Whether they’re real, faux, or DIY, cotton branches make an excellent centrepiece for fall and winter.
Friday Five
I have to say (again) that of all the celebrations, Halloween is not my favourite. I’ve appreciated some of the simpler decorations that have come up in recent years much more than the traditional black and orange decorations, but I still don’t decorate beyond (maybe) a pumpkin. But that’s just me. Maybe you do! If you do, then this post is for you. Here are five ways to decorate for a white and black Halloween.
1. Include bats everywhere.
2. Add white pumpkins.
 
3. Add skulls.
4. Paint branches black.
5. Bake something spooky.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Leopard! It’s one of my favourite patterns. I love to wear it, and I like its muted shades in home decor.
Chelsea boot, Cole Haan
Pacific Palisades, Studio McGee
Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian readers!
Many of us in the design community are used to seeing large round mirrors in hallways, foyers, bedrooms, and bathrooms, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a place for the classic rectangle. There is! Check out these beautiful spaces with rectangular mirrors.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
These stone sinks are impressive vessels, aren’t they? While I can’t quite see one in a suburban home, I can definitely imagine a beautiful stone sink in a gorgeous Italian villa! Can’t you?
via My Paradissi
via Carla Aston
Coqui Coqui Residence and Spa, via Remodelista
via My Domaine
via One Kin Design
Have a great weekend!
Here are a five things that have been on my mind this week.
1. I learned that apparently Justin Bieber bought a $5M house in Puslinch, Ontario (a short ride from Waterloo). In fact, I features the home two years on my blog because, yes, it’s super white!
2. I gave a talk about blogging at Sheridan College in Oakville earlier this week (#WhiteCabanaGoestoSheridan). I met with students who are studying industrial design, ceramics, furniture design, glass, and textiles. Gosh, they’re creative! Every time I go to Sheridan, I feel like enrolling in a class. I’m inspired to see what’s offered a little closer to home.
3. After devouring hours and hours of The Great British Bake Off while I was in Florida, I took the plunge and made this cake last night for a dinner party tonight. I’ll let you know if it is in fact delicious. And if there are 20 layers.
4. I enjoyed reading this Fundamentals of Team article (via Swiss Miss).
5. I just started an audio book that is making me laugh out loud. It’s called Primates of Park Avenue by Wednesday Martin. If you need something interesting and entertaining about life in New York City (so far, it completely mimics my sister’s life as a mother when she lived there), you might want to check it out.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
How do you make your coffee? Are you loyal to one method? My coffee of choice these days is a classic latte made with my Bialetti – a stovetop espresso machine – you know, the one that just about every Italian person owns? I have multiple sizes of Bialetti machines, and I pull the appropriate one out depending on how many cups of coffee I need to make for me and my guests. I also put my Alessi espresso machine to use every once in a while, too, because it’s so beautiful.
I go in stages with my coffee, however. For a long while, I was purely a drip coffee drinker. My Cuisinart coffee maker is still serving me quite well.
In addition to my two go-to coffee options, I’m sharing a total of five ways to make coffee today. Feel free to let me know how you make your coffee in the comments below! I’d love to chat coffee with you!
1. Stovetop Espresso
Bialetti espresso maker, $43.99 CAD, Hudson’s Bay
2. Drip
Cuisinart coffee maker, $69.99 USD, Bed Bath & Beyond
3. French Press
Bodum Caffettiera, $15 CAD, Chapters Indigo
4. Pour Over
brass pour over coffee maker, $27.99 USD (on sale), World Market
5. Siphon
Grosche Heisenberg Siphon coffee maker, $71.99 CAD (on sale), Hudson’s Bay
I’m ending the week with five things that have been on my mind lately.
1. Netflix
Over the course of two days, I watched the first season of Broadchurch. Oh, was it ever good. Have you watched it? Watch it!
2. Random Blogger Meet-Up
When I was in Paris, Ontario last Saturday, I ran into Amber and Derek (from Canadian Fashionista). We bonded over blogging, our love for colours (her – pink, me – white), and our failed attempt to check out the Paris Night Market. I love random meet-ups with bloggers who you sometimes only ever meet online!
3. BBQ Chicken
When I had Tim and Chris over for a BBQ a couple of weeks ago, I made this grilled chicken. It turned out well. I’d easily make it again!
4. Salted Butter Chocolate Chunk Shortbread Cookies
After reading this Smitten Kitchen post, I had to give Alison Roman‘s salted butter chocolate chunk shortbread cookies a try. The Cookie has gone viral on social media (as cookies sometimes do?). Bon Appétit’s article about The Cookie started with a declaration that “EVERYONE” is making them! I have to say that the recipe was extremely easy, and the cookie turned out well (see this Instagram photo). Not only that, but the cookie really is delicious! They’re a nice change to a more classic, sugary, chewy chocolate chip cookie.
5. Bayfield, Ontario
I met friends at their cottage in Bayfield, Ontario last week. It was glorious. I enjoy that little town and Lake Huron so much. My “must buy myself a cute cottage one day” remains on my mind!
