy-Chickpeas-with-Lime-Inquiring-Chef-.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.inquiringchef.com/2013/06/14/pan-fried-crispy-chickpeas-with-lime/" target="_blank">Gluten-free snacks</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSs-MFTCIoFhAR5jNv2Hzcq30cqGLaGrMBRS_pzmegliC2vilJZBXC2EwI4BXVu_NTGdj1JI7pcEDhsIgpufuND7B96G1EXC-KAe4uy5rnxMF9yQIUpuvUgwa69aWGjAxtCET_GX3uuk/s1600/Cauliflower-Crust-Pizza-Ground-Beef-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuSs-MFTCIoFhAR5jNv2Hzcq30cqGLaGrMBRS_pzmegliC2vilJZBXC2EwI4BXVu_NTGdj1JI7pcEDhsIgpufuND7B96G1EXC-KAe4uy5rnxMF9yQIUpuvUgwa69aWGjAxtCET_GX3uuk/s1600/Cauliflower-Crust-Pizza-Ground-Beef-19.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thehealthyfoodie.com/2013/06/21/cauliflower-crust-pizza-with-ground-beef-and-green-olives/" target="_blank">Cauliflower pizza crust that looks like the real deal!</a></div>
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The more I browse around FoodGawker, the more excited I get. Can't wait to try some new and exciting recipes this weekend, I hope your "introduction" to FoodGawker will get you equally as excited as me.</div>
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Happy Friday!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-3332969833151481352013-10-14T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:12:15.841-08:00DIY: Front Entry Wallpaper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8keojyVw8bfaWe4mr8Au9R61bf7Xwv0G8uZmf_ekD_EbzBtWbU2709ff-xtIF1uIxo0E_6s28nQVXRbt9Rzodz71BkCBTDdnJcsV-HnArmL35mTNxUQRuMrp8rt_VY01T72Retr0I9jk/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8keojyVw8bfaWe4mr8Au9R61bf7Xwv0G8uZmf_ekD_EbzBtWbU2709ff-xtIF1uIxo0E_6s28nQVXRbt9Rzodz71BkCBTDdnJcsV-HnArmL35mTNxUQRuMrp8rt_VY01T72Retr0I9jk/s1600/photo+(3).JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIs8T-KMpn2DsWlbQhEuMYBzsgn_wAnsJs0KaVle21I2J1Weaa4HEcreriAVNSSj4UadMIcKFvVNBzpk-D5mHE8Ag9R0ZEnnfP5yi44rH2PIRs-feLv_Ga6pefLlV2jBSsu3xq83qZz0/s1600/photo+1+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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Since we moved into our new place our entryway was a difficult space to figure out. It is very small, it's really not an entry "way" more so just a basic entry, it really would have been easier to just leave it "as is" and keep it basic and pretty much the same as all the other townhouses in our complex but that wouldn't have kept to our personalities.<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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I love the idea of a proper umbrella stand, a console for your keys, mail, etc., and maybe even some coat hooks for company. The reality is that these items would not look good in our entry space and therefore we had to nix the idea.</div>
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We had started throwing various ideas around and the one that both my husband and I could agree on was wallpaper. I love the idea of a beautiful, dramatic wallpapered space and my husband liked the idea of just keeping the space uncluttered and clean.</div>
