tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76417519800690492592024-02-18T22:23:22.775-05:00Straight From The Curlsstraightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.comBlogger348125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-35937058110482999672013-06-03T22:00:00.000-04:002013-06-03T22:04:58.224-04:00An English affair: Pontefract CastlePontefract Castle was a running joke between B. and me in the days leading up to my visit across the pond. She joked about how it would be the first place she took me, and then laughed when I said, "I can't wait!" with more excitement than she expected. But here's the best part -- I actually enjoyed my visit through the castle ruins. <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.wakefield.gov.uk/CultureAndLeisure/Castlesandmuseums/Castles/PontefractCastle/default.htm" target="_blank">Pontefract Castle</a>: History in the ruins</b><br />
Known as one of the most feared forts in England's history, <a href="http://www.exploring-castles.com/pontefract_castle.html" target="_blank">Pontefract Castle</a> is truly a sight to see. Though all that's left of it are the scarce ruins, a walk through the grounds gives you an eerie sense of all that happened there in centuries gone by. Used as a fort, then as a castle, then as the prison of Richard II (It's believed he was murdered within the castle, actually!), it has played a pivotal role in the history books. In fact, Shakespeare was inspired by the story of Richard II's death there. <br />
<br />
I couldn't help but appreciate the views from the castle grounds. It's situated high above the town of Pontefract, so depending on where you stand, you get an awesome view of all the hustle and bustle in the town below. I had this moment where I felt I was part of history and part of the present. I was walking through the ruins and staring off into the distance as cars drove by. It felt pretty remarkable.<br />
<br />
Visits to the castle grounds are free, except when special events take place there. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBi1_mB4ooOWmJrbl5Aj8Dgc6suzE3K8RNEH3kM7R23s2X2GkX69Cty5LzH5PWT7EhE0z5WWdFaqeYCbKR_u7NNzWcuOZRudstKo-DowFJi82kWZCShtKC06J7D0oe9y2UMK-K6cWQsjZ/s1600/Ponte2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="515" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVBi1_mB4ooOWmJrbl5Aj8Dgc6suzE3K8RNEH3kM7R23s2X2GkX69Cty5LzH5PWT7EhE0z5WWdFaqeYCbKR_u7NNzWcuOZRudstKo-DowFJi82kWZCShtKC06J7D0oe9y2UMK-K6cWQsjZ/s640/Ponte2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stone pathway around the castle ruins.<br />
Photo by StraightFromTheCurls</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrX12icsnYd1B2PQGnkxUzoc9bl1DvXwcDIPF7Jr1eipix12rf_13BQaOyoJftqv9bvq5ANdBnMHUj7U_C7KFpSStnUYf_Mc4EVVCT_YgMNwj2_VS8648ltqSk7Yh1rhZtRJBJF6bt5PrI/s1600/ponte1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrX12icsnYd1B2PQGnkxUzoc9bl1DvXwcDIPF7Jr1eipix12rf_13BQaOyoJftqv9bvq5ANdBnMHUj7U_C7KFpSStnUYf_Mc4EVVCT_YgMNwj2_VS8648ltqSk7Yh1rhZtRJBJF6bt5PrI/s640/ponte1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wide view of the castle grounds. <br />
Photo by StraightFromTheCurls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BkQT9OaDMqE96NfhnffBdJrmPzHkIiZN3HOh2zTvs4w9UtiwW9G_O0nBzpnHmN_XvVfp_oBNxai4VKcJKhDAqMFyHQcb74BY7gcC-fue-AAnny_HBs2EjqJMWJ8-Ow7sk29A1E-eF-O7/s1600/Ponte3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BkQT9OaDMqE96NfhnffBdJrmPzHkIiZN3HOh2zTvs4w9UtiwW9G_O0nBzpnHmN_XvVfp_oBNxai4VKcJKhDAqMFyHQcb74BY7gcC-fue-AAnny_HBs2EjqJMWJ8-Ow7sk29A1E-eF-O7/s640/Ponte3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The remaining ruins of Pontefract Castle.<br />
Photo by StraightFromTheCurls</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm amazed at how so many of these ancient structures are still preserved in the UK. It's so fascinating to see the modern world built around these centuries-old buildings. Though not always romantic in history, these structures give modern culture roots, and I'm grateful that I had the chance to see so many of them firsthand. There's more to come, so please visit often! <br />
<br />
xo<br />
Simi<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>My favourite things today include: </b><br />
- A summer that (so far) isn't as muggy as last year. <br />
- The gift of time.<br />
- Fresh, clean drinking water within reach.<br />
- Alfonso Ribeiro coming out of hiding <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwS14TiO7Pk" target="_blank">to do this</a>. (Ignore the obnoxious bits and skip straight to 3:30)<br />
- And <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbIOD_elAgo" target="_blank">this</a>. It never gets old. <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-68291413522487963812013-04-07T21:21:00.000-04:002013-06-03T21:27:08.806-04:00An English affair: Harewood HouseI was lucky enough to visit a real heritage home during my <b><a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2013/04/an-english-affair-nostell-priory.html" target="_blank">trip to England</a> </b>earlier this year. I knew I wanted to see one in real life (I guess you can say it was on my 'bucket list'), so B. and her sister graciously made it happen during a day trip. <br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.harewood.org/house" target="_blank">Harewood House</a></b>:<b> A national Treasure House </b><br />
As one of the 10 most <a href="http://www.harewood.org/visit/treasurehouses" target="_blank">treasured houses</a> and palaces in England today, and located on the outskirts of Leeds, Harewood House was built in the mid-18th century and stands on a vast property. Among it's acres and acres of well-manicured land that's dotted with sheep (and some molehills), there's a beautiful bird garden and a serene orchard.<br />
<br />
The house itself is grand. There's no other way to describe it. From the the old kitchen in the lower levels (or 'under the stairs'), to the cabinets filled with centuries-old fine China on display, one could spend hours simply exploring life as it used to be. I also got a sense of just how many people it took to maintain a home like this -- think Downton Abbey and multiply that by a dozen. Gardeners greeted us while planting flowers along the pathways, and we also saw a man go into the bird garden to feed some of the exotic birds on display. <br />
<br />
Perfect for a day trip or a family excursion, Harewood House boasts history in every corner. It has art collections, rooms that display old Chippendale furniture and huge terraces that overlook green fields as far as the eye can see.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUh8643UMhzdeYQQE0VEl6oqL5UUJMzUG0BU52NwgHPoMwzjbIBnkTI_B3cfCvZhvqXgoZoE33YnkRLqpCd4NSDLCnzyaUg19GxEbZdvz1qQH5gJP5yPyw6f14ibhvxqDUlJxhtVWepYFG/s1600/tumblr_m9p1e2tgEn1qdmo8io1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUh8643UMhzdeYQQE0VEl6oqL5UUJMzUG0BU52NwgHPoMwzjbIBnkTI_B3cfCvZhvqXgoZoE33YnkRLqpCd4NSDLCnzyaUg19GxEbZdvz1qQH5gJP5yPyw6f14ibhvxqDUlJxhtVWepYFG/s640/tumblr_m9p1e2tgEn1qdmo8io1_500.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harewood House - front view. <br />
Image courtesy of <a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m9p1e2tgEn1qdmo8io1_500.jpg" target="_blank">stardustwish.tumblr.com</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span id="goog_798266423"></span><span id="goog_798266424"></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIn9pdsvrT7RY3pt3U4yvPRU6VcBmhhVvIn784GtweDt6fGb2waeGRx3PuxnHPgfZXF4MTMfrhnpo9zll45zdhBeJk9Er4ngH390-H9ZhM3xMveCwa6ziDwjVsCojWrQx5QjFTT8aTGvGQ/s1600/walledgarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIn9pdsvrT7RY3pt3U4yvPRU6VcBmhhVvIn784GtweDt6fGb2waeGRx3PuxnHPgfZXF4MTMfrhnpo9zll45zdhBeJk9Er4ngH390-H9ZhM3xMveCwa6ziDwjVsCojWrQx5QjFTT8aTGvGQ/s640/walledgarden.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quote on the walled garden at Harewood House<br />
Photography by StraightFromTheCurls</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of my favourite parts of this trip was when I found this quote (above) on the door leading to the orchard. It really spoke to me and I thought I'd share it with all of you.There's no question that the English have a way with their words. Beautiful! </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAjQaKkx1Hwnq_RwG0h3cMKlbWTxjfnhMRmn-uTZ1XoTQQZbw14YuHNZFDtPy1rtEFS3Api5BGSQtslriMblLrJUpY1qhdpESBCTAfhhPAe8rJuEYK1hrEJj4g5JM0U4Cvi9y4f6M97dg/s1600/harewoodview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAjQaKkx1Hwnq_RwG0h3cMKlbWTxjfnhMRmn-uTZ1XoTQQZbw14YuHNZFDtPy1rtEFS3Api5BGSQtslriMblLrJUpY1qhdpESBCTAfhhPAe8rJuEYK1hrEJj4g5JM0U4Cvi9y4f6M97dg/s640/harewoodview.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many views as I walked through the paths surrounding Harewood House.<br />
Photography by StraightFromTheCurls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I took a moment to capture this shot because I couldn't get over how breathtaking it was. I thought about how I could easily get used to the serenity that came with this view. Stunning, isn't it? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Simi</div>
<br />
<b>My favourite things today include:</b><br />
- Mum's delicious home cooking.<br />
- Dreams of an east-coast wedding happening later this month (not mine, but a dear friend's).<br />
- A Chicagoan coming to visit me in a couple of weeks. Yaay! <br />
- My faith that everything will work itself out as it's supposed to.<br />
- Free time -- the fact that it's rare makes it that much sweeter when it happens. <div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-44499128050345335762013-04-05T21:08:00.000-04:002013-04-05T21:21:06.717-04:00An English affair: Nostell PrioryAt the end of February, I picked up my bags and <b><a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2013/02/simple-love-in-real-time.html" target="_blank">hopped on a jet plane</a></b> bound for England. I had made up my mind earlier this year to spend about 10 days exploring a country that's been on my travel list for as long as I can remember. And explore I did. I had the chance to travel through some of England's major cities in the north, and ended my trip with five magnificent days in London. Over the course of the next few posts, I'll share some highlights from the trip, including my favourite sights, sounds, eats and experiences. So visit often! <br />
<br />
<b>A love so true</b><br />
I flew in to Manchester and met my dear friend B., who I've known since my stint in <b><a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2010/09/10-simple-lessons-from-year-abroad.html" target="_blank">South Korea</a></b>. B. lives in West Yorkshire, and I spent the first few days of my travels exploring this quaint section of the world she calls home. I can't deny that the sights, sounds, smells and simple beauty of this part of England had me giddy with romantic thoughts. I was finally a part of the English countryside I'd read so much about -- it was no longer simply in my dreams, and it didn't fail to deliver.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/nostell-priory/" target="_blank">Nostell Priory</a>: The big house</b><br />
I visited Nostell Priory with B. and her sister on my first full day in England. We drove through the country roads and pulled up to the front parking lot of a grand house near <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wakefield" target="_blank">Wakefield</a> -- the kind I'd only seen before in BBC dramas or in my imagination while engrossed in Jane Austen novels. I remember seeing the house in the distance and thinking about how magnificent it looked set against the misty English weather I'd come to love.<br />
<br />
The Nostell Priory website sums it up quite truly and simply: <b>An 18th century architectural masterpiece</b>. Getting to the house meant walking through the grounds, which seemed to go on for acres. But I didn't mind it. I imagined the ancestors of the Priory (home to the Winn family for 300 years) walking the grounds just like me, but years before; sharing stories, exchanging ideas and dreams. My little romantic heart went pitter-patter as I walked through the well-maintained pathways, and I finally started to realize the inspiration for all my beloved Victorian novels.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVOLpG51E7rgq1u6AaiRkL8d9Ia04jf73k1xnMHPy6lXnU95Byysy7FIbvTlYs8i6dNhznHF7Q6cMPawiyH5sweArGDGqDb0bYjL_LChIZ7fLAfQLq8qtee4Y4SomEqmpL-cGjl_pgKCB/s1600/NostellPriory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVOLpG51E7rgq1u6AaiRkL8d9Ia04jf73k1xnMHPy6lXnU95Byysy7FIbvTlYs8i6dNhznHF7Q6cMPawiyH5sweArGDGqDb0bYjL_LChIZ7fLAfQLq8qtee4Y4SomEqmpL-cGjl_pgKCB/s640/NostellPriory.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main grounds of Nostell Priory. Photography by StraightFromTheCurls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hope you enjoy this photo as much as I do. Stay tuned for more from my trip to the other side of the pond. From an actual estate home to a serene walk along the Thames in London, there's a lot more happy memories coming your way.<br />
