I was asked by Computer Arts (AKA Creative Bloq online) to share my 2016 resolution as a designer along with 14 other cool people.
What’s mine?…
Lately, the creative and social landscape of the industry seems repetitive to me — which has stunted me from creating just for the sake of it out of fear of being redundant. This year, I’m caring less about what my current and former online presence and work says about me; less about what I’ve already done and what others have done and more about what my body of work and the collective impact I make will say about me when I’m 60 or 70 or 80. For me, 2016 will be more focused on thinking about the long game.
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Check out the entire list of everyone’s resolutions here and thanks Creative Bloq for including me!
Oh, what can change in a year. My, what the future can hold if we only dare to dream.
It’s funny how one simple thought — a hypothetical “what if?” — can find its way inside your brain, take residency deep in your mind, and pester you at will. Thoughts are relentless and beautiful beasts. Thoughts have a way of overcoming you, just at the moment you begin to grow content.
It seems every few years, my life changes; or rather, I change my life. I chase something, I scratch my itch, I nest for a bit to catch my breath, and then I start over again. Cycle, cycle, cycle. Propelling me forward just when I start settling, like a steady, never-ending tide.
Lately, I feel like I’m at the water’s edge once again, awaiting and welcoming this wave to sweep me off my feet — and I don’t want it to stop; I don’t want complacency. I crave challenge; I welcome the wave.
A thought has overcome me recently that I can’t quite shake. Late into the night and early in the morning, I lie awake, my mind drifting and dreaming of more. Each day I wake up with a head full ideas and by the time I go to bed, there are more, and there are less, and there are edits made. I’m not yet sure what it means, but I feel like I’m on the precipice of being swallowed by the ocean; by a wave that will carry me away to an even greater place. And yes, this wave could also pull me under, but the hope for the former is too powerful to run from.
What if life could be even better than it already is? That thought is intoxicating. That thought haunts me.
What if we all dared to dream? What if we then pursued that dream? What if we threw our fears aside and welcomed the unknown?
What if?
(PS: These feelings (in part) inspired a recent film project I was a part of. Check out Eleven Dreams here).
Disclaimer: This essay has been nearly a year in the making, and I haven’t published due to a fear of offending people, but I finally realized that conversation is one of the greatest equalizers, and it’s my responsibility as a creative professional to foster a dialogue around this important — but potentially touchy — subject in the hopes that it bridges a gap, adds some much-needed perspective, and encourages a healthier industry. So please bear with me and do me the favor of reading the whole post. In your mind, imagine a gentle voice rather than a pointed finger.
A few people have asked me why I quit blogging under Hands and Hustle and why I merged my Instagram accounts, so I owe you guys a bit of an explanation, which I couldn’t have without launching into a much larger discussion surrounding the “maker movement”, a topic that has been on my mind a lot lately — and one that I’m curious to explore with you guys.
Before I dive in, let’s establish what the maker movement is. As described in this HuffPost article, it’s
“an evolution of millions of people who are taking big risks to start their own small businesses dedicated to creating and selling self-made products.”
I’m sure it won’t come as a surprise that DIY continues to be a top search on Pinterest. Companies like Kickstarter and Etsy are equipping people with access to resources that help turn their handmade business dreams into a reality, and this passion-fueled cultural movement is impacting and challenging the old operations of industries everywhere — from food, to tech, to apparel and beyond. In essence, I love what this movement represents: I love that more focus is being given to individuals over massive companies; I love that people are paving their own paths and becoming business owners; I love how this movement has the potential to change how we shop, what we have access to, and give us a better understanding of what we’re buying as consumers; and I love that it’s so openly and widely supported. However, aspects of this movement really bug me, namely the public and social media promotion of it, which often puts forth only half-truths and rose-colored glasses ideals about what it means to be a creative professional (or self-made “maker”).
This pattern of thought dilutes and cheapens an industry that has been trying to prove itself for decades previous. Competition is only growing for anyone who is a business owners, but the idea being promoted that a can-do attitude is all you need to succeed is not only a scary one, but one that diminishes the efforts of those who came before us — those who’ve paved the way and who have worked hard to get themselves and the industry to where it is today.
Headline Skimmers
So, what does this have to do with my old blog, Hands and Hustle? Simply put, the blog name, the language I used, and the hashtag I started, #HandsAndHustle, helped put forth a trend and band-wagon-hopping tendency that quickly took over and populated my feed. Before I go on, let me clarify some very important things: 1. I think making things yourself is a noble pursuit that everyone should be practicing, 2. I think exploring your creativity and stretching your skills and abilities is a very healthy approach to life itself, and 3. I’m still thrilled that people use the hashtag because I love what it’s supposed to represent. However, at the end of the day, thanks to the internet and social media, many read the headlines and skip the body copy which leads to unfair beliefs based on shallow perceptions.
The Original Doers
Think for a moment of our ancestors: the original “makers” and “doers”. They didn’t wear DIY as a badge, rather, DIY was an essential part of life. Or what about home-ec, a once-mandatory class that has since been wiped from many curriculums? I think growing up in the age we do, where technology has made life easier, we’ve naturally become adults who crave exploring these skills and activities, hence our inclination to fill this gap with personal pursuits, guided by the school of the Internet. For many reasons, it makes sense why this is happening, and, generally speaking, it’s not all bad. I think the growing trend towards freelancing paired with the increasingly more deserted full-time landscape renders this shift inevitable. I also think that, ironically, everyone is already (and should be) a maker, in the broader sense of the word. Where I find issue is in the cheap, overnight, public claiming and pursuit of a creative career. While more and more will (and I believe should) take their futures and careers into their own hands, I think it’s important that we respect the industry and the years upon years of hard work that many underwent to make these fields professional and respectable places. It would be a shame if, when this fad fades in time, those still chugging along in the self-made creative space were left in its dust — tired, forgotten and underpaid once again, cutting away all of the progress made up until this point.
Word on The Tweet
I should pause to say that I do not believe that people are being dismissive or disrespectful on purpose. The problem lies in that, because of blogs, social media, etc. this “maker movement” promotes the false idea that that if you simply “do” and “make” and have a great attitude, you’ll become a success, and I myself have been guilty of helping push this idea along. On my old blog and Instagram, I used cheap language and phrases such as “movers, shakers, hustlers and makers,” without realizing the damage of this seemingly (and, in theory) positive, feel-good movement. I wrote about making and doing, and celebrated the “doers and dreamers” of the world, which is still something I support and believe in, but the issue is that this dialogue without the support of full story promotes an unfair impression of what it means to be a professional employed in a creative industry. The words hustle, do, make, etc. may be just that — words –, and it’s not the use of them that bugs me, but what irks me is that many who use them do so with the wrong intentions. While harmless, we can do better than hot phrases that romanticize something as serious as your career and life, which is exactly why I decided to separate myself from this kind of language, at least superficially.
Hype
Hype has made being a creative professional seem fun and easy, which I think is part of what attracts many people to give it a shot — how awesome is it to get paid to do what you love!? Sure, it can be fun, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy, or that there aren’t hard days, or that sometimes — specifically because your job is also what you love, you’re turned off from it and the pleasure and joy it once offered is robbed from you for lengths of time. That’s the stuff you don’t hear. The conversation is lacking in the full story that it takes guts, sleepless nights, a strong work ethic, business savvy, time, and, for many, professional training to make it in this saturated space — and then even then, it doesn’t guarantee results or success. You cannot work in a silo and expect to make it simply because you have a good attitude and use relevant hashtags. That is simply not enough, and I think that’s a really, really good thing.
