ModernGearTV

Something new and Delish!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 15:20:00 +0000

I know I haven't been seen 'round these parts lately...won't you come and visit me over in my new corner of the blogosphere/internets/world wide web?

Vancouver

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:14:00 +0000

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

Nothing is impossible, but impossible is nothing.

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 20:18:00 +0000

There are certain things in life you think you'll never experience. "It couldn't happen to me." "That could never happen." "I'll never be that unlucky." and also..."I'll never be that lucky."

I have found myself in many situations in my work as a journalist where I fall into that sort of thinking.

I once did a story on a new addition of a room in University Hospital in Edmonton for grieving parents to spend time with their stillborn baby. It was a soothing room, meant to be very quiet and still, comfortable and private. I did this story as a television reporter, and it struck me as very very sad, but I am not going to lie to you - the thought, at that time, of parents holding and photographing their dead baby, seemed almost macabre. Little did I know how, first of all, the parents absolutely need this to start their grieving and ultimately healing process. And little did I know, secondly, that I'd be in that situation one day, feeling like I couldn't breathe, I couldn't walk, and I...Just. Could. Not. Believe. This. Was. Happening.

I did a story on premature babies, also at the University of Alberta Hospital - these teeny, tiny human beings who just against all odds make it into the world and many thrive. In my story I covered the healthy ones who came home and went on to live full lives, but I also highlighted the problems that many underdeveloped early babies have from breathing problems to a lack of neurological development and more. I am a feeling human being with a sensitive side and I was teary-eyed during shooting and editing, but with a healthy attitude I moved on, thinking this could never happen to me. And when it did, I spent the first few days not in utter joy or complete terror, but operating in a sort of void of emotion. It was there, and I was there, but again, I...Just. Could. Not. Believe. This. Was. Happening.

And last night I was in an ambulance with Finn, transferring him to a hospital closer to our home. I had done a television story once on ambulance crews, and that was the only time I had ever been in an ambulance, until last night. That's not a place you want to be. But Finn is stable and more - he is doing so very well that we are thanking our lucky stars. I almost couldn't believe it was happening, last night.

But, I think I've learned my lesson.

It also makes me realize that just as I should never, ever again push aside thoughts of potential bad things with the summary dismissal of ,"Oh that would never happen to me", I also ought not to put limits on what good and wonderful things can happen in life.

I used to, and had I held on to that thought rather than being open to joy as much as sorrow, having been through these experiences, I might have missed out on what a miracle we are living right now. On how my world and every single thing in it has changed. How there's a whole lot that just doesn't matter anymore, and a whole lot that matters the most.

No more limiting self-talk.

Nothing is impossible, but impossible is nothing.

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

Welcoming our little man

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 21:52:00 +0000

A quick quick post as I know there are at least a handful of you still visiting this space and awaiting news!

I gave birth to our three-pound, one-ounce sweetheart between 11 and 12 weeks early, last Wednesday (Oct 21). He is currently doing very well in NICU, and will stay there for between 7-10 more weeks.

He is beautiful, he is a fighter (and he even looks like one!) - and we are more in love with him than we knew was possible.

I am so thankful, even though he's there and it tests my strength, intestinal fortitude, will, resolve and every molecule of my being to not bring him home with me! It's simply too soon. He's under the 24/7 watchful eye of an incredible complement of nurses, doctors and support staff, and he is coming along as they expect him to.

It's opened our eyes to a whole new world - yes, one with a baby but also one with terms like CPAP (the breathing assistance he is on, that is one people with apnea use) - he is not intubated, he is not on a ventilator so this is very good. And words like bilirubin, jaundice and gavage - things we are dealing with.

Justine, his nurse last night said he is an eater and a grower.

He's being tube fed but it's breast milk (yay me!) and it is regularly upped, so soon they will be able to remove the tube. He also had a little taste of breast milk last night when Justine put a few drops in his mouth to soothe him.

He lost some weight after birth (normal) and isn't up to his birth weight yet but we hope soon. I am pumping like a madwoman (quite a visual) so he's got a LOT of milk in the freezer when he needs it, with 16 or so small 2 oz. bottles added every day. I am one motivated mama!

So, I won't keep you waiting any longer -- I'd like to introduce you to our little man, Finn Jacob. We love him so much.

Fall Friday musings

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:41:00 +0000

I'm in a certain mood, and feeling a certain word these days that if it slips away, I ~~try~~ (because as Yoda says: Either do or do not, there is no try) I work really hard at bringing back into my consciousness and approach to everything.

Organic. Less in the no-fertilizers or pesticides way but in the natural, harmonious, flowing, isn’t it easy way.

I am admiring people to whom good things seem to come naturally and easily...because I know things don't come naturally and easily at all, rather because they are able to accept such gifts with grace...versus my reaction which is often times shock, disbelief and the suspicion that something bad has to be around the corner to counterbalance the good.

I am working at acceptance, and trust, and always, always...always hope.

And, I am in the mood for fall.

For cozying together, for the smell of leaves and fires at night...for reading and cups of tea and warm, soft sweaters and dark denim and leather boots. For baking and making stew, sewing a quilt (hello, Posie Gets Cozy's Ollalieberry Ice Cream Quilt) with matching pillow cases to make a true nest to sink down into on a cool fall night

(I'm getting started), and knitting a blanket.

