Atypical 60

The Jeans For Every Body. And a Bit of Help!

Posted on February 5, 2017 by Catherine

Jeans. I’ve written about them in past posts. (click on the “Jeans”) Jeans. They have been the bane of my existence when certain styles or cuts have been popular—the “bootcut” has and will never be my friend. My hips are too large and I love my hips. The wide leg just doesn’t work for me either—it makes me look squat. The straight leg—ehhhh, it’s ok.

No. I do not have bootcut jeans. However, I have this pair of old bootcut athletic pants which I only wear in the house. They are high-waisted and really make me look a good 15 pounds heavier than I really am. The cut is not flattering at all. And why call it bootcut when most of us wear our jeans stuffed INTO our boots?

My favorite jean is the “skinny”. There is a reason for this. I have a curvy shape. And even with a great of baby-birthin’ set of hips, the skinny jean lends itself well to my body type.

Wait! I actually think the skinny jean lends itself well to most every body because this type of jean fits. It follows curves without being too tight. The right length can be flattering with heels to elongate your body and a shorter length is great for casual days.

One of my favorite jeans look for a polished appearance. AG’s “The Legging Ankle” super skinny ankle jean. The length does come right at mid-ankle for me. I’m not tall and I’m not super short. Just a hair under 5’6″. It’s a great length!

Let’s face it. Jeans have evolved over the years. With lighter weight denim and more “give” and stretch, they aren’t uncomfortable anymore. Nor are they as stiff! And with the skinny jean, there are different varieties.

A recent jeans brand discovery for me is AG jeans. I don’t know what it is, but boy, these jeans are the best fitting jeans that I’ve had in a long, long time. Since my first purchase, I’ve gone on to add three more pair to my collection.

Ahh. I remember it well! My first AG Jean purchase at Nordstrom Rack. Adriano Goldscmied thank you!

Each has a different personality, but each pair fits so well to the point that AG made a jean that is flattering on a very imperfect body. Granted. These are not inexpensive but can be found at great sale prices both at Nordstrom and Nortstrom Rack! Come and I’ll show you.

My first pair of AG jeans on the left. The Legging Ankle (super skinny ankle) made of: 98 % cotton, 2% polyeurethane. To the right is the The Legging Ankle (super skinny ankle) in a slightly different fabric blend: 58% viscose, 21% cotton, 20% polyester, 1% elastane. This is a darker wash and more of a “dressier” jean. I will say that the ankle length on these are a longer version. I could be because this is a size 29. I could have gone down a size though.

Next up. The Farrah Skinny Crop, High Rise Skinny Crop. The size is 28R and really doesn’t fit my legs as a crop–and I’m fine with that. This is a great high waisted jean and is composed of 58% Visose, 21% cotton, 20% polyester and 1% polyurethane. To the right is The Prima Crop, Mid-Rise Cigarette Crop. The blend is the same as the Farrah Skinny Crop. Now. Although this isn’t a “skinny” I do like the relaxed fit. This is a size 29 and as I’m becoming more familiar with the AG Brand, I’m finding that the smaller size works better for me.

Lets take a look at the high-waisted Farrah jean. (And no way is this cropped on me!) My hips still stick out. They aren’t sucked in. The high waist lends itself well to shorter-length shirts (i.e. the Tippi Sweater that shrunk!!)…

..in addition, I still have a bit of a belly, as pointed. Yet, this jean doesn’t come off as “mom” jeans. The fit is excellent through the trunk of the body (I also cuffed them, making them a bit more “cropped”–kind of)…

The brand’s jeans also fit nicely around the ass. No honey, these jeans do NOT make your ass look fat!

I love the way these jeans look! Farrah is definitely a win in the AG jeans brand!

Below are some looks I pulled together. I didn’t use me as a model today because my hair is in rollers and I’m having a makeup free day!

A dressy look for the office or date night. You know I would wear this with one of my blazers!

A bit of a more casual change up–but still with the heels!

This Tippi is really a bright Neon yellow that matches the neon yellow in the shoes. Friggin’ lighting! My favorite ripped jeans with heels and pearls. I love the contrast. There’s something about that high-low contrast that I just dig so much!

Here’s the Prima cigarette crop. I call this my St. Tropez look! I love this jean with the Breton striped shirt and Rondini sandals or Repettos. This look is coming to France with me in June!

See how the cut of the leg is a bit more relaxed? I love how both sandals look. Note to self: Time to Fake Tan!! Maybe a spray is in order!

Change up to some colorful flats!!!

The high-waisted Farrah. Shown with the Tippi Turtleneck that shrunk and is now somewhat “cropped” and the regular Tippi that shrunk in the wash. These jeans saved my sweaters from being trashed! I can roll them up and wear ballet flats, or keep ’em unrolled and wear heels. I’m not one to overdo animal prints so a leopard belt is a nice touch. And all jeans looks are mature-aged lady appropriate!

