TODAY'S MENU {Bourbon Cocktail}

{Have a Napkin}

For as long as I can remember my Grandmother (better known as Grams) has been collecting paper napkins. She places them neatly around the Bridge table when her girlfriends come over, saves them for our birthday dinners, lays them on the bathroom counter, and wherever else she can find a use for them.

After seeing them around her house for so many years, they've become a staple on my list and I love to buy them as gifts/souvenirs, especially when I travel. The holiday season is upon us, so keep your eyes open for those cute little packages that you just cant resist! Save them for a special occasion if you have to, but a little goes a long way!

{photo by: a mountain of crushed ice}

{photo by: 4 showers}

{photo by: outblush}

{photo by: designer notebook}

{photo by: polyvore}

{photo by: impress in print}

{photo by: cartophilia}

TODAY'S MENU {Candied Peanuts}

{Take Flight}

From the time I was a little girl I have loved the excitement of flying (it is definitely my super power of choice). As I've gotten older I've begun to think of the airport as one of the most romantic places you can find yourself. Whether backpacking Europe, moving across the country or visiting a loved one, there is always a story that goes along with a boarding pass.

{photo by: gourmet}

My very own airport extension, one of my favourite French alternative rock bands, Phoenix.

{photo by: sex with headphones on}

TODAY'S MENU {Personalized Cookie}

{The Stamp of Approval}

I used to make fun of people who collected stamps, but lately I find myself drawn to any sort of personalized branding technique. From wax seals to irons, maybe it's the sense of pride I get when I see my name on a shiny gold badge, or perhaps it's just the mark of a good idea!

{photo by: gordon gossip}

{photo by: home fixated}

{photo by: etsy}

{photo by: 16 sparrows}

{photo by: dibjr}

{photo by: kangagraphics}

{photo by: my ink pen}

TODAY'S MENU {Food Colouring}

{Shoot from the Hip}

Lomograpghy, the photographic cultural phenomenon that brought film back, this time with analogue amplification. The creative visionary manipulates raw images to enhance graininess, shadows, saturation and contrast. Don't think, just shoot!
{photo by: pbase}

{photo by: emma janenation}{photo by: lomography}{photo by: visionary vanguard}{photo by: emma janenation}{photo by: lomography}

TODAY'S MENU {Coconut Chocolate Banana Pancakes}

I have a strange love affair with all things coconut. Whenever I ask someone how they feel about it their response is usually one of the following:

"Eww I HATE coconut!"

OR

"Mmmmm I LOVE coconut!"

Well, to all my fellow cocoNUTS, boy do I have a product for you! Moroccan Oil is simply the greatest purchase I've made in a long time! It makes my hair shine, feels silky smooth, plus it smells GREAT! If you're unsure, try the mini bottle, it lasts a good few months and won't cost you more than $20. This is definitely wonderful for hair that needs a good oil-down from all that blow-drying heat it's up against.

{photo by: eliza domestica}

{photo by: bella beauty}

{photo by: lush 360}

TODAY'S MENU {Dairy Milk Mousse Cake}

{photo by: daily mail}

This commercial cracks me up!

{WATCH ME}

TODAY'S MENU {Caramel Popcorn & Chocolate Ganache Cupcake}

{Filled with Glee}
At the beginning of every season I promise myself not to get sucked back into the addiction that is prime-time television (the investment is too risky given my busy schedule and frankly it threatens my fear of commitment). However, no matter how hard I try, there is always that one special show (or in this case, two) that manages to get me home on time. The only problem, they air at the same time!
In any case, I am addicted.
My name is Jackie and I'm a Gleeaholic!

Glee

Modern Family

{photos by: grub street, yahoo, tv overmind}

TODAY'S MENU {Blood Oranges}

With Halloween just around the corner and the premiere of Twilight fast approaching, vampires are EVERYWHERE (it's a challenge just to flick three channels before you're powerless to yet another blood-sucking prime-time).

Vampires are known for causing mass hysteria so their recent media attention should come as no surprise, which is why I have decided to fall victim to the creature du jour, part and parcel, indie rock band Vampire Weekend.

These four native New Yorkers may have only signed in 2006, but they're already making their mark with playlist-worthy tracks, influenced by African and Western-Classical music. They're new album Contra is set to be released in January 2010.

DOWNLOAD THEIR NEW SINGLE "HORCHATA" HERE!

{photos by: food and style, edgarbage}

TODAY'S MENU {Candy Suckers}

{Not so Bazaar}

In my grade 11 Photography class our teacher asked us to pick a topic for our Independent Study Project. The moment I saw this magazine cover from the 1940's I knew my passion was in Fashion Photography.

