Jess in Vancouver ...

Pen, Ink, Paper,Type

2012-01-25T23:20:00.000-08:00

The Santuary: Cool Conversions

2012-01-25T23:03:00.001-08:00

The Sanctuary, Capitol Hill, Seattle WA.

This was quite the sight as we stumbled out into daylight after a night of happy hour and late night happy hour on 15th. Quite the restoration and conversion project! Love it.....

Happy New Year (everyday) & into the Dragon's Den...

2012-01-24T14:52:00.000-08:00

January is a month of many New Year celebrations, depending on which calendar you follow. While we are all looking forward to this dragon-lucky year, I can't help but look back and piece together the everyday moments of the past that help me clarify where I'm going....

We spent a few days driving south in late 2011, and had an especially fun time in the Georgetown area of Seattle, by the underpass & railway lines, and old breweries & airfields. We tried the Corson Building for a fabulous dinner in beautiful rustic industrial surroundings (pictured above and interiors below). Purchased a Remington and beer.

We were the only ones walking about, kinda creepy... but lotsa atmosphere and great for photos!

Dinner setting at the Corson Building....the food was all good! We want to return for a weekend meal, communal seating and set menu :)

a little less competition, a little more collaboration

2012-01-10T00:43:00.000-08:00

In this season of renewal and looking forward, I'm once again full of excitement & hope for what is yet to come, yet am feeling a bit at a loss of how to put these ideas into action. There are more than two hands pointing me in opposite directions... First on the agenda, before the end of January- inspired by an unlikely connection- an inaugural meet up, a coffeehouse endeavour in a city full of coffee that certainly endeavours... We'll see if I can find the words to communicate everything I'm feeling right now. But it's a good feeling. A good feeling to know that every day offers a choice: to restart, to reevaluate, to retool.

And once again for me, all hands point back to the beginning...

East Side Culture Crawling

2011-11-20T10:40:00.000-08:00

Pink Tree on Glen Dr.

N, J & I committed to a full day of East Side Culture Crawling Sat. Nov 19th on the coldest and most glorious day of the month. I recalled last year's madness at Parker but nostalgia-sized on the cute spots in Strathcona and North Hastings where breathing space and memory didn't leave me feeling hungover.

First stop of the day, fuel at Prophouse Cafe 1626 Venables.

Brunch with the best mother-in-law ever!

Wonderful breakfast before 11am.

Wish they sold the props!

Armed with our map we were off from Glen to the Commercial drive home studios. Character heritage houses, studios, views and fabulous art! And barely a soul around....

East Georgia finds:

beautiful little apartment and displays

Rachel Ashe, photography and book arts

neat garage studio shared with designer

Jason Husmillo, painting

Nicola Tibbets, paintings

view from her porch

Then onto Victoria Drive, Grandview: the other Shaughnessy....

Jada-Gabrielle Pape, mixed media artist

to be developed

and just off Commercial on Charles, Famous Empty Sky

beautiful britannia

Loved Robbie Vergara, screen-printing bought some onesies and an apron!

Then it was onto the madness, but first stopping by Fujiya and Casa de Gelato...

We finished off the evening in lovely Strathcona and our face was Flying Octopus
and the workshop back lane!

Enjoyed Black Rook Bakehouse with the eclectic antiques.....

What a fabulous day, completed with tapas and cava in a frosty burnaby setting!

Thierry Patisserie/Black + Blue: Loving Alberni Street, Downtown West

2011-11-11T22:33:00.001-08:00

It's often easier to press repeat and live our life on automatic (or Siri dictaphone); by pre-judging the day ahead and lamenting its predictability.
Fortunately, life's all about second chances.
Within the maze of daily life and travelling through life's labyrinth, there is always a destination.
Small pleasures can make all the difference.

Although the lovely patisserie, Thierry, on the ever-expanding culinary Alberni St. has been open for a few months now, I wasn't particularly impressed (at first taste) with their small croissants or nutty macarons, but loved the packaging of the chocolates (little jewels). Returning with a friend (proximity to home), on a blustery evening, the patisserie was packed and the desserts looked better than ever. We tried a cappucino & tiramisu + a tea & lime mousse. Wow! Both were fabulously satisfying. Looks like the coffee there is at present, my new choice for best coffee in DT.W. Can't wait to return!

wall lighting...

And then after a brief interlude, it was off to dinner at Black and Blue, latest addition (2 weeks old) in the Glowbal Group's Vancouver food/hot spot empire.... a beer, wine and black bison to start things off, beef carpaccio, blue cheese bread, crab cake fondue and then a 10 oz PEI steak and burrata. Stuffed but satisfied.

Keep growing little Alberni, Thurlow is also looking mighty fine these days....

(Very cool lighting), wish I had a better camera as all my images have poor resolution...

Sneak Peek/Walk + Talk: Go Local!

2011-11-08T07:30:00.000-08:00

Looking out of the Dominion Building's 9th floor fashion studio.

Walking Tours have always been windows to the soul of a city. London's endless tours are for everyone, Brussels' bus tours were fabulous, as well as Seattle's architectural walks... So what about Vancouver? What sort of walking tours do we have for the average joe?

From the Historic Hastings walk West

While not everyone may enjoy a two hour ramble in a city, cemetery, forest or back lane, I find them fascinating! And if there's a pub visit at the end, even better! Here's a few around town that I've participated in/or have been wanting to join! Get out and walk the city, it's the best way to learn and experience things from the ground up!

John Atkin
Heritage Vancouver Society
Vancouver Heritage Foundation
AIBC
Mountain View Cemetery
Sins of the City, Police Museum
North Vancouver
James Johnstone
Jewish Museum Tours
Jane's Walks
Tour Guys
Artists Walking Home

Vancouver Food Tours

Letter Writing First Thursdays!

2011-11-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

Archived: Café ou Thé?

2011-11-08T07:20:00.000-08:00

Being from the wet coast, our coffee breaks and tea times are as unassumingly meshed into our day as bathroom breaks and traffic jams. We take it for granted there will be coffee and tea at every corner and we spend, consume and resume our daily habits with an almost compulsive self-automated delight. Vancouver's coffee-holics, cha, chai and matcha-lovers are unique in their numbers, for where else can you find such a selection of hot or cold beverages that a multi-lingual dictionary is necessary to decipher it? Most people say they're either more a tea or coffee drinker, not either/or- but I flip flop depending on my mood and where I am.

Shaktea on Main St.- nice atmosphere, but a bit pricey for what you get-

In Japan, I consumed an inordinate amount of green tea, bottle, boiled, matcha'd or other, while the time I sought out coffee, it was merely gratifying instead of fully satisfying. Tea was a staple, like our tap water, while coffee was more of a treat. In Vancouver we take coffee breaks whether that means imbibing some or not- water, tea, juices, smoothies or shakes are certainly acceptable.

Liberty on Main St- great art, great coffee and tea- yummy desserts, paninis and soup!

London had the most dependable tea available anywhere, from pubs and fast food joints, to specialized tea houses and boutique hotels. And tea breaks were certainly part of the regime (tea and cookies in fact!). Spending time in Hong Kong, the curious blend of Asian teas and coffees with British sensibilities got under my palate. Where typical tea and coffee shops are expensive and overpriced, HK diners or small greasy spoons had the best tea and coffee blends available! I'd alternate between a lemon ice tea and a milky black tea, and sometime opt for the coffee and tea. The Asian blends, from tapioca to large pearls, certainly add a bit of starch to the mix.

The Grind: student vibe, great place to "work"

Vancouver's tea and coffee scene is a mixed selection of popular chains, individual boutiques and hangouts. Where else is wireless so prevalent and free for all- look no further than a Vancouver coffee shop (though don't get confused with Amsterdam. BC bud isn't found at all of them, but it's certainly available). Bubble tea abounds as well, they're almost like Starbucks (though I doubt a bubble tea place would close down at Aberdeen). Whatever your fancy, tea, coffee and other....I'm always on the lookout... Let me know where your favourite spots are located!

Re-Entry on Main St. Nice strong coffee, funky modern "space" style (my pain au chocolat could have been crispier!)

Since drafting this entry early 2011, things have changed... Re-Entry is gone, I've had a great vegetarian afternoon tea at Shaktea etc....

Archived- Indoor Eating: Can you spot the spot?