It’s important for me to write about this—especially since the fashion industry continues to ignore the older woman. Older women can and should wear jeans like this and wear them well. Do not allow people to make you believe that a certain article of clothing is inappropriate for your age. It isn’t!!!

Here’s what I wore Friday to the office. My ripped jeans and…

…a blue and white oxford shirt under a J. Crew Tippi sweater that didn’t shrink when I washed it!! I went 50 shades of blue with the lighter blue Via Spiga flats! A bit of bling with the necklace! Age appropriate for almost 62-years old me. And you!!

Guilty as charged for pushing the seasons. I wore this springtime trench coat because of the blue. Somehow, on a winter day, this worked!

We deserve to be fashionable and we deserve the freedom to wear what we want. There should be no ageism in jeans! And while I realize I’m no “expert” in the fashion industry, I’m savvy enough to know after all these years what works and what doesn’t.

I’m not doing a weight post this weekend. My anxiety level is over-the-top. It has been since Inauguration day. That’s all I’m going to say—not because I don’t want to be political. It’s because I get too upset and I’m trying to be calm.

Not jeans but J. Crew factory Gigi pants. I loved the bright colors in this outfit. And since I’m not doing a weekend weight post, I’ll post this photo of some happy colors going on!

Anyway, I’ve been stress eating. And this coming Thursday evening, I will be going back to Weight Watchers as a member. I’m a lifetime member so I don’t think I’ll have any fees to pay because I’m within my first WW goal weight. Even if I do have to pay, I don’t care. I need the extra help right now and sometimes we have to admit to ourselves that we could use a bit of help!

I’m also losing more hair these days and am depending more and more on my toppers for now. I’m becoming more creative in styling them. Here’s a look at yesterday’s hair!

Uniwigs Yaki Textured Topper. The coarse texture blends in perfectly with my bio hair. Hey. Nothin’ wrong with a little hair assistance!

That’s it for today! Whether we need a little help with our weight or use a bit of helper hair. It’s all good. Help is a good thing—and we have to be honest with ourselves and know when to ask for it. Am I right??

I’m going to help convince Bonaparte that I need a bit of Botox!! (Just kiddin’!)

The Fab Four—because “Help” is a great thing! And thanks to Reelin’ in the Years for this great clilp!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Fashion, Style | 27 Comments

Attention to Details, Ladies! Attention to the Deets!

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Catherine

Today is February 1^st! In 13 days, it’ll be the one day of the year when everyone shows their love. I show my love 365 days a year so Valentine’s Day is no big deal for me!

Pshhawww! EVERY day is Valentine’s Day for me! I’m a loving person (As long as I’m not reading about #notmypresident!)

But today was the day that, upon waking up, I was able to say “Spring is next month”!!!

Yes. Spring arrives next month. With my weight loss plateau, I shall be going to Weight Watcher meetings starting next week. I’ll also be purchasing more fake tan. Watch. I’m getting all Spring-y and it’ll snow big time!

Happiness!

This is also Black History Month. It’s a time to discover African Americans who added to our culture. Have you ever heard of the sculptor Mary Edmonia Lewis? She was one cool lady! Read about her here: Edmonia Lewis Bio.

Mary Edmonia Lewis. She was so pretty (No apologies for talking about her beauty before talent. She WAS beautiful!) and was a talented sculputor to boot! Camille Claudel had some serious competition with Edmonia Lewis in the game!

I’m incredibly fond of Amédé Ardoin a talented African-American Cajun musician. I first heard of him over thirty years ago, and his life story and music hold a special place in my heart. Read about Amédé here: Ardoin Bio.

The talented and handsome Ardoin met a sad ending… I think it’s important that we learn about African Americans who contributed to our culture –especially those from our past!

But today is also the day that I realized how important little details are. It happened while I was getting dressed.

Wednesday Hump Day. And I was getting a bit lazy about what to wear. I’ve been tremendously busy at work and have been leaving earlier to get to the office. And I rush to get dressed sometimes. And that isn’t a good thing.

Anyway, I decided to go basic today with a plain black Tippi Sweater and plaid pants. Fine. I wore my hair back in a messy bun because I haven’t had much time to fuss about the locks that I still have and I didn’t have time to fuss with my fake hair either.

I’m pretty basic today. More about the shoes later in the post!

I was mulling over “Do I wear a scarf, or necklace—blah, blah, blah”. I had all my makeup on with the exception of lip color. Perhaps I was too lazy to open the bag I just changed to dig in for one of the many glosses or sticks I have—right???

