When Everything Old Is New Again . . .

. . . I feel great! Seriously, what better joy than walking into a consignment shop and picking up a fab piece for 1/3 the price of new? Today my hubby and I just happened to be in Leaside, our old haunts, and I asked him to drop me off at Ex-Toggery on Brentcliffe Road while he went post-Christmas shopping at Canadian Tire. As soon as I walked in, I spied THE jacket for our New Year's Eve dinner--a Katherine Kelly gold and purple brocade with covered buttons. The price was a steal--$59.99, regular $225! Now, ask yourself this--wouldn't you rather get a bargain on something that you might wear only a few times a year? You can then feel virtuous about spending WAY too much for the amazing treats at McEwan, which we did afterwards. I'm also betting I'll be the only one wearing this jacket at our New Year's dinner--with my gold Nine West pumps, to boot!

Check out Ex-Toggery for their great bargains at www.extoggery.com
You can also see more Katherine Kelly fashions at www.shopstyle.com

Happy treasure hunting!

Stay Afloat--Drink Your Water!

Just finished watching "Pirates of the Caribbean 3" with hubby Allan and realized that, within the space of three hours, I had consumed one glass of wine, one club soda and one coffee--but no plain water! I have never been a water drinker and have to remind myself time and again how important it is to keep myself hydrated. Since losing 30 pounds this year and exercising a minimum of five days a week, I have learned to drink water before, during and after exercising, but it's making sure that I get enough water during the rest of my day that is still a challenge for me.

If you, like me, are post-menopausal, you should be really strict with yourself. Or, if you suffer from arthritis, like I do, you really need that water to keep your joints well lubricated. Here is an excellent link that reminds all of us of the benefits of water, both inside and outside our bodies:
www.freedrinkingwater.com

I have learned to have a glass of water with every alcoholic drink--this trick has helped me to keep my one-drink-per-social-event promise!

Baubles, Bangles and Bargains!

Just returned from a fab afternoon of bargain shopping. I decided to concentrate on classic accents rather than pieces I will likely discard after a few months, and my decision was rewarded. At Sears at Sherway Gardens, I picked up some great costume jewellery in lines like Liz&Co, Nygard and Napier for $77.00, saving myself over $100! I find Sears really hit and miss for clothing but great for accessories like jewellery and scarves. If you live near Sherway, definitely make a stop at Sears this week!

Happy Holidays--and a first for me this Christmas!

I'm looking out my window as I blog and marvelling at the quietness of Dundas Street--usually so busy at any time of day in Toronto. It's a good time to reflect on the holiday season and the year in general. Today I'm planning some much-needed pampering pre-New Year's--manicure, hair salon for colour, shopping for a perfect bracelet to match the beautiful necklace and earrings my husband gave me for Christmas. I'm also patting myself on the back--this was the first Christmas in all my 50 Christmases that I worked out! I'm enjoying holiday food and drink, but I'm remembering to take care of myself and keep some perspective on the whole season. There's no reason you can't enjoy an extra treat or two anytime, as long as you treat your whole self well!

And now, the onion and cheddar tart beckons . . .