Starting Fresh

Given the arrival of 2013 and in the spirit of creating resolutions, I have decided to focus on my goal of falling back in love with Blogging. When I initially began blogging I was intimidated, concerned with perfection, and it quickly felt like a chore.... I continue daily blog reading behind the scenes and find myself always learning about so many wonderful products, companies, and design inspiration. It almost seems greedy to gain such insightful information and provide none of my own experiences in return.

I'm back with a new style of blogging; complete with less fuss, pressure or routine.

Every so often I am asked about my "hobbies" - which don't stray far from my career:

• Travel & Photography: exploring diverse lifestyles, landscapes, and food - with a camera in hand
• Outdoor Exploration: Spending time at the cottage, outdoor sports, and wandering
• And of Course... Antique/Vintage Sourcing - searching for one-of-a-kind furniture and decor

Luckily for me (and the rest of the design obsessed) - Online "Garage Sales" like Craigslist and Kijiji fuel my addiction for fairly priced, unique finds. I've also stumbled upon a great local (Toronto) blog called Take This Sofa that scours the sites for weekly finds and of course Bijou and Boheme who always seems to score the most fabulous treasures for her home or clients.

Recently I've noticed Habitat for Humanity on board with some great pieces:

( Find detailed information for these items HERE )

Score fun, vibrant, and versatile pieces like these.... 

Diamond Veneer Round Dining Table | Coffee Table 

Originally from Elte - Some veneer damage / character but could be repaired

$65 or $125

Classic Cobalt Blue Armchair | Sofa

Promptly remove armrest covers and or paint frame - electric!

$175 or $195

Mad Men-esque Emerald Cocktail Chair

$95

Carved Solid Wood Cabinet

Great for storage and shallow depth - would likely paint

$295

7' Contemporary Sofa

Clean lines - would replace accent pillows 

(Matching love seat also in store)

$175 

Abandoned Solid Wood Desk for Adoption

Looking for a good home, new hardware and appreciation for sweet drawer liners

$70

Handsome Woven Armoire

Inquire to store for details

*All Photos via

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Also announcing the First Toronto ReStore DIY Upcycle Challenge

From January 21 - February 8, 2013

• Visit a Toronto Restore location and purchase an item in need of love
• Take a "before" picture
• Work your magic
• Upload your before and "after" picture to their Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/HabitatforHumanityToronto

1. Each entry will automatically be entered to win a CIL Paint Package
2. Top 5 Finalists will win National Home Show Tickets
3. Final winner prize to be determined; includes bragging rights

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I'll leave you with photos from my personal experience volunteering for Habitat for Humanity - it was a great week filled with inspiration, education, and enlightenment!

The only photo I captured of myself, adorned with a hard hat & plaid shirt