Here are some images that inspire me this season, and that to me speak of organic. (Click to make image bigger.)
1. Alex Marshall serving bowl, on sale from $108 to $69.99, at Remodelista.
2. Fog Linen Work Apron, £35 at selvedge dry goods.
3. Vintage German grain sack from Stephanie Lloyd.
4. A Madsen kg271/bucket bike, $1299. What would I put in the bucket? Pooch. Pumpkins. Picnic. Anything!
5. My Fiorentini & Baker boots - blogged about before, and coming to me this weekend!
6. J.R. Watkins Black Cleaning Bucket, $10.99

And, I am so happy that The Swell Season's new disc comes out in October. I heard one song on CBC Radio's Q and I cried (thanks, Jian Ghomeshi!). If you're in love, or you wish you were, I defy you to listen to this song without at last one tear rolling down your cheek. "...maybe I was born to hold you in these arms..."

Next week - Fall Fashion musings. Til then, have a glorious fall weekend.

ModernGear Home: James Perse Furniture

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:44:00 +0000

Oh, great. I have a major love affair with James Perse clothing...and now there is a James Perse Furniture collection? That's it...it's too much...I just can't take it!!

Well okay, okay, I can. Here are my favourite pieces - for wardrobe and for home. I am all UP into James Perse. (Did I really just say that?)

Perse for summer (for me) would have been all about his maxi dresses (and how I hope this is a trend that will continue next summer), like the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Olympic Sulphur RACERBACK LONG DRESS, $155

And even the shorter styles, too, like the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Charcoal CAP SLEEVE A-LINE DRESS, $155

For fall, I really like the working of his super-soft cotton and fleece into a few different items. LOVE the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Black FLEECE HOODED A-LINE DRESS, $195

And wouldn't this look amazing with skinny jeans and black leather boots, with a soft black scarf? JAMES PERSE WOMEN Charcoal BIAS CUT DRAPED V-NECK Blouses, $135

It's really pouring outside and fall is HERE, and I'd love to be sitting in my chilly office wrapped in the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Black OPEN DRAPE CARDIGAN Blouses, $155 or...

...the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Night Owl HOODED FLEECE JACKET Sweaters, $225

Even the JAMES PERSE WOMEN Olympic FLEECE SWEATSHIRT doesn't look like a slovenly sweathshirt of my university years. ($110)

Love these two bottoms for lounging or yoga/pilates: JAMES PERSE WOMEN Black CROPPED PANT, $125

JAMES PERSE WOMEN Olympic Sulphur EASY LOUNGE PANT, $135

And what collection of favourites would be complete without cashmere?! JAMES PERSE WOMEN Heather Grey CASHMERE BLEND CARDIGAN Sweaters, $225

I also really like James Perse for men - here are just a few of my faves: JAMES PERSE MEN Black LIGHTWEIGHT FLEECE SWEATSHIRT, $135

JAMES PERSE MEN Greystone Pigment LIGHTWEIGHT FLEECE HOODIE, $195

JAMES PERSE MEN Black ACTIVE HALF ZIP, $150

JAMES PERSE MEN Olympic Sulphur LOUNGE LONG SLEEVE CREW, $50

So when I tried to imagine what James Perse furniture would look like, I wondered, how would it translate from his wearable collections? I have found a few pieces that I think look just as comfortable and easy to incorporate as his clothing.

It may be raining, but the forecast is for sun tomorrow. I'd love to curl up in a ray of sunshine on either the new Carbon Chaise from the Malibu outdoor Collection, or the Colony Chair.

For inside the home, The Nor Cal Collection's Sonoma Chair and Sofa feature fabric that is a cotton and linen blend. They wouldn't last a day around my dog, but my goodness - how comfortable and chic would that one day feel?!
There's even more - a desk, tables, and the Los Angeles collection that can be used outdoors (with Yellow Balau wood) or indoors (featuring Rough Sawn White Oak). Suffice it to say, it's all pretty fabulous. See for yourself at JamesPerse.com.

Revisiting a yummy soup!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:08:00 +0000

September = Soup Month, there are (is?) just no two ways about it.

So I decided to make an old recipe of mine, the Butternut Squash and Roasted Red Pepper Soup of some time ago. I added something new though! A few leaves of sage blended in with the pepper - YAA-HUM!

And Cheese Toast. Everything is better with cheese toast.

Won't you try it out?

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

The summer of change

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:58:00 +0000

This is the official Summer of Change. I ought not to make such a grandiose pronouncement, as it seems every summer is full of stuff happening -- of growth, of dreams and developments. But this one might trump it all.

21 weeks. My belly is growing and my heart is full of hope.

And so it is that I find myself drawn towards inspiration, wherever I can get it.

There are the tweets and blogs of Danielle from White Hot Truth, with this recent one just a fantastic example of what I get out of following this great woman.

Follow her. You will be glad.

I have also been collecting images from each and every corner of the internet - at least the internet that I know. I often don't remember where these came from but I will give credit where I can, and beg for forgiveness where I can't. Here are the things that are inspiring me these days, and why. I hope you can get something from them too!