2011-11-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

Archived: O Canada! We sang on command for thee!

2011-11-08T07:16:00.000-08:00

Archived: Vancouver Sculpture Biennale 2009!

2011-11-08T07:14:00.000-08:00

At the station, Cambie & 25th (this was before the theft)

Near the Aquatic Centre

A civilized afternoon for beer !

2011-10-31T17:23:00.000-07:00

Ever since Japan and London (and Brussels), I've been obsessed with good dark and tasty ales. While we'll always host a wine party, figured beer tasting would be a nice way to pass an afternoon, pre-Halloween, post Octoberfest! And delicious it was....

The Matinee Cast

Tree Brewing Co. Cutthroat Pale Ale

Dos Equis Lager Especial

Whistler Brewing Co. Powder Mountain Lager

Vancouver Island Brewery Sea Dog Amber Ale

Phillips Blue Buck

Howe Sound Brewing Nut Brown Rail Ale

Driftwood Brewery White Bark Wheat Ale

Unibroue La Fin du Monde

Phillips Hoperation Tripel Cross Belgian IPA

Lighthouse Brewing Co. Uncharted Belgian IPA

R&B Brewing Co. Raven Cream Ale

Phillips Longboat Chocolate Porter

Driftwood Brewery Crooked Coast Altbier

Phillips Amnesiac Double IPA

Bowen Island Brewing Co. Artisan IPA

Mmmm.... please send more, love the local stuff:)

West End: The New East Van?

2011-10-22T17:04:00.000-07:00

West End c. 1911 a block away from where we live now.

Living in the West End Part 1

Returning to Vancouver after a total of 3+ years in semi-urban Isobe, Japan and the fabulous neighbourhood of Marylebone, Central London, N & I were unsure what we could do in our "rainy-worst-dressed-sleepy" hometown. Moreover, where to put down roots? Besides the residential hoods of our parents' West-Eastside boundaries, we knew we had to live downtown for work.

I had been volunteering with the Heritage Vancouver Society since my return and the bi-monthly visits to the "office" off English Bay's Beach Avenue were a welcome oasis in a downtown core lacking green (literally). I wandered the leafy streets, peered into apartments, marvelled at heritage apartments and houses and was enchanted by the genuine sense of community and diversity of residents in the secluded and oft overlooked neighbourhood.

What a discovery, like a thriving secret garden! I knew I had to find an apartment on the edge of this neighbourhood and with a little luck and patience, we secured a spot in a heritage apartment. Fast forward 1.5 years, we've outgrown the space and are wondering if we will be able to find a better character apartment in the neighbourhood? What did I learn in those 1.5 years ?

To be continued...

Seeking Ghosts in the Kootenays...

2011-09-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Sandon, B.C. ~ Where my mother's family was sent in 1942.

Summer is for travelling, and instead of jetting off to distant lands and island hopping, a road trip (and ferry ride) is the ultimate BC vacation. How many of us have explored the creeks, lakes, trails and mountain tops of our spectacular province? Our natural wonders (hot springs and wildlife) are endless and so is the history, the ghosts of time past: the boom and bust of mining and logging and a particular WWII relocation of West Coast Canadians....

Brill buses in Sandon. Powell Street was old Japantown before WWII.

New Denver, Nikkei Memorial Museum.
An internment building now in the museum.

Amongst the injustice and shame, sadness and loss, seventy years later, there is still beauty and hope for the generations to come. Social and cultural history should be told by those who lived it, not by those who determined the fate of others. Everyone should face the ghosts that still linger amongst us because their story has not been told and should not be forgotten. Once we realize the power we have in telling our own history, anything is possible.

I do care a fig, for figs!

2011-08-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

Sweet summer fruit of mother-in-law's backyard tending & beautiful purple beans!

Summer Lovin'

2011-08-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

My first time on the West Van Museum's Modern House Tour.... what a trip! Well organized yet casual, we were all bussed about West Van on a gloriously sunny day. Topped off by a reception at the Eagle Harbour Yacht Club where everyone anxiously waited for the nibbles and drinks.

Fabulous walking tour of "blood alley" with John Atkin through the VHF.... Will never look at gastown again. Love how he likes to pop the bubbles of our Vancouver history making myths!

After the madness of Lynn Canyon walked around Rice Lake. Just perfect!

Olla Urban Flower Project & Parade!

2011-06-10T17:01:00.000-07:00

I had visited last year, and coming in today, I was reminded this was the 1 year anniversary! Thank goodness this small business has survived! It's an oasis in the city (mezzanine level off Cambie and Cordova). Workshops and working in the community are part of the program. I found a few adorable succulent arrangements for work. Next up, add more to the home!

And just next door, if you're looking for some amazing eco-natural chic baby stuff... try Parade!

Nelson the Seagull: Carrall St wow!

2011-06-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

It's exciting times in the heart of old Vancouver, Gastown. And while the G word seems to have a bad rap, there's something magical about transformations that work in an area that have suffered from sad times and neglect. Independent entrepreneurs are infusing the historic neighbourhood with new life and amazing creative aesthetic and gastronomic personality. Bring it on!

Nelson and the Seagull

Already super busy at lunch time!

Awesome coffee and treats!

my picnic board, lemonade & kale, broccoli and leek soup!

Then went to check out another cool local venture......

Community Thrift and Vintage! Great West Cordova Spot!

Springy Evening!

2011-05-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

After a delicious dinner at Tavola on Robson at Denman, where we dined on spaghetti, broccolini, a meat platter, and a sticky toffee pudding... we wandered around Lost Lagoon....

A Friday night after another great meal at Ensemble, saw the Surrealist Exhibit at the VAG and watched some arty "dance" with the Plastic Orchid Factory. Fun times downtown and in the West End!

Summer Awakening

2011-05-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

As May ends it looks like sunny days ahead! A busy week full of choir concerts, flamenco rehearsals, heritage house tour, in house festival concerts, Italian days and so much more! Vancouver's youthful summer bloom is short-lived; enjoy the vitamin D while you can as beauty only blossoms for a season!

Peter Morin's Museum @ Satellite Downtown

2011-05-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

Working and living downtown is truly a way to appreciate and be reminded of Vancouver's complexities as a city. Neighbourhoods within the downtown core shift dramatically as borders are drawn from one intersection to the next. It's a fascinating 14 minute walk through 6 blocks whose streetscape is as varied as any landscape; cultural, historic or economic. And then on Seymour, as of late there is the satellite gallery where the MOA/Presentation House/Belkin share a space with Blanket: commercial mixed with non-commercial, night club and arts host with daytime office space. 560 is unique and effective because of its contradictions, and memories of the now extinct A&B Sound. And then we have Peter Morin's Museum inside Satellite.........

Porcupine Quills

Manifesto (excerpt)

6. If you can't laugh or talk in the museum then you are not in the museum.

7. The objects watch us as much as we watch them.

Enjoying a bit of apres-gallery sustenance at Judas Goat.... and hit the fabulous shop hop in Gastown!

L'Abattoir: Edible Designs

2011-05-17T13:43:00.000-07:00

Had a quick dinner here early one evening a while back and enjoyed it thoroughly. Love the decor and ambience. Had our ladies dinner in the atrium this time and it was still good. Excited to try more new places in and around Gastown...

Good ol' Oregon brew

Spot o' tea... too much ice this time.

A la Tacoma!

2011-05-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Crossing Burrard Bridge

2011-05-10T20:35:00.000-07:00

les fleurs de printemps!

2011-05-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

Since the Sun has decided to come out for her weekly appearance,

things are looking brighter!

Mum's fabulous narcissus collection.

Fremont: Where beer, chocolate and community matter!

2011-04-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

Really cool local brewery where families brought their own dinners, kids and jugs for refills.... 6 tasters for $6- unreal! Loved the heron design and relaxed atmosphere in Freemont!

Tried chocolate from here in Vancouver (xoxolat) and was impressed with their factory which included tours and an all-you-can-eat tasting room! Sweet! We're coming back in the future for the tour!

I was enamoured with the anthropologie at the village- sigh... too amazing! I know our store isn't going to be half as exciting but it'll satisfy me until we can cross the border again:)

Bellingham ma belle!

2011-04-26T22:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry Vancouver, but our sister to the south,

Old Town Bellingham seems to be where it's at!

