Happy Friday...

Friday, February 28, 2014

Weekend is here and I couldn't be more grateful; tomorrow is March, and I am kind of glad February is over. We had a few projects going on around here that were keeping Ryan busy, and now that those are all wrapped up he will be home a lot more! I have actually planned a little date night for the two of us on Saturday night!!! Him and I are going to have a nice quiet dinner at Culina while his sister Caitlin watches Jet (Yay! Thanks again Caitlin!!!). Afterwards I was thinking we would head to Black Dog, since that is pretty much Ryan's favourite place to have a pint and people watch... I am really looking forward to it!

This week was quiet, Jet has been fighting a cold so we stayed in most days; I have to say I have been going slightly stir crazy. Today I took Jet to the pool which was a nice change of scenery; he loves the water, and the warm pool is relaxing for me! Here are some snippets from one of our afternoons at home...
Sunday is the Oscars.... I have never done anything special to celebrate the Oscars, at the very least I always try to catch the top awards (you know best actor/actress, supporting actor/actress, best director and best picture...the obvious big ones...) I have to admit though my favourite part of it all is the dresses, I am slightly obsessed with the red carpet before the show. I love seeing all the beautiful outfits and stunning ensembles, I also stalk People.com to make sure I see EVERY dress... I know... I am obsessed.... maybe next week I will share some of my favs....

Wishing you all a beautiful weekend!

...xo...CS

Dinner Club: Tavern 1903 at the Alberta Hotel...

Thursday, February 27, 2014

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Last nights dinner club found us girls at one of YEG's newly sought after restaurants Tavern 1903 at the Alberta Hotel.... I think all of us girls would agree we left feeling fully satisfied with the evenings food, drinks and of course conversation!!

The stunning restaurant in the bottom of the Alberta Hotel has been open for under a year, and is really making its mark in Edmonton cuisine; the mere fact that the restaurants is under the same management as Hardware Grill, speaks volumes; the food, the ambiance, the service, all top notch in my eyes and Tavern 1903 is no different (if you have dined at HG than you know what I am talking about and if you haven't I highly recommend you give it a try).

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Previous to visiting Tavern 1903 I had seen some really beautiful pictures of the bar area, and to be honest I was a little disappointed when I arrived and realized we were sitting on the dining side... I mean don't get me wrong the dining side is equally beautiful but more modern and formal feeling. The bar has an old world charm that I was expecting and looking forward to; I suppose I will just have to make another trip sometime soon so I can take in the bar side (I see no problem in that!!).

The evening started with Prosecco and ended with a shared short bread cheesecake parfait as dessert; in between were a selection of wine, shared appetizers, salads, and entrees that were all equally exquisite in design, plating and of course taste!! The appetizers we shared included the K.F.C. (Korean Fried Cauliflower!!) and a Ricotta spread with slices of baguette. I can't say the Ricotta dish was anything overly special but the K.F.C. was definitely something I would go back for time and time again!


Dinner for myself was the Thai Seafood Bowl, and I shared the Beet and Goat Cheese Fritter salad (which I can't find the name of on the online menu). This turned out to be way too much food, and finishing the soup, as tasty as it was, proved that my eyes are definitely bigger than my stomach!

The Thai Seafood Bowl was a little on the spicy side, which I didn't mind at all, and loaded with plenty of seafood! All I have to say about the Beet and Goat Cheese salad is A-MAZING!!! The combination of these two ingredients, along with dates and candied pecans was a perfect balance for my tastebuds; It would probably rank up there as being one of the best salads I have had in a restaurant in a long time!! I would definitely go back and order any one of these dishes again, but to err on the side of less glutenous I would probably pair the K.F.C. with the Beet Salad and call her a day!!

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 As usual the evening was a hit, the only thing missing was our 5th member who couldn't be with us to take part. I can definitely see another trip to the old Tavern 1903 in my future.... especially in the summer when they open up that large patio on the exterior...I can hardly wait!! Winter can seriously get the heck out of here.

...in the meantime I will be dreaming of Beet Salads and Tavern 1903!!

...xo...CS

Loving this Look....

