Tis The Season...

Finished product 

...To be busy as can be! I have been so swamped over the last week getting ready for Christmas and travelling east to visit my parents in New Brunswick that I've had absolutely no time to blog. I don't see the hustle and bustle settling down anytime soon either, so I'm officially putting all blogging on hold until I return to Vancouver on the 29th. You understand, right?

I've been keeping busy with the usual suspects; baking gingerbread cookies, decorating Christmas trees, buying last minute gifts and spending way too much time in airports due to delayed flights and nasty weather. (It's the most wonderful time of the year...?? For sure.).

Hope you all have a lovely holiday season!

Making gingerbread cookies with my friend Julie

Decorating my apartment 

Pretty tree ornaments 

Mom putting the finishing touch on the tree

My pops

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Running Wilde; Running Out of Steam

Didn't you people learn anything from Arrested Development? You need to give these comedies a chance. Running Wilde is the funniest show on TV right now and it's about to get cancelled. Scratch that, it has been cancelled. Fox has announced that the remaining 5 episodes have been pulled, never to see the light of day.

It worries me that a show like Skating With the Stars will bring in more viewers than a hilarious show like Running Wilde (although let's be honest, Skating With the Stars is likely to be the most unintentionally hilarious show of 2011). Sometimes I picture the meeting at Fox when Skating With the Stars was first pitched... what was the immediate response around the table? Was everyone on board straight away, or did it take some convincing? In any event, I digress...

For those of you who haven't watched (which I'm guessing is all of you?) Running Wilde stars Will Arnett, Keri Russell and David Cross amongst numerous other familiar faces. It's a comedy about a wealthy oil heir (Arnett) and his childhood love, who just so happens to be a tree hugger (Russell). You can only imagine the hilarity that follows.

I can't wait for three years from now when people actually watch the 1st season of Running Wilde, and then petition for the movie. You guys know that doesn't really work, right? Like I said... have we learned nothing from Arrested Development?

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Happy Friday

It's Friday and that means it's time to plan your weekend. Actually by this point you should have already had it planned, but who am I to judge?

My friends are going to kill me for blogging about London Pub, because some of them are worried if word gets out about how great this place is, we'll be stuck waiting in lines all night next time we go. Not to mention the inevitable cover charges which will be implemented, and then it snowballs and we've got a Roxy situation on our hands.

I'm sorry friends, I need to call it like I see it, and I see it like this; I love London Pub. 

I have to admit, I've never actually had the food there, so I can't offer any opinions on that, but I have been there two weekends in a row now. The crowd, music and drinks are going to keep me coming back for more. Did I mention there's no cover charge?

It's located at East Georgia & Main, and has all of the charm you would expect from a place called London Pub. Just don't tell too many people about it, we need to keep this place (somewhat) to ourselves.

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Zeha Berlin

Shoe lovers across Vancouver know that the spot to go for the best footwear in the city is Gravity Pope on 4th ave. They have the most amazing flats, sneakers and of course, leather boots. A quality pair of leather boots is an investment; if cared for properly, you'll wear them for decades to come. With the chilly weather looming, it's time to invest.

Founded in in 1897, Zeha Berlin have been crafting leather shoes for over 100 years. They use premium leathers and incorporate a classic style. At the moment, I am seriously coveting these Hisco Burlywood Military Boots, and good news; they're on SALE at Gravity Pope (until December 12th). Originally priced at $665, you can now snatch them up for only $565.25. 

They say not to judge someone until you've walked a mile in their shoes, but if that someone is wearing these boots, judgement (aka: jealousy) can't be helped. Available in various colour options, these boots are made for walkin'. 

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It's Starting to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

It's officially holiday shopping season, and incase any of you were looking to buy yours truly something special (hah!) I have three great gifts that any lady would love to have under her tree.

Blasted Church Wine
I've mentioned before how much I adore this BC vino. Blasted Church grows their grapes in the celebrated Okanagan, and has a fresh new attitude towards the sometimes snobby wine industry. I am currently addicted to the 2008 Pinot Noir and the Gewurztraminer. Blasted Church wines retail from around $15 to $25 per bottle.

