Here, for you, are a few of the latest and greatest to check out…

Adorn Inc. – Adorn Inc., is a delightful blog done by local freelance writer April Overall. Sharing mostly images and inspiration, April comes across some of the most pleasing pictures and products out there on the Internet.

Thriftkitty – This recent addition to Ottawa’s blogging scene offers readers quirky, crafty insight into the joys and triumphs of thrift shopping right here at home and out there on the Information Superhighway. With passion and zeal, Thriftkitty occasionally reveals her secrets and steals, but given her intermittent posts – this girlaboutOtown suspects she would rather be shopping!

OttawaDiva – This brand new blog – started just in the last week or so – has been brought to life based on the notion that Ottawa needs to embrace bolder attitude. Brace yourself. The Ottawa Diva does not mince words.

Apartment613 – Also new to Ottawa’s burgeoning blog scene, Apartment 613 is a very clever, very cool site covering everything from neighbourhoods and city news to books and brunch. Regularly updated, and featuring a handy weekly wrap up, this one site is definitely worth watching.

Spins and Needles –Ottawa’s creative types have been convening regularly at The Spins & Needles Craft and DJ night since 2005. This convergence of craft and community is always enjoyably enhanced with spun sounds and spirits. Now, the “crafty half” of Spins and Needles – co-founder Melanie Yugo, shares some “spin off stuff” with readers of her recently started blog.

Designing Ottawa – Maria Cook from the Ottawa Citizen is to be commended. Finally, someone is talking about architecture, public space and urban design with insight and intelligence that applies right here in Ottawa.  If you were following the Lansdowne Park/Kanata Soccer Stadium debate, you should not have missed Maria’s contribution.

Modern Ottawa – Launched just since January, interior designer Marie-Judith Jean-Louis’s blog about local modern design is definitely something different for Ottawa. Take a peek inside some of the city’s most contemporary spaces, learn about the fundamentals of urban design, or even consider some of her constructive – but kind – criticism of Ottawa’s most recent Home and Garden Show.

Design Ties – Kelly, of Jax Decor & Design in Ottawa, and her co-conspirator Victoria of EdinDesign Interiors in New Westminister, B.C., are each building business in the design field. Blogging about all things home & garden related with enthusiasm and energy, it is nice to see some more local content in the design and decorating domain.

Thankfully, many very smart brand experts out there can.  After consulting the oracle (Google), and reading up here and there, I can only begin to appreciate the notions of brand identity, brand personality, brand value, and brand promise. 

Personally, I like the way Martin Thoma simplifies:

“Your brand as the sum total of all that is known, thought, felt and perceived about your company, service or product…it exists only in the mind of the public. It can be created, developed, managed, influenced and even bought and sold – but it cannot be owned or controlled.”

Does the concept apply to cities then?  Think for a moment. What do you know, think, feel and perceive about San Francisco, Paris, or Hong Kong? What about Ottawa?  What do you know, perceive, think and feel about Canada’s capital? 

There are many who think that cities are brands, and it seems Ottawa is no different.  In fact, Tourism Ottawa has been working on this idea for a while now. Some very specific brand guidelines have been developed to help market Ottawa as a destination, and to extol the virtues of our fair city to the world.   For fun, I’ve condensed them here into a Wordle…

What do you think? Do these brand-building concepts speak to you? Do they accurately describe the Ottawa inside your mind?  Do they capture your imagination? Is this a place where you long to live?

This question of Ottawa’s brand interesting to ponder in the midst of the heated public discussion underway about the fate of Lansdowne Park, the Kanata Soccer Stadium, and Ottawa’s urban development in general.  The city is in a tizzy, and rightfully so.  What happens will matter to us all, and not simply because of the money. 

Even if you are not a sports fan, big buildings, significant architecture, and public infrastructure are a critical element of a city’s collective identity. Design matters.  Done right, these city-building mega projects can serve more than their primary purpose…they can inspire genuine pride in generation after generation of urban dwellers. They can even become iconic symbols of greatness; of a time and a place when people came together to contemplate a better future, and when decision-makers went beyond mere expedience by considering their investments as an enduring legacy.  

Whatever the impetus or motivation, and in spite of inevitable controversy, big things can happen. Good things. Things that can make a strong statement to the world, that improve with age, and that might actually be perceived positively through the lens of history. 