To Love It, Even When You Hate It
I’m certainly not a stickler for post-secondary, and my views are not archaic in the sense that I believe there’s a right way of doing it. I don’t believe in the “back in the old day,” mentality, and I certainly don’t believe that this “maker movement” is all bad, or that people are purposely cheapening the industry. However, I do believe that if we’re going to continue to promote becoming a creator online, it’s only responsible that a secondary dialogue be started that provides a more well-rounded perspective on the matter. I’ve witnessed many (myself included) roll their eyes in silence over this problem, but passive-aggression gets you nowhere and I think it only fair that more people from a variety of backgrounds begin to offer more insight and perspective on the topic, so that’s exactly what I’m trying to do here, and I’d love to hear what you guys think in the comments below — but before I end this off, I want to make it clear that in saying all of this, I’m not trying to cut people down. Rather, I’m saying this in defense of and to champion those creators who came before us: those who never make claims; those who know the reality that having a can-do attitude is not always the secret ingredient to a client’s tight deadline. Ironically, I still encourage everyone to make something (of) themselves, to spend an evening on a DIY project; draw or create something for fun or for a challenge, but if you’re going to pursue it as a career, please do so with respect of those who’ve dedicated their lives to that particular creative practice and do your due-diligence by researching and educating yourself on the topic beyond lurking social media. Do yourself a favor and make sure you really want it. Make sure that you’re willing to continue your practice, even when you hate it and it hates you.
My home office has been nearly a year in the making. I once worked in the smaller bedroom adjacent to it, but after we took over the basement and Shawn moved his office downstairs, it was time for an upgrade — but it didn’t come without a cost.
In the before photos, you’ll see the space the day I bought the house (aren’t the doily curtains kind of adorable?), and the state it got to about a year in (peeling wall hell). The room wasn’t bad those first few months: I changed out the fixtures, replaced the curtains and painted the wood trim and doors, but after a few months, the paint on the ceiling and walls started peeling and flaking off. Turns out, a quick paint job was done before selling, and acrylic was slopped on top of oil-painted plaster from the 50s, which didn’t end well.
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Shawn and I spent days scraping, chipping and sanding the walls and ceiling down, and then another day priming it with an oil sealer that literally made us both sick from the fumes, but in the end, the result was well worth the elbow grease. After a splash of dark paint, furniture, plenty of plants, and a big, plush Persian rug from ECarpetGallery to anchor the space and keep my feet warm and cozy, my home office is now a place I very much enjoy working and hanging out in. Read more and scroll down to see more photos and a source list / mood board to shop similar items!
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In celebration of International Woman’s Day earlier this week, I woke up to discover I was featured in Format Magazine’s list of 55 talented women in creative fields that they love.
Go have a look and get ready to be inspired. And while you’re at it, browse the mag and bookmark it. I check it every few days and find it to be super-fresh and relevant. Thanks Format!
Last October, in the midst of my kitchen renovation, I woke up at 4:30 am on a balmy morning and hopped into a warm van en route to a stadium holding four houses, once destined for the wrecking ball.
If you watched Game of Homes, Season 1, you know the drill, but for those of you who haven’t, Game of Homes is a reality show / contest where four couples (siblings, parent and child, married cuties etc.) compete to renovate a home that has otherwise been slated for demolition. The homes are transported to an area and, each week, the rivals tackle one room. Every week, a different guest judge (or judge duo) comes aboard to critique the renovated rooms and, together with resident judges, a winner is chosen for a novelty prize along the 8-week road to the grand prize: one lucky couple is chosen by the public to win the home they’ve been renovating as well as a plot of land to put it on and all the furniture inside. Holy smokes!
This season — with Dave Salmoni as the host and Colin and Justin as the resident judges — I was asked to come aboard to join them in judging the contestants master bedroom transformations. You’ll have to wait until it airs to see what happens, watch shenanigans unfold, and see the trouble Colin, Justin and I get into, and who wins the bedroom challenge, but in the meantime, I wanted to share a few photos I snapped behind the scenes.
The show will air on the W Network April 12th (my episode will be on in early May). Read the full press release here.
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I’ll share another post once it’s aired (yes, I’m having a viewing party that I’ll be sharing on Snapchat (SabrinaSmelko) and Instagram). Weeeee!
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Yours truly after getting dolled up in the morning. I had laryngitis and was in super-tired reno-mode, so makeup artist Lucky B was my saviour.
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Hot lemon tea while practising my 5″ heel walking skills at 8am. My top is from Zara and the trench-sweater is from Joe Fresh.
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Post-lunch dessert table… Yeah, you can bet I enjoyed those peanut M&Ms and gummy candies.
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I first connected with Colin and Justin through my role as Editor at Design*Sponge where we became e-pals after I featured a before and after post on their cottage (look out for another before and after of their most recent Haliburton cottage reno on D*S on Friday). Since then, we kept in touch until the day I got the email request to hop aboard the show with them. They are as hilarious as you think they are, but they’re also super kind and were so accommodating and helpful on-set. Really, I have nothing but great things to say about Dave Salmoni and the whole crew who make TV happen.
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Duh duh duh… The steel-logo-clad wall behind Colin, Justin and I in the judging room — as if contestants needed another reason to be intimidated!
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This is the creative studio room used by the contestants to search for inspiration, do research, pick finishings, and play around with good old fashioned pencil and paper.
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At the end of the day, this plate was in my trailer which they told me to sign to commemorate the day and all of us guest judges. Super cool to be in the same company as Jillian Harris, Todd Talbot, Dave and Kourtney Wilson and more! Can’t wait to see where this goes.
Stay tuned to the W Network on April 12th to watch the show unfold!
Boy oh boy, has a lot changed in my life in the last week. I’m both rested and exhausted, super-happy and impatient, and I have a cold, so there’s that too.
Before I dive into some exciting news about my work life, the fact that I just got engaged (!), and that my Game of Homes episode airs next Tuesday (did you catch me on last night’s previews for a second at the end on W Network? No? Check my Snapchat: SabrinaSmelko) I’ll start in chronological order of life, which means first up is my recent trip to Cuba (which you may know about it you follow me on Instagram). Enjoy plenty of photos from the trip as well as some anecdotes and highlights. xo
Last week, my sisters and I decided to get away and took a very last-minute vacation to Cuba (we went as a family two years ago, but this time, it was just us three). We booked on a Tuesday and flew out the following Friday to Varadero where we stayed at the gorgeous Iberostar Varadero resort and spa.
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I had been there five years ago with fam/friends by accident (we booked elsewhere at a new resort that wasn’t ready in time, so they diverted us there and I’m so glad they did because, at the time, we couldn’t have afforded this resort, so it turned out to be the happiest mistake).
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The above shots are from the first morning we got there. We ordered cappuccinos at the bar before we realized that they have their own cafe on-site which served more western-sized beverages (think Starbuck’s Grande or Tim’s Medium) in to-go cups, offering everything from frappuchinos to lattes to machiattos to americanos — and green tea, chamomile at night, etc. And the best part in a non-edible way was the cafe’s floors! *heart eyes emoji*
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My classy sister above. This was me every morning: never dawning more than a bathing suit cover-up with a double espresso con leche in hand en route to the breakfast buffet at 9:45, right before it closes.
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In all honesty, it was not a sight-seeing vacation, rather a beached-whale type vacation — which was much needed on all our parts. We ate a lot, talked a ton, and relaxed even more. Judging by our skin, these next few shots were from our first few days.
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In the photos above, you’ll see this new spa-pool area that a lot of people didn’t know about. We often claimed it for the day and enjoyed it just us three. We’d bring our own music on a bluetooth speaker and either swim or sleep in the cabanas. Those four corridors on the top left were showers: one was mist, one was a cedar bucket that you could dump on yourself, and others were rain shower or normal. It was magical.
