5 Thing's I'm Loving Right Now ...

1. Morning Glamour Satin Pillowcase - Morning Glamour & MYNC Beauty: Just before Christmas I picked up this amazing pillowcase at MYNC Beauty (my go to place for eyebrow styling). It's not my first try at satin pillowcases - but I had been needing to replace my much "loved" satin pillowcase that I had for a few years. What I didn't like about my past satin pillowcases was that the pillow often popped out of the case in the middle of the night as I turned; ladies the Morning Glamour pillowcase has a stay-put pocket flap which prevents this from happening. Why sleep on a satin pillow case? - well besides all the fun print options and feeling luxurious - the satin pillow case offers many benefits: no waking up with sleep wrinkles, reduces hair frizz, and unlike cotton it doesn't absorb moisture so our (expensive) night creams stay on our face not the pillow. 

2. Gusto TV- Gusto Canada: I came across this channel during a damp, rainy, autumn day on the sofa and now I'm hooked. It has helped fueled my desire to get back in the kitchen on the regular. The channel has something for everyone, and it's not just about food, it's also about lifestyle - check out their various topics wellness, travel, house & home, entertaining. If you are looking for some inspiration I highly recommend checking out this new channel! On Fibe TV ... you will find it on channel 1619.

3. Chocolat Menier Mug- Nestle France: I was gifted this adorable mug by a girlfriend almost 15 years ago!! I love drinking my hot chocolate from it. Sometimes I just pour in enough milk and chocolate for a "traditional size" cup of hot chocolate other times I make full use of the generous size. It's size and shape make it perfect for holding with both hands - when you just need a little comforting. 

I shared the recipe on the Resilientista blog here.

4. Nivea Cocoa Butter Body Lotion - Shoppers Drug Mart: Baby it's cold outside !! Toronto has been experiencing some really harsh freezing temperatures and I'm keeping my skin luxuriously hydrated with this little drug store gem. You don't have to break the bank to keep your skin moisturized throughout the cold weather. I start and end my day with a lathering of this and I can tell you, I have not experienced the flaky dry, itchy feeling on my legs that I tend to experience during this time of year.

5. Makridis Greek Delights (Loukoumi) - Serano Bakery: If you follow High Heeled Life on instagram you will have seen various photos I share of the wonderful treats I enjoy with my afternoon tea, from this local neighbourhood bakery! Well they just upped the YUM factor with these little delights they brought in from Greece!! - and they will be creating them onsite!! HELLO ... can life get any better? I recently picked up the rose ones and it was like a sensory trip to my rose garden at our country home, during the warmth of summer. 

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,


Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

Sharing some new discoveries, and some long time fav's - 
that are helping me live life luxuriously balanced at the moment.

1. Di-Stress Mi Everyday Pairing - Miyu Beauty: It has been a busy summer here at High Heeled Life HQ , designing and creating a line of  HHL and Resilientista products that will officially launch in September. So when this little duo of beauty and tea pairing from Miyu Beauty came my way, as a prize when I attended an event for women hosted by  the folks at The Well Connected - to say this duo couldn't have come at a better time does not begin to express my joy!! 

If you follow along on Instagram, you will have seen the di-stress mi beauty tea has been a regular on my afternoon tea breaks. The blend of peppermint, licorice and chamomile blossoms is fresh and earthy - think soothing and rejuvenating together. Being caffeine-free makes it the perfect pick me up throughout the day or as a little luxurious comfort at the end of a long day. 

And when things get a little overwhelming (which with the products/ launch, working on the 2017 Resilientista Self Care Planner and some other goodies - it has been a steady stream of organized - sometimes disorganized chaos) I'm finding myself reaching for a little spritz of di-stress mi beauty essence, on the daily. The serum mist works to calm inflammation and redness, fights stress-induced free radicals, and helps to rebuild the skin barrier to promote, more resilient skin. 

2. The Chocolate Heart  - Laura Florand: While most scrambled to pick up the new summer reading releases, I made my way to the discounted tables of Indigo at Bay/Bloor.  Long time readers of HHL will know how much I love Paris and all things French - and a little chocolate and romance - OUI!! The title of this book and the cover intrigued me to give it a go - but once I started reading I was HOOKED!! This is my first time reading something by Laura and I assure you it is not going to be my last! The way she transports you to the characters deepest, raw thoughts and the way she breaks open the characters giving you a glimpse into what shaped them to the people they are today, slowly peeling back each thin layer in the most seductive manner. The Chocolate Heart - a must read for anyone who loves desserts, dreams of Paris and has a romantic side. I can't wait to read one of the many other books by Lauara Florand in the Chocolate series.