Words of healing from Sheye Rosemeyer

Quilts, quilts, quilts. I can't get enough quilts. I am ready to sew, looking for a machine and can't wait to
see my work on our beds.
Some might call this "nesting". I call it wonderful. Who wouldn't want to create
a lovely, handmade life and home? I feel I must get the following book:
The Gentle Art of Domesticity: Stitching, Baking, Nature, Art & the Comforts of Home
Sewing patterns on eBay.

Unfortunately these beautiful ones are in Japanese!

Tofino, BC. We need to get there, and soon.

Bringing the outside in, with tables that still resemble trees. Pic, I think, from Remodelista (Terence Conran suite).

The continued search for doors like this, for our washroom and my office - maybe even our bedrooms too.

The continued search for a set of antique blueprint drawers, but settling for the time being on an Alex set of drawers from IKEA.

Dreaming about living in a home with coved ceilings like this one I found online, and the one below we saw in Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy at the Messner Mountain Museum.
I don't know where this is from! It's the blog of a family who moved from North America to Europe. I am sure I have the link in my database, and this image is why I would go back for a read.

Cindy Crawford's mid-40s legs. There's hope for me yet.

My Fiorentini and Baker beauties. When will you be mine?

examples of grace and beauty, whether styled or not...Marion Cotillard

Diane Kruger

and Fantastic blogger Gillian Young, who is off on another French adventure (I am just slightly envious!)

Vanity Fair's 2009 International Best-Dressed List

I have a hard drive that is full to overflowing, with all of the images I save...but looking at them and getting inspired to live a good life, and to keep dreaming and doing, makes it worth the computer crashes!

Monday morning

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:50:00 +0000

A great day! I have a guest post over at decor8, one of my favorite design/dwelling/house and home blogs.

AND despite the fact that Friday, Saturday and Sunday were packed over here at our household with friends, family, cooking and more unpacking, I think that my blog friend Corey had an even better weekend than I did. Hint: she sort of hung out at the brocantes with Brangelina!

ModernGear Shoes: Giving my money the boot

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 22:18:00 +0000

This is going to be the fall and winter of THE boot. I have decided. I thought last year would be the year I'd find the boots I have been dreaming of, but it just didn't happen so I was relegated to wearing my probably 8, maybe 10-year-old square toe mid-calf zip-up boots. They're in fine shape but their silhouette isn't exactly timeless, and isn't exactly of-the-moment, either, when boots are decidedly more biker-babe.

I also have a great pair of Fly London wedge-heeled black leather boots but as you probably know I am a 37-year-old woman with the ankles of an 80-year-old woman, because of my Rheumatoid Arthritis. High heels are out, and I can't even walk in wedges anymore.

So my search for the perfect boot factors in more than heel height, shaft height, quality of leather, etc. It becomes about whether or not I can do up a zipper on a cold, rainy afternoon when my hands are stiff. It becomes about whether the pull-on boot's ankle part is so tight that I can't point my toes with my partially fused ankle to negotiate that tight turn. It's a complex procedure, and it's going to be a long hunt.

The quest started out innocently enough with an online visit to GravityPope.com. Now, I loves me some Gravity Pope - have since they first opened up in Edmonton, and am not sure how many pairs of shoes I have bought from them (in retrospect, probably not that many but how many I have tried on and coveted - now that numbers in the triple-digit territory).

I even wrote about the clothing side of Gravity Pope in Vancouver for the Globe and Mail's Style Section, when the soft goods store opened up - read about it at TamaraMedia.com, excerpted below:

Zen and the art of shopping

Though it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon, sometimes shopping can be less than soothing.

Jostling for space with other bargain hunters among racks overflowing with the latest must-haves and shouting to the salesperson over blaring music are not exactly conducive to a chilled-out experience.

Once in a while, though, you walk out with bags in hand and a Zen-like smile on your face, having lost all track of time in a boutique that has got it right. Like the new Gravity Pope Tailored Goods clothing store.

The 1,800-square-foot space is the sister shop to the popular Gravity Pope shoe store next door and joins Gravity Pope clothing and shoe stores in Edmonton and Calgary.

Walk in and the first striking features aren’t the Tocca dresses or Paul Smith cardigans.

White Carrera marble floors glisten and gleam. Light from the mirrored, spinning chandelier bounces off the walls. Two reupholstered Louis XIV chairs sit against the back wall underneath iridescent aluminum light fixtures, grouped as an installation piece, while a dapper antique mannequin from Paris stands watch.

I clicked on gravitypope.com, and immediately headed over to the casual boots section. I decided to document the process by taking screen shots of the boots I liked, and then call and see which ones they had before I went in to the store. Here is how it went, and my feedback from trying on.

These ones they didn't have in stock:
These ones they did.
Oh Steve. I couldn't even get my foot into this one! Are you making these for insect-thin supermodels only?