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Back inside, the lobby and piano bar were also super tastefully done. Still resort-colourful like you’d expect, but paired with awesome pieces and beautiful finishings (always on-point floors). See what I mean below (note the giant mint-green iron bird cage surrounded by pink leather upholstered seating):
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The apartments which contained the rooms were also pretty. Here’s some of the grounds:
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Below are some photos we took of each other and got randoms to take of us on the beach on our first night during sunset. Shenanigans were had as you can see.
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One evening, on a particularly clear night, we watched the sunset while playing fetch with a local dog on the beach and it was magic.
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So far, it seems we relaxed beach or pool-side and watched sunsets, which is very true. But one day, we actually left the resort to take a day-trip to downtown Varadero and enjoyed the local parks, streets and people.
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In this one park, Parque Josone, there was a massive Wes Andersen-looking bird house on stilts. So cool.
Back at the resort, we befriended a cat and named it Churro. She had just been spayed and had little tummy stitches. The resort took such good care of her, and the grounds staff always let us know where she was. When she was being taken for a post-op check-up, they let us know and let us say bye for the day so we were’t worried about her all afternoon. So sweet. She’d find us and just cuddle. She even snuck into our room once (“by accident”)…
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I tried taking some selfies, but I look so gloomy, gosh darn-it. Imagine I’m happy on the inside, but my face is just it relaxed Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
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Or photos just helped drive home how much I didn’t care in a good way about so much as getting dressed (see how my shoes are “put on” below). In related new, me and my sisters had a laugh talking about misused quotation marks and how hilarious they make sentences. Also, inside-jokes galore, which is a great takeaway from sister-trips, no?
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In summation, I think I took the most photos of us three, and it still omits so many moments and places, sooooo we’ll just have to go back, but here’s a summation of some hightlights for me: a day-trip we took to the city of Varadero (our most active day indeed, haha); playing fetch with a local dog on the beach at sunset — and all sunsets for that matter; Mansuko, the on-site a la carte Japanese restaurant; walking the resort at night with my sisters, a bluetooth speaker in one hand, a pina colada in another; the oodles of card games and shenanigans we played; the random pals we made each day; people watching; the resort cafe and their gorgeous floors and divine double espresso con leches; did I say people watching yet?; their BREAD (who knew?!); the days we got to claim the smaller spa-pool all to ourselves; same goes for cabanas; the weather, obviously; getting to read an entire book for the first time in a year (sadness and shame); and so much more!
The first full day I was back on Canadian soil, Shawn just missed me too much not to propose Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. In all seriousness though, I could not be happier to be marrying my best friend, finally.
I shared a few photos of the moment on Instagram, but I’ll leave most of the gushy, cheesy details between us (save for these couple photos before I launch into another set of professionally-shot photos Shawn took of my the other day to test some new gear he bought recently).
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Photo above: the crew of tight-knit family and pals who helped Shawn organize the surprise. And of course, little Pipes was part of it, too.
I’m sure I’ll be sharing more about the process of planning a wedding as I go, but one thing at a time people! No, we don’t have a date or anything — just a few ideas, but nothing more than dreams right now — so sit tight for that!
In the meanwhile, as I mentioned, Shawn bought some new gear recently and one night this week, we decided to test it out. Keep in mind these photos are all taken in our basement with a single light source. Shawn‘s just that good. Also note my tan — I impressed even myself.
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Then I turned the camera on Shawn to snap these next few. I by no means am a professional photographer, but I really love how these turned out!
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Spot me sniffing roses, dishing out some design advice, and spilling some harsh (but honest) truths to the four talented teams, alongside Colin and Justin and host Dave Salmoni. As described by the network, in this episode,
Teams tackle their master bedrooms with only 24 hours on the clock. Courtney and Tyler, the only team without a win, decide to take bold risks to impress the judges, while front-runners Shelley and Alex hope to continue their winning ways. Armed with only paint and tape, teams are asked to create a focal wall where creativity is the name of the game. Sabrina Smelko (illustrator, designer, blogger, and editor) is the guest judge.
What a close call this one was! It honestly took us more than just a hot minute to make a final choice (I think we ran over an hour discussing), but I’m glad Kim and Harry took it home — err, to Cuba ;). All of the rooms were well-done and I was genuinely impressed with some of the craftsmanship for 48 hours, but theirs was my particular favorite.
In the end, who the heck wins?! I have to admit even I don’t know! I can’t wait to see it all unfold as the competition enters past the half-way mark.
Happy watching! In the meanwhile, here’s more behind-the-scenes photos from the day (that I didn’t share in my original post).
xo, Sabrina
PS: For those who asked, my top is from Zara, my knit cardigan is from Joe Fresh, and my shoes are super-old from Urban Outfitters.
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Lately, I’ve been busy executing a bunch of quick-turnaround illustrations for an agency in Toronto, continuing my ongoing design/strategy/consulting work for Freshbooks, and tacking a few small-scale home renovation projects.
Sprinkled in with all of that has been plenty of gardening, dog walking, wardrobe re-vamping, and booting around Toronto, meeting up with cool people and perusing shops (which is where I shot the feature image — taken an Anthropologie on Queen West).
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One of the things I checked off my to-do list was getting my engagement ring (handmade by Anouk using a conflict free Canadian diamond) re-sized. I also couldn’t help but say yes to this these two bracelets from The Vault in Milton. I’ve yet to meet a pink I didn’t like.
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In addition to random accessories, I’ve realized lately how much of my current wardrobe is made up of pieces I’m unwilling to wear, or downright hate. Most of what I own is either pajama-esque or resembles a chunky sweater. Every event I’ve gone to lately has begun with me at home struggling to find something appropriate. Pants and dresses, I have a decent collection, but man, I do not own any good shirts or shoes. The problem is, I hate the physical act of shopping — I’d much rather online shop and return the thing if I don’t like it, so The Bay has been my hero lately. I have no clue when they began offering free shipping to your door step within a few days, but I’m loving it.
I almost bought these Lotta Clogs from Free People instead, but they were nearly double the price and I much rather liked the black leather and hammer-head look. I feel like I can transition into fall no problem in these.
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I also snatched up this striped linen one-piece pant-suit from Winners (and I also found a new favorite lip colour and applicator: L’Oreal’s Le Matte in MATTE FOR ME 100).
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In less pretty news, I started a new project around the house: transforming my stairwell from a hellish hallway that is comprised of old, ugly blue carpeting and a wallpapered lifestyle border featuring golden retrievers and cobblestone walkways (yes, super weird), to anything but. Mere hours ago, I ripped the carpet out myself and I’ll spend the remainder of the weekend removing the staples and nails before priming and painting them to prepare for the cream-coloured carpet runner that’s being installed on Wednesday.
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Ew. I shared some of the process on Snapchat (SabrinaSmelko) if you’re interested! Or screen-shot my snapcode below:
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In other home reno news, I also am in the midst of transforming my backyard patio into a space that’s pretty and relaxing. I’m going to be doing a complete before and after post and reveal in a month or so, but in the meanwhile, here’s some sneak photo of my interlock patio that was installed a few weeks back using Rosebel slabs (by Permacon in beige), installed by Duralock.
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Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
And last but certainly not least, how adorable is this subway tile and wallpaper combo?
Full disclosure: I have been guilty of approaching my work and career with a utilitarian mindset for years, and it’s finally run its course.
And as a result, my portfolio is almost entirely made up of images created to satisfy a stiff brief. These images are strange to me. And these images don’t bring me joy.
