on falling, gracefully...

It was a weekend of movement.  Ben and I travelled to Kelowna on Saturday so I could meet with a fabulous couple at their wedding venue and finalize the details of their July nuptials (so excited to share more on this) and we walked with the Daoust Nuts in the Kamloops MS Walk on Sunday!  Meanwhile, in Vancouver, my run-forest-run sister ran the BMo Marathon in under 4 hours. No big deal.

Ben and I took Bauer for a hike at our favourite park on Sunday afternoon and I proceeded to scrape up my leg and then slide/ trip/ stagger before rolling my (previously injured) ankle.  5 minutes later.  Thank goodness my dress is long.

I have several awesome posts lined up for this week so pop back over.  In the meantime, if you need me, I'll be in bed with an elevated & iced ankle.

Kamloops Film Festival: The Rundown

I went, I saw, I was moved.

Along with my movie-watching partner-in-crime Kelli, I attended 6 of the 14 films featured at this year’s Kamloops Film Festival. I must commend the Kamloops Film Society for compiling such a unique, thought-provoking collection of films; I thoroughly enjoyed my experience as an attendee. Furthermore, my popcorn addition was satisfied in full, so much so that I can go the next couple of weeks without it. Bravo.

Without further adieu, here are the films I attended:

Monsieur Lazhar:


This film moved me to tears on several occasions for its raw and beautiful look at the relationships formed between a teacher and his students. Aptly nominated as Canada's entry in best foreign-language film category at this year's Oscars, the film was also accepting 6 Genie awards the night we watched the film. So very cool. I recommend this film to anyone who respects the work of teachers and to anyone who needs to be reminded of the work of teachers.


The Whale:


This film shook me to my core. I barely have the words to describe how much this film touched me and I'm getting choked up just thinking about it. It is truly something you have to see to believe. My favourite of the series, bar none. I recommend this film to anyone. period.


Pina:


The film's namesake Pina Bausch said it best: "dance, dance otherwise we are lost." The extent to which she touched the lives of her students is so apparent that to watch the company's touching performances of her choreography is to understand the twisted creative genius that was Pina Bausch. A stunning dedication. I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates the arts in all ways, shapes, and forms.


Melancholia


When we walked out of this film I turned to Kelli and asked "wtf?" To substantiate this reaction, take the film's pitch: "a beautiful movie about the end of the world" and understand it delivers on both accounts. This is why my initial reaction was so difficult to describe. Film viewers who enjoy symbolism would eat this film up as it requires the viewer to leave logic at the at the door and be transported by the story. Kirsten Dunst was fantastic; I haven't enjoyed watching her act this much since The Virgin Suicides. I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates masterful cinematography and eerie yet beautiful stories.


Martha Marcy May Marlene


This film was haunting, it made me angry at parts, and I loved it. The title character is developed through glimpses from the past weaved in with the life she attempts to reclaim in the present. All the while the story demands the viewer's attention. I can't say enough about Elizabeth Olsen who has proven herself as a talented actress. I recommend this film to anyone who loves indie films and cult classics.


A Separation


I understand how this film won Best Foreign Language Film honours at both the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. The performances of the father Nader and his daughter Termeh are raw and moving. Symbolism runs deeply through this story as it explores family, sacrifice, integrity, and honour. It is truly a beautiful film. I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates the layers that make up a family.


There you have it. I hope you have a chance to check out some of these films. What is the best movie you've seen as of late?




(Images courtesy of Kamloops Film Festival, Monsieur Lazhar, The Whale, Pina, Melancholia, Martha Marcy May Marlene , A Separation).

Healing Hearts

I wanted to share a few photos from the Healing Hearts fundraiser event that took place in Kamloops on March 3. The night was full of many laughs and a few - aptly chosen - songs. Proceeds from the evening went to the RCMP Victim Services unit who help families as they face tragedy.

The night also marked the first time Lisa McCauley took to the stage since her husband Jim was killed. Lisa was glowing as she delivered material that had every single person in the house laughing, some until they were crying. She showed immense strength in her ability to deliver a performance that was beautiful, touching, and altogether hilarious. My favourite photos of the night are from when her three boys jumped on the stage at the end of her performance and showered her with flowers and hugs.

I feel so blessed to have been in attendance; my heart was warmed by the experience. Lisa, you are awesome. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.

Kamloops Film Festival

Tonight I will be attending the opening night of the 16th Annual Kamloops Film Festival. I caught two great films last year and, since I was disappointed that I didn't get to more, I've planned my life around the next week of films.

The Oscar-nominated film Monsieur Lazhar opens the festival this evening and after seeing the trailer and reading the synopsis I am so excited to take it in. Have you seen this film?

Kamloops friends: care to join me?

follow Kamloops Film Festival
on facebook: facebook.com/KamloopsFilmFestival + twitter: @kamfilmfest



(Image courtesy of the Kamloops Film Festival Facebook Page).

Lisa McCauley

My dear friend Lisa is an amazing mother, a thoughtful friend, and a hilarious comedienne. She is one of my favourite people on this earth and last night she was featured on Global BC. Lisa was interviewed by Mike McCardell and spoke about life without her husband Jim, the father of their three boys who was killed in a car accident late last year. A loss like this leaves the type of pain that you'd never wish upon anyone; the type of pain that, as a friend, you can only begin to imagine.