<br />
xo<br />
Simi<br />
<br />
<b>My favourite things today include:</b><br />
- A clean desk at work (I took my lunch hour for some spring cleaning -- absolutely worth the effort).<br />
- My bed (March was a busy travel month, and there's something to be said about the comfort of your own bed).<br />
- <a href="http://www.richardcmorais.com/the-100-foot-journey/" target="_blank">The Hundred-Foot Journey </a>(It's the book I'm currently reading, and absolutely love). <br />
- <a href="http://www.aetv.com/duck-dynasty/" target="_blank">Duck Dynasty</a> marathons on A&E.<br />
- Daily texts from my mother.<br />
- The first signs of Spring (I saw tiny crocuses pushing their way out of the Earth today, and I couldn't help but smile).<br />
<br />
<b>Your turn! What are some of your favourite things right now?</b><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-79724313196761089142013-02-11T21:05:00.001-05:002013-02-11T22:05:39.153-05:00Music, moments and memoriesOne of the last distinct conversations I remember having with my father happened a year ago today. There were more, of course, but this one stands out in particular because of the date. It was about the <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/whitney-houstons-family-year-death/story?id=18446179" target="_blank">death of Whitney Houston</a>. She, for as long as I can remember, was always one of his favourite singers. "She has such a powerful voice, no?" he would often say to me.<br />
<br />
He would then go on to compare her to the latest singers -- most of whose names he could barely remember. He would make up their names, coming as close as possible, but never quite get them. I guess it showed he didn't care much for the Britneys and the Chris Browns of modern music. He often vented about how the latest music was "rubbish". "Whitney -- wow!" he would say.<br />
<br />
So when he found out one of our timeless favourites had passed away last February, all he could say in reaction was "So sad..." over and over again, with a contemplative look on his face. He knew her life story and said all of that didn't matter because she was an amazing singer with a beautiful gift. It was fun watching him talk about the things he felt passionately about.<br />
<br />
The more I think about it, the more I realize he must have known he didn't have long either. Just over four months later, he passed away.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvlL-UF0hE2rjnAY8yuCFLTQlIvx4qUFns9zDj_RUS4aDNqejlcnqaVk6VE4JQRtpy7qYHht0T212GWDlZ4CNHPmxnkbxFwhQ6IySXOCerH-zhrNN3mZg8-p6ErMMs2Q5_FOvXL_v5u1T/s1600/gLZcgIy-BXI7cCK5thsXuDl72eJkfbmt4t8yenImKBVaiQDB_Rd1H6kmuBWtceBJ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvlL-UF0hE2rjnAY8yuCFLTQlIvx4qUFns9zDj_RUS4aDNqejlcnqaVk6VE4JQRtpy7qYHht0T212GWDlZ4CNHPmxnkbxFwhQ6IySXOCerH-zhrNN3mZg8-p6ErMMs2Q5_FOvXL_v5u1T/s400/gLZcgIy-BXI7cCK5thsXuDl72eJkfbmt4t8yenImKBVaiQDB_Rd1H6kmuBWtceBJ.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Google Images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
That's the thing, though. My father always had a special connection to his love for music. He preferred his trusty little transistor radio (tuned in to one of two stations -- <a href="http://music.cbc.ca/#/radio2/" target="_blank">CBC Radio 2</a> or the best of the oldies), to any television show. Well, except for <a href="http://www.tcm.com/" target="_blank">Turner Classic Movies</a>.<br />
<br />
But the one thing that defined my father... The one way everyone knew he was home from work was because of the music -- soft acoustic jazz, classic crooners, the oldies and so much more. He loved it all.<br />
<br />
And that's how we knew something was amiss towards the end. He was home, but the sweet sounds that floated lightly through the silence had stopped. The music had stopped, and that's how we knew.<br />
<br />
Today, his little transistor radio sits on my kitchen counter, tuned to the same station that played his favourites for him in the evenings -- CBC Radio 2. Sometimes, when I miss him the most, I turn it on and it feels like he's in the room with me.<br />
<br />
That's the funny thing about music -- it's the easiest way to connect with a memory. Music evokes emotions, and it's a wonderful thing. Whether a vacation, a moment of nostalgia or a person, music is universal and it acts as the invisible thread that ties our past, present and future together into a lovely package.<br />
<br />
So whatever happens, whatever you do, don't let the music in your life stop playing.<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="335" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3LPmeV3omHQ" width="450"></iframe></center>
xo<br />
<br />
Simi<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-13535295881294301612013-02-08T18:15:00.000-05:002013-02-08T22:32:32.493-05:00Friday evenings are meant for...Friday evening. It's one of my favourite times during the week. When the day begins to close, I get a sense of satisfaction from having finished another set of work days. I always take a moment to sit down and quickly reflect on all that was accomplished, and make a mental note of all that needs to be done. But not till Monday. <b>On Friday evenings I look forward to two days of just being.</b> I look forward to no forced commitments (for the most part) and I enjoy a few moments of quiet when I can simply just be. <br />
<br />
I think we forget to do that more often than not. Unwind. <b>When was the last time you did something just for yourself?</b> I think it's important to reconnect with yourself from time to time. Whether you simply take yourself out for a coffee date, go for a long drive or spend a few moments just paying attention to where you are in time and space... it makes a big difference to your overall being.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztYfihgAXNc03aPIeEiHc-TWAKCar8cSwlO2F3Pvd30CDAkREXDJxYufiXa0ibJANljxLJWG8ZI4IRDZsKGFICoQQM_K7EPVdNvjGveWXSW1CZQ-lQdhWWr1JQCPWXwglp7yPKPV53oFO/s1600/3ad2fc799f2b726afab565e53010bac2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztYfihgAXNc03aPIeEiHc-TWAKCar8cSwlO2F3Pvd30CDAkREXDJxYufiXa0ibJANljxLJWG8ZI4IRDZsKGFICoQQM_K7EPVdNvjGveWXSW1CZQ-lQdhWWr1JQCPWXwglp7yPKPV53oFO/s400/3ad2fc799f2b726afab565e53010bac2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1024&bih=643&authuser=0&tbm=isch&tbnid=CoxJ_0ZUmOScwM:&imgrefurl=http://100smilechallenge.wordpress.com/2012/01/11/bask-in-contentment/&docid=XKMAtBlJ1M-QkM&imgurl=http://100smilechallenge.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/contentment-needed-167658-500-5001.jpg&w=500&h=500&ei=4B2jT83gFIKu9ASf3f08&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=404&vpy=277&dur=2326&hovh=225&hovw=225&tx=145&ty=123&sig=113419204884652970515&page=3&tbnh=137&tbnw=117&start=35&ndsp=20&ved=1t:429,r:7,s:35,i:184">Pinterest.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>My favourite things today include:</b><br />
. <a href="http://www.songza.com/" target="_blank">Songza</a> (and how the app knows just which song I need to hear).<br />
. Woollen socks on cold days.<br />
. My desktop background: A photo of waves hitting the shore. The perfect solution to getting through <a href="http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/02/07/toronto-braces-for-snowmageddon-rest-of-canada-laughs/" target="_blank">Snowpocalypse 2013</a>.<br />
. A <a href="http://alexishi.com/" target="_blank">fantastic and talented graphics designer</a> who has been working with me on a special project.<br />
. Spring flower bouquets on dull, dark days.<br />
. Receiving texts from my mother.<br />
. Remembering one of my favourite quotes from <a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/catalog/world/readfile?fk_files=3001035" target="_blank">Mansfield Park</a>: "<i>There are as many kinds of love as there are moments in time.</i>" - Edmond<br />
. <a href="http://www.stevemadden.com/Item.aspx?id=52223" target="_blank">These boots</a>.<br />
. Knowing I'm going home to a warm bed tonight.<br />
. The fact that two weeks from today, <a href="http://besttravelphotos.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/whitby-abbey-england.jpg?w=500" target="_blank">I'll be here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>Now it's your turn to fill in the blank.</b><b> "Friday evenings are meant for _______________."</b><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-23729893067797217712013-02-05T21:54:00.002-05:002013-02-08T14:32:40.437-05:00Simple love in real time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How can it already be February? Where did the last month go? <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2012/12/a-2013-wish-for-you-and-me.html" target="_blank"><b>2013 took off to a busy start</b></a> for me in terms of work and my personal life as well. I was knee deep in all things Valentine's Day, but I was also experiencing something that I hoped would eventually happen... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the cold days of January I felt the fog over one of my past experiences lift... and for the first time in many years, I experienced clarity. And oh, what a feeling that is! <b><a href="http://www.notethismoment.com/" target="_blank">It's that moment</a> </b>where there are no more doubts about something weighing heavily on your soul. There are no more back and forths; no more what ifs; no more maybe this and maybe thats. No more tug of war games between your heart and your head. It's the moment when you realize that things are exactly as they are supposed to be -- and that you're completely okay with that.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ah! And in that moment of clarity I did something for myself. I booked a trip to a country that's been at the top of my travel wish-list ever since I fell in love with Pride & Prejudice as a fourteen-year-old girl. I'm off to England at the end of the month to visit a dear friend, to have some of my own adventures, to dream, write, breathe, laugh, and to maybe... just maybe meet <i><b>my</b></i> Mr. Darcy. (Hey, a lady can dream, right?)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But before I do that, I need to reaffirm some things. It's kind of like my own take on therapy for 2013. To focus on the positive. My goal is to end each post this year with some of my favourite things. These are the ordinary, everyday things that bring a smile to my face without effort. They are the simple strokes that add to the the painting that is my life and I need to acknowledge them, because let's face it -- It's so easy to get lost in the negativity sometimes. So here we go. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>The simple things...</b></div>
<div>
. Perfectly ripe avocados</div>
<div>
. Wildflowers </div>
<div>
. The way the sky looks during sunrise/sunset</div>
<div>
. A cool breeze on a warm day</div>
<div>
. A warm spot of sunshine on a cold day</div>
<div>
. Plain bread and butter sandwiches</div>
<div>
. Cursive writing</div>
<div>
. Snail mail (Flyers and bills not included)</div>
<div>
. Big, oversized scarves -- no matter the season</div>
<div>
. <a href="http://instagram.com/samhaseyebrows" target="_blank">Sam -- the eyebrow cat</a> (Those eyebrows are 100% real + he has a very sweet story!)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLLkoiXZtCyIqJ5ElXPheSqLQPzdaBzoDlEdezKnaDZcZwNorjSQkWXlFYdVA3h2HfI2LM2oXhzWMycPi8Ddq0UkE1NTyT0jQ9H7W6iYb-gdo5jz14Z1vmUIPrEzJWJBoI975O3wrbb-S/s1600/eyebrow-cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLLkoiXZtCyIqJ5ElXPheSqLQPzdaBzoDlEdezKnaDZcZwNorjSQkWXlFYdVA3h2HfI2LM2oXhzWMycPi8Ddq0UkE1NTyT0jQ9H7W6iYb-gdo5jz14Z1vmUIPrEzJWJBoI975O3wrbb-S/s320/eyebrow-cat.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of SamHasEyebrows.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What are the simple things in your life that you love? Can you list at least three?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
xo<br />
Simi</div>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-76151198409698520432012-12-31T17:38:00.000-05:002012-12-31T17:39:06.901-05:00A 2013 wish for you and meHello dear friend,<br />
<br />
It's new year's eve in Toronto, and I've spent some time thinking about what I'd like to say to you as we start 2013. I also spent a considerable amount of time reflecting on all that happened this past year...<br />
<br />
And then I realized I was done with it. <br />
<br />