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

This look stopped me in my tracks... I know its not summer, and the weather outside is not promising warmer weather anytime soon, but I just love everything about this outfit. The patterned top with the rolled chino short, the leather sandals and the necklace gives it a dab of glam... the baseball cap tones it all down though.... ahhh I. Love. It. All... I also Can't. Wait. For. Summer... can you tell!!

...xo...CS

Love/ Want/ Need February...

Monday, February 24, 2014




L/W/W/N


It is looking like a cold week ahead, I will be continuing my hibernation indoors. Here are a few items I am Loving, Wanting and Needing this month!

Ryan got me my first pair of moccasins a couple years ago for Christmas, I never used to wear slippers, I must have been waiting for my own pair of Laurentian Chief Moccasins. Now that I have a pair, I don`t think I could live without them. They are warm, cozy, great quality, and the best part made in Canada!! My aunt Penny purchased Jet his first pair a few months ago, they are adorable and one of the sweetest keepsakes we have for Jet!

I have seen these mugs a few places on the web, aren't they sweet?!? Just the perfect mug for a warm Saturday morning coffee with my love!

Jeans!!! I am in dire need of a new NICE pair! I found these online and am seriously considering dropping the $$ to purchase them! I have liked what I have seen from Hudson, and these look like they are right up my alley... in the jean department. It is tough finding something that fits good, and I have to admit I have had pretty good luck with jeans. I might try my luck and order these....what do you think??

If you are in YEG, bundle up and stay warm this week! Have a marvelous week!

....xo...CS

Happy Friday...

Friday, February 21, 2014

How is it Friday again?!? This week, albeit a short one, flew by.... it leaves me sitting here wondering what I did to make it go by so fast?!? Most weeks are like that around here, and I suppose for most of us mat-leave/stay-at-home mommas the same rings true; most days are a little like ground-hog day with a little person to take care of....

-up at 7AM, eat/feed babe breakfast
-clean up breakfast
-play with babe until he starts rubbing eyes
- put babe down for nap
-....ahhh mummy time (this usually consists of trying to get as many small household tasks in as I can....)
-babe wakes from nap
-change babe for the day
-feed babe lunch
-pack babe up in his winter gear
-strap babe into the car.... we need to get out of the house!!!!
-babe starts getting cranky and I rush to get home so he doesn't fall asleep for too long in the car (I like when he sleeps in his crib, than I can get stuff done around the house)
- nap number two for babe....
-time for me to do a workout (that is if babe doesn't decide to wake 15 minutes into my routine...) -babe wakes from nap
-play time
-feed babe dinner
-my turn to eat dinner
-play a little more
-feed babe bottle
-8PM put babe to bed
-ahhh.... relax......

yep that about sums up the majority of my days.... so to say I don't know where my days go would be a lie.... cause most days are just like this! Sometimes it amazes me by how routine my life really is, I don't think my life has EVER been this routine... I guess this is what happens when these little people take over...
My weekend will consist of keeping this guy out of trouble (now that he is on the move) and teaching him the dreaded stairs... eek... wish this mama luck!

Wishing you all a delightful couple days!

...xo...CS

...FitRX: Strollercize...

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

I have been getting back into the workout groove lately and it feels so good.... staying active has always been a top priority for me, getting my body moving is something I think about on a daily basis, and I am constantly looking for new ways to push myself. Since Jet was born it has become increasingly difficult to find time for an independent workout where I can be completely focused. A friend told me about strollercize shortly after having Jet, I was a little skeptical about this alleged mom's workout class and wasn't sure if it would be a tough enough workout for me; I gave the class a shot and was pleasantly surprised with how it went... I am not sure if all strollercize classes are alike, but the class at the Kinsmen Sports Centre was exactly what I have been needing to get my butt in shape again!

Picture courtesy of City of Edmonton
Combining cardio, strength, endurance and core exercises, the class runs daily Monday- Friday and is different every time. Up until recently the class has required 2 instructors to accommodate the large attendance of mommies looking to get their butts kicked. When I started the class I was really surprised with the variety of different workout levels throughout the class; some moms are brand new with their 6 week old babies and just trying to get themselves out of the house, while some of the ladies in the class have been going for 3 years and their kids could almost be running around the track with them! The instructors do their best to tailor the class to the individuals who are in attendance that day, and will incorporate more advanced movements and exercises into the routines for the more advanced ladies.