As can be identified in the short news clip, Lisa is an absolute inspiration and one hell of a mother. Further proof of her remarkable strength is in the fact that she is taking to the stage this Saturday for Healing Hearts With the Magic of Laughter and Song, a fundraiser benefitting the Kamloops RCMP Victim Services group. The fact that she is taking to the stage is amazing on many levels; however, to know Lisa is to understand that she is a giver and taking part in a fundraising benefit that will inevitably help people in her very shoes is just in her nature.




This Saturday Lisa will be doing what she does best: spreading love and bringing laughter to everyone in her presence. Jim, her biggest fan, will be so proud of her. The rest of us will definitely laugh, probably cry, and continue to be inspired by her.

Lisa wrote a book that I think everyone should read. Visit her website to learn more.




(video clip courtesy of Global BC, event poster courtesy of Kamloops Convention Centre).

Ladybird Reunion.

What are you up to this weekend?

Five of my beautiful friends are coming to Kamloops to spend the weekend and I couldn't be more excited. Our plan is to complete a few last minute projects for this pretty lady (who is walking down the aisle next weekend - eek!), try out a few delicious recipes, and indulge in a cocktail or two.

It's been a crazy few weeks but I've managed to compile a growing collection of favourite links:

• Everyone should try this homemade end-of-summer body scrub. Trust me, it's worth it; you'll feel like a million bucks.


• I've wanted a bookcase with a secret door since I was a child. These two are perfection.


• Remember when I gushed over my new obsession, Instagram? Well I found information on how to print them in real time and here is a site that creates beautiful mini books (& magnets & posters & mini prints!)


• Wouldn't you love to cozy up in any one of these spaces?


• Meet my new favourite foodie blog. Yum.


• I still LOVE this colour palette.


• These chairs look so comfortable. (Officially added to my wish list).


• This photo makes me so excited to see Sam's bridesmaids next Sunday! Horray for grey dresses + nude heels.

Psst... in case you feel like "liking" something today on facebook, check out C Star Events' page. I'd be awfully happy to have you.

Happy Weekending.



(Photo by Miranda Karkling).

Caravan Farm Theatre

Living in the fair city of Kamloops has many-a-perk, one of which is the thriving arts community. To date I have been to several theatre and film festivals and countless live - and usually free - music events throughout the city. Another hidden gem of the area is the Caravan Farm Theatre company (located approximately 1.5 hours outside of Kamloops). This summer they are presenting William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream - one of my very favourite plays.

The first show was last night (in the rain!) and it runs until August 21. I definitely will be dragging someone to this production at some point this summer; my only hope is that the weather is better than it was last night as the shows run rain or shine. (What troopers)!

To learn more about the history of the company or for tickets visit the Caravan Theatre website.


So... who wants to go?



(show poster courtesy of Caravan Farm Theatre).

Cole.

I am so excited to see this film tonight as a part of the Kamloops International Film Festival. Cole was filmed in Lytton, BC, and has received critical acclaim across North America; it was an official selection at the Toronto Film Festival and one of the Sundance Selects. The soundtrack is also fantastic.



What is the best film you've seen lately?

Away I go

This quote embodies my mantra these days.

I'm raring to go and chomping at the bit, enjoying every minute of this course + the inspiration it brings from this woman.

It's so refreshing to challenge myself in a new way + through new mediums. I'm getting my hands dirty and throwing inhibitions to the wind and it's all kinds of awesome.

This weekend: Jillian is here for a visit and we are in need of a weekend of catching up, drinking wine, eating delicious food, and laughing hysterically. I.Can't.Wait. A trip to Sun Peaks is also on the docket (if the rain holds off).

What are your plans for the weekend? Is it really September 17th already?!


Photo of this print courtesy of Mr Yen

Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup

When I received word of this event via my monthly WWF Panda Mail I began arranging plans to be in Vancouver to take part + cleanup the coastline. To my delight, I discovered that there are 100's of 'Cleanups' taking part all over the province (+ country) along our many lakes, rivers, and ponds!


Although the Kamloops Cleanup isn't until the 22nd, Vancouverites can take part starting this weekend!

Search for the clean up nearest you, here.


Bring your gloves, bring your kids, and bring your love for the natural beauty that is Canada.


Rock on, mother earth.

Have a fantastic weekend.


Photos via the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup event page

Kate Morgan

Photo via Kate's MySpace page.

Emerging talent alert!
I have had this catchy song in my head ever since the lineup of Lilith 2010 was announced and I was introduced to singer/songwriter Kate Morgan. Imagine my surprise when I found out she was from Kamloops... and only 17!

: : Have a listen: Lovin' You by Kate Morgan : :

Don't you think this song would be fantastic for a couple's wedding video?

Her EP is awesome and can be found in shops around Kamloops or on iTunes. This pretty young songstress is destined for greatness.

Website. MySpace.

Sunday Sweetness {xxi}

This morning I walked 5 kilometres with some wonderful people in support of a wonderful cause. It was an inspiring morning and a memory I won't soon forget. I want to thank all of the people who supported our team by donations, well wishes, and moral support. Our Team Captain, Janet, is a remarkable woman and it felt great to be able to do this in support of her and all others living with this disease.

If you'd like to become involved, donate, or learn more about Multiple Sclerosis, please visit their site.

As they say, every step matters.

Cupcake Love

Big Love goes out to my friend Megan who made B. a batch of fabulous black forest cupcakes for his b-day (his favourite cake in cup form: what's not to love). I took them into his office this evening and they were a huge hit - thanks Megan!

Notes: If you are in the Kamloops area and require culinary talents, please contact this woman; if you like cupcakes, check out this site (via A Cup of Joe).