Cashmere Gloves
Rumour has it we're in for a very chilly winter here in Vancouver. I'm from the east coast, so I'm used to the colder climate. As an experienced winterista, I can say first hand that the cold isn't all bad. My must have for those freezing days are cashmere gloves. They can be snatched up at lots of stores around the city. I've seen them at Fine Finds, Club Monaco and of course, on Shop Bop. Prices range from $50 to $100, and seriously, what girl doesn't love cashmere?

Arrested Development
Just because our favourite TV show was canceled years ago, doesn't mean you can't watch it all day, every day. Take it from me; it's still on my regular TV rotation. The best part about the show being ancient is that the DVD's are dirt cheap. I own all three seasons and don't think I paid more than $20 for each set.

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I Left My Heart in Tokyo

I've mentioned my love for the Vancouver food cart scene before, and after a recent visit to Kimono Koi Crepes, that feeling is stronger than ever.

Located at the corner of Georgia and Granville street, this pink cart is serving up the most delicious crepes in town. I indulged with the Banana Brownie crepe, which is stuffed with a huge chunk of chocolate brownie, some bananas, custard, chocolate sauce, Nutella and whipped cream. Very tasty!

If sweets are not your thing, they have a list of savoury crepes too, including a divine looking ham and cheese option.

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Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy = Brilliant

Thank God. Seriously. How annoying was Kanye West getting? For the last few years, Kanye's self righteous attitude has been beyond irritating, and after not producing results, I was ready to forget about him all together. His publicity stunts with Taylor Swift, his failed Louis Vuitton sneaker line and his all around arrogance was a huge turn off for me.

He's still got that famous attitude problem, but at least he's putting out some of the best music I've heard this year. I'm not alone in that sentiment either, Pitchfork gave his new album a 10 out of 10 rating (which almost never happens), and Rolling Stone a 5 out of 5.

As I'm sure you've already heard, Kanye directed a 35 minute video to go along with the new album called Runaway, featuring clips from every song. I think the video is as epic as the album.

I'd love to say I have a favourite song on My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, but I think it's too soon commit. What I will say is that even for the non-hiphop lovers out there, you need to listen to this album at least twice. It's too good to miss out on.

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Chronic Taco

After hearing it described as "the Subway of tacos" I was iffy to check out Chronic Taco. Not that I don't like Subway, but mostly because when I picture meeting up with my friends for a late dinner on Friday night, I don't picture a fast food spot.

I'm so glad we decided to check this place out. Though the assembly line tacos do remind me of Subway, the atmosphere was on another level. Did I mention Chronic Taco is licensed? Say goodbye to flat fountain pop and hello to a cold Corona. (The perfect beverage to wash down your spicy taco).

I tried a few different tacos, and have to say that my favourite is definitely the beer battered fish taco. Just take a look at these pictures and try to tell me you're not suddenly in the mood for Mexican tonight! The beauty of Chronic Tacos is the price. How do you say "dirt cheap" in Spanish? 

We checked out the Broadway and Cambie store, but there will be one at 4th and Burrard opening later this year.

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H&M Lanvin: Sold Out in Vancouver

Well that was fast. As expected the Lanvin for H&M collection that debut Saturday morning was officially sold out and for sale on Craigslist in Vancouver within hours. I heard a rumour that they're not getting anymore in either. Crossing my fingers that someone returns that lovely red/pink ruffle dress.

I popped in the store sometime around 1:30 in the afternoon and there was no sign of Lanvin anywhere. I guess the early bird really does catch the worm, or in this case, the pretty dresses.

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40% Off EVERYTHING at The Gap Today!

For one day only, recieved 40% off of everything (including sale items) at the Gap today!

Mob scene at Pacific Centre

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Holiday Shopping

I was having some internet issues and didn't get a chance to blog much over the last few days, but fear not; my internet is back and I have lots to talk about.

As if last night's snow fall wasn't enough to remind us the holidays are quickly approaching, many boutiques around Yaletown had special Christmas shopping events this past week including Boudoir, Noir Lash Lounge, Beauty Mark, The Cross and more. The best part about shopping events are the discounts (and the munchies)!

