Ava Grace's Closet: December 2013
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Monday, December 30, 2013

What I Wore : A little Sparkle

Maybe it's much too early in the game
Ah, but I thought I'd ask you just the same
What are you doing New Year's
New Year's Eve?

This is one of my very favourite songs. And what I think is the greatest voice of all time.
It always makes me smile + I still can't get through We've only just Begun without crying.
But today? Today is about sparkle.
One of my other favourite things. 








top - c/o everbuying.com | blazer - c/o everbuying.com | tulle skirt - c/o everbuying.com
bracelet - J. Crew | clutch - Banana Republic {not current : option}
shoes - Calvin Klein {no longer available : similar}
 The entire look {minus accessories + shoes} is via everbuying.com A new.to.me site that offers 
on-trend fashion for less.
Read : this entire look came in at about $50.
Definitely worth checking out.
Here's wishing each of you a little sparkle this New Year's Eve.

Disclosure: I received the above items at no charge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.

Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Wishing you a Merry Christmas

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Wishing each of you every joy of the season from our family to yours.
Merry Christmas.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Braving the Ice Storm : Introducing Aquaphor Healing Ointment + a Giveaway

Some of you may or may not have heard that here in Toronto, we have been dealt with an extremely nasty bout of inclement weather. 
Many are still without power including my dear brother + his family and for some, it may take as long as 72 hours to be restored. 
Praying for a speedy clean up and that everyone has a warm Christmas. 



the above pic is of my beloved birch tree. we're not sure if she will make it under the weight of all of the ice.
I thought it was appropriate to share a few photos alongside this review of a product MADE for this weather and anything Mother Nature may decide to throw our way. Bless her little heart. 
Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and the newly introduced Aquaphor Lip Repair, can heal your toughest of dry, chapped red skin problems. 
Believe me, we have put both to the test in these last few days.
The healing ointment is a must-have of Beyonce who claims to use it on skin, lips + even in her hair! 
I have not tried the latter but am seriously considering.
My oldest has quickly taken to the lip repair which she insists is amazing AND lasts all day. Good news for this mom who buys lip balm like it is going out of style.
Personally, I've been using the healing ointment exclusively on my own dry, rough elbows.
It has the consistency of a vaseline only not as sticky and is just amazing slathered on dry feet and layered with socks.
Smooth and silky by morning! 

Have you tried Aquaphor Healing Ointment? 
Enter now for your chance to win an Eat, Drink and #AquaphorIt  prize pack including a $50 Visa Gift Card.
Can you say January sales?


Open to residents of Canada + the U.S. 
Good Luck! 

Friday, December 20, 2013

Looking Back on What I Wore

I get asked quite often why I blog.
The answer is, I blog for me. 
I love it.
It gives me something that is all mine + it's an amazing creative outlet.
Outfit photos? 
I wrote about it here when I looked back at last year's What I Wore posts.
My reasons are still the same. 
And I'm still having just as much fun. 
Fun Facts
readers favourite : camel honeycomb sweater + black pants
most popular look on facebook : black + white chevron dress 
times I wore my mama's vintage : 4
most asked about pieces : striped midi skirt + black one piece jumpsuit
times I almost froze while taking photos : 3
look I didn't plan to post + readers loved : cream blouse + black jeans
instagram favourite : dove grey full length dress
times I wore sunglasses : 18
most commented on non-giveaway post : blue DVF vintage dress
times my neighbours wondered what the heck I was doing : 36
my personal favourite : grey silk dress, cream leather + metallic

Thank you for staying along on this journey! 
Happy it's the last weekend before Christmas Friday 

Linking this post up here.

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

What I Wore : The Henkaa Sakura Dress

Just like all of us, I often struggle with what to wear to the numerous holiday functions at this time of year.
From office parties in the daytime, to cocktail parties that are dressy but not "too dressy", to full out, full scale party.all.night New Year's galas. 
Could one dress really do it all? And keep me looking fabulous throughout?
You be the judge. 

Look 1 : the office party or daytime luncheon
dress {in all 3 looks} - c/o Henkaa
sweater - c/o MinkPink
 Look 2: the cocktail party
brooch - c/o Henkaa
sash - c/o Henkaa
bracelet - local boutique {similiar here}
Look 3: New Year's Eve gala 
necklace - c/o Style Lately 
bracelet - J. Crew {30% off!}
The Henkaa Sakura Dress transitions easily from day to night and from casual to all out done up in mere seconds. 
I love the dove grey shade as it works perfectly with items I already own.
And, the best part of all? One dress at $168.

