Today I woke up writing a post about our Christmas dinner and writing the recipe for such dinner for you to review. Usually not all the time I have my FB open in the background and hear the dings every so often when someone I have as a favorite post's ( I do this with friends and family just so I don't miss what is going on with their lives) and today since the writing of a recipe is not really my thing I wondered off to Face book when I heard that Ding.
I graduated from highschool with some incredible people when I was in Venezuela and one of those incredible people just recently started up his on VBlog and his first post brought tears to my eyes and made me want to hug and hold those dear to my heart just a little closer. I thought about extending this post to details of what he wrote but instead I encourage you to stop by his blog The Rookie Doctor's Diary and read his post..
While some of us open presents, eat and drink - sometimes we forget to look back and see the people around us to be grateful of what we have and to think of those that may be going through a tough situation..
Thinking of every one of you with Love,
V
Friday 26 December 2014
Wednesday 24 December 2014
DIY - Santa Wrapping - Release the Artist within!
I know it is a bit late perhaps to write this post - however if you are still looking for some ideas to wrap your presents.
I love crafts and painting and I do believe that adding a personal touch to your wrapping makes them even more special!
Here is a finished one -
- Kraft Paper
- Tape
- A pencil
- Acrylic Paint - (or Watercolor)
- Black Sharpie (thin and regular size)
- Images for guidelines (I found mine on Pinterest - So many ideas!)
So here we GO!
Wrap your present with the Kraft paper. Pick out the design you want to place on the present! again Pinterest is a great place to find ideas.
Trace out your image on the paper - Don't be concerned if the sketch isn't perfect I promise it will look great in the end. All you need is an outline for you to start painting
- Here is my outline -
After the outline is done pick your acrylic paint start painting in your outlines, I water mine down a bit so it doesn't go on to thick. If you water down the paint it also does not leave a sharp line, This makes it easier in case you miss the outline that you did - So again if you are off a bit DONT WORRY! You can also use water colors but if you are trying to not spend a lot of money stick to acrylics - you can find decent acrylics at walmart for a great price!
Here is the painted outlines! doesn't look all that great
Here is a close up of the paint - Not a perfect job I went over some lines and under for others
After the paint dries, go through the whole painting with a sharpie, I would use the thicker sharpie for the outside layers and leave the thin sharpie for the details ( eyes, nose, hears)
Here is the finished product!
Here are a couple of before and Afters so you can see some ideas as well -
Painting and pencil outline
Paint and Sharpie Outline
A favorite of mine!
Close up of the before and after from Painting to the Sharpie out line - a Basic painting can change with highlighting the details of the image
For the Minnie and Mickey image here is the paint I used and the sharpie, as well for the colors I also used white and red - Totally forgot to place them for the image lol
Here is another quick note for these wrappings - Use sharpie to add any names, quotes or wishes - and to give them an extra touch add little dots at the end of each line changes the style of the handwriting completely
Talking about details, I added some more lines to try and simulate movement and it adds more to the image - not quite sure if you can see it but just a thought if you decide to do these ..
So here are some of the paintings that I did - I might update this post after Christmas with all of the rest of the images. But as for this post, if you decide to do these you can go as complex or simple as you like - at the end of the day they will still look awesome!
In case I don't finish all of my other post's that i am hoping to finish for today then I wish you all a Wonderful Christmas / Holiday - for you, family and friends . ..
Love, V
Peaches & Apricots
Top 10 Favorites!
Ok so first, I realize many blogs post about their favorite recommendation of products they have but I think the more the better! there is always going to be products that someone else is using that you had NO idea it would work miracles on you! In saying that not everyone is the same so what works for you may not work for me and vice versa. We have to remember skin and hair types are not the same
so for most of the face products are for mixed to oily skin. Although I have many other products on this list that are not for the face! I may post more favorites later on since these are not my only favorites but for sure the top ones.
1. Fresh - Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil
I really enjoy this oil. I use it in the evenings after I have washed and exfoliated my skin. Since my skin is mixed/oily I am prone to acne and I found that if I use the Fresh oil without exfoliating I break out. So I would suggest using a mild exfoliator to remove any impurities (left over makeup, dust and dead skin) to allow you face to absorb the nutrients and ingredients of this oil.
Main ingredients are:
Omega 3,6,7 and 9: that help your skins elasticity, it softens as well as it soothes your face. Perfect for relaxing before your beauty sleep
- Seaberry Oil
-Cranberry Seed Oil: a great antioxidant for your skin
I recommend using it at night during the summer and you can use it at night and during the day in winter since skin tends to dry out in the cold weather. Use 2-3 drops on your finger tips and spread on your face and tap, let it absorb (if mixed with moisturizer for the day apply 2 drops and let it set in and apply your makeup) This oil paired with some moisturizer in the winter has become my new best friend!
you can find it online, I purchased mine at Sephora.