Thursday night I hit up 100 Days for dinner with a girlfriend. If you haven't been yet, time is running out. As I'm sure you all know, it's the new restaurant/lounge at the Opus Hotel that will only be in operation for 100 days. We shared the Nacho Fondue, Truffle Parm Fries and Fish Tacos (obviously throwing caution to the wind in the calorie counting department). As you can imagine, it was all mouthwatering and delicious.

Then we headed over to Boudoir to take advantage of their 30% off special for the evening. I love Boudoir! I walked away with this amazing MinkPink sweater (in charcoal, not cream). The lovely ladies of Boudoir also hooked me up with a gift card through a Twitter contest, which made the already 30% off, even more appealing. To top it all off, they had fantastic swag bags. Too many goodies to mention them all, but think; Stripped, Blo, Noir Lash Lounge, Skoah and Bombay Brow Bar.

Next stop is every girly girl's dream shop; Beauty Mark. Also getting into the holiday spirit, their store was full of yummy chocolate treats plus 15% off the entire store. I know many fashionistas are strongly opposed to tights in lieu of pants, but I must admit, I'm guilty. In order to pull off my favourite fashion faux pas this winter, I need something a bit more heavy duty. Have you heard of Plush tights? I just discovered the joys of these fabulous fleece lined tights. I picked up a pair of the Stirrup Fleece-lined Tights and am currently having a love affair with them. Too comfortable for words.

Needless to say, even with the debut of Lanvin for H&M today, my shopping binges must be put on hold for a while. Christmas is just around the corner and so far I've only bought gifts for myself. (This is a true story; I promised myself I wouldn't wear the tights until Christmas morning). My biggest indulgence this weekend will be the free McDonald's coffee (as if I haven't talked about it enough already). The location at the library has a tent set up outside. You don't even need to go inside to get your java fix!

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Top 3 Songs of the Day: S Edition

Dreary weather we're having here in Vancouver today. Dreary, rainy, cold... what more can I say? It's awful out there. If your walk to work was as nasty as mine (even with the free McDonald's coffee pit stop) then you need something wonderful to listen to.

My three favourite songs this morning are all brought to you by the letter S. (Very Sesame Street of me, I know.)

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Protect Your Barbour Jacket; Get It Waxed at Lark!

One of my favourite Main St. boutiques has got to be Lark, and I know I'm not alone in that sentiment. They always carry exclusive pieces that would make any fashionista swoon. Case in point, the Barbour jacket!

For those of you who already own a precious Barbour, you know that for the utmost protection year after year from the cruel winter cold you need to take care of it, and that starts with an annual waxing. Stop by Lark this Sunday, November 21, for a $16 wax. I suggest booking an appointment as the spots fill up quickly. (Last weekend's event filled up completely!)

To book an appointment shoot Lark an email at info@lark.me or give them a call at 604.879.5275.

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The Buzz Cafe

In Vancouver there's a Starbucks on every corner, and season after season the hottest accessory is toting around their famous paper cup. I'm all for trends, but this causes coffee tunnel vision. There really are other (and better) coffee shops out there.

One of my downtown favourites is The Buzz Cafe, which also houses Harrison Galleries. This shop is unique because not only do they serve fantastic java and paninis, but it's also an art gallery. With couches spread out among the art, it's the perfect spot to cozy up with a book, a latte and let a rainy Sunday afternoon fly by. The shop is located at Smithe and Homer and they have a pumpkin spice latte that rivals anything else you've tried in this city.

So next time you're looking for a java fix, skip Starbucks and try something new. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by what the local shops have to offer!

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Love These Tunes

Are you starting to think you've heard every song on your iPod at least 1,000 times? Are your ears getting bored of listening the same songs over and over?

This is pretty common, and if you don't watch yourself, you'll soon be downloading something awful like "Like a G6" just for variety.

Here are three great songs that I am loving right now. Feel free to comment with some of your favourites, and let's all make a vow to never, ever torture ourselves with bad music ever again.

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Guu is Guud

I'm almost embarrassed to admit that I had never been to Guu before this past weekend. It has got to be Vancouver's premier Japanese restaurant. A must try for foodies across the city.