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We found a gorgeous damask wallpaper at Home Depot for under $40 per roll. A similar style through <a href="http://us.farrow-ball.com/orangerie-bp-2520/orangerie//fcp-product/202520" target="_blank">Farrow & Ball</a> runs just under $300 a roll, and other design stores in Vancouver will run up your tab similarly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_adnqaiJsqVFeOqQ6xKCyqKZ9OZZMERfuy8VSU9BNKbgZcQ2x-Ai-bdvuQFd_4vieVNjGNMDW4hezyw6LbzxVM6s69viH6BexSkasrrj4NkE6wE4P0ud2pSpQMyPznj9XpDbFH1uyDI/s1600/wallpaper+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_adnqaiJsqVFeOqQ6xKCyqKZ9OZZMERfuy8VSU9BNKbgZcQ2x-Ai-bdvuQFd_4vieVNjGNMDW4hezyw6LbzxVM6s69viH6BexSkasrrj4NkE6wE4P0ud2pSpQMyPznj9XpDbFH1uyDI/s640/wallpaper+photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We followed the instructions from <a href="http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/how-to-apply-wallpaper/index.html" target="_blank">here</a> and because the wallpaper was non-pasted rather than the traditional pre-pasted, <a href="http://www.frugalfamilytimes.com/2012/07/how-to-install-beadboard-paintable.html" target="_blank">these instructions</a> were very handy as well. A wallpaper kit typically has everything you need for this project and is one of the best things out there, however, if you would prefer to buy things separately, the following are the key items to complete the job.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOSJqSnAIK_bcoISQgxFYLDVecncTliBK6aFkGwaHD_tv3QpoNN1mxu7PW9NrCKQTJR3Txc-2P8oZAPulfheer3nj4Q46BB_Afxpn2kpSLI3WRsEbgsS6OR6rM6r1UkLCV22Kp2La6d4s/s1600/entryway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5UfbsiIZ54Imd2vLMS2vnjKUPvTAHch35-6JcbUL9YEEqVONhvXc0V2gNCIDcBiStcqp8OIsfuvFanBF_v5B-1oqEvyt_nIPqRtE2QfJ6VRfaxQGYd9gKbdnldh-_mSGQG3GAjfeE9U/s1600/Publication2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5UfbsiIZ54Imd2vLMS2vnjKUPvTAHch35-6JcbUL9YEEqVONhvXc0V2gNCIDcBiStcqp8OIsfuvFanBF_v5B-1oqEvyt_nIPqRtE2QfJ6VRfaxQGYd9gKbdnldh-_mSGQG3GAjfeE9U/s640/Publication2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before starting any part of the application, it is essential to pattern match so that your pieces will be ready to go up. We measured and cut our pieces and made sure that all patterns lined up with each additional piece that would be added beside the previously applied piece.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTQ9Qi-1fCN5lLe572yyna5iE8Uzot3oUcmjFgxmUcGHumBlFMk3n5PbZ3T3wnV5FFurxUsxJ1vyzGp6B2w6tKH83wByMLp-icT2CZCfPfmDxrVA7A6qumLGno2iUt8Tnc8EUedd0cnY/s1600/Wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTQ9Qi-1fCN5lLe572yyna5iE8Uzot3oUcmjFgxmUcGHumBlFMk3n5PbZ3T3wnV5FFurxUsxJ1vyzGp6B2w6tKH83wByMLp-icT2CZCfPfmDxrVA7A6qumLGno2iUt8Tnc8EUedd0cnY/s640/Wallpaper.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As we were featuring the side wall, we worked from the middle out so that the main damask pattern would be centered. A laser level is definitely the best item to centre the first piece, however they can be pretty pricey so if a manual level is what you have on hand, that would be fine as well, the bottom line is to just use a level. The first piece is the crucial piece as it will be the precedent on how evenly all the other pieces will be applied.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlCmmde5nnNu2VCqlz6Xun_FAP_UGyjir6B9GfhqnFmcKzDLut2UhJ6hXdzn1qVQ35sY7id_WvDgGcNJvawXwJEDduYTntI7sDLBVX1Cu_OYe3Xgmi9Q_cm-darHQGsS63_wQUzkD5HI/s1600/wallpaper+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwlCmmde5nnNu2VCqlz6Xun_FAP_UGyjir6B9GfhqnFmcKzDLut2UhJ6hXdzn1qVQ35sY7id_WvDgGcNJvawXwJEDduYTntI7sDLBVX1Cu_OYe3Xgmi9Q_cm-darHQGsS63_wQUzkD5HI/s640/wallpaper+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We alternated sides when applying each new piece.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzjQXn9s2ZM32ySDmeRItmP5jdPNkspljPKCtOXL7oDi3QdvVJTlH7sjLYJ5NiLjOLOVyk_Ha4xIzoixJ6jZW9ohrkeBwTHfM-g8cVUfN3QMRVVd3yMX-HJ7kQSUPT4_o62lUV2uPQlw/s1600/wallpaper+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzjQXn9s2ZM32ySDmeRItmP5jdPNkspljPKCtOXL7oDi3QdvVJTlH7sjLYJ5NiLjOLOVyk_Ha4xIzoixJ6jZW9ohrkeBwTHfM-g8cVUfN3QMRVVd3yMX-HJ7kQSUPT4_o62lUV2uPQlw/s640/wallpaper+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The final result.