Then I got a glimpse of myself in the mirror. I looked a bit on the washed-out side. I looked dull. I looked “meh”.

My face is on but no lip color. I look a bit ill. The black crew neckline against my skin doesn’t do much either. I don’t look bad but I don’t look great!

So I took a few moments and did something about it. With the addition of lip color and inexpensive fake pearls, I changed up my look. And the change up was 100% better!

Only difference in the face is the lip color–and it isn’t dark either–just a soft pink gloss. A fake freshwater pearl necklace gives me some life and the pearl earrings wake me up. I’m a huge fan of white against the neckline. For some reason it is very flattering on everyoe!

I looked down at the flats I was wearing. As much as I love J. Crew clothing (especially this season’s offerings), the brand’s shoes leave something to be desired. I have the Gemma flats. They are not wearing as well as I would expect. So, I took them off and put on a pair of heels that looked much better.

The Gemma flats have lost shape. A shoe better left for lousy weather days because they can’t be ruined any more than they are!

I changed to a better quality heel. The shape is much better and look at the beautiful toe cleavage!

The pants look so much better with the heels!

Three little things to give me a more polished, professional and lively appearance!

Sometimes we just don’t pay attention to detail when it comes to the way we look. I’m horrible when it comes to polishing shoes. It drives Bonaparte crazy. This is something that drove my father absolutely nuts. He had a thing about immaculately polished shoes. And on evenings when he was off from his job as a NYC Police officer, he would have us line our shoes up for school and he would polish the shoes. (My mother was more concerned with our home being immaculate!)

Little details.

I changed up my bag from yesterday! And I have just as much “STUFF”! I love the red bag and the red watch band. Details that really work!

It’s funny because I am not big on accessories. I have scarfs but they are worn mostly in the winter to keep me toasty and to hide my turkey neck.

I have many earrings but wear few. It’s usually either hoops or pearl studs.

One accessory I’m starting to get into is the watch. I’m really into timepieces these days. I like the way they feel on my wrist. Better than a bracelet.

My new Stuhrling Watch. It was around $50.00 on Overstock. I love the packaging!

This Daniel Wellington watch was one of the Christmas gifts I received from the kids. I’m loving the matching rose gold cuff too!

I like the way they look.

Left to right. My most sentimental gift from Bonaparte. It was the first gift he gave me. A Bulova gold and silver watch. With diamonds. I’ve been wearing this for many years! Middle, is an inexpensive watch from Nordstrom Rack and Right a wrap strap watch from Michael Kors. I’m really getting into watches. Nice arm candy if you ask me!

And the nails—it does make a difference when my nails are well-manicured. My hands look nicer and when the nails are longer the fingers look slimmer. Actually, when Kim, my favorite nail technician comes back from Vietnam, I need to make a visit to her. I miss her!! I need to get the nails cut a bit.

The nails are also part of the attention to detail. My favorite color is OPI Dutch Tulips! It’s the best red!

How about you? Are you big on detail? Do you pay more attention when you catch a glimpse of yourself and go “Ewwww”—like I do. Or are you pretty much on your detail game? It’ll be fun to find out!

See–even my Bitmoji looks better with lip color!!!!! Details!

Today, I’m giving you a little cultural gift of Amédé Ardoin’s music. I swear, listening to his “Eunice Two Step” makes me want to go to New Orleans, go to Tip’s and dance to some great Zydeco all night!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Fashion, Humor | 12 Comments

I’m Not Carrying the Weight of The World On My Shoulders. It’s in My Bag!

Posted on January 30, 2017 by Catherine

My weight is down a pound. Which I’m thrilled about because since Christmas and New Year’s I’ve been very lazy.

I’m happy about this, but I can assure you, at the end of this week, it’ll be up by a pound. I’ve been stressed!

And my shoulder has been hurting. The past few weeks I feel as though I am carrying the weight of the world around. However, I seriously thought there may be something wrong with me and in my hypochondriasis way, I went on WebMD. And naturally, I thought the worst. Until Bonaparte caught me.

I was beside myself and asked him to pick up my bag. It was on the floor next to where I was sitting. OK. Picture this. I’m crying because, once again, I’m thinking the worst about my health. I’m telling Bonaparte through sobs that I’m sick and need to go to the ER before my heart or my brain explode. I need my bag because my insurance card is in my bag and I need my group number to see what I’m covered for in the case of a heart attack or stroke.

Then he picked up my bag. For some reason, he had an adverse reaction. Bonaparte told me the reason my shoulder is so sore is because of the weight of my bag. Then he asked me just exactly what was in my bag that would make it extremely heavy.

“Cassee”. “Pliz.” “ Zahr eez nuh-zhin whong wiz ou” “Zuh problem eez zuh beg” “Ou muz clin et ouhhhtt!”