And hey, by no means do I think my life as a creative professional should be — at all times — fun, enjoyable and satisfying. I will still be taking on clients to pay the bills, however, I shouldn’t look at my body of work and wonder where where my voice is and what my goal is. Balance, indeed, would be nice. (I know I’m being harsh on myself, but trust me, this is going somewhere good.)
For years, I’ve been great at being a business woman who happens to inject some creativity into the mix, finishing every single job I’ve ever been hired for before the deadline, and sometimes with two versions of the final. I have been quick to reply to (most) emails, polite when dealing with quotes and invoices, and quick to answer phone calls at any time of day.
At the risk of sounding like a tool, I am fantastic at appeasing a brief. And this has made me more successful than I ever anticipated, which I am grateful for (it’s how I was able to buy a house, and renovate said house), but is it the end all and be all? Is it doable in the long-term? And more importantly, is it the work I crave? Is any of it indicative of what’s in my head; what I gab about to Shawn at night on the sofa; how I feel about the world? Is it meaningful to me? The answer is no. I’ve been able to satisfy this expressive itch on a tiny scale through this blog (hurray!) but I have yet to bring that passion and point of view into my art, and that’s a very silly and sad reality.
Before I go on, I should clarify that I didn’t not enjoy creating the work in my portfolio per se — perhaps I’m a glutton for punishment, but there’s something sickly satisfying about working on a deadline and satisfying a client’s need for a colour change — but that doesn’t mean it’s the work I’d be happy doing for the rest of my life — or even the work I’m meant to do. Let’s face it: I get this work because I’m available. I get it because there’s an itch on someone else’s end that I’m chosen to scratch. Notice that this process never takes into account my itches. Sure, sometimes a client lets me have some creative liberty, but the reality is, it’s always freedom on a leash and often comes with strings attached (you go one step too far, and you’re asked to reign it in).
Frankly, I’m employed to pick up my pencil when someone else tells me to, and I’ve forgotten to pick it up for myself.
I’ve always had big ideas that I squash because I am one person, or simply because it’s impractical. I’m quick to say, “it’s probably been done before,” only to discover that I can’t find something quite like it anywhere. I’m quick to throw myself into a commercial artist box because there’s always a portrait or a politician in need of drawing, and I weigh that against the frivolous or fleeting or subjective need for art.
Of course art is necessary, but as a (very) logical person who is sometimes too right brained, I’m quick to think, “why should I?” And this week the answer to that question hit me: because it would make me happy. Because I’d want to hang that drawing in my own home. And maybe, just maybe, if I would, someone else might want to, too.
And so, I’m embarking on a creative journey toward self-discovery. (Which, in less flowery terms, means that I’m halting some $$$ jobs to focus on my own personal practice. Rather than using my downtime to write articles for blogs for extra cash, I need to be investing in finding my voice again and doing things that make me happy. Mom, you’d be happy to know that I’m diving back into my paints.)
One of these newly sparked but very unsatisfied mediums that I’ll be exploring is interiors, a world that’s undoubtedly connected to art and design. Art influences fashion influences furniture influences art… And yet, up until recently, I haven’t figured out the right way to marry these worlds in a way that involves all of my skills, satisfies me creatively, and does justice to my point of view.
I often feel like I flip-flop between art exhibits, blogger events, and rubbing elbows with people in the home/interiors space, and while navigating the myriad worlds is my reality, I’ve had a hard time mobilizing all of that in a way that is accessible, pleases me, and is helpful — to myself and to others. At art events, I talk about technique and colour theory; at interior events, I chat about furniture and the layout and flow of a room; at blogger events, I gab about writing, clothes and brand collaborations. I like all of those things, and no one area takes away from the other, but it frustrates me that I haven’t simply tried to create things that merge all of my likes.
At the end of the day, I am the sum of my parts, and for too long I’ve let paid jobs rule my life and dictate the work I make, and it’s time to make some stuff that just makes me happy. The sketches I do for all of five minutes while I’m on a conference call with a client is something I should be spending days on.
So wish me luck as I try to connect the dots between my worlds and meditate on my skills. Om…
I got a lob! I rarely get my hair cut and choose to live with dead ends on the reg, but it was due time I get a healthy cut, so my blonde tips (which were as dry as hay) are gonezo! I hope it grows out a few inches by August (for a big reason I’ll share more about later), but it feels soooooooo good to be able to achieve a beach wave. Isn’t this boston terrier shirt also awesome (below)? I got it using a Groupon code way back, but you can buy it (or any other dog breed or animal for that matter) online at The Mountain.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Also, I’m loving SnapChat. It’s just fun as heck. If you like my blog, then you might like my more candid snap stories. Admittedly, it’s a lot of Piper, but here’s my snapcode or whatever it’s called!
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I bought this black steel pergola from Lowe’s which is amazing, but sadly, no longer available (which I’m not surprised by as it was a steal at $550). However awesome now, the box dimensions online read 11′ x 11′ or something nuts like that, so I got my dad’s employee to pick it up in a huge truck only to discover the box was actually 2′ x 5′. How embarrassed was that little box to be on this massive truck on the highway? It sounds hilarious, but it wasn’t so funny when you think of having to find or rent a big truck…
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I called to complain and asked that they change the dimensions online so others don’t run into the same problem or pay $75 for delivery only to discover they could’ve fit that bad boy in their SUV. Drama aside and a Saturday morning spent on hold aside, it was worth it, even after the three hours Shawn, my mom and me spent putting it together! It’s made a massive impact on our outdoor game, and will make for one hell of a backyard transformation reveal! (If you haven’t seen my hideous before photos, you’ve gotta. And then hop on over to see what I bought.)
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In continued outdoor news, I finally snapped a vague, angled photo of my side walkway because I’m curated and IG-y like that. Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. I shared the story on Instagram, but if you didn’t get it: This cost me far under $100 versus the almost $1,000 I was quoted by the place that did my patio. The whole area is 25 feet long, 2 feet wide, and rather than getting a solid patio installed, I opted to lay some stones I found at The Home Depot (that creepily matched my patio almost perfectly) ontop of existing screening from my old patio. Then I installed some black hard plastic edging (so stones wouldn’t fall into the grassy lawn and be all annoying) and filled it in with pea gravel (free from my dad). Et voila! Note the little annoying weed poking out of the corner. Yup. I may be a home-improvement nut, but that don’t mean my lawn is weed-free. Ugh.
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I’ve also been finishing a tiny remodel of our spare bedroom, transforming it from a giant mess to a smaller mess. Haha, AKA I’m going to use as a giant walk-in closet and store-all room for random crap. Last week, it looked like this:
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I’ve since painted it (just using leftover off-white paint from my kitchen/living area, so nothing crazy exciting) but it already comes in super-handy! I get dressed and put my makeup on in this room. Feeling’ fancy. Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In other news, I’ve had some great mail days lately. I was surprised by the makers of Owl’s Brew who generously sent me 5 bottles of their tea blends made for cocktails. I cannot wait to try them all! No, I haven’t yet cracked any open: I’ve been going to yoga a ton lately, so the last thing I’m tempted to do is eat crappy or drink alcohol. I’m saving that for weekends or important occasions, but I’ll let you know how it tastes when I try ’em! Always love supporting small-batch makers and entrepreneurs. I believe you can buy them at Whole Foods in the GTA or online, of course.
In related health-concious news, I stopped putting sugar in my coffee after watching Sugar Coated on Netflix (a documentary about — you guessed it — sugar and the FDA and food industry in general). In its place I’ve been using Xylitol which tastes pretty darn close. I’m simply hoping won’t also be proven to kill me later. Any scientists or nutritionists out there, please weigh in and save me if I’m still killing myself, haha.