If you've ever been, then you know that not only is the food amazing, but the atmosphere is one of the best parts about Guu. The staff is yelling, laughing and essentially putting on a show for their guests. It's fast paced casual dining and I love it.

Salmon-Carpaccio

They have several locations across the city, and even one in Toronto. We went to the Robson St. location which is dubbed "Guu with Garlic". A few of our dishes were served with these amazing crispy garlic chips that added the perfect flavour to an already phenomenal culinary experience.

One can get pretty thirsty eating Japanese food all night with its trademark salty taste, and Guu has just the thing; the Guud Caesar! Their trick? Adding a splash of orange juice. It was one of the best Caesars I've ever had, and I fancy myself quite the Caesar connoisseur. (The result of one too many Sunday brunches with some "thirsty" girlfriends).

If you've been holding out on Guu, there's no better time than the present to check them out. And remeber, it's called the present for a reason. Put Guu on your Christmas list because this is one gift you will love!

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Conan is Back!

They say everything happens for a reason and that couldn't be more true for Conan O'Brien.

A year ago the Conan drama was non-stop with him leaving his 16 year gig as the host of Late Night with Conan O'Brien to replace talk show veteran Jay Leno on The Tonight Show. This was the biggest deal in late night talk shows to happen in many years, and everyone was watching; that is, until they weren't. The debut of The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien brought in huge numbers, but for one reason or another the viewers didn't stick, and within months NBC decided it was time for another shake up. Basically their plan was to give Leno back the time slot, and shift Conan to the less popular 12:05 spot. Conan said no chance, packed up his crew and said goodbye to NBC. (But not without getting one pretty sweet severance package to the tune of $45 million).

All's well that ends well and Conan's new show on TBS (or the Comedy Network in Canada) proves that. It premiered on Monday night, and if I do say so myself, Conan is funnier than ever. He didn't dance around the controversy, opening the show with blatant digs to his old bosses. The jokes were funny, Conan seemed rejuvenated and his duet with Jack White at the end of the show was fantastic! Who knew?!

Conan is back to his roots with his old side kick, Andy Richter, joining in on the fun. The show runs from Monday to Thursday and is definitely not to be missed.

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I Will Always Love You

Very happy to hear the rumours about Bobby and Whitney rekindling their romance have turned out to be false. It did, however, bring back memories of our girl, back in her prime. Still one of my favorite movies of all time.

Best. Kiss. Ever.

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What's Old is New Again

Fashion designers are always pushing the envelope and creating new trends for consumers to indulge in each season. Year after year we're presented with new jackets, purses, boots and jewelry to blow our budget on, forgetting that the trendiest thing in this economy is finding designer goods, with wallet friendly prices. Many fashion lovers argue that discounted clothes lack the quality of their high end counterparts and I tend to agree. Well constructed clothes last a lifetime.

The beauty of of something lasting a lifetime is that you don't have to be its first owner to reap the benefits. That's right, I'm talking about consignment shopping.

My absolute favorite consignment shop is The Closet, in Boston, MA. Every time I'm in the area I stop in and see what deals I can find. The beauty of consignment shopping is that you can sometimes get goodies that are still in season. For example, I bought a pair of Prada sunglasses at The Closet a few years ago that were still full price at Sunglass Hut (which I paid a fraction of). On another visit to The Closet I picked up multiple pairs of premium denim jeans (Paige, 7's and Citizen's) all for about the equivalent of one full priced pair at Holts. If you're ever in Boston, you have got to check them out.

Of course, Boston is a long ways away from Vancouver, I should mention that our beautiful city is full of consignment shops:

Turnabout Clothing has two shops in Vancouver and one in White Rock, 3109 Granville St., 3112 West Broadway St. and 1446 Johnston Road (White Rock).

Front & Company has new and consignment goodies at their 3772 Main St. location.

C'est La Vie has clothes for men and women, open 7 days a week at 3247 Main St.

2 Chicks Consignment is an awesome consignment shop at 3171 W'29th Ave

There are so many more consignment boutiques around the city, so feel free to add your favorites to the comment section. Happy shopping (and saving!).

