Persimmons - To love or to loathe?

Gotta love a fruit that works with the room ;)

I'm taking a much needed break from my last bit of Xmas preparations to talk about another seasonal fruit that I think deserves a little more respect : Persimmons (AKA 'kaki' in Japanese). I happen to love them and so do the kids, but for some reason I'm under the impression most people hate them. And who could blame them?  Taste the fruit while it's still green, and you'll be spitting it out in a second.  If that happened to you, please give this amazing fruit another chance!  Much like the pomegranates this wonderful fruit comes around but once a year, so we might as well learn about it and enjoy it.  It's yummy and nutritious!  And did I mention how beautiful it will look on your coffee table or kitchen counter?  Well, that too.

Two things to know about persimmons ...

1. Chose wisely- you don't want to eat the fruit unless it's ripe.  So if the fruit feels hard, leave it on the counter for a few days until it softens.  The softer and mushier, the sweeter (and messier) the fruit will be.  But if you don't like the texture of a mushy fruit, you can cut it up into wedge-shaped pieces and serve it like an apple while still firm.  Different varieties of persimmons have different shapes — round, squat, pointed — they're all beautiful and very tasty!

At home we love them fresh comme voici...

Jiro persimmon - avoid the white core!

A somewhat unorthodox mix but heck...

 it's healthy, and they eat it!

2. Whatever you do: Do not eat the white core!  It's nasty!! There, now you know.

Here's another way of eating the fruit, though I think it works best with the Hachiya persimmon or a super ripe Jiro (as shown in the photos).  The Hachiya persimmon is pointy like an acorn, and sweet as honey when very soft!

Cut the top off...

Cut the fruit in half...

Scoop the meat out with a spoon!  YUM!

While in season, we eat the fruit almost daily as a snack after school. I buy the super ripe ones (in packs of 4) in the 'reduced' section at our local market for a couple of dollars. You see, the mushier the better, and they can be eaten the same day. 

So, you've tasted them, loved them and want more?  There's really one more thing you should know before you go hating Persimmons for another reason: the raw fruit can treat constipation, so take it easy or you'll get the runs have to be treated for something else! Can't say I don't tell you everything :0!

If, like me, you'd like to know more about this winter fruit and discover new ways to prepare it, here are some excellent posts to read out of these 'new to me' blogs!

Out of the Orchard (these recipes are simple and will try them all!)

Medlar Comfits (loved this post!)

Smithsonian Magazine (worth checking it out!)

So?  Are you going to be a persimmon lover or hater?  You'll have to let us know!  And one more thing... Let's stay connected during the holidays thru Facebook, here's my page  :)  I'm off to wrap!  Happy Tuesday everyone!

When and how to go GREEN during the holidays

There's so many ways to 'greening' Christmas. It's a matter of making choices - all the time. From the tree we pick, to the stores we shop at, to the products we buy or make, to the wrapping, to the dishes we use while entertaining... being conscious of how our small and big gestures make a positive difference is a great incentive to go green. I'm not big on crafts (nor baking!) but I was determined to do one thing this year: shop locally (I've got about 10% of my shopping left). Good news is, I don't think I'll go back to the big mall any time soon. I found myself discovering new shops and their wonderful owners, new products, and yes: I even  ended up saving money!  

* all pictures by Getty photography

Here are a few tips (but there's a million more!) if you're looking for ways of greening your holidays...

When in the Red, go Green!
If you’re watching your pennies this year remember, everyone loves a homemade gift. If you like to bake (even if you don’t) a box of cookies is always welcome. Jams, jellies, relishes and canned goodies make wonderful hostess gifts that are enjoyed long after the party ends. 

Thrifty is Green and Green is cool!
If you’ve got friends and family with collections or who love vintage, scour the thrift and vintage stores for original and unique treasures.

A vintage purse or any of the above would be just fine, Santa!

Reuse and recycle!!
I've mentioned this before, but I just love the idea of giving potted bulbs in a beautiful china dish from a thrift store in December and have blooms in March. Or take children’s art work and create something special (here are some moreideas) to mark a special time in your child’s life. You know what I'm wishing for... a vintage purse! But wait a minute, I already asked for something: the ultimate wallet!

