CASIE STEWART

Casie January 28, 2015 LIFE

Blog Life: Sometimes I don’t feel like it. #11

I know today is Bell Let’s Talk day and I’m not sure how to talk about the depression and anxiety that I face or if I even want to. Being on the Internet in itself gives me anxiety. Some days I just don’t feel like it at all, written about it a few times. Sometimes I want to hide and pretend I don’t even have a blog. (Or Twitter, tumblr, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram, Selfish, Rdio, Google+, Vine, or phone.) I like keeping to myself on on those days, not sharing stories. Being alone.

My dad battled depression growing up and it was really hard for our family. He moved back to New Zealand to be with his family when my parents split up and it was tough for us. It sill is sometimes.

* Thanks Andrew Mitchell for drawing this photo of me. I love it.

I want you to know that I too have days when I’m down and I’ve been through some very dark times and almost not made it through. It’s not always sunny where I am but I do try to bring my own sunshine to the internet each and every single time I make an appearance. My blog is a place you can count on to have bright colours and a fun photo. It’s helpful for me to look back and remember the good times too. This is a place to make you feel happy when a cloud tries to rain on your parade. I’ve worked through a bunch of sad days wondering what to do with my life and I made it through. Don’t ever give up. I wanted to quit blogging a few times over the last 10 years and I am damn well glad I didn’t. I want you to know, I am actually happy most of the time and I really do smile a LOT. Really. If you’ve ever met me IRL you know it’s true.

People always wonder where I get all my energy and I don’t know what to tell you? I find inspiration in everything around me. When the sun shines through the clouds. A couple green lights in a row. When a song comes on the radio and I know all the words. An actual phone call from someone you like and miss. Turning on the TV to find the movie you were JUST thinking about is on. Old photos. A pair of tights with no holes in them. Clean sheets. Accidentally spilling glitter on the floor and not even getting mad. There’s joy in the little things, I’ve gotten good at finding it.

Thinking of you and sending warm positive thoughts with each keystroke. You’re not alone, we’re here together.

<3 CASIE

Counting Down to a Pinterest Worthy Workspace

OK, don’t mind all the crap behind me because I’m going to clean it up right now after seeing how much of a mess it is! I’ve been talking about ‘getting the home office in order’ or months and really have been so focussed on doing work I’ve neglected the space. I would just die if someone came in with a TV camera from Hoarders right now. Don’t even go there. It gives me anxiety to think about cleaning and all the crap I’ve collected, then I drown myself in the Internet and pretend it’s not there. (Update: I’ve spent another 45 minutes writing this post and not cleaning. Cue anxiety even more.)

So, I was all like AHHH I have a client Skype call. They’ve never met me before! I better get dressed! I should shower! These jogging pants, time to do laundry. AHHH! So, I put on a nice shirt, makeup, lipstick, brushed my hair, fur vest, smile. AND GUESS WHAT… it was audio only. So, selfies. (BTW did you read my 10 Tips for Better Selfies? I’m a pro!)

Note my sewing machine, new, just sitting there. I’ve promised myself for two years that I’ll use it. This year, I will. I’m actually pretty good at sewing. I’ve just not made time to sit down and make anything. (*Note to self, GET OFF THE INTERNET!)

Ok, time for me to clean this mess behind me! I’ve got ~~two hours~~ an hour and a half of good daylight for cleaning. In due time I shall have a beautiful, Pinterest worthy workspace.

<3 With love,

CASIE

Behind the Scenes: Le Chateau’s Latest Lookbook #SpreadLeLove

Yesterday was SOOOOOO fun. Lozzie and I posed for the camera in studio dressed in outfits we picked out from Le Chateau. They brought together a whole bunch of bloggers from Toronto to Spread Le Love in a Valentines Day shoot.

Here’s a little sneak peek! I’ll for sure be sharing the shots once they’re out in the world!

Thanks Caroline Levin for the GREAT makeup. When I met up with Sean later he said I looked like a doll. Once we got home he said ‘are you gonna take that stuff off now?’. It’s cute that he prefers my natural face. Gah, I’m so cheezy and in love! Just wait till you see the shots from the shoot I had with him last week. They’re A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E.

A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Jan 27, 2015 at 4:50pm PST

Finished the night with a huge bowl of Pho and came home to watch The Fall.

If you haven’t watched it on Netflix yet, I highlt recommend it. It’s a sexy murder mystery with 2 seasons starring that hot babe from the 50 Shades movie coming out next month. MEOW!

I’ve got a conference call shortly that is VIDEO and I’m not even dressed or showered. Working from home is great when nobody can see you! Gahhhh. Ok, always rushing. Back in studio for Army of Sass tonight. Woo hoo!

Hope you’re having a great day!

<3 CASIE

I’m Gonna Master Ukulele One of These Days!