These might have been good - they sure look good, but the leather of the shaft is quite soft and they flop over. Now, due to my lack of flexibility in hips and back, to say nothing of the fact that my five-month-pregnant belly gets in the way, and I can't casually slip on a boot when sitting down or crouching. Rather, I have to step into said boot, and then sit down and wrestle them on. The Sendra boots would just flop over, making it impossible to step into them. So, they're out.
I was familiar with this Fiorentini and Baker boot from my friend Lainey's site, but they fit about a half-size too big. Darn it - the buckles opened up and the boot shaft split to make for easy donning, but the size 36 was just too big and they don't have them in 35.
Then I slipped on these beauties. And despite an initial slight struggle to get them on (during which the great saleslady gave me a secret tip that actually worked...), well...I was stepping into something comfortable and chic and suddenly, all was right in the world. I was not a young fashionable woman in the body of an old geriatric, I had the potential to dress like I wanted to. I could be a French gamine with knee socks and ruffled dress, I could be a biker babe with tucked in skinny jeans and an equally hot leather jacket, I could be a pregnant mama in maternity tights and a plaid tunic. I envisioned all the outfits I wanted to put together with style, with sass,
with personality and yes...with $710 boots.

Ahem.

Cough, cough.

(Sound of crickets.)

Slight glitch.

Luckily, Gravity Pope has layaway. A 20% deposit later and they're now on the shelf in the back room with my name written on the box.

Sure, I'll continue looking as I start saving, but I think I'm done for. I figure I will finish making payments on them by the time the snow melts next spring...Anyone need an article written or an essay edited for cheap?!

ModernGear Pooches: Rein in your dog with a (fashionable) rope

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 18:01:00 +0000

When The Sartorialist gives his seal of approval in his nod to the most stylish and chic, you know something is a style must-have. As it turns out, quite often something appears in one of his amazing photographs of amazing people, that is also functional as well as fashionable.

I was delighted to see this was the case in today's post from New York. I first off appreciated not the cute dress, fabulous hair or beautiful sandals on the woman, but rather the rope leash that she was using to lead her gorgeous dog. Commenters are saying the same thing.

Image from TheSartorialist

The leash reminded me of some I had seen in a magazine, though I had no recollection of the name...so I did a little digging around and lo and behold - if you want such a rope leash to complete your look and to be a very strong and effective lead for your pooch, look no further than... Found My Animal.

Image from Found My Animal

The leashes will appeal to animal-loving folks and vegans alike because the rope is a great alternative to leather, and they're extremely strong and durable. The hardware (solid brass o-rings and clips) enable you to wear or use the leash in a variety of ways:

Image from Found My Animal

And what's perhaps the most beautiful thing of all about these leashes, is that 25% of all profits go to the Louis Animal Foundation, a "unique non-profit group dedicated to spaying/neutering and providing homes for animals who have not yet 'found' their people."

Prices run from $52-$60 for the natural rope leash, which also comes in black. Found My Animal also has collars, and will be introducing harnesses soon as well.

Images from Found My Animal

I am a dog person, through-and-through and I love the idea that this leash is strong and durable, keeping my guy safe. But the fashion lover in me unabashedly supports something that is so good-looking AND, has The Sartorialist's tail wagging as well.

What's new...

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:47:00 +0000

I've got plans, people, big plans.

Did you ever feel like you were close to being where you were supposed to be, but just slightly off? Or, a version of this thought process in a twitter:
shanenickersonRT @csussin: Sometimes in conversation I am improvising as a character close to my age, weight and height rather than speaking my own mind.

I get that. That's kind of, sort of, a little bit, what I feel about my blogging.

Because I know where I want to be, and I know where I have been, and the two aren't exactly the same...not quite identical.

It all started with Danielle LaPorte of White Hot Truth.

I had a phone Fire Starter session with Danielle that I had been looking forward to for weeks and weeks - I was supposed to take part in a group session in Los Angeles but had to go to Vancouver that weekend, so Danielle said we could make it up on the phone.

Now, about Danielle. Keywords that come to mind are: soothing, groovy, connected, whipsmart. I needed her perspective, her opinion, her way of cutting through the excess to get to the core. And it worked...

So basically I can't say much more because the path isn't entirely laid out yet, but I can say that ModernGearTV.com and TamaraMedia.com will be amalgamating at some point soon. I can say that I'll still be doing product reviews - trying things out and telling you all about them - but I'll also be telling the stories of people, places and things that I find interesting.

Because what's maybe been missing in all of this is the fact that for the past 15 years I have been, in one way or another, a storyteller. I've told stories on television, on the radio, in newspapers and magazines, and on the internet (sometimes live on a stage too). I have enjoyed every minute of that. And if I truly want to make a go of my own little space on these here interwebs, of entertaining and informing the people who spend their time in this space, then I want it to be 100% true to my vision and my personality.

So please stay tuned! I'll of course let you know where I'm going website address-wise, and I'll continue to post until it's all settled in and looking pretty. (And as you know, these things take time...) I would LOVE to have you come along, I don't want to lose even one of you.

Hope you are all well and happy. I know I sure am.

On The Road Again

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:38:00 +0000

My friends, the best laid plans...I have been wanting to, and meaning to, get to a blog post for some time but we've been busy busy bees. (I even have a recipe in the pipeline from Kiki but I think it's be on the sked for next Monday!)

We're enjoying a mini-break in San Francisco - got in late on Saturday night, and have been having a blast ever since.

We are staying at The Laurel Inn, a GREAT dog-friendly hotel. Duane the pooch is loving the treats they left for him, like this wonderful bone!

We like to visit our old haunts and reminisce, and dream about a day when we might be lucky enough to live here.

Even Duane the pooch loves it.

How could he NOT love this?! A dish of food as we wait for his "Daddy", with the Golden Gate bridge in the background.