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
2. Saje - Tantra Sensuos Mist
So I got my first care package of Saje from one of my friends for my bridal shower and I am hooked!
This is one of my favorite products that they have. It was part of the package my friend got me and I have since bought more! I use this before bed or during the day - if I am agitated and need to center back again I use it as well. Two words to describe it Relaxing and Soothing. I pair this one with the Seaberry Oil we just talked about. Spray a bit in the air and walk through the mist, breath and relax. Or you could spray it directly on your face just keep your mouth and eyes closed!
Ingredients:
Lavender: used for relaxation and in aid of stress and anxiety
Sandalwood: relaxes and aids with sleep
Vanilla Infusion: stress relief
Rosewood: antiseptic, anti depressant and aphrodisiac .. - oh la la -
Green Mandarin: helps with anxiety and stress tension
Patchouli: helps with Stress and fatigue - Patchouli is also good for hair and eczema
Purified Water - I think this one speaks for itself
So as you can see this is pretty much stress relief in a bottle! Also for all you yogi's out there spraying a bit on the matt and on yourself before a session is awesome! many of the ingredients are also antiseptic and disinfectant so it serves as a cleanser and deodorizer for your matt
Saje also carries many different products that we will review in the upcoming posts but if you cant wait that long stop by there page ---> Saje and check out all of their goodies!
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
3. Ciaté - Speed coat pro
Ok so as an inside note I would like to go out in the open and say I have addictions.. many of them and believe me we will touch on them (not in one post though) and perhaps we might share some of them.. But as for my first: Nail polish. I love getting my nails done! any color so many different designs to pick from.
I will set time to do them and I will do fancy drawings/designs on them and after I have spent x amount of hours on them and I believe they are dry - they smudge (!#$$%&) All that time trying to fix your nails for them to crap out.
Yep I had many of those, but then I found Ciaté's Speed Coat Pro and it is AWESOME! it dries out the nail polish (not extremely fast) but fast enough that it does not get damaged! and it helps preventing color from pealing off
Their nail accessories are really cute to and love their nail polish colors too. Check out their page to view and select out of their many colors! -- > Ciaté
And for a closer store you can also check out Sephora.
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
4. Bliss Kiss - Pure Nail Oil
Talk about addicting! I LOVE this! once I am done painting my nails this goes on and I usually try to use it once or twice a day and it works wonders for my cuticles. I splurge a bit more and end up using on my hands and they are not dry anymore!
Ingredients:
- Jojoba Wax ester
- Grape Seed Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Vitamin E Oil
- Vitamin A Oil
- Essential Oil Blend
Check out their page and read on some reviews and a couple of more details regarding this product.
Pure Nail Oil and check out more products that they have!
Talk about addicting! I LOVE this! once I am done painting my nails this goes on and I usually try to use it once or twice a day and it works wonders for my cuticles. I splurge a bit more and end up using on my hands and they are not dry anymore!
Ingredients:
- Jojoba Wax ester
- Grape Seed Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Tea Tree Oil
- Vitamin E Oil
- Vitamin A Oil
- Essential Oil Blend
Check out their page and read on some reviews and a couple of more details regarding this product.
Pure Nail Oil and check out more products that they have!
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
5. Thayers - Rose Petal
Toner - it does wonders for your face and balances your PH levels and soothes your skin. However not every toner works for all types of skin and that is based on their ingredients. I personally break out with some of them and as far as face products go I love Clinique out of all products it works wonders on my skin - However I have tried all their Toners and they dry out my skin quite a bit.
My sister got me hooked with the Thayers Rose Petal and Witch Hazel Toner and it also has Aloe Vera
It is Alcohol and paraben free. The Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera are wonderful to help with Acne and they are also antibacterial
I have heard references regarding that the taste of it is horrible and that if it gets in your eyes it stings like crazy - but here is the thing, Don't ingest it and Don't get it in the eyes
You could also do home made rose water - ( we will do this later on)
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
6. EradiKate - KAte Somerville
If you have issues with Acne and have tried every kind of cream and treatment for acne - Check this one out!! it smells quite a bit strong specially when applying it close to the nose
I don't usually get a lot of acne, but when I do get acne they tend to be MASSIVE - and I know I am not the only one! Wondering around Sephora I found this beauty ... and I am amazed on how great it works.
To Use:
- Do not Shake! you should be able to see the liquid inside almost like you would Oil and Water.
- Wash your face and prep with your night routine. Avoid putting any creams or toner on the affected area
- Dip a Q'tip in the jar
- Dab the Q'tip on the acne and let dry
- Leave over night
- Wash your face in the morning and proceed with your morning routine!
Note: you can apply this twice a day (morning and night) I usually only apply it at night
it clears your acne without having to pick at your face and damage your skin!
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
7. Oil of Marocco - Marc Anthony
I love soft healthy hair - problem is how many times I have dyed my hair and every so often it looks like one of those metal scrubs you use for the kitchen.. Yup!
