Andrew hasn’t, for the most part, believed me when I’ve told him Marley loves to play and romp. He is usually in the basement watching TV late at night when Marley decides it’s happy time, or is in bed during our early morning adventures. Try as I might to ensure Andrew is witness to her antics, it has yet to happen. She is just too shy.
So yesterday, before the snow came, Marley and I played. And I was a clever dog-mama this time—I had my video camera!
Wednesday 29 October 2008
Monday 27 October 2008
Marley and Me
Hi Sweet Girl.
We are so happy to have you in our family. You are finally home. Home to warm hearts and gentle hands. Home to snuggles and love. We are here to play with you, and train you, and help you feel safe, and confident, and strong, and adored.
So far, you are Mommy’s girl—staying by my side, though at times shying away or tucking out of sight. We understand you are nervous. Your early days, weeks, months were rough. It is so important for puppies to be socialized and loved, and it saddens me deeply that this was not the case for you. Experts suggest we take it slowly, using play and kindness to ease you out of your shell. That’s easy. They also suggest we take you everywhere, to meet new people and experience new sights and sounds. The morning bus stop is great for that. Lots of dogs, neighbours and friends to welcome you to the ‘hood.
The last two nights, you have come alive. Once the boys are tucked away for the night, you track my whereabouts and indicate with a little romp that you want to play. So down I get, on all fours—looking like a goofball, I’m sure—and we play. You are so silly! Scampering about my room, chasing Jazzy’s old rope toy which, by the way, she pampered for eight years without so much as breaking a thread! My, she would be alarmed at the rate you are tearing it apart! That’s okay. You are having a grand time, and that makes my heart sing.
This morning, upon my arrival to your crate, you wagged your tail with such gusto. You’re such a wonderful sleeper. No whines, peeps or barks! Outside we enjoyed no fewer than 257 rounds of Fetch. It is such a joy to see you run back and forth—tongue hanging out the side of your mouth, tail flying behind you, ears perked—bringing me your toys, and waiting for them to be thrown again and again. Wouldn’t it be a dream to remain in that state—happy, carefree, fearless. Alas, once you are tuckered out, your timidity returns. Especially if somebody dares try to join in on the fun. Someday, I will have witnesses to your smiles.
In the meantime, we will be patient. And we will love you with everything we have.
Welcome home, Marley.
[ You may have noticed Marley’s right eye is closed. She does open it, but it is quite sore due to a condition called Entropion. This occurs when the eyelid curls in, causing lashes to scratch the surface of the eye. We are awaiting a surgery date, when this will hopefully be corrected. My gut tells me this has a lot to do with her nervousness. ]
We are so happy to have you in our family. You are finally home. Home to warm hearts and gentle hands. Home to snuggles and love. We are here to play with you, and train you, and help you feel safe, and confident, and strong, and adored.
So far, you are Mommy’s girl—staying by my side, though at times shying away or tucking out of sight. We understand you are nervous. Your early days, weeks, months were rough. It is so important for puppies to be socialized and loved, and it saddens me deeply that this was not the case for you. Experts suggest we take it slowly, using play and kindness to ease you out of your shell. That’s easy. They also suggest we take you everywhere, to meet new people and experience new sights and sounds. The morning bus stop is great for that. Lots of dogs, neighbours and friends to welcome you to the ‘hood.
The last two nights, you have come alive. Once the boys are tucked away for the night, you track my whereabouts and indicate with a little romp that you want to play. So down I get, on all fours—looking like a goofball, I’m sure—and we play. You are so silly! Scampering about my room, chasing Jazzy’s old rope toy which, by the way, she pampered for eight years without so much as breaking a thread! My, she would be alarmed at the rate you are tearing it apart! That’s okay. You are having a grand time, and that makes my heart sing.
This morning, upon my arrival to your crate, you wagged your tail with such gusto. You’re such a wonderful sleeper. No whines, peeps or barks! Outside we enjoyed no fewer than 257 rounds of Fetch. It is such a joy to see you run back and forth—tongue hanging out the side of your mouth, tail flying behind you, ears perked—bringing me your toys, and waiting for them to be thrown again and again. Wouldn’t it be a dream to remain in that state—happy, carefree, fearless. Alas, once you are tuckered out, your timidity returns. Especially if somebody dares try to join in on the fun. Someday, I will have witnesses to your smiles.
In the meantime, we will be patient. And we will love you with everything we have.
Welcome home, Marley.
[ You may have noticed Marley’s right eye is closed. She does open it, but it is quite sore due to a condition called Entropion. This occurs when the eyelid curls in, causing lashes to scratch the surface of the eye. We are awaiting a surgery date, when this will hopefully be corrected. My gut tells me this has a lot to do with her nervousness. ]
Wednesday 22 October 2008
Tuesday 21 October 2008
We’re expecting, and it’s a girl!
