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Fashion June 30, 2017

What are you wearing this Canada Day?

Tomorrow’s the big bash — Canada is turning 150 years old and the entire nation is getting ready to party until the wee hours of the morn’.

Unless you are preparing for a family camping trip or a girls weekend out, planning Canada Day events can turn into a last-minute affair. The event is considered a holiday, but in typical Canadian fashion, most people are too modest to make a big to-do out of it.

The unfortunate part is that by now, most of the “Canada 150 gear” is sold out or overly priced. That doesn’t mean you can’t get decked out in traditional Canadian fashion this July 1, it just may take a little bit of creativity. Women’s Post is here to help! Here are some ideas for a kick-ass Canada Day outfit:

Colours: Really, if you own anything red, you are fine. Pair a red t-shirt with a pair of white shorts and it will look like you planned for this holiday months ago! Add a red bandana or hat, or even some luscious red lipstick for extra effect. White shirts work as well, but try to find some sort of red accessory to balance it out. Why not try to get some face paint at the dollar store so you can pain on our favourite maple emblem on your cheek?

Plaid: It’s supposed to be rainy and cloudy all weekend (sigh) so why not just wear the traditional Canadian plaid shirt? It has the added benefit of being warm, but also contains our nation’s colours

Dollar store: Time to be a bit creative. Even the dollar store may be out of their traditional t-shirts and temporary tattoos, but they almost always have beaded necklaces, boas, tutus, and other weird things you can slap together to make an outfit. The key is to go overboard. If you are going with the mashed up outfit full of different textures and goofy headbands, then you might as well go all out!

Non-traditional: If you are like me and red just doesn’t match your skin tone, try a different approach. Canada Day is a great opportunity to celebrate Canadian things — sports teams, bands, and even our individual cities (‘Toronto vs. everybody’). Wear that Justin Trudeau unicorn shirt you bought on e-bay that one time! That blue jays cap is good for more than just keeping the sun out of your eyes at the game. Maybe you have a “drizzy drake” tee you can grab?

Just remember to stay away from indigenous or cultural garb that isn’t your own please! Those are the only things out of bounds this Canada Day.

Want to make a statement? Buy a cheap white t-shirt and write something on the back with a marker or with paint. With all those cameras, this is the perfect time to express concern over an issue that is important to you. Whether it’s the environment, election reform, or disdain for a particular bill being discussed in the house right now — use this opportunity to get your point across. Just avoid offensive language, as no camera will focus on your shirt if it contains profanity.

And of course, you can always use this statement to share messages of love!! Not everything has to be about activism.

What will you be wearing this Canada Day? Let us know in the comments below!

Fashion December 19, 2016

5 outfits for that holiday party

Even though winter fashion is all about cozy sweaters and warm blankets, sometimes, it needs a little bit of glam. You don’t want to be that person at the holiday party with the ugly sweater and converse shoes while everyone else is dressed to the nines.

Here are five outfits that are sure to impress your guests:

The little black dress: This is a classic, elegant, and flirtatious outfit that is perfect for any holiday affair. It’s sleek and form fitting, yet their is a hint of embellishment — just enough to make people look twice. Pair it with black or silver jewelry for a classier look, or with coloured, chunky accessories. Just make sure that if you choose the colour route, all the accessories match (even the shoes if you don’t go with a black pump).

The “casual” sweater: The grey knit sweater can be worn with jeans to a casual holiday get together or with a skirt and heels to an office party. The best part about this outfit is the comfort. Want to add a touch of elegance? Try a messy up-do with some large silver ear rings and a bold lipstick. Who says comfort can’t also be stylish?

The sparkling jumper: This year has been all about the jumper, and Women’s Post loves that! This outfit is comfortable and forgiving if you are eating a meal. They are also deceivingly comfortable. If your jumper is full of sequins and sparkly details, don’t bother with any jewelry. Let your outfit make the statement. Make sure to plan accordingly if you opt for the short-jumper — hypothermia is not sexy, even at Christmas.

The funky silver top: Not feeling like a dress or a skirt? Try pairing a funky silver top with black pants and some sparkly flats. It’s festive and wintery — yet stylish. It says “I just threw on this casual outfit, but it looks amazing and I’m ready for anything.” This is a great outfit for a night out with friends or an office party.