This might be one of these times in Ottawa, so more than a little public engagement is healthy.  Let’s come together, listen carefully to each other, and to invite great ideas into the discussion. What kind of place do we want to become?  Only when we hear each other will we be able to imagine our future.  Building on needs, let’s also consider our wants and use more than a little imagination. 

To do otherwise would be to miss an opportunity.

Here is the Ottawa inside my head.  This is the city where I want to live…

Recently, the National Capital YMCA launched a Capital Campaign to revitalize the Metro Central YMCA on Argyle St., to expand the Orleans branch, and to redevelop the Y Camps.  The “Strengthening the Heart of the Community” initiative aims to raise $35 million in total, and is the single most ambitious fundraising campaign in the history of the Y, with a target of $15 million to come through community events and personal donations.

I believe wholeheartedly in the mission of the National Capital YMCA, which is to “build strong kids, strong families and strong communities”, and I have more than a passing interest in its sustainable well-being.   I am a Y parent, you see, so I have an up-close-and- personal understanding of how critically important it is to rebuild the bricks and mortar at the Metro Central Y, in particular.   This is a vital focal point for community service at the centre of the city, and it is badly in need of repair. 

Each and every workday for almost three years, I have proudly left my little girlaboutOtown under the careful supervision of the extraordinary Metro Central Y childcare staff.  With patience and sensitivity, this incredible team has provided an open, inclusive, and nurturing environment in which all children – regardless of circumstances – are encouraged to grow, to learn and to develop to their fullest potential.  This is a place where diversity is celebrated, where self-esteem is built strong, and where values are witnessed in action simply as a matter of course.

I feel a strong connection to this place and its people.  Not only are the childcare programs shaping brighter futures, the Metro Central YMCA also helps more than 14,000 immigrants to settle and adapt to life in Ottawa, and provides essential emergency and second-stage housing for nearly 1,000 people in need each year.   All of this while over 40, 000 fitness facility members are maintaining their good health and wellness at the gym, and many more are participating in sports, recreation and learning activities!  These programs and services are making a meaningful contribution to city life here in Ottawa, and have undoubtedly been of enormous benefit us all.

The Metro Central YMCA is place that has helped our community immeasurably.  Now our community can help this place!

To find out more about the campaign, to volunteer or to donate, visit the Strengthening the Heart of Our Community.

To make an online donation right now, click here.

Many more than I will be grateful…

If you have ever harboured cubicle escape fantasies, wondered if you might be destined for something different, or hoped your secret hidden talent might actually support be able to you, then you need to know about Cherry Pie.

More than just your average women’s business network, Ottawa’s Cherry Pie events are some of hottest tickets in town.  Started back in 2004 by local mover and shaker Catherine Landry, Cherry Pie is more of a phenomenon than a function, and attracts women entrepreneurs of all kinds.   From development to execution, Cherry Pie is about women helping women do business better.   It’s an opportunity start smart and learn from the experts, to make connections with potential collaborators, to source unique new products or services, or even to market an existing enterprise.  All of this, and a swank, sophisticated atmosphere as well!

So why not consider it?  See and be seen next Tuesday at the Lago Bar & Grill among some very savvy women who also know how to have fun.  Indulge in a few tasty treats by Executive Chef Robin Bowen, who will be preparing flavourful fare exclusively for the Cherry Pie event, and enjoy an entirely different kind of girls night out.  

Kick-off is 7PM next Tuesday, March 31st at the Lago Bar & Grill, Dow’s Lake Pavilion.  Tickets are available at the door for  $15.00 each or 2 for $22  (students $8).

RSVP to Catherine at Catherineknows@videotron.ca or call 819-776-5161.

And, speaking of seriously savvy women… Catherine Landry, the brains behind Cherry Pie sets a strong example for us all.  “My very great friend Sandra and I were talking one day about all our talented friends and how they should combine forces”, Landry explains, “so I organized the first Pie 4 years ago”.  Since then, it’s been growing like crazy, and what started as a hobby has now turned into almost a full time production. 