You’re missing me… I know. I can hear, from across countries and continents, your sobs of “Oh, where, oh where, is today’s JoeGirl post?”
I have been a little—okay, a LOT—distracted this week. We have news. Big news. No, not that big. But big enough. Big enough to not be able to focus on work, of the paying variety or the icky house variety. Big enough to spend every minute surfing the web in preparation. Big enough to be running through girl names in my head both night and day! Big enough to want to shout it from the rooftops…
“We’re getting a new dog!”
It has been over a year and a half since we said goodbye to our sweet Jasmin. I never thought I would be ready to love another dog so soon. We have been dog-sitting lately. To help our friends of course, but also to satisfy my doggie-cravings. They’ve been great, great dogs: Bear, Zeke and Zoe, and Bear again. Upon Bear’s most recent departure, I realized I was actually sad—and most definitely lonely—without him here.
And so I began to look. Local rescue operations and humane societies post available dogs online. To say I’ve only just begun my search would be a lie, as in fact, I have been looking since not long after Jazzy’s passing. Most required homes with older kids. A few along the way have seemed ideal, but my heart just wasn’t ready.
Almost two weeks ago, or thereabouts, I sent an email to B.A.R.K about one of the dogs listed on their website, Karma. No reply. I sent another. Again, no reply. Feeling quite anxious, I picked up the phone—a huge indication I was serious this time. I spoke to Nadine, who told me a bit more about Karma. As a family, we decided to meet her.
And so we did, just this past Sunday. She is lovely. Extremely shy and timid, but with time, patience and love, she will surely come around. She is almost six months old now. Already house- and crate-trained, and knows some basic commands.
Karma, at four months
I saw her again today, as I submitted the adoption agreement to her foster Dad. She seemed to recognize me this time, which of course made my heart sing.
We intend to change her name—to make her our own—but are torn between Heidi and Marley. We will wait to have her home to make the final choice.
She is due to arrive at noon on Thursday. I simply cannot wait.
I have been a little—okay, a LOT—distracted this week. We have news. Big news. No, not that big. But big enough. Big enough to not be able to focus on work, of the paying variety or the icky house variety. Big enough to spend every minute surfing the web in preparation. Big enough to be running through girl names in my head both night and day! Big enough to want to shout it from the rooftops…
“We’re getting a new dog!”
It has been over a year and a half since we said goodbye to our sweet Jasmin. I never thought I would be ready to love another dog so soon. We have been dog-sitting lately. To help our friends of course, but also to satisfy my doggie-cravings. They’ve been great, great dogs: Bear, Zeke and Zoe, and Bear again. Upon Bear’s most recent departure, I realized I was actually sad—and most definitely lonely—without him here.
And so I began to look. Local rescue operations and humane societies post available dogs online. To say I’ve only just begun my search would be a lie, as in fact, I have been looking since not long after Jazzy’s passing. Most required homes with older kids. A few along the way have seemed ideal, but my heart just wasn’t ready.
Almost two weeks ago, or thereabouts, I sent an email to B.A.R.K about one of the dogs listed on their website, Karma. No reply. I sent another. Again, no reply. Feeling quite anxious, I picked up the phone—a huge indication I was serious this time. I spoke to Nadine, who told me a bit more about Karma. As a family, we decided to meet her.
And so we did, just this past Sunday. She is lovely. Extremely shy and timid, but with time, patience and love, she will surely come around. She is almost six months old now. Already house- and crate-trained, and knows some basic commands.
Karma, at four months
I saw her again today, as I submitted the adoption agreement to her foster Dad. She seemed to recognize me this time, which of course made my heart sing.
We intend to change her name—to make her our own—but are torn between Heidi and Marley. We will wait to have her home to make the final choice.
She is due to arrive at noon on Thursday. I simply cannot wait.
Friday 17 October 2008
Palette: Grapevine
One of my favourite colour combinations for beadwork lately: plum and peridot green. These beads were part of the assortment I used to create a stunning silver leaf and bead necklace for my birth-Mother, Leesa. Didn’t think to take a photo of it… sorry.
If I had a daughter, chances are good her room would be a sweet interpretation of this palette.
“Grapevine”: Pantone 5195, 4995, 370, 366
Pantone is a colour system used primarily by graphics professionals and offset printers. As always, if you’d like to know paint equivalents for these colours, simply post a comment with your request, and I will be oh-so-happy to oblige!
