I recently had no choice but to turn 25.

Birthday’s have always been a big thing to me; week long celebrations that are over the top, and unnecessary.  For me it isn’t even about the gifts, it’s the fact that for one day it’s ALL about me. And if it isn’t, it can easily become about me…just ONE day.  I can do, wear and say just about anything I want and deal with the repercussions the next day (thankfully, I haven’t had to).

This year though, I wanted to escape it, pretend it never happened.  Being 25 is that number where you are no longer a ‘young adult’ or in your ‘early twenties’, you are an ADULT. To make my oh-so-sob-worthy long story short, I survived with only a twisted ankle from cobblestones and 5-inch platforms and a dehydrated palette the next day to realize I am still that same person I was when I was 24…just a little older and wiser.  Below I share with you some of my wisdom I have learned over my ‘Quarter of a Century’ of  life:

25 things I have learned in 25 years:

1. 25 is so much better than 24. Mainly because I can say I’m a quarter of a century old and people always look super confused at first and then look up to you because your old and wise. Clearly not the case.

2. Fake it until you make it. And if you still haven’t made it (quite like myself…) Stop faking it and be yourself…then you really start to make it…

3. You can pick your friends you can’t pick your family (which brings me to number 4).

4. So learn to be patient. Patience is a virtue. Virtue (Latin: virtus, Greek: ἀρετή “arete”) is moral excellence. A virtue is a positive trait or quality deemed to be morally good and thus is valued as a foundation of principle and good moral being. Personal virtues are characteristics valued as promoting collective and individual greatness. The opposite of virtue is vice…….. Therefore the more patient you are (and trust me hunny I’m not) the more of a good moral being oozing excellence you will become.

5. Don’t eat yellow snow. I tried once back in my youth…it wasn’t pineapple flavored folks.

6. Bangs only look good on certain people. These people do not include me.

7. I never would have IMAGINED the day I would hand my self over to become a red head and in turn adopt the nickname fire crotch. Good idea Michaela, aren’t red heads supposed to smart? Well if I’m now as intelligent as a red head I should be smart enough to dye it back brown…but I’m not. So fire crotch I will remain and rock it I will. #TeamRed

8. Don’t believe a word my dad says. Seriously, I have fought fights I bet my life on saying “I’m right go ask my dad” so we do, and low and behold he was jerking my chain. And I look like an idiot who knows jack shit.

9. Having twin sisters is only fun when they are young and dumb enough to believe one of them was adopted.

10. Soul mate. A term used prior to break-up #1, #2, #3… The only soul mate I have stumbled upon is an African American-Australian… You got soul…mate?

11. Spell check is for Americans as it still does not recognize the Canadian English ie.  Center/Centre and Favorite/Favourite. (If you could see my screen right now you would notice the squiggly red lines under the Canadian version).

12. I never new my status could be judged from the model of phone I am carrying…but apparently my blackberry bold makes me a commoner.

13. I am the last existing human being on this planet who owns a PC. A “personal computer” is what PC stands for for all you iPeople out there. It’s antique…you could say I’m a collector of sorts.

14. Dancing aint’ my thing. If you want a taste of my talent…just think shopping cart, sprinkler, bus driver…you get the picture.

15. My dog and I have riveting and enlightening chats. In reality I am talking to myself. Which is rather fascinating that I can carry on such a lengthy conversation with myself. Psychologically speaking, probably only fascinating because I’m insane.

16. Flip flops are a way of life and I want to live it. First step…moving out of Vancouver.

17. Not everything is about me, but since I like it all about me, #15 makes sense. And I am in fact NOT insane.

18. I’ve been searching for a passion, for something I’m really good at. I mean, I’m GOOD at everything I do but not GREAT at one thing. Hopefully sooner then my next milestone (30 eff) I figure this out. Keep y’all posted.

19. I love my friends. They are my laughter, love, lessons, leaders, letdowns, and LIFE. They pick me up when I’m down and support me when I’m up! I owe everything to them so thanks for making me so freaking awesome. (This includes family cause you guys are my friends…lucky for me I picked my friends and if I got to pick my family, I’d pick them just the way they were).

20. Chivalry is NOT dead. Its hiding, somewhere that isn’t in Vancouver, or LA, or Toronto, or New York or London or Greece…wait a second…nope. Manners aren’t a person, they can’t die.  Chivalry is alive, just hiding somewhere.

21. My birthday is ACTUALLY on the 11th…I was born at 11:59 on the 11th and the birth ended on 12:01 on the 12th. It was also in the States where the charge you PER day so they rounded it up and didn’t get charged for the 11th.  My dad broke the news and I had to go to a shrink to overcome the fact that I had been “living a lie” for 21 years (drama queen). Which brings me back to #8…hmmmm.   And back to #15…Talking to my dog is the safest.