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In work news, I recently had the honor of illustrating Hazel McCallion for The Globe and Mail which was printed full-page on an inside cover. The piece will also be used to promote her position as chancellor of Sheridan College for all time! It was a pretty awesome job.
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I started up my YouTube again and have shared a few videos lately. I hope you take a mo’ to check out my latest YouTube videos. If you have a channel, what’ your name? Let’s add each other, or is it subscribe? Haha, trying to get more involved in this vlog community but have no idea where to find some fellow peers!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After a bout with Bloglovin’ (couldn’t claim my own blog, rawr!) I finally got it to work, but lost all my followers in the process Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. If you have Bloglovin’ and more importantly you actually like my blog, add me up, yo!
I must admit, it took a bit longer than I anticipated due to some last-minute changes to decor, but the last of my goodies are slated to arrive next week. A few days ago my Unison Home items arrived (pictured above), and it’s totally rewarding to see my mood board come to life! Given the week or so delay, I thought I’d give a bite-sized update on where I’m at — financially and physically.
The biggest expense by far was the patio which came in at around $6,000. (That 6k did include the removal of my old stones and concrete slab which I’m assuming ate up at least 25% of the overall fee.) I chose relatively cheap stone, but in the end, I covered 600 square feet, so that’s a cost of $10 per square foot which is pretty typical given they removed 400 square feet of crap as well. I was able to bite the cost bullet thanks to the huge cost savings from our kitchen renovation (which totalled around $7,000). I DIY a lot of aspects of my home, but the patio was one area I decided it was better to spend the money to get professionals to do it. Here’s another peek:
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Furniture and decor-wise, my IKEA ÄPPLARÖ furniture came to around $650, the Wayfair chairs and decor totalled around $500, and the tableware goods I got from Unison Home came to another $500 (although, a lot of the things from Wayfair and Unison Home are things I will use in my kitchen and dining room for a long time to come, not just a backyard expense.)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Edit: I forgot to add the cost of my pergola which was $520, so all in, I’m looking at $8,170 — wowza!
As much anxiety as that high number gives me, the home really needed, which brings me to the important point of considering the costs of these things in relation to making a great investment. If and when I go to rent or sell the home, I know that 6k for the patio will come back to me — and then some — and the furnishings and decor are things I’ll take with me to use and enjoy for years and years and years to come.
If you’d like a source list of all of the things I got, visit the bottom of this process post.
Yesterday, I woke up to Piper (equipped with a goopy eye-infection) nudging me with a smelly toy, spent my morning feeling ill and mushy from eating leftover pasta that had gone bad, and my afternoon skimming the clearance rack at Winners while donning an inside-out top. Life is good, albeit normal and arguably boring.
Since I graduated from Sheridan’s BAA program, I’ve been busting my butt working in an outlandish number of different industries — from advertising and publishing, to tech, film and entertainment. I’ve art directed campaigns, illustrated and designed everything from portraits to pillows to emojis, I’ve styled sets and photoshoots, I’ve become a writer/editor for blogs and magazines, and I’ve busted my butt to save for a home that I’ve since renovated (mostly by) myself.
At times, I’ve felt aimless in my hustle. At times, I’ve wondered what I’ve been working so hard for — where I’m heading. I spend most of my weekends working on either real or personal projects, and almost all of my days and nights at home, plugging away, writing, exploring new avenues, researching my butt off, and honing my skills. So to finally be able to have my hard work validated and my goals, realized, feel so so good. And to finally be able to share my good news publicly feels even better.
But first back to yesterday: I’m in Winners cashing out with hand-soap and a t-shirt found on clearance when my phone starts buzzing. The press release from Corus Entertainment went live — the one that announced HGTV Canada’s two brand new shows that are in production, one of which I’ll be hosting alongside Sebastian Clovis (!!!). Yes — me… On TV!
Since the start of this year, I’ve been pursuing this practically full-time in secret. I’ve had to say yes to a lot of scary things I’ve never faced before, and I also had to say no to some great things (such as teaching design again at Sheridan, as well as various, perfectly-great freelance jobs).
I’ve made the choice to follow my gut and have held onto the instinct that, sometimes, the scariest things and most outlandish turns your life and career take are the ones you should pursue. And this is where it led me.
It’s been a very wild and serendipitous ride to get here, to say the least, and I’m humbled and thankful to be given this opportunity (one that longwindedly started last October, when I was asked to hop aboard as a guest judge on Game of Homes). And I can’t wait to get going on this journey!
So if anyone reading this is thinking, “when will my hustling pay off?” or wondering what they’re working towards, or if you’re simply feeling aimless in your efforts, know it just takes one day — one person to notice you — to have your life turn around. So hang in there and don’t give up! Even on the days when it’s been a good while since you’ve made even a penny and you’re tired of waiting, keep practicing patience, continue making connections, and know that if you’re working hard toward something good, it’ll likely end good.
For more information on the show, here’s a snippet from the press release:
In the upbeat new series Save My Reno (14×30), cash-conscious homeowners finally catch a break when Sebastian Clovis, the savvy contractor with contagious energy, and Sabrina Smelko, the resourceful DIY designer, toss out overpriced reno quotes and make dreams come true with a slashed budget and spectacular renovation. Sebastian and Sabrina save by putting homeowners to work and hunting for salvaged goods. Fresh off an appearance as a guest judge on an episode of W Network’s Game of Homes, Sabrina is a wiz at finding restored pieces at great prices while creating amazing designs and crafted items. Sebastian is the master at smart spends for breakout builds and custom surprises. Together, they give homeowners the reno they want on a budget they can afford. Produced by Great Pacific Television and developed in association with Corus Entertainment, Save My Reno is currently slated to premiere in Spring 2017.
(And I hope you take the time to read the full press release here.)
ALSO, if you’d like to hop aboard and be on the show, we’re currently casting homeowners in the GTA! Have a gander at the casting call here and hopefully I’ll see you soon!
I’m sure we can all agree that being fit and good to yourself and your body should be a way of life, not a seasonal habit, but after going through home renos, having a vague idea of where my career was headed (eventually, it led here), raising an energetic puppy, the trap, err routine, of working from home, and surviving winter (where comfort food and being a lazy lump on a log is the name of the game), I didn’t feel like, or have the *time* to work out as much as I’d have liked to. And for me, when I don’t work out, I don’t care as much about eating super-well.
So for these past few months, I’ve been giving a bigger priority to my overall fitness and health.
I should qualify this by letting you in on the general workout and food regime I lived by for the past year.
Physical activity:
2-3x per week I did yoga
Everyday I walked 3-5k with Piper
Food:
Breakfast: Usually just coffee as I’d sleep until 9am and just wait to have an early lunch.
Lunch: Depending on if I had breakfast, I’d either make eggs and toast, a big salad, a turkey sandwich, or leftovers from the dinner before.
Dinner: anything and everything home made.
Snacks: Mostly chips or gummy candy every night.
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Admittedly, I was still pretty healthy, but I couldn’t remember the last time I had put any kind of good stress on my body: the kind of stress that causes your lungs to huff and puff; your legs to give out; your heart to race. And little by little, because I was forgoing food before noon only to jam it all it after 5pm, I felt more sluggish.
Superficially, nothing really changed, but I didn’t feel as good on the inside (a contributing factor likely bing that at night, I was less prone to opt for yogurt and berries, and more inclined to reach for chips). So it was time to kibosh that feeling.
