Day 211: Thanksgiving 2020 by the Lake

For the last few years, Sean and I have spent Thanksgiving at the cottage. We’ve been getting the Swiss Chalet ‘festive special’ for about four years now. This year we couldn’t dine-in so we got takeout and went down to Muskoka Beach Road to watch the sunset. Thanksgiving 2020 ftw.

This year I’m thankful for Sean and my family, how close we’ve all gotten the last few months through the pandemic.

I’ve also really become close with a bunch of friends and somehow, even though we’ve not seen each other much in person, we talk more than ever.

I am also very thankful for the internet, for keeping us all connected. To the internet for hosting my blog diary that’s helped me build a career and document my memories.

I can’t imagine trying to remember everything I’ve done over the last week, 6 months, or 15 years without having it written down.

33 Power Words That Make People Buy Immediately (and why)

Around this time last year, I decided to make a change in my life and start working out. I’m grateful that I stuck with it, that I didn’t give up, that I changed my eating habits, and learned to love myself more.

I remember seeing this Nike ad years ago, the message stuck with me. Why put off until tomorrow something you could check off your list today?

If you want to make a change in your life, start now. Start today. By tomorrow, you’ll already be on day 2.

Sending you love, hope you had a nice wekeend.

Day 210: Sisters in the Woods

Woke up and ran 4km in the morning then stacked some wood from this HUGE pile we had delivered. My sister and her bf arrived just after lunch and it was so nice to hang out. It’s been ages since they came to visit up up here.

It was an absolutely beautiful day! We stopped by our cottage neighbours place so she could meet the friends I’ve been telling her about the last few months.

So grateful to have some friends on the lake after years of not really knowing anyone. We are planning to spend more time up here this winter. The cottage isn’t fully winterized but with the base board heaters and heaps of wood, we’ll be nice and warm.

Day 209: Start A Creative Project

After years of THINKING about using my sewing machine, I finally busted it out last month. It feels so good to get into a creative project! I’ve been fantasizing about sewing for years. My goal is to make a whole outfit by the end of the year. I’ve got heaps of old vintage patterns from mum and I’m dying to tackle at least one of them. Since I was a kid, I’ve dreamt of making clothes. I used to make them with mum while I was a little. I love fun outfits and creating my own style.

I started w/ scrunchies as I’m a little rusty! It’s been A WHILE. ? I posted this video on Instagram today and a bunch of people said they would love yo have one. I’m doing this as a hobby for now while I hone my skills, but who knows where it will take me. Last month, I wrote a post titled You Don’t Have To Monetize Every Hobby (Day 183), I think it’s important to create for the sake of creating without the pressure to make money doing it.

This weekend we’ll be up at the cottage, my sister is visiting, and I have a bit of work to catch up on. I’m planning to make a few more scrunchies from old clothes to give to friends. I’m excited!

Love to know what you are working on! Share anytime! This long weekend is the perfect time to start something!
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Day 208: Make Sure They Know

Tell your family, tell your friends, make sure they know you love them. Call, text, email, tweet, DM, FaceTime. If you’re thinking about someone, let them know. We need connection more now than ever.

You never know what someone is going through behind the smiling selfies and social posts. One little message could turn someone’s day around.

I love sending voice notes to people. More intimate than a text and there’s something special about hearing someone talk directly to you. If you ever want to chat with me, send me a message on any app or an email. My DMs are always open!

Love you xo

Day 207: USA, IF YOU ARE READING THIS, PLEASE VOTE.

Sometimes I look back when writing my post for the day and think ‘wow that was only yesterday’. Lately, each day seems like a week and weeks like months. If only weekends could be longer!

Watched the debate tonight and it was…entertaining, frustrating? Seemed pretty tame compared to the shit show last week but yikes. What a time we are living in.

If you are reading this from the USA, please VOTE. If you have questions about voting, please visit iwillvote.com for info or to register.

My fav thing about televised world events is following along on Twitter. It’s the place news breaks, memes hit first, and trending topics tell the story of what people are saying. I was pretty tired last night but once the debate started, I was tuned into Twitter and couldn’t look away.

The highlight of the night was the fly that sat on Mike Pence’s head for two whole minutes. WTF?! Who doesn’t realize there is a fly on their head! The Biden team was quick to respond with merch encouraging people to vote.


That’s all for today, leaving you with another great re-face, me as Marilyn Monroe! It’s incredible how realistic these look.

