Share Your World – Week 22

Regarding animals would you prefer not having them around or having domestics pets, farm animals, or seeing them in nature or the zoo?
Since I was a kid, I have always wanted a pet. We did have a tank full of fish for a while, but they were pretty much there for decoration. I wanted a furry little companion to call my own – a cat, a dog, a rabbit… but my family’s house just isn’t a suitable home for critters. One day, when I get my own apartment, I will adopt a tabby kitten named Duchess. I’d also love to go on an African Safari to see the wild animals roam around in their natural habitats.

Are you a collector of anything?
I collect everything that I deem to have value and special meaning – memorabilia, souvenirs, stuffed animals, CDs and DVDs, make-up, etc. It’s gotten to the point where I hardly have any room in my room! So now, at least twice a year, I do a clean-out to clear up space by tossing the things I really should not hold on to anymore. Do I really need those old, worn out movie ticket snubs from decades ago? No, no I don’t. And I donate all of the stuff that other people could use, like clothes and books. However, I will always keep all of the trinkets, autographs, greeting cards, postcards, and letters that I receive from people.

If you could know the answer to any question, besides “What is the meaning of life?”, what would it be?
I’d want to know what really happened behind the mysterious deaths of Classic Hollywood actors and actresses – especially that of Marilyn Monroe and Natalie Wood – and put all of the conspiracy theories to rest once and for all.

If you were to treat yourself to the “finer things” what would you treat yourself to?
Handbags, handbags, handbags! I would treat myself to a collection of pretty purses from Kate Spade to Chanel to Hermes! I’d probably be too scared to wear any of the high-end labels out, but perhaps I could start my own museum of bags?

via Share Your World on Cee’s Photography.

Photo by Milton H. Greene.

Share Your World – Week 21

If you could make a 15 second speech to the entire world, what would you say?
Worry less. Whatever it is that’s troubling you, you can overcome it. Smile more. Let the world see the beauty of your light and in turn, feel joy. Embrace change. There are opportunities just waiting for you to embrace them. Listen and love. The best way to show people you care is by hearing what they have to say. Be passionately curious. Engage with what fascinates you and see your life take a turn for the better! (I totally stole the bolded phrases from the shirt I’m currently wearing.)

If you could take a photograph, paint a picture or write a story of any place in the world, what and where would it be?
I would love to compose a photo essay of London, England. That city is filled with an abundance of old history as well as new stories of love and discovery from the diverse make-up of people who currently reside there.

If you had to spend one weekend alone in a single store but could remove nothing, which store would you pick?
I would spend a weekend in my favourite American department store, Bloomingdale’s, and pass the time trying on all of the upscale clothing, shoes, and accessories (and the handbags! Oh, the handbags!) and eating the expensive chocolates for survival.

If you were given a boat or yacht today, what would you name it?  (You an always sell the yacht later)
Mango Coconut. It reminds me of my Mom (her two favourite fruits).

via Share Your World on Cee’s Photography.

Image credit: Andrea Pucci

Share Your World – Week 20

If you could go back and visit any time period, what time would you travel to and why?
I would like to travel back to 1955-1965. I love the retro aesthetic/style and pop culture (especially the music and movies) of the time. I’d especially want to be there to see the explosion of Elvis Presley’s career and the arrival of Beatlesmania.

If you could have three wishes granted for you alone, what would they be? This is a time for you to dream and have fun.
1) For my Mom to be restored back to her full health.
2) To win the lottery so I can pay off all of the bills and loans, donate to charities and help people in need, and travel the world.
3) The ability to fly.

Wanting something to quench your thirst, what would you drink?
When I want to quench my thirst, fruit juices and smoothies always do the trick. My preferred flavour  is Strawberry Banana.

If you watch TV what are your favorite three television shows?
American Dreams: My favourite show of all-time. I related to Meg Pryor so deeply with her idealistic outlook and love for music. It’s a great show about family, friendship, hope, and dreams.
American Idol: I could write a book on how this show has ruined changed my life. I have discovered so many favourite artists and found so many fantastic friends because of Idol. That’s why I just can’t quit, no matter how many times they jump the shark.
Parks & Recreation: I got into this show a bit later (marathoned Seasons 1-5 last summer) but I instantly fell in love with the endearing characters, quirky humour, sweet storylines, and optimistic tone. Amy Poehler as Leslie Knope is deserving of all of the comedy awards.

http://ceenphotography.com/2014/05/19/share-your-world-2014-week-20/

Pick Me Up: Thank You

What is the one word or phrase that immediately cheers you up when you hear it?

Thank you.

It’s amazing how these two words of gratitude can instantly uplift your mood. In a time where we tend to get through our days just trudging along without feeling all that remarkable to the world outside, it’s nice to know when a person actually notices you and believes in you. For someone to acknowledge something you’ve done and appreciate you for making life a little better is one of the most rewarding feelings.

I try my best not to take good people’s good deeds for granted and to recognize acts of kindness by giving a sincere ‘thank you’ (and looking them directly in the eyes when saying it means a great deal as well).

We all need a little encouragement to know that we’re doing okay after all.

Thank you.

Image by Cutiepie Company.

A Tale Of Two Cities: NYC and LA

East Coast (Brooklyn, 2007) to West Coast (Santa Monica, 2013)
East Coast (Brooklyn, 2007) to West Coast (Santa Monica, 2013)

If you could split your time evenly between two places, and two places only, which would these be?

New York City, New York and Los Angeles, California

I am a city girl. Always have been, always will be. I was born and raised in the ‘burbs of Vancouver but constantly longed for a permanent residence in the middle of the metropolis. While I love Vancouver for its Canadian pride, earthy atmosphere, majestic natural beauty, and yes, even sometimes its rain, I sometimes feel stifled by what I believe to be its yet unfulfilled potential to be as great as it could be. People have called Vancouver the “No Fun City” for this reason.

I have only ventured to New York City and Los Angeles once each – NYC during Spring Break 2007 with my Grade 12 art class and LA last Summer 2013 by myself, both times before or after my respective graduations from school, actually – but I never felt as at home as I did during my weeks in those two cities. There are countless things to do, sights to see, and people to meet in this pair of vibrant and diverse places. You could browse through the art museums in Manhattan or go stargazing in Hollywood, and that’s just on the first day!

I was fortunate to visit New York and California during the winter and summer seasons, but I would love to experience life in both coastal cities all year ’round. Springtime in Central Park and Christmas in Southern California? Sign me up! A balance between the hustle and bustle of the City That Never Sleeps and the laid-back, take it easy vibe of the beaches of the City of Angels would combine the two lifestyles I seek. And sure, navigating these mega cities may be daunting, but I think there’s something so exciting and inspiring about being one of the millions of hopefuls who go to NYC and LA to make their dreams come true, and I wish to be part of that group.