Books. Magazines. I love them stacked. I enjoy seeing my books and magazines (neatly) over-flowing all around my home. I tend to keep my stacks in my kitchen and office, but I also often have stacks of books and magazines in my bedroom. They make me happy. And it seems like these stacks make others happy, too.
via Domino
designed by Alexander White, via Home Adore
via Love Eva
Have a great weekend! Happy reading!
Note to self: Find a wall to hang/lean a piece of oversized art. I do love a good gallery wall (see my office in Style at Home), but a wall featuring a massive photograph creates a “wow” moment, too.
Sun N Salt, Etsy
designer – Ashley Botten, via House & Home
Here are just a few things that have been on my mind this week.
1. Pearl Morissette
I just learned of Pearl Morissette winery and restaurant in Jordan, Ontario, and it’s now on my must-visit list.
2. DIY Wedding Details
The DIY details of Homey Oh My‘s recent wedding definitely impressed me. Amy and Oleg set such a pretty scene for a special occasion.
3. Bramasole
Did you read Under the Tuscan Sun? See the movie? If so, you’re certainly familiar with Bramasole (aka Villa Laura). And now…you can stay there!
4. Pool View
Oh, this exterior pool scene is beautiful.
Tiger tail residence, Edward Ogosta Architecture
5. Elizabeth
I watched Elizabeth this week. I liked it a lot. The costumes are incredible. I know this movie is from 1998, but I hadn’t ever seen it. How had I never seen it?
Have a great weekend, everyone! Happy Canada Day!
A few things on my mind.
1. #MBALife
As of yesterday at about 5pm, I became an MBA grad. Wild. The last four years have been a lot of work, but I learned so much, and I met so many great people, so the lack of free weekends, the never ending hours of group work, and the stress of exams were worth it.
2. Ann Arbor, Michigan
I was in Ann Arbor at the beginning of this week for a conference. You can see a few photos at #WhiteCabanaGoesToAnnArbor, but I have a full post in the works, so stay tuned for that.
3. Books
Audio books. Amazing. I have been doing quite a bit of driving lately, and I’m now keen on audio books. I finished Elena Ferrante’s Book 2 over the weekend, and I’m eager to start on Book 3. Bonus: I have been getting my audio books for free from the Waterloo Public Library.
4. Father’s Day
It’s Father’s Day this weekend. Did you see Daniela’s Father’s Day gift guide? She’s a brilliant gift giver, and I’m grateful that she took the time to share some gift ideas.
5. TV
Sherlock. I know I’m late to the game, but I watched Series 1 this week. Oh, yes, it’s good.
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.
Here’s what’s been on my mind lately.
1. Podcasts
I finally (finally!) started listening to podcasts. I’m currently alternating between How I Built This and Serial. Any recommendations for others?
2. #PhDLife
An article I co-wrote with one of my undergraduate students was published last week. This is very exciting for my academic life.
3. Saskatoon
Although my time in Saskatoon was conference-focused, I did have a chance to visit the Remai Modern museum post-conference, and really enjoyed both the art and architecture. In addition to this museum, I would definitely recommend staying at the Delta Bessborough and eating at Ayden (best burger I’ve had in a long time). I also appreciated the fresh, clean air in Saskatoon and the walks I took along the river from the Delta Bessborough to the University of Saskatchewan. (See #WhiteCabanaGoestoSaskatoon for a few photos.)
4. Video
This video – Ama – by Julie Gaultier is stunning. I have watched it more than once.
5. Ann Arbor
I’m heading to Ann Arbor, Michigan soon. Any recommendations? As per usual, I’ve checked out the Design*Sponge city guide!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
If you’ve been following along regularly, then you know that over a 6-week period, I shared the progress of my laundry/bathroom combo room makeover as part the the One Room Challenge event this spring. Last week, I shared five room reveals from the featured designers of the One Room Challenge. Today, I bring you five more gorgeous spaces, but this time, from the guest participants of the event..
Here’s a sneak peek at 5 rooms from the guest participants…
And one more for good luck:
And just a few more:
Decor Happy’s teen girl’s bathroom
The Posh Home’s modern living room
A House in the Wood’s shared girls’ bedroom
Wonderfully Made’s laundry room
Cait Waite’s bedroom
Deeply Southern Home’s library
Home Glow Design’s she-shed
Hartley Home’s laundry room
Jessica Devlin’s living room
My Pinecone Home’s guest bedroom
Have a great long weekend, everyone! See you back here on Tuesday!
p.s. In Royal Wedding news – this cake recipe!
I’m ending the week on a sweet note with these white honey pots.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Here are five things that have been on my mind this week.
1. Toronto
Of course Toronto has been on my mind. There’s no reason why we should ever associate people with “mowed down.” A tragedy. An awful tragedy that is too close to home. To learn more and to stay informed, I’ve been leaning toward reading articles from The Conversation, which is an academic source but written for a general audience. Articles like “Why he didn’t shoot?” and “The dark possible motive” are just two of the several that I read.
2. Babies
Congratulations to Daniela who gave birth to her second baby. Yay! A sweet girl has been welcomed into our family.
3. Music
This week I attended a house concert by Keenan Reimer-Watts who is a Kitchener-Waterloo musician. He created original music for the harpsichord and guitar, and it was quite the evening. I especially enjoyed how he explained his composition process. I was amazed by his talent. Also – this was the first time I had ever seen or heard the harpsichord. (FYI: It’s not a harp.)
