curves.

'Tis a witching week my friends. Come dance with me! 

Tuesday - Dangerous Curves at Vancouver Burlesque Centre (7PM) 

Wednesday - Jazz Tech (5:30PM) and Jazz Choreography (6:30PM) at iDance Vancouver 

Thursday - Sass Class (North Vancouver) at Perform Arts Dance Studio (8:15PM) 

For more information or to find out about other classes + shows, take a peek at my website. 

lifestyle.

This the longest I've been in Kelowna on vacation (rather than Christmas holidays) in awhile. It's lovely.

I feel myself slipping back into the casual, easy breezy lifestyle of the Okanagan.

It's always interesting coming back. When I was in high school, I couldn't wait to get out of here...but now each time I return as an adult, I almost don't want to leave again.

I feel a lot of clarity and space when I'm here. The things that seemed to matter so much in Vancouver, Toronto, life, relationships, blah blah blahhhhhhhh all become super clear on what really matters.

I'm finding myself making faster (and better) decisions, feeling better and stepping back.

When we chat about "recharging our batteries" and having a rest, I truly feel that here.

Yesterday I saw an old, dear friend who gave me my first tarot card reading. It was beautiful, scary, enlightening and was exactly what I needed to hear.

Ultimately things are coming to down to making space...I've been feeling and intense and big draw back to the pool. It's not just because the Olympics are on (although I love watching the swimming competition every day so far), but I want back in the water.

Yesterday it became very clear what I want and need to do moving forward into the next few months to keep on my path, keep being creative and going the distance.

But for now, I'll sip my beer outside, stream the Olympics and enjoy this beautiful Kelowna sunset.

Have a wonderful rest of the week.

flamingo.

"So stop waiting for Fridays,

and stop waiting for summers,

and stop waiting for someone to fall in love with you,

because those things will happen.

But in the meantime, enjoy right now"

- Lucy Sutcliffe

glow.

I'm currently in hibernation.

This past two weeks have been amazing, wonderful, insane, divine and full of magic.

"From Bond with Love" was all I dreamed it could be, and more. I can't even begin to describe the feelings that I've still having after the show.

I feel the post-show glow!

However, this week, I've stepped back. I'm teaching and working, but when I'm not, I'm reserved and in hiding.

When I'm ready to come out, I'll be there.

For now, I'm staying back. I'm going to take these moments of "freedom" and just be for a few more days.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your support over the past few months. I'm truly honoured and on top of the world. I'll see you on the other side.


PS - Currently listening to Man Repeller's new Podcast: "Let Loose".

*Do it - it only takes 10 minutes*

Xo
-P.

tmw.

It's always over so fast.

Two years of processing and dreaming about a project // show. Hours upon hours in the studio...all for 1.5 hours over three nights on stage.

I'm thrilled to see my James Bond show come to life and my characters blossom on the stage. It's been a trip and a huge learning experience working as a producer this time.

As we head into the final hours before our final curtain call and I'm soaking up every moment.

I have no idea what tomorrow is going to feel like. The last time I was this deeply integrated into a project, I cried all day and was a mess. Other shows, I was so ready to be done.

However, this one doesn't feel finished quite yet. I think there might just be an opportunity to go a little further. We'll see.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart for all the love, support, advice and assistance with bringing "From Bond with Love" alive.

bond.

La vie est belle. 

There are things we can't always explain. Nor should we. 

There are moments that take your breath away when you least expect it. 

There are times when everything starts to come together. Sometimes, things fall apart. 

I'm one week away from debuting my first full show as a producer + I'm over the moon. I'm so proud of my dancers, the process, this story and everything. 

I know I'm going to feel a huge void after 7 months of work. It's inevitable. It's going to hurt. Maybe I'll be ready for it to be finished. Maybe not. 

Either way, it's a major step as an artist and performer. 

See you on the other side my friends. 

delicate.

This is one of my favourite times of the year.

It's that breath just before we plunge into summer.

 We've been blessed with some beautiful weather in Vancouver this year, and for the first time in a long time, I'm planning on taking a bit of time this summer to recharge and reset.

I so enjoy the sun being up until 9PM (or later), that warm breeze that still lingers in the evening, and we're just more willing to stay out for that extra glass of wine, take a walk along the water, or be silly.

It's the delicate time of year where projects are about to end, and other are about to begin.

As part of the "step back" plan (and only working really when I need to be 150% on it, I know it sounds weird, but it's so much more effective for me),

I'm going to buy more peonies, finish my glass of rose, and dream more about costumes for my show. I'm not stressed, I'm blessed beyond belief.

Have a wonderful weekend.

calm.

Ahhh...morning.

These past few weeks have been full to the brim with work, of the best kind.

