I think most of you will agree with me when I say that there is nothing better in the summer than an icy cold cocktail shared with good friends.  I make a mean sangria, but decided it was time to expand my bartending skills when I came across this recipe.  I was thrilled with the results, and with the addition of fresh raspberries, it seems almost healthy to me… almost.

I decided after lunch on Sunday that I was really craving the company of my family, and the only way to remedy the feeling was to invite them over for dinner that night.  I feel that I’ve really streamlined my impromptu hostess skills, and no longer does it stress me out to have guests pop over last minute.  I have a formula of making sure there is a good food, relaxing music and delicious wine for guests to feast on while dinner is cooking.  I also never think twice about dressing the table up…how else are you going to use those fancy charger plates.

 

Whether it’s a night out with the girls, date night with my man or Sunday brunch with the fam, nothing brightens my mood more than sporting sparkly sequins.  I found this little number at local Calgary boutique, and it has made several appearances this summer.  Dressed down with a blazer or dressed up with shimmery jewelry, one thing is for sure, the sequins say it all.

 Rebecca Taylor Dress, Artizia Blazer, Brian Atwood Pumps, Chanel Handbag, Tiffany Earrings, Hermes Watch, Leah Alexander Bracelets

To me there is nothing like opening the mailbox and finding that coveted parcel that’s neither bill nor advertisement, but a nearly extinct category known as snail mail.  I get a ridiculous amount of joy in receiving mail from this category, and I try my best to impart this feeling on my nearest and dearest.  So when I heard that one of my closest of friends had gotten engaged, I just knew a parcel had to be sent her way.

While on vacation in California I had the chance to pop in to Mood Fabrics and stock up on piles of fabulous florals, animal and graphic prints.  There are three fabrics in particular that are begging to be sewn into beautiful blouses.  I have a sleeveless design in mind, and already imagine wearing it tucked into a skirt or over top of skinny jeans and heels.  The pattern has been drafted, fabric has been cut and it’s officially on to sewing this little number.   Stay tuned for the final product and to see which fabric wins out.

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