Keenan also taught us about his organization Busking for Change. In this movement, buskers and audiences come together to support the environment.
4. Reading
The new edition of Toque has been released. This is a free magazine (yes, print) that features articles about local places and people. I enjoy reading it because I always learn something new about Waterloo region (and Guelph and Hamilton, too)!
5. Post-MBA Life
Well, it’s true. I’ve moved into post-MBA life, and it’s been pretty fabulous so far. I’ve seen lots of friends, read some books and magazines, and started to plan and book mini-vacations. I feel fortunate that I had the opportunity to complete another degree, and I enjoyed learning a ton over the last 4 years. But I’m now looking forward to having a bit of free time.
I’ve been keen on terrazzo lately. Terrazzo is a type of polished concrete flooring that has bits of marble or granite set into it. Â While I have no use for terrazzo in my house, and the installation process does seem intensive (I’ve watched plenty of YouTube videos to prove this), I keep wondering about how I could possibly use it in the future. Maybe for my third bathroom redo? Hmm…
Here are five gorgeous spaces that use black and white terrazzo.
via Buk & Nola 
via Buk & Nola
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Here’s what been on my mind lately.
1. Emma González
Emma González amazes me. The March for Our Lives movement amazes me. I know the march has passed, and change hasn’t happened overnight. But change will happen. It has to.
2. Colorscape
I liked this short Colorscope video by Jocie Juritz about the colour white. (via SwissMiss)
3. Script to Screen Instagram
The Instagram account Script to Screen is entertaining (via Cup of Jo).
4. Book progress
The final deadline for our book is in a couple of weeks. This makes me so happy. Stay tuned for launch date this fall. Guess what everyone is getting for Christmas? Hint. Hint.
5. Pray for Humboldt
Tragic news about the bus crash in Saskatchewan last Friday. Absolutely devastating for the young kids, families, and community. If you didn’t hear the news, a bus carrying the Humboldt Broncos young hockey team crashed with a transport truck. The crash claimed the lives of 14 people and 15 were injured. Read the Prime Minister’s statement about this tragedy if you’d like.
What do you think about leaning art and books? I have things leaning in a few spots in my house, and I really enjoy layering art. I love being surrounded by cool art pieces, and by layering them, I can switch things around when I need a change.
Here are five inspiring spaces that are accented by leaning art walls.
via Carla Aston
via Carla Aston
via Habitually Chic
Have a great weekend, everyone!
I’m bringing some music to the blog today so there’s no excuse to get moving this weekend (after big Easter meals, perhaps)!
Let it Whip by Dazz Band
Paradise by George EzraÂ
Havana by Camilla Cabello feat. Young Thug
Filthy by Justin Timberlake
Apparently, I have no shortage of things on my mind lately. Here are five of them.
1. Burnt
I hadn’t watched TV in several weeks, but last week, I had two hours to spare, so I sat and watched Burnt (without falling asleep!). Bradley Cooper speaking French, gorgeous food, and good scenery make for an enjoyable movie as far as I’m concerned. It was worth watching.
2. Ravenclaw
I recently learned that many of my students know what house they belong to…as in Harry Potter house. I had no idea this was a thing, but they taught me about the online quizzes you can take to determine your house. I’m a Ravenclaw, which isn’t that surprising since Ravenclaws are curious and creative people. If you’ve done other personality tests (um…do you know your colour? I’m heavy on the green with a side of yellow), then you might see similarities between these and the Harry Potter house quizzes. I think I have a bit of each of the houses, but to varying degrees. I think I’m certainly Ravenclaw with a side of Slitherin. Am I making any sense to anyone?
3. Mycorrhiza
I attended a biology lecture last week about mycorrhizae fungi which live in a symbiotic relationship with plants. It was absolutely fascinating. These microscopic mycorrhizae can access nutrients far beyond where plant roots can access them; in return, plants provide the mycorrhizae with carbon to live. I learned how mycorrhizae can help to increase the speed of growth in seedlings after major disasters such as a forest fire. That’s the (really) short version of what I learned.
4. Post-MBA Life
I figured out what I’m going to learn about post-MBA. Plants! Yahoo! I’m not intending to do a biology degree or anything crazy like that, but I think I’ll try to audit a course or at least attend biology lectures at the university when I can. See point #3. It inspired this decision.
5. Popcorn
Do you like popcorn? Do you buy it or make it? I’ve had a discussion about popcorn with all of my immediate family members over the last month (I know, I know – mycorrhiza to popcorn – call me crazy). I’ve tried sea salt flavours of Skinny Pop and Boom Chicka Pop, and I’ve enjoyed both. But I like freshly popped popcorn, too. I can’t yet decide which option I like better. And is freshly popped “healthier” than pre-bagged?
February was a wild month on my end. There were very happy days, of course, but there were also really sad days, too. Every week seemed to bring difficult news of one sort or another. Illness. Job stress. Relationship challenges. I hope March brings joy to my loved ones. I hope happiness finds its way into your homes, too, if you’ve been experiencing some trying times.
So, today, I’m taking a break from talking about renos and fashion and furniture to raise awareness about some important causes.
