Some colours are just meant for spring time. When I came across this gorgeous chocolate and pistachio cakelet at Farm Boy, I knew it was coming home with me. The origin of my sweet treats can be humble but my enjoyment begins with the presentation. How do you enjoy yours?
Home decor is a bit of an obsession. On weekends you can find me haunting big box home decor stores and small one-of-a-kind boutiques in search of treasures. Or in an indulgent moment, with a glass of wine in hand, pouring through a design magazine that arrived in the mail (sorry Mother Earth but I’m still partial to paper).
I have owned homes and rented and over the years I’ve managed to learn a thing or two about decor. It can be one of the most simple yet difficult things to do; Be both frustrating and rewarding. It can make you miserable or happy.
So whether you’re on a budget or not, here is my #1 tip: ADD PINK! I know this sounds scary to many who cringe at the thought of this sugary feminine colour, and would rather dip their paint brush into something black, or even worse, beige… but hear me out.
There is a fine line between childish and chic when it comes to pink. Covering every surface in this bright hue could easily transform any room into a seven year old’s princess paradise, but just a touch of rose is the perfect accent to any design palette. Think of it like a swipe of lipstick. Or that pop of blush on your cheeks after a great workout. It makes you look and feel more vibrant. It’s nature’s perfect accent!
Flip open any design magazine or style book and you will find gorgeous pink flowers dotting the pages. The colour provides a warmth and vibrancy to spaces without taking away from the design aesthetic. From blush to fuchsia, you can pair pink with a large array of colours to achieve whatever theme you’re after.
Add it to white or black for modern, crisp design, or pair it with natural colours and materials for a boho look. Scattered in the midst of other strong hues of blue, yellow, or green it can bring life to an eclectic space. Or you can go ultra sexy and glamorous by adding it to light neutrals alongside some sparkle and soft, luxurious textures.
So go ahead and throw on your rose coloured glasses, life really is better in PINK!
I’d love to hear how you add my favourite colour to your space.
During the most recent wave of warmth and sunshine to grace London, I was inspired to venture outdoors in search of some Mediterranean cuisine. For a long time now, I had heard rumours of a restaurant hidden in the downtown core renowned for not only their food but also the service. With an eye out for this Greek oasis calling to me like a siren song, I answered the lure of the Mythic Grill.
Although the restaurant boasts a small patio which is extremely popular in the summer months, we make ourselves comfortable in the small, jewel coloured interior of the restaurant. The design aesthetic is definitely not minimal or pared down but envelops with a rich, dark vibe that automatically makes it an intimate, romantic experience. And making great use of my knowledge of ancient Greek archaeology, I catch the nod to Crete’s history and it’s ancient Minoan culture in the form of inverted columns and the wall paintings.
But I’m not here for a history lesson. I’m here to satisfy my craving for great homemade Greek cuisine. With a little prompting from our very attentive waiter, we make our final selections.
We start with the salty Saganaki appetizer that comes with a shot of flaming ouzo and an obligatory “Opa” that I could do without. However, there is absolutely nothing wrong with this gorgeous hunk of melted cheese once it hits the mouth. We don’t even bother with the accompanying pita so as not to spoil the taste.
As for the entrees, I chose the traditional moussaka tower of beef, eggplant and bechamel sauce, while the boy satisfied his seafood craving with a plate of fried calamari and roast potatoes smothered with creamy tzatziki. The food was so plentiful that I didn’t have enough room for dessert, especially after looting some of the delicious morsels from the plate across from mine.
Mythic Grill did not disappoint. In fact, based on our brief experience, I wasn’t surprised how quickly the dining room filled up in a restaurant that doesn’t take reservations. However, from the numerous greetings exchanged between the guests and waitstaff, it was clear that this restaurant has a loyal following. And now they can add another two to their growing list of fans.
Spring is here!!!! I’ve been waiting to say those three little words for what seems like EVER! And first day temperature didn’t disappoint either. As I walked outside at lunch time, I closed my eyes and turned my face to soak in the warm rays like a starved flower. Hope you’ve had a gorgeous day and now can sit back and enjoy these weekend links!
Original art work by Katelyn Tippin
With temperatures this weekend showing some signs of warming up, it’s the perfect time to head outside and explore. The boy and I love finding ways to celebrate local art and culture, and after receiving a tip I knew I had to share this with all of you!
Just 15 minutes outside of London, a FREE winter event will spark your creativity and imagination. The St. Thomas Railway City Arts Crawl features 40 artists in a dozen locations displaying paintings, installations, scultpture, and even jewellery. There is nothing more exciting than meeting talented people who produce original artwork and having the opportunity to chat with them in person.
The event starts tonight from 6 -9 PM and runs until tomorrow afternoon 11-5 PM. Be sure to pick up the event passport, which also serves as a guide to the venues and artists, and collect stamps at each location. A stamped passport will qualify you to win some amazing prizes!!!
And if that wasn’t enough, a firework display and a deliciously catered After Party with live music at the Midtown Tavern will cap off the night! So I urge you to find some FUN in FEBRUARY and head out to the Arts Crawl!