Landry, a former nightclub manager, has decided to focus her time and energy on bringing people together through new ideas, concepts and events.  Not prepared to sit back, she wants to do what it takes to address issues, build momentum and make a real difference.  In addition to Cherry Pie, Landry is also planning projects to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in Africa, and raise funds to help those suffering right here in Ottawa.  This is a woman who is not afraid to face a challenge head on, and who is on a mission to kill complacency with creativity, with community and with courage. 

Lucky for me, and for girlaboutOtown readers, Landry was kind enough to take some time away from her busy planning to answer a few questions… 

You are making a big contribution to the Ottawa community.  How would you describe your contribution?  I – me myself personally – am not making a contribution rather, I am working super-hard motivating others to get together, work together, support each other,  and to share tips, techniques, and contacts. Welcome your competition in the workforce as it encourages customer attention.

Who do you partner with to make Cherry Pie happen?  I reach out to businesswomen in this city who “get it”.  They don’t ask a million questions, they just understand that putting 400 businesswomen under one roof in a cool sophisticated environment is a valuable networking tool.

How did you come up with the name Cherry Pie?  When Sandra (who has been a Cherry Pie supporter ever since) and I were having that initial conversation, we were listening to rock music. The Warrant song “Cherry Pie” came on, we started air-banding to the music, and I had a eureka moment.  Good thing we weren’t listening to Barry Manilow or these events might have been called “Mandy-Minglers”! 

How often are Cherry Pie events held?  How many have there been?  In 4 years we have held 11 events.  This will be number 12.

There doesn’t seem to be a lot of advertising or lot of PR fanfare about Cherry Pie.  How do you get the word out?  We get the word out like that old Pantene Shampoo commercial…I told two friends…who told two friends..and so on..and so on. 

Despite the low-key approach, Cherry Pie seems to be very popular.  Why do you suppose that is?  Sometimes things that are driven by organic momentum last longer.  I am not a gangster and not out to hustle these women for their money.  It is a sweet thing to see people become successful and do well.  This encourages a feeling of being safe and secure, which in turn creates a feeling of independence.

How many women typically attend?  Up to 400 women are expected at this event on March 31.

What kind of entrepreneurs do the Cherry Pie events attract?  Is there a particular demographic or type of business person that attend in larger proportion than most? I   think there is a new wave of women who are empowered.  With this economy women really are taking the reins, directing strong business growth and becoming successful.   A Cherry Pie lady “gets it” and really wants others to do well.  In return, she will do well.  There is nothing so sad as people who don’t support good things.

How strong is the Cherry Pie network between events?  Is there a way for participants to keep in touch in between events?  I tend to be ground control and manage to network everyone’s requests.  I always say “TELL THEM CHERRY PIE SENT YOU!” and it works.

Can you give any examples of Cherry Pie success stories?  I think everyone is a success due to the fact that they mustered up their strength and their experience and DID IT.  If they came to the Pie with no business sense or tons of business sense,  it doesn’t matter at least they made the effort to try.  That has to be rewarded as many of these women have super-busy lives so to take on the additional stress of starting a business—everyone’s a winner.

What is your favorite part about organizing Cherry Pie? I LOVE hooking people up so they can get stuff done and make things happen.  Walk the Walk.

What are your plans for Cherry Pie?  A website…CHERRY SODA , a youth mentorship program… a summer wild cherry event…a Montreal Tarte aux Cerises event,  and then a Toronto Hogtown Cherry Pie…! 

What was your childhood ambition? Helicopter pilot.

What is your greatest indulgence?  Sleep.

What has been the hardest thing for you to learn? Effective communication.

What is your secret hidden talent?   I can see the future through tarot card readings.

What are you passionate about?   Youth.  They really need to be respected and listened to.  They have great ideas.

What would be your perfect day? Lenny Kravitz bringing me breakfast in Bali!

What are you doing when you lose track of time? Thinking up ideas – my brain is like NASCAR at Disneyland!

Given a choice, would you pick a cupcake or a tart? Tarts..hello…the pre-cursor to the pie.

How would you describe your personal style?  Like that of a 12 year old..sneakers, hoodies and t-shirts.

What impresses you?  The truth.

What do you like to talk about most?  I am a listener.

Favourite music?  Hip hop, classical & old school house.

And what about life in O-town?  What are your favourite restaurants?  The Brig Pub on York Street has amazing food.  The tuna salad is 5 stars!

Favourite stores to shop at? Wallacks, NORML Clothing, Mrs. Tiggywinkles, and the marker and pen aisle at  Staples.