Mental Illness
A friend’s brother passed away last week due to mental illness. It’s devastating and awful. He was much too young. To donate or learn more about this disease, visit the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Prostate Cancer
Some people say that prostate cancer is a “normal” or “good” kind of cancer. How is cancer normal? How can it be good? To donate or learn more, visit Prostate Cancer Canada and the Movember Foundation.
Breast Cancer
My friend Lisa wrote a personal essay about how cancer changes the conversations you have with your partner. It was recently published in the Globe and Mail. There are several organizations you can donate to to improve awareness and research for breast cancer. I usually learn more or donate to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Metastatic Breast Cancer Fund, or The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.
Ronald McDonald House
I heard of the much too early birth of twins of friends of a friend. I also learned of how the Ronald McDonald House Charities is supporting this family who needs to be close to their babies while they’re in intensive care.
Diabetes
Did you know that 11 million Canadians are living with diabetes or pre-diabetes? And about 50% of people with diabetes may experience kidney damage. To donate or learn more, visit Diabetes Canada or The Kidney Foundation of Canada.
My mind has been busy this week. Here’s what has been on it…
1. TD Canada Trust Wait Time
As soon as I noticed my credit card was compromised last weekend, I called TD Visa. There was no real rush, however, since I was on hold (hold!) for 45 minutes. Is this normal? I was expecting to be on hold for maximum 10 minutes. Not fun. It took about 5 minutes to resolve my issue.
2. Credit Card Theft
I’m 99% certain that my credit card info was stolen via an Uber transaction. Not cool. I can’t prove it though, but maybe TD can. What a pain. Saving credit card info online is super convenient at the time of purchase, but incredibly inconvenient when a theft happens. Time to start with a fresh card. And time to stop saving info in my account.
3. Doors
To be honest, I have found door purchasing intimidating. Tiles, fabric, furniture, I can do. But doors? I found it hard. Luckily, Metrie and Northfield Trim and Door (here in Waterloo) have been guiding me through this door makeover project. I’ll let you know how installation goes.
4. Heidi Klum on Ellen
I watched this clip so many times. It made me laugh so much!
5. Essie Nail Polish
Did you know that Essie has launched a new series of nail polish? I learned about this via Carly, and since the “True Love Color” polish was on sale, I picked up “Pinked to Perfection”. It’s an all-in-one nail strengthener and polish, so it’s just what I need. I’m weekend ready!
Here’s what’s been on my mind lately.
1. The other week, I made my way through this Warren Buffett documentary. I enjoyed it. I especially like what Buffett had to say about ethics, public speaking, and reputation. Just look at all the subsidiary companies of Berkshire Hathaway (his company).
2. Over the long weekend, I watched The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (via Amazon Prime), and I loved it! The clothes, the characters, the decor, and the story…yes, I enjoyed all of it!
3. I have 6 more weeks of my last MBA course. I can’t believe it. It’s been an almost 4-year long degree (part-time). I’m pretty excited to get some free time back into my life. I’ve really enjoyed the courses I’ve taken these last two years (e.g., negotiation, mergers & acquisitions), and the struggles I had in the core courses in my first two years are a distant memory. If you’re considering an MBA, I’d recommend you go for it. Then again, I’m a fan of further education regardless of the degree, so my advice is always the same.
4. I popped into the mall the other week looking for a pair of basic black workout tights. Instead, I came home with these colourful tights from Aerie. I don’t wear much colour to work, but I do embrace it for workouts.
5. I made this salmon and spinach pasta last week (with my fresh pasta, of course!), and it was delicious (and quick and easy, too). I usually go for classic pasta with tomato sauce, so I really switched things up this time!
What’s been on your mind?
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Cashmere is the ultimate in winter wear as far as I’m concerned. I can feel put together and warm when I’m wearing a cashmere sweater. Cashmere is super soft, and it doesn’t itch, so it’s a great option for sweaters, cardigans, and turtlenecks, too.
I’m ending the week with five lovely cashmere sweaters at a range of price points.
cashmere sweater, $124 USD
turtleneck sweater, $240+ USD
sweater, $492 USD
cardigan, $683 USD
cardigan, $1371 USD
Have a great weekend, everyone! Stay warm!
Have you heard of the brand Scotch & Soda? I know that there’s at least one location in Toronto’s Eaton Centre, but beyond that, I don’t know where other stores are located. The few times I’ve been in, I’ve liked a lot of the merchandise, but it’s not a regular go-to shop for me. The other day, though, I was having a little online browse, and I came back to Scotch & Soda’s site. There are plenty of cute items currently in stock, but here are five white pieces that caught my attention.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Here’s what’s been on my mind lately.
1. Perimeter Institute concert series. Last week, I attend Finnish pianist Juho Pohjonen‘s concert at the Perimeter Institute. What an enjoyable evening out! The Perimeter Institute – PI – is one of my favourite buildings in Waterloo. It’s an impressive building that is on the edge of Waterloo Park, and I certainly enjoy the (mostly) white interior.
2. Anne. I (rather quickly) binge-watched Anne a couple of weeks ago. Surprisingly, I’m eager for more episodes. Does anyone know what’s going on with this series? It brought me back to my childhood, and I’d happily watch a few more episodes.
