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.

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.

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.

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. 

2015.

Hat's off to you 2015...you rocked.

Thank you for a wonderful year of dance, work, shows, friendship, travel + so much more. This pin-up is off the grid until 2016. Stay tuned for fresh things a'coming!

Here are a few of my favourite moments.

Back To Basics - Army of Sass show with Alicia 

The Lovers Cabaret presents: SYN (Photo by Kristine Cofsky)

The Lalonde Wedding - Playa del Carmen, Mexico

My debut at Go-Go Bungalow at The Shameful Tiki Room 

Canada Day on the water 

Camping in Squamish, B.C. 

One of my besties since grade 11 in Kelowna.

Araxi Long Table Dinner at North Arm Farm. 

On set for "Howl" (short film) 

Shooting the Holiday 2015 campaign for Gloss Boudoir 

First trip back to Toronto since I moved. 

Soaking up New York City in October. Heaven.

The Lovers Cabaret presents: Lovers of Zeppelin

Guest performing in "Wonderland" for Army of Sass Kelowna + Whistler

My students from the Army of Sass Vancouver before our big show. 

nyc.

Oh New York. New York, NEW YORK.

I love you.

My trip out East was so needed, and absolutely the best for me. I saw colleagues, celebrated my birthday, witnessed a dear friend get married, lived in the middle of the Jays/Mets/Drake HLB/election high...and then went to explore and dance my face off in New York City.

Although I had moments when I questioned if I should be taking the time and money to do this trip, I'm so, so soooooo thrilled I bit the bullet to do it.

Part 2: I'm definitely heading back to NYC to audition for Company XIV. I'm addicted and in love with their work.

You can follow all my adventures on Instagram, but here are a few of my favourite moments from my trip. A must-do/see guide to NYC is coming soon!

My dearest friends at Shannon's wedding. 

The Six.

Teaching the Army of Sass Toronto Corporals with my OG dancers Meghan + Sam.

Manhattan owns #FlowersFriday. Hands down. 

Upper West Side - Alee + Tyson's apartment.

My fave people at the MET. 

Casually trucking around NYC with my friend Dallas (who's also from Vancouver!)

Since high school - my best friend Alee. 

Shake Shack is the food of Gods. Yes, this was breakfast one day. 

Got totally lost in Central Park. No complaints. 

Being a #basic pin-up in SoHo. 

thanksgiving.

Last year, one of my colleagues said to treat each day like it's Thanksgiving. 

That really stuck with me - I'm so healthy, happy and living my dream work-friends-passions-interest-wise. 

Last night, I took a step outside of my comfort zone and performed with another dance group in a very different venue, crowd and style then what I'm accustomed to. 

In turn, I ended up connecting with some absolutely fabulous women and gents (inside and out!) and was invited to Portland, Oregon to perform in the future. 

Needless to say, I'm thankful. 

Thankful for going with my gut. 

Thankful for the support of my friends and colleagues. 

Thankful to be one hundred per cent myself. 

As we head into the next week and Thanksgiving weekend in Canada (I'm heading back to Kelowna for some family time, and couldn't be more excited), I'm really reflecting and soaking in all that's happened this past year. 

Thanks universe. You've been awesome. 

amy.

Yesterday afternoon was fairly ordinary. I'd finished work and soaking in the sun, ready for the weekend.

My friend called me and asked if I wanted to head to see a matinee movie. Without second thought, I suggested seeing "Amy", the documentary about Amy Winehouse.

I've always been a big fan of her music, and if it's possible, I'm even more engulfed by Winehouse's sound, lyrics and story after the film. I loved the documentary truly focused on her artistry and wasn't afraid to go into the dark side of her life.

From working on documentaries and other news stories, it's always an interesting moment when you get into those interviews with profound characters in your story. More often than not, you'll have fairly average experience chatting with them.

But every once in awhile, you'll find a nugget that changes the entire direction of what you thought you were making.

Something else interesting that came up for me...Amy's look.

I remember my mother purchasing her first album, "Frank" and also "Back to Black" - we used to listen to them both on our drives to school, dance class, etc. My father also got Rolling Stone magazine, and I remember those couple of covers Amy graced.

As I look back at the timeline of my personal style, and why I'm drawn to a retro look, I think it started with her. I can see in photos that I started playing with flowers in my hair, experimenting with cat eyes, pin-up clothing and what not. I abandoned it for a couple years when I went to university, but now and back with full vengeance.

I used to think Bettie Page was my biggest influence, but I'm realizing this runs much deeper. The things were are drawn to early in life are certainly a calling - I always loved old jazz music and a vintage look/vibe. I think Amy really modernized and brought that to the forefront for my generation.