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOSJqSnAIK_bcoISQgxFYLDVecncTliBK6aFkGwaHD_tv3QpoNN1mxu7PW9NrCKQTJR3Txc-2P8oZAPulfheer3nj4Q46BB_Afxpn2kpSLI3WRsEbgsS6OR6rM6r1UkLCV22Kp2La6d4s/s1600/entryway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOSJqSnAIK_bcoISQgxFYLDVecncTliBK6aFkGwaHD_tv3QpoNN1mxu7PW9NrCKQTJR3Txc-2P8oZAPulfheer3nj4Q46BB_Afxpn2kpSLI3WRsEbgsS6OR6rM6r1UkLCV22Kp2La6d4s/s640/entryway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We came away very satisfied with our results and were surprised at how quickly it came together. Although it did take up the bulk of our evenings for one full week, we did take our time and we did have to run back to Home Depot for another roll so the time we spent felt justifiably longer than expected and next time we're pretty sure the application will not take as long.</div>
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I hope you can try this amazing project one day.</div>
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Happy DIYing!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-61753875879659946912013-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:12:35.104-08:00Friday Favorite: Scout Magazine<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYiBu58DhfEKitbFqBJyIcWRS6UcKMc8-f-8ThBBXPnleLbKCPgoANibyRKC8IJrt39uCQRmPFqWBghQCj6UiG4vPcS2UjaGJTvG6s01Sucitq4wSjqzl_HYojFLcHghfwIrdU-yMElzA/s1600/scout+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYiBu58DhfEKitbFqBJyIcWRS6UcKMc8-f-8ThBBXPnleLbKCPgoANibyRKC8IJrt39uCQRmPFqWBghQCj6UiG4vPcS2UjaGJTvG6s01Sucitq4wSjqzl_HYojFLcHghfwIrdU-yMElzA/s640/scout+front.jpg" width="438" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/" target="_blank">Scout Magazine</a> is one of the coolest spots to go and visit if you are looking for something to do, somewhere to eat or to fall back in love with our beautiful city of Vancouver.</div>
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They are a truly authentic information guide on the best of the best of our dear city and whenever I'm looking for something new to experience or do, Scout is the one stop spot for ideas which never fail.<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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I present to you<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/" target="_blank"> Scout Magazine</a> and all that it offers, such as:</div>
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<a href="http://www.thekeeferbar.com/" target="_blank">The greatest places to enjoy a cocktail</a>,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-cZkFQ4hYp_LAcc8zrWBg4GiVkf35ovlN44z7ZijygHtgKp59tHSCpVPy3Lrw1FJ_C2v49QQsIWQb8DCzfN8Ao3GJJ9IKABvxbTYpCRvNAM_VsDquBNa9rZp9Xu3ryu_e_bM-iGWJOE0/s1600/keefer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-cZkFQ4hYp_LAcc8zrWBg4GiVkf35ovlN44z7ZijygHtgKp59tHSCpVPy3Lrw1FJ_C2v49QQsIWQb8DCzfN8Ao3GJJ9IKABvxbTYpCRvNAM_VsDquBNa9rZp9Xu3ryu_e_bM-iGWJOE0/s640/keefer.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/2013/10/08/scout-list-10-things-that-you-should-absolutely-do-between-now-next-week-63/" target="_blank">The best things to do on a weekly basis,</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvAMu3d-ZUmymFuakUK3A4roCzgabxgH2NhxfotsE3hyphenhyphenCJOs09u-jaCsHgTy1J3AB7jr5qITi5fF9rcrNlwYvqZiJls_EBrYSNBweRFlK5q5cKoKd49ZSUMY7kmtc8SmD48gsQW7Gkgc/s1600/scout.