• Oct 18th Update: Leesa graciously photographed her necklace and sent it along to be included here. When worn, the beads and sterling silver leaves fall gently along Leesa’s collarbone, making it look a lot less rigid than it does here.
Thursday 16 October 2008
Disgusted
Okay. Here’s the deal. I live in a community known for its proximity to the landfill site used throughout the Ottawa region. It’s a huge eyesore, and some folks claim it stinks up the place. I have never smelled it from my house, but driving by the dump on hot, muggy days of Summer does result in car windows being put up in a hurry.Everybody complains about the dump. And it’s only getting bigger. Sure, the folks who manage it are making efforts to pretty up the place—well thought out landscaping disguises it from the road and adjacent highway, and grass has been encouraged to grow on what is affectionately referred to as “Gull Mountain”, among other not-so-niceties. The management company is also known and recognized for supporting local events and fundraising efforts throughout the region. I think they’re doing an okay job NOT being the junk yard dog.
Nonetheless, as local residents, we don’t want the dump to grow, or to be stinky and full of unnecessary garbage.
So why… WHY do people insist on throwing perfectly good, usable, sell- or donate-able items to the curb on garbage day? Yes, early birds do drive through the neighbourhood looking for loot to throw in the back of their truck and sell at the flea market on Sunday. But for the most part, this stuff ends up on the top of Gull Mountain for all the world to see—and smell.
Today, in my very own respectable, intelligent neighbourhood, I drove by garbage piles containing a TV table, a dining room light fixture, computers, chairs, and landscaping bricks. Geez.
What about donating these items to Good Will? Neighbourhood Services? The Salvation Army? Or make a few bucks by selling it all on Ebay? Craig’s List? Kijiji?
On average, we—a family of four, with Jake still pissing through 4-5 disposable diapers a day—put out maybe HALF a garbage can of waste each week. It would be significantly less if we had a compost bin, or if our municipality participated in the Green Box program, which takes compostable items away, including disposable diapers. Our recycling amounts to much more—typically two large, overflowing boxes every week. Neighbours have commented on how little we have on our curb each week.
How do we do it? We try not to eat over-processed, over-packaged foods, or buy over-packaged merchandise. And we recycle every single crumb of accepted plastic, metal, paper and glass that we possibly can. Every. Single. Crumb.
Pretty simple.
What do you do to keep your household waste to a minimum?
Smart Canucks + Smart JoeGirl Readers!
Yay! Last evening, I received an email from the folks at SmartCanucks.ca, letting me know JoeGirl had been chosen as their first Canadian Blog Feature! My gut did a few somersaults, then wretched in horror, as I realized my current JoeGirl post was less than typical and, in fact was… pathetic.
I hopped over to SmartCanucks.ca to see what had been written about JoeGirl, and was actually quite relieved. Boo was clever enough to work my dry spell into their editorial, and asked readers to visit JoeGirl to make recommendations!
Before I bow down to those of you who did, I want to tell you quickly about SmarkCanucks.ca—and don’t stop reading just because you are South of the border, or elsewhere in the world. Not only does SmartCanucks track Canadian sale flyers, freebies, contests, promotions, coupons, rebates and other special deals—oh no! They also offer money-saving tips and tricks, regardless of your currency and location. And who doesn’t want to save a few bucks here and there? I just can’t imagine how they keep on top it it all! Kudos to SmartCanucks.ca!
So, to those of you who so generously offered me your support and encouragement, suggestions and advice yesterday… I thank you. I really needed some motivation, and you delivered in spades. The best blog audience ever, of this I am certain.
Melanie: Your blog never seems to be scarce on content. I often read yours in an attempt to stir something up for my own! I love your magazine idea. I’ll consider setting up some ‘departments’ to streamline my subject matter, and play within those guidelines. Awesome feedback!
Site ::: One in 36Million
Csquaredplus3: You have quickly become one of my favourite readers—and reads! Your comments are always helpful and encouraging. Thank you! I’ll try to reciprocate more than I have been lately ;)
Site ::: Csquaredplus3
Nancy: Wow! My first SmartCanucks referral! Thanks for visiting JoeGirl. I hope you return often! I like your ideas. I do try to touch on my graphic design work a bit, mostly in terms of downloads to help readers become better organized (hit Freebies in the “JoeGirl Talks About…” cloud, to the left)…, but for a closer look at my graphic design portfolio, you can always check out my corporate website at indetail.ca
Site ::: SpiffyKerms
Katie: Thanks for the encouragement. I have always preferred quality over quantity in most other aspects of my life, so you’re right. I shouldn’t be so hard on myself! Hope to see you at JoeGirl again soon!