Happened upon a fabulous Saturday market at the Depot......

oh and did I mention, there's FREE PARKING on Sundays!!

great wrought iron

A little bit of everything

lotsa nice veggies

pretty posies

juice peddler

very nice ONYX coffee shop for the real connoisseurs

lovely graffiti

community bikes

around the block

thrifty

coming back for when the press is open!

Sechelt for the weekend.....

2011-04-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

Tulip Mania!

2011-04-25T22:15:00.000-07:00

Double Dose

2011-04-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

Found Dose on a walk around the somewhat dull south Granville strip- good coffee! Nice to see something different in the area (later also tried Mo's on Burrard for a nice crepe and cappucino).... Popped into Winsor Gallery and 18Karat and was excited to see Anthropologie looking rack ready!

Hopping across the border for a holyday

2011-04-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Headed south like most Vancouverites on a long weekend- we went without a plan and without the purpose of buying. We were determined to explore and enjoy the culture we knew wouldn't be too hard to find... and find it we did! Fremont... happy easter weekend..... (part 1)

Soaking up the Sun!

2011-04-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Bright sunny mornings inside are a cruel tease to the ice cold reality when we exit our front doors.... It may be spring though it doesn't feel like it. This Easter long weekend I'm going to embrace the sun and soak in it whatever way I can!

Down East - It's lookin' windy

2011-04-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

Enjoyed the symmetry from where I was standing on Powell...

On the eve of a 3-2 series where all could be lost ... all I can say is strong winds coming from the east, watch out!

Hach Off Main

2011-04-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Spent a lovely post-flamenco lazy afternoon on the strip of Main between 16th-24th (as usual). There's always something new to discover, or going up... crazy condos are taking over but there are also newer independents too. Hope they make it! I like Hach!

One can really see the Korean design and style coming through! Love it!

Gore Street Gawking

2011-04-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

Lazy Saturday mornings have become somewhat of a rush to get into a brunch place for coffee and eggs before the afternoon lineups. Can't really complain though as it gets us out of the apartment! After a satisfying meal (boo for the coffee), N wandered up to Sunrise and I lingered on Gore between Alexander and Powell. It made for a fascinating 20 minutes- (seagulls chasing each other for a seastar, busy shoppers at the rice spot, Sunrise and new Big Lou's meatshop). The corner lot (old gas station run by Japanese Canadians back in the heyday) is now under demolition- and the lovely dereliction was a sight to behold:) Also got the great alley view of an apartment building.... Gotta get pics of all this while they're still standing. Next week, they could be gone.....!

Of salmon and cranes

2011-04-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

These Susan Point stained glass windows at Christ Church Cathedral are stunning, and even more so late evening during choir rehearsal when I'm there in the narthex. At the moment it's even more lovely with the cranes suspended above to remind us of Japan.

Boneta with an old married couple:)

2011-04-08T19:52:00.000-07:00

Friday nights are becoming as predictable as eggs and bacon, but.... who says that's a bad thing? N and I get off by 5pm and we find somewhere new, usually in Gastown to eat at before 5:30pm. At that point it's completely empty, we don't need reservations and we get good service- we're not complaining! And now it's light out and we can have a lovely walk home.... Tonight's dinner was a tasty "mystery cocktail" with gin and rosewater, then duck and veal cheeks and a pretty good sticky toffee pudding! Yum.....

Traipsin' Tuesday!

2011-04-05T16:34:00.000-07:00

Finally a day off to do a little exploring around town without time constraints! First view point, checking out the bakery at VCC and discovering the wonderful cafeteria windows!

Beautiful Greenstems on Abbott. Love passing by to see the display. Wanted to find a cool corner film set but it was only an empty space. Found pizza instead and more tiles! Looking through windows and poking into men's stores! There's always closures and new openings....

Bloomin'

2011-04-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

Spring's arrival usually comes in the form of fabulous sakura around the city, followed by a wintry wind and rain downpour.... (and allergies) But another blooming tree also competes for the spotlight, the magnolia! In a way these brash explosions of pink and white proclaim their place and never fail to enchant me. The highlight of my walk up the hill on Barclay! These magnolia are stunning, especially in front of this lovely home! Did you know magnolia are truly ancient, evolving in Asia before bees and therefore were pollinated by beetles?

Spring Snowshoe and Fondue!

2011-03-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

I'm a fair-weather skiier (aka perfect-conditions & lazy) so despite being a few hours away from Whistler and less than 30min from Cypress, my skis have not been used in a while (I've had enough of sore feet with flamenco). But, when the opportunity to snowshoe at night combined with the reward of chocolate fondue was presented, my interest was piqued! With the arrival of Spring, we just managed to book the last weekend of snowshoeing and fondue at Cypress... what perfect conditions!

First Time on Snowshoes!

lovely cedar, fir, hemlock....

making snow angels upright

Hollyburn Lodge circa 1920

fondue celebrations!

fries go with everything!

Waldorf Evening of Tiki & New Pairings

2011-03-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

HVS' Evening of Tiki at the Waldorf Hotel was a fascinating glimpse of Vancouver's past, its current status and future ambitions. The new management team have truly transformed this wilting Vancouver legend into one healthy Waldorf rebirth. HVS hosted the Tiki night with a talk by "Dr. Tiki" himself, Don Luxton in the Cabaret downstairs. This place certainly has history linked to the Tiki-craze across North America and Vancouver itself, and is now one of the oldest surviving Tiki-bars in N. Am.

Oh food launch, you did not have enough food for all the hungry guests! Next time, we hope the kitchen will open for a real meal!

Judging by the sold out HVS event and the popularity of the food and bev launch, it was a new pairing of white hairs and hipsters, locals and newcomers, foodies and heritage-lovers, east and west-siders. Hopefully, like so many other iconic and historical Vancouver spots, Waldorf can once again become a place where all Vancouverites go to enjoy a drink, listen to live music and recall a bit of history that gets a chance to live on (especially in the fabulous Tiki-bar) ...

Daily Kitchen, be mine anytime!

2011-03-26T09:30:00.000-07:00

N & I found ourselves with a Saturday afternoon of aimless Vancouver wanderings.... We try to explore new areas/parks/landscapes of the city but it's oh so hard without ipads or gps on the phone:P I'm thinking, downloading books (history/guidebooks) would come in handy..... but we did luck out again with recommendations for Daily Kitchen. Oh my yum! If we had more time I would have stayed for the 65$ 6 courses..... As it was, we thoroughly enjoyed our wine, mussels, venison and the biggest local prawns I've ever eaten! Magnificent... Loved the space as well... Highly recommended (we're starting to become early eaters so we get seats and better service.. works for me!)

510 West Hastings- Standard Bank Building... Week One

2011-03-11T22:57:00.000-08:00

Mum was heading to a cheese tasting at the Italian Instituto (6th floor) of the Standard Bldg so I popped in to take a look as well. (The Blenz on the corner of Hastings and Richards is beautiful.) The lobby of this Standard Bank Building is dazzlingly bright- nice historical photographs, international clocks and gold mail boxes....Little did I know that I'd be working in the building in the following 6 months.... Week one down-

Sanafir: Meet, Greet don't Eat

2011-03-11T22:46:00.000-08:00

We only chose to check out Sanafir because of a Glowbal card special. The food was over-sauced and less than subtle (esp. in comparison with Nuba) but I'd recommend it as a place to linger over a drink. The decor was striking with all the exoticism one would expect of the Glowbal Group's noticeable branding in its multiple Vancouver eateries.

MEAT/BREAD & CIDER/BEER

2011-03-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

Mmmmm..... meat and bread and cider and beer:) Busy ever since its opening and write-up, meat and bread certainly does not disappoint. Fun interior- manly yet aesthetically pleasing (sure it's a little "too" coiffed, but one cannot complain about the meat!) Loved the porchetta... beef was rich! Wonderful cider (note 10%) and blue buck not bad... And reading material for the men in the WC....

Vol. 5- Taliesen West

2011-02-28T12:58:00.000-08:00

Taliesen West was a surprise discovery on the outskirts of Phoenix and Scottsdale. Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home in the Sonoran Desert started off as a "camp" with his architecture students and evolved from 1937 until present day where it's the smallest accredited architecture school in the US. Made from concrete, rocks from the mountains and wood (also refitted with steel), this "Shining Brow" (taliesen in Welsh) is a refreshing structure in the middle of a desert and suburbia. We caught the last tour of the day, after the rain had passed. We were lucky enough to see the preparations for an evening soiree in the theatre and cabaret.