I first ran into this I was getting a bit tired of spending money on tons of different hair products and decided to try the Oil of Marocco, and I LOVE it! it feels a bit greasy when you start applying it but it definitely does the Trick!
I only apply 2-3 drops on my ends (after I shower) since my roots are pretty healthy and tend to get greasy if i apply ANY kind of product. After this I style it as usual.
if you are looking for a low budget hair repair product - try this one out!, you can get it at any grocery store.
I love soft healthy hair - problem is how many times I have dyed my hair and every so often it looks like one of those metal scrubs you use for the kitchen.. Yup!
I first ran into this I was getting a bit tired of spending money on tons of different hair products and decided to try the Oil of Marocco, and I LOVE it! it feels a bit greasy when you start applying it but it definitely does the Trick!
I only apply 2-3 drops on my ends (after I shower) since my roots are pretty healthy and tend to get greasy if i apply ANY kind of product. After this I style it as usual.
if you are looking for a low budget hair repair product - try this one out!, you can get it at any grocery store.
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
8. Lip Glow - Dior
Yes, this is a bit on the $$ side but it is one of my to go to lip glosses. It is absolutely smooth and I love how it plumps up the lips! You might feel a little bit of a tingle on the lips but nothing to crazy
Note: the color of this lipgloss changes from person to person - It brightens up the natural color of your lips so it depends on the color of your lips.
Add this on top of colored lipstick and Purfection!!
Perfect for some New Year Lips! Sephora and Shoppers carry this Lip Balm
Yes, this is a bit on the $$ side but it is one of my to go to lip glosses. It is absolutely smooth and I love how it plumps up the lips! You might feel a little bit of a tingle on the lips but nothing to crazy
Note: the color of this lipgloss changes from person to person - It brightens up the natural color of your lips so it depends on the color of your lips.
Add this on top of colored lipstick and Purfection!!
Perfect for some New Year Lips! Sephora and Shoppers carry this Lip Balm
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography
|
9. Smith's Minted Rose Lip Balm
The first thing that got me hooked on this was the smell - weird I know. At my Bridal shower a friend was using this and I was extremely curious about this mint smelling lip gloss.
I know I say this lots but I LOVE THIS! I have extremely chapped lips and once I started using the lip balm and it makes a huge difference!
Some comments that I have heard -
for some it smells like talc and it is uncomfortable and sticky to get out of the container.
To me - I smell more of the mint than anything else and there is some mild rose scent to is as well.
as for the container issue, I place it on directly on my lips from the container without using my fingers!
The first thing that got me hooked on this was the smell - weird I know. At my Bridal shower a friend was using this and I was extremely curious about this mint smelling lip gloss.
I know I say this lots but I LOVE THIS! I have extremely chapped lips and once I started using the lip balm and it makes a huge difference!
Some comments that I have heard -
for some it smells like talc and it is uncomfortable and sticky to get out of the container.
To me - I smell more of the mint than anything else and there is some mild rose scent to is as well.
as for the container issue, I place it on directly on my lips from the container without using my fingers!
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
10. The Fab Pore - Facial Peel
Ok, so personally ALL of Fab products are great! I have several of them and they work awesome! So far I have found these at Shoppers, a bit on the pricey side so perhaps try using one of their products and check out how they work for you.
So there are definitely a lot of mixed reviews for this product and they are ALL valid, some people don't notice the difference and there are others that love it. I am in the love group.
I have mixed skin so it is at times difficult to find at times something that works. On the container it says facial peel, however it is more of an exfoliator. I think the one downfall for me is on the cheek side it makes them feel a bit stretchy afterwards. I apply a moisturizer and then it feels awesome. Due to this I have started using it on my forehead and chin and no more tense feeling on the cheeks!
Another thing to consider is you need to have a couple of applications before noticing changes on your skin - I recommend using this once a week for mixed skin users.
So there are definitely a lot of mixed reviews for this product and they are ALL valid, some people don't notice the difference and there are others that love it. I am in the love group.
I have mixed skin so it is at times difficult to find at times something that works. On the container it says facial peel, however it is more of an exfoliator. I think the one downfall for me is on the cheek side it makes them feel a bit stretchy afterwards. I apply a moisturizer and then it feels awesome. Due to this I have started using it on my forehead and chin and no more tense feeling on the cheeks!
Another thing to consider is you need to have a couple of applications before noticing changes on your skin - I recommend using this once a week for mixed skin users.
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
11. Dark Angels by Lush
Another Face scrub I love - I use this scrub 1 - 2 times a week. I have mixed skin so it tends to go super oily and dry all at the same time! but it is also extremely sensitive so using this everyday for me is not an option. This is used as a scrub but I also leave it on as a mask. After, I use the Rose Toner and love the way my face feels!! There are definitely many more products from lush that I love but this one is perhaps my absolute favorite!!
