noel.

There's something I love about airports...the anticipation of a new adventure, or the warmth of coming home.

This was the first Christmas Eve I spent away from my family. I've been very lucky over the last few years to make it home or be with my family for a couple days before Christmas. However, with how work panned out this year, I'm coming back tonight.

There was something very satisfying about spending the day alone (and rejuvenating myself after my roomie's birthday last night).

I wrapped presents, packed my bag, danced around my apartment singing along to Marvin Gaye, and watching friends around the world share holiday memories on social media.

Maybe this is really growing up. Maybe I'm okay with breaking tradition. Maybe (no...I am) okay with things not being perfect - that's life.

Alas, I made it to the airport in plenty of time, met up with a friend who's also en route home, had a champagne flight at a restaurant, and am settled into my gate. My flight is delayed for at least another hour, but that's okay.

I'm in the in-between, heading home and also off on a new adventure of travel and experience this Christmas. It's all good.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. Enjoy your time with loved ones this season.

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. 

bey.

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

top5.

Depending on how you look at it, opening up your calendar and seeing a month full of appointments, commitments and more can be either daunting or exhilterating. I tend to work better when I have absolutely too much on my plate, as it foreces me to balance my time perfectly. If something goes out of whack, my whole month will get thrown off.

However, I read an article about comedian Tina Fey and her secrets to success the other day, and her's is quite simple. Always, always say "yes".

This couldn't have come at a better times - I've been approached with some very unique opportunities this month. I'm saying "yes".

This also applies to things I want to do around my home. I've been in my new apartment for five months (wowza!) and I keep meaning to get little projects done or what not.

Thus, January's  Top 5 is dedicated to the home. 

Coffee Table. 

I'm a huge fan of the exqusitely talented Emily Schuman of the blog Cupcakes and Cashmere, and love this video she released this week. I'm on the hunt for a great coffee table tray that isn't too expensive. 

Gallery Wall. 

This challenge has been haunting me over the last few months. I have acuqired some art, but I'm very indecisive about what the hanging arrangement will be. Luckily, I found this nifty layout guide. 

Time to start experimenting! 

Accent Paint.

 

So simple. So effective. 

Typography. 

 

Christmas lights, a steady hand and an outlet. I'm thinking this might even be fun for my living space/room as well. Now the question is, what word do I choose? 

Patio Time. 

One of the things I was desperate for when I was looking for an apartment was somewhere with outdoor space. I have a sweet little backyard patio that will be divine once the warm weather comes back. 

I'm hoping to incorporate some more Christmas lights into the tree, and also have a little herb garden (is there anything better when you're cooking to go cut some fresh basil). Oh spring, come soon! 

Again, these are just some ideas. Fingers crossed I can get some of these little projects done before the warm weather arrives. 

Have an amazing weekend and enjoy! 

christmas.

May you have a merry little Christmas. 

I hope you are home (or away on a vacation!) and surrounded by loved ones. I'm lucky to be this year. 

Enjoy and happy holidays. 

class.

My Christmas break officially starts today.

In the past five days, I have taught 15 dance classes and choreographed a contemporary solo for one of my dancers for the upcoming competition season.

In-between all that, I've been lucky enough to meet up with friends and spend time with my family. It's amazing to walk into a room and know wholeheartedly that the people in it have your back, one hundred per cent, even if you're not in the same town.

I've had multiple requests about when I'll be back to teach/choreograph/work/visit etc., and I'm a definite "maybe" in the new year. There is an incredible opportunity in the spring that I'm hoping to make a special vist back for - stay tuned!

Hope you are enjoying your time surrounded by loved ones, nibbling on something sweet and playing some charming music. Take it all in - the holidays only come once a year!

zooey.

Humming this to myself as I'm en route to the airport. See you soon Kelowna!