Good ol’ Ottawa fun? A Ginette Bobo drag show.

Collage image credits – Lago Bar & Grill and Real Simple.

Sometimes, I read about events and happenings online or in the newspaper, and sometimes I deliberately go looking for something new and different to take me outside my comfort zone.  I have even ventured into the realm of social networks and joined a few Facebook groups.  Lately though, I’ve been getting some really great tips from girlaboutOtown readers.

Just today, I  came across this ever so interesting tidbit in my inbox from a reader who knows my affinity for cupcakes well.  She also knew this event might appeal to other similarly inclined girlaboutOtown regulars.

So what is it? 

Well it seems that Ottawa is about to experience its very first CupcakeCamp.

What the heck is a CupcakeCamp you ask?  Good question my darlings, good question.

Here, in the words of the cupcake campers themselves, is an explanation:

CupcakeCamp was originally the brainchild of a group of folks in San Francisco. The idea was to bring together cupcake lovers, bakers, and eaters. The first one was a huge success so we thought we would bring it to Canada. The first Canadian CupcakeCamp took place in Toronto at LabSpace Studios on January 25, 2009. A second event is planned for Ottawa on March 29, 2009.

CupcakeCamp is an opportunity for our community to come together and share their enthusiasm for cupcakes with all proceeds going to Ottawa’s Women Alive/Femme Active Program! Everyone who brings cupcakes will have the opportunity to brag about their creations which will be presented to the Tasters for a cupcake tasting frenzy!

Who knew?  Apparently, the cupcake movement continues unabated.  Cupcake love is still in style, and cupcake related events continue across this great land.  Joy and sweetness in the name of women’s health?  What’s not to like? 

So sign up to bake or taste, if you dare.

Sunday, March 29th, 2009  from 2 to 5 pm at the Jack Purcell Community Centre, 320 Jack Purcell Lane.

This upcoming Sunday evening, the Mayfair guys will be rolling out the red carpet for a live telecast of the 81st Annual Academy Awards on the big screen.  And, in true movie-biz form, they will be serving up spirits in addition to the regular refreshments available; no doubt ensuring this party will be Oscar-worthy.

Sponsored by SAW Video and CKCU, the party is free for Mayfair and Saw Video members, so if you aren’t one of the lucky ones, get there early!

Feb. 22nd, 8pm – Doors open at 7:30.

Images from people magazine, the insider, totalhair.net.

This super slick glossy magazine is by far the best interior focused publication here in Ottawa, and it is a ‘must have’ for local house & home addicts like me.  Not only does this once a year edition offer readers a peek inside some of Ottawa’s most beautiful and intriguing spaces, it also provides indisputable evidence of a growing community of builders, decorators, architects and developers passionate about design.    Editor Sarah Brown, in collaboration with a number of well known local writers and photographers like Janet Uren and Rémi Thériault, makes it interesting by ensuring that the magazine reflects Ottawa’s diversity of decorative preferences.  

Featuring a range of looks from traditional to modern,  this year’s Interiors Edition includes 3 small spaces with serious style, a restored firehouse, and an expansive new build (made to look old) on the shores of Britannia Bay among others.  Also included is a spotlight on fellow web writer Sabine Modder, managing editor of big-time design blog MocoLoco and a quirky, kitschy vintage trailer makeover.

There is much to learn about Ottawa’s design scene.  Check the news stands now, and see for yourself!

 Photo of Ottawa Magazine’s 2009 Interiors Edition by me.

This has taken me awhile, it’s true.  It may even have taken me too long, but what the heck.  It was fun.  I took some time and really thought about it a lot.  Turns out, I had a really tough time narrowing it down. 

So, to those of my fellow bloggers on the list below, no rush…it’s tougher than it looks! 

Decorate it Darling

ThriftKitty

Youth League and the Spies

Victoire

Lake Jane

Ottawa Arts Blog

1.  Lists:

I love lists.  I am constantly making them.  It’s almost as if they’re my most effective means of self-expression. They’re quick and easy to do, they don’t need to be perfect and they provide a sense of deep satisfaction – both in writing them and in crossing them off!  I make them on the back of envelopes, on the refrigerator, on multicolored sticky notes, and in my head.  Actually, I am almost always making a list of some kind in my head, or trying desperately to remember to add whatever item or task  to a list I already have underway.  My mother often refers to the notebooks she totes as her “brains”.  It seems I’ve inherited this same approach…

I’ve kept journals, sketchbooks and agendas for years, but now I rely exclusively on my Moleskine, which travels with me everywhere I go. 