I personally love making it out to this class whenever I can; the atmosphere throughout the workout is positive and uplifting, everyone is encouraging and motivating one another to keep pushing ahead! If you are looking for something new and different, I highly recommend trying this class!

...xo...CS

P.S. a jogging stroller is not entirely necessary for this class, out of convenience I have been using my regular Uppababy mall stroller only because it is already in my vehicle and I am too lazy to switch it out for the jogging stroller in the garage. The mall stroller works like a charm for the indoor classes, so don't feel like you have to spend big bucks on a stroller to come to this class!

...family day pancakes

Monday, February 17, 2014

Happy Family Day! I was so inspired by the pancake recipe on Whimsy Darling that I was urged to make my own pancakes to celebrate the holiday! We haven't had a ton of family time this weekend as Ryan has had some work to do outside the house, so these blueberry and coconut pancakes were a nice little treat to break up these long last few days for him!
The recipe I used is adapted from the Pancakes or Griddle Cakes recipe in my Joy of Cooking cookbook; I also doubled the recipe so we would have some leftovers for the next couple days!

Grocery List
3 cups all-purpose flour
6 tbsp sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
3 1/2 tbsp baking powder
2 tsp salt 

3 3/4 cups almond milk
6 tbsp melted butter
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup fresh organic blueberries
1 cup sweetened dried medium coconut

-Combine and whisk the first 5 (dry) ingredients in a large bowl; combine the next 6 (wet) ingredients in a separate bowl.
-Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined (make sure not to overmix the batter, overmixing will prevent your pancakes from being light and fluffy!).
-Heat your frying pan, or griddle on medium heat; when the griddle is hot pour your batter (I used about 1/2 cup per pancake).
-Flip pancakes when air bubbles start appearing.
-Remove from skillet when both sides are browned.
I found this recipe when doubled yielded approximately 20 medium-sized pancakes.

If you are like Ryan you might like raspberry jam on your pancakes, but I prefer maple syrup. Whatever you fancy, load it on and enjoy!!

...xo...CS

weekend reading...

Saturday, February 15, 2014

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I thought I would share some of the cool posts I found this week.... if you are looking to kill some time, or as obsessed with blogs as I am you might like some of these posts too!

This house reno will amaze you! Absolutely stunning!

I think I want one of these....it looks cool, and would be super fun for selfies..... not that I take many of those... but maybe I could start!!

The girls at NavyDarling sure knew how to convey labour and delivery in 10 Awesome things!!! I do recall most of these feelings!

Coming off the heels of Valentines Day....this playlist will keep that loving feeling in the air!

Drool.... Just look at these Pancakes.......ugh..... can someone make these for me right now!?!?! But seriously!!

I really likes this easy to follow tutorial on DIY flower arrangements! I also like her idea of having fresh cut flowers in the house year round. It makes me want to run out and get some flowers right now!

I saw this on my facebook feed and had a good chuckle.... I think they need to bring Ballet Ski back!! What do you think?!

I just realized its Family day on Monday (for us Alberta folks!)... yay for a long weekend.... what are you doing with your family??  I hope something special!!!

...xo...CS

Happy Friday... and Happy Valentines Day!

Friday, February 14, 2014

VIA
 Be Mine Valentine!!!
 From this little guy to all of you....
 Happy Valentines Day!! 
xoxoxoxo 



...xo...CS

What I Wore: Valentines Date Night.....

Wednesday, February 12, 2014



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I was a little surprised when Ryan spilled the beans that he had made arrangements for dinner on Valentines Day. I mean don't get me wrong a date night is just what we need around here, we just don't normally do much on the annual love holiday! Needless to say, I am happy to have something planned for me, I just need to figure out what cute outfit I want to wear... I have no problems with that!

The weather here lately has been nothing exciting; so the practical me who HATES being cold is thinking jeans and the cute GAP top i got a couple weeks ago will be great for this evening out! That paired with some cute glam accessories and rouge on the lips and nails will be perfect for this night out!

What do you think?! Are you doing anything romantic for Valentines Day?!

...xo...CS

Kale and Rainbow Chard Smoothie

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

If you can`t tell, I have been on a major smoothie kick this last little while, it must be all the 30-day smoothie challenges I keep hearing and reading about.