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Black's Not Back

I have been pleasantly surprised this season by the abolishment of black nail polish. For the last few years black nail polish was dominating the finger tips of fashionistas everywhere, and though we're all guilty of going Goth at some point, let's be honest; this is Avril Lavigne's signature look. Avril Lavigne. When would we ever take fashion tips from a girl who dresses like a 15 year old "Sk8r Boi"? I'll admit, now that she's toting around Brody Jenner (possibly the best accessory she's ever owned) Avril has become more appealing to me, but I digress...

Nail polish trends this fall/winter have been putting a smile on my face. I recently noticed one of my besties wearing the perfect grey polish. I had to ask her where it was from. Expecting OPI or something even more pricey, I was shocked that it was from American Apparel. Love it!

"Mouse" By American Apparel $6

Another color that I'm digging is this khaki-green shade by Essie. I know, I know, it looks a lot like grey in the picture, but trust me, this definitely has a green tint in person. Not to mention, could the name be any cuter?

"Sew Psyched" By Essie

Finally, the one color that I will wear year round is a classic red. My absolute favorite is Lancome's No. 104. I first bought this polish two years ago and keep going back for more. Red, well kept nails look great on everyone. Just remember to keep the nails short when you're going bold. This isn't the early 90's ladies. Scale back.

No. 104 By Lancome

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Lanvin part deux

Well the fashion gods heard my prayers, and today they released a video of the Lanvin for H&M collection. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!

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It's Almost Here...

It's November 1st, and for fashion lovers around the world that means one thing... Lanvin for H&M is JUST around the corner.

22 more sleeps ladies! The collection hits stores on November 23rd, and I can honestly say, for me, this is the most exciting H&M collaboration since Stella McCartney in 2005. Last year's Jimmy Choo collection was pretty good too, but there's just something about Lanvin and his ultra girly clothes that makes me want to cash in those savings bonds and splurge on a new wardrobe. Luckily, since we're talking about H&M, the usual Lanvin price point will be sliced down to something a bit more affordable. Good news for ladies like me who are trying to be smart with money. (Key word; trying.)

Very few shots of the clothes have been leaked, but the few sneak peeks we've had look incredible! These dresses are ideal for the upcoming Christmas party season (I'm particularly fond of the one shoulder black number). And even though some fashionistas think the boyfriend blazer is dead, the Lanvin one pictured below begs to differ.

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Live Shows Galore!

Those of you know who me, know there are few things in this world that I like more than a good concert! Sure, champagne is always a treat, and fashion is a definite weakness, but seeing one of my favorite bands play live, at a cool venue takes the cake.

Wolf Parade at the Vogue Theatre

I happen to have quite a few friends that share this love with me, so it's always easy to stay on top of what bands are coming to Vancouver, and where they're playing. However, even with the help of my friends, some shows still seem to slip through the cracks... but not for much longer.

This website has got to be the most in depth coverage of Vancouver's music scene I've ever seen! I had to share it. There's nothing worse than finding out a really cool band played in your backyard, the day after the show.

Take a peek and let me know which ones you'll be attending!

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Acme Cafe

I know I just wrote about food a couple of days ago, but I can't ignore the amazing lunch I had at Acme Cafe on Monday!

For those of you who haven't heard, it's a new spot in Gastown at 51 W. Hastings. Very small, and diner style, Acme Cafe serves up home made soups, delicious baked treats and a quiche that makes you want to ask for seconds. The quiche comes with the soup of the day and a salad, which were both fantastic. I purposely put one bite of the quiche aside so that after my soup and salad were gone, it would be the very last thing I tasted. Strategic eating; it was that good.

I was eyeing the tables around me to see how their food looked, and I must say, those sandwiches were looking pretty tempting. Just as I was starting to plan my week around tasting their entire menu, my server informed me that they had one gentleman come in four times last week! At least I know I'm not alone in this new found love.

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Fresh | Local | Wild

Kudos to the city of Vancouver and all of the recent gourmet street food carts that have been popping up. Case in point, Fresh, Local, Wild, located on Granville St. at the corner of Robson.

When they say this food rivals your favorite restaurant, they aren't kidding. I had the Hot Smoked Northern Coho Salmon Sandwich, and the Chanterelle Mushroom Poutine (as pictured). Wowsa! As far as the sandwich is concerned, the coleslaw was the cherry on top for me; talk about perfection! The salmon was beyond fresh. (It seriously tasted like it had been swimming in the ocean a mere hours before it entered my tummy.)

