I love a good movie and lately I've seen a couple produced by the BBC. The first was "Made in Dagenham", a true story taking place at the Ford Motor Co. in 1968, about a group of women, considered "unskilled labour" who go on strike for equal pay with men. The second was "West is West", a sequel to "East is East" and a wonderful tragic-comedy that turns out perfectly in the end. I always like to parallel my worlds so I found the BBC location in my second world and decided to see what was showing there.
The ad in front of the theatre listed "I expect Joan feels the same" which was a great film to watch yesterday since it was Memorial Day, in the United States. It told the story of two English widows who lost their husbands during the Second World War.
The movies produced by the BBC always have a variety of topics and can be documentary or fiction and frequently attract big-name movie stars to play parts in their films. The BBC in world change their films frequently and also offer other events to participate in. Go watch this film while it's still showing. It is fairly short but it gives you insight into what women went through during this period of history.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eye makeup: Mozz Cosmetics winged eyes (pink-green) Hair: Truth Hair Saffron Nails: SN shiny red nails
Top: SMS Simple dress (top only)(brown) Skirt: The Secret Store Chiffon silk kerchief skirt Belt: BOOM skream ring belt Boots: Slink Marina boots (tan)(50L Friday)
Rubies can be found in all shades of red, from dark red to blood red, or some have a pinkish hue. Rubies are very strong and hardy. They are extremely resilient. However almost all rubies have flaws. Those without imperfections are exceptionally rare. Often rubies are associated with passion, for life and for love. Oh my!! I think I'm describing us, aren't I?? We are all RUBIES!
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eye makeup: Mozz Cosmetics colorful winged eye (brown) Hair: W&Y Hair casual cool (gift) Nails: Adam & Eve manicure (plum)
Tee: Fri. layering tank scoop (pumpkin) Jacket: R.icelli MARIA mini jacket / # liberty Skirt: The Sea Hole silk crepe skirt (juiced) Shoes: Baiastice Maxine wedge (mother of pearl)(Shoe Fair 2011) Hat: LaGyo bowhat Jojoba (modified)
I love books. I always have a "book-on-the-go". Consequently, any article on libraries peaks my interest and the other day I read an interesting one about the changing environment of libraries and the role that the librarian plays. I know several people who say, "Oh libraries are like dodo birds. They're gone! Everything you need to know is online and it's so easy to find things." Oohhh that gets me riled up!! Yes, libraries need to change. Electronic resources are so important for research. Ebooks can be cheaper texts than buying the hard copy one and you always get the most up to date version. The Internet is a valuable tool for getting information. BUT!! You have to know how to search for positive results or it could be a waste of precious time. For that you need a qualified media specialist (usually a librarian) to show you the fastest and most efficient way of retrieving data.
The first time I went to university, I knew nothing about searching the proper way. I floundered for a few months. Thank goodness for a kind and patient librarian who helped me through my undergraduate years. She showed me how to retrieve material from qualified sites for maximum effect in my papers. A library definitely needs someone like that.
Today's academic library has an information station, as this one in McMaster University Library, where you can use your laptop and check the online catalogue at the same time.
There are also study pods or rooms as here in McGill University Library. This place provides group study where discussions can take place, where Wifi is enabled, where a librarian is always ready to help.
Read this interesting article and find out one person's opinion on the future of the library and how librarians need to evolve to keep current in the future.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eyelashes: Glow Studio Innocent Hair: Truth Hair Riley
Carrots have such a good reputation. They're low in fat and calories, usually inexpensive and even available all year round in my cold winter climate. They also seem to last a long time if kept in the refrigerator. Carrots can be eaten raw or cooked. You can use them in soup, salads, or desserts. Such a versatile veggie. If you eat them you can "see in the dark". They're a great source of Vitamin A.
Traditionally carrots have been a bright orange colour but recently they have been bred to make other colours - white, yellow, red and even purple. And this week we have even produced a "neon carrot".
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Lipstick: LeLutka Lola orange Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair: Calla Willow-herb Nails: Love Soul Nail colour (orange)
This weekend will be a long one for me and it will be so nice to have Monday to laze around and do barely anything. Victoria Day is celebrated on the last Monday on or before May 24th, in honour of both Queen Victoria's birthday and the current reigning sovereign's official birthday.
In England, the monarchy is patriarchal but Victoria's father's three brothers died and had no living children to inherit the throne.