A few pictures from our trip so far...and YES they're mostly of food but that's the thing about SF! Ohhh, that is the thing!

We made sure to visit the Cole Valley Boulangerie,

Later in the day (after a well-deserved nap), we ventured out to Chestnut Street, for take-out from Dragon Well and so I could get myself a new bra. I went into Gap Body, having told my husband that all I needed was ten minutes. A gross underestimation! I ended up frustrated and with a new bra, but not ecstatic with my purchase! Aren't bra sizes supposed to be standard?? Anyway. A quick trip to Miette for some macarons to bring to our friends later, lifted me out of my bra-blues funk.

They were well-received, and delicious!

D contemplates the view - a foggy beautiful city.

It was a great day, and I am looking forward to more today and tomorrow. Wednesday, excited to be on to Portland and the Ace Hotel!

ModernGear Shoes: Two little pieces of heaven

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 20:40:00 +0000

Monday's recipe is another guest post by KIKI! But, it's not coming in until tomorrow...so stay tuned and hold tight and be patient and all that. Tuesday's recipe will be worth the wait, I promise.

For now, I have a little story for you about the first time I have ever held heaven in my hands.

It was this weekend, in Las Vegas. I had never been there before and hadn't even known what to expect besides varying degrees of debauchery and fabulousness...I mean, isn't that what the movies and the "What Happens In Vegas" campaign tell us?

And it's actually kind of true!

Well, I had a grand old time. There was a suite at the Palazzo, some slots, a little time at the spa, and...these.
"Oh my God!", you're thinking. "She finally went and did it, she bought herself a pair of Louboutins!"

And you'd be...wrong. She (I) didn't buy myself a pair of Louboutins. But, my friends, I held them in my hands. And that is practically as good...because let's be serious - I don't have an upcoming movie premiere that I know of, I wear yoga pants around the house most of the day and even dressing up to go out for dinner usually means a nice dress and ballet flats, and have no (or few) wardrobe options that would be on par with these shoes.

Oh, that and I have a mortgage to pay, and even though these were on sale for $550, that's still a lot too much for this girl.

BUT! For one heavenly moment I was allowed to travel in my dreams to a fabulous life where I did have premieres and events, fabulous clothes to match these works of art, and...stronger ankles.

And, as people seem to like to say these days, "At the end of the day"...here's the thing. You can go to all sorts of blogs where they tell you that you are nothing, you are nobody, if you don't own these shoes. And I am here to tell you, that's not true...but...if you ever get a chance to coddle a pair, to ooh and aaah and dream, definitely DO NOT TURN IT DOWN!

ModernGear Home: It's Getting Hot in Here!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:00:00 +0000

Last night as a mosquito or some such bug absolutely tortured me and my husband. I thought, isn't there some sort of contraption I can use that will shoo the offending buzzer away and let me sleep in peace? I had gone way beyond offering the sacrificial arm and leg for the little guy to nibble on, and was so hot that I was sleeping in the nude anyway. Didn't seem to appease him for long as he almost constantly buzzed my ears (or so it seemed).

Around 3am when we had turned on and off our (very handy) Candela lamp to try to attract the bug (all it did was let him know we were about to open a can of whoop-ass on him and I'd catch a glimpse of him flying away...), I decided to just put a pillow over my head to protect my ears from the buzzing, and let him do his worst. And he did. I counted 15 welts this morning, on my legs, my arms, my tummy, and even my butt.

This morning the first thing my husband said is, "I hope he's drunk on our blood, somewhere under a tree, his pants too tight to do up." Ha! That'd teach him.

I don't know if a gently blowing fan would have helped shoo the bugger away, but it might have kept me cool and then I would have been able to cover up, and then maybe I'd be bite-free today.

All that to say, we have to get one of these uber-cool fans, and soon. Enjoy.

Etsy has a great selection of good-looking vintage fans, like these:

DailyMemorandum has this Vintage 1950s Vornado Fan for $30
JuJuToo has a vintage fan for $29.
jwhite2's Vintage Metal Oscillating Fan is $57.
highstreetmarket's refurbished vintage electric fan in aqua blue is $58.

DecoDeli has a pair of Eskimo Electric fans for $76.
Here's an Eskimo fan that's a bit more beat up, from threesistersvintage, for $15.
You actually don't have to go vintage to be stylish, though. Our current, new-ish fan is one that we wouldn't necessarily want to keep out when it's not absolutely needed, because it's kind of ugly. If we had this one, I'd probably not want to put it away out of sight.

The OTTO has a long list of features, the first of which is its diminuitive size - it's under 15 inches high and weighs 9.5lbs, but features an adjustable industrial fan! It also saves money in comparison to air condition cooling because it's an energy efficient 45 watts.

It might cost a bit more than your standard plastic fan from Canadian Tire or Target, but it's such a good-looking piece of art, really, that I think the investment of $199.99 in keeping cool (and looking cool) is well worth it. The wood is African sapele and has been oiled twice to add a sheen to the gorgeous wood grain. This is a fan that would look very at home in a home with Mid-Century Modern decor.
You can get an OTTO fan from these retailers, or at Swizz Style.

Now, if someone invents a whisper-quiet bug zapper, then I'll rest easy.