Day 206: Free Spirit, Baby!

Busiest workday I’ve had in a while but I am feeling GOOD and excited about what’s coming in the next few months. Feeling like a FREE SPIRIT.

Sending you love through the internet today. We are living in crazy times right now but we all have the ability to make the most of it. I look back to my early pandemic days, I went through so many emotions but I also made a lot of things. I seized the opportunity to stay home, read more than ever, get creative with my art supplies, and exercise. I’m actually looking forward to winter and making more things.

Nobody thought we would still be dealing with this 200+ days later but here we are. Each day you have an opportunity to do something nice for someone, be kind to yourself, or find inspiration around you. We will get through this together.

Please stay home when you can, be safe, and wear a mask!

Day 205: Jacket Season, She Ready

Yesterday was a busy one! We ended up staying at the cottage Sunday night, working there Monday AM, then driving back mid-day to make it back by 2pm. Sean and I shared the driving as we both took calls on the way. I was going non-stop from first thing in the AM until about 6pm.

April and I planned to take some photos before stopping by a pizza popup. I don’t think I’m gonna go to any restaurants for a while. We waited outside for pizza for too long and being around people gives me anxiety.

This dress was handed down to me from April and it’s so great, an old one from Pink Tartan. The jacket and boots are old too. I feel like I only have a couple of weeks to wear all my mid-season jackets before it gets too cold. I love jacket season, get ready for a different one each day! ?

I have a feeling this week is going to be long and busy. I’m already looking forward to being back up at the cottage this weekend to recharge my batteries.

Day 204: Run For It

Today I was feeling a bit sluggish but I still went out and did 5km in Amy’s Run For The Cure challenge. It was so nice to run in the woods. Hoping to keep on track with my running this week. Planning to do 70km this month, did 10km this weekend!

Short post today. Need to recharge my batteries!

Day 203: I Want to Go To Paris Too

Today when I was running I paused my Nike Running app and it didn’t record my whole run. I hate it when this happens! I am really interested in getting an Apple watch so I don’t need to take my phone on runs. I did 5km thinking I had a challenge for the day but lucky for me, it’s actually tomorrow.

Made a delicious soup today with curry, carrot, and sweet potato. Once it starts getting a bit cooler I love using our Instant Pot to make soup. I rarely follow a recipe and usually use what we have around in the kitchen. This one turned out SO GOOD. I added jalapeno & goat cheese to serve.


Sean and I started watching an Italian horror movie on Netflix in the afternoon. He fell asleep and I switched to Emily in Paris. Safe to say, he was a little confused when he woke up haha. We managed to get through 9/10 episodes. It’s pretty cheese but tbh, it was just what I was looking for.

Day 202: City to Country

Had a great meeting in the morning and then picked up some groceries from Pusateri’s for the weekend. I am so in love with this jumpsuit from Zara Kids. I saw it on a friend’s daughter for the first day of school then ordered it for myself! haha

Sean and I left for the cottage around 2 and got there just after 4pm. We were gonna go to the 400 Market but it’s not open on Friday anymore. Another time!

I was so happy to be back in the woods for a relaxing weekend. Hoping to run 10km this weekend. I really like running in Muskoka more than in the city, less people!

Day 201: Dinner Date – Kibo Secret Garden

I had an incredible dinner at Kibo’s Sushi’s newest location, Kibo Secret Garden, an intimate, high-end omakase and sushi house in Yorkville. They have 23 locations in the GTA! Kibo Market in the Junction Triangle (near our place) is definitely a local favourite.

I was excited to hang out with Natalie and attend my first dinner event in a LONG TIME. We wore masks and were socially distanced from other diners & staff. We sat at the omakase bar and had a great view of the dinner served by Chef Jin, with barriers between us and other guests.

Omakase is a Japanese phrase meaning ‘I leave it up to you’ that describes the traditional Japanese dining style where the culinary experience is left in the hands of the chef. We also enjoyed their selection of Japanese sake and beer. ?

Dinner Details

The menu highlights the highest-quality fish, seafood, and premium-grade meats. Bo Seo, CEO & Founder, takes pride in only serving fish within 24 hours of its catch.

We had the 20-course dinner omakase, starting with Kobacka Soup (sweet pumpkin & rice), Hirame nigiri (Japan), Kurodai (black seabream, Turkey), Kanpachi Nigiri (Japan), Madai Nigiri (red snapper, Japan).