Let me tell you something.

I have my stuff in my bag. I have a lot of stuff in my bag. I need to carry this stuff around with me because I feel like I’m missing something if I don’t have my stuff. My stuff is important to me.

A sampling of what’s in my bag!

But, being the kind and compliant woman I am, I humored Bonaparte and promised him I would clean out the stuff that was in my bag.

Come along with me while I clean out the contents of my tan Longchamp Cuir LePliage.

This is my bag. And I’ve been lazy about changing up bags so I’ve been using this quite often. It doesn’t look like there’s much in here. That’s because the huge J. Crew bag takes up so much space. I had this empty bag in my bag thinking that a certain someone would not know that I went shopping a few weeks back. He found out.

I have a listing of eye doctors in the surrounding area. I ended up going to a doctor who isn’t on this list. So I filed this away.

I have a little Vera Bradley pouch that is chock-full of lip color. Thing is, I don’t change my lip color during the day. I don’t know why these are in my bag. I also have my business cards from ~~doing time in retail hell~~ when I worked at Nordstrom. For sentimental reasons, I can’t bring myself to throw these cards in the trash.

Oh look! Remember that no-name wallet I wrote about last summer? (Post: I‘ve Done Some Shopping) It’s still going strong! I have so much garbage in it that it stands up by itself. This inexpensive wallet is great–and I always receive many compliments on it!

The start of a grocery list and a reminder to bring in a donation to one of my co-worker’s dog rescue group!

A boarding pass, moist towelette and those things to put over your eyes when you sleep. From our trip to Paris last November. I found these at the bottom of my bag.

More lip gloss. This is a Dior lippie that I forgot I had. I guess it wasn’t that great to begin with. I’ll just put it back in the bag.

The CD is in my car. I’m not really sure how the cover ended up in my bag. Isn’t it a fun CD cover? This is my new favorite CD. I love Lisa Leblanc!

It is a mystery how this fragonard bag WITH samples ended up in this bag. I was at Fragonard in the beginning of the summer and I purchased the bag at summer’s end. Maybe it got there magically!

Yet MORE lipcolor! And in a Kendra Scott earring pouch! WTF?? I really need to do a post dedicated to lip gloss and sticks!

Hmmm. I can NEVER find tissues when I need them. And I looked for them in my bag but couldn’t find them. Bags are black holes for stuff! Now I can blow my nose!

It gets better. THIS is my bag-within-a-bag. A removable organizer that I can move from one bag to another. The pathetic thing is that I have the same organizer in two other bags–so I don’t HAVE to remove the removable organizer! Let’s take a look–shall we?

A petit notepad from the Hotel Prince de Conti in…guess where?

My Lifetime Member stuff from Weight Watchers. I was looking for this–who knew I would find it in my bag’s organizer? I may go back to the meetings..

My tracker. Notice how great I am at tracking the wrong things to eat!

I don’t know how old this tea is but I wonder if tea has an expiration date. I’ll keep it. Just in case!

Fake sugar, hair stuff, and tabs. Somehow this DOES make sense–I just need to remember how!

Another note pad, dental floss, a Weight Watchers calculator and deodorant. These are all necessities!

A pen that I discovered in a zippered compartment of my organizer. That little organizer holds a ton of stuff!

Oh dear God. This is getting crazy. MORE lip gloss and lip balm. Am I now a lip product hoarder?

I had been searching for this and thought I lost it! I LOVE the scent of this Nirvana White. It’s a bit on the sweet side with some serious musk. I’m so happy I found you–even if I don’t wear you. I just like to smell you!

OK. So out of all that STUFF in my bag. This is what I got rid of. The remnants of a Nordstrom Note, an old TD Bank ATM receipt. A Target receipt and some note paper. I kept the doctor listing but it’s in a file. Everything else went back in the bag! It does appear to be a lot lighter!

My little Monoprix sac. I have one in almost every bag. These fold up and carry a ton of stuff. I like having a couple of bags–just in case–again!

I don’t think my shoulder will hurt anymore because of the paper I trashed! What’s in YOUR bag!!!

I would say Monsieur Bonaparte is correct in this instance. But the awful thing is,I could not part with the stuff in my bag. I got rid of the J. Crew bag and some papers, but everything else went right back in!

On another note, I got my laptop back. There was something wrong with it. Apparently, the technician who was supposed to install programs, etc. forgot a few things. My touchpad still sucks because it can’t be disabled on this particular laptop. But—the mouse is now working beautifully.

Here’s a few items I wore at the end of last week and into this weekend.

I wore this today. I wasn’t crazy about the look because I wore navy tights–I like a bare leg sometimes with skirts if I’m wearing boots–but I did not have time to fake tan. I DO love my plaid jacket from J. Crew!