ModernGear Food: Roasted Veggies from Kiki!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:53:00 +0000

It has been a while since we've had a creation from Kiki's Kitchen! She has been in Montreal spending time with family, and when she's there she always entertains and cooks for them...so this is from Kiki in Montreal.

Roasted Veggies from Kiki

Marinade

in a jar put:

juice of 2 limes

2 tablespoons chopped freshed ginger

4 garlic cloves chopped

various herbs from the garden - I used chives, basil, cilantro, thyme

fleur de sel & freshly ground black pepper 3/4 cup olive oil

close lid on jar and shake to mix

Veggies

Vidalia onion, 1/4 inch slices

4 zucchinis - sliced length-wise

4 red peppers, quartered

portobellos & crimini mushrooms - stemmed and washed

place in a baking dish and cover with marinade for about an hour

1 yam - sliced 1/4 inch thick

2 roma tomatoes, sliced in half

Directions

1. Heat the bbq and depending on how big your grill is grill the veggies in stages - I did the mushrooms first, then the zucchinis, onions and peppers - the baskets for grilling and "stir-frying" are awesome and make this all so easy - no more losing veggies down the grill!! http://www.nextag.com/basket-grill-vegetable/compare-html

2. The yams I tossed in olive oil, salt & pepper and put them directly on the grill - DELICIOUS!
3. I put the tomatoes cut side down in the marinade for about 5 minutes before putting them on the top part of the grill for the last 5 minutes or so of cooking - just to get them a bit soft.
4. Put the veggies on a bed of arugula or wild greens and use the remaining marinade as a "dressing" - no photos of the end product - sorry!!! (baby, mum, dog, etc - all very distracting)

I can see why she was distracted - sweet Lola! K. was there celebrating Lola's first birthday..I hope that she'll share a post about Lola's birthday cupcake caterpillar!

Bon appetit!

Can you read me? Can you read me now?

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 17:26:00 +0000

There have been a few reports of glitches in the ModernGearTV matrix - that is, sometimes people come to the site but instead of my musings on all manner of things from mascara to banana chocolate chip muffin recipes to Brad Pitt's shoes, they get an error message.

So, I am wondering if this has happened to you or if it has come through loud and clear each and every time.

Be a doll, would you, and answer my poll or leave me a comment?

MUCH OBLIGED!!

poll by twiigs.com

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

SALE SALE SALE!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 20:05:00 +0000

Happy July 4th, everyone! Hope you're enjoying the summer festivities - now do you want to do some saving? If so, click on through to my newly updated coupon code and sale page, where I've gathered a whole BUNCH of savings opportunities for all members of the family and more. It will be updated as I find more sales throughout the day, too...

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.

ModernGear Shoes: It's Simple!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:56:00 +0000

I don't gush about shoes very often...

Oh come on, who am I kidding?! Maybe I find this a worthy topic just once in a while (Balenciaga), every now and then (Brad Pitt's shoes), once in a blue moon (Christian Louboutins), but the fact is, if it's a gushy post about the aforementioned designer shoes you can be assured that I a) don't own them and b) don't advocate buying them if it's the shoes or your mortgage (or rent, or baby food, or or or...).

Whew.

The fact is, apart from admiring those pieces of artwork for your feet - I am a simple girl, with simple needs. What I need, I discovered this week, is really simple. No, I mean it - it's Simple (Simple.com).

Like
Simple Shoes - Toepaz-Hemp (CUB)

and

Simple Shoes - Toepaz-Hemp (BLACK)

Why are these slip-ons so great? Well, they're SO comfy. I got them earlier this week and have worn them during the day for a few days, and after work if I wore other shoes that day. They're also the most guilt-free shoes I have ever owned or worn, because of their impressive eco-friendliness.
To wit:
*sustainable hemp uppers
*certified organic cotton lining
*braid of jute
*natural latex "pedbed" with certified organic cotton canvas cover
*outsoles that used to be a car tire
*held together with water based cement
They're also guilt-free because of the incredible sale going on right now - they were $75 and are now -- get this - $19.90!
Click this link to get there:
Simple Summer Clearance Event. (Select Women's and Men’s styles 50% to 85% off!)

Here are some other cute casual shoes from Simple for your viewing (and shopping) pleasure!

Simple Shoes - Caramel - Silk (HORTENSIA),$60

Simple Shoes - Tictacktoe - Silk (BLACK), $85

Simple Shoes - Teetoe - Organic Cotton (BLACK), $65

I'd even wear these in cooler weather:

Simple Shoes - Toetally - Certified Organic Cotton (BLACK), Was $120, Sale $69.90

There are also Simple shoes for men and kids, here are some of my favourites (Kid's shoes come in Big Kids, Little Kids, and Infants):

Simple Shoes - Loaf Off Road - Hemp (BLACK), $90

Simple Shoes - Loaf Off Road - Hemp (CUB)

Simple Shoes - Innertube - Little Kid's (BLACK MULTI), $42

Simple Shoes - Weebit-Infant's (SLATE ROSE), $24

Simple Shoes - Weebit (NILE GREEN TREES)

Simple Shoes - Weebit (CANDY PINK TREES)

Simple Shoes - Weebit (BLACK MULTI)

I can say that these shoes run ever-so-slightly smaller so I'd order a half-size smaller for women...I am usually a 6 and the 5.5 Toepaz fit me like a hemp glove. And I am in love.