3. Winter boots. I’m already so tired of wearing winter boots. I enjoyed Carly the Prepster’s winter boot post, and I smiled when I read it because I have just about the exact collection (and then some). Multiple boots are a must for our winter weather, especially when you have outdoor activities to do each week.
4. Design fails. This Instagram account had me laughing out loud. Look at the photos, and read the comments, too. Hilarious! I think I should submit a photo of my wallpapered furnace. I’m sure it would make the “please hate these things” cut. (source: Jacquelyn Clark)
5. Door knobs. I’m thrilled to be working with Direct Door Hardware again this year. I worked with this company when I first moved into my house because I replaced all of my exterior door locks and knobs. The selection was awesome, and I really enjoyed the interactions I had with the company staff, so I was happy to work with them again on my door makeover project. My knobs arrived last week, and they’re so nice. Do you want to see them? Great! I’ll be sharing more news of this project in the months ahead.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
To end the week, I’m sharing five items that combine two of my favourite things: polka dots and pyjamas! Let’s get to it.
polka dot pj set, $110 CAD, Splendid
polka dot night shirt, $59.80 USD, Taylor Linens
polka dot pj set, $82 US, PJ Salvage
metallic polka dot pj set, Eberjey
polka dot pj set, $10 US, SheIn
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Oh, you know, I’m just dreaming about a future Chanel purchase…as you do on a Friday, right?
How could I not want to add a little Chanel to my wish list after look at these (and many other) photos.
via Badest.Outfits
via Vogue
via Damsel in Dior
via Pinterest
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone.
When I was with my nephews and niece in December, the topic of personal mottos came up. As it does, right? Well, the kids’ mottos were things like…play all day…live for mac ‘n cheese…they have to start somewhere, right? I find that when the new year comes around, people often talk about their mantra, motto, or words that are going to guide them for the year. My personal mantra seems to change every couple of months depending on what’s going on in my life – “treat yo’self,” “you only live once,” and “work hard and be nice to people” have certainly been in my motto mix. I also often wear two MantraBand bracelets that have great reminders on them – “nevertheless, she persisted,” and “she believed she could, so she did.” Even though it might sound silly, looking at these bracelets – and reminding myself of my motto(s) – have helped me get through some tougher days and reminded me to stay focused on what I value and how I spend my time.
If you need a little direction for 2018, here are five items with some helpful reminders to work hard, be strong, and make the most out of life!
MantraBand, Tattly Conquer temporary tattoo, mug, poster, Make it Happen pencil pouch
These things have been on my mind recently.
1. Travel. Do you travel a lot? When? Why? For pleasure? For work? I have loved to travel since I was little (my parents put the bug in me since they were quite the adventurers when we were a young family). I really enjoyed my solo trip to Nashville in December, and I’m looking forward to another short getaway to Grey County (Collingwood area) here in Ontario soon.
2. The holidays. I had a great time celebrating the holidays with family and friends throughout the month of December. And while I had a wonderful time and felt (and feel) very grateful, I was also thinking about loved ones who couldn’t join in on the fun or those who are no longer with us. The holidays are great, but they can also be tough for a lot of people for so many reasons. It’s easy to get wrapped up in gorgeous Christmas decor and beautiful Pinterest DIYs, but at the same time, all of these happy images don’t share the whole story.
3. Outlander. One of a friend’s recent Netflix suggestions included Outlander, so I gave it a try over the holidays. And then I got hooked. I’m just about finished season one. Have you seen it? What do you think?
4. 2018 Home Reno Plans. I had a fight with one of my bifold doors on the weekend. It got so bad that I had to leave the house (dramatic, I know). When I got back and had another fight with it, I ended up breaking the handle and the track gadgets. Oh my goodness. Annoying. I have hated my bifold doors since I moved in almost 5 years ago, so I am making #byebyebifold a priority. I’ll be checking out some places in Kitchener-Waterloo, but if you have any recommendations, let me know. If all works out, I’ll replace 15 interior doors in the months ahead.
In addition, I will be starting renos on my bathroom-laundry room. I have been wanting to rip this room apart for as long as I’ve been in my house, too, but other tasks have been higher on the to do list. I’ll share my design ideas soon.
5. Italian New Year’s Traditions. New Year’s Day always means a massive feast at my parents’ house with our extended family. Beginning the year with family and food and sharing well wishes for the year ahead has been a wonderful tradition (even though everyone is tired from the previous evening’s late-night celebrations). This year, I opted to add in another Italian tradition – a dinner called Cotechino con Lenticchie (translation: large pork sausage with lentils. I used a combination of this recipe and this recipe. The Italian custom is that the coin-shaped lentils bring prosperity and the cotechino brings abundance for the year ahead.
And another New Year’s Eve/Day tradition is to wear red undergarments to bring in good luck for the year. My Nonno was always talking about this tradition at our New Year’s Day gatherings when he was alive.
Have a great weekend, everyone. Stay warm!
Here are five festive things to add to your to do list this month.