We drove into New York City yesterday to have lunch with the boys and Jake’s girlfriend, Juliana. I went high-low. Ripped jeans and an Hermes scarf! And my other lady jacket from J. Crew!

I went to the Eye Doctor on Saturday and wore this. I was thrilled that Ray Ban now makes round frames. I got practically the same frames–and when my new glasses are ready-I’m handing these over to get stronger lenses put in. A girl needs a backup!

I wore this on Friday. Jeans Friday. New AG Jeans with tan suede heels. This was, hands down, my favorite look from last week. And those AG jeans are a great weight-loss article of clothing because of the stretch factor. In all honesty, I could have gone down a size.

I may have posted this in my contour post–but what the hey! It was a comfy outfit. J. Crew Pixie pants–the most comfortable pants in the universe!

Are any of you on Facebook? If so, have you been affected by political postings? I’ve unfriended quite a few people. And not because their politics are different than mine are. It’s because of some of the vile name calling I’ve had to deal with because of my politics.

It’s a pity because I respect the opinions of those whom I know. If I disagree with their views, I’ll post why, but I won’t lower myself to name calling. I won’t do that to people I know.

And this song by my favorite Beatle-George Harrison has been getting a ton of love from me lately. Isn’t It A Pity? It really is—but this is a beautiful song…

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Fashion, Humor, weight, What's in my Bag | 39 Comments

I’m a ConTOUR Artist–Not a Con Artist!

Posted on January 26, 2017 by Catherine

Before I continue, I want you to know that the laptop is going back tomorrow. I will be looking for a different model. Unlike this HP Pavillion which has the crappiest touchpad that cannot seem to be disabled. And then the mouse works every now and then. I’m lucky tonight!

Moving on…

Remember my post from last week about older women and makeup? I wanted to elaborate on on..

Contouring.

I know, I know. Contouring is so intimidating—or at least that’s what you might think. It really isn’t anything to be put off or intimidated by. It’s all how you play the game. Or apply the product.

Through trial and error, I’ve discovered what works best for me and what doesn’t.

It’s all about the shadows and light. And sculpting the face.

My face is square. And angular and now that I’m older and gravity has fallen, I need some help to put the bone structure back in order.

The first contour I ever used was the Marc Jacobs Mirage Filter in Number 40. It’s the lighter of the contour powders his brand offers.

My very first contour kit. Marc Jacobs! I’m getting sentimental. This works much better in summer for me but my winter face is just too dry. It goes on so lightly and really–if you are thinking about contour. This really is a good beginner choice.

This is an EXCELLENT contour for beginners. The highlighter gives a nice glow without being overly bright. The contour brushes on so incredibly lightly that you honestly cannot tell you have used any product until you take a step back and see the shadow. I use this in the summer because with the humidity my skin isn’t as dry. During the winter months. I turn to a creamy formula.

Needless to say, I did purchase a contour palette by NYX and ended up using the powders as eye shadows. The contours are not “cool” enough for my skin tone. These would work much better on warmer skin tones.

These powders photograph a lot cooler than IRL. They are a bit more warm. I do love using these as eye shadows though. Very neutral. I love a product than can multitask–this is it!

The cream formulas definitely work best for me. And I think they are a better choice for mature skin because the blendability is great and the creamy formula just works on drier skin.

The NYX Wonder Stick was the first cream contour/highlighter that I used. And I continue to use it. But, the color I use, Light, always seems to be out of stock. The taupe contour is so incredibly user friendly to pale skin tones. I find the other offerings, Universal, Medium and Deep are to orangey for me.

NYX has a wide selection to choose from in the Wonder Stick collection. Just my luck, the “light” which works so well for me, is always out of stock!

I don’t know if you can tell from this photo, but the Wonder Stick in Light is on the right. On the left is “Universal”. It was slightly orange-brown. The taupe color seems to work so much better.

When I was unable to find the Wonder Stick in Light I purchased The NYX Mineral Stick foundation in Light and the Maybelline FIT ME Shine Free Balance Foundation Stick in Number 355—a dark color that I thought would work well. Using both as a highlighter/contour, they’re ok. Nothing spectacular. The FIT ME stick is very dark on me and would work well in the summer, but for the most part, they sit unused.

NYX Mineral Stick…

FitMe foundation by Maybelline. This is wayyyyy to yellow/orange/brown for my skin tone. I’ve used it but am never fully happy with the results. The texture is very creamy and not drying at all–but the color is just a no-go for my tone.