Anyway, my lists have most definitely served me well over time, as I’ve kept track of much more than just my daily “to do’s”.  In fact, they’ve truly helped me to be less reactive and more focused on what’s important for moving myself forward. 

My fella once referred to the constant whirl inside my head as a “beautiful storm”, which was profoundly flattering, and even a bit romantic.  I do try to remember his kind characterization, especially in my more scatterbrained moments, as it does provide me a wee bit of relief.  Instead of feeling like a complete freak, I end up feeling more like a creative genius with an endearing intellectual habit.  This can be quite comforting at times….

Other than groceries, the following is a partial list of the lists I maintain:

1. -To do – today, this week, this weekend, this month and this year….
2. -Ideas & plans  – including blog posts, creative projects and entrepreneurial directions
3. -Things to learn
4. -Experiences I want to have
5. -Places to see
6. -My favourite things
7. -Stuff to acquire – including furniture, clothing, household goods, and jewellery
8. -TV shows I would love to “pitch” if I had time
9. -Dream vacations
10. -Thoughtful gift ideas for those I love
11. -Shopping excursions – locally and beyond
12. -”Must Do” decorating
13. -”Aspire To” decorating
14. -Internet stops to make
15. -Movies to see
16. -Books to read
17. -Personal improvement objectives
18. -Why I’m grateful
19. -Things I want my daughter to know
20. -Wardrobe basics still outstanding
21. -Things to make time for
22. -Lists I need to make

(you get the idea…)

2. My Green Machine:

I don’t know how I would survive without my laptop.

Eighteen months ago, I finally decided to equip myself at home.  Prior to then, I had been more or less happy with a museum artifact for a home computer supplied by my employer for use on those few “work at home” days when productivity took precedent over my presence.  I would  bank online or surf only when necessary, and I viewed myself as a bit of a technophobe.  Interestingly, I was also feeling restless and uneasy about the direction my life was headed in.

Then, I heard leading social media marketer Mitch Joel of Twist Image at a conference.  I heard him loud and clear.  “The future is now!”  he said emphatically, and I was convinced.  After listening to him speak about the emergence of Web 2.0, I immediately left the building and went directly to inquire about the purchase of a laptop.  Looking back, this was a pivotal moment, and it precipitated a giant leap forward for me.  It was then that I realized the awesome enabling potential of the Internet. 

Shortly thereafter, I was the proud owner of a shiny new Dell – with a long list (as per above) of things I wanted to learn specific to the digital world.  In fact, my New Year’s resolution just last year was to sign up for Facebook, and then find out more about Flickr, Blurb, Etsy and E-Bay.

Anyway, it wasn’t long before the my laptop, the Internet and Google helped to transform both my outlook and my life.  I know it sounds dramatic, but if you consider that I have been blogging since June, I’m quite proud of the accomplishment. 

Once logged on, a world of possibility was revealed to me and I began to see paths and opportunities I hadn’t previously noticed.  To start, I signed up for a reader, uncovered a community of like-minded individuals, learned about blogging, and began to feel empowered.  Each step forward I took, I was confronted by obstacles – both real and perceived – and each and every time, a resolution could be found online.  By tapping into forums, by searching Google, or even by reading personal development blogs, my learning and development was fast, furious and undeniable.  Google became my catalogue for the Universe.  I could shop for, look at or learn whatever I wanted to, whenever a thought crossed my mind, and there was no limit to what could be found. 

Fast forward to now.  As it turns out, the kind of self-directed discovery that is facilitated online is perfect for someone like me (with a cerebral storm underway most days!).  Since acquiring my laptop, I have started a blog, rediscovered my passion for decorative design, signed up for school, learned to manage time more effectively, balanced my work and life, started to sketch,  taken my digital photography to a new level, dabbled in graphic design, begun to think seriously about a more creative and independent career,  and even imagined a different future.

Thanks to my green machine, I am no longer restless or uneasy.  I’m inspired, motivated and busily creating the life I imagine.