Snowy Night Out in Gastown

2011-02-28T12:30:00.000-08:00

Saturday night plans for many could have been displaced by the snowfall, but it was a chance storm again that made the experience a little more memorable. Seaf Monstr Sushi was the first stop- shared a few rolls and a Combo but was still hungry for more.

Onward to Diamond across the street which was still very empty before 9pm. Didn't love the drinks I ordered (Hotel Nacional and Bicycletta), and the fish sub and charcuterie plate was passable, but it was the heritage setting- those windows- that made the place unique.

Had to laugh when a friend asked for hot water and the waitress told us they can't boil anything because the place is old, ie- no tea or coffee. Hmm... I guess they really are just a drinking joint, though the food they serve was warm, so I assumed they used a microwave or hotplate? One doesn't need a stove to even boil water on.... Curious....

Relaxing at the Buzz Cafe

2011-02-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

On the eve of our one year anniversary of living downtown in the West End, I realize what a creature of habit we all become. Moving in at the cusp of sweet spring was perfect timing before the summer rush of stuffy days and nights and noise. I do love the silence and space of living in a typical Vancouver neighbourhood, but in the winter around my plot of central downtown (apart from Granville St at night), there are endless quiet and empty streets and hidden places of serenity. Popping into Buzz Cafe on a Wednesday late afternoon was perfect for a cappucino and apple turnover. The gallery setting along with the upper level seating was a great place to catch up, enjoy the surroundings, read or use a laptop. I'm always on the lookout for good neighbourhood cafes with something to buzz about.

Vol 4. Wine Tour Wonderland in the Grand Canyon State

2011-02-27T22:57:00.001-08:00

We did get our kicks on Route 66 :) What a wonderful whirlwind 24 hours on the road in Northern Arizona.... This was the scene from Flagstaff.

Though a long 4-5 hour one-way drive through some deserted landscape, the Grand Canyon delivered! And what a special view: sun, blue skies, and snow!

The Oak Creek Winery Tour! Not bad reds produced though these vineyards are just for show... most of the grapes come from Wilcox and further South.....

Vol 3. Phoenix Rising Sun

2011-02-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

The promise of mid-winter sun and warmth in Arizona is the flame to the winter-weary Canadian-moth who migrates south every year. When the sun finally appeared on our stormy weekend, it was glorious...... Cactus glowing with sunny outline- sunset over the Papago Mountains, the pink glow on snow covered plains and blinding yellow light over the Greater Phoenix area....

Vol 2. Clarendon Hotel, Phoenix

2011-02-24T15:50:00.000-08:00

Clarendon Hotel was recommended by someone living in the city (dedicated to reviving the downtown instead of fleeing for the 'burbs) and this local watering hole really was an urban oasis in the desert of parking lots! We arrived on a Friday night around dinnertime, and were lucky to get a spot at the bar of the hotel's in-house restaurant, Gallo Bianco.

No firearms allowed! (For real, there were signs everywhere saying no shirt, no shoes, no fireams)

Spotted this bumper plate sticker at our hotel parking lot. It says it all....

Vol. 1: Snow in the Desert

2011-02-23T23:07:00.000-08:00

A water-related meeting took us to Arizona, a chance long-weekend away to explore and escape the drizzling grey constancy of the Wet Coast:) Alas, we seemed to have brought the winter deluge with us as we hit the first big storm of the season- torrents of rain and piles of snow... but some clouds certainly have silver linings.... Cacti in snow, snowmen in the desert- painting even more impressive streaks of white onto an already vibrant canvas!

From Sugar Loaf trail in Sedona, AZ

In Pursuit of Love

2011-02-11T15:23:00.001-08:00

Amongst the pressure to purchase, the stress of perfection and the heart-palpitating expectations of a certain mid-February day, a little voice calls out- but what about love? As long as love finds its way through the flower-chocolate-spa thicket (all welcome distractions), we can appreciate the simple pleasures that exist at the heart of the matter :)

Without Sub-Titles

2011-01-25T11:31:00.000-08:00

We couldn't read a single word but it didn't matter. This piece was the most intriguing of the night ( PuSh festival- continued in next post) because we could actually "interact" with it... motorcycle, fallen rider... we couldn't take our eyes off the crash...

PuShing Us Onto the Streets of Gastown

2011-01-25T11:19:00.001-08:00

It's amazing how many people in the city will come out if something's free and there's been a write-up in the paper with positive reviews. N&J were stranded in Gastown after a smoking car (don't ask), so wiled away a misty mid-winter afternoon wandering the deserted streets, tourist shops, drinking cheap beer and finally as darkness fell- waiting for the main attraction: PuSh festival's la marea. I enjoyed the feeling of watching movies being filmed, staging, inner-dialogues, somewhat site-specificity, but just like Circa, I'm not sure if I was a tad underwhelmed because, like myself, everyone else was so eager to validate the experience....

Finch's at Pender & Homer

2011-01-13T12:19:00.000-08:00

Finch's~ wholesome, hipster, comfort-food

Viet Bia: 15 cents - $1

2011-01-13T00:27:00.000-08:00

From fresh beer to kegs, we sampled whatever local beers we could..... Halong, Tiger, LaRue, 333.... how many more out there can we try next time! All one needs to survive is strong coffee and cheap beer!

eNAMoured with Viet Nam!

2011-01-04T20:05:00.000-08:00

Celebrating the Holidays in the East

2011-01-04T16:13:00.000-08:00

Huge street party celebrations in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) for New Year's Eve I've been away from home 3 out of 5 times in the last 5 years for Christmas and New Year. I love the family dinners and winterfest, but I don't miss escaping the consumerism and commercialism pervading the season of lights, hope and love. This year we were traipsing the countryside of Vietnam, with the Hmong hilltribes of NorthWest Vietnam near the Chinese border. Needless to say, Christmas in the form of Jesus and the manger scene alongside Santa Claus, is everywhere! I guess you really can't escape globalization and true forms of mass communication! Santa Claus balloons being sold on bikes everywhere and into New Year.... Sign on a church fence in Sapa, Northern Vietnam

Reflections on the Winter Season

2010-12-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

December has been rolling along, and instead of the Advent of Christmas and New Year as the high points to look forward to, I've discovered new dates and deadlines which have lead me to enjoy and appreciate the meaning of holiday spirit. The Vancouver Children's Choir's call for help came at an interesting time of year and there's so much to be done into 2011..... Being back inside Christ Church was a lovely experience, and this time from the behind the scenes perspective. Helping with the Victorian Christmas Party was another lovely event :) And now for our biggest send off... flying off to Hong Kong and Vietnam for the next two weeks into New Year.... what wonders await us? to 2011!

On the third day of Christmas my true love came home to me.....

2010-12-03T01:15:00.000-08:00

On the second day of Christmas my true love sang to me....

2010-12-02T14:46:00.000-08:00

Sweet children singing

Vancouver Children's Choir sings carols for the Amacon Christmas Tree Lighting 6pm and 6:25pm today at the Art Gallery Fountain side.....:)

And scrumptious afternoon high tea!

On the first day of Christmas....

2010-12-01T07:18:00.000-08:00

My true love ate with me... at Hotel Vancouver's delicious afternoon high tea! (Delightful China)

Ready to Escape Winter, Already...

2010-11-28T23:53:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's only snowed twice in the past few weeks, but it's been enough to make it clear to us "wimpy Vancouverites" that Winter is here to stay.... It's hard to believe how white and wet it was not long ago and for now, the white flakes haven't returned, but who's to say what the next few months of "real winter" will bring? Snow birds, snow geese- I understand your migration paths. N & I are definitely flying to warmer climates for a little R&R! Pump me full of Hep A/B antibodies and Ducarol, I'm ready to be eNAMoured:)

Terracotta: Asian Bar Food (with nuts)

2010-11-25T01:37:00.001-08:00

On a very cold and wintry night, A & J were off to try another "on the list" local eatery. While the sidewalks may have been deserted on a Wednesday -inside, Gastown was hopping. Terracotta Modern Chinese is as the name suggests: trendy asian food. The grub was decent and not too pricey, but it felt like a bar serving Asian food, as opposed to the other way around:) We liked the sliders with hoisin sauce, the beans were nicely flavoured (had to pop a Benadryl as it's always my fault for not asking about nuts when I least expect it- though the manager did comp the dish) and the fried squid and chicken knees were fatty goodness..... The tapioca was nothing to write home about- so, would we go back? (Only for a drink and to catch some hockey- no bar nuts please....) Took a spin around the block to check out the new stores... Roden Gray looked like a nice place for men's clothes, if you like that faux-rugged expensive look- very Gastown hip:) Gastown is still lovely at night all lit-up!