I like smoothies because almost anything goes; I enjoy experimenting with all different types of veggies and fruits to find the perfect combinations and when I picked up this rainbow chard from the store I couldn't resist throwing it in as well.  Here is the combination I tried recently and really liked, maybe you will like it too!

Grocery List
1.Organic Swiss Chard
2.Organic Kale
3.Organic Carrots
4.Mixed Frozen Berries
5.Hemp Hearts
6.Organic Mint Leaves
7.Organic Cucumber
8.Ginger
9.Granny Smith Apple
10.Organic Banana

Throw your ingredients together in a blender or bullet, add some water and blend. 
Voila!
A super fast and easy way to get your daily dose of vitamins (and then some!)

(...can you tell I am obsessed with the chard!)

...xo...CS

Happy Friday....

Friday, February 7, 2014

I am watching the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics as I type this.... I love the Olympics, and this year is extra special as I will get to watch them from the comfort of my home with Jet. I pretty much love watching any and all the sports, but my absolute favourites would have to be the snowboarding, alpine skiing, speed skating, figure skating, and of course hockey. You will probably find me glued to the TV for the next couple weeks....if anyone is needing an update, just send a message my way!

 Have a great weekend!

...xo...CS

TBT- 9 Months Later...

Thursday, February 6, 2014


Tomorrow will mark 9 months since Jet was born! I was looking at some pictures of him recently and realized how quickly things change.... my tiny little man isn't so tiny anymore...

...xo...CS

Dinner Club Details:Woodwork...

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

I hadn't heard of Woodwork until my girlfriend Jenelle informed me it would be our January dinner club location. Myself and 4 of my dearest girlfriends have been partaking in these delicious dinners for about 3 years now; every time we eat together I go home and can't wait for our next dinner; between the great food, drinks and of course conversation, we always have the best time together; last week at Woodwork was no different an occasion!

I really liked the atmosphere of Woodwork and was happy we had a reservation as the place was packed. The large bar meets you upon walking through the front door, crisp white subway-tiles line the kitchen-prep area which opens into the rest of the restaurant; this along with the exposed dim lighting and hints of wood throughout give the restaurant a simple industrial feel.

I started my meal off with a cocktail recommended by my server (pictured below), the Violet Fizz, although gorgeous to look at, the gin cocktail did leave me feeling slightly disappointed; the one thing I had recently heard about Woodwork was mention of their cocktails. The violet fizz although pretty to look at was lacking in flavour and fizz.
I have to admit the menu did not lend very well to vegetarians, or in my case pesco-vegetarians, most of the menu consisted of heavier meat dishes, which made my decision to go with the Kale Salad and Chowder an easy one. I am happy to report I was not disappointed with my choices; the chowder did have a few pieces of bacon which I picked off and happily shared with the other girls, the rich combination of both the soup and salad left me feeling fully satisfied at the end of my meal.

I, along with the other girls followed up my meal with dessert, and all I have to say is WOW!! I would highly recommend anyone checking out this place try the "Peanut Butter, Chocolate and Raspberry Thang" (....no, I did not forget its name, this is what it is called!!). Most people who know me, know I has soft spot in my heart for PB and J, this dessert combines this love with my affection for chocolate and as an added touch they packaged it into a cute individual glass jar which I thoroughly enjoyed (I'm kind of sad I didn't get a picture of this deliciousness, obvs I was too busy scarfing it down to stop and snap a pic... next time)!
The evening was another one for the books.... I mean every night with these ladies is delightful in my books, but Woodwork definitely enhanced the spirit of this particular evening! If you are in the downtown Edmonton area,  staying at the Westin (which is right across the street) or looking for a new place to eat, I would absolutely recommend giving this place a try.

...xo...CS

Indigo, you have my heart...

Monday, February 3, 2014

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Its February!!!
 You all know what that means....Valentines Day is just around the corner. Chapters, as usual has "nailed it" when it comes to the holidays. I can't get enough of those pillows, and what about those mugs... so cute!! These are a few of the items I can't keep my eyes off of.... they could also make for great gifts for that special someone.... or a great gift to myself...
wink, wink!!

...xo...CS
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