3. Coconut Yogurt - Rivier Petit Pot: Among the many things I miss about Paris is the amazing thick and creamy textured yogurt that you find at the markets, in glass or ceramic containers. Imagine my delight when my friend Susan tagged me that an Instagram friend posted about yogurt that came in little glass pots!! and shared you can get them HERE in Toronto, at Loblaws!! Disappointingly the closest Loblaws was not carrying them (insert a huge mais pourquoi! and the beginning of the hunt for elusive yogurt). I still recall the first time I got my hands on one of these magical petit pots - the excitement to get home and try it! The anticipation of would it be as great as my Paris memories? Mon amis ... if you have experienced thick, creamy yogurt from a glass/ceramic pot you know what I'm saying.  I was not disappointed - and I know had two favourite types of yogurt!! From Rivier - coconut is my go to!! The Rivier brand is part of the Chalifoux family's dairy product offerings which have been operating in Sorel-Tracy since 1920. Be sure to visit their website for information on all their products and selection of yogurts. If you haven't tried yogurt in a glass pot, I say run to your closest Loblaws (not that these darlings are expensive - but they seem to offer the best regular price of $4.99 for a package of 4 and often on sale for $3.99 . I have seen them in most Loblaws stores now, and I know Pusateri's also carries them), you will thank me later. 

4. LIP GLACÉ - in nectar- Laura Mercier: I have been reaching for this little gem all summer long! It easily glides on and is long lasting. In the summer I really like to keep my look natural and I love that I don't need to use a lip linear - it stays in place and the hint of nectar shade is perfect. It provides a natural dewy shine making my lips appear a little fuller and smooth. Though the CNE may mark the unofficial end of summer ... according to the weather specialists, Toronto is still in for a lot of hot days ahead, so if you are not ready to return to lipstick just yet and find glosses too thick and shiny - add this little gem to your make up - visit the counter at Holts on Bloor.

5. Taming of the Curls - Deva Curl: Sometimes its good to give something new a try. I have been happy with my current curly hair styling products - they work well, so as any gal with natural curls will tell you - if its working don't change it. But, recently when I forgot to pick up some of my regular product, I took it as a sign that it was the day to try the Deva styling products that a dear friend had included in a recent care package to me. Skeptically I looked at the Set it Free and Light Defining Gel - I'm use to a cream product to lock in my curls - so I combined the two Deva products. I applied and let my curls air dry ... the results were so amazing - soft, shapely curls - no frizz -  I immediately shared a selfie of my curls with my social media friends. High humidity and blow outs don't go together (at least not after 5-10 minutes of leaving salon unless you agree to lots of product) - so you may as well embrace them au natural curls!  If your products aren't living up to your expectations or you are considering trying something new as a natural curly haired gal - who lives for her blow outs - I say give Deva Curl a try! 

For previous 5 Things I'm Loving Right Now - click here, 

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,

Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

Summer is in full force here in Toronto! Temperatures have held steady in the high 20s feeling like low 30s and this past week 30s feeling above 40s. Toronto has had the driest couple of months, according to the weather reporters. Here is what I'm currently loving:

1. Quenching Coconut Curls - OGX: With these crazy temps - blow outs are often forgone for au natural curls. To keep my curls looking their best I have found this little shampoo and conditioner duo are gentle and nourishing on my locks, but mighty at protecting it from the dreaded frizz. Oh, and let me tell you - the coconut smell is out of this world!!

2. Pumice Stone - Revelon: Is it just me, or do your heels and big toe seem to need a little more exfoliating in the summer? Maybe it's just that we see our feet more - with sandals and open toe shoes being our go to. In either case I find using a pumice stone in the shower is a quick way to keep my feet looking smooth. This one has been doing a great job at keeping my feet sandal ready.

3. Shea Butter Ultra Rich Lip Balm - L'Occitane: It's not just the coldness of winter that can dry out your lips. Being outdoors in the hot sun can also cause your lips to be dry and flaky. I keep this fav around all year - and after a day at Toronto's waterfront or just being out about the city - I make sure I'm giving my lips a little extra nourishing attention. I love this because, you don't need to use a lot and the creamy texture easily glides on. Perfect for wearing alone, under lipstick and for after sun care.

4. Toronto Sunrise & Sunsets- Time & Date: Loving that there is day light before 6 am and until 9 pm! I find with the nicer weather and extra day light hours I am more productive, my mood is happier and with longer day light hours - after a long day writing  I can still enjoy being outdoors. If you are wanting to get out and enjoy both the sunrise and sunset - look up times for your area Here.