2012 was a monumental year for me, and I know I'll never forget it. But it's also time to embrace the present reality, recognize that the past is just that -- the past, and to look hopefully towards a brighter future. <br />
<br />
I couldn't find better words than these gems from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_Gaiman" target="_blank">Neil Gaiman</a>. So here's to you and your dreams, my friend. May the <strong>New Year 2013</strong> be everything you wish it to be, and may you and your loved ones be blessed with all the things that will make your hearts sing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEiQQxDbPeNgO3eYMuJkHWPMRY0LXjQvcC8r38unAqWx3KKQsTmT-hunbhyphenhyphencecV1VDRtDAqGf-Bn-P_MV4e972rtRYSsoW2CdmSlJvf02n9nQO93_EBeTApVVYmOL-y4WCKpfMSigOrAM/s1600/206110120415877595_KGZUjFSG%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEiQQxDbPeNgO3eYMuJkHWPMRY0LXjQvcC8r38unAqWx3KKQsTmT-hunbhyphenhyphencecV1VDRtDAqGf-Bn-P_MV4e972rtRYSsoW2CdmSlJvf02n9nQO93_EBeTApVVYmOL-y4WCKpfMSigOrAM/s640/206110120415877595_KGZUjFSG%255B1%255D.jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Pinterest.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
xo</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Simi</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-40130913805776755382012-12-18T23:11:00.002-05:002012-12-18T23:41:54.414-05:00Anything but the (bad) news<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I follow a number of organizations and pages over on Facebook. These pages either represent various brands I like or share information and content I enjoy. One of my favourite pages by far, however, is <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/OHnewsroom?fref=ts" target="_blank">Overheard in the Newsroom</a>. Everyday I see at least one to two anecdotes submitted by members from various newsrooms that resonate. Quotes can range from the daily hilarious one liner to something more significant. Like this one (pictured below), posted two days after the <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/9749157/Connecticut-school-shooting-Adam-Lanza-rigged-rifle-for-maximum-damage.html" target="_blank">Connecticut school shooting</a> on December 14th, 2012. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrS6Sk1tZj5UNM7MzV38Xtru_XLYzo6sqZ8CXwP99rmvIR35o1cvAHCtqcVoKXElC0pf426qQSeYB1ad77d-IeUPP62I1UgiONt10R9Ehmncfc2jtexQl-bsSOGiXCx8B-ABKpe_cQ1MD/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrS6Sk1tZj5UNM7MzV38Xtru_XLYzo6sqZ8CXwP99rmvIR35o1cvAHCtqcVoKXElC0pf426qQSeYB1ad77d-IeUPP62I1UgiONt10R9Ehmncfc2jtexQl-bsSOGiXCx8B-ABKpe_cQ1MD/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screengrab courtesy of StraightFromTheCurls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In a day when news is literally available at our fingertips, it can be hard to tune out. From newspapers to 140 characters on Twitter, if something is trending, we're going to hear about it -- whether good or bad. But it seems like these days, it's mostly bad. Bad news is magnified. It's what sells. If we're not getting the straight skinny, we're getting the angles. And the worst part is the rush to get the information across. For instance, in an effort to be the 'first' to break news to the worldwide audience, news agencies didn't fact-check the information they provided about the true identity of the Sandy Hook killer or his relationship to the school.<br />
<br />
I think that's what frustrates me the most. When I work with interns I try to drill the importance of fact-checking their work before hitting the submit button. Yes, in the online world we're able to edit our work as soon as we notice our mistakes, but news travels so fast that the ramifications of false information circulating over the Internet (even for mere minutes) can create a negative ripple effect.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I guess my point in all this is that sometimes silly news is good news. It's healing. Viral videos of puppies driving cars or cute cards with catchy phrases are more than welcome amidst such sadness. In fact, I told someone the other day that there should be a <a href="http://www.afv.com/" target="_blank">Funniest Home Videos</a> channel. Laughing uncontrollably for even 15 short minutes can make such a difference to our overall health.<br />
<br />
So with that said, here are my five favourite links from this past week. At some point or another they've either made me giggle at my desk or want to share them with coworkers and friends. I hope you get a laugh (or two) from them, and I also hope you'll feel inclined to share them with those who need them the most.<br />
<br />
1. Said <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBJ28V4xGG8" target="_blank">dog on bicycle</a> referred to in the Overheard in the Newsroom comment.<br />
<br />
2. A <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/catesish/boston-terrier-puppy-cant-keep-his-feet-down" target="_blank">Boston terrier puppy</a> who can't keep his hind legs down while eating. <br />
<br />
3. <a href="http://www.break.com/pictures/11-people-we-dont-want-to-see-in-2013-2397009/#./" target="_blank">11 people we don't want to see in 2013</a> (yes, Donald Trump made this list).<br />
<br />
4. <a href="http://www.twitter.com/emergencypuppy" target="_blank">Emergency Puppy</a>: The Twitter account I'm so gratefully following. (You should too.)<br />
<br />
5. And my most favourite compilation... <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/expresident/cutest-things-that-happened-in-2012" target="_blank">40 of the cutest things that happened in 2012</a>.<br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />
Simi<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-46999768540507277712012-11-20T23:15:00.000-05:002012-11-21T21:09:23.160-05:00A present worthy of a pauseI can say in all honesty that the firsts have been the toughest. They always are, aren't they? Since June, we've been through the Euro Cup, the Olympics, birthdays, Thanksgiving, Diwali... his favourites. Seasons have changed and life has moved on. <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2012/09/on-loss-life-and-things-well-never-know.html" target="_blank"><b>And it has only been five mont</b><b>hs</b></a>. Well, it will be five months on November 21st. Five months on what would have also been a milestone birthday for him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJG5bUEBK7bTBLTdQi9XTRNh6SMyYz2cCM2m3_RLU3DNQ0FDsoqRGHKSzq21Z7OgRtZhD145XjRjM7Npbs3s0vuALuX1GscZdxZE8tubAxguqf4tihyphenhyphenJivlrHzun4f3vNbnkFnNggkH6R/s1600/63120832248670210_tLJRFYsj_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSJG5bUEBK7bTBLTdQi9XTRNh6SMyYz2cCM2m3_RLU3DNQ0FDsoqRGHKSzq21Z7OgRtZhD145XjRjM7Npbs3s0vuALuX1GscZdxZE8tubAxguqf4tihyphenhyphenJivlrHzun4f3vNbnkFnNggkH6R/s640/63120832248670210_tLJRFYsj_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image found on <a href="http://www.poster-street.com/posters_inner/perhaps-they-are-not-stars_64.html" target="_blank">Pinterest.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
In one way, time has been speeding on by. I can't believe it's almost the end of November, with <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2011/12/homemade-holiday-decorations.html" target="_blank"><b>Christmas right around the corner</b></a>. But in other ways, the days have been dragging. I sometimes feel as though I want time to speed up. Like the faster it goes, the closer and sooner I'll get to what it is I really want. I keep imagining that the fates have this grand plan chalked out for me. Something that will involve more smile than frowns and more reasons to live in the present than to anticipate what the future will bring.<br />
<br />
Then, just as I get ahead of myself and what I imagine things will be like a year or a decade from now, life sends me a reminder that I'm not promised anything beyond the present. You'd think after everything this year has swung my way I'd have learned that lesson by now...<br />
<br />
Then again, I suppose the reminders are also important. They're flagposts of our own mortality. I feel like we live in an age where life moves so quickly that we're constantly struggling to keep up.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishbXfm45ECRAkigmjqzeDb92PwFuZj06DAuWhQKBxTnNUto-OrO1-Voqme-H8us1xUXSi7mQSA-pShYFrkl1yofz_E3frvLrhypjRR_ngehmea0_uHm9hRbgFb4VQwV4rD4UU87_s2wm1/s1600/78672324711767285_WXMVsEqv_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishbXfm45ECRAkigmjqzeDb92PwFuZj06DAuWhQKBxTnNUto-OrO1-Voqme-H8us1xUXSi7mQSA-pShYFrkl1yofz_E3frvLrhypjRR_ngehmea0_uHm9hRbgFb4VQwV4rD4UU87_s2wm1/s640/78672324711767285_WXMVsEqv_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image found on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/240801911297316796/" target="_blank">Pinterest.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm starting to savour the moments when I'm still. I used to be scared of the silence, but now I'm starting to embrace it. I'm grateful for quiet moments that let me reflect.<br />
<br />
Many years ago, my mum printed out this image (pictured below) and stuck it to the mirror on her dressing table. <b>Five simple rules for happiness.</b> I remember seeing this printout every so often, but wouldn't really pay attention to it. It keeps springing to mind now, though. She follows these rules every day, and I hope that some day I'll be able to do the same.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kqyP5mb60e5y3om0Ak9QMxkSPSIIudlwGWBQfklzWvWLkBD6X2pSQloIcBkWBzMUS_aAwj2HHBbTTIJHObZSvm3VOsjUOAcs3b8EldD0EARTPC86yCZkUAOSb4-J7cM0oORlldVtf6ck/s1600/29414203785837462_hnOrNJbN_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kqyP5mb60e5y3om0Ak9QMxkSPSIIudlwGWBQfklzWvWLkBD6X2pSQloIcBkWBzMUS_aAwj2HHBbTTIJHObZSvm3VOsjUOAcs3b8EldD0EARTPC86yCZkUAOSb4-J7cM0oORlldVtf6ck/s400/29414203785837462_hnOrNJbN_c.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image found on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/240801911295531087/" target="_blank">Pinterest.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
xo<br />
<br />
Simi<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-32250024791044484402012-11-12T23:45:00.001-05:002012-11-13T13:37:15.902-05:00For the light that guides us<i>"2012 will be the year when big things happen!"</i><br />
<br />
I clearly had high hopes when this year first began.<br />
<br />
When I made that statement at the turn of the new year, I was thinking new job, life-altering trip... things along those simple lines. But how does that saying go? Something about the "best laid plans going astray...?"<br />
<div>
<br />
If my experiences this year have taught me anything, it's to not be surprised if you end up on a different journey in life than you had planned. Because even if you have it all figured out (right down to what outfit you'll wear on the plane as you embark on your great escape), life can shift gears at any moment and send you on a journey you had no intention of ever entertaining. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The thing about these unexpected journeys, however, -- the ones that shake the very foundation that you exist upon -- is that they hold a mirror to you. They usually set forth a series of events that test you down to your core. They make you rediscover yourself -- your mirth, your courage, your resilience, and what you truly believe in. I can't say there's a real ending to these journeys because I think they're the forever kind. But I can say that the strengths you pick up along the way (because they are strengths) do make the road... less... difficult. And they, perhaps, even help you as you work on your other plans -- once you get back on track, of course. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2012/09/on-loss-life-and-things-well-never-know.html" target="_blank"><b>Losing my father in June</b></a> came as a rough blow. I wasn't ready for it. It wasn't part of my plan this year. I know that sounds awful, but because his passing was very unexpected I can say it. I (and members of my family, in their own way) have been on one of these unexpected journeys since May. And I have been tested. From shocking emotions to moods I never even knew existed, it's been a roller coaster. And I'm trying hard to stabilize the flickering lights in my life. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I mentioned in my last post that over the past few months I've taken comfort in my job and the joy it gives me. However, the moments on my own have been the toughest. I've been forced to acknowledge a reality without my father, and it's heartbreaking. He comes to mind mostly during the holidays -- especially the Indian ones. He enjoyed them the most because they reminded him of his youth, growing up in India. <a href="http://festivals.tajonline.com/ganesh-chaturthi.php" target="_blank">Ganesh Chaturthi</a> and now, <a href="http://www.canadianliving.com/food/cooking_school/diwali_how_to_celebrate_the_festival_of_lights.php" target="_blank">Diwali -- the festival of lights</a>. There's no denying a lot of people saw the light that shone brightly through my father. </div>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5CA6xkv5CqZA2VO9dnnvznVsa8pDrW2Stin-OopA2yX1BG-0KvpCphf3Nsb8Z1B7nOqBklZvO7F-toOBsOpvfsuoFIrF9ztpMtZKi0qDdgvLwktVnz32nz2Pxja0w6lWx7ClgmGVHp29/s1600/-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl5CA6xkv5CqZA2VO9dnnvznVsa8pDrW2Stin-OopA2yX1BG-0KvpCphf3Nsb8Z1B7nOqBklZvO7F-toOBsOpvfsuoFIrF9ztpMtZKi0qDdgvLwktVnz32nz2Pxja0w6lWx7ClgmGVHp29/s400/-2.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">For the light that guards and guides us. For the one that will always shine so bright.<br />{Photography courtesy of StraightFromTheCurls.com}</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
