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.

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.

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!

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. 

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.

home.

Oh my goodness, when did October get here? It's one of my favourite months of the year for many reasons...

1. Canadian Thanksgiving (I'm en route home to Kelowna now) 

2. Halloween (duh) 

3. My birthday (duh x2) 

4. This year, I'm travelling! 

In all technicalities, I'm only in Vancouver for 16 days this month. This is the first year in many that my entire family is in the same province, much less the same town, for Thanksgiving. 

In a little over two weeks, I'm off to Toronto and New York City for one of my best friend's weddings, teaching several masterclasses and take in a couple shows I'm dying to see. 

I want to know...what are your must-do and see things in NYC? I'm coming from a dance perspective, so that's always a bonus. 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! 

kitsilano.

When I first moved to Vancouver, I really felt the need to rebuild my "people" - not just friends, but those around you in local businesses to help you get beautified, inside and out. 

I'm very lucky to have found home in Kitsilano, a beach neighbourhood near the University of British Columbia, located close to West 4th Avenue. When I moved in, I didn't realize how much my life would take me around the city, but there's something about crossing the bridge and coming home that brings a huge sense of relaxation. 

That...and a few of these businesses also help: 

Best Wine Store: Broadway Wine Shop: (2752 West Broadway) 

Not only is there a divine collection of interesting wines, they hold the BEST tastings each week on Sunday afternoon. 

The owner, Marty, knows everyone by face and/or name, and I've often run into him around the neighbourhood with the biggest smile on his face. He's never steered me wrong on a wine choice. 

Plus, the cork wall art is the coolest thing, ever. 

Best Salon: Bare Wax Bar 

(Two locations: 1828 West 1st + 101-2065 West 4th) 

I stumbled on Bare while exploring my neighbourhood and walked in for a brow appointment. I've never been to another salon or wax bar since. The owner, Kimmy, is divine, and has created a beautiful, clean, and welcoming environment with wonderful staff. 

Sati has been my main girl since that first walk-in, and she now greets me with a hug. Some days, you really need it! I also highly recommend getting a pedicure at their beautiful new West 4th location. 

Best Boutique: beautybar (2142 West 4th Ave) 

There was once a point in my life when I wanted to be a visual merchandiser (I guess I do that now with movement...i.e. dance) but I've always LOVED looking at boutique windows. 

beautybar has everything fit for a girly-girl like me - local and unique bath products, jewelry, makeup, cards, candles, etc. Although you might think a boutique must have clothes, I beg to differ. Plus, if you're looking for the perfect "little something" as a gift, you're covered here. 

(PS I'm currently lusting after that purple skull in the bottom left corner of the photo - it's a candle) *hint hint* 

Best Float: Halsa (2028 West 4th Ave) 

It's no secret, I love to float. Over the past year, I've found it the most effective method to a) relax and b) help any and all injuries. 

Halsa is a beautiful, open space and a the Genesis Float Pods have both a option for complete sensory deprivation or with gentle light and calming music. 

I dare you to try a float. You'll be hooked.

Best Restaurant: Maenam (1938 West 8th Ave) 

I feel like giving the title "Best Restaurant" in Vancouver is the equivalent of winning an Oscar. In my humble opinion, Maenam is one of the best places you'll eat, ever. 

I had my birthday party there last year and was floored by the diverse takes they had on Thai cuisine, interesting cocktails and service for myself and my friends. I'm seriously thinking about ordering pickup right now...

There we go! What are your favourite small or local businesses in your neighbourhood? 

tour.

'Tis the witching time of the summer.

I love this part of the year. The days are hot, and the evenings are a welcome relief from the heat. Every day is open to possibilities...meetings turn into hangouts, we end up waiting that extra hour for a happy hour patio.

Life is just lovely in the summer.

At the beginning of the year, a close friend of mine asked if I wanted to join in on an order for a Day Designer. My gut said yes before I even knew what I was getting into. A few weeks later a beautiful little box arrived.

The first few pages are tough. You work through your goals, values, emotions and so much more on paper. I remember sitting down in a crowded coffee bar on a rainy day with a newspaper, Americano and pen, ready to attack.

Only a few minutes into my planned "planning" session, I found myself way too overwhelmed and had to step back. A few days later I dove back in and found out a completely different path awaited me that I had hinted at loving, but was rearing it's head.

I won't get into the nitty gritty, but one of the reoccurring statements was about traveling and teaching. Combining those two together - a teaching tour is in the works.

Six months later, I'm on the eve of heading to the Okanagan to teach in two different cities, several classes for the City of Kelowna, Army of Sass and perform in a wedding flash mob proposal for a couple.

It's true, once you speak something out - whether it's vocal, written, etc. things happen. Your brain is triggered to start responding and putting into action what you really want.

Just a thought. Here we go!

full.

And just like that...things can change rather quickly.

There are always going to be months where one is feasting, and others when you're fasting.

In some areas, business will be booming. Others, falling apart.

You start to do things you never thought you'd do, but ended up loving.

Change is coming and it's always for a reason.

I'm taking this full moon as a sign. Wait it out, take things as they come and look at each day as an opportunity to expand, try something new and reach for the stars.

Sunday thoughts.

PS - I'll be back to Toronto for a wee visit, my birthday and a wedding in October! You best know there'll be some dancing happening.

summer2015.

Everything I'm into right now.