Anonymous: Yes! Thanks for the brutal honesty—I asked for it!
les_mason_curt: Sweet Leslee, you’re just saying that because you won my first-ever giveaway and are looking for more cards ;) Kidding. You are adorable, and adored. Thanks for your feedback ;)
Site ::: Phillips101
Mightyattom: Holy cow. JoeGirl is “the most real and genuine experience (you’ve) had on the Internet in a really long time”??? I don’t even know how to respond. Wow. Thanks.
Verygoodyear: Awesome advice. Thank you. Glad you like my Etsy stuff too! I need to add more cards up there. Any requests?
Site ::: It Was A Very Good Year
QuirkyChrista: Christmas table ideas? Great idea! I’ll start working on that! Love your photography!
Site ::: Quirky: An Oddity of Behaviour
Thank you again to everybody who commented, and everybody who didn’t but came for a visit anyway.
Stay tuned…
I hopped over to SmartCanucks.ca to see what had been written about JoeGirl, and was actually quite relieved. Boo was clever enough to work my dry spell into their editorial, and asked readers to visit JoeGirl to make recommendations!
Before I bow down to those of you who did, I want to tell you quickly about SmarkCanucks.ca—and don’t stop reading just because you are South of the border, or elsewhere in the world. Not only does SmartCanucks track Canadian sale flyers, freebies, contests, promotions, coupons, rebates and other special deals—oh no! They also offer money-saving tips and tricks, regardless of your currency and location. And who doesn’t want to save a few bucks here and there? I just can’t imagine how they keep on top it it all! Kudos to SmartCanucks.ca!
So, to those of you who so generously offered me your support and encouragement, suggestions and advice yesterday… I thank you. I really needed some motivation, and you delivered in spades. The best blog audience ever, of this I am certain.
Melanie: Your blog never seems to be scarce on content. I often read yours in an attempt to stir something up for my own! I love your magazine idea. I’ll consider setting up some ‘departments’ to streamline my subject matter, and play within those guidelines. Awesome feedback!
Site ::: One in 36Million
Csquaredplus3: You have quickly become one of my favourite readers—and reads! Your comments are always helpful and encouraging. Thank you! I’ll try to reciprocate more than I have been lately ;)
Site ::: Csquaredplus3
Nancy: Wow! My first SmartCanucks referral! Thanks for visiting JoeGirl. I hope you return often! I like your ideas. I do try to touch on my graphic design work a bit, mostly in terms of downloads to help readers become better organized (hit Freebies in the “JoeGirl Talks About…” cloud, to the left)…, but for a closer look at my graphic design portfolio, you can always check out my corporate website at indetail.ca
Site ::: SpiffyKerms
Katie: Thanks for the encouragement. I have always preferred quality over quantity in most other aspects of my life, so you’re right. I shouldn’t be so hard on myself! Hope to see you at JoeGirl again soon!
Anonymous: Yes! Thanks for the brutal honesty—I asked for it!
les_mason_curt: Sweet Leslee, you’re just saying that because you won my first-ever giveaway and are looking for more cards ;) Kidding. You are adorable, and adored. Thanks for your feedback ;)
Site ::: Phillips101
Mightyattom: Holy cow. JoeGirl is “the most real and genuine experience (you’ve) had on the Internet in a really long time”??? I don’t even know how to respond. Wow. Thanks.
Verygoodyear: Awesome advice. Thank you. Glad you like my Etsy stuff too! I need to add more cards up there. Any requests?
Site ::: It Was A Very Good Year
QuirkyChrista: Christmas table ideas? Great idea! I’ll start working on that! Love your photography!
Site ::: Quirky: An Oddity of Behaviour
Thank you again to everybody who commented, and everybody who didn’t but came for a visit anyway.
Stay tuned…
Wednesday 15 October 2008
I need your help.
I have no idea what to write. I know I should write every day—and I want to! That is what I originally set out to do here at JoeGirl. I know I have loyal readers, who I feel I disappoint if I fail to write something particularly witty or informative. Even my Mom checks in every day to see what I have come up with, and inquires when I have missed a day or two. Fact is, I feel pressure. I don’t write well under pressure.
A few of my first posts were really good, but I seem to have lost my sense of wit when it comes to refreshing JoeGirl entries. Lately I have been focusing on practical, informative posts. And while everybody likes a good tip now and then, I feel like they are a cop-out for me. I would much rather write a sarcastic, silly or senseless tale about a daily situation or scenario. But frankly—as the saying goes—I don’t get out much, so new and inspiring circumstances rarely come along.
So, I am coming to you for advice. Should I keep pressuring myself to write every day, just for the sake of writing, or do I wait for the right story to come along, and share it when it does?
You tell me.
What have been your favourite JoeGirl posts, and why?