1. Set a pretty table for you and your guests.
2. Make a gingerbread house with little ones in your life.
3. Wrap presents in a signature style.
4. Enjoy an evening by the warm fire.
5. Bake up something delicious to share with family and friends.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Did you follow the One Room Challenge this season? I barely had a chance to follow any of the designer or guest participants’ makeovers, but from what I did see, people really worked hard to transform rooms from drab to fab in just a few weeks.
I did follow The Makerista’s 7-week room transformation of a girl’s bedroom, and it was just one beautiful piece of art/furniture/detail after another. I love the spray-painted beds she used as well as the sweet chest of drawers.
And it’s that chest of drawers with its swag drawer pulls that has inspired this post.
Stanley Furniture drawer chest, $613 USD, Hayneedle
Stanley Furniture chest, $765 USD, Hayneedle
chest of drawers, $4300 USD, Cupboards & Roses
Trumeau mirrors, $5204 CAD, 1st Dibs
Louis XVI bed, $5205 CAD, 1st Dibs
When the weather turns chilly, I find it really easy to wear black. Every. Darn. Day. But looking at “winter white fashion” on Pinterest is so inspiring. I think I need to make an effort to add creamy whites to my wardrobe this winter.
These outfits are beautiful, aren’t they? Is this a look you have embraced – or will try to?
Have a great weekend, everyone!
I feel as though I have been fighting a sickness all week. Maybe when I finally slow down this weekend, it’ll finally take over. Hopefully not!
If you’re like me, when you’re feeling sick, all you want are…
cozy blankets – Doris Leslie Blau
lots of tea – Bea’s Cookbook
an oversize sweater – Damsel in Dior
my bed – as seen in Style at Home
flowers – Erica Cook
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Oh, Hermes. Who loves this luxurious brand? Yup, me too. My Evelyne purse and my La Vie Precieuse scarf are two of the items I covet most in my wardrobe. I wear both regularly, and they give me many happy memories. Do you have any luxury items that bring you so much joy?
Here are five beautiful Hermes pieces from 1stDibs.
Have a happy weekend, everyone!
I know I have said this before, but my life is truly hectic sometimes. It has been one heck of a fall term at work, and while everything is going very well, and I’m happy, I barely have a chance to sit, think, plan, question, etc. Well, today, I’m just doing that. I’m sharing five life things that are currently on my mind. Just because I feel like it. And only a bit of it has to do with white, in fact.
MBA Life
Oh my goodness. The end is near. I can feel it. I’m half-way through this term, and then I have next term, and I’ll be done my MBA. Cannot wait. I’ve been completing this degree on a part-time basis for about 3.5 years. In the spring/summer, I loved the two classes that I took (Negotiations & Project Management). I was dreading this term because I opted into Mergers and Acquisitions. Why, you ask? Well, the course offerings were slim this term, so it was either that or taxation. Seemed like the better option for me. It turns out that although the course is a challenge, I’m learning a lot and enjoying it. Who knew?
Post-MBA Plans
I feel like once I’m done my MBA, I’m going to have so much extra time on my hands. Weekends will no longer include team meetings, evenings will no longer mean rushing to class, and reading will include novels, not textbooks. Pretty exciting! But it also makes me nervous. What am I going to do with the extra time? I’m thinking about volunteer options in my community. Do you volunteer? Where? When? Why?
#WillTravelForWhite
I started another Instagram account. Right…as if I had nothing else to do. Well, when I saw that Autumn had a #WillTravelForYellow and Sabrina had started #WillTravelForPink, I knew I had to snap up #WillTravelForWhite. It’s been so fun to create an all-white Instagram page. I know it’s probably what White Cabana should be on Instagram, too, if I’m keeping “on brand,” but I really don’t like duplicating content, so I’d rather keep White Cabana Instagram as a place to share things from my life both in white and beyond. Check out #WillTravelforWhite and let me know if you like it.
Reno on the Brain
I’m (just about) ready to tackle another project in my house, and if all goes as planned in my brain, it’ll be my basement laundry room/bathroom combo room. Oh, it’s a gem of a before, let me tell you! I will be sure to share the before, not to worry! I don’t think I’m ready to tackle any plumbing on my own, but I have already been scoping out tiles as I haven’t used my wet saw in a couple of years now! It’s time.
Elena Ferrante Books
Several of my friends and colleagues have recommended Elena Ferrante‘s books, and I finally ordered the first two in the Neopolitan Novels collection. I’m only about 50 pages into Book One, but I’m enjoying it. Have you read any of these books from “one of Italy’s greatest storytellers”? (I’m reading them in English, by the way. Maybe when I’m done my MBA, I’ll read the series in Italian to brush up!)
Phew. It feels good to get these ideas out of my brain and onto the screen. Thanks for reading and have a great weekend!
I know many people might associate vaulted ceilings with breezy, summer homes, but I think they’re beautiful in any environment. The spaces I’m featuring here show how a white, vaulted ceiling brightens and enlarges a room. I just love this design option for both traditional and modern homes.
via Shelterness
Jam Kolektyw via Home Stratosphere 
JS Home Design via Summer Adams
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Fall is here…and pumpkins are absolutely everywhere!
I am amused by all the white pumpkin photos I’ve been seeing on my Instagram and Pinterest feeds. It’s incredible! A few years ago, white pumpkins were rare! And now? They’re everywhere!