Contemplating the Jellies

2010-11-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

November has been a month of endless rehearsing, culminating in an exhaustive and exhilarating weekend of flamenco performances. Made an appearance at the VAG's Fuse Night but it only made me long for V&A's friday nights and a new gallery- Stanley's "39 Steps" was a first rate production with fabulous costumes, sets and physical comedy, but once again I was forced to compare it to the London production we saw a few years back, of which we were also underwhelmed. A painless evening of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (thanks to advance planning) was an enjoyable experience though a titch too short for my liking. Mother nature has spread her wintery wares over the Lower Mainland and we are enjoying a real winter with snow and sun already, and nature never fails to impress. These encased jellies are the perfect living art, circling in their Aquarium custom homes. Marvellous!

La Novia Bridal~ Carrall Street's Bright Side

2010-11-18T08:57:00.000-08:00

After a three year incubation and a year of changing locations, La Novia Bridal has opened its doors at 311 Carrall between Cordova and Hastings. Dicey area, you ask? Housed in a gorgeously restored heritage building the lovely tiling, large boutique windows and fabulous crown moulding stand out (not to mention what's hanging on the walls). For your trying-on pleasure, there's at least twenty one-of-a-kind creations by Jason Matlo, Kathryn Bass and more! With an Italian Chocolateria opening up next door, what better time to check out the rapidly expanding eastward arts.culture.fashion.food scene in Vancouver. Long live gentrification! Poverty and addiction may be what's thriving in the DTES but that doesn't mean we should let it spread. Give local entrepreneurs a chance and we will be helping more than just the local economy. You know you'll be in Gastown to check out the new restaurants which seem to be popping up every month or so, and I hope the new shopping spots on Water street materialize soon, but now you can support growing local bridal and beauty spots like La Novia Bridal for something unique. A breath of fresh air has just blown into a neighbourhood that needs a little love and happiness to bring the spotlight back downtown.

Creating the Future

2010-11-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

Monday morning downpours. Refreshed after a quick mad dash through downtown in my gardening boots and matching polka-dot raincoat and brellie (tacos and pulled pork in my belly)- a return coffee break at Honey Buns (Cathedral Place) with my honey. Practically every meeting brings me past Christ Church Cathedral on Georgia and Burrard, where I spent 5 years singing and learning with one of the best local choral minds in town. So who should walk in at Honey Buns but Mr. Lang! I had been thinking about him (as well as my old violin teacher Mr. Yunke and my more favourite ballet teachers of the past) and this "coincidence" seemed like the perfect opportunity to reconnect... I don't think we should feel the need to shed the past if it was positive and nourishing- in fact, returning and revisiting old memories and experiences breathes life into what becomes the future... (a red dahlia in my bird teacup is one of my favourites)

Flamenco Flurries

2010-11-07T23:15:00.001-08:00

There's a 100% chance of flamenco flurries for Surrey and Chilliwack this weekend! It's been a tempest of postering and emails, blogging and phone calls ~all for the love of performing arts.... I've learned a lot from helping spread the word about this local flamenco production from the creative minds of Karen Flamenco. We've been fortunate enough to have David Cooper shoot our professional images and head shots for Romeo and Juliet. Can't say I envy a model's life, but the results are the stuff dreams are made of! Sending out the word to local media about the show has garnered some attention and new connections. Let's hope Vancouver can keep the arts alive and thriving, thanks in part to social media networks! Power to the creative arts! The Surrey Leader: "Fiery Love Story told Through Dance" The Georgia Straight: "Romeo and Juliet get flamenco flair" Hummingbird604: Article and Ticket Giveaway! Chilliwack Times: Passionate Dancer Vancouverite: Romeo and Juliet

Cork, Shells, Orling & Wu

2010-11-07T22:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Scout, decided to check out a meal in Gastown for the Eat!Drink!Local! For $20 I had an addictive glass of Volcanic Hills Gewurtz and bouillabaisse while for $30, N had oysters, prawns and succulent lamb! Shared a surprisingly good chocolate souffle.... Caught sight of the visually absorbing "Orling and Wu" on the way home via Water street- too rich for my blood but lovely for browsing...

Saturday Morning Markets

2010-11-07T22:04:00.000-08:00

Our favourite purchase from the Winter Market thus far~ Denman Island apple juice- a real mix of apples, delicious and reminiscent of the stuff we'd get from any store in London.... yum!!! perfect for those winter ciders... Well worth the $12 and the heavy lifting! Meant to check out this Bakers Market for a while now, but heading to South Kent (off Marine Drive) has never been a priority on a Saturday morning.... yet with the arrival of a wet grey morning, the promise of endless baked goods and coffee were awfully enticing.... We arrived early (oops), for the 11am opening so got a chance to peruse the goods while only the vendors were setting up- Bakers I'd risk cavities for.... The Ivy Oven : Excellent apple and cranberry pastry tart! Chef Kev: 2 items for $10, sure it's not cheap but the 4 coffee chocolates and 8 lavender cookies were very satisfying. Baker who sadly didn't measure up! Biscotteria di Sofia- $2 for a minuscule biscotti (no samples) and they were disappointingly inedible even dipped in coffee :( On to Nat Bailey's parking lot for the first day of Vancouver's Winter Market! We drove straight there from the Bakers' and started off with the great food... fire-oven baked cheese pizza and lovely little tacos (all very pricey, $3 slice min/ $6 for 2 pulled pork tacos). Will try the chilli tank and beer sausages next time! One of reasons for coming to the market is for the dogs... these Samoas were too adorable!!! The interestingly named turks' turban squash... we'll see how my attempts at roasting it will work! I love these oyster mushrooms... quite the chorus in a cup! And a little nod to Movember... and since some of us can't really grow one like Poirot, a chocolate one will do fine, merci!

The Underground Feast

2010-11-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

Many foodie friends keep me up to date on the latest and greatest Vancouver has to offer. And ironically, even though we live in the heart of downtown's plethora of eating options, we still prefer to cook (though the time + cost doesn't always add up). But, here's one of the most recent eating experiences we had- With good friends, a baby and a cool chef who smoked and drank the whole time, but let us into his very eclectic heritage apartment! To more unique and memorable food experiences! Cheers!

Oh bison tartare!

loved the salmon!

A little pork...

le menu

Halloween Haunts and Walks

2010-11-01T10:51:00.001-07:00

Wandering through the neighbourhood on the way to the Creperie, we see the setting up of a Food Bank Fundraiser "Side Show" on Bute St at Barclay. How exciting! There's nothing like creativity to warm cold nights and instead of scaring people, amazing them with the wondrous is far more enticing! Seriously impressed by the community spirit from the East and West End of downtown- the real hearts of the city. It warmed my cold stone heart for the weekend.... And going back in time, we walked up and down the Secret Souls Walk through Victoria St laneways and up the hill to the sounds of marching bands and Thriller-dancing zombies. Curious creatures of all sorts and the cutest dressed-up kids...

Happy Hallowe'enie!

Karen Flamenco presents "Romeo and Juliet" Shakespeare on Fire!

2010-10-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

"There never was a tale of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo"

(Or so proclaims the narrator in Shakespeare's 16th century tragic love story). Romeo and Juliet is a timeless tale of warring families, star-crossed lovers, hatred, love and ultimately, hope. But, check out this flamenco production for the most feisty and fearless Juliet ever!

Following a successful three-show run at the Norman Rothstein Theatre in June, the Karen Flamenco Dance Company takes its newest incarnation of " Romeo and Juliet" on the road!