Get crafty!
Put on your thinking cap (or hit google!) and get crafty! Take out the sewing machine! Nothing could be simpler than string bags for lavender or potpourri. How about a unique pillowcase with embroidered initials? Crochet some napkin rings, knit a scarf, make a bird house – don’t be shy about using your crafting talents. 
Green wrapping is fun!
My sister always goes 'green' when wrapping! I can't wait to see what she comes up with this year! Use silk scarves, recycled paper, vintage ribbons, even newspaper can be stamped or painted. The key here is to have fun and involve the kids every time you can! Green wrapping is always well received! Explore the possibilities and just keep at it, amigos. Tomorrow my segment on RelieF, will be about travelling with kids... after all, half the fun is getting there! :S

Any type of fabric is a perfect choice for green wrapping!

*All pictures by Getty photography

My quest for the perfect wallet is over - Thank you, Scout!

Photo credit "The Grid"

My family Secret Santa has an easy job this year. It involves running to Scout on Roncesvalles, meeting the lovely owner Leah, and picking-up my pre-selected gift.  I typically love to be surprised - which I’m sure can be a real pain in the neck for the person doing the shopping for me, but this year there’s only one thing my heart desires: the ultimate wallet. Yes, it does exist and it’s made by Hobo!

Scout is becoming a regular destination for me!

So glad it's close to home.

When I first saw it, I almost cried. Finding the right wallet is like finding the right man. I’m not kidding, it’s complicated. The one I’m presently using (talking wallet now) has been around for 7 years, and it’s looking tired. We need to part. Call it the 7 year itch.

It will be replaced by this iconic double frame clutch-wallet by Hobo. A stylish design and carry-all attitude it can be tossed in a bag or carried alone - somebody was thinking while designing this beauty and I like that!

Meet my Lauren - the double frame clutch by Hobo

Generally wallets (and purses) speak volumes about their owners. Nothing worse than being at a nice restaurant, all dressed up, flashing a beautiful purse just to take out an ugly, scary, completely disorganized wallet. So mes amies, if your wallet looks like it's concealing evidence of an awful crime, or a child is trapped in it, or you are carrying the Watergate files, or you need assistance to zip it closed, or... OMG... all of the above..  It's time to clean your wallet's act or simply ask your Secret Santa to get you a better one!  The Lauren retails for around $100. You've been good, haven't you?

Here are some wallet features that will help you find what you are looking for in a flash, keep important items safe, and well organized. 

• Secured center panel with card slots
• ID window
• three credit card slots at the front for those frequently used
• a large zip pocket
• bill pocket (oh, I love this one!!) 
• zip security pocket for your phone and keys (pinch me, please)

In this case it also includes...

• Italian top-grain leather, extra tumbled for a unique ‘broken-in’ look and beautiful shine
• Brushed Nickel Hardware
• Measures 8.5W x 5H x 1D
• In camel for me please, but also comes in red, a delicious blue, black and brown too!

Not only will this wallet help me carry what I need daily, but is relatively compact so that it can be thrown in all my day bags or simply carried around like a clutch for night outings.  Please note that your SIN card, your kids' birth certificates, passports (seriously!) and cheques should never be in your wallet!  Why do women feel they need to carry so much stuff around?

 

Final word on wallets and men: if you ever come across the perfect wallet and it looks gorgeous to boot, act fast:  Grab it, and take it home...or get your Secret Santa to do it for you! 

Keeping at it, 19 days ‘til Xmas!

How's the shopping going?
Do you have gift ideas for everyone on your list?
Are you stuck on someone in particular?

Let's face it; certain people are just more difficult to buy for - no question. What it often comes down to is they just seem to have everything! O.k. stop right there ... no one has everything. '3 steps to a perfect gift'. Retailers are in the business of tempting us each year so this is not ‘mission impossible’. Go back to my '3 steps to a perfect gift' and write down a few ideas or email me your toughest case. I’m relentless when it comes to finding the right gift.

Now back to today’s mission: Don’t stop shopping – head out there at every opportunity and take full advantage of lunch hours and online. However, at this point it’s about getting yourself ready for the holidays and holiday entertaining.

walk it....