The classy red dress: Nothing says the holidays like a red fitted dress. This is another classic look that just exudes confidence. You can wear this dress with some red or black pumps and some black or silver jewelry. This look is very professional and great for a night out at the ballet or at a nice restaurant.

What will you be wearing this holiday season? Let us know in the comments below!

Living December 18, 2016

How to deal with the last-minute holiday shopping dash

If you, like me, left all your Christmas shopping to the last possible minute, never fear! It’s not too late! In fact, you still have a week! That’s plenty of time — but it’s also going to make gift giving a bit more challenging. The stores will be packed, kids are starting to get off school, and most of the sales that existed are now gone. While saying that, it’s not impossible! And, Women’s Post is here to help!

Here are some tips to help you out during your last-minute shopping dash:

Try to avoid malls: I know this one may be hard, but if you can visit a boutique shop or an outlet store, do it! Trust me. The malls will be incredibly busy and crowded. You will have to navigate through a sea of people just to get into the store. And then, it may take you 30 minutes to get to the cash once you finally choose a gift! Maybe try to hit some local fairs that are open and find some great hand-crafted items.

Have a list and check it twice: Don’t just wander. There’s no time for that. You’ll get overwhelmed by the people and the products thrown about. Eventually, you’ll leave empty handed because it’s just all too much. Have a plan and carry it out.

Be prepared to compromise: What you want to get your mother may not be available anymore. It also may be a lot more expensive now that the pre-Christmas sales are done. The list is important, but be ready to pick up something else if you can’t find the item you are looking for. Then take your previous idea and save it for a birthday.

Try online shopping: Amazon Prime appears to have a two-day delivery system if you sign up for their free 30-day trial, which is absolutely amazing! Just make sure to get it in the next few days. If you can’t get that type of quick service —and who knows how late the delivery is offered — don’t worry about it. Just print a picture of what you ordered and place it in a nice envelope or a box with a bow!

Donate to a charity: This can be done without even leaving your computer. Most charities make it really simple to donate, and will even provide you with a lovely email or photo that you can include in a card. Try to choose an organization that resonates with the person you are donating on behalf of. Just make sure you do some research to ensure the charity you choose is ethical and actually uses the donation to make a difference. Why not check out Charity Intelligence to make sure your donation goes far.

Ultimately, make sure to get an extra-large coffee and enjoy the experience. Take a few girlfriends and make a day of it. The physical shopping will be a pain in the ass, but with friends, at least that line won’t seem so excruciating! Good luck!

Entertainment December 12, 2016

Top holiday movies this Christmas season

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! At least, that’s what I said back in October when holiday movies started pouring out on every single television channel. These much-loved movies are a sure sign that Christmas is on its way. While some may find this irritating, for many families, these movies are an important tradition. When you have young kids, it is exciting to choose which of these movies to watch while enjoying a warm cup of hot cocoa and a few Christmas cookies. If you are looking to indulge in a holiday movie binge, here are the best flicks to watch on a frosty winter day.

Classics

My all-time favourite Christmas movie is ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’. It is an absolute classic (filmed in 1946) and encapsulates all the important themes of family, giving, and the importance of community. It has a darker twist to it as well, which I appreciate because it isn’t cheesy like so many Christmas movies. “The Holiday Inn” is another well-loved movie from 1942 and is a great choice for Christmas music lovers. It is replete with dancing and singing, and of course has a classic romantic tale of love and betrayal to boot. ‘The Christmas Carol’ (1951 version) is a blast from the past and is one of the greatest versions of the classic tale by Charles Dickens. Alastair Sim’s laugh at the end of the film will make you smile for at least the next 24 hours.

3e75e6abc1ee3dbe8b3b4e34091b4233 — From the Grinch who stole Christmas.

For the kids

There are so many amazing kids’ Christmas films to binge on and of course, it all begins with “The Grinch who Stole Christmas” (the original of course made in 1966). From the music score to the animation, this movie is one of the best holiday films ever made. The Grinch is such an ugly creature, but the cuteness of Cindy Lou Who overrides the Christmas grouch with a heart three sizes too small. “Polar Express” is a newer classic, but seeing Tom Hanks in animation is well worth it. It is a very creative film, with original music and a holiday message to never stop believing! And of course, there is “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, a mix between a classic and a must-have kid’s film. There is something instantly soothing about the voice of Rudolph and the sound his red nose makes when it lights up.