{Lauren Bacall, Harper's Bazaar, March 1943, Spring Fashions}

These vintage Harper's Bazaar covers act as inspiration, framed and hung on my bedroom wall.{photos by: oriental trading, photobucket, art}

TODAY'S SPECIAL {Boston Cream Cupcake}

I have to say that out of all the places I've been to Boston is definitely a favourite! The beautiful architecture and endless history are just a couple of features that makes the city so unique.

Here's a sneak peek inside my NEW book...BOSTON!

{make sure you click on the badge at the end to PREVIEW my book}

CLICK HERE TO PREVIEW MY BOOK!

{all photos by: wunderbug, Jackie Goodlin}

TODAY'S MENU {Grilled Cheese}

Last night I ventured out for some good old-fashioned, greasy grilled cheese. The one month-old dive in the cold Kensington garage may be small, but it has all the ingredients for a great meal (hence the cheddar, provolone, tomato and bacon).

{photo by: eat wisconsin cheese}

{photo by blogto}

TODAY'S MENU {Baked Alaska}

{Into the Wild}

Has a movie ever changed your life? I can say without a doubt that Sean Penn's adaptation of Into the Wild did.

Before this film I had never experienced such heartfelt gallantry. The cinematography takes your breath away and you can't help but feel genuine emotion for every character and what they're going through. Originally a novel by John Krakauer, this true story is based on a boy who questions society and decides to make his way to Alaska in search of the simple life - something we can all relate to.

"I'm Supertramp and you're Superapple"

"Happiness only real when shared" - the last words written by Chris McCandless.

Did I mention Eddie Vedder wrote and sang the entire soundtrack? All you Pearl Jam fans, it's worth watching the movie just for the sheer musical perfection.

Endearing Emile Hirsch plays Chris McCandless.

Sean Penn waited 10 years to direct this film until he was finally given permission by the McCandless family.

Great philosophers such as Jack London and Henry David Thoreau were strong influences throughout Chris's life and guided him to think outside of organized society.

{photos by: national geographic, norman hollyn, stumble upon, rain, silver crow creations, movie dearest, snevets, my recipes}

TODAY'S MENU {Pain au Chocolat}

{Ode to Audrey}

Self-proclaimed artisan Audrey Tatou has done it again! The french actress is beautiful, stars in beautiful films, and never fails to deliver a beautiful performance. Her brown eyes mesmerize you from the moment she appears on screen never allowing you to be anything but invested in her character.

Working with directors like Jean-Pierre Jeunet and Anne Fontaine surely helps the Art Direction of Tatou's beautiful films such as Amelie (Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain), A Very Long Engagement (Un long dimanche de fiançailles) and Chanel (Coco avant Chanel), but her sweet sincerity is what makes this leading lady tres magnifique!
{photo by: arapleting}

{A Very Long Engagement}
{photos by: movie mall, smh, hollywood jesus, allocine}

{Amelie}{photos by: movie forum, geeks and crafts, photobucket}

{Coco Avant Chanel}{photos by: film of filia, guardian, ace showbiz}

TODAY'S SPECIAL {Red Chili Peppers}

{Red Hot}

El•e•gance; Rachel Bilson, style icon, glamour girl, RED HOT!
{photo by: webmd}

{photo by: instyle}

TODAY'S MENU {Chocolate Chunk Cookie Dough}

{Oh So Sweet}

Over the weekend I found myself getting a haircut three doors down from the latest cookie craze, Sweet Flour Bake Shop (naturally I paid them a visit - for research purposes of course). Located in Bloor West Village, this trendy little haven is as sweet as it claims to be, with customized cookies and toppings galore! The 'freshly baked' concept will appeal to even the non-cookie lovers, so get in the mixing mindset and dream up your next cookie!

{my first cookie consisted of oatmeal dough, semi-sweet chocolate chunks, pretzel sticks and pumpkin seeds, a definite winner!}

{photo by: the frisky}

{photo by: sweet flour}

TODAY'S MENU {Hot Chocolate with Marshmallows}

As the cold weather creeps up on us it is difficult to stay in a positive frame of mind. The harsh wind is anything but inspiring, but the one thing I always have to look forward to are the store displays! As merchandisers scramble to replace flip flops with fur on their Pucci mannequins, shoppers begin to justify their every purchase. While the countdown to Christmas begins, here are some artistic arrangements to warm you up this fall!