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It’s so easy to fall into the same routine — which goes for our diet and physical bodies as well. When we’re kids, we sprint until we feel sick on the daily, we jump, we climb, we run up hills with vigor and energy and dart down without care — or even good form. It’s all so healthy for your cardiovascular system, and even though I walked and did yoga which many would consider working out enough, I couldn’t remember the last time I felt winded.
It’s also so easy to get caught up in etiquette, procedure, form, and culture. We often put more emphasis on our fitness attire than we do on just sweating it out ’til you ain’t looking so pretty.
So I decided to get kid-like again and for the past month or two, I’ve been shaking up my routine with some plyometrics and jump-style training (think burpees, jumping jacks, and some weighted moves) inspired by Kayla Itsines, Jillian Michaels, and — yes — Don, the trainer responsible for kicking the Kardashian’s butts (which they share on SnapChat). No shame in my inspiration game!
So what does this look like, exactly? Here’s a breakdown of my workout and food regime:
Physical activity:
4x per week, I do a Jillian Michaels‘ Body Revolution workout. AND IT HAS KICKED MY ASS. I don’t have cables however, so I’d say for two out of every 10 moves, I just do my own thing.
Everyday I walk 3-5k with Piper and Shawn.
1x per week I do yoga.
In short, I cut yoga by a class or two a week and subbed in four Jillian Michaels workouts to the mix.
During the first week, I was shocked by how quick I became winded. Could I really not do 25 burpees without giving up all form and energy? In my mind, I thought I could handle it, no problem, but I was unpleasantly surprised to learn that my fast-twitch muscles were nowhere near as in-shape as I believed.
But then I discovered I had made a rather air-headed accident: I did the classes for weeks 1-10 in ten days rather than 10 weeks. I was wondering why each day got significantly harder until I realized that I did week one’s class on day one, week two’s classes on day two, and so on, rather than doing each week’s classes for a week as intended (duh). But hey, if you want to get hardcore with it and want to get fit super-quick, it totally worked! Even then, though, mistake corrected, my ass is still getting proper kicked.
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I think I’ve kept it up for so long (whereas I normally get bored or unmotivated with some routines) because it’s such an easy and fast commitment. Each class is 28 minutes long (about 10 of which is dedicated to warming up and cooling down) and each class targets a different muscles with a new move so you don’t get bored or too sore in just one area.
I love that, in under an hour, I can get in my workout and a shower and be done with it.
I also think that being able to do the workouts in the comfort of my own home is a plus: I end up going a lot harder (and consequently get the most sweaty) without people watching, and I can get away with wearing the same top and shorts for more than one workout because WHO’S HERE TO JUDGE. (There’s nothing more annoying that having to wash 4+ tops and 4+ bottoms per week when you go to the gym. It’s such a waste and so hard on the fabric and elasticity of your beloved workout attire.) I also enjoy that I can grunt and scream freely when necessary to push through.
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Food:
Breakfast: Coffee (with xylitol) and either Yogurt with berries and granola, an omelette with veggies and sausage, or a bowl of cereal.
Lunch: A big salad, a turkey sandwich, or leftovers from the dinner before.
Mid-day Snack: I now get hungry mid-day (around 2-3pm) so I usually have a handful of nuts, a smoothie, or even sometimes some chips or candy.
Dinner: Anything and everything home made.
Night Snack: Either nothing at all, or a controlled amount of junk Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Before I sign off and publish this post, I do want to share a few nuggets of advice:
If the urge or feeling or willingness to work out strikes, take advantage of it! Because it will pass — and if you wait too long, you’re likely to lose motivation (much like inspiration). For a lot of people, a schedule is motivating, but for me, I function best when I leave it open-ended and choose to do it when the feeling hits me. Obviously, you can’t strike when the iron’s hot if you’re at work, or at the store, but at the very least, right when you get home, do it!
Even if you’ve lost motivation by then, commit to working out for two minutes. After that, if you want to stop then, give yourself permission to, but more likely than not, if you get a few minutes in, you have a better shot of getting to a state of mind where you’ll just continue. At least that works for me! Some days, I think, “Okay, I’m not feeling it. I’m only going to do 10 minutes of the tape,” and I end up doing the whole thing every single time.
Invest in some good, grippy-bottom running shoes and activewear that you’ll be confirmable in (and yes, my favorite pair are the black and white Nike’s in a men’s version — way more comfortable to me). Good workout gear and clothing is so necessary if you’re doing any kind of work-out where you’re jumping, so I’ve linked to some things I love below:
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So if you’re feeling motivated to get your butt in gear, shut your laptop off, put your phone down, and get sweating! Work out like no one’s watching.
For the past few days, I’ve been undergoing the arduous task of individually editing every single one of my blog posts since 2014.
Yes, it was a major pain in the butt. But it also forced me to reflect on how far I’ve come in the last two years — on many fronts.
While looking through old posts, I could have easily let embarrassment overcome me: some of my writing was down-right awful, the thoughts I felt were worthy of sharing and how I crafted them were steeped in inexperience, some of my earlier “renovations” were laughable considering how much I thought they were up there with Mt. Everest, and the foul language I used willy-nilly was… okay, it was kind of funny.
And along with embarrassment came surprise. I thought what? I considered that cool? And I don’t mean these questions to come across as self-judgments, but rather, these thoughts made me appreciate the person I am today more.
Reading old posts may have been as cringe-worthy as listening to a recording of your own voice, but it was also humbling and rewarding. A sense of pride and accomplishment came over me as I waded through the posts: I’ve become a far better writer; I’ve gained new skills that were clearly not in place years ago; and my knowledge and wisdom has grown immensely.
Just like Facebook’s memories feature, every photo and anecdote I had published in my recent past left me astounded by how far away those moments felt; how much I’ve experienced in between.
It’s so easy to think with the mind you have today and judge yourself for not doing or dropping certain things sooner.
Or wonder why that thing you’re chasing after isn’t in your grasp yet. And it’s probably because while it’s been on your mind for quite some time, perhaps it hasn’t been out there in the universe for very long.
Looking through my posts, I was also shocked to find little to no evidence of my wishes, my hopes, and my dreams considering how heavy they were on my mind. They were hidden in unclear sentences and barely uttered despite being persistently present and top of mind. And you don’t get what you don’t ask for, so go ahead and ask.
It also presented those things that still stand and hold their own to me in a new light. It echoed and reaffirmed some things, which I found just as helpful.
Insight and hindsight are just as valuable as foresight.
These memories also reminded me that all good things take time. It’s so easy to become frustrated with life and ask yourself, why aren’t I there yet? I still do it all the time, too, but sweetness, look at how far you’ve come.
Our brains are a tricky thing. A thing that has firm blinders in place in regards to the past. Your state of mind from yesteryear is impossible to return to, making it so easy to forget where you came from.
We are so often forgetful of the past, dismissive of the present, and impatient about the future.
So take a moment to remember where you were a year ago, two years ago, or five. You’ve changed, right? Now imagine where you’ll be in another one, two, five years.
Be kinder to yourself, have some patience, and give thanks to your little brain — because it really ain’t so little. You’ve come a long, long way, champ.
Photography by Gundula Blumi
PS: For anyone wondering why I had to edit all of my blog posts, it was because all of the images from my posts were embedded and referenced from my old blog (and the domain expires in a few weeks), so I had to download my old blog’s database and re-upload every single broken image (a fun time I shared on SnapChat: SabrinaSmelko). Once again, a firm reminder of how much I’ve grown and evolved since my previous two blogs. And in case I needed to learn any more lessons from this fiasco, it also taught me to never, ever take shortcuts when it comes to websites, and to always give your files relevant names rather than keeping them as “screen-shot-xxx”.
There’s a bunch of moving parts in my life right now.