Here’s your 'Last Chance List' - Avoid Stress!

*Mark your calendar with all holiday parties, festivities both firm and tentative.

*Share them with your better half to avoid conflicting engagements (speaking from experience here)

*Free time (or at least unscheduled time) should be clearly marked on your calendar – you may need this time for last minute to-do’s or mental health!

*Block days for quality time with your favourite person, your kids - or simply to be alone with a book! Sometimes it helps to ‘brand’ this time so that it is treated with the respect it deserves: I call mine a ‘Mandatory Pajama Day' which means either I stay home and do squat or I reserve these days for very low key and relaxing activities. These are important opportunities to catch your breath between commitments and actually enjoy some downtime. After all, isn’t this what the holidays are all about?

Since December is here, it's also time to...



or truck it...

*send invitations to the events you’re hosting. (That means you can also book your grooming appointments so you’re duly coiffed and buffed for your most important events.)

*update your electronic address book or your ‘snail’ mailing list so all your Christmas messages, cards, and letters will actually arrive at the right place at the right time.

*if you're buying cards, the stores still have a wide selection so now’s the time to find the perfect card with the perfect sentiment! Don’t delay because they’re picked over fast.

*if you are into baking, now's the time to get going, invite your friends over and have a baking fest or a cookie exchange... I hear it's fun!  I should really try this one day, je ne suis pas much of a baker!

That's it for now. It's time to haul in the Christmas tree and deck the halls! Here's what I've been up to Fa la la... la la!  With 18 days to go, we're doing well!

just bring it home, already!

3 Dollar Store finds and 1 confession

I have a love-hate relationship with the darn dollar store. The very concept of the place goes against everything I believe and try to live by. You know? Like...less is more, buy local, live green, good quality pays off, you name it. But who am I kidding?  Once in a while - especially around holidays or birthday parties, I can't resist diving into the madness with hopes of finding clever stuff for less - which by the way typically comes with a price tag of $2, not $1. Here are three of my latest finds:

Black Boa.

Who says a mantel can't be sexy? 

I never thought I’d be in the market for black feathers but Gayle suggested I add some to my mantel to complete the beautiful wreath my lovely friend Meredith gave me which I installed smack in the middle of the mirror, with... way a minute... a Dollar Store plastic hook.

 

 

Whatta y’a know??? I think I like it. Can you say “Grrrr” with a Latino accent?

Then there’s the ribbon organizer, a gift from Gayle. She knows me well.  Don’t you love anything that helps organize stuff? I own a few... many from the Dollar Store.  I’m building a temporary wrapping station (more on this soon), so this gadget is perfect!  Merci, Mom!

 

Then there’s the black raffia and Santa clothespins to hang the lovely Christmas cards and good wishes right on the entrance painting. Before you go shaking your head, I'll have you know that it’s a step up from hanging cards on the rope anchoring the Xmas tree in place a not so distant memory in this household! Let’s see how it looks as it fills up!

 

The first card arrived yesterday from Montréal, gracias to my parents.  Only them would know to match the card to the frame!

 Here's the Santa clothespin, I have 6 of them.

Seriously, the rule of thumb when I buy something at the Dollar Store is that it has to last or be good enough to donate so that it can be reused (anyone interested in black feathers, please forward shipment address), will be enjoyed (art supplies, baskets, boxes and books can be great), and last but not least it is to never, ever, be ingested or in contact with food.  No kidding.

What do you think?  Are you as conflicted as I am when it comes to the Dollar-mania?

3 steps to the perfect gift

Bon Friday!  Yesterday was all about making lists to stay on track and avoid stressful situations.  I also posted about holidays' style.  I though it would be helpful to revisit the gift list, so back to your list of known suspects: you've got their names down, how much you want to spend for each one of them, now you need to identify the right gift for each person (even if they've been naughty) and get cracking!

My 3 Steps to the perfect gift - It’s simple and it works for just about any occasion and person!

1. Is that business or pleasure?

Think about your relationship to each person on your list. Is it personal or business? How would you define the relationship: Rarely seen but dearly loved, a cherished family member, a valued client or business contact, or a friend whom you absolutely adore. This step will define the nature of your gift (and help you avoid a terrible faux pas!)