{photo by: ivillage}

{White House Black Market, Florida}

{Top Shop, New York}

{Holt Renfrew, Toronto}

{Armani, New York}

{Anthropologie, California}

{photos by: vmsd}

TODAY'S MENU {Grapes}

{Like Old Again}

Recently I acquired an old wooden desk. My neighbour was going to put it out for garbage but I insisted on giving the tattered table a new home (I love a good makeover and this was the perfect before and after story!) Like old grapes turned into a beautiful bottle of wine I have big plans for this little desk, after some sanding and a coat or two of paint, it will look just like, well, old again! 

{photo by: jibble}

{The Desk}

Similar to the one below, my desk is made of wood with chipping black paint, bamboo trim and 3 deep drawers.

{photo by: 2nd hand}

{The Finish}

This is the antique look I am hoping to achieve after sanding and painting the old layers away.

{photo by: fashion lovers cafe}

{The Colour}

A classic, Martha Stuart's Robin's Egg Blue.

{photo by: bonya}

{The Hardware}

Vintage knobs from Anthropologie are not only fun to choose, but each one is as beautiful as the last. 

{photos by: anthropologie}

{The Accessories}

Picking your favourite flower and showcasing them in a clear vase is a great way to accessories your tabletop.

{photo by: country living}

{The Mirror}

Looking to glamorize your front hall? Hang this mosaic-tile mirror from Ikea for a more elegant look.

{photo by: ikea}

{The Lighting}

Tie in colours through your favourite antique lamp!

{photo by: art and light gallery}

{The Key Holder}

Spice up that old key hook with a classic silver bowl.

{photo by: silver gallery}

{The Seating}

Try an old drafting stool for a more vintage feel.

{photo by: the goods design}

TODAY'S SPECIAL {White Chocolate Coconut Truffles}

{Red Carpet Radiance}

Heidi Klum is simply stunning, hands down the most beautiful pregnant lady on the red carpet!
{photo by: nestle}

{photo by: people}

TODAY'S MENU {Candy Watches}

{Time to get a watch!}
My new obsession - plastic watches.
{photo by: off beat treats}

{photo by: retro to go}

{photo by: funky fobz}

{photos by: tic watches}

{photo by: sourcing map}

{photo by: polyvore}

{photo by: cool hunting}

TODAY'S MENU {Espresso Brownies}

Anyone who has ever had a flash of genius in the middle of the night knows how important it is to keep a pen and paper bedside. Some of my best ideas come to me at night (or in transit) which requires a LOT of espresso (even if it does come in the form of delicious brownies) and of course a fabulous set of stationary!

{photo by: 101 cookbooks}

Herman Miller brings an old classic back to life with this Nelson Swag Leg Desk, possibly one of my favourite furniture pieces of all time!

{photo by: apartment therapy}

What can I say, I'm a sucker for colour! From my very own pencil collection, Kate Spade pencils make a sweet addition to any desktop. Personalize your collection by storing your writing utensils of choice in a monogrammed glass tumbler, like these ones from Williams-Sonoma! 

{photo by: crane}

 {photo by: kaboodle}

 If you ask me, everybody should own at least one Moleskine notebook. These legendary pads come in all sizes and colours (I never leave home without my mini-Mole in case inspiration strikes)

{photo by: the journal shop}

Add a touch of class to your planner with this sterling silver pen from Tiffany & Co.

{photo by: ehow} 

Pick a colour any colour and get organized with a leather agenda from Filofax and these funky Kate Spade refills!

{photo by: distinctive stationary and kate's paperie}

Smencils make a great GREEN gift (made from 100% recycled newspaper) and keep your pencil case smelling great! I have the Bubble Gum scent and it's truly addictive!

{photo by: delight}

TODAY'S MENU {Artist's Palette Sugar Cookies}

{photo by: flickr}

{photo by: kelly mark}

TODAY'S MENU {Cheeseburgers}

{photo by: grub street}

{Sometimes a girl just needs some beef}
I think it's safe to say that anyone who knows me would describe me as a tad burger-obsessed. Now I know this topic can be somewhat controversial (people are surprisingly picky about their beef - my apologies to all you vegetarians reading this) but like a good blogger I must stay loyal to myself and write about my one true love: Cheeseburgers.

Over the years, my skills as a 'burger artist' have become so credible that my friends have actually begun to copy my topping patterns. Call me old fashioned but there's nothing like a classic beef burger topped with some aged cheddar, lettuce, tomato, raw onion and of course, Dijon mustard.

For all you red meat-lovers, here are my top 6 picks for favourite, MOST DELICIOUS cheeseburgers.