3. Vintage Living:

I confess to being a consumer by nature. In my own defence however, I also believe this is an essentially human instinct.  Since the dawn of civilization, our desire to surround ourselves with beauty has inspired the creation of art, decorative objects, furniture, architecture, clothing and jewellery.   Our collective appreciation of art, adornment and finery throughout history cuts across culture, class and geography, and unites us in the recognition that creativity has made a tangible contribution to the evolution of humanity.  Fighting the compulsion to create, share and acquire beautiful things seems to me like denying our capacity to love.

Anyway, we have all gone a bit overboard, and now this innate desire for beauty seems to have been replaced by a mad drive to accumulate useless crap.  This same stuff takes way too much energy, resources and cheap labour to manufacture.  While I too have been known to swoon over pretty things that sparkle or rationalize the acquisition of some shiny new little do-dad, I am increasingly uninspired when perusing the vast variety of available matter.  The sheer volume of goods that are produced for mass consumption astounds me, especially when considering that most of it will someday settle into a landfill somewhere. 

Instead, I have begun to develop a penchant for old things, and vintage living has become almost a philosophy for me.  I have grown to value longevity, quality and timelessness in just about everything I want – or need – to acquire, and most often, would rather sift through what has already been used to find what I’m looking for.  From cars and clothing to furniture and first editions, I believe that making “heirloom” choices can contribute to a more sustainable way of life, and that by learning to discern the treasures from trash, I can reduce my impact and enjoy life’s small luxuries.

Images from Wary Meyers and Domino Magazine.

Whether it be a junk shop, a thrift store, a garage sale, an antique market, a flea market, an auction or estate sale, finding vintage,  thrifted, or “upcycled” goods that inspire me while also serving a purpose  just suits me better than frequenting big box mall or the local dollar store.  So, when buying new, I try to get only what I know will last as long as possible and otherwise, I prefer to shop vintage. 

And, as my shopping habits have evolved, I’m pretty sure I have spent less and gained considerably.  My sense of personal style has strengthened, my environment has grown more reflective of who I am, and my little girlaboutOtown has even begun to eye up my wardrobe.   One day years from now, she may be able to wear what I have  acquired, as I often keep her in mind when making choices.

4.  Books and Magazines

Despite my stated belief in the virtues of vintage living, I’m not beyond reproach.  I love books and magazines, and can’t accept the notion that there will ever be such a thing as too many.   Over the years, I have wrestled with this addiction, through several phases of simplification and more than a few moves, but I have finally conceded.  While dragging several hundred pounds of books and magazines from place to place may have been bit embarrassing, there is no doubt that I do not regret keeping them.  I read and re-read regularly, and relish the thought of curling up and returning to them again soon.

Evidently, certain themes have emerged in my choices, and over time, I have curated quite a library of design & decorating, fashion and architecture related reading.  Add to these a decent supply of business & marketing, personal growth & development, and art & photography books, and it seems I have succeeded in surrounding myself with a real life collection that reflects my most enduring interests and passions. 

Currently, I subscribe to no less than 5 monthly periodicals, and shamelessly acquire both new and used  books as often as I can rationalize it.  My Amazon Wish List is among my top-five most visited bookmarks, and I am constantly adding to it.

 5.  My Home

It’s a little house on a corner, and it is different than most in town.  In fact, its “one of those things that not like the others”, and I suppose that is one reason I love it so much.  Off a main road and into a neighbourhood not known for trendy shops or tony real estate, my place sits under a pair of majestic white pine trees and is surrounded by an excess of peony bushes (is there such a thing?).  A bit out of place maybe, but right in the centre of the city, this little west coast craftsman style cottage feels a bit like cheating.  It is almost as though I have uncovered a little slice of California life right here in Ottawa, the thought of which makes me smile every day.

It is bright and sunny with a Southern exposure, and dotted with windows in every direction.  With wood floors, high ceilings and a cozy second floor that is only half height, this unique house will most definitely need its fair share of care and attention over time. But, it is a decorator’s dream.  I am never without hopes and aspirations for it, and I look forward to making it a more intimate, personal and happy home as I settle in through the years.