2. What are they all about?
Find their passion.  What comes to mind when you think about that person? What’s their main talent? Do they golf? Garden? Cook? Do they have a collection? These pointers should guide you in your search, and help you gather ideas.

3. I think therefore I wrap, and then I write!
Take the time to wrap each gift beautifully - paper, ribbon, flowers – be creative here and remember it’s an important part of the gift. A word or two... Always spend a moment to write a note (not just sign your name!) – the note is your opportunity to really personalize your gift.

A couple of things to keep in mind and you're ready to go!

When in doubt...
If you don’t know the person very well, my go-to place is gourmet chocolate (nobody in the history of the world has gone wrong with them!), wines or – a carefully-chosen book can work for just about everyone.

Careful here...
Gifts cards are also an option but one I reserve to (one!) group of relatives. Why? Because you need to know them well enough to correctly source their favourite shop (boutique or chain, jewellery or clothes, sporting goods or electronics), and have the confidence in knowing they’ll be perfectly happy choosing something for themselves. In other situations, a gift card can seem just a bit too easy - as though you couldn’t be bothered to choose the gift yourself. So be sensitive and identify who on your list values the thought behind the gift more than the gift itself. I don't like gift cards, but I do give them to ONE group of people: teenagers.  They love to be in control of what they buy, and that's fine with me.

A tisket a tasket...
Wrap as you go! Spare yourself that last minute wrapping nightmare. A basket is a fun way to present a themed gift. Fill it with all the goodies you know they love!

We eat first with our eyes!
A carefully chosen gift thrown in a bag with some tissue paper is a bit like serving a fabulous meal that has been thrown into the blender and dumped on the plate. Just don’t do it. If wrapping is not your thing, don’t leave the store or mall without having it wrapped by a professional. In short, don’t blow it at ‘hello’.

Get inspired!
The holidays are the perfect opportunity to extend good wishes for the year to come and thank people for the role they’ve played in your life: Thank them for placing their trust in you and becoming a client; thank them for being a thoughtful friend through a difficult time; thank them for being a part of your life and just an all-round wonderful person. Wish them a good year and happy times with their families, it's good karma period.

Final words to the wise...
It’s  NOT about the money!!  Assign your budget accordingly – some relationships demand an appropriate gift purchased at an appropriate venue, while others allow you to explore the many ways to reuse and recycle interesting materials to create something unique for a fraction of the cost of a brand-spanking new gift. Which brings us to...

Reuse and recycle!!

Give potted bulbs in a beautiful china dish from a thrift store in December and have blooms in March. Or take children’s art work and create something special (here are some more ideas) to mark that time in the child’s life. Create a calendar with family pictures taken through the year so grandparents can enjoy them and even brag a little too. Get cracking on these ideas, they require more time but your efforts will pay off! 

And now the million dollar question... have you liked my facebook page?  Thanks!  Have a great weekend!  :)

What I Wore on RelieF - IV

The Derby - Little Back Dress by Michelle Carey $182 - Fresh Collective on Roncesvalles

Silk Flower by Elizabeth Victoria 

Other accessories : Mon closet :)

What I wore on RelieF last night was this lovely LBD (little black dress), also recently worn at a black tie event. I love versatile clothing, and the Derby dress has to be the ultimate example of a wonderfully adaptable dress. Extra bonus: It's 4 seasons.  Extra, Extra bonus: It's got pockets!!!  I'm not kidding!!!  I can see it quickly becoming a staple in my closet. 

As always, accessories will define the look.  A big silk flower, a wide bracelet, a lovely vintage clutch, and classic black pumps will turn this LBD into chic evening wear...

Picture credited to 'The Staff'

Now...There is one more thing this dress and black ties are perfect for... a fascinator!  Gotta love anything that works wonders with very short (or long) hair and adds an original touch.

Also by Elizabeth Victoria

A simple shirt, a colourful necklace, fun tights and boots?  Effortless style.  The look that's always put together with an underpinning of elegance and originality. Being dolled up from head to toe in the latest trends and sporting the season’s ‘hot’ colours are a recipe for disaster – avoid it like the plague!