Next, we had a round of sashimi with king salmon, fluke, bluefin tuna, yellowtail, mackerel, and amberjack. Honestly, it was so good.

Other items on our menu included bluefin tuna belly, ika (squid), oyster, Wagyu Beef, lobster, prawn, black cod, and sea eel from Japan. I haven’t had much sushi the past few months and everything was an absolute treat. The presentation was also incredible. I reckon it was the fanciest sushi dinner I’ve ever had.

Everything from the location to the design, to the menu has been thoughtfully chosen to create a luxury sushi dining experience. I can’t wait to welcome people in!” 

Simeon Papailias, Kibo Secret Garden co-founder & commercial broker

Thank you Kibo Sushi House team for hosting and sending us off with a cute mask and a few goodies. I look forward to bringing Sean next time, he was a little bummed to miss it!

Kibo Secret Garden is officially open to the public at 154 Cumberland St (upper level). Reservations can be made online, by phone at 416-519-4580, or by email at [email protected]

Thanks to Stelth Ng (Triple Pointe Media) for the photos!

Day 200: Pandemic 2020

Wow, 200 days, here we are. What a time to be alive.

I met up with Blair for coffee and we both wore our jumpsuits from Zara Kids. We sat outside, distanced on Jimmy’s patio and it was cute to see how people smiled at our outfits. Gotta appreciate the small joys these days!

I came back home after our date to make a 1pm meeting. I don’t know exactly if it was the news, the weather, or just life, but I felt totally tired in the afternoon.

Sean and I finished Ratched on Netflix and then I remembered tomorrow is Halloween. I was ready for bed at 6pm, then had a burst of energy around 9pm when I put on some spooky tunes and danced around the kitchen.

I’m excited about Halloween this year, I love dressing up. Halloween is a spirit, a feeling, and if you’ve got it, go ahead and let it out. I’ve been wearing ‘costumes‘ for the last few weeks and things are about to get a little more creative.

I’m tempted to go out dressed as a witch for a bunch of days in October. Zombie? Why the hell not!?

Day 199: Remember Precedented Times?

What would you do differently if you could go back the way things were before? How can you make those changes in your life now? This is the world we are living in and only you can make the life you’ve always wanted. It’s up to you to find joy each day, to do something kind, to see the good in people.

Tomorrow is day 200, I am so glad I’ve been keeping this diary so I can go back one day and read about how I survived the 2020 Pandemic. Writing that is so out of this world. Remember Day 1, Social Distancing? Some days it’s like we’re living in a movie, a really long one and everyone is playing a role in how it ends.

Cases are going up and things are not looking good. I thought we might go back to Stage 2 when the Premiere gave his address today.


In other news, today I had Zoom with Facebook Canada to learn about some new features coming to the platform for Creators.

Day 198: Love Yourself First

Spent the morning with calls and meetings then went to the 1188 office to work for a bit. I cleaned out my desk there a few weeks ago to de-personalize it, the desks work more like co-working now. People aren’t really coming into the office much these days but if someone needs to for production or a meeting, there’s space.

It was so nice and warm out once 3pm hit I had to get outside. I think it’s the last summer0like day we’re gonna have…for a while.

Stopped into Visit Zane for a little hangout, Zane is one of my oldest friends in the city. We’re both from Cambridge and used to hang out in high school! Next, I had a margarita in the sun on the Squirly”s patio, read my book a bit, and caught up with an old friend in New Zealand over DM.

Forgot I had this great shirt from LX Factory in Lisbon, it says “The love of my life is myself.” You gotta LOVE YOURSELF before you can truly love anyone else. Y’know?!

The weather was perfect so I decided to walk back to the house in the Junction Triangle. It was lovely but my feet were not a fan, walking 7km in platform Converse is not recommended.

Spotted some Briony street art along the way!

Day 196: Soak Up That Sunshine

We had such a relaxing day today! I spend about 3hr sitting outside with dad reading my book. The weather was perfect. Hard to believe it’s the end of September!

Took Sean out for a couple rips on the wakeboard. We’re planning to take the boat and dock out tomorrow.

Made a nice bbq for dinner and called it a night after Sean did an epic fireworks show.

In the morning dad and I went for a huge 7.5km walk in the woods and it was so great.

Day 195: Find Me In The Woods

Drove up to the cottage last night and got in just before the sun went down. Woke up and went for a nice run in the woods today. The trees have all started changing and it was so beautiful. It feels good to be back running again!

