She said yes!

I am interrupting my reports on my online dating escapades to announce wonderfully exciting news- after 4 years of enduring our family, E decided to fully emmerse himself in all of our craziness by asking our dear little S to be his wife!!!

As I walked into my parents' "pied-a-terre" in jersey, mom immediately pointed out where "E proposed to us!" She described how a nervous looking E sat my parents down to ask if he could ask S to marry him... Of course they said "yes" and then, all that was left was a week long wait until they left for Italy (their annual trip to visit E's family) a long flight, and a few days of visiting before their weekend spent alone during which he finally, was able to pop THE question!

In true "K" form, I was in a port-o-potty at Osheaga when I received the 1st call with the wonderful news. Luckily, I didn't answer and opted to call back when I exited the washroom... So I called back and instead of words, S held up her left hand and there was her gorgeous engagement ring. I started to cry (happy tears, obviously.) Got to love montrealers because as I cried for my sister's wonderful news, fellow Osheaga-goers stopped in their tracks to make sure I was ok. When I told them they were tears of joy because of my little sister's engagement to a wonderful man, they took it upon themselves to get on FaceTime as well, in order to congratulate them. It was just amazing.

So here I am. I cannot wait for them to get back so we can celebrate (& get details- when is this happening? What color should I wear? Where?) urg, this also means yet another Wedding Diet!!!!! Yay!



Regardless of these details, the one thing I know is that E has made my littlest sister friend as happy as she ever could be, and that is worth more than anything in the world to me. (And if I am going to be selfish, I now officially have the two BEST brothers-in-law that have ever walked this earth!!! Lucky girl I am!)

So here's to you guys- S&E, I love you both so much!

Here's to a life of love, laughs and a whole lot more.

Much love

Xoxoxox

K

Turns out... I'm a chicken.

I already have to make an amendment to the last post I wrote: I will do 1 thing that scares me a week, not per day! (That plan was a real quick way to let myself down!)

I have signed myself up and even chatted with a few people so now, the obvious next step is to actually agreed to go out with one of these people. So, scary adventure of the week- accepting an invitation. CHECK! Right now I feel proud of myself for accepting my own challenge but guaranteed, I'm going to want to cancel it 6 times before I actually get there. I won't though, that much I have promised myself....and my sisters /friends. (No getting out of it now.) even my grandmother has come to understand and agree with my taking on this challenge!

It will definitely happen this week so I will keep you posted on how that goes. I am hoping that the incident that happened today (ya, the one where I slipped in my wet flip flops, dropped my phone and had my umbrella turn inside out... Simultaneously) is out of my system and that the awkward, sometimes clumsy K stays home for this experience.

Well, there's always a bright side, right? If I do manage to embarrass myself horribly, I may not get another date but at least you'll get a good laugh!

Xoxox
K

Starting over.

OK, so admittedly, my sisters and I haven't done a great job at keeping this alive. I suppose life has gotten in the way a bit. A baby and new house for T, a new condo and busy working life for S. As for myself, the eldest of the three, I wish I had more exciting news to share. Instead, I have an encyclopedia-long list of "is this my life?" moments and tales to tell. So instead of keeping them to myself (as any normal, self respecting person would do,) I have decided to share...

Where do I start? The engagement I called off? The house I had to sell? The job I love but am not guaranteed of getting again? Or my broken heart?

I am a 32 year old woman. I have had a fair number of long term relationships and wonderful men in my life. And most recently, heartbreak. I suppose it's normal to feel as though your world has been turned upside down when someone you care about so much turns and walks out of your life. I won't be that girl who goes and gets some crazy "I am strong!" tattoo (an anchor, a flying bird etc,) cut off all my hair or pack up and move to a new city. Nope. Instead, I have succumb to the *friendly* bullying of my friends and family (yes, my mother is on board) and have signed up for online dating (WHAT!?!?!) Yup, I have made a deal with myself: since what I've done my whole life hasn't seemed to have worked for me, I will now do at least ONE thing a day that scares me- two days ago, that was signing up for Plenty of Fish and Match.com (depending who I speak to, some say the "pay" sites are better, others believe in full access.)