So tonight, on the <a href="http://canadianimmigrant.ca/uncategorized/celebrate-diwali-starting-nov-13-2012" target="_blank">eve of Diwali in Toronto</a>, I've lit a lantern as a symbol of <b>hope and peace</b>. I hope that the light will continue to shine and guide me on my journey. I hope that it will bring my loved ones peace. I've also lit it in the hopes that you, my dear reader, will always find reasons to see brightness over the dark, and that you and your loved ones will forever be surrounded by light and love.<br />
<br />
Thank you for adding to the light in my life! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Happy Diwali!</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
xo</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Simi</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-84123943850738982732012-09-23T21:09:00.001-04:002012-09-23T22:43:39.340-04:00On loss, life and the things we'll never knowI never imagined how much my life would change after my last blog post. Nor did I realize just how close to home the post on May 19th, (<b><a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2012/05/so-finite.html" target="_blank">So finite</a></b>) would hit. <br />
<br />
In it, I talked about life having an expiry date. At that time, a series of small events highlighted mortality and sent me a strong reminder that our time on this planet is limited. Little did I realize that the post was almost a premonition of what was to come.<br />
<br />
I lost my father on June 21, 2012. <br />
<br />
A few days after I wrote that last post, my father was rushed to the hospital and almost a month to that date, he passed away. <br />
<br />
Wow. I think it's the first time I've actually written those words. I've opened this blog to write many times since that heartbreaking day, and the words just never formed. But there they are -- real as this computer screen staring back at me.<br />
<br />
Yes, death is real and it will eventually touch us all. However, no one can know how or when it will happen. As desperate as we may be to look into the future to try and figure how it will all turn out, the truth is we just won't know what's been designed for us until it happens. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9QBW-EKpJATl_m9tumSq1GBk_8GvX29_g-UQWYjKz5jPHQOdOmAOMrvbJkUgq9AeiW1p1h0Q7RJjxKgax3eZ2wHUqGe5UrMndVPwYEVD9nuLXDh7s75CUjGhqYJrvjJr9Vyb0iZH9Rioh/s1600/Color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9QBW-EKpJATl_m9tumSq1GBk_8GvX29_g-UQWYjKz5jPHQOdOmAOMrvbJkUgq9AeiW1p1h0Q7RJjxKgax3eZ2wHUqGe5UrMndVPwYEVD9nuLXDh7s75CUjGhqYJrvjJr9Vyb0iZH9Rioh/s400/Color.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image courtesy of Pinterest.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I never imagined that we'd lose him the way we did. For nearly a month we had to live hour by hour while he was in the hospital. On some days we lived minute by minute. Sitting here, just about three months since that day, I'm trying to pinpoint the moment when I knew he was fading. And I can't do it. The entire journey that led to his passing wasn't stable. It wasn't consistent. And we're still struggling with so many unanswered questions. But as I was often told in the days since he passed, 'When it's your time, it's your time.' <br />
(Not comforting words, fyi.)<br />
<br />
The three months since has passing have been a blur. I didn't imagine the impact this would have on my family and I. People who've experienced such a tremendous loss in their lives often say that they become numb in the aftermath. I never knew what emotional numbness felt like until this experience.<br />
<br />
Everyone deals with grief differently -- denial, anger, inconsolable hysteria, silence. For my part, I've been trying to stay busy. Absorbed in work and holding on to moments where I don't have to be alone with my thoughts. I hang on to anything that lets me ignore my own reality. I'm coasting. Numbness -- I now know what it feels like. My choices probably aren't the healthiest, but it's what I need for now.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what the next few months will have in store for all of us. I keep thinking about how he died exactly five months to the day of his birthday. Appropriate enough, I suppose -- he always enjoyed symmetry. My mum refers to losing him as a void that we're unable to fill. She's right. Life, moving forward, will now be without him.<br />
<br />
No matter your relationship, nothing can ever prepare you for the emotional turmoil that stems from losing a parent. But it's part of living, I suppose. And an experience like this certainly shifts perspective, makes you reorganize your priorities and look at life differently.<br />
<br />
And now that I've found some words (finally), I hope I'll be able to write more. Share more. Acknowledge what has happened. Look towards the future. And I hope that the fog of the past few months will eventually lift. <br />
<br />
<i>**Thank you to all our friends and family who've stepped up and shown us support during these past few months. Thank you for your love, thank you for your strength, and thank you for your wishes of peace. We're lucky to have you all in our lives.**</i><br />
<br />
Till next time,<br />
<br />
Simi<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-9564523237336059392012-05-19T14:12:00.000-04:002012-05-19T14:19:04.531-04:00So finiteYesterday it dawned on me. It happened mid-sentence and during a thought that had nothing to do with... anything. But for the first time it became quite clear that my time on this planet is limited.<br />
<br />
I don't know why it took me so long to really absorb this truth. I mean, it's something I've always known (obviously), but it's a thought that has taken a backseat in my vehicle as I've maneuvered through life, when it really should have been sitting front row and centre.<br />
<br />
Perhaps it's because we, as humans, are coded by society to live our lives a certain way. We try to measure our own happiness and success by those around us, and by what we're told is 'right.' You know? Go to school. Study. Get a job. Get married. Have children. Work. Work. Work. Because work = success. Save all your money. Retire. Then what?<br />
<br />
I know far too many people who work so hard at jobs they don't like simply because it brings in money. However they then take that money and store it away at a bank or in investments, and never really see it. They say (the people I know) that it's to provide for their children (who don't exist as yet), and for future generations (who also do not exist as yet). And all the while these people complain about how much they hate their jobs, hate their lives and hate the people who bring them down. I hear this far too often. Do they not realize that 'someday' should be today?<br />
<br />
Not too long ago I too was in the same canoe. I was working at a job that made me quite unhappy. And I was working so hard that by the time I came home, I would pass out from mental exhaustion and sadness, with no time to enjoy my hard earned earnings. It was a vicious cycle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEHHUVI_jiGY1nYB815dab8L4UndII8FTiX4v_BSEFewBQptnNR26pmx65tzlKao83Y5vO3C8CtXqKRR_ytU2ZHxb5cEQIx_QoZ6_-xKHmoOVtgVyp7d23u2_RO3Oc7tNH_7R5TysmnrD/s1600/do+what.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimEHHUVI_jiGY1nYB815dab8L4UndII8FTiX4v_BSEFewBQptnNR26pmx65tzlKao83Y5vO3C8CtXqKRR_ytU2ZHxb5cEQIx_QoZ6_-xKHmoOVtgVyp7d23u2_RO3Oc7tNH_7R5TysmnrD/s400/do+what.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<br />
Fortunately my tides have turned, and I now work at a place that feels like home. It's not easy by any means, but it's right for me. And I'm finally learning how to balance. However, part of this balance is the importance of knowing that my time on this planet is finite. That I shouldn't put off till tomorrow what can be done today, and that if it makes me happy, I need to jump in with my heart wide open. Because chances are I won't have tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Take that trip. Quit that job. Study that program. Kiss that guy. <br /><br />Live YOUR life YOUR way. </b></div>
<br />
Do what makes you happy. Be with who makes you happy. Even if it's just for the moment. Live for the moments that make you smile naturally. Be thankful, be grateful and pay whatever good comes your way forward, because everyone deserves goodness in their lives. <br />
<br />
As I tackle this next chapter in my life, I look forward to remembering that my time is finite. And that I don't have to follow anyone else's design for life but my very own.<br />
<br />
I'm thankful for every chance I get to wake up, dust off, and embrace a new day with all the love in my heart. Because we're not promised tomorrow. We're only promised right now.<br />
<br />
xo<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="25" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="75" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
P.s. Tell someone you love them. Today. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Image courtesy of Pinterest.com</i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-5863911908858887862012-03-11T17:08:00.004-04:002012-03-11T19:21:16.371-04:007 Scrabble inspired ideasI love Scrabble. It's one of the first board games I ever received as a child, and though I didn't appreciate it as much back then, I'm absolutely obsessed with it as an adult. <br />
<br />
Trolling around the Internet lately has been quite a treat, as I've stumbled across some fantastic <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2009/07/i-like.html" target="_blank">Scrabble inspired</a> ideas I'd like to share with all of you. I'm in awe of the creative minds behind these ideas. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnPcM18Q6OcbAG-Nd8OjTiN709ePhoNoxlU8hehuHZREpzJGzeYO1pu-6U-uXG_r9kmvC7Gyi53ZR2hW5D1rb3k8zfgk2kWtrKtyQqIuqzaOaKIaSDLThSReJ0Noul1gqC-ovNdygBWD3p/s640/240801911295451688_wXzM7hjY_c.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.datamancer.net/keyboards/scrabble/scrabble.htm" target="_blank">Custom designed Scrabble keyboard</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="409" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.243053356.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69588693/2-letter-pillows-inserts-included" target="_blank">Throw pillows with Scrabble letters</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLQIuMzfsBPQEJgSYbUTBykStGMF-L2lloUisnU3rWx0PGLn_Mvm1BwHorP_atFaFvG2ydWBSkrbB0ThL8x9lwRtgh6WwZIANuQn2QlE3pQ7I9wlKSBMqNzD3qZqol-jhbUBs0k9Fk21X/s640/Scrabble-Inspiration-Board.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bridefinds.com/2011/theme-thursday-score-mad-points-with-a-scrabble-or-crossword-themed-wedding/" target="_blank">Scrabble themed wedding</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/19069998391624709_M6XVaAOH_f.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://style-files.com/2010/08/03/crossword-wall-art/" target="_blank">Scrabble inspired décor for the baby's room</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="375" src="http://i-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/sf/2-3-09-scrabble-coasters.jpg" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2008/02/scrabble_coasters.html" target="_blank">Scrabble coasters</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://laylekoncar.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451e52469e2015433783614970c-800wi" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://laylekoncar.typepad.com/6degrees/2011/07/a-little-crafty-goodness.html" target="_blank">DIY Scrabble wine charms</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://pinterest.com/offsite/?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-x-z9d4_oGq0%2FTc2MeBj3dLI%2FAAAAAAAAAEI%2F1KPUzB7u6bk%2Fs1600%2Fsa.boo.jpg&token=8aa9a7e49c5c66ead65bf2c4c0b010b7&pin=197314027393829986" width="500" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://theweddingcakeshoppe.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-love-scrabble-too.html" target="_blank">Scrabble styled cupcakes<br />