What topics do you feel I tackle best?
I need brutal honesty here, if I am to continue with JoeGirl.
What I need most are your comments! Just below every post in pink uppercase letters, there is a little “COMMENTS” link. If you click on that word, you will be presented with a box in which to leave me a note. If you choose to select the Anonymous option, please at least leave your initials. I do read every comment. In fact, I THRIVE on them! It’s the only real way I know anybody is reading. Sometimes, I even reward you for leaving comments, with gifts and prizes!
So c’mon, JoeGirl readers! Let me know you’re out there, and what you want to read!
As always, thank you for reading JoeGirl.
A few of my first posts were really good, but I seem to have lost my sense of wit when it comes to refreshing JoeGirl entries. Lately I have been focusing on practical, informative posts. And while everybody likes a good tip now and then, I feel like they are a cop-out for me. I would much rather write a sarcastic, silly or senseless tale about a daily situation or scenario. But frankly—as the saying goes—I don’t get out much, so new and inspiring circumstances rarely come along.
So, I am coming to you for advice. Should I keep pressuring myself to write every day, just for the sake of writing, or do I wait for the right story to come along, and share it when it does?
You tell me.
What have been your favourite JoeGirl posts, and why?
What topics do you feel I tackle best?
I need brutal honesty here, if I am to continue with JoeGirl.
What I need most are your comments! Just below every post in pink uppercase letters, there is a little “COMMENTS” link. If you click on that word, you will be presented with a box in which to leave me a note. If you choose to select the Anonymous option, please at least leave your initials. I do read every comment. In fact, I THRIVE on them! It’s the only real way I know anybody is reading. Sometimes, I even reward you for leaving comments, with gifts and prizes!
So c’mon, JoeGirl readers! Let me know you’re out there, and what you want to read!
As always, thank you for reading JoeGirl.
Monday 13 October 2008
Thankful
Today is Thanksgiving here in Canada. As I sat starting at my FaceBook profile this morning, trying to come up with something witty or profound with which to update my status, I could really only come up with this:
Mine is a sweet, sweet life.
Thank you for being part of it.
Happy Thanksgiving!
“I am thankful for every moment in my life so far, and for every moment yet to come.”For if even one of my life’s moments failed to happen, I would not be where I am right now—sitting in my pyjamas, surrounded by the heavy fragrance of homemade apple crisp baking in the oven, and all three boys playing downstairs.
Mine is a sweet, sweet life.
Thank you for being part of it.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thursday 9 October 2008
Plump and Perky!
In my 20 minutes of spare time today, I caught a TV segment showcasing a local bra shop, Brachic. They were discussing the virtues of having a proper bra fitting, which inspired me to re-post one of my first JoeGirl submissions.
Some of my first readers will remember this one, and so I ask you, “Have you had a proper bra fitting yet?” And for those more recent readers, maybe it’s time for you to visit your favourite lingerie shop and treat yourself to something more suitable—and flattering—to your body type!
“I wasn’t looking at her shoulders”
—originally posted July 2, 2008
So many people have been telling me I look great lately, and ask “Have you been working out/losing weight/having an affair?" Nope. But there is a difference. My bras.
You know how Oprah had that Great American Bra Fitting, or whatever she called it, maybe a year or so ago? About finding the perfect bra size and shape for you, and only you? Well it works! Go to a reputable lingerie shop (Zellers, Target and Walmart do not qualify), and have a proper bra fitting. I’m talking Marianne’s in Ottawa’s Westgate Mall. Victoria’s Secret, and even LaSenza, which is where my girls found their magic.
If you’ve watched Pixar’s The Incredibles, you need to visualize the superhero’s seamstress, Edna Mode. If my ‘fit specialist’ hadn't been three-dimensional, and manipulating my breasts and back fat to suit her mission, I might have actually thought Edna Mode had relocated her services to Bayshore Shopping Centre.
Now for years, I thought I was a 36C. When I say years, I mean since best-friend-since-Grade-Four Kate and I would spend our weekends scouring the mall for something new. I'm talking... the teen years. Forget pregnancy, and nursing two babies for well over a year apiece, and gaining and losing, and gaining and losing weight. I walked into that store determined I was still a 36C, damn it.
After trying on no fewer than 3,972 bras, I left with two delicious selections... sized 34DD.
As Clinton Kelly always says, you gotta get those girls up where they belong! So the tighter waistband (34!) keeps the horizontal strap where it should be — straight across your back, not riding up and causing boob slump in front. The larger cup size (DD!) pulls all the goodies in from your sides and underarms and works it all to your advantage — making your mid-section appear narrower and longer, and putting your beautiful breasts up front and in focus!