Had another ukulele class last night and I feel like I’m starting to get it. I knew learning a new instrument was going to be a challenge but it’s really like learning a new language. Fortunately, I can read music and the chords already. Also, a simple strum on the ukulele sounds quite nice.

A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Jan 26, 2015 at 6:17pm PST

I’m finally getting the G7 chord and my fingers are moving in time to make strumming sound like an actual song. I’ve really got to make a point to practice more though. Even if I pick up my uke for a few minutes a day I’ll have it by summer. If I sent 10% of the time I spend on computer playing I’d be a pro!

I’ve been documenting my progress on Selfish app with a story called Learning Ukulele. The photo below will take you to the app so you can check it out. I’m digging this app so far. Have a few stories about travels, my nails, blog stuff, etc.

Thanks to The Gladstone Hotel and Toronto Institute for the Enjoyment of Music (TIFEM) for great classes. I’m hoping they have a few more at Gladstone to help me along my ukulele learning journey. TIFEM has a whole bunch of classes including a free class on Sunday afternoons.

Had my nails done yesterday and I’m convinced they help my play better! Have any ukulele apps I should know about? Songs for beginners? I’ll take all the help I can get!

Can’t wait till I can play a little ditty for you! Have an awesome day.

<3 CASIE

You Should Probably Clean Up Your Computer

It’s 2015, you cleaned up your diet, you cleaned your house, you cleaned up your whole act, but seriously, when was the last time you cleaned your computer? January is Clean Up Your Computer Month and I know the month is ALMOST over but I’m sharing this as a reminder to you and to ME that our computers are neglected.

This calendar was sent to me from SingleHop, a technology company focused on cloud computing. This 3-week “Clean Computer Calendar” is designed to help you prioritize, organize and safely store files. During the third week you are encouraged to check out different options to safely store your files, such as private clouds and external hard drives.

I’ve really gotta give my little Macbook Air baby a digital bath. Thanks SingleHop for sharing! If you guys have any cleaning tips or apps, LMK.

<3 CASIE

Blogging + Brunch = Bon Weekend!

Started the day w/ a nice latte and brekky at Cafe Neon near my place. I was working on an exciting new project you’ll learn about over the next few weeks.

Loving the new leather gloves from Danier I got on my mega shopping spree yesterday. I had to pop by Le Chateau to pick an outfit for an upcoming photoshoot so I rounded up gift cards from mall stores and went to town! FYI all the winter accessories are 50% off at Danier right now. Picked up a nice pair of gloves and some goodies for the BF too.

It was pretty nice out today. Birds cherpin’!

Check out this gorgeous bag I picked up at Ted Baker’s new Eaton Centre Store. I’m in love. It perfectly matches my fav lipstick and current nails. There’s 50% off a ton of items at Ted Baker too!

Pop over and check out my Nail Game on a new app I’ve been using called Selfish. I’ve got other stories documenting my ukulele learning and travel adventures too.

In other news, I’ve entered a contest to win a trip to Montreal for Nuit Blanche at the end of Feb. I know I said ‘no more contests’ but WHATEVER. Wanna come? Join my train right here!

THERE’S ROOM FOR YOU and it’s a FREE TRIP. Invite yo friends! It would be super fun to have some of you guys (yes you reading this) on the train with me and my BFFs. All aboard!

Hope you’re having a great weekend. I’ve got a birthday at the Soho House tonight and a bloggers brunch tomorrow. Looking forward to tweeting the Screen Actors Guild Awards Sunday night. Tweet along with me at @casiestewart!

<3 CASIE

Air Optix Colors: Green Eyes, Yeah The Spotlight, Shines Upon You

In today’s adventures, I’m trying out my latest pair of Air Optix Color contacts, Gemstone Green.

I absolutely loved my last pair of Brilliant Blue contacts (see the post here) and how they dramatically changed my look. I have hazel/green eyes so adding these Air Optix Colors to my natural eyes is more of an enhancement.

Here’s a breakdown on what makes these contacts unique:

They use 3-in-1 color technology to define, transform, and brighten.
Comfort; as a n00b to wearing contacts, I’ve learned they’re really comfortable. I forget I’m wearing them until I look in the mirror and then I’m like WHOA.
Breathability – Even if work for cosmetic reasons (like me!) they’re great for daily wear.
Beauty – I love wearing glasses and now contacts are a cool way to enhance my look. They’re used by celebs and a fav of Nina Dobrev.

There’s an array of colors available and I’m hoping to try them all. You can get a rainbow pack which has 3 colours of your choice (2 lenses of each colour). Otherwise, AIR OPTIX COLORS are available in 2 packs or 6 packs of any given colour. Ask your eye doctor about them next time you get your eyes checked!

If you’d like more info about Air Optix Color Contacts visit airoptixcolors.ca. If you wanna ask me about my experience or share yours, Tweet me @casiestewart!