Check out their website, here for a fun video showing you how to change up this dress. I may or may not have watched it about 10x. 

Linking up here:
Get Your Pretty On
Simply Lulu Style
Glamamom

Disclosure: I received a Henkaa dress at no charge from Lotus Leaf P.R. for the purpose of this review. All opinions are strictly my own. 

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Gifts for Everyone on your List and a Shopping Channel Giveaway

Sometimes, in the midst of all of the hustle and bustle, we forget what the true meaning of Christmas is.
Getting it done and keeping sane!
I kid. Sort of.
But seriously, wouldn't it be great to get all of your shopping done in one place? And even better, from the comfort of your own home?
Enter, The Shopping Channel.
A gift that is sure to please, for everyone on your Christmas list.


The Shopping Channel Gift Guide

For my amazing mother in law who does so much for us throughout the year, this stunning statement necklace by R.J. Graziano. $49.99

For my Ava Grace, this super-fun toddler camera by VTech. I mean, it's pink. $44.99

For Isabella, her own Clarisonic. For a lot of different reasons, mainly, so she will stop trying to steal mine. $175.00 {this is the Mia 2 + includes bonuses // great deal!}

For my sister in law, a bow tie bangle watch by Isaac Mizrahi Live! in her very favourite colour. She would love this. $89.99

For my mother, these ridiculously gorgeous Believe by Kristian Alfonso {Hope from Days!} earrings. $429.77

For Julian's teacher, who deserves this and more for putting up with 26 kids in her class this year, a perfume trio by  L'Occitane. $59.99

For Julian he is so NOT getting this but wants it more than he has probably wanted anything in his entire life the Playstation 3. Sigh. $419.99

For my husband {+ my brother!} these ah.mazing Ferrari Scuderia headphones. They're both huge F1 fans so these would surely be a hit. $259.99

For my dad, who we are all sure was a weather man in a former life, this National Geographic weather forecasting station. He would be smitten. And, he would probably be calling us with weather updates numerous times daily. $94.99

And lastly, if you're like me, then you always pick up a little somethin' somethin' for yourself. After all, Christmas shopping in your pj's can get exhausting.
I would choose this vision by Aimee Kestenberg. $229 Definitely a handbag designer to watch! 

Visit The Shopping Channel here and download the new mobile app now so you never miss a deal. Ontario residents can shop through December 20th for in time for Christmas delivery AND shipping is free on orders of $150+. 

The amazing folks at The Shopping Channel have graciously offered up a $100 gift card to their site!
This one is open to residents of Canada only.

Good luck! 

Friday, December 13, 2013

Introducing Brika + A Giveaway

I am so excited to introduce BRIKA to all of you today. 
This new to me site is chock full of inspiration; from the stories of unique artisans to the items themselves. 
I was in awe of the talent and the creativity. And pleasantly surprised by the pricing considering all of the time and effort put into every item; each a labour of love. 
I could easily shop just this site for each of my gal pals. 
Each item as unique as the women themselves.


Brika Gift Guide
1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

Brika Gift Guide
12 / 3 / 4 / 5

Brika Gift Guide
1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
For Val, my french beauty, a bow ring. She's all about ze funky jewels. 
For Monica, the scripted pillow. The sentiment perfectly describes her work with the girls in the Philippines. 
For Maria, the dreamy, silk smoked pink scarf from Israel. Perfect with her colouring. Plus she would let me borrow it. 
For Christina, a bright pink statement necklace. If you knew her, you would understand. Everything she owns is either this colour or turquoise. She's nothing if not fun. 
For Loretta, a rose gold chain ring. If anyone can pull this off, this fashionista can.
For Mary, ms. Ava's Godmother, beautiful linen place mats for her new house. I also don't think I could resist the three turtle doves. 
For Bev, a funky ipad case because she may or may not work for a certain brand who may or may not make said ipad. And because she's funky.
Lastly, for each and every one of them? Fatty Sunday pretzel sticks. Because I can.

UPDATE! : Contest is over. Our winner is Andrea Darst, comment #7!
BRIKA is giving one of my readers a chance to win a $25 gift card.
1. Visit BRIKA here and sign up (receive a $5 off code just for registering!)
 2. leave a comment on this post telling me what you might choose {and for who!} if you win

{Open to residents Canada + the U.S}
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Ends on December 23rd at 10 am.