Some of my first readers will remember this one, and so I ask you, “Have you had a proper bra fitting yet?” And for those more recent readers, maybe it’s time for you to visit your favourite lingerie shop and treat yourself to something more suitable—and flattering—to your body type!
“I wasn’t looking at her shoulders”
—originally posted July 2, 2008
So many people have been telling me I look great lately, and ask “Have you been working out/losing weight/having an affair?" Nope. But there is a difference. My bras.
You know how Oprah had that Great American Bra Fitting, or whatever she called it, maybe a year or so ago? About finding the perfect bra size and shape for you, and only you? Well it works! Go to a reputable lingerie shop (Zellers, Target and Walmart do not qualify), and have a proper bra fitting. I’m talking Marianne’s in Ottawa’s Westgate Mall. Victoria’s Secret, and even LaSenza, which is where my girls found their magic.
If you’ve watched Pixar’s The Incredibles, you need to visualize the superhero’s seamstress, Edna Mode. If my ‘fit specialist’ hadn't been three-dimensional, and manipulating my breasts and back fat to suit her mission, I might have actually thought Edna Mode had relocated her services to Bayshore Shopping Centre.
Now for years, I thought I was a 36C. When I say years, I mean since best-friend-since-Grade-Four Kate and I would spend our weekends scouring the mall for something new. I'm talking... the teen years. Forget pregnancy, and nursing two babies for well over a year apiece, and gaining and losing, and gaining and losing weight. I walked into that store determined I was still a 36C, damn it.
After trying on no fewer than 3,972 bras, I left with two delicious selections... sized 34DD.
As Clinton Kelly always says, you gotta get those girls up where they belong! So the tighter waistband (34!) keeps the horizontal strap where it should be — straight across your back, not riding up and causing boob slump in front. The larger cup size (DD!) pulls all the goodies in from your sides and underarms and works it all to your advantage — making your mid-section appear narrower and longer, and putting your beautiful breasts up front and in focus!
CAUTION: Participating in the aforementioned exercise in self-help may result in your husband, and father of your children, calling you a MILF. I hope you accept the ‘compliment’ more graciously than I did.
Wednesday 8 October 2008
6 of my favourite paint colours!
Colour, colour everywhere!
Here are some of my top paint colour picks, as used in my own home.
All are from the Pratt & Lambert collection. Have fun!
Grape Hyacinth 31-24.
Powder room. Love it behind the crisp white fixtures.
Melon Green 18-28.
A fresh welcome for guests.
November 26-26.
Quinn’s grown-up blue.
November 26-26.
Another view. The grayness brings a maturity to this colour.
Safari 8-29.
Our basement family room. As yellow as I am willing to go.
A warm, soft backdrop to any wood colour.
Safari 8-29.
With the flash this time. Don’t judge me. That’s TEN years of corks!
Silver Birch 18-31.
The softest green. Started in my original guest room, which is now Jake’s room. Brought it into the boys’ bathroom. A surprising amount of green, compared to the chip which appears more grey. Love it!
Silver Birch 18-31.
As seen in Jake’s room. Before his arrival = before the clutter!
Shadow Beige 11-28.
In my dining room. Soon to be in my foyer and family room. Such a complex colour, as it takes on a modern warm gray with the clear light of daytime, yet warms up to an enticing mushroom beige in the evening, with candlelight or dimmed incandescent lighting.
If you can source the paint chips for these colours from your local Pratt & Lambert dealer, I suggest you do. These colours are so inviting, warm and classic—in any environment.
Here are some of my top paint colour picks, as used in my own home.
All are from the Pratt & Lambert collection. Have fun!
Grape Hyacinth 31-24.
Powder room. Love it behind the crisp white fixtures.
Melon Green 18-28.
A fresh welcome for guests.
November 26-26.
Quinn’s grown-up blue.
November 26-26.
Another view. The grayness brings a maturity to this colour.
Safari 8-29.
Our basement family room. As yellow as I am willing to go.
A warm, soft backdrop to any wood colour.
Safari 8-29.
With the flash this time. Don’t judge me. That’s TEN years of corks!
Silver Birch 18-31.
The softest green. Started in my original guest room, which is now Jake’s room. Brought it into the boys’ bathroom. A surprising amount of green, compared to the chip which appears more grey. Love it!
Silver Birch 18-31.
As seen in Jake’s room. Before his arrival = before the clutter!
Shadow Beige 11-28.
In my dining room. Soon to be in my foyer and family room. Such a complex colour, as it takes on a modern warm gray with the clear light of daytime, yet warms up to an enticing mushroom beige in the evening, with candlelight or dimmed incandescent lighting.