Fall decor isn’t my favourite, but I do like a good white pumpkin or two for my home!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
I absolutely love pyjama sets. I’ve been wearing them for years. I’m always on the lookout for affordable versions, and when I see them, I scoop them up. Even if I already have enough in my drawers. Can you relate?
Some of the jammies I spy online and in stores are just so beautiful – yet they’re mostly over my budget! Have a look at these five sets. Would you put any on your must-have list?
pyjama top, $125 USD; bottoms, $68 USD, Tuckernuck
pajama set, $149 CAD, KIP Sleepwear
pajama set, $130 USD, The White Company
camisole, $105 USD; shorts, $95 USD, Monika Hibbs x The Sleep Shirt
pajama set, $60.71 (on sale), Brooks Brothers
Have a great weekend, everyone!
p.s. I’m heading to BlogPodium tomorrow, and the CIBC Run for the Cure (#WhiteCabanaWearsPink) is on Sunday! It’s going to be a jam-packed weekend! If you’d like to follow along, please do on Instagram.
Fall is the perfect season to embrace your puffy vest. It’s certainly a great option for cool mornings, and easy enough to shed once the warm afternoon weather arrives. I have a bright yellow one – that I originally bought for cold-weather running – but I’d really like to invest in a cream one this year. I love how it looks paired with blue or black jeans – aka my weekend wardrobe!
This illustration by Mark Challen easily convinces us that “the thin puffer vest is fall’s most versatile piece” (for men and women, I’d say)!
illustration by Mark Challen (@MarkChallenLive)
I’ve had a browse around the web, and here are five white vests that I think would suit us well this season.
quilted down vest, $158 CAD, J.Crew
quilted puffer vest, $66.50 USD, J.Crew Factory
fleece lined vest, $59 USD, L.L.Bean
quilted vest, $35.50 CAD, Old Navy
quilted barn vest, $119 USD, Talbots
Any other recommendations?
Have a great weekend, everyone!
I’m really trying to hold on to summer, but with lower-than-10-degree weather, back to school week, and colour changing leaves (it’s happening!), it’s really hard. I’m sad to see summer go because it’s my favourite season. Not only that, but I know that once the cool weather arrives, it’s here to stay. For a while. A long while. And even though I try every year to like something about winter, I’m definitely opposed to it. But I digress.
The real point of this post is to feature some lovely squirrels. It seems as though I have some strong memories of this little, wild animal.
When my French exchange student came to live with me and my family when I was sixteen, one of the first things she commented on were the squirrels. She couldn’t believe how many were jumping and climbing around in my parents’ backyard. At the time, I didn’t even know the French word for squirrel (un écureuil). It was fun to watch her excitement about an animal I barely paid attention to.
Of my mom’s Swarovski collection, the squirrel has always been one my favourite figurines (see below). Its curvy tail got me!
And the other day, on my walk home from work, I saw the tiniest baby squirrel. I had never seen one so small before. I was too slow with my camera, so I wasn’t able to snap a photo, but, trust me, it was teeny! And it was moving pretty quickly!
squirrel dish, Urban Barn
squirrel match strike, Jonathan Adler
squirrel figurine, Swarovski
squirrel dish, 1st Dibs
squirrel dish, 1st Dibs
Are squirrels abundant where you live? Do they annoy you? Are you fond of them?
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Round mirrors haven’t ever gone away in the design world, but I haven’t written about them in a long while, so I thought I’d revisit this stylish accessory today.
via The Stables
via Vanessa Francis
via Kristina Lynne
via Homey Oh My
via Rambling Reno
Here are five round mirrors to consider if you’re in the market for one.
mirror, Wayfair, $149.99 CAD
mirror, Ikea, $99 CAD
mirror, CB2, $299 CAD
mirror, Umbra, $130 CAD
mirror, West Elm, $392.55 CAD
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Interiors with massive windows always grab my attention. I love the natural light, the views, and the architecture. Here are five gorgeous spaces that show you exactly what I’m talking about.
via Cybball
via Rural Design
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Do I or don’t I invest in a pair of white Birkenstock sandals? Part of me is voting yes because they really are comfortable. But the other part of me is holding back because they’re not so stylish. What to do? What to do!?
Do you have a pair? Do you like any of these five white versions?
white Birkenstock, $145USD
white Birkenstock double strap, $71USD
Birkenstock Zurich sandal, $150.82USD
Birkenstock Arizona sandals, $87.50CAD
Birkenstock Madrid single strap sandals, $82.55USD
Thoughts?
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Oh, you know, I have the beach on my brain big tiiiime because I’m heading to my summer home-away-from-home soon! I’m pretty excited for some major relaxation time on the beach under the hot Floridian sun! So, in anticipation of long, lazy days and nights at the beach, I’m bringing some beachy to the blog today in the form of art!
white beach club, Italy, Gray Malin
white beach umbrellas, Italy, Gray Malin
white hot, Erin Beutel, Minted
iconic lifeguard tower, Kate Houlihan, Minted
collection, Sadie Holden, Minted
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Just two weeks ago, I shared an update about my spring home maintenance task list. I’m happy to report that I’m now able to cross two items off the list. Two! Yay! That’s major! I’ll be honest, it was fairly easy to do because I took advantage of Father’s Day sales! Yup. That’s right. This single lady loves everything that is currently marketed to dads…BBQs, tools, machines. Oh my goodness. It’s true! It’s totally true! I think I love power tools just as much as I love peonies…it’s all about balance, right?
