It’s officially October and that means I’m publicly allowed to share all things pumpkin. I’ve indulged in the occasional pumpkin spice latte too early to report to you, so for now we’ll just pretend this is my first foray into the gloriousness of all things pumpkin this season. I’ve never been a huge Nanaimo Bar fan over the years, and I couldn’t pinpoint the exact reason why for you either. Yet when I saw these Pumpkin Chocolate Cheesecake Bars in the Butter Celebrates! cookbook, I knew I had to test them out. Oh. My. Goodness. These little bars of deliciousness are almost indescribably good. Oreo cookie crumb crust with a creamy, pumpkin cheesecake middle, topped with a thing layer of dark chocolate. I used 70% Cacao chocolate, and it complimented the cheesecake and Oreo wonderfully. It’s literally perfection in every bite. Excuse me while I have another bar or three, just to make sure they’re on point for you guys.
Equipment Blouse, Paige Denim, DVF Cardigan, Rebecca Minkoff Belt, Valentino Handbag
Friday is coming in hot with a snowfall worthy of North of the Wall. So while others may be upset about the extra precipitation, I’m holding out hope that post snowfall we’ll still get another taste of fall. I have plans for all the cozy stay-in activities for the weekend, which will probably include pulling out the winter gear for a round of fun in the snow. While snow is on the agenda, I’m also excited to start donning outfits such as this, which could easily take one from a mid day meeting to drinks with friends after work. One of my favourite looks from the past couple of years has been a tucked in blouse with a fabulous belt to top it off. I’m finally able to wear my jeans sans the elastic band holding them together (a classic maternity trick, that I carried well into postpartum life), which means all of the tucking in and all of the belts. Be prepared to see this look reworked all fall long my friends.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
I have been incredibly thoughtful about the items I’ve introduced into my wardrobe over the past couple of years. While I have persisted in taking items to consignment on the regular, I’m still struggling to find my style, and therefore have been hesitant about adding anything. While my look these days is definitely more casual nights in than fancy nights out, I’ve been searching for a coat that has the versatility to reside in more than one category. Last season teddy bear coats were everywhere, and it looks as though they’re here for more than a hot minute. I love the look, the comfort factor, the coziness and the fact they look amazing with everything from denim to joggers. I’ve rounded up my favourite selection that’s currently available, and I have to say, I’d be hard pressed to pick just one.
- alo Norte Sherpa Coat
- J.Crew Plush Fleece Bomber Jacket
- BRUNETTE the Label Josephine Teddy Jacket
- Splendid Olympia Faux Fur Jacket
- Jack by BB Dakota Soft Skills Sherpa Faux Fur Jacket
- alo Foxy Sherpa Jacket
- UGG Jackeline Teddy Bear Jacket
- TOPSHOP Fleece Jacket
- Aritzia Wilfred Free The Teddy Jacket
- I.AM.GIA Pixie Coat
Alice + Olivia Dress, Elizabeth & James Blazer, Reebok Sneakers, Loeffler Randall Handbag, PIPERWEST Watch
There are very few trends that I jump on board with these days. Some I see coming and I turn and run in the other direction. Some I see and immediately love but know that the shelf life of the trend is short lived, so I swerve. Others I care not if longevity is a factor, but the overall look and comfort indicates that I’ll have it in rotation long after the trend dies off. This summer the dress and sneaker trend hit hard, and I fell even harder. I love the idea of an easy piece like a dress paired with the comfort of a sneaker. Athletic, casual, classic or coloured, it matters not, I’ve seen an array of sneakers paired with dresses, although admittedly, it seems as though the current white sneaker trend is dominating this particular look. If you’re like me and struggle with transitional ensembles for fall, simply pair your dress with a blazer or coat, or pull out that midi dress with sleeves and the look immediately goes from summer to fall. My look has major Working Girl vibes, complete with Classic Reebok, and let me be clear, I’m not mad about it.
Photos by Kiera Schussler
Aritzia Dress, Valentino Sandals, DVF Clutch
I honestly cannot believe that we are in the last week of summer, is anybody else wondering where it went? While autumn is my absolute favourite time of year, my love for summer is lingering, as this summer was the best I’ve had since before having my children. They’re finally at an age where packing up and spending the day at the beach is enjoyable, going to the farmer’s market is appreciated, and playing outside in the sprinkler is a legitimate afternoon activity. We spent a good portion of the summer visiting my family at the lake, and we embarked on our first big family vacation, traveling down to Montana. There was an abundance of blissful, simple, uncomplicated togetherness, and so many moments of contentment in this season of stillness. Don’t be fooled, there were many, many moments of messiness, toddler tantrums, and tremendous tests of patience. All in all, however, it was wonderful, and the memories of the difficult times are already fading away as the joyous occasions become etched into remembrance. I think when you have kids that’s the only way you can survive, wouldn’t you agree?