22. Maturity is being able to stay home by yourself with all electronics off being able to read a book or doing something creative and feel just freaking fantastic being with yourself.  To some that may sound immature, but to me it means I have matured and learned that I like being with myself and nothing out there that I am “missing out on” compares. SO THERE.

23. If everyone threw their problems into a pile, we would instantly pull ours back out. Except of course if you were the Dalai Lama, I’d pull his…but he doesn’t count cause I can’t see the DALAI LAMA THROWING ANYTHING…he would probably place it lovingly on the ground.

24. I still think I’m going to be famous. Don’t know how, why, when…but I am destined. Which brings me back to #18. Soon my friends.

25. I love my life. The good, the bad, the ugly. I love it all. It has made me who I am and I am so lucky. Contrary to what some may think, I like who I have become. Bring on aging bitches!!!!!

Happy Quarter of a Century To Me.

Continue reading on JustJared.com

1.  Classic Button Down:  Always known to be a staple, but this season make it more whimsical with a fun color, and lighter material.

2.  The Long Vest: Layer this as you would a lighter jacket.  This will be your wardrobes  ultimate update piece.

3.   Statement Clutch:  Make it as bright and as bold as you possibly can.  Use this accessory to express your unique style.

4.  Shrunken Sweater:  wear it alone, with a high wasted skirt or pant or try pairing it over a longer dress shirt.  Tres, Tres chic!

5.  Patterned Skinny Jean:  There are so many amazing patterned jeans out right now.  Incorporate these into a day or night look.

6.  Floral Blazer:  This piece can be worn over everything, as it should be.  Rain or shine…this is a fun ‘pick me up’ addition to any outfit.

7. Drawstring Shorts:  This casual short no longer needs to be casual.  Wear it with a cute wedge and silk blouse and you are ready to hit the town.

8.  Fancy Tee:  T-shirts are not just for the gym.  Invest in something a little fancier and wear it with boyfriend jeans or a pencil skirt and it will still look sharp.

9.  Neon Necklace:  The easiest way to dress up a T-shirt.  This statement piece will always keep you looking on top of your style game.

10. Statement Sunglasses:  Not only do you need these to protect your eyes, but you need to be looking fab in your sunnies.  Invest in something with color and a creative shape.  You won’t believe how much wear you’ll get out of this splurge.

I don’t know about you, but I have a mom as well as some adopted Moms I have acquired along the way.

Here are 10 last minute, easy and affordable gift ideas to show the special women in your life, how much you love them:

1. A framed photo of the two of you:  Make this gift even more special by adding a personalized note on the back letting your dear mom know how much she means to you.

2.  Take a class together:  Get her out of the house and try introducing her to something new like yoga or a zumba class.  She will love the idea of trying something new with her daughter.

3. Gift basket:  Put together a personalized gift basket. Add scented candles, bath salts, bath oils and a loofah.   Let her know that you will help out with her daily chores so she can enjoy a relaxing bath away from her responsibilities.

4. Breakfast in bed:  Set your alarm and beat her to the kitchen. Put together all her favorites and present it to her in bed on a tray. Make it extra special with some fresh cut flowers and a thoughtful home made card.  Try this crustless quiche recipe we posted earlier this week.

5.  Gift certificate:  Treat mom to a 1 hour massage or a mani/pedi. This will be sure to put a smile on her face.

6.  Cookbook:  This year I picked up a series of cook books of my moms favorite food network star. I know she is going to love it.

7. Tea time:  Tea sets are a great gift. You can customize by adding her favorite teas. Teavana has some amazing loose leaf tea kits.

8. Personalized stepping stones:  These are great for the garden or the yard. This way she can see it all year round.

9. Coupon Books:  Get creative and make coupons redeemable at any time.  Make them special and fun and include things such as, babysitting for a night, doing the laundry, cooking dinner or taking the dog for a walk.  This is a FREE way of showing your appreciation for your mom.

10. Flowers:  Instead of buying a bouquet for your mom, check-out this DIY video Shay made with her Mom and pick out all of your mom’s favorites and make a beautiful arrangement from scratch!

I may be alone here but I tend to get so wrapped up on “Jody Island” that I sometimes forget to acknowledge the others around me…. And let’s be honest there is only so much you can take from the fountain of others kindness and generosity. SO I decided to kill 2 birds with 1 stone and do a bit of spring cleaning in my kitchen, while also turning my “junk” into  ”just because gifts”.  Even if you don’t end up re-gifting these items, they are a great way to breathe new life into something that you already have!

Here are a few of my favourite ways to utilize some old or random trinkets:

1. Chalk Board Serving Tray  or Message Board - This was SO easy! 

What you will need:

• Tray
• Chalkboard paint
• Q-tips (just incase you make a mistake)
• Sponge paint brush

What to do:

1. Clean the tray with soap and water to wash away any dirt or grime
2. Do your first layer of paint, let dry for 1-2 hours
3. Do a second coat… and your done!