{Beer Bistro}
I can't think of anything better than a beer-infused burger...
..unless it's a beer-infused burger topped with Guinness Cheddar.
{photo by: where}

{In-N-Out}
Who said fast food doesn't count? Unavailable in Canada means the flight to the U.S. will be all the more worthwhile. Try Animal Style to shake things up a bit.

{photo by: rachelle b}

{Craft Burger}

My new favourite, Craft Burger has proven itself as one of the best burger joints in Toronto. Try the Classic or the Craft Blue, either way you'll be going back for more!

{photos by: craft burger, toronto slop}

{Kelsey's}

An oldie but goodie from my days as a waitress, this classic Cheddar Bacon Burger kept me more than well-fed during those 11-hour shifts.

{photo by: kelseys}

{Canoe}

They might be small but don't let their size fool you, Canoe's mini Caribou Burgers stay true to Canadian cuisine and are sure to satisfy your cravings!
{photo by: kqed}

TODAY'S MENU {Fairy Tale Feast}

{photo by: stylecaster}

{Fit for a Queen}
Last night I attended an art gallery crawl where I was introduced to the wonderful works of Cathy Daley, Canadian artist and professor at OCAD. Inspired by glam-getup (ballerina tutus, fairy-tale princesses and Barbie doll couture) her black pastel drawings took my breath away. Childlike motion speaks volumes on vellum, which one are YOU?

{photos by: Cathy Daley}

TODAY'S MENU {4-Tier Cupcakes}

{photo by: sugarplum invitations}

Like a tiered tower made entirely of cupcakes, these creative chandeliers will have you drooling to the floor.

{Rock Hard}

If you ask me, a rock candy chandelier fastened with ribbon and wire should be a permanent fixture in everyone's home!

{photo by: flickr}

{Spoon Me}

Hanging this flatware fixture over your table is a perfect way to lure your hungry guests into the kitchen!

{photo by: the letter}

{Chickita's Banana}

Any fun, quirky, banana-loving decorator would love this Chiquita Banana chandelier!

{photo by: core77}

{Look what the tide dragged in!}

This cluster of beautiful debris brings a sense of discovery to any space.

{photo by: tree hugger}

{Pretty in Pink}

A great way to recycle all that scrap paper, endless shades of pink prove perfection!
{photo by: ullam}


{A Different Kind of Olive Tree}

Whether it's olive oil, honey, or just plain empty, glass jars are a wonderful accessory when looking to fill up a space.

{photo by: flickr}

TODAY'S MENU {Black & White Striped Cookies}

{photo by: find my recipes}

{At Liberty}

A trip to Boston over the long weekend was just enough time to get a feel for the historic city, drinks at The Liberty Hotel being a definite highlight! In keeping with the jail-theme (preserved cells, wrought-iron bars and massive chandeliers - hung by metal chain of course) this posh prison-turned hotel transforms itself right before your very eyes. Have a cocktail at Clink, Liberty's in-house bar, drinks aren't cheap but they're sure to sentence you to a good time!

{photos by: liberty hotel}

{A Prisoner to Fashion}

{photos by: petite about}

photos by: posh posh}

{photo by: where the sidewalk begins}

{photo by: cubic zirconia}

TODAY'S MENU {Sour Gummi Worms}

{photo by: flickr}

{Book Club}
For all you bookworms out there who enjoy a good chick lit, Emily Giffin's novels have stood the test of time. Her writing never lets a gal down, proving to be better with each publication. Start with Something Borrowed (I've read it at least 3 times) and immerse yourself into Giffin's ever-identifiable world in which you're practically the leading lady!

{photos by: emily giffin}

Emily Giffin, the Real Leading Lady
{photo by: access atlanta}

TODAY'S MENU {POPsicles}

{photo by: watermelon}

I saw these and fell in love. Perfect for any occasion, fun-themed placemats are sure to add a little POP to your table!

{photos by: publique living}

TODAY'S MENU {Vanilla Bean}

{My Two Scents}
The vanilla bean is one of those rare and beautiful things. It has been said to be an aphrodisiac, which explains why it's so addictive. Like a child, this bean requires so much care that it takes 9 months to harvest to full maturity (not to mention labour intensive!) Nevertheless, I've always considered this tropical pod of heaven a special commodity.

In the summer of 2007 I backpacked across Western Europe on a very tight budget. I found myself in the south of France and although I was tempted to bring everything home with me, I allowed myself to splurge on 3 vanilla beans. I decided since they had such great meaning I would save them for a very special occasion and then bake something wonderful, but sadly I could never deem an occasion special enough and eventually they expired and had to be thrown out.