With all this Christmas partying and makeup give your face a little lift with this!
Another Face scrub I love - I use this scrub 1 - 2 times a week. I have mixed skin so it tends to go super oily and dry all at the same time! but it is also extremely sensitive so using this everyday for me is not an option. This is used as a scrub but I also leave it on as a mask. After, I use the Rose Toner and love the way my face feels!! There are definitely many more products from lush that I love but this one is perhaps my absolute favorite!!
With all this Christmas partying and makeup give your face a little lift with this!
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| Photography: Vintage Blossoms Photography |
A bit of a long post! however - Here are my TOP 10. There are definitely more since I am a bit of a hair/makeup/clothes Junkie but these are high up there.
Enjoy and if you use these and have other notes LET ME KNOW! And also let us know about your Favorite 10!
Love, V
Peaches & Apricots
Thursday 13 November 2014
A hope for Love
Hey guys,
Today I would like to post on behalf of a good friend of mine. As you have read from previous posts I am from Venezuela, and that is where I left a great deal of friends as well as most of my family.
I did 1st grade in a school called U.E Araguaney and the people I met there became my family for the next 11 years. As a group we went through a lot specially in our graduation year and we grew even more together.
After I moved to Canada I did loose a bit of touch with them but I still look them up and see how their lives are doing and making sure they are ok.
I have one friend that got married earlier this year and it is about her and her husband that I will be making reference in this post.
Selena is probably one of the most sweet and caring individuals I have ever met. It was bound that she was to marry a sweet guy and live happily ever after - At least that's what you want for your friends as cheesy as it may sound.
Selena and Daniel married this past January (2014)
and now several months after their wedding this beautiful couple is going through probably one of hardest things they will have to face in their life. Daniel was diagnosed 3 months ago with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma - here is a brief extract from the Canadian Cancer Society Website:
"Because lymphocytes are found throughout the lymphatic system, NHL can start almost anywhere in the body. It usually starts in a group of lymph nodes in one part of the body, such as in the neck, above the collarbone, under the arms, in the abdomen or in the groin. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, which usually spreads in a predictable, orderly way from one group of lymph nodes to the next, NHL doesn’t spread in a predictable way. NHL can spread to almost any tissue or organ in the body through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream"
Read more: http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/?region=on#ixzz3Ixd9MqbC
Currently Daniel and Selena are living in Falcon- Venezuela. There is a shortage on medical supplies in Venezuela due to the Social - Political and Economical issues that are going on. Daniel still requires Radiation, Chemotherapy, Stem Cell Transplantation among many other treatments.
Usually I don't ask for donations - But you do what you can for family and that is what Selena is and by extension her Husband Daniel.
A little bit goes along way. Donations do not have to be huge, little by little you can help. And even if at the time you are unable to make a donation then perhaps share the word.
Daniel and Selena would appreciate it.. and so would I.
Here is a link where you can make your donations and there is a small video and notes Regarding Daniel . -------->Lets Support Daniel
Thank You
Vanessa
Today I would like to post on behalf of a good friend of mine. As you have read from previous posts I am from Venezuela, and that is where I left a great deal of friends as well as most of my family.
I did 1st grade in a school called U.E Araguaney and the people I met there became my family for the next 11 years. As a group we went through a lot specially in our graduation year and we grew even more together.
After I moved to Canada I did loose a bit of touch with them but I still look them up and see how their lives are doing and making sure they are ok.
I have one friend that got married earlier this year and it is about her and her husband that I will be making reference in this post.
Selena is probably one of the most sweet and caring individuals I have ever met. It was bound that she was to marry a sweet guy and live happily ever after - At least that's what you want for your friends as cheesy as it may sound.
Selena and Daniel married this past January (2014)
and now several months after their wedding this beautiful couple is going through probably one of hardest things they will have to face in their life. Daniel was diagnosed 3 months ago with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma - here is a brief extract from the Canadian Cancer Society Website:
"Because lymphocytes are found throughout the lymphatic system, NHL can start almost anywhere in the body. It usually starts in a group of lymph nodes in one part of the body, such as in the neck, above the collarbone, under the arms, in the abdomen or in the groin. Unlike Hodgkin lymphoma, which usually spreads in a predictable, orderly way from one group of lymph nodes to the next, NHL doesn’t spread in a predictable way. NHL can spread to almost any tissue or organ in the body through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream"
Read more: http://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/?region=on#ixzz3Ixd9MqbC
Currently Daniel and Selena are living in Falcon- Venezuela. There is a shortage on medical supplies in Venezuela due to the Social - Political and Economical issues that are going on. Daniel still requires Radiation, Chemotherapy, Stem Cell Transplantation among many other treatments.
Usually I don't ask for donations - But you do what you can for family and that is what Selena is and by extension her Husband Daniel.
