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I’ve added another new page to this website titled “MY ESSENTIALS.” It consists of the contents of my makeup bag, which is part one of my essentials. More to come gradually.

I created the page because I have been getting asked frequently about which makeup I wear. To be honest, the questions kind of caught me off guard, because I don’t actually wear a ton of makeup. However that being said, I can’t go a day without my eyelash curler and mascara (haha).  I’ve also added locations where the items can be purchased, as well as links to buy them online.

I’d also like to hear your recommendations of your personal favorites! I’m always down to try something new.

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Photo taken in the downstairs ladies room at Sneeky Dee's, Downtown Toronto.

I consider bathroom stall writing to be pretty amusing. Usually the grungier the place the better the writings. It’s always interesting to read what people were thinking and what they have to share with the world, even if it is totally stupid and pointless.

I’ve seen everything from silly quotes, bathroom jokes to random sentences and cartoon drawings. I also remember seeing a few bathroom stall writings from people asking for advice because they had no one else to turn to (pretty serious…) and actually receiving responses scribbled underneath.

Other people use the stall walls as a form of advertisement to either broadcast something they like or to promote themselves or even their website.

If your interested in checking out more, hit up this site: www.TheWritingsOnTheStall.com
[Warning: site content may offend come viewers]

What have you seen written on a bathroom stall that has been rememberable?

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Pile of garbage bags in front of an apartment building located at Dundas & High Park Ave.

This is an update to blog post “Smelly City“.

It’s been over a month since the city has gone on strike and so far I have heard nothing on the issue being resolved. This is getting ridiculous, Toronto is a mess! The trash is swallowing the streets and sidewalks causing a number of issues, which is very obvious. We are all aware that this city has rodent and raccoon problems, the garbage is currently not helping resolve the dilemma. The animals are taking free range of the city and receive a “meal” on every corner, very unsanitary.

I still believe Queen Street West to be the worst area of all when it comes to the garbage. Even though there are a few warm-hearted individuals that are going beyond their responsibilities and picking up the trash themselves, it is still impossible to keep the area clean. I think we should all do our part, large or small, and help this city become more live-able. We can do this by simply not throwing our unwanted materials onto the streets. Lets make Toronto and clean a better place, and hope the strike ends soon!

Location: Queen & Bathurst

Below is a list of the City’s temporary garbage drop-off sites:
Temporary drop-off sites are available for use by residents and yellow bag customers (business identification may be required) only. These sites are open 12 hours a day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. All garbage bags must be double bagged.

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Myself & Lauren backstage

This year was the second annual Ecosavvy Festival in Toronto and I had the privilege to be apart of the  festivities. The runway show was held at Mel Lastman Square under a row of trees, which I believe was a great idea because of the theme.

Being a model in the show was a last minute decision, I was initially the behind the scenes and casting call director along side my friend in charge, Madeleine Kassinger.

Having the opportunity to be able view both sides of things was a great experience!  I really enjoyed the backstage craziness. I would describe it as organized chaos.

The 3 lines heading down the runway this year were Me to We, 69 Vintage and Green is Black. Being apart of all three shows really made me appreciate how much planning and thought goes into making everything run smoothly.

I’d just like to thank the people that came out to the event, even thought it was raining you didn’t let the rain ruin the vibes!

I will be looking forward to the festival again next year!

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While walking in the Toronto area this ad on a street pole caught my attention, “Adopt or Foster Kitties.”

I am a huge animal lover, but unfortunately I cannot have pets in my building. It breaks my heart to see homeless animals in shelters. I want to do what I can to get them out of the shelter and place them with a loving family. If you, or anyone you know is interested in adopting a kitty please direct them to this website: http://www.petfinder.com

Their site consists of their contact information, shelters in your area and a huge list of cats looking for a place to call home.