</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
What do you think? Have you seen any other fun and interesting things inspired by this classic board game?<br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Images courtesy of Google Images/Pinterest.com</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-14187026118705364692012-01-15T20:44:00.002-05:002012-01-15T20:51:27.360-05:00Word of the Day: No<i>This post is a bit of a rant, so proceed at your own risk.</i><br />
<br />
Learning new things is part of evolution. We go from being helpless babies, to learning to standing on our own two feet, to growing into ourselves (or at least, versions of ourselves), to becoming adults with a whole mixed bag of responsibilities. When we allow ourselves to learn about who we are and about the world around us, we inadvertently become better as human beings. At least that's my take on it. <br />
<br />
Part of my personal evolution (besides the obvious natural progression), is an effort to train myself in certain aspects. For instance, I had to learn to focus on tasks. When I was younger, I would spend a lot of time taking on various responsibilities, and could only dedicate small amounts of myself to each of them. I would bite off more than I could chew. I didn't think this was very productive, nor was it fair to the tasks I had taken on. As a result, I had to learn to manage time better in order to focus on these tasks. It's not a skill I came wired with. I had to train myself. <br />
<br />
Lately, I've been working on something I've struggled with my entire life: Learning to say one simple word more often—No. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswZwVU6uu9dX8f3hK55VIc00ZhA-tHN4EAwaY9B80izNGJ_y-ytTTvvLc5Zx_dBC3jsUbGwYk3Mc_fEuXfLcXkRB4g8XA3d_1HgXZDjjBxZtvUlI0F5oywpl42thsnUcavrsYNXQHk433/s1600/no1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswZwVU6uu9dX8f3hK55VIc00ZhA-tHN4EAwaY9B80izNGJ_y-ytTTvvLc5Zx_dBC3jsUbGwYk3Mc_fEuXfLcXkRB4g8XA3d_1HgXZDjjBxZtvUlI0F5oywpl42thsnUcavrsYNXQHk433/s400/no1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I can't tell you the number of times that word has haunted me. It has lived in the bottom of my throat; at the tip of my tongue; I've felt it roll from my brain to my mouth, and I've even breathed it out. Silently. But, for the life of me, I've very rarely been able to let this simple, two-lettered word move past my lips. <br />
<br />
And I'm not sure why. More often than not, I let myself get talked into doing things I don't want to do. I end up spending more time focusing on other people's problems instead of my own, and I constantly worry about what people will think, should I choose to say no. And as a result of all this, most people have come to expect me to say 'yes' to things... all the time. Even when I don't feel like it. And I think that's no one's fault but my own. <br />
<br />
So I've been making a conscious effort. You know, to say 'no' to things more often? It's been tough, I tell you, but so worth it. At first I was wracked with guilt. And for what? I'm not too sure. Catholic guilt (if it exists), perhaps? I would say no to things, then spend time coming up with explanations as to why I said it. Then I'd feel guilty. Surely "so and so" deserved to know why I wouldn't be her wing woman that Friday night?<br />
<br />
But the truth of the matter is that saying no is a right. At least I'm fortunate enough to live in a country where that's the case. I have to remind myself that I can do it. Should do it more often. Shouldn't feel guilty when I do do it. <br />
<br />
A confession? I've had to practice saying this word in front of the mirror. And it's worked. Saying this word (more than I used to, anyway), has freed up so much time for my own pursuits. And the sad reality is that it's upset quite a few people. But I wonder — should I care that I've upset people who are OK with me putting them ahead of myself all the time? I don't think so. At least I don't think so anymore. <br />
<br />
So yes. If you hear me say no, please don't take it personally. If I do it, I probably mean it. It has taken a lot of effort on my part, and I probably won't change my mind.<br />
<br />
Time is precious, and I'm (finally) learning to appreciate mine. <br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Images courtesy of Google Images</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-19187033535205495472012-01-01T20:23:00.000-05:002012-01-01T20:23:54.163-05:002012: Give It Your All<b>Happy New Year, everyone</b>! Here's wishing you and yours all the very best that 2012 has to offer. May you always have reasons to smile, and may your lives be filled with all the goodness and love that this world has to offer! <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gBHXdSaVppnfmEUFxUGypM-cEIxqLTdgP4QkhZkY6sOEfIEdCUdtgpZM82Na6W9d_rEZDLxfNo61Nulz6tsytCSpbwJZJMy5lYwWPUsBq_RNK8L3BC5JYQceuSqHe7XCoWcCoRTOtBGA/s1600/happy-new-year-graphics-09.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gBHXdSaVppnfmEUFxUGypM-cEIxqLTdgP4QkhZkY6sOEfIEdCUdtgpZM82Na6W9d_rEZDLxfNo61Nulz6tsytCSpbwJZJMy5lYwWPUsBq_RNK8L3BC5JYQceuSqHe7XCoWcCoRTOtBGA/s640/happy-new-year-graphics-09.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
I spent quite some time thinking about my first blog post for 2012. I wasn't sure about whether to do a wrap up of the year that was, or to write a post in anticipation of the year that will be. As you can see, I went with the latter choice. <br />
<br />
One of my resolutions this year is to live life in forward motion. To let go of the past and to try to be absolutely present in the now. It might sound pretty obvious to you, because why would anyone live their life any other way, right? But you'll see from past posts that I spend far too much time reflecting on what was. I think about moments that shaped and brought me to where I am at a given time. And I believe it's good to do that once in a while, but for the most part, because the past cannot be changed, it's important to keep focusing on what's ahead. And to do it with hope and optimism. <br />
<br />
With any luck, 2012 will be marked as a year where I make significant changes in my life. I'm looking forward to accomplishing more goals (personally and with my career). If 2011 taught me anything it's that I am the only person responsible for my happiness. Since moving back from Korea I've spent so much time worrying about my career, that I've lost track of other aspects of my life that are also important —my health, giving back to the community and personal growth. My goal is to get back on top of all those things this year. <br />
<br />
Over this past holiday season one of my dear aunts reminded me that every day is an opportunity to do good and to be better. She is in her mid-70s and she wakes up every day with a purpose — to live her life to the fullest, knowing that when she goes to bed at night, she can say with confidence, "I gave it my all." And that's what I want to do, because that's all I can do. Give it my all.<br />
<br />
So my wish for you, dear readers, is that you wake up every morning and do the things that make you happy. Find your bliss and revel in it. We don't need to be reminded that life is short. Money will come and money will go, no matter how much we try to control it. People will enter into our lives, and some will stay forever, while others will take off without notice. But we have to move forward. Life doesn't come with a 'pause' or 'reset' button, so we have to keep looking forward and give it our all. <br />
<br />
Lots of love,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Images courtesy of Google Images</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-71577871431455454472011-12-14T18:14:00.000-05:002011-12-14T18:14:57.861-05:00Homemade Holiday DecorationsA lot of people have skipped the designer stores this Christmas, and have taken to making <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2010/11/martha-christmas.html" target="_blank">homemade decorations</a> for the holidays. I've stumbled across some innovative ideas where regular household items have been converted into elegant decorations with the help of some tender love and care... and not to mention, some glitter and glue! Here are 10 ideas featuring some of my favourite (and easy) DIY Christmas decoration projects.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jillruth.com/2011/12/i-started-glittering-old-light-bulbs.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/99571841731071418_mVRrS96X_c.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old light bulbs repurposed into ornaments with the help of some glitter!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.shelterness.com/10-diy-christmas-candles/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk7hyPknSEsQaaXAnSGLE3El9JBLeJYli58wYzpbifExQYpwx2Xzz2_CC-DCKgMzO1d6I9VJ9Zyx4R3ryAjflOEXj4YuRztK4UzJz0_b9NdGG4mG5O-2oNxCoGGljgGpqACsplgR_heDBL/s1600/Cinnamon-Candles-500x500.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorate simple white candles with cinnamon sticks and ribbon. You can also place candles of varying sizes in mason jars and vases, and fill the containers half way up with fresh cranberries or chestnuts for a lovely holiday feel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/crafts/projects/craft-ideas-for-christmas-decorations-1209" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/116741815310314241_3oatYyHA_c.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fill clear glass ornaments with creative ideas. I like the peacock feather.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mysweetsavannah.blogspot.com/2010/11/diy-christmas-ornaments.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-po1NzfALC15LQbUnDrXyqy3tYDqovwLEF4bvMwOm1TY5CTUkspQvA2DWBb-Bu8E5f8Mqks9FlkMXpdnqxCurafO4JkG-BdQGDhayR-9pnlgEIXr2SYUlZT1KM3JgMlWcx-16TcLc2KXl/s640/scrabble+ornaments+034.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the Scrabble fanatic! Make an assortment of Christmas words with Scrabble letters.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/45387908714222633/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlYM9n-RDTUsDzpWY6kZuoiLEzf2RmziCGlXlkTQMX50d_87zrZFpVAm1MjMbi1xTUdobde1FqNfg6yKYZ8SLVPL8gFw3N34ED_yc3xykTmDb-gfD3vR4XW_DNHR-rHZd0HUfkY6yRbG_-/s640/237916792784243800_mHewppUW_c.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use sparkle spray paint on an assortment of branches, and place them in a glass vase for festive cheer. The best part about this DIY is that you can also hang mini ornaments and trinkets from the branches for a personal touch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/266879/displaying-christmas-cards" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBaGHFBmH7FUG61rcFhyphenhyphenpUpjV3wzWvAMN6Pt6KgvfjZPfPW874F7lZtRkaRCNbedI751hzgLQq0pugnpmARj9vVVEo2_9iHVKeHpORIhhYt-Bq_iqMgVLSvdXpO1TVGwSX5QvBAhREoLhI/s1600/ml811_1298_card_tree_xl.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't leave Martha Stewart off this list, could I? I love this beautiful way of displaying Christmas cards. Another simple way is by hanging ribbon from doors and curtain rods, and clipping the cards on with clothespins. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/2011/11/sheet-music-craft/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Iheartnaptime1+%28I+heart+naptime+with+Chocolate+Sundaes%29" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUsSs3Dszm4td4TjUpCAs8tIQwmus9mxCbxuPuMEfNYHkaFTqPBkEuL-z-XwsyKshIEPI8b407pgq0lMt9mWxEhWKtj_1_YTQjmdOxnLCREcPajnkYUUKbRW-WU3d64UchcbhXyoCsvr8/s640/sheet%252Bmusic%252Bball%252Bchristmas%252Bornament%252Btutorial.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the music lovers! An easy DIY project with the help of glue and some sheet music. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fleamarketstylemag.blogspot.com/2010/12/guest-blogger-post-using-vintage-papers.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGBiS1-fg9ez3NBCCM-L9QCbRO0zS12r1aKM4mrRdhzT7Mfbotx5gOYzXxxSghXAkm3xA1m7aDV0blegqV-ylgk_ddGyLaj5dCYmWrNzBw0Nnt1Ni6mw4IYmF5i2zSjweSeVPzvhUiYTwQ/s640/6a00e550aee38388340134898ee864970c-640wi.jpg" width="531" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the alternative, made with vintage newspaper and glitter. I absolutely adore this! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://freshpoppydesign.blogspot.com/2009/12/checking-it-twice.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCZ22yG27hJ5S4UQa3n-6KNbz59kwviRWuBavfv44e5AVfZGBR_qUi0ATfyqyRIEfQxbglc44yl6ASfmsRt5vnPnJcB5Jwx-ZhtczXzVDt1WorHyh6QRIj-ez3YMLLthVorgsSeDjUQyh/s640/138274651028634627_2rL9fMgR_c.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Decorate a curtain rod with ornaments hung by matching ribbons. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://matt-and-becky.blogspot.com/2009/12/12-days-of-christmas-crafts-day-5.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiroz_yyLxZ251tqnXpMq419kmAqvZmXp5jnd56bN3hqtkkyBoawnNzOFdjVUlKrL2aKE8TP2WeVCahkHeJnGtBTcE86pcz8RI9gt79ZHdNCWS6Ah-6pTgCAsdElljRiVNjRNFACIJRy0Uv/s400/ornament%252Bball%252Bwreath%252B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A beautiful DIY wreath that you can hang on your door or over the fireplace. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So there you have it — 10 fun and easy DIY projects for Christmas. Do you have any favourite craft projects for the holidays?<br />
