dorian.

"Don't be afraid. 

There are exquisite things in store for you. 

This is merely the beginining." 

- Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray

glitters.

\

Some lovely things. Just a few thoughts. 

mexico.

During this "no mans land" time of the year - Chrismtas holidays and that spirit are over, but NYE has not yet come - the snow has finally started to fall in B.C.

However, I find myself daydreaming more and more about upcoming travel and trips in 2014. I'm thrilled to be going to Mexico for a friend's wedding, and I would love to incorporate another visit to NYC later in the year.

For now...I've got bathing suits, warm weather, sunglasses and bright colours on my mind. Only a few more months to go.

I hope you're enjoying your winter vacation // holiday time with those you love. Cheers.

eves.

The perfect recipe for Christmas Eve? 

A good holiday album. I'm personally loving She & Him's, "A Very She & Him Christmas" 

An extra cup of coffee with Bailey's. 

Soaking in quiet moments at home with family. Add a Christmas movie or binge-watch a Netflix series for extra comfort. 

Wishing you a divine holiday. Merry Christmas. 

abode.

Home. Home. Home. 

Home has changed a lot...physically quite a bit in the last few years (yay for apartment dwellers) but also emotionally. 

Every year, coming "home" for the holidays changes. Sometimes it's to the place my parents and other family members are living. Other years it's far away from it all. 

There have been many Christmas's over the last seven years where one or more of my siblings or I have been away or needed to leave year because of a work commitment, et cetera. This year, one of my brothers is working at a ski hill, several of my friends are in and out of town with family commitments, and couples are splitting their time in-between two provinces or cities.

We're growing up. 

Since moving in 2013, I found a place for my roots to be nourished to grow. I've noticed a drastic change in my behaviour and attitude this holiday season. Other years, I've run around like a mad woman socializing, laughing, leading workshops and honestly, having a grand 'ol time. Bcak then, that's how I sought comfort and stability.

I know it's freaking corny, but home this year is with the people I love.

Since I've been back, I've been hanging closer to home. My dearest of friends, family and I have a couple little traditions and social engagements, but they're very personal and small. 

Merry Christmas friends. May you have a beautiful holiday season. 

awkward.

As a writer, I'm constantly trying to keep up with what my peers, friends and mentors are reading and writing on the interweb.

Recently, I stumbled across a wee blogger trend called, "Awkward and Awesome". Basically, a fun-facts kind of list for your readership.

Secrets, secrets are so fun when you're a part of one - right?

Oh dear, here we go. My first:

Awkward and Awesome #1

AWKWARD 

- I truly love the scent of men's deodorant and several colognes. I must admit, as much as fresh cucumber and mint is lovely for us ladies, there's something about that musty smell that just gets me

- People still say "woot woot". Guilty as charged. 

- Naked pregnancy photos. Just, no. 

- Getting so into a song on your iPod you decide to strut down the street. Then you get a leg cramp. 

AWESOME 

- Running into friends you haven't seen in far too long on a busy street. 

- Improvising and making a personal homemade French onion soup in less than 1 hour. 

- Really, really digging crochet bathing suits at the moment. 

- One very sexy night out. That's all. 

Just trying something new...little tasting of personality never hurt. 

Have a beautiful evening. 

me.

Looking back at the last year, this has been one of the most defining eras of my life, so far.

2013 was hard. I realize now that back then I was incredibly sad and probably a bit depressed about several things happening in and around my life. However, I felt like I had little power to change things.

I allowed and made myself be and act very small.

However, after visiting Vancouver and decided to move a few weeks later, I found myself starting to soften.

The things I kept so secret and private were public - by choice - and my passion and hobbies were starting to turn into a full-blown career.

I felt my roots start to solidify. I could do this. I can be the person and dancer I always wanted and dreamed I could be.

As you well know, several important performance opportunities came up this past year that challenged me physically, emotionally and mentally. It wasn't all sunshine and roses, but as an artist and performer, you put on a brave face and go out to give it everything you have at that moment.

After all, the show must go on. 

A good girlfriend from Toronto joined me at a party this past weekend, and I was absolutely thrilled to introduce her to all my new friends and beautiful circle.

As we walked home, she said, "Portia, those people all take you for exactly as you are...just own it."

My word(s) and goals for 2015: Just do it. Be me. Be 150% just me.

No more people pleasing.

Thank you Vancouver for taking me for who I am...flaws, talents, successes and all.

Just a few thoughts. Sweet dreams.

bey.

Just a few bits and pieces of what I'm into at the moment. Have a good Saturday evening.