Photo Courtesy of Maurice Li 

As a person who was born and raised on the east coast, I know poutine. We have poutine carts on every block, but none of them are smothered in chanterelle mushrooms. I am loving this twist on my old favorite.

Chef Josh Wolfe and Andy Fielding were both hanging out at the cart when I stopped by. These guys are friendly, chatty and above all else, excited about what they're selling.

I was telling a friend about Fresh, Local, Wild and they were immediately concerned about the price. "How expensive is this place?". Surprisingly, not expensive at all. A poutine at Mega-Bites costs $5.99. They make it in the microwave and the fries come out of a deep freeze. A poutine at F.L.W. costs a mere $3!

Do yourself a favor and check this cart out. It's amazing and the only problem with something this good is it means I'll need to increase my gym routine because there's no way I can stay away.

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Whip my Hair

Nine years old. Nine years old! Do you remember what you were doing at nine? I was laying in my bunk-beds, reading the Baby-Sitters Club books. Do you know what Willow Smith is doing at nine? Getting signed by Jay-Z.

Seriously, could the Smith family be any more talented? Papa Will has got to be one of the luckiest people of all time, because not only has he managed to become a super A-list celebrity, but he does so without having to sell his soul to the tabloids. Then he marries the beautiful Jada, and they produce an army of talent, with big brother Jaden staring in the Karate Kid earlier this year.

But back to Willow... listen to these vocals! I want to compare her to other teen queens out there, but that wouldn't be fair; Willow isn't even ten years old, and if you stacked up her talent next to Miley Cyrus... well even Billy Ray would be waving the white flag.

With nearly 4 million views on Youtube in only 3 days, it's safe to say I'm not the only one who can't believe their eyes (or ears). Willow Smith is this generation's Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Beyonce all wrapped into one.

Say hello to the world's next mega star...

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Joe Freshing it!

Fashion lovers were rejoicing over the flagship store opening of Joe Fresh at 540 Granville St. in downtown Vancouver on Saturday. Finally, we no longer have to drive out to Richmond to get our inexpensive fashion fix! (Not to mention the serious lack of sizes out there). If you haven't had a chance to check out the store, it's most definitely worth a visit.

Saturday was the official opening. With the closing down of Granville St., Marianas Trench played to an eager crowd, (some of whom were waiting since 6am for their favorite Canadian rockers to show).

After the concert, the store was shut down for a VIP opening party. I had the pleasure of assisting the PR team with the festivities and can tell you first hand that this party stood out. It wasn't your typical shopping event; this party had models, TV crews and many familiar faces (including Joe himself). The theme may have been affordable fashion, but these party goers were decked out with Louboutins, Gucci bags and some seriously fierce attire.

I don't always enjoy spending my Saturday night working, but trust me when I say this was a labor of love.

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VIFF and the Two Escobars

VIFF means a lot of things for Vancouverites; great films, cool parties and something to do every night of the week for two weeks straight.

Last year I went to the opening gala, but that's where my VIFF experience ended. This year, I was lucky enough to be hooked up with some tickets from Vancouver 24 hours. I took advantage of the passes and on Friday night took a girlfriend to see the documentary everyone had been talking about "The Two Escobars".

To summarize; the doc is about the 1994 world cup soccer game in the USA where star player Andrés Escobar accidentally scored on his own net. Weeks later he was shot to death, presumably by Columbian drug cartels. The story also chronicles the rise and death of Pablo Escobar.

With intimate interviews from the close friends and families of both Escobars, the documentary unfolds the story about a time in Columbia where drug money funded not only the soccer league, but built homes, parks and schools for the poor, when their government couldn't afford to do so.

At the end of the film, director Jeff Zimbalist did a question and answer period, which was a definite highlight for me. His passion for the project beamed as he answered each question casually without a nervous bone in his body.

This movie is too good to miss. They've already shown it twice at VIFF, with a third screening scheduled for Thursday at 3:30 (and possibly a forth being planned, due to popular demand).