A little more bad-ass

If you want to watch a more rebellious Christmas film with friends or your hubby, then “Die Hard” is the way to go. It is a classic action flick conveniently set at Christmas and provides a hilarious twist to the typical holiday themes of sharing and caring. It is a must-watch, kudos to the 80’s for cheesy movies. “Edward Scissorhands” is also a contender for a more avant-garde holiday movie because it is set in the winter season. One of my favourite movie scenes of all time is when Winona Rider spins in circles as Edward Scissorhands (Johnny Depp) uses his hands to make a beautiful creation.

The-Holiday-Kate-Winslet-Jack-Black — From The Holiday.

Can’t forget the chick flicks!

Finally, the romantic comedies cannot be forgotten! “The Holiday” is a great Christmas film that defines love across borders and it is easy on the mind with a great cast. “Four Christmases” is another fun, newer movie for women everywhere. Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughan play a hilarious couple that are forced to go to their families’ Christmas get togethers. Finally, the best chick-flick for the holidays is definitely “Love Actually”. It is one of my all-time favourite Christmas comedies and it will have you laughing, crying, and contemplating life all in a couple of hours.

Whether it be a classic film, a funny chick-flick, a cute kid’s movie or an action movie, enjoy your Christmas holidays by being lazy and watching fun movies (it will be well-worth it). I for one cannot wait to relax, enjoy the holidays and spend time with my family and the movie channel.

What is your favourite holiday movie? Let Women’s Post know in the comments below!

Home & Garden December 3, 2016

DIY gift ideas for the not-naturally crafty

If you are looking to add a personal touch to your Christmas gifts this year, you can join many other Do-It-Yourself (DIY) enthusiasts in creating amazing homemade presents that will wow your family and friends. On the other hand if you are like me and lack artistic sensibilities, don’t expect the hand-painted tea cup craft idea you found on Pinterest to look identical to the one you create (I ended up with a pink blob on a cup).

Instead, if you are not naturally crafty, but (for some reason) want to make your gifts this year then you have come to the right place. Here is the how-to on how-to make homemade gifts that won’t come out looking like you crafted with your eyes closed in the middle of a park on a windy night:

When planning your homemade gift ideas, remember to keep it realistic. Don’t plan to make 20 homemade coffee cup holders unless you have a sewing machine and ample experience. Not that I would try to lead anyone astray from learning a new hobby, but trying out a sewing machine for the first time during the holidays can be a stressful way to learn.

Let’s look at a few easier gift ideas to begin with. Why not try homemade camera straps or chalkboard painted coffee cups. To make the camera strap, you paint and decorate cotton webbing with acrylic paint and use glue to attach two hooks on either end. Make sure the hooks are flexible (or swivel) for easy use. The supplies to make the strap are easy to find and the decorative process is fool-proof; however, if you aren’t a painting-type of person, you can always use wool or other materials to create a braid.

Chalkboard paint is a fun way to decorate a low-priced coffee cups, trays, or even computer cases. Decorate the object and write loving messages on it for your friend or family member.

It is also important to keep your budget in mind. When I design my DIY present plan, I write down everyone that will receiving a gift and then begin jotting down ideas for each person. By making a gift that I can give to many people, it cuts down on costs and time, and my gifts will still well-received by my loved ones. I then budget out how much the materials will cost before purchasing the craft supplies for the gifts. Going out to buy materials without a plan often leads to overspending and planning often helps to avoid superfluous costs. Remember, if it costs more to make your gift then it would to purchase it, you may want to reconsider your DIY plan.

Food gifts are often a good way to save money on DIY presents because you can make multiple batches and save money by buying ingredients in bulk. Purchasing a few flats of jars and make a variety of jams and preservatives. Making holiday cookies and other treats for friends and family is also a good option. Lastly, soup in a jar with all of the dry ingredients layered looks lovely in a glass jar and makes a yummy soup once you add water and boil. Don’t forget to decorate the jars with ribbon for a festive feel.