Then I tried the Maybelline Master Contour by FaceStudio. I purchased Number 10. Although this has quite a bit of love in reviews, for me, it’s “meh”. The concept of the two-tone stick is great—but the execution leaves much to be desired. When I apply the highlighter side, I get a bit of contour and when I apply the contour side I get a bit of highlighter. It’s too clumsy for me.

Top left is the two-toned Maybelline Master Contour. Unfortunately I’m no master of using this stick. In theory–it’s great. Realistically, it was a miss for me.

Two weeks ago, I was perusing the cosmetics area in Target. I came upon a crème contour palette by e.l.f. At $6.00 I couldn’t pass it by. Surprisingly, I am a huge fan. There are three darker contours and one lighter cream for highlighting.

This is a great palette. Creamy. Six Bucks. And the colors are all cool ones. I need to hurry back and pick up another one of these!

The smaller spoon brush blends the contour perfectly!

These colors glide on so smoothly and you honestly cannot tell that product is on.

Take a look:

Mostly makeup free. Geez–my skin looks like shit. True that stress has an effect on the skin. I’ve been so upset about the election results that my skin is in bad shape. I need to relax….

All it takes is a little swipe and a blend, blend, blend…

Done with the contour. You can’t see it but…

When the rest of the face is done, there’s some enhancement working!

As difficult as it is to find the NYX Wonder Stick in Light, at around $12. It is worth tracking down. It is that good—but the e.l.f. is such a delightful surprise that I’ll be heading to Target to buy a backup and one for travel.

I also noticed that Lancôme has come out with a version of a contour stick. At $36, I don’t think I would bother when I can get a great product for a lesser price point. If you have used this, let me know what you think.

Lancome’s version. At the price of $36.00, I cannot imagine it being better than the twelve-buck NYX stick!

You know, contouring is something I would have never thought about until I got older. And it’s fun to try new products out. It’s fun to experiment. I never thought I would chisel my face with a cream and a brush. But hey—you can teach an old dog new tricks! Woof!

Oh. I decided to add this tidbit for today. I normally use Bare Minerals “Well Rested” to cover the blue undertones by an around my eyes, but because my skin has been under so much stress, I revisited my Mally’s Perfect Prep. It’s a creamy yellow souffle of corrector!

You don’t need much product to get a good result with this. It took me a while to find the right amount…

Some blue discoloration..

Applied, patted and blended like crazy…

Definitely works..and with the full “face” on..

…and with my full “face” on, you can’t tell I had any discoloration at all!

That’s another thing–as we age, we need a bit more than the usual blush, foundation and eye makeup. We need to hide, highlight and sculpt!

PET PEEVE TIME! Do you have any pet peeve’s about your cosmetics–like the packaging? I do. Look at the photo below. It is the Vitality Flush Color Stain Stick by iT cosmetics. You can tell that I use it–a lot! But it angers me that there is so much product at the bottom of the tube where you can not longer twist product up! I have to dig with a brush to get the remainder out. That is just bad and greedy packaging. I’m sure there are more women who toss this when the product can no longer be twisted. Not me! I’m cheap! And I want every pennie’s worth of this stick. Thoughts?

A ton of product is at the bottom of the barrel here…

And I’m scrapin’ it out!

Enjoy your evening ladies! I’m going to slather my face in cream and oil now!

I’m loving my new CD by Lisa Leblanc! Here’s some music to pump you up–and make you ponder moving across the northern border to Canada! “J’pas un Cowboy”-it’ll get you up and dancing!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Aging, Beauty | 11 Comments

Atypical 60 Looks At The Inauguration Fashions!

Posted on January 23, 2017 by Catherine

We all know what last Friday was. It was the day #nevermypresident was sworn in as the 45^th President of The United States.

Orange you glad you didn’t watch his inauguration? I know I am!

It was a sad day for many of us—especially those who voted for the woman who won the popular vote. Hillary Clinton. But—alas, America really isn’t a democracy when it comes to a Presidential election because of the electoral college. And this election was even less democratic because it was compromised by our President’s “friend” *wink*, *wink*, *nudge*—Vladimir Putin. (And just where was Vlad during the inauguration? My guess is that he had some “girls” sent over from Russia and they all waited in a hotel suite for Mr. President!)

Two big dick-taters sharing everything they possibly can. Maybe that should be “small” instead. Hurry up Mr. Orange. You need to get dressed for your inauguration!

Despite the sadness and the gloom over the inauguration, there is always a bright side. Um—no. I’m not talking a bright side to the next four years. I’m talking the bright side of the Inaugural Fashions.

And though I didn’t watch the ceremonies of the day or evening, like, Mrs. Kravitz, the nosey neighbor in the TV show “Bewitched”, I just had to snoop the internet to find out what this alternative truthful family, along with their friends, wore.

I’m just as appalled at some of the fashion choices as Mrs. Kravitz is (BTW, I like her, the ORIGINAL Mrs. Kravitz better!