With its old-fashioned front porch, coloured stucco and symmetrical design, it is a charming and unpretentious retreat that is both comfortable and completely liveable.  Small spaces require a certain discipline, but they can be liberating as well.  Rather than feeling overwhelmed by too much cleaning or maintenance, I am inspired by the enormous potential of the house and excited to participate in its evolution.  As a former real estate junkie – who once had a constant eye out for the next house for sale that might be more suitable – I am profoundly satisfied to have found myself here at home.

My home is similar in look and feel to this historic craftsman style home in Richmond, British Columbia, from Bob_2006.

6.  Music:

Ok.  Last, but not least, I love music.  I am not a musician, a music historian, or an audiophile of any kind, but I do listen.  When I do,  it is because my soul demands it.

Music has always been a core component of my life, and its affect profound.  At times, I have felt a real communion with the universe through its sound, and I have been known to lose myself completely just listening.  I cry, or dance, or think deeply in these moments, and I am at once comforted and inspired by its  its cathartic power.  There are certain strains that will always lift my spirit, or lyrics that stir memories, and there are some songs that I simply must sing.

I don’t have a huge “High Fidelity” style collection, I haven’t bought an iTune yet, and I have no affinity for any particular genre.  Instead, I prefer to enjoy a diversity of melodies, harmonies and rhythms, and I like to listen alone.  That is not to say I don’t enjoy live music, or singing around a campfire, or even sharing in someone else’s experience, but when I am alone, and the music is loud, I am at peace.

Image source 

While I do love to scrounge around at the local Sally Ann or Value Village in the hopes of scoring a find, there is really something to be said for taking a more civilized approach.  Rather than suffering bright lights and sifting through the racks, the little girlaboutOtown and I had a lovely morning browsing in the warm glow of the sun, surrounded by the sounds of Jack Johnson singing softly in the background, and indulging in some seriously sweet treats.  All of this, and we were presented a spectacular selection of top notch vintage pieces, lovingly curated and displayed with careful attention to detail.

Legendary in local circles for her vintage clothing collection, Harris was trying out the “trunk show” concept following the recent closure of her Ottawa Antique Market store.  With considerable stock still in storage, and plans to continue selling her wares at various antique and vintage clothing shows, Harris was looking to  reduce her inventory to a more manageable and moveable size.  Lucky for us! The variety of clothing, jewellery, and accessories was impressive, and the prices were downright fabulous…

It is clear that Harris loves her work, and is deeply committed to the ‘rescue’ of top quality, finely crafted, beautifully preserved iconic wardrobe pieces.  This was no traveling trunk of junk.  Instead, Harris made it super easy for vintage fanatics, shopaholics and fashionistas alike by offering up the good stuff.  From refined sweaters and scarves to elegant dresses and coats, it was hard not to “ooo” and “ah” aloud while taking each and every timeless piece out to admire, even when there was no chance it was going to fit. 

In any event, it seems to this girlaboutOtown that Harris’ trunk sale was a total success.  In addition to the Harris team of friendly (and very well dressed) helpers, there were plenty of people enjoying this uncommon occasion who obviously appreciate the appeal of vintage fashion.   The dressing room was permanently occupied, the racks were constantly replenished, and the spirit of cooperation was tangible.  I, for one, hope this first was not the last!

For more about Mary Ann Harris, check here. To find out more about upcoming shows and events, join her new Ottawa Vintage Fashion News Facebook group.

Vintage Rage announcement courtesy of Mary Ann Harris, photo collage by me.

Apparently, there are loads of online Sweeper networks that keep tabs on all kinds of contest opportunities, and share tips & tactics with each other in the hopes of winning big.  Surprisingly, many actually do.  At last check, my friend’s group had amassed over $300,000 worth of prizes in the past year alone, and even she was boasting about her most recent free meal.  Not a bad haul of cars, trips, shopping sprees and cash for a just few extra minutes of effort every couple of days….

So, in keeping with the spirit of the Sweepers, I’m passing along word of a cool little contest right here in town.  Turns out, the folks over at Ottawafocus.com have just announced a winning possibility of their own. 

Enter now until March 6, and you may end up with a pair of tickets to see the upcoming traveling musical production of The Wizard of Oz, appearing at the National Arts Centre this March 10 to 15.

I myself am a lover of musical theatre, and would certainly feel fortunate to see this classic show free of charge!  Perhaps the Wizard himself can assure me of a win…