Wednesday 31 December 2014

Home for the Holidays

A couple weeks ago my mum said to me "Here's an idea... why don't you go see your sisters for Christmas?" I grew up in Amsterdam; my parents used to work in the Netherlands. The big age difference between me and my sisters means that when we left for Canada, seven-year-old Lindsay didn't have much say, but Rachel and Heather were already out of the nest. Now they both have their own families in Amsterdam. It's hard being away from family, and I feel it the most around Christmas.

I wish I could say the trip there was easy going but you wouldn't believe my bad luck. Originally I was meant to fly to JFK and then to Schipol. The drive up to the airport was super foggy - we could see maybe five cars in front of us and that was it. Apparently New York had it worse. First my flight was delayed... then cancelled. I've never had a flight cancelled and I really didn't know what to do. 

I called my airline - they'd set up another flight for me the next day but I was anxious to leave and already had an itinerary (typical). I asked to be put on the next direct flight. No problem, it seemed. Except that when I ran for the KLM desk and out of breath handed over my passport I was told that I was technically on the plane, but my ticket hadn't been issued. 

I asked the desk about my checked bags and was told something like "that's not my jurisdiction". This woman really did not want to help me. She continued to tell me that since I missed my flight I was out of luck (great, you don't even know what flight I was on, super helpful!) Wonderful... "What's the next step that I can take?" I ask. You may not be polite, but I shall. She pointed vaguely to ask another person.

I called again to my airline and had someone confirm this. Then I was on hold as they tried to figure out my flight (attempt #4 if we're counting). 20 minutes later... dial-tone.

Since I had started with the airline on the phone, I had to complete the process over the phone. I called again and asked if they had the transcripts from my last conversations, the answer apparently was "no", and when I explained the non-issuing of the ticket the person I was speaking to this time completely denied that that was the case. I assured her that was correct and that KLM had confirmed this. but she insisted I was wrong. 

After being transferred to the supervisor, I struggled to get my bags back, finally figuring out who to ask. Eventually, after an hour on hold I was put on a flight from Toronto to Detroit to Amsterdam. With 20 minutes to run for the gate I quickly booked it. It was kind of like in Home Alone when the whole family runs through the airport, and when I got to the gate I asked, out of breath, if I had made it in time. "Yes you made it, the flight has been delayed." It was so delayed, in fact, that I would miss my connecting flight, extending my layover in Detroit to 14 hours. 

Crying, exhausted, I finally folded. Calling in one last time I booked the direct flight leaving the next day. And finally... I was off!

Me and all my luggage (JK)

I never have problems flying, but this was unreal. I made it, however, just in time for Christmas!

And look what was waiting for me when I got there...

Thursday 11 December 2014

A Cut for Cancer With Nicole's Hair Studio



Although getting there was a total nightmare due to the Scotiabank marathon the memory of that difficult trek quickly faded as I was welcomed into Nicoles Hair Studio. Made up with splendid festivity the studio was transformed into a beauty parlour straight from the silver screen. Today they're hosting an all-out cut-a-thon with cuts for $25 and all proceeds going towards cancer research.



Julie, the receptionist, took me through the studio. The space is in an old building, as are most storefronts in the Beach, but you wouldn’t know it from how well the place is renovated. They’ve been open for 5 years here in the Beach but this is the first time they’re holding the cut-a-thon. “We’re hoping to make it an annual thing” I was told by Julie, and I find myself hoping so too.

What I love about these neighbourhood events is that everyone pitches in and it has a way of bringing the neighbourhood together. Nicole’s sister is here helping out and pepping everyone up with her bubbly personality. Local vendors have donated items to be raffled off and sold with proceeds going toward research for breast cancer. Cupcakes, mini gluten-free donuts and cotton candy tempt me.



“We expect about 50” Julie, the receptionist told me when I asked how many patrons the studio would see that day. I’m pleasantly surprised to see as many men as I do women, especially considering Breast Cancer doesn't discriminate

I wait for Rhys, who I’ve seen before. I can’t express the pain it is for me to find a stylist I trust. I think I interviewed quite a few before I met Rhys, and he swept me off my feet with his confidence, and most of all his honesty. Plus he handles my chair anxiety like a champ. Today I’m entrusting him with my outgrown golden locks. Before I get my turn to say goodbye Rhys takes the scissors to the hair of someone incrediby brave. 12 inches later and sporting a cute pixie cut her donation is bound to make someone very happy.



“What are we doing today?” “Let’s chop it off.” I'm inspired.

I’m nervous when I sit in the chair and suddenly I feel like I’m saying goodbye to an old friend, but I couldn't be happier with the finished result. My tangled mess finally has some control.



Of course, my favourite part of any event is the swag bag - silly, I know, but as my beauty routine evolves I love getting the chance to try out new products and figure out what works for me.



I use the Icon leave-in conditioner every day on my ends and my hair feels soft and strong every day.

Check out Nicole's Hair Studio and don't forget to follow their Twitter @Nicoleshair1 and like their Facebook page!

Saturday 6 December 2014

Ice Queen - In Collaboration with The Noteworthys



I love pastel blue for winter - it's a great deviation from the standard deep reds of the season. It's a refreshing color choice... and I feel a little bit like Queen Elsa. I had a great time shooting this look with The Noteworthys, a Toronto-based network which connects clientele to designers.



I'm particularly excited by their project - stay in the loop by signing up early here.



Amy's wearing thrifted black cropped sweater, sweater fluted skirt from H&M and shoes from Aldo. L.K's wearing Topshop crop top, Joe Fresh silk track pants and shoes from Aldo.

Tuesday 2 December 2014

Au - Stay Gold

There's always something to see in Toronto. Here's what caught my eye this past week:

On the bathroom wall at Betty's
Tile work at Queen's Park Subway Station
Perfect lighting at Sarah's apartment
An old building in Yorkville
Christmas has come to Chapters Indigo!
What are your favourite places in the city?