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The Social Network

How many of you ran out to see The Social Network over the course of the last week? I certainly did! Best Saturday night ever.

I saw Mark Zuckerberg on the Oprah show earlier last week, where he stated that the movie is purely entertainment, but after watching the film, I'm not so sure it's all as fictional as he would like us to believe. A quick search on Google paints a different image of the "shy" Zuckerberg, with leaked (juicy!) text messages about the Winklevoss twins and interviews where he seemingly talks down to the reporter.

The funny thing is, I think I like this version of Zuckerberg more than his squeaky clean, geeky image he's trying to hard to portray.

If you haven't seen the movie yet, I think it's definitely worth the $12. I really enjoyed the story and couldn't help but day dream about becoming a billionaire myself after watching it (very unlikely). It also brought back memories of when I was first introduced to Facebook, back when you had to have a student email address in order to sign up.

Facebook has literally become our lifeline for communicating with friends, family and even total strangers, with most of us logging on everyday. Social networking is more than just a movie; social networking is our way of life.

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White Space at The Bay

This week has already been nuts! I came down with a cold/some sort of evil throat bug over the weekend and it threw my whole week off. Now that we're at the hump day there's finally a light at the end of the tunnel.

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the new White Space at The Bay in downtown Vancouver.

Think Holt Renfrew meets, well, Holt Renfrew.

The event was great with a surprisingly high turn out. There was a fall fashion presentation by Rebecca Tay from Fashion Magazine, lots of champagne and very tasty food being passed.

In my goody bag there was a Dior primer mascara, which is a new concept for me. I always thought it was a gimmick, but I gave it a whirl this morning and I can honestly say my lashes have never looked longer!

I always say fall is my favorite season and these shopping events are one of the main reasons why. There's a mile long list of stores hosting events over the next couple weeks, including BCBG on Robson tonight. See you there?

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The rumors are true; Arcade Fire is amazing

But surprisingly, not the best show I've seen this week...

When I saw the fall line up of bands hitting Vancouver over the next little bit, I knew I was in for a treat (my savings account, not so much).

As everyone knows, last night the Arcade Fire played in Vancouver. I've been a fan for years and years. It seems like every time I'm in the same town as them, something comes up and I can't make it to the show (I'm still kicking myself over the 2007 show at Radio City Music Hall in NYC while I was living there doing a semester in the city).

Anyway, last night I FINALLY got to see them live. It was great. They played their hit songs, the crowd loved it and the band genuinely seemed so thrilled to be in Vancouver. All in all, a fantastic performance. My only (teeny, tiny) complaint is that the venue was too big. I'd rather the Commodore, but hey, you can't win them all.

Phoenix

Moving on... the best show I've seen in ages (or at least this week); Phoenix on Sunday night. Wow! Almost too much to handle. Phoenix is one of those bands that you absolutely MUST see live. If you're not already a fan, you will be once you see them on stage.

I only started listening to Phoenix a couple months ago, and I'm head over heals in love with them now. I appreciate music that you can fall for after only one listen.

I hadn't planed on seeing Tokyo Police Club at the Commodore this weekend, but... I found tickets on Craigslist for only $20, so I couldn't say no. Quite frankly, I'd pay $20 cover to go to the Commodore even if there wasn't a band playing.

The show is this Saturday, bringing my concert total for the week up to 3. You know what they say right? Too much of a good thing can be... wonderful! (Thank you Mae West)!

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Gossip Girl and Dexter

This is quickly turning into a TV recap blog, but I just can't help myself. It's all too good.

Let’s start with Dexter. First off, all ladies love Dexter. He's so mysterious, attractive and... emotional? His breakdown at the end of the season premier this week seemed pretty out of character for our favorite serial killer, but it was refreshing to see that he is, in fact, human. I still find it weird watching the dynamic with him and his "sister" Deb, who happens to be his wife off screen. I'm a bit worried about the show; where can it go from here? With Rita dead, is Dexter going to be a single father, all while continuing his late night adventures? Watch it Showtime... this is crossing into "unbelievable" territory.

I missed the first two episodes of Gossip Girl this season, but was able to read re-caps online before watching the third episode last night. There's no sense commenting on the plot since it's just the same thing every season. People don't watch Gossip Girl for the storyline anyway, they watch it for the clothes (or at least I do).