 For those of you who have never ventured into the land of online dating, wow (!) it's a crazy place!
In order to manage my existence out there, my dear friend LP has laid out guidelines for my success:

1) Be "light"
This came about after the first few messages I received and felt AWFUL because most of the guys who had written were... not my type. OK, they were not attractive to me. This left me feeling bad and asking myself if I am cut out for this game. LP explained that I have to be ok with saying "no" to people and although I don't have to be mean (obviously) I also don't have to spend so much time considering how they'll feel if I don't answer. *Light*

2) It's ok if a guy asks to hold my hand.
I don't mean this literally but rather that it's ok to take chances and perhaps allow for things I am not use to. This rule comes about after a friend almost refused a 2nd date with a guy because he was "too nice." Long story short, she agreed and I am fairly certain they will end up married and having their "happily ever after."

3) Date, date, date.
I have never been on a date. This is no lie. Of course I have been taken out but always by my existing boyfriend. How, you ask did I get said boyfriend if I have never been on a date? Simple. I have ALWAYS dated friends. There is not a single guy I have dated who wasn't my friend for at least the period of a year before we began dating- it always kind of, just happened. So although I am wary of my ability to meet and "fall" for someone in the dating scene (online dating nonetheless!) I have made a deal that I WILL DATE.

So there you have it. This is where my 32 years of existence has brought me. It's OK though. Don't go feeling sad for me! Instead, you can check in every once in a while and perhaps follow me on my adventures online dating (I'm like the new Alice in Wonderland!)

Here we go!!!

And The Winner Is...

Good Saturday Morning to all our readers! Even though it is grey and dull here in Montreal, the temperatures are slowly creeping up and that in itself is something to celebrate. As we mentioned in our past two posts (which can be found here and here) our extremely talented friend Stephanie Paul has finally launched her brand new website. It is an absolutely gorgeous website, with clean lines, high-definition photos of her work and easy-to-navigate buttons. You can even shop directly on her site. She has given us not only the honor of announcing her website, but she also gave us a one-of-a-kind handmade piece of her jewelry to give away to one of our lucky readers. Well, today is the day and we will announce the winner below. First thing's first though... Life of Three is proud to present to you StephaniePaulJewelry.com ! 

I know that Stephanie Paul Jewelry's new website is going to be a big hit. She is so talented and her gorgeous pieces are all high quality and handmade. Now, without further delay we will announce our winner that was chosen using an online random name selector. Congratulations Tracy Cousins! We will be in touch with you via email to get you your prize. Wishing you all a great weekend!

With Love,

S

Good News- Stephanie Paul Giveaway Extended

Good morning everyone! I hope that, despite this grey and dreary day, everyone is having a good morning so far. It would be nice if the temperatures could get milder and the sun could come out of hiding. It's not like tomorrow is the first day of spring or anything...

I have some good news this morning! We will be extending the FREE JEWELRY GIVEAWAY for one more week. All you have to do is comment below and share the link on your facebook page by clicking the facebook link below. Once you have done that, you will be entered to win a free piece of Stephanie Paul Jewelry valued at over $100! Here are a few more of her pieces. 

Variety of Custom Jewelry made to order

Silver Bracelet and Earrings

As you can see, and as I've mentioned, Stephanie's designs are extremely beautiful, top-quality and are all designed and hand-made by her here in Montreal. They can be chosen from her collection or custom pieces can also be ordered. So don't miss your chance to WIN one of her pieces. Comment below and you will automatically be entered. Good luck!

With Love,

S

Stoned

I have a secret. It's not a deep dark regret, or anything illegal... but it is a secret. It is one that I find myself thinking more and more about as I get older and am faced with difficulties in life. I secretly wish that I were more artistic. I wish I had some sort of outlet for my feelings: I wish I could paint, draw, dance, sing, sculpt, craft... anything... but, unfortunately, it's just not in me. I couldn't draw a circle to save my life, I suck at dancing (picture white-man's overbite combined with Elaine Benese), and I have tried to paint and just end up frustrated and paint-covered. Now we all know that jealousy and envy are emotions that don't look good on anyone but sometimes, I connect with creative people and wish I had what they had.