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by BRIKA. All opinions are strictly my own.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Baby it's Cold Outside

We've been under quite a cold spell here in Toronto this week and it doesn't appear to be easing up anytime soon. 
We're talking -8  {-17 with the windchill} for the next week or so. 
When I asked the girls whether they wanted to get a little fresh air; it was a bit of a struggle to get them outdoors. Can't say I blame them.
Thank goodness for cute hats. 

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

What I Wore : Windowpane

I misplaced my camera remote and because it gets dark at basically, 4:30 {ugh} I was forced to ask my husband to take my photos this week.
I wish you could see the outtakes. 
I am either cut off on top, cut off on the bottom, have a car driving behind me in a fast blur, am mid-sentence or laughing maniacally. 
Note to self : pick up new remote THIS week. 

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Christmas Wish List '13 // Stocking Stuffers

My husband and I took our own stockings down years ago but this remains one of my favourite traditions. 
I cannot tell you how ridiculously excited they are about opening them every year. 
Maybe more so than any actual gift. 
And I'm equally excited about finding unique goodies to fill them with. 
Here are just a few of the items I know would {and will!} make the cut this year. 

Gift Guide 2013

For the kids 
1. Ms. Ava is obsessed with snow men. She wants to make one every single time we have even an inch of snowfall. I love the vintage look of this one but found it to be sadly, sold out everywhere. I did find a similar one at Macy's, here. $15.99
2. We are forever trying to encourage a love of reading. This Rudolph bookmark might just sell Julian. $6.50
3. Stuck on You has a crazy amount of ideal gifts and stocking stuffers for little ones. These pencils + pencil crayons were recently sent to Ava and she just can't get enough of them. They're triangular {!} and perfect for little hands. $14.95 here.

For mama
Funny, I almost felt like I was choosing my own here. Oh wait, I was. 
1. This expandable tote bag would be the perfect addition to my TWELVElittle diaper bag. I am forever forgetting my shopping bags at home. This would ensure I always had one ready. $45 {sign up for their newsletter to save 15%}
2. On the top of my new favourite things. This convertible color in lillium. I think it would look good on just about everyone + it gets bonus points for working double duty on lips AND cheeks. $33
3. If I don't receive one {I really want two!} of these incredibly beautiful snowflakes for my Pandora bracelet, I plan on buying them  it for myself. Simply stunning. $55

For dad
1. Who doesn't want a plaid scarf? At this price, pick one up for you + for him. Find it at Forever XXI, here $5 
2. I only recently saw The Great Gatsby and LOVED it. The movie, the music! Just amazing. I know my husband would love this soundtrack. At Walmart, $12. 
3. And lastly, Canadian readers, any of the exquisite line of chocolates and treats available at Chapters are superb. The sea salt caramels are my favourites {sold out on line} but these sound equally amazing + we're all suckers for peanut butter 'round these parts. $19.50

For your teen
1. My son asked for this cologne. MY SON ASKED FOR THIS COLOGNE. This in itself is a small miracle. This from a boy who just a short while ago I had to fight every morning just to comb his hair. I may buy him two. Abercrombie + Fitch, $77.
2. Obsessed. That is the only way to describe my feelings for these eos lip balms. They will be in all of my three's stockings. and I will steal them all. $2.95 
3. I just picked up this infinity scarf for myself on the weekend. It is navy blue which in and of itself is hard to find, it isn't itchy AND it is crazy warm. They also have it in a bright pink and grey. Adorable. $7 

What kind of things do you like to find in your stocking?

Winner of the Stuck on You giveaway is Kayla Britt. Congrats! I will email you. 

PS - Want a chance to win the fun TWELVElittle tote above? Enter our group giveaway here
Ends Thursday. 

Friday, December 6, 2013

Friday Fancies : Holiday Best + A Game of Tag

Let's rename today's post to "things I want in my dream closet" shall we? 
For party time, or any time. 

Party Perfect


1. Let's start with this fabulous statement necklace via Accessory Mercado. Glitzy without being overdone and just as perfect with jeans and a white t as it is with the pale pink perfection that is this {on sale!} dress. 

