hello...?

Something about summer inspires me to update this poor, neglected little blog.  It may be the fact that my life is a billion times more interesting in the summer. If you’re still out there, here’s a quick update via my instagram feed.

Garlic Scapes are in season...they are my absolute favourite things to cook with. 

Can't beat fresh strawberries when they are in season. 

You will go so well with red wine. #chapterssaletablescore

Calamari tacos at Canteen d/t. I took off the peppers and cilantro. 

Artichoke and Feta Tart, recipe courtesy of Bon Appetit.  I replaced the heavy cream with greek yogurt. 

 

Wine club. I could never do this fabulous idea justice in writing. Start one and see for yourself. It rocks.

I'm finally getting around to painting my bedroom and bathroom. Sunday mornings with coffee in the paint aisle at Lowes. I'm such a grown up. 

These street flowers were too pretty. I had to snap a pic. 

Sporting my new blue dress. I bought it for a friends wedding but needed to test drive it first. Accompanied by the best investment ever. Five year old Ralph Lauren Wedges that never seem to go out of style.

I think I've worn my hunters more than my sandals this summer. Rainy days result in impulse J. Crew purchases. 

Speaking of J.Crew, their (free) monthly catalogue is one of the best. It's reliable monthly arrival brightens my trip to the mailbox. 

Little baby getting comfortable on one of my finer HomeSense finds. 

ps: I finally took a camera course and learned how to properly use my rebel. Go me.  Stay tuned for much of the same, but with better quality photos and much less fun insta-filters – don't lie, you know you'll miss valencia.

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foodie

I have no intentions of this becoming a food-based blog. My focus is lifestyle… but lucky for you (unlucky? your call), delicious things make up a big part of this foodies day.

Yesterday I slaved over this roasted cauliflower and aged cheddar soup… actually the whole thing took about 30 minutes and relatively little effort. It was delicious topped with a pesto crostini and some crumbled turkey bacon. Mmmm.

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take a break

The title of this post seems fitting given my blogging hiatus... here's hoping that the turn of season, fresh air and extended sunlight inspire me to keep this space current. 

After a stress filled couple of months a much-needed break has brought the opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy the things that tend to take a back seat in day-to-day life.

Following a trip with my mom to NYC, a clean house and fresh flowers have been just what I needed to usher in the spring vibe.

Switching out the winter décor for lighter, more spring like pillows.

Testing my hand at homemade bruchetta, topped with crumbled feta. 

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monday night catch up.

What do you do when one of your best buddies returns from a two-week vacation? Well if you are me, you immediately demand they come over and then force feed them artichokes and homemade pizza. What you don’t do that?

The pizza was a bit of a melange, once I realized my intended ingredients had gone bad in the fridge. So, I threw together this sauce and topped it with steamed spinach and mozzarella. The crust was thin and crispy, get the recipe here. 

My lovely, equally gourmet obsessed friend, was kind enough to return home with artichokes – delicious and surprisingly hard to find around these parts. I’ve had an artichoke obsession since dining at Bandara in Chicago years ago. They steam them, slathering them in butter, pepper and salt, and then char them on the grill. You rip off and dunk the petals into a dip I have never been able to pin-point (I use Ranch) and rip the meat out with your teeth. It sounds odd, but trust me, it’s amazing. 

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end of season

As much as I have tried to ignore the impending end of summer, it has arrived. The days are still hot but the nights are cool. School has started and soon enough warm summer days will be a distant memory.

With a major move and a few quick stints at school, my time for virtually all things summer has been limited.  Regardless, when I came across this recipe, I knew I had to take advantage of the last few weeks of fresh summer produce.

Next time I’ll skip the parsley (too bitter), and probably replace it with some kale. The dressing, blueberries and quinoa are a great compliment and went well with an al fresco steak dinner.

I’ll be soaking up the last few days with visits from old friends and some time by the pool. How will you make the most of the rest of the season?

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relax

Do you know what I like better than a spa day? Nothing.

Now becoming a bit of a yearly tradition, we set out at the crack of dawn (yes, 8am is the crack of dawn in my world) for a much-needed day of R&R at Ste. Anne’s Spa.

The highly acknowledged establishment is nestled in the Northumberland Hills and overlooks Lake Ontario. Upon arrival you are handed a robe and forced into a state of relaxation in the serene, technology free atmosphere. If that’s not enough, you are fed, scrubbed and steamed to your hearts content.

When not being indulged, you are free to wander the grounds, sun by the pool, curl up in the common room or unwind in the hot tub. If you fancy a workout, yoga, hikes and more are available with your stay.

Our 6pm checkout came much to soon, but we’ve promised ourselves a repeat visit this winter. Grab the girls and book here. 

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colour wrap

Those who know me, know that I have lately taken to spending my clothing budget on mops, cereal, and anything else you’d find at Loblaw’s, Costco or Home Depot. It’s been a rough transition.

I’m not completely cured however, and in what was an innocent trip to grab some hand soaps at Marshall’s, I ran into this baby.

It was love at first sight, there’s nothing like a good scarf to wrap up in when cold, and they seem to instantly boost even the most low-key of outfits. The best part…she was mine to take home for just $12. She'll likely be a repeat offender in my fall wardrobe.

I’m returning to my new-found ways now, I’ll be sure to update you all the next time eggs go on sale. 

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