In 1837 when Victoria was only 18 she became queen and ruled until her death in 1901, serving a period of almost 64 years. Following her death, May 24th was made Empire Day in Britain but in Canada it was officially known as Victoria Day and became a Canadian statutory holiday.
On Victoria Day, it's protocol to fly the Union Jack from sunrise to sunset on all federal government buildings across the country, as long as there is a second flag pole available to display the flag, since the Canadian flag must be flown at all times.
It's great to have a holiday and it's especially good when you remember why you have that holiday. So for this day, it will be fun spending the day eating hot dogs roasted over the fire and watching the fireworks at night. Happy Holiday! Good Night for now. I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair: Ploom Twila Blouse: Myself Barbara T-shirt (white) Pants: GF capri jeans (wine red) Sneakers: Sand Shack Surf Couture Boardwalkers Belt: Fri. wide waist belt (fruit punch) (gift) Earrings: Caroline's Jewelry Large hoop earrings (silver)(gift) Flags: Flag package SL Marketplace Fireworks: Belle's Store
Pink is not my favourite colour by any means but I did find it in my closet. Wonder how it got there?
So I wondered what I could write about pink when I'm not crazy about it. I thought...and I thought. I do like pink roses. My aunt likes to drink a Pink Lady now and then. Pigs are kind of cute. Well, I guess that's about it.
Blouse: Latte polka dot tulle tunic (pink) (group gift) Skirt: JANE a little lace skirt (blush) (free in store) Boots and purse: Indyra Originals Chasseu boots and fab boho (pink) (50L Friday)
Ah yes! It is Friday the 13th but answering the question in my title, no, I do not have an irrational fear of Friday the 13th. However, when I'm armed with my rainbow and pot of gold, my lucky bamboo, my lucky horseshoe, my favourite boots with a 4-leaf clover in my mouth, I feel protected.
It seems that Friday the 13th is the most widespread superstition. Some people will not plan anything for this day. Of course a wedding would not take place, a trip could not be taken, or even eating in a restaurant is out of the question for some. But certain events are purposely planned. Four of the Friday the 13th movies opened on this day; the first album of Black Sabbath was released on this day; and, bikers in Canada congregate in a small town every Friday the 13th.
Am I superstitious? Hmmm...maybe a little...spilled salt, black cats...but not that much. However, I did check my calendar and today is the only Friday the 13th in 2011. Whewww! Safe for another year!
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Lipstick: LeLutka Lola deep red Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair: Mirone GiGi Nails: Love Soul nail color (copper)
Olive olive. In fact Olive any green colour but Olive olive a lot. Olive is the kind of green that can blend in with olive the colours Olive.
Olive wearing this olive dress and taking a picture of olive me in these poses. Olive everything today I guess.
Oh dear!! I better start writing better blogs than ones Olive to do....STOP IT!!
Good Night for now. I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eyelashes: Glow Studio Hollywood lashes (Greta Garbo) Hair: ETD (now Elikatira) Anya Nails: Love Soul nail color (copper)
Dress: Mimikri Julie (olive)(Easter gift 2010) Tube top: Miel Motube top (toffee) Shoes: Gos Shoes Espadrilles (sand)
I come from a long line of strong women and as Mother's Day approaches, I always think of the women in my family who were before their time.
What have they given me? My Great Grandmother, born in the late 1890's, gave me a sense of adventure. She travelled alone to Europe as a young woman before it was appropriate. My Grandmother, born in 1907, gave me the sense of choice. She was a vegan when she was just 13 and way before it was the "in" thing to do. My Mother, born in the '40's, gave me the push for independence. She kept her maiden name when she got married even though her employer threatened to fire her. Now here I am. I'm very secure in who I am. I choose to do what I believe is right for me. I'm rarely influenced by others, even though I can be wrong in my decisions. And when I am wrong, I accept responsibilities for my choices. So what have I done to make my mark? Maybe that's yet to come but I do know I'm very secure in who I am. I'm what I am because of these strong women who will be remembered by me on May 8th. These women are no longer with me and many times I wish that I could ask their opinion or their thoughts or give me their guidance but somewhere in me lies the explorer, the trail blazer, the woman always straining against the norm. Thanks to the Great Grandmother, the Grandmother and the Mother that I loved so much.