I love Tiffany Keys. I really do. I own one in fact, but really? The girls on Gossip Girl are wearing them? I expected much more from these Upper East Siders. Cartier Love Bracelets would have been more believable. Tiffany Keys seem so... two years ago. For a show that prides itself on haute couture and unattainable designer goods, the Tiffany Keys seemed out of place.

Britney’s on Glee tonight. Seriously; best. September. ever.

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Sunday Brunch

Mimosa station

My girlfriends and I try to do Sunday brunch as often as we can. We're always on the search for the next restaurant with the most creative menus, and coolest vibe. So much so that we hadn't even thought of ever cooking breakfast ourselves.

That all changed this weekend when we came together for one of our favorite's birthday.

We had brunch... at HOME!

It was amazing. I mean, the pictures speak for themselves. We had cheese platters, fresh made fruit salad, pastries, a keish that was to die for, chocolate dipped strawberries, and of course, mimosas.

This definitely proved to me that you don't have to go out to the trendiest restaurant in town to have the best time and eat the best food.

Suddenly this morning's toast and apple doesn't seem so appealing.

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Glee

Two great things have happened for me TV-wise this week; the obvious being the season premiers of all the good shows, the second being after having my cable down for almost 2 weeks, it's finally been fixed (more on that later).

Last night was the premier of Glee. I am an admitted "Gleek" so I would have been impressed even without the Empire State of Mind performance. I thought it was good. Charice gives me goose bumps when she sings, but I bet everyone says that.

My only complaint, and I could be totally wrong, but did Lea Michele (AKA Rachel Berry) drop some serious weight over the summer? I thought it was so distracting. Last season she had the perfect body! I just think it's so sad to see another Hollywood starlet shed the pounds, when they looked amazing to start with (I'm talking to you Lindsay Lohan, Misha Barton and Nicole Ritchie).

As for my cable being down, I just switched providers yesterday, so now I'm a Shaw girl. I must say, so far so good. I was with Telus for over a year, and was persuaded by friends who are with Shaw to try them out. I had a few frustrating phonecalls with Telus (lets not get into it) and decided to pull the plug and give Shaw a chance.

I'm counting down the seconds until the season premier of Modern Family tonight, and with Grey's premiering tomorrow this week is only getting better and better!

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Sibling Rivalry

No, no, not like the competition you and your sister have, I'm talking about the wine!

One of my girlfriends has been drinking Sibling Rivalry white for some time now, but last night we decided to have a glass (or two... or three...) of red. I was impressed!

The wine is created by a group of three brothers in Ontario. They describe Sibling Rivalry as "About outcomes. The sum of the parts that make up the blends we produce, and the sum of the partnership known as the Speck Brothers".

Aside from yummy vino, Sibling Rivalry also has really cool branding. Their website is awesome, with a section for you to submit your very own sibling rivalry stories. I read a couple of them and was brought back to my teenage years, when my sister and I would fight over everything. Now that we're both in our mid twenties (she's almost exactly one year younger than me) we've become super close. I think it's safe to say, next time I see her I'm bringing a bottle of Sibling Rivalry and I'm sure that after a couple of glasses, we'll be reminiscing about "the good old days" in no time!

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Ratatat

If you've read much of my blog, you might guess my biggest weakness is shopping, food, or maybe even champagne. All are good guesses, but sadly, you would be wrong. My absolute biggest weakness; Hipsters.

Don't ask me why, I don't know how to explain it. Maybe it has to do with their creativity, since most of them are some sort of musician, writer, or artist. I don't know, and I don't know if I even want to know.

Case in point; Ratatat.

I saw Ratatat at the Commodore last night and it was A-MAZ-ING. It was one of those concerts that makes you want to run home and see what other bands are playing in your city this week. The set was perfect and the crowd was loving every minute of it. I can't even describe the energy in the room while these guys gave the audience their all.

If you didn't make it out last night, tsk tsk. You missed a goody. Luckily Phoenix and the Arcade Fire are making their ways to Vancouver before the month is over, so I guess there's some comfort in that.

Mike Stroud

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