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvAMu3d-ZUmymFuakUK3A4roCzgabxgH2NhxfotsE3hyphenhyphenCJOs09u-jaCsHgTy1J3AB7jr5qITi5fF9rcrNlwYvqZiJls_EBrYSNBweRFlK5q5cKoKd49ZSUMY7kmtc8SmD48gsQW7Gkgc/s640/scout.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/index.php?s=history" target="_blank">A great history lesson on Vancouver</a>,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOl4SGiEeouT4FuAx4JnqM7a0nVTyDOGyxiY57fjhs30QRXnbqqurB6yReQHLP3VYBv9sM71VVl1IPMwd5vCjh4V8bGNzvg7Ttdfwxtb66828e8WxPPnJI_E_wCbHF_VmHuVCOzGXnuUw/s1600/history+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOl4SGiEeouT4FuAx4JnqM7a0nVTyDOGyxiY57fjhs30QRXnbqqurB6yReQHLP3VYBv9sM71VVl1IPMwd5vCjh4V8bGNzvg7Ttdfwxtb66828e8WxPPnJI_E_wCbHF_VmHuVCOzGXnuUw/s1600/history+2.jpg" /></a></div>
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And of course, an excellent intel guide for <a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/2013/09/24/seen-in-vancouver-463-dreaming-of-next-summer-at-vancouver-fashion-week/" target="_blank">Vancouver's pretty cool fashion scene</a>,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0VhmUkgckzGhu3tGTkp1buAAzZsHBts4OQ0mmxVmNAatU7_oPpvo61eG1m9WpXjZn6tQ1Dn3_1JM27PubWoXy_B4rvKdB1uK0VIFfW1zLkC1LZKpE0r-vg3TSgWe8q401LEFQ0VbQgo/s1600/fashion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0VhmUkgckzGhu3tGTkp1buAAzZsHBts4OQ0mmxVmNAatU7_oPpvo61eG1m9WpXjZn6tQ1Dn3_1JM27PubWoXy_B4rvKdB1uK0VIFfW1zLkC1LZKpE0r-vg3TSgWe8q401LEFQ0VbQgo/s1600/fashion.jpg" /></a></div>
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So go ahead and visit <a href="http://scoutmagazine.ca/" target="_blank">Scout Magazine</a> now, your weekends will be much happier for it.<br />
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Happy Friday! </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9158516286642433553.post-88062021595834799262013-10-07T12:12:00.000-07:002013-12-05T14:12:45.768-08:00Food: French Lentil Soup by the Barefoot Contessa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm_i6-LBBSyuqq-jcQ0HiFGlCdAzl2d1fyMhDr8Fx23AShCbspIPybsk95v6Mlx7_xcd4AUmifyFlJTjkYbyFaNPMaMeWw3xUQH7DVRCHMcHTdoqvZuJeM_wdv5ql-9RWrZlDvHJQyqo/s1600/photo+2+(14).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm_i6-LBBSyuqq-jcQ0HiFGlCdAzl2d1fyMhDr8Fx23AShCbspIPybsk95v6Mlx7_xcd4AUmifyFlJTjkYbyFaNPMaMeWw3xUQH7DVRCHMcHTdoqvZuJeM_wdv5ql-9RWrZlDvHJQyqo/s640/photo+2+(14).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last winter when I was visiting relatives in Shanghai, which you can read about <a href="http://tastynchic.blogspot.ca/2013/01/travel-china-bound.html" target="_blank">here</a>, it was December and therefore chilly weather was a daily occurrence. Shanghai is beautiful and the winter's there are no different, therefore after a day of exploring outside, we were ready to come home to the comfort of a warm apartment.<a name='more'></a><br />
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We were then introduced to the <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/lentil-vegetable-soup-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Barefoot Contessa's French Lentil Soup</a> and after tasting this soup I came to the conclusion that I really did enjoy soup. I've always been more of a fan of cream based soups but after trying this soup, I have converted to being a tomato-based soup fan.<br />
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Not only is this soup extremely easy, hearty and healthy, it is completely vegan friendly and gluten-free because we replaced the chicken broth with miso broth.</div>
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