To all the Mothers who cook daily, clean forever, drive limitlessly and love unconditionally, have a well deserved day.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eyelashes: Glow Studio Hollywood lashes Greta Garbo Hair: Laqroki Thrill Hair accessory: Lelka's ribbon headband (black silk)(SL Marketplace)
Sweater: DeLa sweater Emilia (black) Skirt: DeLa skirt Liza (black) Stockings: Insolence Lingerie Carmen Pantyhose (black) Shoes: Maitreya slinky stilettos (black leather)
Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo, a national holiday in Mexico, commemorating the unexpected Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The battlefield is now a park in Puebla which I visited a few years back. To celebrate this day, I decided to take my picture in a field of agave and of course that brought tequila to mind.
"Tequila is Mexico", I read as a quote and I think that's a true statement. Technically tequila is a mezcal, from the agave plant but gets its name from the specific region of Mexico from where it comes.
There are five types of tequila with the blanco type being the most popular and ending with the anejo which has been aged for at least three years and is rare, with a brandy-like taste.
I do like tequila as a drink but it's especially nice to cook with. It makes a great marinade and puts a nice tang in sauces. Tequila goes particularly well with chicken or shrimp.
When I think of the colour this week for Luna Jubilee's challenge, tangerine, it brings a song instantly into my head - Tangerine by Led Zeppelin. I grew up listening to Led Zeppelin's music. Their music served as a lullaby. It was to skip rope too. It provided "coolness" to show off to your friends. And later, it returned memories. I was young when Led Zeppelin made it on the record scene and it gives me a jolt of inspiration when I hear it now. Enjoy!
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eye shadow and lashes: Mozz Cosmetics winged eye with lashes (brown) Hair: Oh Hair Oh my Mohawk Nails: Love Soul nail color (orange)
Last September, I was lucky enough to be invited to an incredible art display by Mathilde Vhargon and this year, I was honoured to be invited again to her newest exhibit.
Being rather new to the art scene has not intimidated Mathilde at all. Her exhibit is a bold expression of her talent. When you walk in the door at Gallery Four, you are immediately surrounded by bright happy colours, ethereal and mystical illustrations.
The colours in most paintings are vibrant but are not overpowering.
While some are abstract in nature, there are two paintings that depict landscapes.
There are none of her sculptures or photographs in this exhibition but it's obvious her designs have taken a lot of time and care to produce. Each painting demonstrates her eye for detail.
I suggest you visit Gallery Four between now and May 15th to see Mathilde's exhibit. You can also see more of her work at Two Shores Gallery. It's an exciting show and it amazes me of all the talent we have in this world.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair with hat: W&Y hair #160 (lucky board) Nails: Je Suis...Naive nails No. 001 (blues)
Dress: Myself sita sweater dress (baby blue) Jacket: Storin Patricia jacket (black) Shoes: Maitreya slinky stilettos (black leather) Purse: Septem Essentia Croco Kelly-type bag (black)
Ahhh...the ubiquitous Periwinkle [vinca minor]...beautiful to look at, comes in many shades of colour, adapts well but can take over when it feels welcome. See for yourself.
Oh my! Was that a personal statement?
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eye shadow and lashes: Mozz Cosmetics winged eye with lashes (silver blue) Hair: Oh Hair Oh my holiday Nails: PXL Creations manicure Blue #3
Sometimes it's wonderful to participate in a little self indulgence once in awhile. This morning was one of those times that I did. Breakfast in bed is not my idea of a great start to the morning. I prefer to be up and running as soon as my eyes open but when the week has been abnormally busy and this Easter weekend seems to be a couple of days of cooking, cleaning, cooking and cleaning, I needed time to rejuvenate. So this morning I did it! Coffee is the best first thing in the morning even when it's extra HOT!
And then what I enjoy most is getting caught up on my reading.
It didn't last long but it was SOOOO sweet when it was happening. It was awfully hard crawling out of this comfortable bed.
Happy Easter! I hope you all get a chance to rest and relax over this holiday.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair: Tiny Bird Sodom South Georgia (not sure still available) Glasses: Oddities Gallery MKN Beat glasses
It's been 41 years since Earth Day was started to promote environmental issues. Close to 200 countries now participate in this event. We all should be aware of the environmental problems that we have and try to make a healthier world by making small changes in our lifestyles. Here are some fun facts from a past Earth Day but still relevant today.
And are you ready to create a healthier world this April? How will you do that? What will you give up?
I will try my best this year.