2. Labelled wine glasses

What you will need:

• Wine Glasses
• Chalkboard paint
• Paper towel
• Q-tips (just in case you make a mistake)
• Sponge paint brush

1. Clean wine glasses
2. Pant the bottom rim or dip into the chalkboard paint, and let dry for 1-2 hours (I dipped mine because its easier to get a straight line in the top that way). You could also using masking tape and wrap the wine stem so you paint below it.
3. Do a second coat… and your done!

What can you use it for?

If you have ever entertained you know that someone always asks “is that my glass”?   More traditional ways of identifying glasses are with wine tags or stick on labels, but why not try something new and have people write there names on the glasses with chalk?!

Hope you enjoy making these as much as given them – Happy Gifting!

Aside from this entire spread being tres formi-dab-le, check out the heaps of tool draping under the girls.  I was immediately inspired by this, went into my fabric box and pulled out all the amazing tulle I have collected over the years.  I have decided to make some cute shrugs….they are in the works…Can’t wait to show you guys when I’m finished!

(Tulle: a lightweight, very fine netting, which is often starched. It can be made of various fibers, including silk, nylon, and rayon. Tulle is most commonly used for veils, gowns (particularly wedding gowns), and ballet tutus. Tulle comes in a wide array of colors and it can also easily be dyed.)

That being said, this is a great example of how I start many of my fashion design projects; I stumble on inspiration, I bring it together with a mood board, then I bring it to life.  I encourage you to act on what inspires you…you never know where it can take you.  Show us what inspires you and how you bring it to life (it does not have to be fashion related).

Below are several ways to stay cool and look good during music festival season,  have fun with it!

Hair:  Now is your chance to parade around with your hair tussled with diamonds and daisy’s.  Pull your hair back with some fancy hair bands or hair pieces.

Undergarments:  instead of wearing your regular wonder bra, check out some printed swimsuit top, one pieces or bandeau’s.  They look so cute with a baggier tank, or even paired with a high wasted skirt.

Hats:  I still love an over-sized floppy brimmed hat, but this year try reaching for a cool Aztec print  or colored baseball cap to keep you in the shade.

Dresses:  Easy, breezy comfy dresses are what you bring to these camps.  Something lightweight, with a ditsy floral print is your secret weapon in the heat.

Sunglasses:  Head to forever21 or Urban outfitters and pick up a few patterned, printed crazy sunglasses.   This will keep you looking stylish and not have you worrying about losing them or getting them trampled on.

Tees:  Loose sleeveless Tee’s are perfect with everything ,  and will keep you comfy and cool.

KALE CHIPS!

Do not let the word Kale fool you.  These are just what you need for that savory crunchy craving you get when you know you can’t feed it with the usual junk.  Kale is full of vitamins and minerals; beta carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, antioxidants and is reasonably rich in calcium…A few more reasons why this recipe is the bomb!

Here’s how to make them:

Step #1

Have all your materials on hand to make it easier.  I find I don’t miss a step when it’s all right in front of me!

What you’ll need (get ready for this, it’s a LONG list):

• Kale
• Seasoning (Garlic, Powder, Chilli Flakes)
• Olive Oil
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Baking Sheet (Non-stick or lined with parchment paper)

I also suggest a sous chef to assist with this complex recipe…we chose “Gnomey”.  He is the cutest Gnome cookie jar we purchased in Venice Beach that day and he was more than helpful…haha!

Step #2

Cut the green leafy parts off the stems and tear into smaller pieces.  We don’t use the stems because they have a fibrous content, and take a lot longer to cook and don’t get crispy and crunchy like chips.  In addition, the real nutrients lay in the leafy parts!

Step #3

Set the over to 350 degees F.  While waiting for the oven to heat, season your Kale!

Place the Kale pieces on the baking sheet and drizzle 1-2tbsp of olive oil over the kale and toss around with your fingers.  This is the fun part; for this batch we added Garlic powder and Chilli flakes for some heat, just sprinkle over all the chips and toss with your fingers again.

You can pretty much use any spice you want: curry, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cumin, herbs de Provence, paprika or my personal favorite…nutritional yeast (it is a favorite with the Vegans and adds an almost “cheesy” like flavor while adding vitamins like B-complex and is a complete protein – it can be found at most health food stores in the bulk section).

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 17-25 minutes (depending on the size of your pieces) until you see the edges getting brownish and start to get crispy.

Step #4

Serve and enjoy!!!! I promise you these will become your “go-to” snack.  They are cheap, easy to make, healthy and DELICIOUS!  I am personally addicted, and staying on track with my healthy eating plan and not feeling the guilt of giving into cravings.  If that is not the best of both worlds I don’t know what is.

Step #5

Make another batch.

beta carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin, and reasonably rich in calcium.