If you can source the paint chips for these colours from your local Pratt & Lambert dealer, I suggest you do. These colours are so inviting, warm and classic—in any environment.
Tuesday 7 October 2008
Torn between two loves
You all know I am passionate about colour. Well, sometimes that passion interferes with effective decision making.I have been struggling with paint colour for my kitchen walls for a long time now—in fact, since we moved in to this house over five years ago. It is still the hideous butter yellow it was when we bought the place, and I cursed the colour even then. I think it is Benjamin Moore’s Vellum. I’m not a big yellow fan, especially on walls. I have no idea how I have lasted this long. Is it any wonder my meals are less then inspired?
So I am finally ready to paint. I think. I am torn between two shades. A dirty, slate grey-blue (Behr’s “Rhino”, shown above), and my favourite neutral, Pratt & Lambert’s “Shadow Beige”.
So, hear me out:
Rhino:
—One of my favourite accent colours.
—A fresh surprise when you enter the kitchen, after coming from neutral foyer and dining room (painted, or will be painted Shadow Beige).
—Uncommon kitchen colour choice. And you know, I always go for the uncommon.
—Works well with existing counter top.
—I’ve bought all kinds of accessories to match.
—Too blue?
Shadow Beige:
—One of my favourite neutral colours.
—A consistent backdrop for seasonal, ever-changing accessories.
—No commitment to a set colour palette.
—Continuous flow of colour from room to room.
—Too boring?
At time of posting, I am completely 50:50 on this. Hoping my lovely and loyal JoeGirl readers can lend some advice. Here are some pics to help you, help me.
1: Sample of kitchen counter—a faux slate.
2: Long wall of kitchen cabinets. I tried P & L’s “Kodiak Grey” behind stove, but feel it is too dark. The back splash hopes to be slate cobblestone someday soon.
3: View of dining room from kitchen. Painted Shadow Beige.
As always, I crave your feedback.
THANK YOU!
Monday 6 October 2008
The Height of Art
One of the most common mistakes I see, and—oddly enough—one of the most common questions I receive, relates to the height at which artwork and wall decor is hung. There is a simple answer. A Rule of Thumb. Are you ready? Write this down. Tattoo it on your butt cheek. Well, maybe not your butt cheek, because you’d have a hard time reading it. Unless you stood in front of a mirror. But then it would appear backwards, so you’d have to ask the tattoo artist to print it backwards in the first place, and then it would be really confusing. Especially during intimate moments. There’d be a lot of questions.
Sorry. Right. Here it is:
The correct height at which to hang artwork and wall decor…
EYE LEVEL or 60"
Any artwork, mirrors, wall decor, photographs, collections, tapestries, etc. should be hung so their vertical centers are at 60" from the floor.
You’ll notice I mentioned collections. This refers to groupings of art or photographs, which are so popular now. You want to plan them so the entire collection’s center is at eye level, or again, 60" from the floor.
We want to look at artwork, not up to it.
Of course, this is a guideline and my recommendation only, and there are exceptions. In a dining room for example, where most of your time is spent sitting, you may want to lower that height a bit, to maybe 54". I have little prints hung particularly low, to balance a lamp on my guest room’s night stand, or by a bathroom sink.
What are your burning decorating questions?
Leave me a comment and I’ll be sure to reply!
Sorry. Right. Here it is:
The correct height at which to hang artwork and wall decor…
EYE LEVEL or 60"
Any artwork, mirrors, wall decor, photographs, collections, tapestries, etc. should be hung so their vertical centers are at 60" from the floor.
You’ll notice I mentioned collections. This refers to groupings of art or photographs, which are so popular now. You want to plan them so the entire collection’s center is at eye level, or again, 60" from the floor.
We want to look at artwork, not up to it.
Of course, this is a guideline and my recommendation only, and there are exceptions. In a dining room for example, where most of your time is spent sitting, you may want to lower that height a bit, to maybe 54". I have little prints hung particularly low, to balance a lamp on my guest room’s night stand, or by a bathroom sink.What are your burning decorating questions?
Leave me a comment and I’ll be sure to reply!
Saturday 4 October 2008
Palette: Peter Rabbit
For Quinn’s first Christmas, we wanted to buy him a keepsake. Something he might treasure for years to come, and hopefully share with his own children someday. We searched and searched for the perfect gift. Nothing silver or engraved. No special dishes or trinkets. A book would be perfect.And then I found it. The Complete Tales of Beatrix Potter. It’s a huge, linen bound, hardcover, with gold page edges. A hearty, yet elegant find which, even at the age of seven, Quinn finds difficult to handle on his own. Not often pulled from the bookshelf—due likely to its intimidating size—though once immersed, we all simply devour the stories of Peter, Squirrel Nutkin, and all the mice, moles, foxes, toads and other sweet creatures who are so lovingly portrayed, and brought to life, by the astounding Beatrix Potter.