As I enter filming for HGTVs Save My Reno, I’ll be taking a leave from Design*Sponge as well as most freelance design projects. Conversely, the show is ramping up quickly. I’ve spent the last few days and weeks in Toronto on-and-off in meetings (where the image above was taken) as we prep for filming in t-minus two weeks (ahh, so excited)! Aren’t these doors at the Thunderbird offices a beaut?
Elsewhere in my life, I figured I’d spill the beans on what I’m up to, things I like lately, and what my life looks like at the mo’:
1. I’ve been paying more attention to my diet.
As someone who has a perpetual sore stomach and digestive sensitivities, it’s funny that I’ve never bothered to pay much attention to what I eat and when — and how that makes me feel. Despite eating a healthy diet overall, there are definitely things I eat too much of (cruciferous veggies, I’m looking at you) and things I rarely eat (fruit), so balancing that out vitamin and mineral-wise, eating a wider variety of foods, and timing meals better (even just waiting to have coffee until I’ve digested breakfast or lunch) is helping big-time.
It’s funny how rather than the regular carrots and hummus, swapping in some grainy cracker and cheese can actually be a healthier option sometimes. Too much of a good thing — even veggies — isn’t always good.
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I’ve found that an easy way to try new things is to make grain bowls. I always keep both cooked rice or quinoa in the fridge, as well as dressing ready to go. Then it’s as simple as tossing in whatever veggies and protein you have on-hand, and a ton of nuts and seeds. Pictured above is a re-creation of the California Bowl from Lola’s Kitchen using quinoa as a base for chicken, sundried tomatoes, kale, and toasted nuts and seeds (it’s missing avocado — mine weren’t ripe in time). I also pin recipes all the time, so check them out on my Pinterest.
Sidetone perk: Part of this new regime is taking fish oils and B12 supplements, and holy cow, my nails are suddenly growing faster than I can keep up with.
I updated the SHOP section of my website to include: 1) a direct link to a post where you can shop my entire house, 2) a curated furniture and home decor shop page which I’ll update regularly with my favorite finds (pictured above), and 3) the landing page to show my own creations. I also want to share that my better half opened a Society6 shop! Have a browse. Stay a while.
3. I’m finally fulfilling my pink bathroom dreams.
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When I first moved into my home just over two years ago, I did a quick, aesthetic makeover. Nothing drastic — I simply removed the wallpaper and gave it a fresh coat of paint using a robin’s egg blue hue I found at my local Re-Store for $5. But like I did with my kitchen and bedroom, I’m tempted to repeat in the bathroom — that is, give it a second, more thoughtful makeover (whereas the first iteration was rushed — and, admittedly, less informed).
So, after two years of living in a robins egg blue bathroom (which has been pretty, but I’m addicted to change), it was time to shake things up. This was actually spawned on by the need for a new shower curtain: Shawn accidentally got ink on it, and it prompted me to shop around to find something more interesting than waffle-textured white, and that’s when I stumbled across this beauty (pictured below) which I just couldn’t resist.
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It’s currently én route to my house, and, once it’s here, I’ll colour match the lighter hue of pink and paint my walls with it! Now, before I made a final paint decision, I did mock up a few options (below), so feel free to laugh at ’em with me:
Option 1: Pink via the shower curtain.
This is what leaving my walls as-is would look like, and I have to say, it’s risky and could border on primary school, but I kind of like the boldness of both hues.
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Option 2: Paint the walls a soft blush and toss in a pink shower curtain in the same hue.
I think I like this option the best, but I want to know your thoughts, so please comment below with your vote. I think an even lighter pink on the walls is called for.
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Option 3: Paint the walls soft grey, the ceiling a light blush, and throw in a pink shower curtain.
This one, while tempting, seems the least viable in my case. While it’s a fun thought, I think that finding a white/grey for the walls will be tough because my tiles are an off-white creamy tone, so it might a) look washed-out, or b) make either the walls or tile look yellow or stained which is gross.
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I’m almost as excited for this mini-makeover as I was for my kitchen. With bathrooms, you can really go full Monty and colour-nuts, so I’m thrilled to be able to unleash some cotton candy on this B!
4. I’m getting a whole new wardrobe!
This might be the most exciting thing to happen to me — aside from actually getting a TV show, but this arguably goes hand-in-hand.
For far too long, I’ve been guilty of wearing PJs, but as a freelancer who works from home, why would I buy a single stitch of nice clothing? That combined with the fact that our closet and clothing storage game was weak up until now, clothing was never a huge priority for me. But seeing as I’ll be on TV and can’t wear sweats alllllll the time, I’m thrilled to be working with a stylist (the talented Katie Tobin who styles for E!, MTV Canada, and MUCH) who will be helping me source new clothes and shoes.
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Above is my new black garment rack from Wayfair, and as you can see, this is all I have in terms of “nice” clothes, so I’m outlandishly pumped to fill it up. (And yes, I feel extremely spoiled and lucky.) The dandelion jumper and blush trench are from Topshop, the floral slip dress is from Winners, the blush jumpsuit and polka-dot dress are from ASOS. Shop them, similar items, and items on my wish list below:
This weekend is my final weekend before my life takes a new turn — a turn I’ve been anxiously waiting for and anticipating since early 2016.
As I write this, I’m sitting in my backyard listening to the hiss of the cicadas, Piper lying on the grass at my side, and soaking it all in. I’m days away from filming for HGTV Canada. Oh, how I did not see that coming, but oh, how sweet it is!
As exciting as it is, it goes without saying that ignorance, in this case, is surely not bliss. As much as I anticipate that this change will bring opportunity, laughs, joy, it’s also bound to bring stress, exhaustion and challenge. But knowledge is power, and accepting this, I’m just about as prepared and excited as one can be.
Initially, this post was oh-so long and I wrote paragraphs on paragraphs, but in the end, it simply boiled down to wanting to say thank you.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me, rooted for me, and especially those whom smiled and shrugged at the news before adding, “It was just a matter of time — you’ve totally got this.” Thanks to the producers and talented array of people behind-the-scenes who have put their heart and soul into this. Thank you to my stylist who’s helping make me look and feel my best. To Shawn, my fiancé, I don’t even know where to begin, you inspire me to strive for more and push out of my comfort zone. To my amazing family and friends, and even to all those internet pals out there whom comment on and like my posts. Every nice comment that’s been published on my blog and Instagram, every high five I’ve received, I remember them all, and they’ve all added up in tiny ways to bring me confidence.
Even the smallest compliments and gestures of support go a long way — so if you can do one thing today, this weekend, this month, tell someone you look up to or think is talented that you look up to them and/or think they’re talented! I think we all assume those we admire have people tell them how great they are all the time, but you’d be surprised how often these people never hear it. Don’t just assume they’ve heard it before, because I’m telling you, even tiny shows of support mean a lot.
So to everyone who believed in me even when I didn’t, I owe you my sincerest gratitude because, without you, I would not be where I am today. And I am so so so ready for this chapter of my life to officially start. Okay, time to go shave my legs, throw mayo in my hair, relax with Piper in my garden, and get camera ready! Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I’ve gone from being a freelance homebody that barely left home to essentially becoming a nomad; living out of a bag, driving across the GTA from place to place, leaving a trail of granola bar crumbs, drywall dust, and hairspray. And actually wearing shoes on the reg — this, admittedly, is new for me. (In the photo above, I’m donning Aldo’s Sergioa heels while tile sourcing.)
In essence, my life at the moment is go go go, 24/7 — and I’m relieved to discover that I love it. I didn’t come from a background in TV, and I didn’t pursue this path, so there was always a fear in the back of my brain that perhaps I wouldn’t enjoy the work or the lifestyle, but I’m so happy to say that I’m really liking it. (For anyone completely lost on what I’m talking about, read this post fist.)