Smile with your eyes and have a great day! 🙂

<3 CASIE

A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Jan 22, 2015 at 10:15am PST

* Disclosure: Although I sometimes receive compensation from companies to test and blog about stuff, I always give my honest opinion and the views and opinions expressed here are 100% my own. I’m really into these new contacts and how they change my look. Ok, selfie time!

Up Your Selfie Game Part 1: 10 Tips for Better Selfies

It’s 2015 and the selfie isn’t going away. So, in the interest that you’re remembered in the most awesome and beautiful way, it’s time to up your selfie game! I’m not writing history with this post but I thought it’s about time I pull something like this together. I’m practically a ‘Selfie Expert’ after 10 years of self-photography.

Have a tip or trick I haven’t added to the list? Share w/ me on Twitter @casiestewart. Next week I’ll share Up Your Selfie Game Part 2: Apps & Accessories.

Here’s a collection of tips to take better photos of yourself:

Find your best angle. Know your good side. For most people the best angle is just above eyeline.
Check your lighting. A good light source is your friend. Natural light is great. In a dark space, look for light to shine on your face so the photo isn’t dull. If you have a front facing flash I advise against using it as it will give you a forehead glare and redeye.
Watch for shadows. If the sun is shining your way make sure you don’t get the shape of your phone on your face. Also watch for the shadow of your camera in your hand blocking the light. Rectangle on your face isn’t a good look.
Be yourself. If duckface isn’t you, don’t try to be like KimK or someone from MySpace in 2004 (that was me). Show your smile, focus on those great lips or beautiful eyes.
Do a background check. Make sure things aren’t in the way. Ex. bathroom selfie w/ toilet paper or toilet is not cute.
Freshen up. Touch up your lipstick, make sure your eye makeup isn’t messy.
Look into the camera or away, not at yourself. Remember where the camera is, that little black circle!
Strike a pose or a couple. Make your photo cute, do something! Or take a few photos and make a collage with different faces. Show some personality, baby!
Full body selfies? Have a clutter free space. Laundry and/or dirty dishes look sloppy, clean up first. S-shape is your friend. Lean a shoulder forward or turn sideways a bit for a more svelte look.
Relax. Take a deep breath, chill. You don’t wanna over think it!

A photo posted by C A S I E S T E W A R T (@casiestewart) on Dec 11, 2014 at 8:07am PST

That’s all for now. Remember practise makes perfect. I’ve taken THOUSANDS over the years. Tweet your selfies to me at @casiestewart. 🙂

Have an awesome day!

<3 CASIE

Interview for Ways We Work: Can You Guess My Fav Non-tech Thing?

Thanks to Ways We Work for this interview. I also list my fav apps and mention my struggle with email. Click the image below or HERE to reach the full interview.

I talk about my typical work day and my fav place to work. Do you know where this is?

If you feel like sharing it make sure to tag @WaysWeWork and @CasieStewart in your tweet!

Have an awesome day!

<3 CASIE

Check Out The Collection! ANDY WARHOL X Converse Spring 2015

~~Two~~ Three of my all TIME favs, Converse, Andy Warhol, Tomato Soup. Did you know I have tomato soup ALL the time. It’s always been a fav, especially with some buttered toast. I JUST got these images today and have my fingers crossed I can snag a pair. Scroll down to see the whole collection and read the press release.

What ones are your fav? These Tomato Soup hi-tops have my name all over them!

The Converse All Star Andy Warhol Collection will hit retail shelves on Feb 7th and is available at Get Outside, Gravity Pope, Groovy, Little Burgundy, Zelen Shoes, Baggins and Galaxie Bleu. They’ll retail for $75-110 CAD.

PRESS RELEASE

Marrying Warhol’s distinct vision with the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, the partnership between two pop culture icons celebrates creative self-expression and pays homage to the visionary artist. The new collection features bold Warhol imagery across an array of expressive Converse footwear for men and women.

Hailed as the preeminent artist of the 20th century, Warhol was an iconic visionary whose legacy continues to inspire rebels and artists everywhere. He creatively merged pop culture, film, music, screen printing and performance, opening the door for millions of artists and performers. Since 1987, Warhol’s vision and creativity lives on through The Andy Warhol Foundation, who fosters innovative artistic expression by supporting work that is challenging and experimental in nature. To help further the non-profit’s mission for the advancement of the visual arts, a portion of the proceeds from the Converse All Star Andy Warhol collection will support The Andy Warhol Foundation.

“With this collection, we aim to celebrate and foster the innovative artistic expression that’s intrinsic to both Converse and Andy Warhol,” said Damion Silver, Converse All Star Design Director. “Andy Warhol famously created art inspired by American pop culture icons, and was a pioneer in utilizing the Chuck Taylor All Star as a blank canvas for his work. From this shared creative history grew our collaboration with Warhol.”