Can you get any more Coastal?

On the Threshold...

2 weeks ago Friday, I was invited to attend a meeting of a newly formed choir here on the coast. It's called the Threshold Choir. I had heard a bit about it from a friend who had been and googled it to learn its' history, etc. but...could not have imagined the power, healing and magic of these voices joined in song all focused on one purpose. The songs chosen are picked/written for their nurturing words/melodies to provide comfort and inspiration for someone who is "struggling: some with living, some with dying." As you can see if you visit the website, one of the purposes of the group choir is to prepare for a time when 2 to 3 people might be asked to sing for someone in need. I don't know when I would be ready to make that step - but just being in that room for 1 night (with the opportunity to sit in the middle of the room and be sung to), changed my life and made me vibrate with energy like I've never felt before. These choirs are popping up all over and one is being formed in Vancouver as we speak. Have a listen. I can't wait to go again tomorrow night! What song fills your heart?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR0v_vlBVCg

A day at the beach...

so needed and appreciated!

my aunt and my dad...

I love this pic!

back to me...

It's so easy to lose yourself in this crazy, busy world. My life since we moved to Gibsons has been amazing! So many great things happening, people visiting, stores opening:) And then, yesterday, I stopped for an hour. I went for a reiki treatment which I've never had before. It was very comforting and relaxing. She said, you can fall asleep if you want and I thought, thanks, but I want to stay awake and enjoy every moment. Ha! I must have fallen asleep at least 20 times throughout the treatment. It was such a special, sacred and safe space to just be in the moment and relax. It's all about energy and healing. I realized that I haven't taken the time to just be in this place - take the time to just be quiet and still in the world. My George is away for a few days and I thought I'd get so much done but all I want to do (outside of work) is be quiet, lay in my bed, listen to the froggies and rain outside my window and rest. I guess it was time! I hope you're having a fantastic Friday!

a snapshot...

Toast to the Bride...

I'm not the greatest public speaker and mostly because I'm a crier. I can't even think about speaking in public and I get all welled up. Imagine having to speak/toast one of your best friends in front of all the people that she loves and cares about. Not easy but - I was so honored to be asked. Not just to speak but to be a big part of such an important day in Barbie's life. As I hope I mentioned in my speach, Barb has that ability to surround herself with love. She's incredibly patient, kind and supportive. The feeling of warmth and love generating from the group of people surrounding her on her wedding day touched my heart - and I know it touched hers. It was their turn to give back to someone who has been there - with a kind ear, solid shoulder and warm hugs. Oh, and did I mention it was also her birthday?
To Barbie!

the girls and the pretty car!

what a great day! still recuperating - will post more soon!

Barbie's Shower...

What a lovely evening! Only a week until the wedding. Send all your good weather energy...

Asked and Answered...

Dear Chatelaine Magazine,
Re: Urban Jungle Fashion Feature - September 2009
As a long-time subscriber to Chatelaine, I value and appreciate the way the magazine highlights different perspectives and points of view. However, as a size 18 curvy and petite (5'2") woman, I am often disappointed by your fashion features. I was curious when I saw that you were starting to include a "plus-size" option but instantly dismayed to see that your "plus-size" choices usually go up to a size 16 (size 15 in this issue) or XL (typically the same size range of the other body styles you feature). Any modern woman knows that the definition of "plus-size" means sizes that at least go up to 24. I know these options exist. I own them and wear them. Here in Vancouver, many of the more popular local designers have learned the benefit of being inclusive in their sizing. I believe that to inspire women to wear, be creative with and enjoy fashion, you need to give them realistic options. A size 20 woman may also be "pear" shaped. A "petite" woman (usually defines height, not size) may be a size 2 or 18. We've all heard the fashion rules so many times we could probably list them off in our sleep. As a magazine that celebrates all women from all perspectives and walks of life, isn't it time to start encouraging us all to break those rules, take risks and realize that fashion can be fun and liberating? Aren't those the women that we all notice and admire anyway?
Lorna Ketler

reply...
Lorna,
Thank you so much for your letter. I just wanted to personally apologize for the misunderstanding. The linen pant is actually available in a size 14–22 and the jacket was as well with a long sleeve. This was obviously an error on our part and by no means did we mean to offend or patronize our readers.
We'll do our best to avoid the issue in the future and again, I apologize.
Kate
-- Kate DaleyAssistant Style Editor
Chatelaine magazine
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