I’m constantly meeting new people (who become pals), and touring myriad homes that scream with potential. It’s inspiring, and I feel alive. Prior, I was at home all day in front of a laptop, save for the odd time I had to meet a client in person, so to be out and about is a welcome change.
There have been so many moments over the past few weeks I’ve been itching to share, but I’ve either been so flippin’ busy without a second to spare, or I’ve been sworn to secrecy Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view. So while I can’t share photos of the spaces or places or any specifics about what I’ve been working on, I can give you some sneak peeks into my life as of late.
Enjoy!
x, S
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I adore my makeup artist and hair warrior, Lynne Ryan — although, she’s so much more than that. It’s all the little things she does that make my day better, like her care when it comes to water bottle labeling and her straw-lid-hole technique. My top is from Ted Baker, and the hoops are from Aldo.
Unfortunately, these Serling cage heel loafers are sold out nearly everywhere, but fingers crossed they go back in stock because they are mint and so comfy!
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Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I’m fully aware of how late I am to the nail game, but I never had (a reason to have) nice nails until now, so my phone is half photos of my hands. Make fun of me all you want, but I can hardly believe it, hahaha. Amateur tip: I’ve found that glitter polish lasts the longest because when it chips, you can still go another week until it’s noticeable. The ring set is from Aldo.
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In between filming, I managed to sneak off to this year’s BlogPodium which took place in St. James Cathedral centre. Shawn and I prepared a talk about all things video — from technical info and story-telling techniques to social strategy and insider secrets. These two photos are the only one’s I took that day because we were too busy meeting and chatting with interesting people and brands. Isn’t that waterfall countertop so dreamy?
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On the home front, my monstera deliciosa has become huge in my absence! If you want your green goodies to thrive, check out my houseplant care post.
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Super-normal. Also, overalls have become a functional staple.
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A brick-lovers dream! Tune in next spring to see it all Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Of all of the pages and pages of posts I’ve shared over the years, the one that still gets the most reads and comments is the post I shared about raising our pup, Piper.
People far and wide have emailed me asking about her temperament, how I think she’d fare with young kids, etc., so as Pipes heads into adulthood, I thought I’d share an update on my little body guard and BFF.
To start, I thought I’d share photos of what her mom and pops looked like:
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We chose Piper from a litter of four pups from a farm up in Northern Ontario. We always joke about how we “saved” her from a life of hard work herding cattle — the lucky little spoiled bum! She’s now a few months away from turning two and she’s maxed out at 32 lbs which is oddly tiny for the breed — but her parents are heeler collie mixes too, so who knows how that worked itself out.
(The remaining photos are of Piper from 10 weeks, to now.)
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Stats aside, before I go on to describe her tendencies, I think y’all have to know one thing: just how darn intelligent this breed is. And why I say this first is because there are so many sites out there that box them in as good family pets, bad family pets, great for single people, bad for single people, good for first time pup-owners, bad for first time pup-owners, and I have to just say to heck with most of that.
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These dogs are smart.
You can train them to do almost anything, so anyone who claims they’re not meant for this person or that family doesn’t do these pups justice. Every breed has its pros and cons, so if you aren’t willing to deal with or combat one behavior or another, maybe getting a dog isn’t a good idea.
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We’ve taught Piper how to back up to let people pass her, we’ve taught her not to bite or nip people, to leave her food or treats until we give her the go-ahead, and most importantly, how to be gentle if she’s grabbing something from your hand. I’ve never owned a dog before, and you could say that I chose a hell of a breed to raise as my first, but Piper has taught me that how they turn out is mostly at the hands of your handling and training of them. Of course, each pup has its own quirky personality, but if you’re strict and diligent when training and able to take on the alpha dog role, they can be groomed for any family.
Case in point: this weekend. My entire family spent a few days at a cottage, and at any given time, some people were on the dock, some by the lake house, some up by the cottage, and she could be found running back and forth between all of the groups, keeping everyone corralled. If someone were to leave, she was immediately at attention and would alert the rest of the gang.
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She’s the perfect mix of guard dog and silly goof. In fact, one of her favorite people to visit is the neighbors young son who’s no taller than her when she’s standing. Admittedly, she’s too protective — to the point where if I jump rope, or use a chair to reach something high, or if a car rolls into the driveway that she doesn’t recognize, she gets upset and barks. It may be annoying at times, especially because it’s never been justified as something actually dangerous, but the fact that she’s so dutiful in her protection of us is sweet.
And then when she’s not on alert at her post, she’s the goofiest and most fun-loving dog there ever was. All she wants to do is play, and while she loves rough-housing, she’d never hurt you. The moment your hand finds its way in her mouth and you blurt out “gentle” or “no biting”, she immediately stops and licks. And yet, she can also be the meekest, shiest girl of all time.
In that post I shared about raising her, I mentioned how aggressive and assertive she was as a puppy, but once we stood our ground and taught her that we were alpha, she fell into place and there are times when all it takes is a stern “come here” for her to come walking over, ears down, eyes on you. When she knows it’s serious, she listens. Of course, when it’s not important, or when she knows it’s not consequential, she’ll be a little shit and nanna-nanna-boo-boo, but when it counts, she’s respectful.
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Last but not least, as she’s matured through puppy-hood, she’s also become exponentially more cuddly. In the first year of her life, there was no hope of snuggles. She did not care to be up against you, or even pet that much for that matter. I had relented to the fact that she just wasn’t a cuddly dog, and I became okay with it. But now, there are times when I can’t get her off my lap! I think as she’s grown and come to learn that we’re her people and her safe place, she’s become comfortable surrendering and relaxing with us. I even have to kick her off the bed some nights because she’s too close!
I may be biased, but the mix of a heeler and collie is adorable and combines intelligence and energy with extreme loyalty and tons of personality. She’s become such a part of our lives, and neither myself nor Shawn can imagine a day or week without her. There’s just nothing like her welcoming and erratic kisses when you get home at the end of a long day! She’s a sweetheart, and was worth every frustrated tear I shed raising her.
Now, onto a few things that, at their worst, can be annoying:
She pulls when on a leash. We’ve tried training her to stick by our sides, and it works for a while, but it always comes back, but if that’s one of the few annoying things about her, I can handle it.
She has a tendency to get nervous and can be skittish. She takes a while to warm up to some people, and if we walk at night, she’s terrified the entire time.
She barks if people that she doesn’t recognize approach the house or ring the doorbell. I half-appreciate this one — she’s a great guard dog — but as you can imagine, it can be annoying at times.
That’s about it!
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As for things and products that have come in handy:
Her Kong! Fill it with big kibbles that don’t fall out when tipped and she’s occupied for 1-2 hours.
Her Puppia. Because she pulls, I’d rather not strangle her with her collar, so Puppia’s line of harnesses are ideal.
Her Tandem & Co. collar, leash, and food bowls. Made by hand in Montreal.
Charlee Bear treats. Pretty well the only treats we buy! Amazing for training and playing.
A no brainer for a high-energy dog, we adore Chuck It.
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So if you’re on the fence about getting a blue heeler, or blue heeler border collie mix, fret not, these are amazing dogs!
I can’t tell you the amount of people who’ve come up to me gushing over her and sharing stories about their own beloved heeler. It’s a mighty fine club to be a part of and I have no doubt I’ll be telling tales about Piper for decades to come.
So I’ll leave y’all with a few final words of advice for this amazing breed(s): if you’re strong, consistent, and you train well when young, you’ll have yourself a gem of a BFF! Feel free to comment with any questions Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