Dad & his wife arrived just after lunch. I made black bean brownies and sweet potato soup before they got in. We went into town for a little tour and to pick up some supplies. I’m so glad to have them here! Looking forward to a relaxing weekend.

Day 194: The World is Changing and So Are We

Another day, another costume! Today I wore one of my fav recent purchases (from an Instagram ad!), love this dress. The scrunchie in my hand is one I made. This weekend at the cottage I’m planning to whip up a few more for friends made from recycled materials.

Really looking forward to our weekend in the woods and spending some quality time with my dad.

Mask is from my friend Considerate Goods, use code CASIE15% for a discount!

Day 193: A Mask & Glasses Makes It a Costume

Have been calling my outfits costumes lately and made an IG highlight with my favs. [See here!] If I’m wearing a mask and glasses, it just feels more like a costume than an outfit.

I’ve been considering getting spookier and more into costume dressing for the month of October. Why not right? Halloween and everything look different so we gotta have fun where we can.

This weakened we’re heading up to the cottage and my dad is coming to visit with his wife. I’m so excited to see him! It’s been over 6 months, since my road trip to South Western Ontario in February.

Can’t wait!

Day 192: Follow the Sunshine

Did a 30 min guided run today with the Nike Running Club app. Pretty sure my legs will be sore! I love this app so much, the guided runs connect with Apple Music and the playlist today was so good. I’m not going to make my 70Km Monthly challenge but I’m happy to be back into my groove of at least doing 1km/day. There’s always next month!

Spent most of the day working at home on a couple different projects. It feels SO GOOD to be back working. I loved the creative-COVID break but I also really enjoy being part of a team and contributing to something bigger than me.

Went for a bike ride to meet Michelle after work and it was so nice out. Stopped at a bar on Dundas west and grabbed one of these cutie-cute little strawberry vodka sodas from Ace Hill. Love supporting local!

Day 191: Get Back to It

Went for a run today for the first time in a couple of weeks and smashed my record for fastest mile yet. Once I started running, I just wanted to keep going. I love getting out first thing in the morning before the day really starts to clear my head and get some fresh air. There’s a couple of huge sunflowers near our place and I love saying hi to them. ?

Yesterday I made this super cute, spicy, Mediterranean-inspired salad. It’s the best one I’ve made yet! I used using heart-shaped, rainbow pasta I found randomly at Winners, mixed with couscous, peppers, tomato, spinach, tomato, EVOO, and PC Harissa spice. I wanted a low-carb pasta salad and would 100% make this one again.


Some friends had me over for soup and challah after work, it was so nice. Got home around 8pm and went to bed early.

Here’s hoping tomorrow is a good day!

Day 190: Hiding Out At Home

I can’t remember the last time we were home for the weekend as a family. I got groceries in the morning and did some food prep in the afternoon. It kinda felt like things were normal. Emily is back at school and making her own lunches this year. ?

Last night we had one of Sean’s oldest friends and his GF over for dinner with her daughter. Em is old enough to take on babysitting duties and we had so many laughs while the kids played upstairs.

Today we’ve been watching Ratched on Netflix and it’s so good. I love the styling, Sharon Stone’s looks are so good.

I don’t have much planned this week aside from work but I hope it’s nice out.

Please stay safe and WEAR YOUR MASK.

Day 189: Lady Gang Park Picnic

Met up with some of my fav media ladies in the west end for a little park hang. It was so nice out! Natalie arranged to have catering from Marben, we had a couple of their new boxes filled with all kinds of picnic snacks.

It was so great to see everyone (distanced, obvs) and chat over wine in the sun. I’m not ready for summer to be over. Luckily, it looks like next week will have some hot days!

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it was like a day in a park ??‍♀️

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Day 188: New Coat & Hilary MacMillan Fall 2020

Yesterday I went to the fall 2020 preview for Hilary MacMillan in the east end. It was my first time at the studio but definitely not my first interaction with the brand. I’ve been a fan of her looks for years after attending her shows at Toronto Fashion Week. Hilary is also part of the gang I’ve been going to New Orleans with for the last couple of years, love her!

Last year I ordered one of her varsity jackets that says ‘Bad Girls Club’ on the back with my name embroidered over the heart. MacMillan’s ‘EQUAL PAY’ varsity jackets in black and grey are donating 100% of the proceeds in perpetuity to ‘Black Women in Motion’ here in Canada to continue the fight for racial equity.