There are so many benefits to DIY gifts. First of all, they are made with love, something that can’t be said of that Old Navy sweater you may have wanted to pick up. You also get to avoid the consumerist train spectacle in malls across Canada. Just make sure that the gifts you make are useful and catered to the people you are giving them to, and you are sure to get a good reception!

What are your favourite DIY gifts to make for Christmas? Let Women’s Post know in the comments below.

Travel January 25, 2016

Villa Arches in Sint. Maarten

St. Martin or Sint. Maarten is the smallest island in the world to have two different countries each governing one half. The north side of the island is French, while the south side is Dutch. Our villa, Villa Arches, is on the Dutch side, just south of the French border in Dawn Beach.

The villa is perched on the east side of a mountain and has a wonderful view of dawn beach and the morning sunrise. With warm red italian tiles and wide doors open to let in the cool breezes from the ocean, it is a terrific spot to watch the large boats come in to anchor in the protected cove far below, and also take in some sun and a swim in a good-sized pool.

The villa is well stocked with pots and pans, a coffee maker, and utensils and, unlike a lot of islands, the wifi and electricity was reliable and never went out during our stay.

We had dinner at “Big Fish” a fantastic seafood restaurant in Oyster Pond right beside Dawn Beach. The restaurant is owned by Teresa and Mike Wilson, a terrific couple from Toronto – who started the Fox and Fiddle chain of restaurants. Their sushi chef was terrific, but so too was the snapper, shrimp dinner and passionfruit sorbet. It’s a must visit when in St. Martin.

We drove around the island and stopped at a couple of beaches – Friars Bay, Le Gallion – which were too crowded for our liking. We read about Happy Bay beach, which is a short hike north of Friars bay, and were delighted to find it after a wonderful walk along the coast.

We had lunch in Grand Case and ate at a beach bar with an amazing chef. The beach is narrow with restaurants built right up against it. The only drawback was that it lacked beach chairs, so it is not a great place to take elderly visitors – although the kids enjoyed it.

The butterfly farm is a great place to visit on a sunny day and the market in Marigot (French side) and Phillipsburg (Dutch)- filled with colourful wraps, bags and jewelry were filled with activity.

Villa Arches is conveniently located so that excursions around the island didn’t take more than 30 minutes and it was nice leave the bustle of Marigot and come home to a quiet villa with the sound of waves breaking on the shore far below.

The only negative draw back is for those who must get sun – the villa is tucked onto the east side of the mountain so by 4 p.m. the sun is blocked by the mountain, making late afternoon sun tanning impossible. But, we found that by that time in the day we’d had enough sun that it was rarely missed and the warm breezes with a cocktail sitting out on the deck more than made up for the lack of sun.

Wherever we go, I find it is the people who make or break a vacation. We rented a car from Dollar-Thrifty SXM and unfortunately had a tire blow out on the road. They were terrific people and delivered a new car to our villa. While we waited on the side of the road for our taxi to arrive – numerous locals stopped to make sure we were okay and offer help. The locals are terrific.

The only negative attitudes we experienced during our trip came from the people representing the Westin Resort at Dawn Beach. We were flagged down by two of their sales people – they were friendly but wanted us to scratch some tickets to win a prize once we had taken a 90 minute tour of the Westin Dawn Beach and learned about their fractional ownership units. The sales people warned us that other staff might try to take their commission so we should hold on to our scratch tickets and we could win a stay at the resort, an Ipad, or a$1000. We received two sets of cards – two weren’t winners and two were. But the prize was a stay for four at the Westin Dawn beach that could not be used in the week that they are issued. They were also non-transferrable.

The Westin Resort at Dawn Beach is just down the hill from Villa Arches and I wanted to check out their beach to see if my mother could swim there. I also wanted to check out their service, thinking that if they had to sell fractional ownership it might be abysmal. Customer service is so easy, but can be completely messed up if the staff don’t feel encouraged or supported. We poked around and found the restaurant and beach practically empty. I decided to talk to a supervisor about getting a day pass to review the resort. When I spoke to him to see if we might purchase a day pass in order to review the resort, he claimed they were completely sold out. I told him the place was practically empty, but all he did was shrug. So we decided to ignore him and use the beach facilities anyway.