Set in turn of the century Mexico, the timeless love-tragedy is visually translated into the fiery poetry of flamenco dance. Beautiful bandidas feud flamenco-style, mystical gypsies cast their hypnotic spell all to the accompaniment of live flamenco guitar and narration of master storyteller and magician Gerardo Avila.

Come see Karen Pitkethly in the role of Juliet, hot off her latest flamenco collaborations! Karen choreographed Bard on the Beach's production of "Much Ado About Nothing" and the Arts Club's "Don Quixote" with floreos and jaleos!

Karen & Co. also finished wrapping up a shoot for BRAVO short, "Dance of the Little Old Men" by film maker Kulchera Matson and Karen, who often performs with world fusion artists, Tambura Rasa, recently graced the stage at the Western Canada Music Awards!

You'll want to catch the two upcoming November performances, Friday, November 12th at the beautiful Surrey Arts Centre and Saturday, November 13th at the newly-opened Chilliwack Cultural Centre. Two Spring shows will be performed at the Heritage Theatre in Gibsons, April 9th and 10th, 2011.

Tickets are available at the Surrey Arts Centre and the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. For group discounts of 10 or more call: Surrey Arts Centre 604.501.5566 and Chilliwack Cultch 604.391.SHOW

Spread the word and see you at the show!

Singing a Happy Tune!

2010-10-13T00:57:00.000-07:00

I have always been one to delight in past treasures: dress-up in elementary, thrift store and vintage 70s hand me downs in high school, all things Art Deco in university.... There was a time I thought of these secret treasures as an indulgence for the frivolous and absurd. Yet these unsung icons of my past have made their comeback. I love antiques, vintage wear and a nod towards heritage. These have led me to many discoveries in the past decade. We can't look forward without looking back, and breathing new life into "old" treasures is what keeps me going. In this age of commodity, mass-production and reproduction- what was once "standard" becomes "remarkable", not only for the care and tailoring it took to make the object, but for its sheer beauty. Uncovering the dusty, mouldy Singer sewing machine in my Grandma's garage (complete with nest of plastic) was a moment of real pleasure and imagination- a winter restoration project with loads of potential!

Light & Shade

2010-10-10T21:17:00.001-07:00

I love living at the Biltmore- it inspires me to imagine Vancouver of another era... My favourite daily sight is looking South out the stained-glass window on our floor- The corner crack appeared after the painters came in, but I've come to like the view looking out.

Allium to ward off the rain

2010-10-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

Allium ampeloprasum , purple sensation, may be the variety planted, arranged and fêted around town but I love them for their unique onion fragrance and delicate awkwardness. This bud was too beautiful to pass up along the beach by Burrard Street on my way to the Aqua Bus.

Nelson off Thurlow

2010-10-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

Sunny days truly bring out the best in Vancouverites. We see only the best of what the city has to offer. While people on the streets may be fickle like the weather, buildings alter through our eyes only. While the Wall Center complex has added a lot to the corner of Burrard and Nelson, the real pillars of the community are the stones of St. Andrew's Wesley.

Public Dreams, Pacifika and Flamenco!

2010-10-08T09:10:00.000-07:00

Dancing for the Karen Flamenco Company, you never know what exciting venue, musical collaboration or dance setting awaits. The short-lived Storyeum has now become Storyeum W2, and what a setting for dancing to the amazing tunes of Pacifika for the Public Dreams Society Birthday Bash (photos courtesy of Public Dreams). The evening was an unexpected night of fun, reunions and common ground. Olé!

Wing Sang = Rennie Collection: Heritage to Arts

2010-10-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

Chinatown's currently changing streetscape has brought about a lot of interest and debate around the future of this somewhat neglected historic fringe neighbourhood. I recall eating in Chinatown and downtown 20 years ago when there were few other good chinese food options, but time and changing tastes have left Chinatown frequented mostly by the old, the curious, the tourists and the homeless. A renaissance of sorts has blossomed in the past few years with the Wing Sang's revival. Surrounding cafes, restaurants, clubs, and art spaces have emerged. But what is the actual future and direction of this disconnect with the cultural history of the Chinese in the area? Hopefully, these merging communities will see the benefit of working together, maintaining cultural and historical knowledge and striving towards a positive future. Is everything going to be all right? Love the view from the rooftop terrace and the height and light from the interior......

"Yip Sang, a pre-eminent early Chinese entrepreneur, originally built this as a two-storey structure in 1889, then expanded it in 1901 into a much larger three-storey building. In 1910, he appended a six-story structure to the rear of the original building to accommodate his growing business and family. The Yip Sang Building remained vacant from the mid-1970s until 2004 when Bob Rennie purchased it to house his real estate marketing office and an art gallery for his private contemporary art collection. This major rehabilitation of the Wing Sang Building, one of the most significant structures in the Chinatown Historic Area, is now complete. The heritage centerpiece, the new boardroom that was once a schoolroom for Yip Sang’s children, remains virtually unchanged."

Heritage Vancouver 2010

Richard Jackson ~ Rennie Collection

2010-10-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, the Rennie Collection opened its doors to the public, and art fans got a glimpse of an art space unlike anything else in Vancouver. Whatever you may think of Rennie the Condo King or modern art, I'm just happy to have another free cultural institution to visit in Vancouver! Check it out and book a free tour today! I thought Jackson's works were provocative, impressive and playful (especially enjoyed the rifle play on Seurat's La Grande Jatte).

Let the Sun Shine In...

2010-09-30T12:20:00.001-07:00

Damp Autumn air descends upon us. Great Chestnut and Oak trees shake, rattle and drop crisp leaves and seeds as we walk underfoot. And the Sun still burns. The winds of changing seasons has swept away the summer haze but old promises cling, humid and cold, to window panes, the ache in my back, and places hard to reach. The last walking tour of the season with Heritage Vancouver was a great success, completing a stellar year. I was particularly pleased to be a part of this one in Mole Hill as it's now my neighbourhood- and what a place to be proud of. My usual frazzled self forgot to photograph the tour on the day of, (drizzle and clipboards dampening the spontaneity) but the day after I re-toured, unencumbered, to preserve a few more memories... Mole Hill along Pendrell heading West in the midafternoon light.

Travel Books: My favourite reads!!

2010-09-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

I have for most of my life had my head in a book. For me it is a luxury and an escape that always centres and reaffirms my love and understanding of the world and of places beyond where one is physically situated. I am a definite anglophile and gravitate towards the classics, yet once I get my hands on a TimeOut or Fodors etc, I can't stop! At present, the above guidebook to contemporary architecture in vancouver is a must-read by any Vancouverite who's interested in the city, its past and its future~ It's nice to learn more about one's own home, and the wonderful architectural spaces that shape where we live! I'm anxious to get my hands on this Toronto guide to contemporary architecture as I'm headed there in early October..... I am presently reading the Fodor's guide which includes Niagara/NOTL! It'll be my first time there and I can't wait to see a Shaw play and some wineries and perhaps even go on the lady of the mist.... I wanted to include a cover photo of the gorgeous penguin modern classics copy of E.M. Forster's "Where Angels Fear to Tread", that I have just finished, but alas- I'm still including it as a "must-read" for Forster's humourous and insightful observations of the British abroad (here in Italy) contain musings and truths on life and love. This work of fiction is as much a travel guide on life and culture as any guidebook.

Pears of our own Picking

2010-09-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

After a sensational W-day and a few days of recovery, we were off on a Quan family retreat to Casa Loma Resort on the Westbank side of Kelowna. It was very relaxing with lots of wineing, walking, eating- and a real treat, pear picking! The pears are now sunning themselves on our kitchen table :) They go very well with our decor! Another Granville Street discovery: Creme de la Crumb- scrumptious scones, strong umbria coffee and nice surroundings at the Rogers Block! And from the inside, a stunning escape view!

relieved. impressed. partyed-out (not yet)

2010-08-25T00:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a year coming, to say the least... and the stress, the anxiety, the money... I suppose it was all worth it! Pure Souls have done an outstanding job of capturing the moments:) An amazing day full of amazing friends and family- couldn't ask for more!

Anticipation...