So…here’s my updated home maintenance task list:
Garage door openerBBQ- Bathroom fans
- Closet organizer
- A hallway light
This list makes me very happy! I picked up this Chamberlain garage door opener when it was on sale (yay!) from Canadian Tire and paid for Canadian Tire’s third-party connection to install it. Done and done. So far, it’s working like a dream. And since it’s a belt opener, it’s much quieter than my old chain opener. Belt. Chain. Yeah, I learned about these things this month. Thanks, Dad.
I ordered this BBQ when it was on sale (yay!) from TSC – The Country Hardware Store. It’s getting shipped directly to the store, and I should be able to pick it up any day now. Then I’ll have to pull out my tools to put it together. Any advice?
Since I won a Home Depot gift card a little while ago via a Twitter party, I’m going to have a browse through the options for the other items on the list. You know, just making my way around all the hardware stores this month! Fun!
If your dad is anything like me, he may be interested in the following five items this Father’s Day.
extremely quiet ventilation fan, $107, Home Depot
ball pendant, $19.98, Home Depot
ClosetMaid closet organizer, $158, Home Depot
And for future home maintenance task lists…
Nest thermostat, $329
chrome shelf unit, $98.97
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone! And Happy Father’s Day!
I have very little time for watching TV/Netflix/movies, so I don’t have a massive list of show recommendations for you today. I just thought I’d share with you what I have been (sort of) watching over the last couple of months.
1. Chelsea. I have mixed feelings about Chelsea Handler. I sort of like her tough/funny personality, but I can only take it in small doses. I think she asks good questions, and I like her guests. For these reasons, I keep watching her show(s).
2. The Mind of a Chef. I wasn’t sure what I was getting into with this show, but I’m definitely enjoying it. The show follows Momofuku’s David Chang as he travels around the world, meets with his top-chef friends, and cooks up wild dishes (poached eggs in saran wrap – I want to try this!). I’m learning a lot! And it’s making me want to go to Japan!
3. My Way: The Rise and Fall of Silvio Berlusconi. I’m only about 30 minutes into this documentary. While I mostly like listening to Silvio Berlusconi’s Italian and seeing his massive villa, I’ve also been enjoying learning about his life.
4. Riverdale. I binge-watched this I-think-it’s-only-for-teens show in April when I had some free time. I was entertained.
5. Alice Through the Looking Glass. Why did I wait so long to watch this? What a fun movie! I loved it. I’d watch it again. Easily.
I have taken note of Rox-Anne’s recommendations from last month, and maybe I’ll eventually get to the must-watch-asap 13 Reasons Why.
What have you been watching? What are your recommendations?
Yesterday, BlogPodium – the Canadian conference for design and lifestyle influencers – announced its keynote speaker – Ms. Shea McGee of the Studio McGee. If you’ve been online searching for design inspiration, I’m sure you’ve come across some of Studio McGee’s work. It’s just one beautiful design project after another. Studio McGee brings so many gorgeous rooms to my laptop screen, and I love all the design candy! Here are just five of the spaces that may have you drooling…
Tickets for BlogPodium go on sale on Friday, May 12th. To see what’s happened in the past, check out my recaps of previous BlogPodium events.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
With Mother’s Day around the corner – on Sunday, May 14th – it might be time to start thinking about how you’re going to spoil loved ones in your life. Mother’s Day for me usually means a trip to Toronto to spend time with my mom doing everyday sorts of things – a garage sale perhaps, a trip to the mall, or just lounging around at home reading magazines. Mom and I enjoy many of the same easy-going activities. Heck, I’m sure we’ve even spent the day doing DIYs together! Mother’s Day is also a day to celebrate other moms in my life – my sister (mom of 4 cuties!) and friends, and to reflect on relationships I’ve had with other strong women who are no longer with us like my aunt and grandmothers.
In terms of gifts, I think moms appreciate any token. A card, a phone call, an email, a text, or a material object lets your loved ones know that you’re thinking about them. I like to spoil my mom with flowers because I know she appreciates them so much!
If you’re looking for some Mother’s Day gift ideas (and if you’d like to spoil yourself at the same time), you might want to have a look at Urban Barn. This Canadian retailer offers up-to-date items for your home – from big furniture pieces to smaller accessories. I’ve been to the Cambridge location numerous times, and there’s always something in white that catches my eye.
Today, I’m sharing five items from Urban Barn’s current collection that would make great gifts for loved ones.
Here’s an affordable container for a new plant or bouquet of flowers.
murl planter large, $19
Another place for flowers…or sangria…or water…is this pretty little pitcher.
Little bowls like this one are perfect for candies, jewelery, or keys.
If your mom needs a bedroom makeover, this dresser looks like it would be a great piece to add.
parker dresser, $1499
This bench would be beautiful in a garden. There’s also a full patio set, too.
piazza folding bench, $399
Many thanks to Urban Barn for sponsoring this post. All opinions are my own.