I'll likely never have enough hair for a beehive like hers, but you never know.

Just a thought. Have a good weekend.

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.

rest.

This is one of those few days that I have completely and utterly alone. 

Audrey Hepburn once said, "I have to be along often...that's how I refuel." 

Maybe it's because I grew up in loud, fun and wild family where there was always someone on the go, dogs running around, people listening to music, etc., that has made my gravitate to a city life. I love living and being around people, bouncing off ideas, spending time together and having a partner in crime. 

This past 10 months has changed me in a bigger way than I think I can even comprehend. There's always someone asking me a question or for advice, which I'm more than happy to assist with or direct in the right direction. 

I love being out. I love being busy. If I had it my way, I'd be in class, having drinks with friends or at a show every night of the week. 

I had solid plans to be in a yoga class, literally right now. But as I sit, listen to some mellow beats and sip on a cup of tea, I realize I'm not going anywhere this evening. Looking ahead to the unpredictability of the next three days, the best thing is to be alone. 

A ping came up - am I being lazy? Shouldn't I be working every, single, damn day to make these dreams of mine true. I have always preached that I would sleep when I'm dead. 

I have to remind myself that I don't work a 9 to 5 with set weekends and time off. As an entrepreneur and contractor, I work every day in some capacity. I know my body, mind, patience (just saying!) and such will be tested and maxed this weekend. 

If my sanctuary for the evening is a warm bath, candles and the scent of my last peonies of the season...so be it. There are many more weeks of summer to come. 

My phone is officially on "Do Not Disturb" mode. See you tomorrow friends. 

Just a thought. 

power.

Well hello there, it's been awhile.

Over the past month, I was lucky enough to perform in a monthly review with The Lovers Cabaret, attend one of my best friend's weddings in Mexico, teach a workshop in the Okanagan, and next weekend, see my younger brother graduate from university.

Since the beginning of May, I've felt a shift. I pushed it away initially, thinking that life has its ups and downs...but now that I'm back from a week away (and off my electronics for 90% of it) I feel this shift stronger than ever.

A few things have happened that keep leading me to the word power. 

"Most powerful is he who has himself in his own power." 

- Lucius Annaeus Seneca

Looking back, I left Toronto almost two years ago, graduated from university three years ago, and Kelowna nearly seven ago...where has time gone? I'm such a different (and better!) person now that I've brought dance back into my life, started owning exactly who I am and just doing what feels right.

Perhaps it's because I'm getting older, but I feel much more conscious about who I surround myself with on a day to day basis. There's a saying that you take on and are influenced by the five people you are around the most.

Choose wisely.

It made me start to think, I am that person to anyone else? If so, what is the influence and the message I want to give?

I've started to think about it, and realized I don't to define it. I'm who I am. That's all. We choose who we want to hang out and not be with.

Know your power. Be your power. Own your power.

That's all.

paradise.

"I wish for the same thing I've hoped for since the beginning. 

I wish for a life so brave, so unpredicatable, so full of unexpected joys and unforgettable love that no box could possibily contain all my memories." 

- Chelsey Philop, Even in Paradise

 

music

Going through your music library is in a time machine in itself. 

I build my playlists for my classes several days in advance, and am constantly changing them up to challenge myself in class and make things more interesting for me students. 

Isn't it funny how certain songs take you back to such particular moments in your life? 

For example, Radiohead's , "Reckoner" reminds me of my first or second year of university sitting in the school auditorium watching the senior Bachelor of Fine Arts, dance students perform a beautiful contemporary piece to a score of the band. 

I was upset and unhappy. I wouldn't admit it at the time, but I wanted to be one of those performers on stage.

It was a moment of conflict...I was so happy in my place as a journalism major, but I knew how much I missed dancing. 

Notoriously,  anything by Hootie and the Blowfish reminds me of a weekend away at a friend's cabin right after I finished working on the London 2012 Olympics.

It was a time of celebration and also the signal to the end of summer and like all contractors know, a job, sense of stability and rhythm. 

Funny enough, when I went to find my third song (I went to my full library of 2,600 plus songs and pressed shuffle) the most recent piece of music I downloaded popped up. 

Lenny Kravitz, "Ain't No Sunshine". Hmmm. 

Where am I right now? 

Happy. That's all. 

I'm working on several projects. Teaching consistently, dancing 4-5 times a week, have a steady income from my social media business, have friends and am soaking in this moment. After a scary brush with tragedy last weekend, I had a reality check. 

Life is short. Life is good. Life should be fun. 

If it isn't, time to change. 

Just a thought. 

Up next: Britney Spear's Greatest Hits album a la, 2004. Gold. 

bed.

Let's lie in bed all day.