I made a special trip back to the Okanagan to see my high school's dance program take their final bow (this was the final year for their annual dance show), teach a plethora of classes across the region, and one of my best friends proposed to me...to be her bridesmaid next summer!

Life in the fast lane is fun, but it catches up to you. After hitting the ground running last week dancing, teaching and in preparation for my two upcoming shows, I hit the wall.

Many entrepreneurs will tell you they work all the time. I confess, I'm one of them.

I usually have an "off" button to click into my personal life, but sometimes it has to be pushed aside, especially when your timetable is different each day.
I don't find it stressful, just busy!

During my intensive in L.A., Galen Hooks said it best - she drinks, thinks, processes, breathes dance all day.  I'm in the same place.

Literally everything right now in my life is moving towards a few goals in the artistic realm.

One being producing a show, but there are a few more that are still in the back of my mind I'm hoping can come to fruition.

This morning (and over the next few days) I'm taking a step back.

I've been so concerned with creation a high quality piece of art that I've forgotten to have a little bit more fun.

Isn't that why I got into this all in the first place? Duhhhhh Portia. 

From my bed, a large coffee in hand, and some Stevie Wonder playing in the background - good morning.

I'm taking this moment before heading into meetings and rehearsal this afternoon.

Life is good. Things don't need to be done at this exact second - one day at a time.

Have a wonderful week loves.

maaay.

In the wise words of JT - it's going to be Maaaaaaay. 

Over the last 3 years, May has always been a month of surprises, work, travel and change for me. In 2013, I was in Vancouver for a hot minute and it convinced me to sell everything I owned and move! 

These past few weeks have been nothing short of lovely. Busy, especially with producing my first show with The Lovers Cabaret and teaching more than ever, but all good. 

Here are a few of my favourite shots from my travels (all taken on iPhone!) 

Fresh blooms in my neighbourhood.

Night at Kits Beach.

Volunteering and cheering on the babes at the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival. 

A roomie date night at Ballet BC. 

Is this place even real? Stumbled upon Paradise Cove in Malibu, CA.

My friend's Malibu home - I call it "The Secret Garden"

Views from above. Zuma Beach.

Excuse me while I kiss the sky. North Hollywood. 

Pin-up's and palm trees en route to the dance studio. 

Mantras at Movement Lifestyle Dance Studio. 

A killer weekend working with Galen Hooks one-on-one in Los Angeles! 

lalaland.

Hello from the other side!

Since April 1, I've been out of town and travelling for work, dance and pleasure approximately 28 days. Holy smokes.

It hit me the other day that last year I was writing out goals as part of new year's circle and I found myself continually writing down and vocalizing that I wanted to teach, dance and travel more.

Well, here we are. I got home from Los Angeles this past Monday and went straight into work all week. This included teaching and choreographing my feet off, as well as assisting to produce both my Army of Sass and The Lovers Cabaret shows this June and July.

This coming Tuesday, I'm packing my bags again and heading home(ish) to Kelowna to teach at my old high school, a couple masterclasses and connect with my friends out there.

Hard work pays off. Finally, so many things are coming together. They aren't perfect, by any means. I'm learning to deal with things on a totally different level as a producer and leader, not just a dancer.

I feel strong in my decisions. I feel valid. This work is good and I'm stoked to be doing it.

Also...Los Angeles rocked my world.

I'm still processing a lot of what I learned, saw and attempted. But to say the least, Galen Hooks gave me that extra push to conquer some major habits and break them. (See more about that on my Instagram).

This entire year has been a big one for me. I've learned how much I can rely on myself and my skill set to make anything happen.

I know it sounds cheesy, but it's true.

Have a wonderful weekend. A glass of rose wine is calling my name!

showgirl.

There's no good way to put it - this week has made me feel extremely vulnerable.

A lot of hard work has come into a beautiful bloom. Since speaking out about six months ago that I wanted to be teaching more, not working a desk job as much, and creating my own show...it's all happened. And even better? Cool partnerships with artists and businesses that I value and really resonate with are also coming on board to make it even more vibrant.

I came out of the dance studio tonight and completely had a cry on the side of the street. In broad daylight no less!

I wasn't even sad. I wasn't happy. I wasn't upset.

I just felt like a little tank of water had filled up with a lot of emotions, and a few tears was the only way to let it overflow. Sometimes, I think that the same thing happens and I have fits of giggles.

As soon as it came, it passed. That release was exactly what I needed.

Lucky, I had one of my besties walk of the studio with me, put her arms around me and let me go through all those emotions. She supported me, let me have a moment, and didn't tell me how to feel. I'm eternally grateful for that - thank you M.

Tomorrow, I jet off to the City of Angels to dance for the weekend with a choreographer and 9 other dancers. I'm terrified, excited and ready to learn.

This week, we launched ticket sales from From Bond with Love this July at Fox Cabaret. It's happening! WHOA.

