hello pretty

Today my friend and jewelry expert Rhonda Riche from one of my most favourite blogs - graciousgood - suggested we meet up at Toronto Antiques on King as a start to my attempt to try and sell my grandmother's china. After chit-chatting to a dealer about my china, Rhonda and I looked and many. many lovely jewelery pieces. Oh so many things to dream about including the above hand painted fly ring. I'm going to guess and say it is Victorian, I could be wrong here as Rhonda is the expert not me. Isn't it fabulous, I love, love love it.
I'm also quite smitten with this cameo necklace. Full-bodied cameos are rare ( I learned today) and the chain, too sweet. After we finished spending our imaginary money, we went over to Queen street and popped into a vintage store where Rhonda couldn't help but place G.I Joe in front of this landscape painting, looks like he is really there doesn't it, hut - huh?

new boots, new yarn, and a new haircut

This was one perfect day. I decided to do a little shopping before heading over to get my hair cut and it was success all-round. First stop, Get Outside on Queen west to look for much needed winter boots. I knew I wanted Sorels but which ones? After trying on four different styles I settled on the caribou's in slate - bring on the snow 'cause I'm ready. Then, I went into Americo at 577 Queen street west. If you have never been, please oh please make the trip. This is a Canadian yarn company which carries high-end, all natural fiber yarns produced for them in the Andean highlands of south America. And, if yarn isn't your thing, they also have gorgeous blankets, throws, cushion covers, merino wool fabric by the metre, handbags, and the best selection of trimmings and notions. Finally, I went to The Cabinet Salon for a much needed hair appointment. The Cabinet Salon is the creative collaboration of Emma Rose and Alex Macdonald. Emma has cut my hair for the past five or so years and when she was unavailable, Alex stepped in. It goes without saying that I am so happy that they have joined forces and opened their own business. The space is gorgeous, light-filled and welcoming - just like Emma and Alex.

one fine day

Today was an exceptionally fine day. It started with a few hours soaking in the many waters at The Body Blitz spa with one of my best friends-Rhonda. We were so relaxed that we were actually light-headed when we left and in need of food so we checked out Sadie's Diner and juice bar a new spot at 504 Adelaide street west. I had the huevos rancheros, Rhon had the breakfast burrito and we both had the chocolate, peanut butter, banana smoothie ( actually Rhon had two) and who could blame her because they were delicious. Actually, everything was great: the company, the food, the decor ( I am coveting a paint by number of John Wayne), the service, everything.

I heart Nadege

Last night I went to a press event for Nadege a most wonderful patisserie at 780 Queen street west. Executive chef and co-owner, Nadege, is as delightful as her product which includes, pastries, artisan sandwiches - on their own fresh baked bread, teas, beautifully designed sweets that are almost too pretty to eat, a wide selection of flavoured marshmallows, but my favourite has to be the macarons. Imagine light, crisp cookie wafers sandwiching a variety of thick and creamy ganches. I suggest trying the poppy, and rose - truly the best thing I have had in a while. Why I didn't I bring some home - I blame the free champagne.

huh?

Okay, I'm on the streetcar going to work and I glance out the window and see this is what I see outside the Travelodge at Queen and Bathurst.
I have no more words.