The beach chairs were mostly empty and the waves were pretty rough, but we had a nice swim and left without anyone the wiser. What irked me most was that the supervisor refused us access to review the resort while, at the same time, they are paying people to go out and lure possible customers into the resort. Terrible management and customer service. If a resort like the Westin at Dawn Beach has to sell fractional ownership then they obviously aren’t providing the highest possible service at the best possible price.

Instead of luring people to the resort with “scratch tickets,” simply try welcoming everyone who walks through the door, offering them a free drink at the beach bar, and enticing them to come back everyday and spend money at the restaurants, on beach chairs, and towels — giving them great service the entire time. It’s much more likely their next stay will be with you. Instead the Westin Dawn Beach gave the impression they were trying to be an “elite” club while behind the doors the room was empty.

I highly recommend spending $3500 and renting Villa Arches for a week – where the customer service from the owner far exceeded anything the Westin Dawn Beach can offer!

Living December 21, 2015

How to rock this year’s holiday fashion

It’s the week before Christmas, and that means last-minute parties and get-togethers with friends. But, what should you wear? It’s the typical dilemma: We don’t want to dress to casual, but we don’t want to overdress either. Yes, the ugly sweater may be all the rage, but for those of us who don’t want to look like a knitted nightmare, here are some festive options for your next work party or holiday smash:

The glittery shoe: It doesn’t matter if you wear a simple black dress or a pair of jeans — the shoes make the outfit. Dazzle your friends with a pair of silver or gold-studded heels and watch as all the attention is drawn towards you. The best part about the particular shoes pictured below is that they have mesh, which will give your feet a bit of extra support. The glittery shoe does not have to be ten-inch stilettos. As long as they sparkle, you are golden (pun intended).

The classic red dress: You can’t go wrong with the red dress — it’s sexy, flattering, and eye-catching. Most people would go the ‘little black dress’ route, but not you! You are daring, confident, and sexy. And you want the world to know you are here.

BTKA_14495192548311_1442e6beb5b369232d3522b0f24b69 — Rosie the Rebel, $95

The sleeveless party top: Sometimes, a dress is just too much. If you are heading to a semi-casual party with some friends, this top is the perfect festive attire. Pair with a pair of black dress pants or with a ripped pair of jeans. It’s perfect under a nice jacket or blazer as well.

The handbag: A purse is just too much during the holidays — people bump into it on the bus, crowded streets are a nightmare, and you have to weave in and out of stores holding it close to your chest so you don’t accidentally break a priceless item. We are all better off with a small handbag, especially in the evening. This bag is typically only big enough for the essentials: cell phone, money, ID, and emergency lipstick.

Knitwear: If you must wear something knitted, make it something unique and stylish. A knitted shirt or dress can be paired with funky tights for colder weather, or with boots as seen below. It’s a great casual outfit that just screams “I just threw something on, but look how fabulous I look.” Much better than the ugly sweater!

What’s your favourite holiday outfit? Let us know in the comments below!

Living December 18, 2015

Awesome Toronto holiday markets the weekend before Christmas

It may not snow this Christmas, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get in the holiday spirit! This is the last weekend before the holidays — a daunting fact for those of us who have not finished their Christmas shopping. It also means it is the last weekend to enjoy the wonderful holiday markets available throughout the city of Toronto! Here are five of the most popular winter markets open this weekend. Enjoy!

Toronto Christmas Market

The Historic Distillery District- 35 Lower Jarvis St.

The Toronto Christmas Market is a long standing annual tradition in Toronto and features a variety of holiday events for people young and old. The market is free from Tuesday to Friday and costs $5 on weekends — the money goes to the food bank. Festive holiday music is sung daily by carollers and multicultural and several activities including carnival rides, photos with Santa, and walking tours through the Distillery district. Vendors will be selling Christmas ornaments and other festive items, including some unique foods. We highly suggest the hot chocolate from Maisonnette, or as they call it, “the drink of the Gods.” Don’t forget to stop at the beer garden when you tired of shopping, or try some mulled wine near the bonfire.