Next week, I head to Kelowna and Penticton to teach - what was supposed to be 2 classes turned into 10+ classes. DOUBLE WHOA.

Cheers friends. Let's do this. I'm ready.

apartmentday.

Bonjour May!

To steal a note // style from my wonderful friend Breanna of Sex and Sandwiches:

Currently listening: "Prisoner" by The Weeknd ft. Lana del Ray (listen here) 

Drinking: a glass of rosé wine. One ice cube. 

Sitting: at home.

Today is my first full day off since March 29. By full day off, I mean - no meetings, no calls, no rehearsals, no dates. 

Zip. Nada. Kapeesh. 

Well, my parental units are coming into town so I'll be having a rendez-vous with them, but that doesn't count. 

Since leaving my "day job" I've been to Terrace, B.C., Portland and all over the Lower Mainland teaching, dancing and enjoying the sights in-between. This morning, I relished in the glory of not setting an alarm, staying in my PJ's until 3PM, and my only chore being to go get a said wine that I'm enjoying now. 

I'm having what one of my good friends calls an "Apartment Day". That means, not leaving your home (unless for crucial supplies...again, the wine) all day. It's up there with one of the most glorious feelings one can experience. 

Like any good party girl, I like to go out every night of the week that I can. If someone invites me over for a drink, I'll be there. If there's a show happening, I'll find a way to get the money to go. Life is too short to stay home and watch Netflix. 

But there are are moments that I need to step back. I can feel it physically - especially now that I'm teaching and choreographing almost full-time. 

I felt it this weekend. I needed to take today to recharge my batteries. Take a moment. Soak in the nothing. The lull. The sunshine. The words of my book. 

Life is good. 

If you can, take an Apartment Day. I promise, it will feel lovely. 

places.

Oh the places you'll go.

I called my mother early in the morning from the Vancouver airport while waiting to board a 50-person flight to Terrace, B.C.

Since starting dance at the rec centre at the tender age of 4, I've never been very good. Even as I moved up into a studio, competed again dancers across California, performed in more shows and productions than you can shake stick at - I never quite had the "it" factor that some of my peers did.

But I LOVED to dance.

I would literally count down the hours at school until I got to rush to the studio, pull my hair into a bun and high kick my way to high heavens.

I'm so lucky that my parents believed in me and made my dreams come true - it was never in the plan to become a professional dancer (especially after my knee injury at 18), but life has shaken out this way, right now at least.

Calling my mother to tell her I was being flown up to teach and share my dance knowledge with another community was a way bigger prize than any of the trophies I never got at competition. Hearing her react on the other side of the line - her sigh, her breath, her smile - that made all that hard work worth it.

As we are 10 days away from Mother's Day...thank you Mom (and Señor Favro!) for driving me to all those classes, competitions, workshops, helping me with costumes, and sitting in dark theatres on hot sunny days. 

You've made my dreams come true, that I'm now living out. 

This past year, I've been or am going to Los Angeles, New York City, Terrace, B.C., Kelowna, Penticton, and beyond for dance-related work or classes. 

Thank you for everything. 

deep.

"I think there is a certain age, for women, when you become fearless. 

It may be a different age for every woman, I don't know. 

It's not that you stop fearing things: I'm still afraid of heights for example. Or rather, of falling - heights aren't the problem. 

But you stop fearing life itself. 

It's when you become fearless in that way that you decide to live. 

Perhaps it's when you come to the realization that the point of life isn't to be rich, or secure, or even to be loved - to be any of the things that people usually think is the point. 

The point of life is to live as deeply as possible, to experience fully. 

And that can be done in many ways." 

- Theodora Goss 

portiavsnature.

Portia versus Nature. Day 9.

Today I drove home from the dance studio in a truck, flabbergasted at the sunset glowing behind the mountians that surrounded me (literally 180 degrees) while the radio played country music.

How am I?

Yes, that's the Portia you all know. She's still in there.

Today was the first one since I arrived in Northern B.C. that I put on eye makeup and really properly did my hair (I had a video call with a client - girl's gotta look professional) - but there's something very interesting about stepping away from the "mask" we wear in the city.

I've learned a lot of things since I've been up here.

I've always been comfortable spending time along and always make a point to have "me" time, especially when my jobs are so social and interaction-based.

There's a whole different kind of solo adventure that happened to me this time - one I imagine some must have when they're travelling to a country by themselves.

But this solo-adventure has been in a low-stress situation, sharing my knowledge and trying new things each day. Without the added work of a different language, or customs, I've really found a place to settle in my mind.

I'll never take good WiFi or cell phone service for granted again.

Don't underestimate how many resources you have available at your fingertips. For example, there isn't even a Starbucks in Terrace...there's one on every other street in Vancouver and Toronto. Whenever I'm now looking for a costume piece, etc. I'll remember this.