A little bit goes along way. Donations do not have to be huge, little by little you can help. And even if at the time you are unable to make a donation then perhaps share the word.
Daniel and Selena would appreciate it.. and so would I.
Here is a link where you can make your donations and there is a small video and notes Regarding Daniel . -------->Lets Support Daniel
Thank You
Vanessa
Wednesday 12 November 2014
Frosty Heaven
I arrived in Fort McMurray in August several years ago and I remember I was wearing Jeans, Sneakers 2 socks 3 Layers of shirts plus a sweater and a Jacket - and yes my friends I was still cold.
The thing is when you lived in +30 weather August feels like winter when you arrive into Fort McMurray. Seeing snow for the first time was AWESOME! again you don't really see this back home. Although I remember while living in Houston we got to see hail! - not as pretty. But snow - Totally different. Now this whole awesome feeling was crushed somewhere after 4 months of still seeing snow, -20 ish temperatures and slips/trips and falls on the snow/ice. I was done!
And then there was the first Christmas I spent with my parents at our first house in Canada - I cant even remember what time it was but the lights outside the house were lit up and there was this incredibly beautiful fluffy snow falling and I was starring through the window with my little sister - and I fell in love with winter all over again. And again winter and I transition through this love/ hate relationship years at a time.
The last time I felt that way with winter was a couple of years back when my husband and I setup the Christmas tree in the place we have been calling our home now- we weren't married then and we had just started living together. After it was setup I turned on the Christmas tree, turned off all the lights, opened the windows and sat down to enjoy the first Christmas tree setup in our home - and of course the first of many
Its funny how I have been here for several years now and people say "oh you will get used to it" and you know what - I actually think my whining with winter is worse...
I love taking photographs but I do not like taking pictures outdoors in the winter - Don't get me wrong I will and I give my 100+% to my customers - but its cold and windy and cold - lol
You are probably wondering why I am ranting about my love hate relationship with winter and believe me I have a point! we just cant rush into these things.
A photographer friend was looking for a companion to do some outdoor photos this past Sunday and I asked if I could join - We braved the start of this winter at 6:30 am to catch the sunrise at - 20.
We grabbed some hot beverages and took off to our winter expedition. We headed towards the river and took our gear out of our camera bags to start taking pictures. I struggled a bit trying to get the settings on my camera and was getting a little frustrated. After a few minutes it clicked in and I decided to take a couple of macros and LOVED them! I felt like a little kid looking at the frost through my camera and checking out the frost on the branches and the ice on the river. After several minutes I looked up and it hit me that love for winter again - perhaps not the best time since it was -20, but still.
I looked over at Virginia and she was clicking away, looking for new spots and another thing hit me - Not all of us get to do what we love and right then I was looking at a friend that despite the cold was inspired and looking for more to take pictures of; and despite the cold she was loving what she was doing.
We talked in between clicks checked on each other to make sure we weren't getting to cold - and talked about how beautiful it was and how not a lot of people consider Fort McMurray beautiful
And it's true. Not many of us do - even I don't at times. And I truly believe that in our busy lives we need to stop and take time to look at all the beauty that surrounds us. It doesn't matter how cold it is.
Here are some of my photos below from my outdoor shoot with Virginia. Also please take a few minutes to take a look at her page ----> Virginia Frank Photography and check out her absolutely stunning photographs.
Thank you for stopping by
Vanessa
The thing is when you lived in +30 weather August feels like winter when you arrive into Fort McMurray. Seeing snow for the first time was AWESOME! again you don't really see this back home. Although I remember while living in Houston we got to see hail! - not as pretty. But snow - Totally different. Now this whole awesome feeling was crushed somewhere after 4 months of still seeing snow, -20 ish temperatures and slips/trips and falls on the snow/ice. I was done!
And then there was the first Christmas I spent with my parents at our first house in Canada - I cant even remember what time it was but the lights outside the house were lit up and there was this incredibly beautiful fluffy snow falling and I was starring through the window with my little sister - and I fell in love with winter all over again. And again winter and I transition through this love/ hate relationship years at a time.
The last time I felt that way with winter was a couple of years back when my husband and I setup the Christmas tree in the place we have been calling our home now- we weren't married then and we had just started living together. After it was setup I turned on the Christmas tree, turned off all the lights, opened the windows and sat down to enjoy the first Christmas tree setup in our home - and of course the first of many
Its funny how I have been here for several years now and people say "oh you will get used to it" and you know what - I actually think my whining with winter is worse...
I love taking photographs but I do not like taking pictures outdoors in the winter - Don't get me wrong I will and I give my 100+% to my customers - but its cold and windy and cold - lol
You are probably wondering why I am ranting about my love hate relationship with winter and believe me I have a point! we just cant rush into these things.
A photographer friend was looking for a companion to do some outdoor photos this past Sunday and I asked if I could join - We braved the start of this winter at 6:30 am to catch the sunrise at - 20.