5. Intense Curl Cream - Moroccanoil: This is a real curl and time saver. This leave-in conditioner moisturizes and helps fight stubborn frizz without being sticky or weighing my hair down. It is great for refreshing curls - in the morning I spray my hair with a little Evian water and apply a couple pumps of the intense curl cream - my curls look defined, hydrate and bouncy.

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,

Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

1. Hydrabio Sérum - Bioderma: This little gem came to me by way of a swag bag I received at an event hosted by Cocktail Crawl. I had been considering trying a serum for some time - and since I am a huge fan of their product Sensibio H20 make-up remover (especially for the delicate eye area), I thought why not give it a try. I was surprised at how light it feels on my skin, no stickiness, leaving my skin feeling completely hydrated. I have used it alone and under my regular moisturizer. For the short time I have been using this about a month I am truly impressed.

2. Shayne - Shayne Stolz: I first mentioned Shayne and his angelic voice here when I heard him sing while out for dinner with Mr. G. at the beginning of 2016. Since then Shayne's self title CD has been released. I have been listening to the CD non-stop (I kid you not) ~ I've had it as soft (low) background music for writing, relaxing in the bath and I've had it cranked as I get ready for an outing or doing some chores around the house. Lovelies if you are looking for some easy listening music pick up a CD.

3. Ultimate Youth Power Neck Emulsion - Racinne: Another product that came by way of the Cocktail Crawl swag bag ... and definitely being added to my regular skin care routine basket! The neck is often an over-looked part of daily skin care routines - I know I certainly have been over looking it - yet our neck is just as likely to show those tell-tale signs of aging we strive so hard to minimize in our complexion.  Since I started using this on my neck regularly - I have noticed the skin feels and looks smoother and the scar left from when I was trached (after my accident)is visibly diminishing.                 

4. Biological Peeling Gel- Guinot (at Elmwood Spa): If you have been reading HHL for  some time you already know how much I encourage getting a professional facial - even if only seasonal. Our skin changes - due to climate, what we eat, and yes - as we mature; so it is important to have an expert give our face a good check-up (just like the dentist for our teeth). I recently discovered that my skin is becoming sensitive - especially around my cheeks - who knew me with combination skin. Regular exfoliation is important - especially as we age - but I have been staying away from grainy facial scrubs because they often feel rough (of course not knowing my skin was also sensitive probably didn't help). This product was used during a recent facial at Elmwood Spa - and I was impressed at how smooth it felt as the aesthetician massaged it over my face...it gained a little texture when she add a little water - but still no harsh grainy feel. I'm using it twice a week and am seeing my BB creams going on much easier with no occasional eraser shavings (as I refer to the dry skin build up you see after you apply BB cream or foundation to skin that is in need of good exfoliation). 

5. Power Source for Women - Susan Sommers: I recently meant Susan Sommers, one of the authors of this book through a women's networking event, at 71 she is an inspiration for getting fit and staying fit. As, I read the book my head kept nodding in agreement - with the tools and strategies sprinkled throughout the book. A must have book to add to your self care basket.

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,

Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

1. Black and Red Animalier Folding Umbrella - Pasotti: We have been blessed with some amazing above seasonal temperatures, here in Toronto, lately - but June remains unpredictable when it comes to rain. The weather report has been wrong on many occasions (sometimes we don't get rain - other times we do), so I have been reaching for my Pasotti black and red animalier folding umbrella. On the days that it actually rained I was kept dry and on the days when the rain bypassed us ~ I was not carrying around my standard size umbrella. What I love about Pasotti aside from the stylish designs and many handle options is that these are handcrafted in Italy - since 1956.

2. Thé ~ Marie Antoinette- Nina's Paris: I was first captivated by this tea on my trip to Paris in 2015, when I visited Nina's Paris tea salon. My little tea supply I had brought back was starting to deplete and I wasn't sure how I was going to replenish. Thankfully it can now be ordered on-line via a Canadian Distributor TNCB.

3. Veet Facial Cream Kit - Veet: I don't know about you but paying $10 plus to have a few (thankfully) straggly hairs removed from my upper lip is a little much. So on a Shopper's Drug Mart run a couple of months ago I picked up this facial hair removal cream by Veet. Lovelies I don't know why I didn't try this before! 5 minutes and hair is gone ... and if a couple of stray begin to grow - no waiting until there is "enough" to justify making a waxing appointment. Super budget friendly - and I recently even used it to do my bikini line... I left it on about 8-10 minutes and voila ! silky smooth and hair stays away for a couple of weeks or so.