One of these people is a good friend of ours named Stephanie. She is so incredible talented. Until I saw her work, I wasn't really aware that someone could be so creative in more than one type of art. But she is. I've seen her paintings and they are amazing. She has made incredibly beautiful vases. But something she is most passionate about is her jewelry making. My sisters and I have some of her pieces, one of which I wear every day and never take off, and people cannot believe that they are hand-made by someone we know. I am going to share some of them for you in this post.

Black Spinel Drop Earrings 

Turquoise and Ruby Earrings 

Pink Spinel and Emerald Chain with Diamond Charm

Faceted Onyx Lariate that can be worn in a variety of ways. I have one, and when you wear it with an LBD... Wow. 

Ruby Cluster Necklace

Black Spinel Rosary

Stephanie's Jewelry is not only beautiful, but it is all designed and handmade in her studio in Montreal. More often than not, ' designer' jewelry you find in boutiques is actually mass-produced gold/silver-plated low-end products. Stephanie uses high quality faceted stones and the gold jewelry is gold-filled (meaning the interior is silver) instead of gold-plated which is known to rub off. Her designs are unique, well-made and can be custom designed. 

I will be doing a follow up post with more of her designs next week because Stephanie has generously given a piece of her hand-made jewelry valued at over $100 to be used in our "Giveaway". Her website and online store will also be up next week so orders can be placed directly online. To be eligible for the FREE GIVEAWAY , share this link on facebook and then comment below by next Thursday, March 21. We will announce the random winner next Friday. So goodluck! 

**Don't forget to comment in the 'comments' section below once you've shared the post to qualify for the giveaway!

With Love,

S

Spring Fashion Forward

Good Sunday Evening! After an amazing spa weekend up north with E, I am feeling relaxed and ready to take on the week. The sun is finally returning and, with that, the temperatures are rising (somewhat) and the snow is starting to melt (somewhat). But, that's not how I know Spring is coming.... Instead I know Spring is coming because my friend/old co-worker has sent me the customary 'Spring Text' saying: "You haven't done a fashion post in a long time. How am I supposed to know what to wear for Spring/Summer?". Well, here it is... My Spring Fashion Post. I have chosen to share mostly styles from Zara because it is moderately priced and can be worn by both younger and... more mature women. A few of the other links are from a site that a friend of mine works for called Gilt that I am absolutely obessed with. It has everything from clothes for women, men and children as well as stuff for the home, beauty tools and makeup... and a lot more. I spend much more time on this site than I would like to admit. 

I have decided to start with dresses since I absolutely adore them. I think there is nothing better than having a good dress collection because, when you're not in the mood to choose an 'outfit', just throw on a dress and head out the door. Easy Peasy. This Backless Lacy Dress can be worn to work/cocktail hour with a cute blazer and then, when the jacket comes off... sexy LBD 

I want this Dress with Chain Shoulders... like, I want it and will probably drag T out to Zara this week on a wild mission to track it down. Since I have a bit of a square body type, this shape dress seems to work well on me. Chances are, if you see me this summer... I will probably be wearing this dress... more than once.

This Zara Floral Print Dress is adorable. I don't think I could quite pull it off (though I hate that saying), I think it is fun, playful and quite versatile. I also happen to think it would look quite lovely with a jean jacket.  

Though I am doing a Spring fashion post, I am really really loving these J Brand Olivia Embroidered Skinny Jean. I love everything about them from the color, to fit and the added texture above and below the knee. I often wear denim in the Spring with a bright top like this Alex + Alex V-Neck Blouse in Cherry.

Now, we (meaning I) may not all have the body for it... but if you're feeling particularly Kim-Kardashiany (please forgive me for that one) then this Zara Asymmetric Crop Top with matching White Pencil Skirt is for you. 