2010-07-13T14:46:00.001-07:00

A choice view from the hall of our apartment. love the stained-glass July 13 has been a great day so far! A day off to one's self is always a luxury, and even more precious when new discoveries and unexpected pleasure pop up as well. I've been sorting out wedding details and all I can say is, everything anyone has ever said about wedding planning being the most difficult part of the marriage (almost) is TRUE!! Good lord! Changes galore, squabbles, strong opinions, traditions... I just can't wait till THE day so we can enjoy ourselves!! (stay calm) Instead, the excitement has been building for the girls trip to New York (only 5 days away)! I can't believe it's been 13 years since I last visited. That was such a fabulous choral experience, all the major sites, singing at Carnegie Hall, seeing Rent, wandering Greenwich and Soho with T as two solo highschoolers. Awesome! This time round, it's with 3 great highschool friends, hopefully the start of many fun-filled girls trips once life gets in the way. I can't wait and I just know I'll be so sad to leave. Fingers crossed N and I may just make it back for a longer journey! Reading Time Out New York at the newly opened JJ Bean at Bute & Alberni. lovely look and upstairs seating An even cooler washroom. heavily air-conditioned. The lunch of the day was at Joyeaux (Vietnamese Restaurant) on Howe and boy was it busy! Downtown prices and ok food, but nice to know it's just around the corner. And that yummy coffee!

First Few

2010-07-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

This year of wedding planning has felt very l-o-n-g, but now that it's down to the last 6 weeks, I have to say, it's finally beginning to be fun! Most of the big details are done, but there's still a lot of personal touches to be added! Procrastination and cramming never change! We had the good fortune to be recommended a unique pair of photographers for our wedding and had our engagement shoot just last week..... Here's a few previews! Nels and I are smiling a lot (at least we don't look as awkward as we felt!).... Jump!!!

Bao Bei: Precious Additions to Chinatown!

2010-05-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Domai Gals have decided to get together and treat the birthday girl to a dinner around town, just the four of us. Our first night was at Chambar, and I was impressed with how lovely the food tasted and looked, and how busy the place remains to be. For our second night out, I chose Chinatown and Asian food, the new Bao Bei on Keefer that's been pretty popular with the non-Chinatown crowd. It was a lovely early evening so we stopped by the Sun Yat Sen Gardens and poked around the area. We were a tad early for the 5:30pm opening, so hung out in front of the Keefer bar (check out the site for the amazing suites and penthouse). From outside the space I could tell I would like it. Sigh! What a cute waiting area here, the high tables on the side as well,and the bar area. Though it was a long and narrow space, that was the charm of it- part cafe, part home. I loved the design details. Very Western, chinoiserie-chic. Awesome wallpaper in the WC. Love those pea shoots! Lotus chips! Coconut, Avocado and Vietnamese Coffee Ice cream (plus small fried bananas). Neat street art near the memorial to Chinese forces....

ACME: A good little cafe

2010-05-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

May has been a wonderful month of new discoveries and newfound love for a city I call "home". The J.E.T.s had a Thursday family date to see the Rennie Collection (to be written about soon) and it is probably the first time I've ever been so excited to see the "new" in Vancouver. It did not disappoint. We were on a high from our free tour and I had wanted to find a nice lunch spot in the area. Luckily ACME Cafe was just around the corner on Hastings so off we went, just before noon..... It's such a thrill to see the historic heart of the city recovering from multiple bypasses and surgeries, infections and complications, but now on the road to a healthy future (fingers crossed). The clientele was mixed, eclectic and well-heeled, but the atmosphere was sincere and local. We tried the blue cheese/portobello quiche, chicken pot pie and high-flutin' grilled cheese sandwich, plus some coffee and apple pie.... Mmm Mmmm! Afterwards, on our walk back to Chinatown, we popped into the old Save-on-Meats (vintage neon sign still hanging, for now).... It was a bit sad to see what this grand grocer has become. Empty displays, a neat cheap food stand at the back and basic corner store goods behind the counter. But change is necessary and let's hope this place gets a fortuitous reincarnation!

La Brasserie on Davie: This Brass is for Moi

2010-05-25T23:00:00.000-07:00

We'd been to La Brasserie once before for dinner during my lovely English Bay apt. sitting stint last summer. Hadn't revisited it since, but I walk by it often, noticing the daily specials board, chefs at work, and big burgers and beers. Timing was on our side this Sunday as the MC (and comedienne extraordinaire) came to visit us in the West End, and while still deep in conversation about the "W", we scored a nice bar seat.... Mussels were lovely though a bit on the small side (and frites weren't quite crispy enough), but that creamy lemon parsley.... mmm! N's lamb cheeks were tasty!! (Though we figure we also should have ordered the rabbit special...) Satisfaction... and we loved watching the chefs create the dishes right before us. What calm concentration and artistry! Oh yeah, the chocolate mousse terrine. Best yet! With a little espresso anglaise..... Care to meet me for dessert sometime?

The Refinery: more Granville Street gems

2010-05-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

Once again, The Refinery has been on my radar of places to check out for dining experiences downtown. We were not disappointed. Twisted Fork up the road is still a favourite and now the Refinery is a nice spot to know about if you're ever crossing Helmcken & Granville. We hurried over on a Friday evening, before a 6pm appointment with our officiant. As the only ones in the joint we enjoyed superb service :) The light was wonderful at our table by the window and we admired the surroundings. We ordered a BC meat/cheese plate, the cassoulet (mmm), a shiraz and lotusland pinot noir rose! Gobbled down in 30 minutes... (Checking out the chef on the rooftop). Then it was off to Timmy Ho's, Starbucks, Cactus Club and a Yaletown Condo date with the most rambunctious french bull dog, Oscar! A memorable and stunning spring evening to wander the streets of downtown Vancouver!

New Eats: Controversial, Trees & Tricks

2010-05-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

For many months now I've been reading the Westender for their great food recommendations. It has single-handedly converted me to the world of downtown eating (North, South, East, West). I've got a long list of places to try, many saved away for a rainy day, but for my 31st, I decided to do a little quiet affair at Mis Trucos on Davie. A beautiful and sunny Friday, we had the whole house to ourselves (save a few drinkers on the patio and one at the bar). Everyone else was obviously at hockey-showing establishment for Game 4 'gainst the Hawks.... We tried a number of good tapas: scallops, prawns, potted pig, charcuterie, and the above deliciously presented Ling Cod. I washed it all down with an R&B cream ale and N had a red. The decor was lovely and fresh. We'd come back for sure in a group of 4 just so we could share a bit of everything on the menu. $100/two with drinks and churros which were not quite cooked long enough...... The week also brought a visit to the ever-popular Trees Organics on Granville and Hastings. I had only noticed it lately as I've been coming downtown more often. What great atmosphere, "best cheesecake in town" and live music at night! I'll be back! Checked out Controversial Kitchen on Commercial (which certainly fit the neighbourhood). It had its charms but the food was a bit repetitive, and pricey. Liked the hippie homey feeling though (it felt like we should be bringing out own dishes and then washing them as we left)...

Home Tweet Home

2010-05-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome! Bienvenue! Our transitions from the taken-for-granted benefits of Asian parents to once again living on our on two feet, as co-locs, this time in the heart and soul of downtown Vancouver (the geographic centre from coal harbour, to english bay, the west-end or yaletown) have been relatively smooth. Oddly enough, our moves from Vancouver to Japan and London were a lot less complicated and costly (moving into furnished places with little more than a couple suitcases full of clothes). While the traffic is a constant vroom outside our window with the occasional homeless/addict outbursts (not to mention the elephant-like stomps from our above neighbours), there is little to complain about in our urban oasis. I love the green of our "fireplace" and the white, wood, character features of the building. The abundance of 3 bunches for $5 on every street corner makes me think of a modern-day eliza doolittle, just trying to eke out a living. The light streams in so brilliantly. The kitchen is cozy and the old furniture a perfect fit! So far the african violets are alive, fertile fly breeding grounds. Old drapes find a new home. Soon to come, a photographic catalogue of the neighbourhood (googlemaps streetview eat your heart out)- It really isn't just that our new home is great, but the diversity of neighbourhood, community and housing!