<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
<br />
<br />
Images courtesy of Google Images and Pinterest.com</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-36865243311158541192011-12-12T12:10:00.012-05:002011-12-12T18:28:01.218-05:0010 Unique Christmas TreesOne of my favourite <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2011/12/festive-baking.html" target="_blank">holiday traditions</a> as a child was setting up the Christmas tree with my family. We had a fake one that we reused every year, along with an assortment of antique ornaments (mostly angels and baubles in different colours and sizes). Every year I'd anticipate the beginning of December because it meant the tree would come out of storage, and we'd proceed to adorn it with the usual trimmings — complete with cotton balls to mimic snow. (The joys of growing up in a tropical country!) <br />
<br />
There's something absolutely magical about <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2010/11/martha-christmas.html" target="_blank">tastefully decorated</a> Christmas trees, isn't there? The lights, the tinsel, the ornaments — the entire package can add warmth and comfort to a room in an instant. <br />
<br />
I have decided to dedicate this blog post to a few friends who share my love for Christmas trees. I've curated 10 lovely images featuring fun and creative trees that I'm sure you'll adore. Some are uniquely trimmed, and others are traditional to different parts of the world. Cheers!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.recyclart.org/2010/12/christmas-tree-from-the-designpack-gallery/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.recyclart.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/sapins_malraux_03.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recycled for Christmas</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mymodernmet.com/profiles/blogs/christmas-tree-for-book-lovers" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240801911295603628_KrprArFz_c.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For book lovers everywhere!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images2.fanpop.com/image/photos/9500000/Sushi-Christmas-Tree-random-9563297-450-574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="574" src="http://images2.fanpop.com/image/photos/9500000/Sushi-Christmas-Tree-random-9563297-450-574.jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Treats of Sushi</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.friis-co.dk/blog/archives/1244" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="704" src="http://blog.friis-co.dk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/xmas2.jpg" width="490" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Objects of My Affection</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.toxel.com/inspiration/2008/12/11/unusual-and-creative-christmas-trees/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="600" src="http://www.toxel.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/ctrees5.jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">99 Bottles of Christmas...</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://weirdnews.about.com/od/weirdphotos/ig/Weird-Art/Weird-Christmas-Tree-Made-Of-Bicycles.htm" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://idlowongan.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/coloures-bicycle-christmas-trees.jpg" width="406" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All I want for Christmas is a bicycle... or two.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://azweird.com/img/arts/2010/Nov/17/750/potato_christmas_tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://azweird.com/img/arts/2010/Nov/17/750/potato_christmas_tree.jpg" width="433" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taters and Tots for Christmas</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://azweird.com/art/unusual_christmas_trees-750.html"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trendytree.com/image-gallery/christmas-trees" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://www.trendytree.com/images/cms/gumdrops-jellybeans-tree-window_550x550.jpg" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gumdrops and jellybeans, oh my!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gamingprecision.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/pac-man-christmas-tree-in-madrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://gamingprecision.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/pac-man-christmas-tree-in-madrid.jpg" width="479" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pac-Man for the win!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://gamingprecision.com/2011/10/holiday-2011-release-schedule.html/pac-man-christmas-tree-in-madrid"></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://loveisinthedetails.ca/blog/2009/12/10/christmas-trees/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="650" src="http://loveisinthedetails.ca/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/ginseng-christmas-tree.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginseng Roots for all! (This one takes me back to my days in South Korea.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
For more fun and festive trees from around the world, check out this <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/news/christmas-trees-world-gallery-1.12652" target="_blank">awesome slide show</a>, over at NYDailyNews.com. What do you think of these trees? Do you have a personal favourite? If you have your own collection of unique Christmas tree images, you can always share them on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/straightfromthecurls" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
<br />
<br />
Images courtesy of Google Images</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-23810576827719033942011-12-09T13:41:00.005-05:002011-12-09T15:00:16.069-05:00Festive BakingWe're almost at mid-December, and I'm starting to get into the festive spirit. I've always enjoyed baking, and I think the Christmas season begs for some relaxing time spent in the kitchen. Yes, I said 'kitchen' and 'relaxing' in the same sentence! <br />
<br />
Nothing brings me more joy over the holidays than setting aside time to listen to carols, while baking festive treats for friends and family. How comforting is the smell of freshly baked shortbread? What about ginger molasses cookies? These smells send me into a state of nostalgia —the good kind! The kind where every one of my senses gets engulfed in happy memories. <br />
<br />
So I thought I'd take this opportunity to share some of my favourite recipes with you. These aren't family secrets (I'll save those for another post... maybe!), but they're a blend of tried and trues, and ones I'd like to attempt over the holidays this year. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/cookies/lemon-pecan-shortbread-cookies/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/94223817173494038_EIh1E05B_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Classic shortbread cookies</b>, all dolled up for the holidays. Shortbread cookies are my standard go-to when it comes to baking. Easy, delicious, and SO much fun to decorate.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.zupas.com/2010/12/recipe-chocolate-candy-cane-blossom-cookies/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/105623553730261694_ZEIkTKTa_c.jpg" width="495" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I get especially excited over Christmas time because Hershey's brings out their Candy Cane Kisses. These beauties are <b>chocolate peppermint cookies with Candy Cane Kisses</b>. A delicious blend of some of my favourite things! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/nestle-chocolate-chip-cheesecake/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUXveHwIQAWr5vvDTLHNG48Z-ZvbADf5nwHwy6hobKfBUxkrEqKzFGubrUbf0ENHkZmuzxbY2e3PbQPy3UH0qjHewLJr1XOOfe6GFMGtat6DzQwju3Tn9LAZlp7FXUPO_FFfqu0yFT7cs/s1600/cheesecake-su-653421-x.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my best recipes for family and friends is this delicious<b> chocolate chip cheesecake, with an Oreo cookie crust</b>. It took me a few tries to get it right, but now it's a recipe I turn to at almost any celebration. </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sophistimom.com/vanilla-bean-cupcakes-with-strawberry-buttercream/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="338" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5490633577_6aaeaf0262_z.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend Melissa baked these fantastic <b>vanilla bean cupcakes, with strawberry buttercream</b> during a get together this past weekend. She found the recipe online. The cupcakes are delicious by themselves, but the buttercream is unbelievable. She took fresh strawberries and mixed them in a food processor, then added them to the buttercream. The result? Buttercream that tastes more like strawberries than sugar. Delicious!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.finecooking.com/recipes/spiced-rum-fruitcake.aspx" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="333" src="http://www.finecooking.com/CMS/uploadedImages/Images/Cooking/Articles/Issues_101-110/051108039-01-fruitcake-recipe_xlg.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love 'em or leave 'em, no Christmas bake-a-thon is complete without a classic <b>rum fruitcake</b>. My mother has a great recipe that she turns to every year. She even soaks the fruit slices in rum, months ahead. The smell of the cake baking in the oven sends me into nostalgic overdrive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So what are your festive baking plans for Christmas? Do you have your own tried and true recipes you turn to? Or perhaps you're attempting something new this year? Do you have any secret recipes passed down through the generations? I'd love to hear from you. <br />
<br />
Whatever you find yourself doing in preparation for Christmas, I hope you have fun! I hope you're surrounded by love and laughter, and that your experiences give way to wonderful memories you'll cherish and turn to in the years to in the years to come. <br />
<br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Images courtesy of Pinterest.com and Google Images</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-21812853667501803382011-11-30T22:31:00.001-05:002011-12-09T13:32:25.013-05:00Twinkle HappyI've found a new guilty pleasure online. It's this fantastic site called <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, and I'm absolutely hooked. I posted an entry a few months back with some lovely images I found on that site — <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2011/08/paper-inspired.html" target="_blank">Paper Inspired</a>. It's actually one of the most popular posts on this blog. <br />
<br />