And that is all the poetry I shall attempt!

Happy 4th of July, everyone!

ModernGear Women: Jump(suits)!

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:50:00 +0000

(not sure why this post isn't truncating, but I'll leave it this way til I can figure it out!)

Jump, jump(suit) for my love
Jump(suit), I know my heart can make you happy
Jump(suit) in, you know these arms
Can feel you up
Jump(suit), you want to taste my kisses
In the night then
Jump, jump(suit) for my love!

I know, I know...yesterday's post about my about-face on the veeeery important subject of rompers had your head spinning. But don't worry - I am not about to BLOW your mind now, because I am solidly on the fence about jumpsuits. I WANT to love them I do. But there are SO FEW examples of them done well, that I am having a heck of a time. Shall we walk the Hall of Fame/Shame and look at a few?

Eva Longoria looks good - cool & comfy. I think she's at an airport here, or a mall. Does Eva Longoria DO the mall?

Shakira, Shakira, Shakira. Oh don't mind me, I am not using a condescending tone, I'm just have one of her songs on repeat in my head, where the guy sings her name three times. She too looks cool & comfy here.

Scarlet Johansson -- I want to like it, I do...which I do, but only because you're wearing it and I truly dig you. But I can't LOVE this quasi-flightsuit, though I must admit YOU are WEARING IT, and not letting it wear YOU. So, points for that.

Alisha Keys. Oh honey, no. Nope. Uh-uh. NOT for hippy women, no matter how beautiful they are, I am sorry. Which is why I cannot wear a jumpsuit!

Selma Blair. I just don't know, I can't decide because I can't think because the way-too-long pants are distracting me. You might get hurt, honey. Don't fall victim to a fashion accident. I have talk about this before, here and here. Don't you read my blog? Well okay, I'm sure you don't. Just be careful.

Now, who would win in a jumpsuit-off between Selma Blair and Gwyneth Paltrow? Tough call. For me, it's Gwynnie by a hair (or a hem)...

Maggie Gyllenhaal, I just can't get behind this, even if it looks good from behind.
Same goes for you, Amber Tamblyn. It's kind of frumpy. And a hem, would it kill you to get a hem job?!

And the gorgeous Padma Lakshmi, who would win best dressed in the category of jumpsuit if only she had bothered to take this garment to a tailor and get it hemmed. Too bad - the winner is...

Malin Ackerman...I worry that you are skirting danger with the length of these pantlegs, but honey, you are rocking this jumpsuit. Two thumbs up!

Now...there aren't as many jumpsuits to choose from right now as there are rompers, because the extra fabric adds extra heat in the middle of summer, but jumpsuits are a solid night-on-the-town source, so I tracked down some beauties for you. (Seriously, not for 5'2", 3 months pregnant me...because those who can't...share links.)

From Tobi, the beautiful Black Halo Jackie Jumpsuit, $435. I know, the price is a little steep but do you love it, or do you love it? It's the neckline that was on the incredibly popular Black Halo Jackie dress but in a gorgeous jumpsuit. LOVE it.

From ssense.com, this one is so lovely.
Ksubi Black Strapless Jumpsuit, a more reasonable $272 and made in Australia. Oooh exotic!

Juicy Couture Black Smocked Terry Jumpsuit, $178. I just don't think I can support a velvety jumpsuit. But, someone might like it...for playing shuffleboard on the Lido Deck, Grandma.

From shopbop.com, the Helmut Lang Feather Jersey Jumper, $290.
I really want to rave about this one, I do...it might make me seem more worldly, more high fashion. But I shake my head. The sort of harem pant scares me. Lord knows, I don't need anything adding extra padding in the girth. However, on the right girl...in Paris, captured on film and posted at thesartorialist.com maybe, it could work.

T-Bags Wide Leg Jumpsuit, $198. I like this one because it reminds me of Padma Lakshmi's. It also comes in other colors.

T-Bags Print Wide Leg Jumpsuit, $207

Theory Demara Jumpsuit, $215

Sue Stemp Jumpsuit, $766.50 - this one is quite 'spensive, but it's so fabulously Studio 54 it is insane!

I really love this one - because, stick ruffles at the neck of anything and I'm in it as quickly as possible. Can't help myself!
Sunner Florent Jumpsuit, $262

And OH! If you like any of these from ShopBop, check out this sale:
2 DAYS ONLY! Take an EXTRA 25% OFF All SALE with code EXTRA25 at shopbop

You know, if I had even an extra six inches I would definitely wear a jumpsuit (AFTER HEMMING!!!). Alas, I am not going to grow, so these are not for me. But, maybe for you?

The Great e-Roundup July 2, 2009

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:21:00 +0000

A link round-up for you this morn...and a post on jumpsuits this afternoon! Please do come back...
links below...

Yesterday's post was about rompers, love it a lot also expressed her love for them.
Thursday = new GOOP. I love it, because it's about shopping green but the very first designer introduced is Stella McCartney, whose new Eco Collection ranges from $435 to $1535. Come ON, Gwyneth! Give me a break.
Tongue in Cheek and her daughter Chelsea dined or is it on Laduree macarons for dinner in Paris...so nice!
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Pioneer Woman's kids are hauling hay. I love those kids!
I think Prefab IS fab, especially if it's from Marmol Radziner (on Inhabitat).
Wow, kudos to Anna for starting her own eyeglass line! (seen on Garance Doré)

ModernGear Women: Re-thinking Rompers

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:04:00 +0000

I firmly established my opinion on rompers for women in last year's post on the subject...buuuut, I am a complex woman, and fully admit that my tastes are subject to whims and fancies I can neither predict, nor explain. All that to say, I now like rompers.