However, there is a level of simplicity here. Less options, less stress, less rushing.

I will give it to them, I've had more time to plan, look ahead to the coming months and strategize how and how I want to attack them. With much more teaching on the table, I definitely caught my breath in my throat the other night (was it nerves?)

Then it occured to me, just like it did a couple years ago when I had a lot of things going on - this is everything I've always wanted, right? These are opportunities, not hinderers.

Last Fall, I remember thinking and manifesting that I wanted to be teaching more dance and working with students of all ages. Be careful what you wish for I guess, that's now basically my full-time job!

Along with that, I'll beheading to both Portland and L.A. in the next six weeks for both work, professional development and pleasure. I can't wait, and am very honoured to have both of the opportunities. More on that to come.

For now - I'm surviving my time in the woods. I'll be back to Vancouver late next weekend. See you on the other side!

nature.

Well, hello from Northern B.C.!

I'm up in Terrace, B.C. for a teaching contract over the next couple weeks (never fear, I'm back in Vancouver mid-April and will be teaching and running all my scheduled classes as per normal).

Life is definitely simpler here. I'm thoroughly enjoying not setting an alarm, working with dancers who are hungry for knowledge, and having access to a car to explore this sweet little town.

However, the most essential thing happened - I turned on the radio to the first news story at 4PM being about a wolf warning. Apparently they have a wolf problem with the animals coming a little too close to humans while in town.

I had to pull over the truck and have a good giggle. Then I looked out and checked for wolves.

It's made me start to think - having been a city girl almost all my life (I found Kelowna very, very small when I first moved there...) I wonder about the pros and cons about where we grow up.

I've often thought being a small town might be a great place to have space to run free, explore, be in nature, blah blah blah.

However, I do see the incredible benefit of my parents moving us to semi-large towns with access to a metropolitan area. The amount of history, dance classes, lessons, art, sports, etc. that you just get from being in a more populated area is unparalleled.

Of course, to each their own - and I'm not planning to start a family anytime soon - but it's definitely starting a conversation with myself.

Here we go - Portia vs. Nature, Day 4. I'm still alive, and the cat and dog at the house I'm staying at love to cuddle with me more than the pets I grew up with. Maybe fewer people around them makes their hearts grow founder.

That's all. Have a wonderful weekend.

top5.

It's been a hot minute since I've done a Top 5! The last couple months have been wild - but in the best of ways. New job, new projects, new show...I couldn't ask for more.

Before I head into a busy weekend, here are a few bits and pieces I've been dreamy about over the last bit.

Top 5 for March: 

Ranunculus flowers. 

Although peonies will hands down, always be my favourite flower. The ranunculus blooms have been sneaking into my heart over the last few weeks. 

Scarves. 

If money was no object, I'd be picking up one of these NYC-themed scarves to pair with a t-shirt and jeans on these early spring days. 

Laundry hacks. 

I've been taking a couple of these laundry hacks seriously, and they're making a difference! 

Dita von Teese. 

Next month I'll be heading to Portland to see the Queen of Tease perform. To say I'm excited is an understatement. 

Rose Quartz. 

A good friend gave me a piece of rose quartz last summer, and it's been by my bedside ever since. Although I don't consider myself spiritually connected to crystals, I do appreciate the messages and background information about what they mean. A few have come into my life for a few reasons, and are very, very special. 

Enjoy your Thursday night loves! 

mountain.

"You never know what's around the corner. 

It could be everything. 

Or it could be nothing. 

You keep putting one foot in front of the other, and then one day you look back and you've climbed a mountain." 

- Tom Hiddleston 

yorkkkkkkk.

"So I went to New York City to be born again. 

It was and remains easy for most Americans to go somewhere else and start anew. 

I wasn’t like my parents. 

I didn’t have any supposedly sacred piece of land or shoals of friends to leave behind. 

Nowhere has the number zero been of more philisophical value than in the United States…. 

and when the [train] plunged into a tunnel under New York City, with its lining of pipes and 

wires, I was out of the womb and into the birth canal."

-Kurt Vonnegut

I'm really, really feeling the above quote. Since Christmas, work has picked up like a wild thing (whooooa - how lucky am I?) I'm dancing as much as I did when I was in high school, when I really thought I was at my peak of my craft. It's busy, but life feels good. 

However, I still feel this pull to large cities. I love Vancouver and all the opportunities I am allowed to have here because we are in a smaller city. But I'm why am I dreaming of being somewhere performing as a small fish? 

Maybe it's the challenge. The beautiful experience I had. The freedom. 

We'll see. I'm excited to see how things shake out. 2016 has been divine so far...I can feel so much more good coming. Thank you universe, you rock.