Both Andrew and I grew up listening to, and reading, Beatrix Potter books. Do you remember them? They were tiny—just perfect for little hands. And her illustrations would coax you into the perfect, lush worlds—and lives—of the animals who lived there.
These colours remind me of FiestaWare dishes and Helen Dardik’s funky illustrations. Would be a lot of fun in a child’s room, or in a tropical decor.
“Peter Rabbit”: Pantone 5493, 377, 611, 7413
Pantone is a colour system used primarily by graphics professionals and offset printers. As always, if you’d like to know paint equivalents for these colours, simply post a comment with your request, and I will be oh-so-happy to oblige!
Thursday 2 October 2008
I just can’t let go…
As the boys and I opened the garage door this morning, we saw a rough-looking Golden Lab moping around our front lawn. At first glance, I thought it was Dakota, our neighbour’s dog. But on closer inspection, I discovered a leaner middle, a frothy mouth, a gooey right eye and a very lifeless left eye. This old-timer was in rough shape. No identification. No collar—just a choke chain.
I held on to his chain, keeping him at my side as the buses came and went. Several kids and Moms at the stop identified the dog as one who wanders away from home a lot, and were able to tell me where he lived. Jake and I walked the long way to daycare, so we could get this poor guy home.
We met his owner on the street, where she had obviously been looking for her lost pooch. She gratefully acknowledged the rescue, and explained “Shakes” is on his last legs—arthritis, a tumor in his left eye, infection in the right, and twelve years under his belt. A good long life for a Lab.
Andrew mocks me for wanting to rescue every dog. We are dog lovers, having both grown up with them. And we loved—and still love—our girl Jasmin for eight years before her sudden illness and passing in February 2007. She can still bring me to tears, I miss her so much.
Jasmin got away from the house a few times, too. It kills me to think of what might have happened if people hadn’t cared enough to hold onto her, and help her back home. She almost always had on her collar and ID tags, but this old boy didn’t.
Thankfully, Shakes’ return was an easy one, but many people might just have let him wander. Lost, and lonely, and confused. I just don’t have that in me. I can’t let go of a stray, for fear if I do, they might never find their way home. Home to the people who love him, and would miss him terribly.
Lesson: Please make sure your cherished pets are properly tagged.
…and give them a big, snuggly hug, from JoeGirl.
I held on to his chain, keeping him at my side as the buses came and went. Several kids and Moms at the stop identified the dog as one who wanders away from home a lot, and were able to tell me where he lived. Jake and I walked the long way to daycare, so we could get this poor guy home.
We met his owner on the street, where she had obviously been looking for her lost pooch. She gratefully acknowledged the rescue, and explained “Shakes” is on his last legs—arthritis, a tumor in his left eye, infection in the right, and twelve years under his belt. A good long life for a Lab.
Andrew mocks me for wanting to rescue every dog. We are dog lovers, having both grown up with them. And we loved—and still love—our girl Jasmin for eight years before her sudden illness and passing in February 2007. She can still bring me to tears, I miss her so much.Jasmin got away from the house a few times, too. It kills me to think of what might have happened if people hadn’t cared enough to hold onto her, and help her back home. She almost always had on her collar and ID tags, but this old boy didn’t.
Thankfully, Shakes’ return was an easy one, but many people might just have let him wander. Lost, and lonely, and confused. I just don’t have that in me. I can’t let go of a stray, for fear if I do, they might never find their way home. Home to the people who love him, and would miss him terribly.
Lesson: Please make sure your cherished pets are properly tagged.
…and give them a big, snuggly hug, from JoeGirl.
Wednesday 1 October 2008
Swatchbook: Keeping colours close at hand
Try this idea to always have your home’s colour palette handy:
- Find a cheap 4x6 pocket photo album.
- Create a template to note the qualities of each room. I created mine in Adobe Illustrator—because I am sooo an Adobe girl, and so NOT a Microsoft girl. But if you must, Excel would do a fine job of this task.
Here’s a PDF of my file for you to try [ Swatchbook.pdf | 30k ]. - Make note of things like: room size, sun exposure, ceiling height, paint finish (matte, eggshell, semi-gloss, etc.), date painted, even window dimensions.
- Pick up paint chips for each colour you have used throughout your home. Include accent colour chips as well, or colours you’d like to use in the future.
- Add bits of fabric or even photos—from the existing space, or your inspiration file.
- Carry your swatchbook with you everywhere you go—you’ll never miss out on that perfect accessory again!
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