Can you blame me? Look how cute these are!

shopbop.com has quite a few, but it was one like this first one that swung me over to the romper side. Last time I was in Vancouver I saw a girl wearing a bright emerald green terry romper like this one. She was in amazing shape, was tanned and had glossy brown hair and bright blue eyes. That simple bright romper with sandals, just worked!

Splendid Vintage French Terry Jumper, $119

Karen Zambos Vintage Couture Kylie Romper, $253

T-Bags One Shoulder Romper, $176

7 For All Mankind Henley Romper, $189

Forever 21's Stretchy Printed Romper, $22.80

And THIS JUST IN! Sale at ShopBop, my kittens.
2 DAYS ONLY! Take an EXTRA 25% OFF All SALE with code EXTRA25 at shopbop

I like this one from Tobi. For some reason, the hood makes me think it would be perfect for hanging out post-swim, or on the water on a boat.

Juicy Couture Puff Cap Sleeve Hooded Short Romper, $148

CoutureCandy has the Joes Jeans Jasper Jumper in Black, $139

From http://www.revolveclothing.com, the C&C California Button Romper in Navy, $118

Juicy Couture Stripe Tie Dye Terry Shirred Elastic Romper in Palm Branch, $148

Here's the thing - there are a few suggestions. These are for girls and women who are in shape (I'm out!) and also - though many I have chosen here are photographed with models in heels, I'd only ever wear a romper with flats, personally. Even the more dressier, silkier fabrics. And also, go for colour with these! Black is definitely a nice look in them and if you had the body and the money, I'd suggest a black for evening but COLOUR for day! It's summer, sister! And, I'd carefully choose jewelry to complement a romper - hoop earrings, or a big, chunky necklace, especially with a strapless one, would be GORGE!

So, yes, I do love the romper - what a difference a year makes. If you think my about-face is bananas, wait til I show you my favourite jumpsuits next post!! I'm gonna freak your freak...

ModernGear Food: Baked Yam and Sweet Potato "Fries"

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:37:00 +0000

I am a BIG FAN of yams and sweet potatoes. Packed with nutrients and flavour, they're just a nice change from plain potatoes, and I love to eat anything with bright colours - makes me feel like I am doing something healthy.

Before we get to the recipe though, there's a question I must ask - what the heck is the difference between a yam and a sweet potato, anyway? Luckily the good folks at the Library of Congress wondered as well, and they solve the mystery for us, here.

I love yam fries and decided some time ago to try and make both yam and sweet potato fries to see if one was better than the other. And I can report - no! They're both delicious, and they go well together.

This recipe is based on one found at Yamfries.com, with a slight variation. Now, let's head into the kitchen!

BAKED YAM AND SWEET POTATO "FRIES"

INGREDIENTS
2 large unpeeled sweet potatoes
olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Scrub potatoes.

And I suggest you get a great potato potato scrubber to make the task really fun - had you fooled, didn't I?!

2. Cut each into thin strips (4 x 1/4 x 1/4 inch) and plunk into pan.

3. Drizzle generously with olive oil.

4. Sprinkle spices on top.

5. Bake at 425F for 25 minutes or until browned, turning potatoes after 15 minutes. I always find mine need more time, because I like them nice and crispy.

6. Soyve.
I had brought home crab cakes and salmon cakes from Whole Foods, so I also decided to make a dipping sauce for the fish as well as the fries. Is this maybe a healthier fish and chips? Suppose so. For the sauce, I just throw a bunch of things together and it comes out different every time. This one had:
mayo, plain yogurt, buttermilk ranch salad dressing, mustard, dried dill, curry, San Francisco Bay seasoning, poultry seasoning. And it was YUM!

Bon appetit!

The Great e-Roundup June 29, 2009

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:02:00 +0000

How can it be almost July already? Bananas! Well, at least I can take a quick moment to share just a few links, AND I'll have a recipe for yam fries later today. Mmmm good.

You don't see this often! A guardsman trips at Buckingham Palace...
Say it ain't so! Vogue's Andre Leon Talley is over heels? (Um, amen!!)
Remodelista visits Ode Lab in Merida, Mexico. Now that's my kind of casa.
Not Martha shares a tip on freezing bacon. I like this. I did something similar with leftover pancakes this weekend - super easy to pop into the toaster on a busy weekday morning.
It's a boy for Petite Anglaise! She's still pregnant though...it'll be some time before we see him.
Meanwhile, Dooce is finding her rhythm with the newest addition to the family.

Oh dear.

tamara@moderngeartv.com (ModernGear TV) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:33:00 +0000

Seems I came down with a wicked case of food poisoning yesterday...I am about 75% better, but would still like to go to bed now (5:30pm) and wake up tomorrow. Can't do that exactly but am focused on chilling out...

Posting again soon.

Here is the beginning of my post. And here is the rest of it.