Like the beautiful scent of a vanilla bean, these bottles contain all kinds of yummy notes and have made it into my top 5 scents of 2009!
{photo by: yumdropsflavoring}

{At Peace}
Bond No. 9, The Scent of Peace

fresh, floral, citrus, woody, musk, grapefruit, black currant, lilly

{photo by: bond no.9}

{Chance it}
Chanel, Chance Eau Fraiche
fresh, floral, citrus, jasmine, amber, sweet, spicy, sexy

{photo by: chanel}


{Glamour Girl}
LuLu Guinness, Eau de Parfum
retro chic, apple, sweet pea, floral, feminine, blossoms, clementines

{photo by: lulu guinness}

{Let it Snow!}
Lise Watier, Neige
fresh, white flowers, pure, jasmine, lilly, hyacinth, rose

{photo by: lise watier}

{Hidden Treasure}
Lolita Lempicka, L de Lolita Lempicka
cinnamon, vanilla, woods, orange, musk

{photo by: beautive}

TODAY'S MENU {Cinnamon Buns}

{photo by: pghtasted}

{Are you a Mixed Chick?}
Any curly-haired gal knows how hard it is to find a good styling product. Try this leave-in conditioner and use it to smooth, style or de-frizz your curls. I fell in love with it now it's your turn!
{photo by: mixed chicks}

Also, try Ouidad Climate Control, great at the end of your shower to tame those wild curls!
{photo by: Ouidad}

TODAY'S MENU {Crème Brûlée}

{photo by: allure}

{Crème de la Crème}
When I think of decadent desserts I immediately dream of Crème Brûlée, for there is nothing quite as rich as your own personal ramekin filled with whipped eggs and sugar. Like most special things in life, one must appreciate its true beauty and recognize the passion that goes into making something so sweet.

{photo by: fashion magazine}

{Balancing Act}
In true Holts fashion, their summer 2009 window display embodies all things glamorous. The ever familiar balancing act between "I want" and "I got" is a daunting struggle, yet this modish mannequin seems to manage just fine!

{photo by: boston.com}

{Valentino: The Last Emperor}
Who knew that following Valentino around during his last year in the fashion business would be so moving. A true insight to the world of Haute Couture, you will laugh, you will cry and you will most definitely need a trip to the tanning salon afterward!

TODAY'S MENU {Strawberry Milkshake}

{photo by: sodahead}

If this doesn't bring you to the yard I don't know what will. Be inspired, get your dance on!!!

{Click HERE to get your dance on!}

TODAY'S MENU {Portuguese Custard Tarts}

{photo by blogto}

Recently I was lucky enough to spend some time in Portugal, words cannot describe what a very special country it is. Not only are you surrounded by beauty everywhere you go, but the food is delicious and cheap, so I made it a point to eat as many custard tarts as I could get my hands on. Like their pastry, the culture is so rich and wonderful that you can't help but want more, which is why I decided to savour it all and publish my very first book! Here's a little taste of the magic that is Portugal!

{photos by Jackie Goodlin}

{click HERE to see my book!}

TODAY'S MENU {Blue Jordan Almonds}

500 Days of Summer

I have been waiting for a movie like this for a very long time, finally something for the romantic-cynics of the world. A classic tale of boy meets girl with a modern-day view on love. Joseph Gordon Levitt brings a comical tenderness while Zooey Deschanel sparkles in a retro blue wardrobe.

{jordan almonds by superior nut store} {500 days of summer by imdb} {dress by blue velvet vintage} {hairband by etsy} {bow tie by cupcakesnlace} {paloma ring by Tiffany & Co.}

TODAY'S MENU {Cake}

{photo by just desserts}

{Chapeau de Gateau}
A true visionary, Alison Dawson reinvents ribbon with her fresh take on jewelry and cake toppers. A perfect gift idea for anyone who likes to stand out from the crowd, and it won't break the bank! (I have the bracelet in Coral and it's one of my favourite pieces)

{photos by chapeau de gateau}

{Welcome}

When I was a little girl my parents would take me to Golden Griddle for brunch on Sundays. Despite the menu's extensive selection of delicious (and not to mention high in cholesterol) breakfast food, I knew what I liked and never failed to order it: chocolate chip pancakes with extra chocolate chipits on the side.

To this day I still get excited over brunch, except now those Golden Griddle pancakes have been replaced by gourmet chocolate chip banana pancakes with pure Canadian maple syrup served with a spoonful of blueberries. Inspiration is everywhere, beauty comes in many different forms, but no matter what the flavour of the month, you can always count on food to entice your senses.

Eat like it's your last meal, live like you're out to lunch.

Welcome to my world.

Jax
{photo by food is luv}