Visit the Elves Rivendell Travel by Steve Thomas Redbubble Print

rivendell

I could so easily feel like I was there—in Middle Earth generally, but sometimes also Rivendell, when I lived in New Zealand. The photographic print that I received from Redbubble really brings back memories. I've been thinking back on that trip to New Zealand a lot lately, especially given the opening of the new movie The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. All things Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit are on my mind for sure. This print certainly makes me feel like going back to New Zealand! Go … [Read more...]

Nataliia Ku Doodle Pattern Print Review Redbubble

doodle print

 The Cute Doodle Pattern sparks creativity and the imagination. I know a few women who will be mothers soon or who have recently had babies. I, personally think this and other prints from Nataliia Ku would be perfect in a nursery or child's room.  … [Read more...]

London—Portrait of a City Taschen Book Review

installation

From the 2012 Summer Olympics to its historic roles as the world’s largest metropolis for almost all of the 19th century, and as the great heart of the British Empire—London is certainly one of the world’s great cities. From the crowded lanes of Covent Gardens, to the expansive splendor of Kew Gardens it’s also one of our personal favourites, which is why we were delighted to see this new entry in Taschen’s World Cities series: London—Portrait of a City … [Read more...]

New Balinese Wood Carvings at the Fragrant Wood Gallery Vancouver

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Last night I was in the always-interesting gallery district in South Granville, Vancouver. There was still a buzz about the street, even after places had shut down for the night. The Fragrant Wood Gallery was hosting an opening for their new collection of Balinese wood carvings. … [Read more...]

Happy Menocal Artist & Illustrator Feature

happy

I first came across Happy Menocal's illustrations in the latest issue of Matchbook Magazine (it's digital and free, check it out!), but was even more interested in her work when I checked out her website. I am drawn to her watercolour-y paintings and illustrations. And custom heraldry? Are you kidding me? How cool is that? I think that would be the perfect way to start a new life with someone.  … [Read more...]

Metropolitan Museum of Art Interior Manhattan New York

inside met

Last September, Greg and I spent a week in New York City, mostly checking out the museums and vegan restaurants. One of my favourite museums we visited was the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It's too bad that we ended up having to visit so many places in one day—we didn't get to spend enough time at the MET.  … [Read more...]

London 2012 Olympic Architecture

aquatic centre

Is it mainly the cities that get the Summer Olympics that have nice, purpose-built buildings to leave behind as legacies for the city? Although many buildings and other things came together due in part to the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, nothing really amazing like the aquatic centres in both Beijing and London was designed. I guess if the city ever got a Summer Olympics (which is much bigger is scale, and totally appropriate for a mild-weathered city like Vancouver), Zaha Hadid can make us a … [Read more...]

Oz: The Great and Powerful Teaser Trailer and Photos

oz movie

As a child I must have watched both the original 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz and the other movie Return to Oz from the mid 80s, dozens of times. I love the magical experience, and the way the characters go on an incredible journey to who knows where. I'm really excited about this new movie, which comes out in March 2013. Oz: The Great and Powerful stars James Franco as the Wizard who eventually goes to Oz, Michelle Williams and GLinda and Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz and other witches. Sounds … [Read more...]

London 2012 Olympic Rowing Team Canadian Stamp Launch

olympic

It's normal to see people rowing or out in the water in some way in Vancouver—because there is a lot of water and the weather is mild. Water sports really epitomize to me the idea of the Summer Olympics. That's not to say I am a die-hard fan of watching Olympic events, but I do love seeing people engaged in water activities (partly out of envy). Another thing I love is stamps—I buy special collections of stamps to use when I send things, not just the ordinary permanent ones. These new … [Read more...]

The Great Canadian Blog Bash

sun

From today until July 1st we'll be celebrating Canada on Being Tazim. Today is the first day of the Great Canadian Blog Bash. I have a Canadian-only giveaway of $53 worth of summer nature books from DK Canada. Enter to win the prize package here. For the first post of this series I wanted to share with you some pictures that are Canadian in subject matter: … [Read more...]