Heritage & the Arts: Inaugural Long Table Social @ the Page Building

2010-05-05T17:24:00.000-07:00

Is Vancouver a city that lacks a real openness when it comes to the arts scene? Are we so small and incestuous that everyone has their role and place, and any newcomers are seen as invading territorial boundaries? We can compare ourselves all we want to the big city depth of New York, London or Tokyo but what I've learned is that we are what we are... and we're changing and growing, slowly finding our own personality amongst all the trees and ocean and mountains. I applaud A. for this first attempt at bringing together the arts communities which exist within Vancouver's city limits; arts, heritage, film.... The turnout was pretty good (very much on time at 7pm) and the evening progressed with a few talks, film screenings and performances. Though, I left midway to have some real grub at the deliciously understated film-set cozy-chic Pourhouse, we returned for the dedicated few, Chambar beer and curiosity. These are pics of the before scenes where the building is gloriously visible. That was one thing missing from the evening; a little more of a heritage bent.... next time! Lovely staircase to the top floor. The awesome vault! Apparently they wanted to use it for the bar, but alas, no access! Posters including the great presence of Celluloid Social Club. Dj's view Where N and I volunteered outside in the ccccold.. yes, this way- it's the entrance, down the walkway to nowhere...

Views from the Penthouse Marine Building (1930)

2010-05-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

I've been helping out on the admin side of things with the Heritage Vancouver Society for the past year or so, and while the walking tours have been fun, I was definitely thrilled to be a volunteer for this now annual "Marine Building Penthouse Tour and Reception" graciously provided by Urbanics Consultants Ltd. who currently occupy the Penthouse office space (lucky ducks!). It was a stunning Wednesday evening in April when we heritage-lovers assembled in the grand yet narrow main entrance of the Marine Building at 255 Burrard Street. J, A, and I were welcomed in by Urbanics' super-friendly assistant to the Penthouse itself then we headed back to the lobby to soak in the details. Everyone arrived on time (or early), so Don began the tour. I missed out on the details of that, but once we were back upstairs, rushing about with the keys for the main elevators and the original one to the Penthouse (tiny, slow and claustrophobic). Mingling with wine and hors d'oeuvres were enjoyed by all, and we simply enjoyed the view! One could imagine how different it would have been gazing out across the "city" of Vancouver, the tallest building at the time. Looking out now, the view has been framed by the newest skyscrapers at the Coal Harbour waterfront (Fairmont, Shaw, Convention Centre). Don gave another brief bit of background on the building itself, and the history of the designer and his family who lived in the Penthouse (hence why the space feels and remains like a home- tiled washroom, living room, kitchen), and Chuck Davis also gave a cheery account of the Marine Building's special status as a Vancouver art deco icon! People lingered beyond the 8pm end time, dazzled by the height and elegance of the surroundings? We were all a little giddy with the experience of a bit of old glamour.... even the new revolving elevator sculptures on Burrard seemed to fit in with the streetscape.

One Month Later

2010-05-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

April is conspicuously absent from my sporadic blog updates. Funnily enough, I aim to write, pause and reflect more often, but once life gets in the way, there is no trace of what I've done. April was the busiest and perhaps most frantic month of 2010, yet it's a blank. And once again, writing in May- I look back instead of forward. Living in the moment is sure a lot harder than it should be! But what a month it was! From finding a place to live in one afternoon to car-ferrying our precious cargo to and fro, mattress, TV, internet/PVR- the essentials of living on our own... Sigh... Life in the centre of downtown is good. A few pics of our place (sans furnishings): the living room windows, shiny varnished hardwood. Out the kitchen window on a rainy evening. Our first dinner at home! Of the different homes I've lived in for the past 5 years, it feels a little like London and Vancouver with souvenirs of Japan!

Dancing at the Cultch: Ole!

2010-03-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

Despite weekly rehearsals to perfect our performance pieces, the thrill and unpredictability of actually performing is always our best teacher. For our third performance with Tambura Rasa (a talented music-fusion local band), we had "rehearsals" which never really gave us the full depth of the music or a beat to go by... but that's what keeps things interesting! It's live! We began with a new bulerias and luckily the audience never knew what was going on in our heads:) The music was so amplified, we couldn't hear ourselves or any beat. But the show must go on, so blinded by the light (feeling like deer in the headlights), we managed to get through the piece with gusto (phew!)... but what an experience! Luckily the sevillanas went off nicely (but the audience members were awfully close!) The Cutch's renovation is stunning and it was wonderful to be able to see the backstage workings, enjoy the view from the stage, and mingle with some chocolate stout in the wine bar and lobby. Thank goodness this gem of a heritage arts building is thriving!

Corner Suite Bistro- Simply French!

2010-03-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

Thursday March 25th was an intense day of french cuisine (and dining out for life). Though I'm going in reverse order, Corner Suite Bistro being the dinner after Simply French, this establishment has also been in sight for the past few months.I had low expectations of the place (considering how many restaurants have tried and failed to "make it" at the Smythe and Thurlow location, not steps away from our new digs!), hoping that our "neighbourhood" spot would be good enough to drop in whenever necessary. Luckily, despite the black/colour/chandeliers/men's club feel that's taking over the city, we were pleasantly pleased with the cuisine and wouldn't mind trying more. (Thanks A, for keeping your identity a mystery!) A decent Croque Mademoiselle A generous "small" portion of steak tartare A delectable beef carpaccio On a drizzly grey afternoon, with an hour to fill at leisure, I always opt for atmosphere and caffeine (if possible). Simply French on 10th has been on the radar for a while now, and despite friends' best efforts to meet there, it's never materialized. So that one dismal afternoon, my time could not have been better spent or timed for a 10th avenue visit (en route to the macs at UBC). A friendly owner, cozy & chic, white and woods, a revolving chandelier and an extremely satisfying coffee, carrot-squash soup and homemade cookie ($8 total): simply relaxing! (practicality seems to win over presentation with the bulk size kirkland salt and pepper shakers:P)

Big Buzz

2010-03-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

With the springing forward of time, sunny mornings and late afternoons, and the bright blooms of daffodils will convince even the grumpiest cynic that summer's arrival are only a few barefoot steps away..... Though I'm still in my wool and knits, time is marching ahead. Checked out the Craft exhibition at the Museum of Vancouver (where? you ask- by the crab fountain)....... These knit, wooden and metal planes were a fanciful bit of arts that I'd love to replicate. Incidentally, I finally applied for my new simplified renewal passport due to be sent in a few weeks (New York and Jordan, here I come!) Got all a-buzz for Hive3 at the Great Northern Way Campus last Friday night. With good reviews I was anxious to see what it was all about.... Upon entering the warehouse space, the "audience" has to figure out how to get into various plays taking place throughout the night, each tucked away in a part of the main room- I felt a bit like a worker bee- frenzied and buzzing about, looking for the Queen show, following others, feeling confused, and forced to do my own dance... We managed to find our way into a good many: Ana (records were our tickets, and the one woman show was a wonderfully intimate experience with stevie wonder and the analogue, skunked was a kookoo take at a kids' suicidal tendencies being treated by a therapist duo in skunk and monster outfits (we were lead to the space by a boudoir-bedecked lady carrying teddy bears), frisk was another odd one where we had headphones on, and had to follow instructions including frisking and massaging strangers and repeating whatever they told us to say out in the common area (we got gold stickers at the end:P), house/home also involved headphones for practical reasons as we watched a dysfunctional relationship from the street level, though we all had a key to get in...., napathy was a crazy bit of spoofing that was a good laugh though left everyone a little puzzled... took a big break, watch someone get their head shaved off in "reverse-auction"... Then N got super lucky, being one of 5 chosen for the Electric Company's Dick and Jane. This was a standout and a highlight that really made the evening for us. I shouldn't really try to even describe the experience as it was that, if you were to "script" it, you would have to have the complete film interview and then describe the scene.... What an experience it was- and I was lucky enough to be taken "behind the scenes" to watch the film/theatre unfold before me! Waiting in line for half-price tickets to Nixon in China, I received a text..... HAVE YOU BEEN TO TWO CHEFS AND A TABLE? YOU WOULD LOVE IT! N and I had just been mulling over where to eat for lunch so this was the perfect timing.. We headed over to East Alexander street to find this delightful spot!! Confirming once again, how great pockets of communities exist around the city, and hidden delights are just around the corner. So the actual food wasn't standout (at least my classic eggs, bacon, potatoes) but what a neat spot! We'll be back to the industrial/artsy port area! A sweetly sunny afternoon where I finally got to Van Dusen. Spent an hour sunning myself on the rocks by the babbling brook and buzzing giant bees!