Come along with me while I offer my honest opinions on some interesting ensembles and clothing choices. And I will not give you any “alternative facts”. I speak the truth! Let’s have a look-see!

And just like Mrs. Kravitz, I’m at my little window spying on the First Family. Oops! Can I say “spying”? I don’t want the CIA mens after me!

Mr. Not-My-President looks like he is about to shart. His pants are too short ~~Melanoma, Malaria, Mesopotamia, Medusa, Morocco,Malta, Mississippi,~~ Melania Trump in her favorite color. NUDE! It’s so befitting of her! The dress fits horribly across her well-endowed and very expensive bust. With all her husband’s money she couldn’t buy a decent bra? They are kind of saggy and need a bit of uplift. Our First Porno Posing Lady needs to go to Princesse tam tam to get a proper bra. This dress also makes her look washed out. Proof that money can’t buy good taste!

Jesus, Mary and Joseph! While the First Couple of Grifters were enjoying their pre-inauguration dinner, Ivana was leaving New York City for D.C. She did attend the inauguration but I could not find any pictures of her ATTENDING this inauguration. What the hell is she wearing? Did she dye one of the wild animals her moron sons hunted? And that purse–I thought it was some sort of exotic blue melon with a handle! The shoes–OMG–they need to be polished and the hemline on those pants…have you ever heard of a tailor? The demim jacket under the blazer? Oh please. But always looking for a ray of sunshine, I love the updo and the lipstick!

The most unchristian Roman Catholic on earth! My good buddy Pope Francis doesn’t even like this guy. I think VP Pence is giving a “Heil Hitler” salute to Trump! Back to fashion–Mrs. Sickpence has a very ill-fitting gown. She is not wearing it. It is wearing her. Way too much fabric. Her titties are down to her waist. What’s with the saggy look? And the spaghetti straps with the droopy off-the-shoulder hanging fabric? And I thought the fashions at the Golden Globes were bad. You are the wife of the Vice President. Dress the part. Don’t dress like you are the mother-of-the bride at a trailer park. And put some blush and lipstick on for cryin’ out loud. Looking on the bright side. The color looks good on her. And that ain’t sayin’ much!

Oh look! It’s the big “Alternative Factor” herself. She looks stunningly beautiful!! Hahaha–I alternative facted! The dress doesn’t fit around the middle. And no amount of makeup would make that hag look anywhere near attractive. Her hair is dull and lifeless. She should wear a wig. Fake hair would really help her fake personality. I know–I wear fake hair all the time. Jeez–she really looks like a witch when she smiles. Satan in a gown. (Shhh. I’m actually like George Washington. I cannot tell a lie. I DO like the dress. But she’s such an ugly soul that I don’t like the dress on her. I should own that dress instead!)

One of the inauguration festivities. I love Tiffany Trump. She has that oh-so-slightly-slutty look. She’s my fave! The short in front-long in back look is so 2015! But I know why she’s smiling from ear-to-ear. She can drink till kingdom come and she’ll always be protected. We should have all been that lucky when we were her age! Ivanka. Why is she wearing emerald green? She’s not Irish. That look on her face says “Upper-East-Side-Paxil”. I know this. My friends and I were “Upper-West-Side-Zoloft” Mommy needs her meds. Is that little girl Ivanka’s daughter–or is it Wednesday Adams? We are ALL in mourning–but you couldn’t dress this child in a cheery ensemble? And the hair–maybe mommy Ivanka needs to start paying more attention to her little girl. Just sayin’

Ivanka and her brother Beavis –or is it Butthead–look like two zombies. Are you THAT upset that the Secret Service is now going to be up your ass 24/7. He may like that. This outfit of Ivanka’s. It says so much more than “fashion”. The asymmetrical lines remind of..they look so…the outfit looks like..

…it looks like an upside down KKK hood. Well, her daddy IS pretty friendly with some of these guys!

Here we have Barron Trump, my favorite girl Tiffany and Ivanka. Happy little siblings. Just like Bob Ross’s happy little trees! Barron has a nice head of hair and he doesn’t look too happy. I know why. Look at his shirt. The collar is way too big. And the tie. For God’s sake. Take this boy to Brooks Brothers and get him a proper fit. He’s the First Son! He has the makings of a prepster teen icon and he’s dressed like he has his first hangover! My adorable Tiffany DOES look slightly hungover. It’s ok Tiffany, I won’t let on that you were out in Georgetown tramping it up the night before. You’re a party girl. I like that! Ivanka changed the part in her hair. It looks much better but girl, get rid of that KKK suit!