A belt, a cardigan and fun shoes will also put a spin on my new little dress.  So my advice while looking for holiday chic?  Stick with the understated elegance of a classic. You’ll wear it again, you can reinvent it endlessly and it’s a sound investment you won’t regret in January.

From classic chic to casual smart.  There's a winning combo for you.  And you know what?  These wonderful qualities apply to all Michelle Carey's dresses.  How lucky are we, ladies?

Stress free Xmas - We're on a mission!

Last night's segment on RelieF with Gisèle Quenneville, was all about reducing the dreadful stress the holidays bring along.  To watch the segment click here.  Go to 14'48".  Here's what we talked about...

The secret to perfect Christmas happiness is simple...Start now!

The beauty of this year's Christmas is that YOU'VE STILL GOT TIME!  enjoy the process, spend wisely, show your creativity, and get in the holiday spirit! Any questions or challenges, email me! 

 

Here are a few tricks...

Great gifts by Cathy Thorne on Etsy - http://on.fb.me/vI2MRS

Lists are the ultimate organizational tool.  It's simple and effective.  I keep several of them at any given time. If you were to only write one list this holiday, it would only make sense for it to be about gifting.  It will save you time and money, and who can pass on that?

La Gift Liste - A proper list (or several) will help you stay on track with gift buying while keeping you within your budget. Write your list in a cahier - sheets of paper get lost (trust me).  Your gift list should have 3 columns with the following headings:

1. Who? List everyone, personal and professional.
2. How much per person? Establish your budget from the get go!
3. What to gift? If you don't know, leave this area blank but if you do, write down ideas or specific gifts.  Writing things down will help you remember what you are looking for and being focused saves us time!

Does your list include teachers, babysitters, coaches, good neighbours and other professionals that are good to you and yours all year?  We'll talk about how to come up with thoughtful gifts tomorrow.  You don't need to brake the bank but you do need to take this opportunity to say Thank you!  Now, let's get cracking and write the gift list out!

Word to the wise:  Add a few generic last minute gifts to cover an acquaintance or long lost friend (or two) who did not make the ‘A’ list and who will inevitably arrive at your door, gift in hand. Happens to me every year! If you’ve got an idea or two for these unknown recipients, add it to the list. I’ve already stashed 5 boxes of gourmet chocolates that are wrapped (thank you Costco) and ribboned, a blank label in place so I can quickly add a last minute name and, presto – I’m ready for the inevitable.

Other Lists to have at hand:

 

• Menus
• Grocery lists
• Things to buy (clothing & shoes, sheets and towels for guests, you name it - be specific, it will save you money)
• Travelling list (more on this soon)
• Gifts to sent out in the mail (and by when)
• List of batteries needed for new toys
• Mailing list (does it need to be up-dated?)
• Place special orders (flowers, food, Etsy gifting, etc)

**  If you love lists and/or know of someone that does, here's a must read 'L'art des Listes' by Dominique Loreau.  She's brilliant!

 

The calendar:  Compile in one calendar all important dates.  When?  NOW!  (as in today!!) it's also time to book professional and grooming appointments: hair stylist, aesthetician,  and babysitting.  Get it done, subito.  If you're looking for a terrific Family Calendar go to More Time Moms. En français? Par ici!  I'm a huge fan of this company, and have been for years now! The calendars are big, kid friendly, and you can see the whole month at a glance.  Here's what should be written on your December calendar by now:

• Parties
• Dinners (at home or elsewhere)
• School concerts
• Sports Events
• Holidays (Time off)
• Working Day
• Block some REAL time OFF (at least two days if you can).  Here's the trick: Practice saying 'Non, merci' and get some rest.

One (or two or three) more things...

• Lower your expectations, nothing needs to be perfect (especially if it's stressing you out!)
• Accept help (why not host pot lucks?)
• D is for 'Delegate'!
• Don't give into panic, take control by tackling one thing at the time - we still have 24 days!

There you have, easy peasy.  Tomorrow will be all about finding the perfect gift for each person on your list!  Is there another strategy you find helpful to keep stress under control during busy times?  Please go to my Facebook page and share!  À demain!