We grabbed some hot beverages and took off to our winter expedition. We headed towards the river and took our gear out of our camera bags to start taking pictures. I struggled a bit trying to get the settings on my camera and was getting a little frustrated. After a few minutes it clicked in and I decided to take a couple of macros and LOVED them! I felt like a little kid looking at the frost through my camera and checking out the frost on the branches and the ice on the river. After several minutes I looked up and it hit me that love for winter again - perhaps not the best time since it was -20, but still.
I looked over at Virginia and she was clicking away, looking for new spots and another thing hit me - Not all of us get to do what we love and right then I was looking at a friend that despite the cold was inspired and looking for more to take pictures of; and despite the cold she was loving what she was doing.
We talked in between clicks checked on each other to make sure we weren't getting to cold - and talked about how beautiful it was and how not a lot of people consider Fort McMurray beautiful
And it's true. Not many of us do - even I don't at times. And I truly believe that in our busy lives we need to stop and take time to look at all the beauty that surrounds us. It doesn't matter how cold it is.
Here are some of my photos below from my outdoor shoot with Virginia. Also please take a few minutes to take a look at her page ----> Virginia Frank Photography and check out her absolutely stunning photographs.
Thank you for stopping by
Vanessa
Egyptian Goddess
Its been a while since I have done a themed photo shoot and I have been tossing the idea to do an Egyptian themed or I guess it would be better to say an Egyptian Inspired Photo shoot and well earlier this summer I was at a friends baby shower and spotted one of her friends as my potential "Goddess" Candidate - Creepy I know - but I am more than 100% sure that I am not the only photographer out there that has an idea for a specific look and as soon as they see the person perfect for the shoot they go "A-ha!". You almost want to get up in the middle of a busy room and point out to the person and saying that "A-ha!" or "Eureka!" but in reality you have a to be a bit more stable and proper about approaching these things - without looking or sounding like a creep.
So I asked my friend if she could get me in contact with her friend and it was then the awkward "Hey would you be interested in doing a Photo Shoot?" and that is how I met Lauren Elliott.
Not going to lie sending that message was not easy - to be honest I was very intimidated. I have been wanting to go out and workout and well have not gone around it or I do but I have no commitment. And well sitting down with this girl that when you look at her she is a smoke show! makes you reconsider that doughnut you had in the morning .. And well this awesome lady is probably one of the most down to earth individuals I have ever met. She is extremely sweet and kind and she has her Shit together! We got together to talk about the theme of the shoot, get measurements and such. We talked for a while - and well I had to ask how do you do it? stay fit the way you do? and the biggest thing I got from her is Conviction - She knows what she wants and well she works hard at it. After that first meeting with her I looked at myself and said no excuses! ( truth is I have had ups and downs since then but again no one is perfect) I have the opportunity to have her as a friend now and the dedication that she has towards her workouts and meal preps is amazing. And as you will be able to see below it pays off! She looks amazing!!
I am extremely grateful to have worked with her in this project - I have gained a new friend who is a big sweetheart and "mentor" in this road to a healthier life. If you are have a few, take a look at her blog! < Beauty and a Beast > Hopefully we will be sitting down with her within the next couple of months to talk about her journey as well - Stay Tuned!!
As for the other amazing members of this project:
I had the opportunity to do my first collaboration with Cherie Walsh of Muse Makeup Artistry & The Naked Tan. She is amazing to work with, an incredible Artist and an absolute sweetheart. Another individual that I was nervous to work with and it went smoothly - As an artist that she is I gave her a few ideas for the makeup I was looking for and she did an incredible job and made my vision come true! Please take a few minutes to look at her work and check out her services - Muse Makeup Artistry
For the hair I asked my friend and Hair Stylist Brandy Maczko to work her magic on Lauren and after changing my mind several times we both agreed on a hair style. And again this is why I loved working with this group of talented individuals - the day of the shoot Brandy asked if we could incorporate a braid into the look and I think it made a huge difference with the overall look and brought everything together. Brandy works at Razors Edge - she is an incredible hairstylist and a joy to work with!
The jewelry was provided by Amanda Green and Katie Seggie - please check out Amanda's page if you are interested in some Stella & Dot jewelry. I will be referencing the pieces that we used on the photos just in case you would like to take a peek on Amanda's Stella & Dot site.
A huge thank you to my Rock on this shoot - Katie Seggie. From holding reflectors to accessorizing Lauren - to keeping me on track and keeping me CALM most of all. The jewellery combinations were setup by Katie and I loved the pairings she did! She also Assisted with the wardrobe prep helping with the beading and final setup of the tulle pants. I could have not completed this shoot without her.
- The Top was purchase at LaSenza and the embellishments were added to the piece with beads purchased from WalMart and Fire Mountain Gems. A LOT of sewing went into this.. between Katie and myself we finished the top just in time
Here is a before and after:
- Pants were made with fabric and tulle purchased at WalMart.