Crown Flora Holiday Market

1233 Queen St. W

The Crown Flora Holiday Market is an annual event in Parkdale, and will be hosted this year on Dec.19 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Local artisans in the neighbourhood will gather together and offer Torontonians a variety of gifts for the holidays. There will be over 60 different vendors selling hand-made goods like paper cards, ornaments, and delicious treats. The event promotes neighbourhood solidarity and opposition to rising rental prices in the area — in addition to celebrating the holidays of course. Gift ideas include wooden ornaments and bowls for plants as well as salted caramels. The best part, free admission!

Union Station Holiday Market

65 Front St. W.,

The Union Station Holiday Market is a pop-up that appears at this busy commuter station from Nov. 30 to Dec. 20. This market is great for people who have limited time to shop. On weekdays, it is open 7 a.m. until 7 p.m and is open on the weekends from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. There are a collection of vendors at this market including OCAD students selling art pieces. Bath products, holiday socks, retro sweaters, and jewelry are good options in addition to several other items.

Trinity Bellwoods Flea

824 Dundas St. W.

The Trinity Bellwoods Flea is a market that runs this weekend only, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. A collection of 75 vendors and artisans (over two days) will come together to provide one-of-a-kind gift options. Admission is free and gift wrapping is also free if customers spend over $50. Scented candles, scarves and handmade jewelry are among some of the fantastic items you can pick up from the Trinity Bellwoods Flea.

Evergreen Brickworks

550 Bayview Ave.

Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village has a plethora of events to celebrate the holidays that advocates in the spirit of sustainable Christmas shopping. This market is open until Dec. 23 and is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Local vendors, craft events, and a village skating event with a holiday D.J. are all included in the weekend festivities. Families can take part in nature walks (toured or self-guided) or watch a holiday-themed play. You can even learn how to make holiday preserves! The Winter Village goes above and beyond for the holidays and is worth a visit.

Do you have a favourite Christmas market that we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Featured November 26, 2013

Ste. Anne’s Spa is the perfect escape to relaxation

What is the cure to our modern, hectic world?

This autumn, take a trip to Grafton and check out Ste. Anne’s Spa, Canada’s favourite spa. A quick jaunt from Toronto, you can treat yourself to mud wraps, massages and facials, among other relaxing options.

The estate features both a eucalyptus steam room and a fieldstone grotto, where you can hang out in the hot tub before cooling off in the plunge pool.

For the ladies, the change room offers a unique surprise: colour therapy hot tubs. Yes, you can soak your weary bones in a fuchsia sea.

The special treat for the season? Mocha fusion. Using coffee as a natural exfoliant, this spa treatment will replenish your skin from toes to scalp and clear your mind. The ultimate full-body experience.

Ste. Anne’s also offers wellness classes, giving guests the chance to participate in yoga, stretch or meditation classes. Under the tutelage of Jenn Hall, guests are taught the various poses involved in several branches of yoga. These classes are also occasionally offered as a special retreat, the best way to get the full Ste. Anne’s wellness experience.

If you want more than just a spa visit, there are numerous options. Guests can visit the Spa Bakery and catch one of the culinary demonstrations. Watch as Pastry Chef Khushroo guides you through the process of creating amazing desserts.

Or take a lovely guided walk (or snowshoe!) through the Northumberland Hills. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as you visit nearby forests, creeks and even the local farm.

You can even arrange for an equine experience. Ste. Anne’s maintains stables and lets guests interact with the horses in various ways. Groups are kept small, to ensure guests feel comfortable and willing to ask questions.

Guests can choose several options: from watching the stablehands perform daily horse care, either morning muck or evening turn in; to grooming time, which gives visitors the chance to groom a horse; to the learn to ride program, a new program which offers visitors the chance to learn the eight horsemanship levels, from grooming and harnessing through to full diagonals.

“The learn to ride program has just kicked off and two guests that have signed up for the five day program both made it through to the trotting stage,” the stable caretaker, Kareylee White, says.

And if you have a fear of horses? “All of our horses are very friendly, almost too friendly sometimes,” White assures me.

Whether you want to run away for a day or a weekend, Ste. Anne’s Spa is the perfect escape from busy city life.

holiday

Want to experience the Ste. Anne’s experience for yourself? Head over to our St. Anne’s Spa contest page to win a day spa for two!

Want to experience the Ste. Anne’s experience for yourself?
Head over to our St. Anne’s Spa contest page to win a day spa for two!