4. L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Lotion- L'Occitane: Now that it's getting warmer (hot) I prefer a lighter body lotion vs the rich creamy ones I use through the winter. L'Occitane body lotion is my go to, it's fast absorbing and leaves my skin feeling silky smooth without the heaviness of a cream.

5. Comfort Slide Flossers - Sunstar G.U.M: I have been using these slide flossers for a few years. After my accident using the regular string dental floss was not easy lacking  supination and pronation in my right wrist. These are so easy to use and gently glide between the teeth. Bring on the fresh corn on the cob - I'm ready!!!

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,


Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

1. Foundation Primer - Hydrating - Laura Mercier: This little unexpected gem came as a sample in my Holt Renfrew Spring Beauty Bag. Even though it's meant to go under your foundation, I use it on its own and find that it just softens the overall look of my face. I noticed LM offers one that is oil free and as the weather warms up I may have to give it a try; but for now this primer is doing great. I did use it under foundation a couple of times and was pleased to discover my foundation went on with greater ease and the overall finish was silky smooth.

2. Ombrelle - SPF 60 Face Stick- Garnier: Last summer I used the SPF 50+ face stick and was most pleased to not end up with red nose and forehead (when I remembered to apply it) - this year with the weather man predicating an extremely hot summer I'm preparing with SPF 60. I loved the compact size (think small glue stick)- easily tucks into a pocket as it does a hand bag, for those unexpected afternoons on a patio sipping some cold beverages.

3. Ballet Slippers nail polish - Essie: While I am adventurous with my toe polish when it comes to my hands I like to keep my nail colour neutral/simple and this Essie shade is one of my summer favs.

4. Cherry Blossoms - High Park: Each year I look forward to Mother Nature's show of the cherry blossoms at High Park. This year with the warmer temps, followed by a cold snap in April ~ the show was a little sparse. But, I did manage to find these beauties by the tennis courts off the Bloor street entrance and was tickled pink (punt intended) to take in the blossoming delight.

5. Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers - Converse: These have been my go to for getting around Toronto, whether I'm wearing jeans, shorts, or a casual dress - they seem to go with everything and are tres comfortable. Can't wait to get my white ones in rotation and have been lusting over a red pair too!!

What are you loving right now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,


Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email

5 Things I'm Loving Right Now ...

1. Crumb Cleaner (ladybug) - Starfrit:

This has become one of my favourite kitchen gadgets, it quickly makes crumbs (or any dry dirt) disappear. I keep it next to the toaster/bread board and when entertaining table crumbs are easily cleared. Ladies this is a must have - thank you Mr. G. for adding it to my Christmas stocking!

2. Kinky Girls - shampoo and conditioner - Marc Anthony:

Having been blessed with curly hair (though I have not always felt this way), I'm constantly on the look out for products that will help me keep my curls, bouncy, voluminous and not weigh down my (thin) hair. I have been using Kinky Girls shampoo and conditioner for a few months now and have been very pleased with the results. Oh and it smells great too! If you want luscious curls I would say give this duo a try.   

3. The 7 Deadly Zins - Michael David Winery:

This wine had me at its name! Introduced by a fellow red wine loving friend (thank you Ms. Catherine) the smooth, full body taste totally seduced me! A California wine offering fresh ground pepper and an array of spices, thanks to the 12 months in American oak. Dried fruit (cranberries and dates) on the mid palate, with a finish reminiscent to a slice of warm boysenberry pie. This may very well become the summer of 2016 red wine at the High Heeled Life country home.

4. Ambre Vanillé Honey Bath - Laura Mercier:

If you are a long time reader of HHL, you already know that this is a staple in my self care ~ but with all the garden work I have been doing at HHL country home and HQ in the city, I'm super loving it right now! Where do I start in describing this heavenly bath treat? The delicate vanilla fragrance instantly comforts, relaxes and transports me into a state of calm; the luscious rich and abundance of bubbles from 2-3 twirls of the wooden wand - leave my skin feeling silky soft, and nourished.

5. Thirsty Buddha - Buddha Brands Co:

Staying hydrated is a lot easier when you have a little flavour - and coconut water is a great alternative to plain "old" water. But not all coconut water is appealing to my taste buds. With the hot temperatures of summer just around the corner, I was thrilled to have recently discovered Thirsty Buddha. Along with being great tasting natural coconut water it's: non-GMO Project Certified, gluten free, zero fat, zero cholesterol and use BPA free cans and resealable tetras.

What Are You Loving Right Now?

You are the curator of your life so live it luxuriously ,

Stay in Step with High Heeled Life ...

Don't Miss a post get HHL Email Updates 

Subscribe to Celia M. Living My High Heeled Life by Email