I was really excited for the preview to see humans I’ve not seen in ages and of course to see the new items. It was my first media event since being back in the city and each person had an individual appointment, they checked temperatures at entry, and masks were required.

Hilary MacMillan Fall 2020 is a mix of rich colours and elevated textures all inspired by the 70’s. I took the opportunity to try on a bunch of items and am 100% obsessed with the rich cognac, vegan leather, and long coats.

The Hilary MacMillan Capsules include the (biodegradable, 100% cupro, vegetable-dyed) SUSTAINABLE BLOUSE collection and the (custom embroidery) VARSITY JACKET collection, both of which will continue to be a part of the brand’s DNA moving forward.

I picked one item to take home and it is this INCREDIBLE faux fur floor-length jacket. It’s so warm, soft, and luxe. THANK YOU HILARY & TEAM!

Day 187: Toronto Hippie Market!

I had the best day! After work, I went to the Hilary MacMillian Fall 2020 preview, more on that tomorrow. Earlier this week I posted a giveaway on IG for $100 to spend at the Hippie Market vintage popup, in exchange, I got some money to spend and shared it with Michelle. I met up with my winner and we all had a great time!

The guys with us here run King Kobra Vintage and the one in the grey w/ bolo tie tattooed me once. ?

Miche got an AMAZING silk studded jacket.

I’m pretty sure that was the last one for the year but if there’s another one I will let you know. I saw a few people I hadn’t seen in ages and got a couple of incredible items. I scored a pair of suede Stuart Wiseman, over the knee boots, for $80 and they retail for almost $700!

Thank you Kealan from 69 Vintage for the invite, follow @hippiemarketlife for updates.

We had SUCH A GREAT TIME.

Day 186: Mellow Yellow

Today was a good day! I Spent the afternoon in the office then came home and spent the night hanging out at home. It was beautiful out today. Love these fall temps where you can layer but don’t need a warm jacket.

I ordered a couple of jumpsuits from Zara Kids and I’m so happy they both fit perfectly. Loves it!

Day 185: Mum’s Birthday!

Today was a great day! Had so much fun at home for mum’s birthday. Jenie and I drove to the house in the afternoon and hung out with her and Steve, ate snacks, got takeout, and had cake. My sister’s childhood bff also came over and it was like we never missed a beat. Laughed so hard, it was brilliant!

I love mum so much! She’s smart, funny, stylish, and the biggest inspiration in my life. She’s always there with wise words when I need them and I am so grateful for her love. HI MUM LOVE YOU, THANK YOU. ?

One of our fav things to do is go to Winners and look for treasures. I found this amazing merino wool sweater from Zara and my sister got one to match. It was a steal! Jenie found the yellow sweater she was wearing and got it for mum. Now we all match!

I dressed up for the day in my fav bodysuit, Pretty Denim (designed by my friend Tahnee), and loafers from Everlane. My mask was handmade in Toronto by my other friend Considerate Goods. I almost forgot how much I love wearing a full outfit, really sets the tone for your day!

Day 184: TIFF Portrait Studio

For the past 10 years of my life, early September has always been about TIFF. From working at Much/MTV, to the early blogger hay days (ayooooo!), media events, screenings, so much fun. I was also in a documentary about the festival that’s now on Amazon in the US/UK. TIFF has been a huge part of my life and something I always look forward to.

Yes, this year is different but watching from home is pretty great too. No shoes, comfy clothes, and you can eat/drink/do whatever you want!

We watched Concrete Cowboy starring Idris Elba and Caleb McLaughlin from Stranger Things. It was good, the story, the music, real people. I loved the cinematography and Shazammed a few songs. Found out today that TIFF is offering a free digital screening of this film to 500 essential workers in TO. ??


Thank you Nespresso for the digital tickets, goodies, and snacks. Nespresso is a long-standing supporter of film/arts and Official Coffee Sponsor of the Toronto International Film Festival®. If you’re in Ontario, they have a contest rn where 30 people will win a machine, pods, AND A FREE PASS to Bell Digital Cinema. I wish I had a pass! If you win, please enjoy. Pre-COVID, I’d typically ask you to invite me over when you win!

? This VIP PORTRAIT STUDIO was so exclusive, I was the only one invited! ????

P.S. How great is this dress? It was in my donate pile but I decided to bleach it at the start of Covid and now I love it so much!