So since we're into December, and with the holidays just around the corner, I thought I'd share some of my favourite images that add a little twinkle to my day. These are also easy do-it-yourself projects, which can completely change the ambiance in your space. Who knew you could do so much with mason jars?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240801911295456812_6n1l75Tm_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240801911295456812_6n1l75Tm_c.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lc65tl6m0M1qcvyvyo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lc65tl6m0M1qcvyvyo1_400.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiSnZx1tVldEOviCLFoNZ9vsV_yrUqpr6Ea0tDJyYzf4Er-nWb7dmlxPPdtQcqiZx91wrdMx8oFRFOkOuI_zYdjt7aZSlze5ezkcl4FdPuKGfrs-n5wj4VNcEbF4c1Cji8pg5qdmLP_Lt/s1600/6338824206_148d35a9eb_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipiSnZx1tVldEOviCLFoNZ9vsV_yrUqpr6Ea0tDJyYzf4Er-nWb7dmlxPPdtQcqiZx91wrdMx8oFRFOkOuI_zYdjt7aZSlze5ezkcl4FdPuKGfrs-n5wj4VNcEbF4c1Cji8pg5qdmLP_Lt/s400/6338824206_148d35a9eb_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240801911295467088_whhTl02B_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/240801911295467088_whhTl02B_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01lqurnqirg-AAidB-QhFwlZ7toAldDI_uzcR9E_gF22kobRv4JZSCck56IXCzJm77_13dGljd_pP697YBKQ2yKLATBUD9rTFXvKDPaq2My22xj4LJVXxcSeGw32fa-Q97wojxOu-eptk/s1600/009_primary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01lqurnqirg-AAidB-QhFwlZ7toAldDI_uzcR9E_gF22kobRv4JZSCck56IXCzJm77_13dGljd_pP697YBKQ2yKLATBUD9rTFXvKDPaq2My22xj4LJVXxcSeGw32fa-Q97wojxOu-eptk/s320/009_primary.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEw1Ah62MVA7RZtIeIRRwjgG_c5m0sgMfa_Lsdztt06il2Env7ZPRvi2qCkD-PE4d8NCaUAeptOPcIa7Gy5o06k_sNFBnAnwEDnvxNoeYl4rahDqW502ewb381D38fliTWiVhQXx3UzLm/s1600/il_570xN.249101807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEw1Ah62MVA7RZtIeIRRwjgG_c5m0sgMfa_Lsdztt06il2Env7ZPRvi2qCkD-PE4d8NCaUAeptOPcIa7Gy5o06k_sNFBnAnwEDnvxNoeYl4rahDqW502ewb381D38fliTWiVhQXx3UzLm/s400/il_570xN.249101807.jpg" width="400" /><br />
</a></div><br />
xoxo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="76" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Images courtesy of Pinterest.com</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-60556749123627978622011-11-30T11:36:00.000-05:002011-11-30T11:36:46.063-05:00Quit the QuietI'm horrified at how long it's been since I posted a blog entry. <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/">Straight From The Curls </a>used to be my safe place. I would find solace in my writing. I would come here to de-stress and share little pieces of my life with you. And for the past few months it's been impossible to spare a few moments to just breathe and let my thoughts process. <br />
<br />
I don't like how things are at the moment, so rest assured that one of my resolutions for the coming year will be to find my way back to Straight From The Curls on a more frequent basis. 2011 will go down in history as one of the most tumultuous years of my life. There have been health scares, career ups and downs, utter confusion about life choices, and moments when I've truly felt alone in this big world. Perhaps it sounds a bit dramatic, but I can say with certainty that I am coming out of a messy mid-twenties crisis — partially of my own making, and partially the result of external factors. <br />
<br />
On the plus side, this year also acknowledged a couple of positive firsts in terms of my career — editing my first nationally produced magazine and a monthly stint as a health columnist. Two things that I only dreamed about a couple of years back. It's been a tough year, but I got what I asked for, so I've been lucky. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOAiFUT9XYszf2OGA9VoUtTSBtxWPuSMSvRw8zBjmIpn6InCHEw8ThV65ksLpwmmZNBHOiAtTyQfGo8N-yURmR62KoTCTyVXLHR5PrDmp0WHMJDHcH1GIICiUVu731iWIUx_psam_CObP/s1600/240801911295491816_YUy09jQv_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOAiFUT9XYszf2OGA9VoUtTSBtxWPuSMSvRw8zBjmIpn6InCHEw8ThV65ksLpwmmZNBHOiAtTyQfGo8N-yURmR62KoTCTyVXLHR5PrDmp0WHMJDHcH1GIICiUVu731iWIUx_psam_CObP/s1600/240801911295491816_YUy09jQv_c.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I'm making a few changes in 2012. It's funny how people get so introspective at this time of the year, huh? For one thing, I've been reducing my lists on social media. I think it's great that 'Sally' from elementary school wants to become friends on Facebook, but if the only reason she's adding me is to troll around my profile and not say a word, then chances are, Sally, I'm going to delete you asap. <br />
<br />
Isn't it funny? Did you ever think in, say... 2002, that this would even be a problem 10 years down the road? About someone from your past who you've made no efforts to stay in touch with, all of a sudden resurfacing, and with the click of a few buttons goes on to find out about what you've been up to since your grade eight graduation? Not cool.<br />
<br />
Life certainly has changed a lot in the past decade. And it's weird, but I think more and more people are remaining static instead of changing along with the ebbs and flows of life. We're spending way too much time in front of a computer screen, watching other people live their lives, instead of actually making our own memories. Adding chapters to our own lives. <br />
<br />
I know that for now, I won't be able to fully disconnect from social media. It's part of my job, and it's part of how I share my work. In fact, as soon as I publish this post, it will appear on my <a href="http://www.twitter.com/simonecastello">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/straightfromthecurls">Facebook</a> feeds. But I'm hoping I can change the way I use social media. I'm hoping that it's something I can turn to when I need it, as opposed to logging on out of habit. Someone referred to it as social media snacking. <br />
<br />
Definitely need to cut back on the social media snacks. <br />
<br />
xo<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s1600/Picture%252B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="30" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6RUZmIfmk7gtHTMh9SrCf2Sn9b5FD-VvlND34cGNdp1hY-cE6YigDfwC1hLX0lq7rdMdjvEKZ891q12jLYEl7tolLyINeaOXkK2yoIWSsjZG4imqI_r5fJuPMVhjlk8n_-TpVYIWLq_c/s200/Picture%252B1.png" width="75" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
<br />
<br />
Image courtesy of Pinterest.com</i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-90958934100950015012011-10-31T21:12:00.000-04:002011-10-31T21:12:09.692-04:00Happy Halloween<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuoZodxV76EMfSsseq6TPrWaA4DL1ltERWOtPGu4xPEUEkbcp2JLLiFSPYlzgkFVmKz_ONnJSNdbd4p5cRH91yTaSU8K0wTAkAcpeuM89-HV_sr7yVdYN13mW23k1RULsRSFXaSHx-ei1/s1600/1030-greatpumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuoZodxV76EMfSsseq6TPrWaA4DL1ltERWOtPGu4xPEUEkbcp2JLLiFSPYlzgkFVmKz_ONnJSNdbd4p5cRH91yTaSU8K0wTAkAcpeuM89-HV_sr7yVdYN13mW23k1RULsRSFXaSHx-ei1/s400/1030-greatpumpkin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-70067933565180577602011-10-31T20:36:00.000-04:002011-10-31T20:36:27.802-04:00Guest Post: The Happiest Rooms<div style="text-align: left;">Hello, I’m Joanna, a writer for <a href="http://www.arcadianlighting.com/" target="_blank" title="Lighting Fixtures">Arcadian Lighting</a>, a great source for beautiful lighting. My work takes me daily around the world (via the Internet) on a mission to find the most incredible interior designs and furnishings on the Web. Thanks to <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/"><b>Straight from the Curls</b></a> for letting me share with you! </div><br />
Bright colors make us happy, energize us, and generally, make us feel good. When creating a home with bright colors, decorating ideas are seemingly limitless. Whether you add pops of color with colorful glass <a href="http://www.arcadianlighting.com/" target="_blank" title="Light Fixtures">light fixtures</a> or lots of color with a brightly-hued area rug, you’ll find it brings joy to your everyday life. Here are some of the happiest rooms around!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Rooms" class="size-full wp-image-15510 aligncenter" height="672" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/1-Happy-Rooms.jpeg" title="Happy Rooms" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This warm orange sitting area feels very Indian with its carved settee, textured fabrics and lovely tasseled pillows. An adjustable floor <a href="http://www.arcadianlighting.com/" target="_blank" title="Lamps">lamp</a> adds a modern touch to an otherwise classic space.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Rooms Chandeliers" class="size-full wp-image-15511 aligncenter" height="635" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms Chandeliers" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cheery lemon-yellow chairs brighten this transitional space while light blue walls reflect ambient light from the room’s large windows.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors Lamps" class="size-full wp-image-15512 aligncenter" height="400" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/3-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms Lamps" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lemon and lime furnishings brighten this city apartment with its pale gray walls and floor. Yellow panels on the windows welcome the natural light in to illuminate the room even more.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors Lamps" class="size-full wp-image-15513 aligncenter" height="738" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/4-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms Lamps" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We’ve been having a romance with turquoise for awhile now. We see it everywhere: on walls, floors, beds, pillows and even <a href="http://www.arcadianlighting.com/" target="_blank" title="Lighting Fixtures">lighting fixtures</a>. This room, with its high white floor and furnishings, enjoys a bit of color with a boastful blue wall.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors" class="size-full wp-image-15514 aligncenter" height="429" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/5-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We love, love, love this pink and white dressing room! A fun floral lining in the open-faced armoire and on the pouf, make way for the brilliant fuchsia of the accent walls and rug.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors" class="size-full wp-image-15515 aligncenter" height="666" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/6-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The color of nature, green (in all its hues) is everywhere. This living room is a perfect example of how shades of green can flow together to create a cohesive and naturally happy environment.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors Lamps" class="size-full wp-image-15516 aligncenter" height="393" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/7-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms Lamps" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In such a traditional setting, one might think lime green and aqua inappropriate. We beg to differ, this room makes us smile, especially those curvy green lamps and their interesting shades.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Bright Interiors Ceiling Lights" class="size-full wp-image-15517 aligncenter" height="604" src="http://blog.arcadianlighting.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/8-Happy-Rooms.jpg" title="Happy Rooms Ceiling Lights" width="500" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This room is so energetic and fun…I love the floral ceiling. The crisp light flowing through the large windows highlights a sumptuous purple rug.</div><br />
Discover a wide variety of design ideas to suit your every mood over at <a href="http://www.arcadianlighting.com/" target="_blank" title="Light Fixture">Arcadian Lighting's blog</a>! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilM9LCRp1ZC7iP35UqwaA73DrTD7OX_Mps7q2VtOk5CjXHkwN49T7ComrJFmYy3VvvH-mowzu56aN_gXe_Cz9GuDn7l2WOIxkNEjNu_mNd5nZkhB4x-8h9HNqwFVXvyeYZVETBXUpl4Yp7/s1600/v2-logo.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="57" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilM9LCRp1ZC7iP35UqwaA73DrTD7OX_Mps7q2VtOk5CjXHkwN49T7ComrJFmYy3VvvH-mowzu56aN_gXe_Cz9GuDn7l2WOIxkNEjNu_mNd5nZkhB4x-8h9HNqwFVXvyeYZVETBXUpl4Yp7/s200/v2-logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><span style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% rgb(255, 255, 255);">Arcadian Lighting is the best source for lighting fixtures and accessories at discount prices. Arcadian Lighting has been in the lighting industry for over 15 years selling decorative home lighting fixtures and lamps online, and has become one of the top Internet retailers for home lighting products.</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-85183418442436032472011-09-29T21:09:00.004-04:002011-09-30T11:39:47.609-04:00A World Without Jerks?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMZzVbJ0Ftwmf5CWS3uDHe4kByqhGP_3pVH3pYvqfuy8tz7G5YBnwDQxkl3Vl9ZXFLuH6JgCQhuFWvwU-VhJ0DdyMkupou62HyN2dNCEq_jcnHwNqFZ4CWOvyxtdawQKLixWKZgSirfvT/s1600/logo_900px.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="75" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghMZzVbJ0Ftwmf5CWS3uDHe4kByqhGP_3pVH3pYvqfuy8tz7G5YBnwDQxkl3Vl9ZXFLuH6JgCQhuFWvwU-VhJ0DdyMkupou62HyN2dNCEq_jcnHwNqFZ4CWOvyxtdawQKLixWKZgSirfvT/s400/logo_900px.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Generally speaking, we're a bunch of jerks. We really are. I don't know if it's because I've experienced a terrible couple of incidents over the last few hours, but right now, I've got a general distaste for humanity.<br />