I would urge everyone to adopt rather than buy from a pet store. The majority of animals in pet shops come from mills that mass produce animals and purchasing a pet from those places would be supporting animal cruelty. I am sure you are all aware of the term “puppy mill.” Definition: “A puppy mill, sometimes known as a puppy farm , is a large-scale commercial dog breeding facility that operates under substandard conditions regarding the well-being of dogs in their care.. Similar types of operations exist for other animals commonly kept as pets or used as feed for other animals.”

Below is a list of animal shelters and adoption agencies in the Toronto area:

Toronto Cat Rescue
Toronto Humane Society
Animal Services
Adopt-a-Dog
4 Legged Love
Abbey Cat Adoptions
Toronto Pet Network

And in the famous words of Bob Barker, “Remember to have your pets spayed or neutered.”

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I love shopping at Forever 21, but up until recently I’ve never noticed the biblical reference on the bottom of their bags. “John 3:16″. So I did a little research. The founder of Forever 21, Do-Won Chang, had “John 3:16″ printed on the bags because he wanted to show a reflection his Christian faith.

Religious beliefs are the cause of major conflicts throughout the world and have been since the beginning of time, so for such a bold statement to be placed on something so public maybe be insulting to certain people. However, I believe that Mr. Chang was not trying to be controversial. I think he was simply sharing his beliefs with the world. If he were trying to start drama, don’t you think “John 3:16″ would be printed much larger and in a more obvious place?

Personally, I think it’s great to see someone who is not afraid to stand up for something they believe in.

John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

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I was handed an event flyer for Portobello East from a friend.  I was intrigued, so in typical Julia style, I did a little research.

Portobello East is market with a unique twist. It consists of a wide variety of vendors such as art (of course!), clothing, jewelry and accessories which are all from local designers and artisans.

The markets grand opening is happening July 26th from 12pm to 6pm. This is a date I will be punching into my blackberry because I do not want to miss this event. I suggest you all to do the same and come check it out with me!

I support local talent ♥

Location: The Fermenting Cellar in The Distillery District.
Cost of admission: $5

▌Fashion+ Art Market= Portobello East ▌

Info on becoming an exhibitor is available on their website: www.portobelloeast.com

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This year the Toronto Jazz Festival is currently taking place at Nathan Philip Square-Downtown Toronto. It started June 26th and is running until July 5th.

I highly suggest taking part in the fun and checking out the music, as it is one of the city’s largest musical events.

Jazz Fest also consists of tons of talented jewelry designers who set up shop and sell their pieces at affordable prices!

So for all you fashionistas out there that crave a unique touch to your accessories, this years Jazz Festival is a must!

“We work together…We, work together.”

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1. Louboutin Clou Noeud 150 Studded Slingbacks
2. Temperley London Ava Studded Leather Jacket
3. ALDO
4. Kelsi Dagger Studded Pump
5. McQueen Studded Clutch Bag
6. Linea Pelle Colection Double Wrap Triple Row Mixed Gold Studs Cuff

These past few months I can’t seem to walk past a store window or leave a shop without
buying something studded. I’m ADDICTED!

My most recent stud purchase has been an Aldo shoulder bag (shown above) which was
a total steal for only $29.99…(how was I suppose to say no?!) But what is it about studs
that I find so eye catching and irresistible? Perhaps it’s their flashy nature or their
“punk rock” appeal or the way they give a simple article of clothing life. Whatever it is,
I can’t seem to say no.

Most girls love diamonds…but I love studs. ♥

The House of Quinn has been brought to my attention recently and I was instantly captivated
by the structure and the theme of these designs. The man behind such masterpieces is new
designer Julius Quinn Arthur, a recent graduate of the University of Brighton. The line is titled
“House of Quinn” and his debut collection “death becomes her”, a title very well suited and alluring.

Quinn has been invited to show at Berlin Fashion Week taking place from July 7th-11th 2010.
I’m already excited for the future of this amazing designer!

House of Quinns Debut collection (Photos from Lookbook)