Body thing also applies to this Striped Guipure Lace Top that my Grandma H wanted me to buy for my birthday last weekend. She has great taste.. but I don't know if it would flatter me. 

As for shoes... I apologize, but you're on your own. Mainly because, if it were up to me, everyone would walk around in these all summer, but hey! Nautical's in!

With Love,

S

Scar Tissue

Good Saturday Evening! Is it just me, or does the first week home from vacation always seem never-ending? The vacation seems to zip by and then, you're home... watching the clock waiting for the weekend. I really shouldn't be complaining though because I know how lucky I am to have been able to enjoy an amazing family vacation on the sunny island of St-Martin.

Though it wasn't quite as wild as our girls trips that you can read about here and here, it was relaxing... just what the doctor ordered. What seems to happen when you get back from any vacation, however, is that your mind wanders to the 'what ifs'. What if I chose to pack up and leave this cold, snowy, grey climate and live something tropical? What if I make a life-altering decision to relocate? What if I were able to start a new life somewhere? Where would I go? What would I do there? Would I be happy? 

I find myself asking these questions any time I leave my hometown, but this time... the feeling that I could be happy living somewhere else is one that I just can't seem to shake. The inevitable will happen though: the sun will return and the weather will get warmer, the wind will die down, the grass will peek through the melting snow and, like the snow, our dreams of living elsewhere will melt away too. This is what I have decided I will call "Winter Scar Tissue". Now... I know that many cold-weather dwellers enjoy the cold and snow. I know that there are people who love to ski, to skate, to snowshoe and to snuggle up by the fire with a nice glass of red wine at the end of the day. I like the wine... but could do without the rest of it. 

I know I know... the grass is always greener. But... at least they have grass all year round! I guess it really comes down to my family. I have traveled quite a bit, even living in Australia for a few months, but I know I am too close to my family to leave them. I know that even if I had an opportunity to leave this cold cold (cold) place, I probably would have a very difficult time actually doing it. It's one thing to think it... another to do it. So, I guess for now I am going to have to settle for family vacations in the caribbean and summers in Italy. But hey... a girl can dream!

Until next time

With Love,

S

Notte Italiana

Good Evening Everyone!

Well it definitely has been a while... okay... more than a while. So much has changed since our last blog post. Most of it is for the best. I promised, among other things, to post more on our blog in 2014. Since T is busy with baby, and K hardly has any time outside of work... this may be Life Of One for a little while, but I'll do my best to write as much as possible. 

This Holiday Season was definitely a busy one. It was baby E's first Christmas and I think we managed to pack in as much Holiday Fun as we possible could. She got to sit on Santa's lap and didn't cry at all, she witnessed cookie baking, gingerbread-house making, tree decorating, and a whole lot of fa-la-la. Not to mention her first trip on a plane to visit B's side of the family. T & B are lucky because from what I hear, she's a perfect little flyer! In the fall, E & I bought a condo and we are enjoying all of the perks of owning our first home. 

A picture of our almost all white kitchen 

We are also enjoying having Mama H home for many weeks at a time and we know how blessed we are that she is (almost) completely back to her old self. Since I am just getting over a cold, E and I decided to spend most of the weekend at home and tonight is an all-out Italian Night at our house. 

We are currently really enjoying watching old movies... Last night was Sophia Loren in "Marriage Italian Style". Tonight it's "Three Coins in the Fountain"

Italian movies just aren't the same when they are watched while enjoying homemade Italian food now are they?

My specialty is homemade pizza. I follow the Willam Sonoma Focaccia Recipe which is super simple and can be found by clicking here

E is enjoying the Kitchenaid Pasta Attachment that I got him for Christmas. Tonight it's homemade Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli. His recipe is from and old Italian cookbook, but you can find an easy-to-follow recipe here

Wishing you all health and happiness in 2014 (you know what they say... better late than never), and I will be back soon with another post. Until then...

With Love,

S