2. The ruffled, satin black number up front needs no words. It is incredible in every way, including it's price. By Marchesa, here

3. A pretty tulle skirt is what it will be about for me this holiday season. I can see it with a fluffy, fun knit {via TopShop here} or a bow-tied one, like this by Tory Burch {on sale!}. Black/Pink.
a note on these : I searched everywhere for the pink one above, sadly sold out or only available in the U.K. I may go with the black one which is a perfect midi-length and only $25 at TopShop. 

4. Isn't this pink bowed number the sweetest, softest looking clutch you've ever seen? I would love to add it to my collection. By Valentino, here. {option}

5. And last, but certainly not least, les shoes. I chose 4 that would take me from day to evening seamlessly. 

I was tagged recently by my sweet friend Andrea of Cous Cous and Cork Wedges and since it's been a long while since I played... 

Rules
Share 12 random facts about yourself. 
Answer the 12 questions.
Pass it on

Randomness x 12 
1. I love owls. 
2. I didn't start drinking coffee until I was in my late 20's. Now, I couldn't live without it. My only vice.
3. My other vice used to be diet coke but I gave that up. Sadly. 
4. I collect clutches, sunglasses and designer handbags. Not necessarily in that order.
5. I grew up in a predominantly Jewish Orthodox area. I am not Jewish. I know their traditions better than my own and could choose a Gryfe's bagel out of a line up. No question. I also make a mean latke.
6. I'm a cat person. 
7. I loved giving birth. The whole thing. Hospital, pushing, that first glimpse. Being pregnant? Not so much. 
8. I hate flying. I also hate massages. Or anyone touching my back for that matter.
9. If I had to choose a last meal, it would probably be spaghetti and meatballs. My meatballs.
10. I don't trust girls who don't have any long-term friendships. My first and best friend and I have known each other since we were 3 and a half. She converted to Jewish Orthodoxism. See #5. 
11. I am a daddy's girl. Through and through. 
12. I suffered with terrible migraines all through high school. Thankfully, they are all but gone now. I went to an all girls catholic school. Maybe that had something to do with it?

Q + A
1. What are your favourite things about winter?
Just one. BOOTS!

2. What is your favourite winter outfit?
Jeans, down jacket and ugg boots. It is cold in Toronto! 

3. What is your favourite winter food?
Probably a stew of some sort. Crusty bread. 

4. What is your favourite winter drink?
A steaming cup of coffee. I'm over the pumpkin spice latte. 

5. How do you like your make up in the winter?
Less bronzer, more blush. A darker lip more often. 

6. What are you hoping Santa brings you?
Nothing for me. Hoping he brings Ava a roller skating Dora and Boots. 

7. What is your favourite winter scent?
Evergreen. I miss having a real tree. 

8. What is your favourite winter memory?
Does going away to the Caribbean count?

9. What is your dream way to spend a winters day?
Snow falling outside, warm inside. Everyone home in pj's all day. There may be hot chocolate. 

10. What are the first 3 things that remind you of winter?
Starbucks red cups, boots and seeing your breath on a cold day. A sure sign it's here.

11. What is your favourite winter song?
Feliz Navidad! Always puts me in a good mood. 

12. Finish this sentence.....If I could have one Christmas wish it would be....
that Annie's cancer miraculously disappears. 
IF you're reading this, say a little prayer for her would you? She's amazing. 

I'm tagging just 3 of my favourites:
Christina from The Olive Tree
Cate from Wild Ruffle
Celia from Living my High Heeled Life

Love that statement necklace above? Be sure to enter our group giveaway. We're giving one away!

Happy Weekend! 
Linking up here + here today. 
 photo b3c55105-2875-4109-8016-a3e51c326004_zps36373d36.jpg

Thursday, December 5, 2013

What Ava Wore : A visit with Santa

I was never big on photos with Santa.
Every year, my older two would get a token shot with him at my then company's annual Christmas party and never really asked to do so otherwise.
But this kid? She saw him at the mall after dinner on Saturday night and didn't talk about anything else until Monday morning when I brought her back.
She was all dolled up. I may have brought a change of footwear.
Always best to go all out when meeting Santa and his elves.





dress - c/o FabKids
hair bow - c/o FabKids
boots - Target {$12!}
shoes - Joe Fresh 
Also know that this particular Santa {obviously sponsored by Bass Pro} is a fishing type. 
So yes, Ava may have been a tad overdressed in her fabulous FabKids frock but no matter. She still caught the big one.