Thank you for stopping by,
- V -
"True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul"
Model - Lauren Elliott
MUA - Cherie Walsh of Muse Makeup Artistry and the Naked Tan
Hairstylist - Brandy Maczko - Razors Edge
Jewellry - Stella & Dot Rep. Amanda Green & Katie Seggie
Concept/Photography - Vintage Blossoms Photography
Wardrobe Setup/Prep - Vanessa Beltran / Katie Seggie (Crafts By Katie)
Lauren's Tanning was done by - Dark and Devious Sunless Tanning
So I asked my friend if she could get me in contact with her friend and it was then the awkward "Hey would you be interested in doing a Photo Shoot?" and that is how I met Lauren Elliott.
Not going to lie sending that message was not easy - to be honest I was very intimidated. I have been wanting to go out and workout and well have not gone around it or I do but I have no commitment. And well sitting down with this girl that when you look at her she is a smoke show! makes you reconsider that doughnut you had in the morning .. And well this awesome lady is probably one of the most down to earth individuals I have ever met. She is extremely sweet and kind and she has her Shit together! We got together to talk about the theme of the shoot, get measurements and such. We talked for a while - and well I had to ask how do you do it? stay fit the way you do? and the biggest thing I got from her is Conviction - She knows what she wants and well she works hard at it. After that first meeting with her I looked at myself and said no excuses! ( truth is I have had ups and downs since then but again no one is perfect) I have the opportunity to have her as a friend now and the dedication that she has towards her workouts and meal preps is amazing. And as you will be able to see below it pays off! She looks amazing!!
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Pegasus Necklace
I am extremely grateful to have worked with her in this project - I have gained a new friend who is a big sweetheart and "mentor" in this road to a healthier life. If you are have a few, take a look at her blog! < Beauty and a Beast > Hopefully we will be sitting down with her within the next couple of months to talk about her journey as well - Stay Tuned!!
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
Earrings: Medina Chandeliers Earrings
I had the opportunity to do my first collaboration with Cherie Walsh of Muse Makeup Artistry & The Naked Tan. She is amazing to work with, an incredible Artist and an absolute sweetheart. Another individual that I was nervous to work with and it went smoothly - As an artist that she is I gave her a few ideas for the makeup I was looking for and she did an incredible job and made my vision come true! Please take a few minutes to look at her work and check out her services - Muse Makeup Artistry
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
Earrings: Medina Chandeliers Earrings
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
The jewelry was provided by Amanda Green and Katie Seggie - please check out Amanda's page if you are interested in some Stella & Dot jewelry. I will be referencing the pieces that we used on the photos just in case you would like to take a peek on Amanda's Stella & Dot site.
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Makena Pendant Necklace
Outfit: Necklace: Makena Pendant Necklace
- The Top was purchase at LaSenza and the embellishments were added to the piece with beads purchased from WalMart and Fire Mountain Gems. A LOT of sewing went into this.. between Katie and myself we finished the top just in time
Here is a before and after:
- Pants were made with fabric and tulle purchased at WalMart.
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
Necklace: Currently Unavailable
"Beauty Begins the moment that you decide to be yourself"
- Coco Chanel -
Copyright: Vintage Blossoms Photography
Necklace: Rebel Pendant - Gold
Bracelet: Sardinia Bracelet
Thank you for stopping by,
- V -
"True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul"
- Audrey Hepburn -
Model - Lauren Elliott
MUA - Cherie Walsh of Muse Makeup Artistry and the Naked Tan
Hairstylist - Brandy Maczko - Razors Edge
Jewellry - Stella & Dot Rep. Amanda Green & Katie Seggie
Concept/Photography - Vintage Blossoms Photography
Wardrobe Setup/Prep - Vanessa Beltran / Katie Seggie (Crafts By Katie)
Lauren's Tanning was done by - Dark and Devious Sunless Tanning
Monday 11 August 2014
Genie
Today has been a great loss for the Acting and cinema community. An amazing actor has left us as all of you may know by know.
My husband mentioned this today and I was baffled, sad and instantly nostalgic. Nostalgic of the days my family and I lived in Huston.. Watching Aladin in the theaters for the first time and laughing at the movie and being happy - I was 4. And then I started going through the many movies that I have watched of this amazing actor and was brought back to family time watching his movies, watching Jumanji with friends .. And so many more ...
I cannot imagine what his family is going through at this time, and I would like to say that I know not in the same level as they are but I think that we have lost someone as well. And that the hearts of all those who he touched are thinking of his family at this time.
Thank you Robin - you will be missed
-V-
My husband mentioned this today and I was baffled, sad and instantly nostalgic. Nostalgic of the days my family and I lived in Huston.. Watching Aladin in the theaters for the first time and laughing at the movie and being happy - I was 4. And then I started going through the many movies that I have watched of this amazing actor and was brought back to family time watching his movies, watching Jumanji with friends .. And so many more ...