<br />
A few months back I noticed a new ad campaign become prevalent on TTC billboards in Toronto. The campaign, featuring simple graphics and text, is part of this movement encouraging people to do good. It's called the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/pages/People-For-Good/221818201178949?sk=info" target="_blank">People For Good</a> project. <br />
<br />
When I first stumbled across it, I couldn't help but smile, because I thought, <i>"Wow! Here's a group of people who truly want to do well by this world. What a refreshing use of ad space!"</i><br />
<br />
As time went by I began to notice more of these posters, and not just on the TTC anymore. The campaign had spread to the street, stores, and to bus shelters across the city. <br />
<br />
I never really thought Toronto was a bad city, you know? I never thought it was filled with people who turn to anger before kindness, and selfishness over simple human consideration. I mean, I understood the point of the campaign, but I didn't think we needed to be reminded of it everywhere we went... <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1032545--honest-to-goodness-there-s-no-catch-with-this-ad-campaign?bn=1" target="_blank">to choose good</a>. <br />
<br />
But after my experiences this evening hit a boiling point, I realized just how essential it was. The sad reality is that we NEED to be reminded to do good. To be good. To choose good. <br />
<br />
Today was a good day. After a stream of not-so-good days, I welcomed the end of my working hours, and headed to to the <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2010/12/open-letter-to-toronto-transit_07.html" target="_blank">subway</a> for my daily ride home. I stopped off to pick up my October metro-pass at the TTC booth, and after paying with my debit card, I asked the collector for a receipt. This request was met with a series of angry remarks from him, along with demeaning comments at a very loud tone:<br />
<br />
<i>"You already have your debit receipt!"<br />
<br />
"You already have a receipt in your hand, why do you need another one? Can't you see what's already in your hand?" </i><br />
<br />
<i>"What the hell is wrong with you? Are you stupid? Woman, just get out of here!" </i><br />
<br />
My request was simple: I asked him to provide me with an additional receipt to go along with my purchase, because another TTC employee had informed me in previous months, that this was needed for my own accounting purposes. But the employee from today's incident didn't want to hear it. Instead of explaining it to me simply, or asking me for my reason, he chose to yell and humiliate me in front of a growing line of customers.<br />
<br />
If I didn't need an additional receipt, he simply had to tell me. If he didn't understand my request, he simply had to ask me. There was no need to yell. <br />
<br />
Anyway, I walked away feeling about two feet tall, and completely embarrassed. All because I made a simple request. And for the record, I always pay with my debit card, and when I ask for a receipt, other TTC employees always provide a written one... that includes their signature and employee number. <br />
<br />
<i>*Deep Breath*</i><br />
<br />
So suffice to say, my good day did a 180 and turned utterly horrible from this single incident. An incident that could have been avoided with simple customer service (that the <a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2010/12/open-letter-to-toronto-transit_07.html" target="_blank">TTC </a>prides itself in delivering), active listening and understanding. <br />
<br />
Then, while I was getting on the train, I saw a young man standing in the doorway while people were trying to get on. He was blocking the entrance, and making people walk around him, while he stood there with his backpack. <br />
<br />
After a number of people squeezed through, one older man said, "<i>Do you mind moving in a bit please? There's people trying to get on."</i><br />
<br />
This simple comment made the young man so angry. The audacity that someone asked him to move in and show some consideration to the people trying to get on the train. <br />
<br />
He smirked and responded with,<i> "Show some respect! Why do you care where I stand?"</i><br />
<br />
Really? Show some respect? You're saying this to an older man who is asking <i>you</i> to show some consideration. The way I see it, you and your 15-year-old self have a lot to learn about respect. And of course he cares where you stand. We all do! Especially when where you choose to stand is making it difficult for other people to get into the train. <br />
<br />
Most days, I just really don't understand people. <br />
<br />
And then I got to thinking about <a href="http://www.peopleforgood.ca/" target="_blank">this campaign</a>. Wow! How desperately do we need it? How desperately do we need to be reminded that life doesn't have to move at a thousand miles a minute? That we don't need to be so quick to jump to judgment. That a wee bit of understanding can make such a huge difference in situations, and in life all together. <br />
<br />
What's to gain out of being mean? All you're doing is hurting someone else. I understand that some situations warrant quick wit and rebuttal, because let's face it -- some people deserve what's coming to them. But in everyday behaviour? What do we have to gain by being rude? Unless you're some sort of sadist who thrives on the misfortune of others and from making people feel beneath you. If that's the case, I feel sorry for you. Life is about so much more than sitting on a high chair and looking down your nose at people. <br />
<br />
There's something to be said about really connecting with people. About listening. About paying attention to things that don't necessarily involve you. About having points in your day, week, month, where you choose selflessness and kindness. <br />
<br />
Doing good and seeing the reaction you get from your actions -- the smiles, the aura that changes from one of darkness and doom to hopefulness? There's nothing quite like it. It fills your soul and it becomes contagious. <br />
<br />
So try it. Choose good. Do good. And watch how the wave spreads and takes over humanity. There really is no catch. <br />
<br />
Call me a hopeless optimist, but I truly believe (down to my toes) that it's possibl/ <br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2zM_HyMS4mlMUQQ_M-0_dT1O6MOtyj_G8BkXs9EgpRyQ3hmLkgUDaNbvijzMZkRqAUNIyVt_uYv7EjYRS68qJOkdcWTrpo79k1_TznBgFYDGMEB7bcamqVBOO8C3LvdbjUzEWQXZHz46/s1600/web-ad-good08rb_1295748cl-8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2zM_HyMS4mlMUQQ_M-0_dT1O6MOtyj_G8BkXs9EgpRyQ3hmLkgUDaNbvijzMZkRqAUNIyVt_uYv7EjYRS68qJOkdcWTrpo79k1_TznBgFYDGMEB7bcamqVBOO8C3LvdbjUzEWQXZHz46/s400/web-ad-good08rb_1295748cl-8.jpg" width="400" /></a></center><br />
<br />
xo<br />
Simi<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Images Courtesy of Google Images</i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-39822081915350340832011-09-11T22:01:00.003-04:002011-09-11T22:58:29.471-04:009/11 - You May Say I'm a Dreamer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.straightfromthecurls.com/2009/06/imagine-peace.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Bi2BWztHgGI/SkZSSdOLPqI/AAAAAAAAAPo/4_Z6yTVFd9E/s400/9_ono_peace.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>"You may say I'm a dreamer. </i><br />
<i>But I'm not the only one. </i><br />
<i>I hope some day you'll join us. </i><br />
<i>And the world will live as one." </i><br />
- John Lennon </div><br />
A lot of people have spent today reflecting on their whereabouts exactly 10 years ago. Almost everyone can perhaps remember where they were, and what they were doing when they found out the twin towers in New York City had come down, as the result of a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/September_11_attacks" target="_blank">terrorist attack</a>. <br />
<br />
Me? I was one week into my grade 11 year in high school. I can't quite remember which class I was in while it was happening, but I do remember where I was when I found out. Our second period English teacher had been called away with the rest of the staff for an 'emergency meeting.' When she came back into the classroom, she looked pale and obviously shaken up. She, then, choosing the best words she could muster given the situation, proceeded to tell us that there was an 'attack' in New York City, and that we wouldn't be on a regular schedule for the rest of the day. Little did I realize that the schedule I'd known up until that point, would never be the same again. Not for me. Not for the rest of the world. <br />
<br />
2001 was a pivotal year in my life. I turned 16 that summer, to a lot of chaos, both personally, and externally. I never realized that the events of that year would have ramifications so far into the future.<br />
<br />
I'm not going to go into details about my thoughts on the fact that this tragedy has resulted in more wars and hate crimes in our world. But suffice to say, I don't think we've learned anything since the tragedy that was 9/11. That, in and of itself, is it's own kind of tragedy.<br />
<br />
I do believe, however, that a new generation with a new understanding has emerged -- one that strives for peace, and is fueled by hope. It's inspiring. <br />
<br />
But there are still a lot of people in power -- the decision makers and influencers -- who are choosing not to promote change for the better. They're encouraging hate in political platforms, and are drawing lines among citizens who should be working together for the common good. They're promoting fear, when they should be encouraging hope and love. <br />
<br />
Call me dramatic, but this is just how I see it right now. I sometimes catch the broadcasts on conservative news networks, and get goosebumps. I can't believe people are allowed to stand on their soapboxes and say the things they do. It's all so heartbreaking. <br />
<br />
Here's my hope. <br />
<br />
I'm hoping that 10 years from now, we'll be able to look back as a world that's managed to piece itself together. That we're encouraging peace and taking the time to break down walls. That we're teaching our children to think and act with love in their hearts, rather than hate. And that our priorities remain more focused on engaging in discourse where we're actually listening to each other, instead of focusing on getting the last word. <br />
<br />
It might be a tall order, but a girl can imagine, right?<br />
<br />
I'd like to end this post with one of my favourite singers, Neil Young, performing a tribute cover of John Lennon's iconic song, Imagine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="345" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/R15uLXHqMyo" width="420"></iframe></center><br />
<br />
Here's wishing you, dear readers, lots of love and peace, from my heart to yours. <br />
<br />
xo<br />
Simi<div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7641751980069049259.post-61149186651053476742011-08-24T17:24:00.000-04:002011-08-24T17:24:12.019-04:00A Mini-BreakWell, folks, as of tonight, I'm off on a mini-break. I'll be seeing a dear friend exactly a year to the day we last saw each other, and I'll be taking in the sights and sounds of a city I've only heard wonderful things about. I can't tell you how excited I am. Here's hoping the tornado watch over Toronto lifts within the next 12 hours, so I can get on my flight, and head to my destination of choice. <br />
<br />
Here are some hints as to where I'll be for the next few days. A follow-up post with photos is definitely in the cards, so stay tuned!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/118513296_PHAPFfea_c.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/118513296_PHAPFfea_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/28502880_hCaEOfBr_c.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/28502880_hCaEOfBr_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="299" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/114419742_ZJvnAZIt_c.jpg" width="400" /></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/125983992_gkS6jGUv_c.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/125983992_gkS6jGUv_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
xo<br />
Simi<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Images courtesy of <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest.com</a></i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">http://www.straightfromthecurls.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss</div>straightfromthecurlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05239845035056930077noreply@blogger.com0