I will read a book, enjoy the sunlight, and watch the water on the lake. I plan on using less energy by unplugging my computer, turning off the television, not using my cell phone and taking the stairs at work. I'm going to eat a vegan diet since livestock contributes to the world's greenhouse gas emissions. I'm going to "declutter" my closet and not buy anything soon. I plan to "recycle, reduce and reuse" even more than I do now. Wherever you live, Canada, or U.S.A., or Europe or Asia on Earth Day, let's try to make a small contribution to help our planet.
Good Night for now. I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Hair: Calla Yellow tulip
Tee: Canada T-shirt (no longer available) Jeans: Coco salopette (light blue) (group gift) Shoes: IBizarre Karma sneakers Locations: Top picture: Artis Natur Middle and bottom pictures: Loving Earth
There's not much I can find that's redeeming about eggplant ...."egg-cept" the colour. I do like that. But I did find an "egg-cellent" recipe thanks to Bon Appetit It is a great appetizer with pita chips or raw veggies.
1large eggplant (about 1 1/4 pounds)
3tablespoonsolive oil, divided
1/2cupdrained canned garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
1 1/2tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
2teaspoons(generous) tahini (sesame seed paste)
1garlic clove, minced
2teaspoonschopped fresh parsley
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut eggplant in half lengthwise, then score flesh in crisscross pattern at 1-inch intervals, 1/2 inch deep. Rub cut sides with 1 1/2 tablespoons oil; sprinkle with salt. Place eggplant on rimmed baking sheet, cut side down; bake until tender, about 1 1/2 hours. Cool slightly, then scoop flesh into processor (discard skins). Add garbanzo beans, remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil, lemon juice, tahini, and garlic; puree until mixture is almost smooth. Transfer to bowl; stir in parsley. Season hummus to taste with salt and pepper.
And that's about enough eggplant for me.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Mila / HUSH Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eye shadow & lashes: Mozz Cosmetics colorful winged eye (with lashes purple-gold) Hair: W&Y #154 Nails: Je Suis..Naive Nails #001 purples Top: Zaara Yauvani top (lilac) (RFL edition) Skirt: The Sea Hole gathered twill skirt (with stockings) (eggplant) Shoes: GField bow stiletto "Kate" (plum) (group gift) Poses: doremi (<3 how now; two hand touch) (Pose Fair)
Ah yes! Canada is headed for another federal election in three weeks. This makes 4 elections in 7 years and I'm beginning to wonder why. Politics baffle me but I do know that the Conservatives (the party in power) fell to a vote of non-confidence on March 25 and that meant another election.
So the question is....who do I vote for?
There are more than 5 parties in Canada but often they have no people running. I know I can't vote for the Bloc since I don't live in Quebec. We don't elect the Prime Minister as they do the President of the U.S. I'm not a "party" person. I'm more of a "people" person so I probably will vote for the person who I think would be the best in Parliament. The topics that all candidates are discussing run from families, to health care, to the economy but no mention of environmental issues and Canada certainly is lacking in that department. So you can see my dilemna. ERRGGGHHH... Canadian politics can get confusing at times.
I guess within the 3 weeks left for me, I'll have to listen lots, read lots and think lots. I love the quote about voting credited to Al Capone: "Vote early and vote often"! Oh yes...Dear Diary...the French debate, scheduled for tonight, was cancelled because the Habs are playing the Bruins...hockey precedes everything.
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Lola (light) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eyelashes: FTL lashes 502 Kirei Hair and hat: HAIR & HAIR Milagros Nails: Love Soul Nail Colors (orange)
Ahhhh yes! The title is of a book that brings back childhood thoughts. My Grandmother was a vegan when it wasn't fashionable to be so. She relied on this book for many recipes, covering casseroles, muffins, jellies and even wine. It was written in the '70's by Euell Gibbons who was the first to put out a cookbook about edible wild plants, and was reprinted in the '90's. This colour challenge, difficult as it was to find that particular colour in my closet, brought back many gastronomical memories.
Here's my asparagus -ness!
Good Night for now.
I'm wearing: Skin: LeLutka Ava (light) (gift) Eyes: Miriel Hazel (no longer available) Eyelashes: LeLutka 2011 lashes / long Hair: EMO-tions Big in Japan (gift)
Blouse: MichaMi Fearne in green Skirt: JANE a little lace skirt (eucalyptus) (gift) Shoes: GF flat shoes "Little Diva" (moss)