I cannot imagine what his family is going through at this time, and I would like to say that I know not in the same level as they are but I think that we have lost someone as well. And that the hearts of all those who he touched are thinking of his family at this time.
Thank you Robin - you will be missed
-V-
Edmonton - Weekend Get away!
My husband and I go to Edmonton quite a bit. To visit family, I go for work sometimes and well, to get out from the day to day routine.
So planning a weekend getaway in Edmonton? A couple of places you need to stop by:
- During the day you can visit The Muttart Conservatory.
Designed by Peter Hemingway and in my opinion it is one of the areas in Edmonton that you have to go to! 3 pyramids with different plants and different temperatures. One of the 3 pyramids is their "Featured Pyramid" and it changes throughout the year - All themes are absolutely beautiful. If you have kids (toddlers) this would be a great place to go! so many neat plants to see - they will be for sure asking lots of questions!
Designed by Peter Hemingway and in my opinion it is one of the areas in Edmonton that you have to go to! 3 pyramids with different plants and different temperatures. One of the 3 pyramids is their "Featured Pyramid" and it changes throughout the year - All themes are absolutely beautiful. If you have kids (toddlers) this would be a great place to go! so many neat plants to see - they will be for sure asking lots of questions!
Here are some pictures of some of the plants you may find there
- Another great place to go to - (Opens May 1st until Thanksgiving) is The Devonian Gardens located 30 minutes from Downtown Edmonton. this outdoors facility is absolutely Gorgeous! definitely a DO NOT MISS type of spot!
- Edmonton Art Gallery:
If you want to do something a bit out of the norm or if you enjoy looking at Artwork there are some amazing pieces at the Edmonton Art Gallery. From Paintings, to sculptures to Photography. So even if your not a big fan of Art's I nudge you to go and take a look plus you are close to food places as well AND there is always a good time to try new things!
Expand thy artistic self!
If you want to do something a bit out of the norm or if you enjoy looking at Artwork there are some amazing pieces at the Edmonton Art Gallery. From Paintings, to sculptures to Photography. So even if your not a big fan of Art's I nudge you to go and take a look plus you are close to food places as well AND there is always a good time to try new things!
Expand thy artistic self!
And what about Food?
- La Poutine - if you don't mind the none healthy kind-of food every blue moon. Please stop by La Poutine! So many choices and different kinds of Poutine!! Bacon, pulled pork, Mexican style, shepherds pie Poutine? Why not??
I would suggest getting the small one since they are very filling or go for the large if your up for the challenge?!
This place is AWESOME! delicious Mexican food. The service is amazing.. It gets a quite busy so you might have to wait a bit to be seated but it is definitely worth the wait! you can also check out their menu online and see what you will be expecting! for the first time I would suggest to pick one item from the menu. Meals are a pretty decent size and I can asure you more than one item from the menu might be too much - below 3 of my favorite! the Pork Torta with guacamole and Totopos accompanied by the Dos Equis!
So this is a personal favorite, I usually order a # 1 and I have been ordering the same plate for the last 6 years!! It is boiling broth that they serve in a bowl and they add beef brisket, cilantro, onions and green onions right before it is served! So it will finish cooking in front of you! They also give you a small plate with bean sprouts and lemon and you also give you a selections of sweet sauce and hot sauce to add - every time we Are in Edmonton we have Pho. There are definitely more things on the menu to try but for now the # 1 is my #1 at Pho Hoa Fusion Noodle House - Please note that it is not a big Fancy restaurant and the service is fairly quick but do not be discouraged if you are up for new things this is a place to go!
- Cactus Club (West Edmonton Mall)
I love to go to Cactus Club for dinner, it gives me another excuse to get dolled up and EAT!. This is one of those places that anytime and anywhere I go to it, the service and quality of food is the same - DELICIOUS & AMAZING! anything you pick form the menu you will love (at least that's the way it works for me) plus it is a family restaurant to so you can bring your little ones. The one in the West Edmonton Mall has a bar area, restaurant and a patio - so you have selection for seating. And wait time? since that is always annoying to have to go through.. Not long at all, every time I have been there it is a 10 -15 min wait tops! take a look at the appetizing plates below and tell me it doesn't make you hungry... I dare you!
- The Red Piano at Bourbon Street (West Edmonton Mall) - Good place to go to hang out with friends and have some drinks and enjoy the show! the music is awesome, they have dueling pianos! the atmosphere is vibrant! you have to reserve to get a table and they only reserve for a min of 4. If not you can show up and find a spot to sit close to the bar ( I suggest going early if this is your option)
So just a couple of my favorite spots in Edmonton I recommend -
What are your favorite spots in Edmonton?
Excited to hear...
Thanks for Stopping by
- V -
Peaches&Apricots