I’m having “issues” with Ivanka as a mother. Look how she dressed her daughter for Inauguration Day Church. I realize they are Jewish but go out to Long Island. If you think for one second that any of MY Jewish girlfriends or my sister would allow their daughters in a synagogue on the High Holy Days in that outfit, you would be kicked out! Put a comb through your daughter’s hair! Or if you can’t be bothered, get her hair cut in a China Chop Bob! She would look precious with a cut like that, and a part on the side with a huge bow. Absolutely adorable. Do I see the hem of her dress hanging from under the coat? Ivanka. You have a clothing line. How can you allow your daughter to be dressed so sloppy? White coat, white tights? No, she should have either opague knee socks or ankle socks and patent Mary Jane shoes. Ivanka. Burgundy is becoming on you. But please, don’t wear a bathrobe to a church. You may have been in a hurry but you could have worn a dress. And the bag. Black would have been better. Are the shoes from your Ivanka Trump line? I dig the toe-cleavage!

Hill and Bill! Remember Hillary, YOU won the popular vote. But think how lucky you are now. Nobody can blame you for “alternative truths”!!! How come the republicans said you “lied” but they insist that Trump told “alternative truths”. BTW, your white outfit is more empowering. You look more like a doctor than a KKK supporter. That Ivanka–huh?

Oh shit! I almost had a heart attack at this scary sight! It’s Sataness again! She’s laughing with glee at all the “alternative facts” she will be spewing for the next four years. Jesus. Help me.

Kellyann Conway doesn’t even know what country she lives in. This is NOT Bastille Day you idiot! You are NOT one of Napolean Bonaparte’s Army. It’s bad enough you insult the people of America–now you’re insulting the French!

Yes. You CAN plagiarize an outfit–just like I stole this meme! Ralph Lauren hasn’t an original bone in his fingers. His big original Inauguration ensemble for ~~Monaco, Metz, Michigan~~ Melania was a direct rip-off of the Oleg Cassini that my beautiful Jackie Kennedy wore. Mrs. Trump steals speeches and now clothing. Her hair looks fabulous though. And the light blue looks nice on her too. But her color still remains “nude”!

Michelle Obama always looks great. But this outfit isn’t cutting it with me. I’ve seen my Michelle in better. I don’t like the length of the coat. It would have been much better in a shorter length and there’s too much fabric. A tailored coat would have been perfect. I feel your sadness Michelle–I love the boots. And the hair. I love you!

Hold your horses! The Sloveian doesn’t have to place her hand over her heart to recite the Pledge?? That is so unAmerican. Oh wait. She IS unAmerican! Will her husband send her back in the box she was mailed to him in? You are First Lady now Melania. Respect the Pledge!

Ugh. Trump is so vile looking. Even his trophy wife can’t make him look better. But look! To the left! Tiffany’s booties! OMG. They look like they came from Forever 21! They are absolutely horrific with that coat. This makes me admire Tiffany even more…

I’m thinking she changed into the booties because these slutty shoes were too slippery on the church floor! She probably had the booties left over from all the Georgetown partying the night before. The coat is reminding me of one of those blankets with the satin trim at the top. Right? Tiffany–you might look a bit unkempt but trust me. You will end up the most popular member of this family. You need to write a book with your mom Marla. We’ll all buy it!

I’ll bet he needed lessons on how to behave in Church since I’m sure its been decades that he’s been in one. What’s with all the belted coats? Does no woman wear a classic tailored coat anymore? I think Melania will be praying that she can soon take all her clothes off and run naked through the white house. She’ll be more comfy!

Oh. Another Upper-East -Side Paxil mommy! Hey. If I had to wake up next to him in the mornings, I would be medicated too! The neckline of this gown is beautiful. As you move downward the dress turns from cute and hip to Mother-of-the-Bride. Not a youthful look. What’s with the Trump brother’s and the oil slick hair? What–are they Miami Vice fans?

Oh..I see now. They hunt animals and use the animal fat as hair dressing. NOTE to Trump brothers. I hope you get hunted down like this poor innocent animal did.

I’m thinking I need to be friends with Marla. I wish I could have seen the rest of her dress because if it is anything like what we are seeing–then Marla Maples gets the award for best dressed woman during the inauguration! The hair. The necklace. The neckline. I think Marla and Tiffany are the best mother/daughter team ever. Besides me and Oona! I love Tiffany’s lashes and that lady behind her seems to be having the time of her life!

Look at #nevermypresident’s hair. It’s so–umpresidential! Whats with the little crimson ribbon across ~~Mitsubishi’s, Minnesota’s~~ Melania’s waist. And those swoshes? Is she a walking add for Nike? I’m laughing out loud because of all those fake Christian fundie’s who cast stone’s at Michelle Obama’s sleeveless frocks and sweaters. What do they think of that slit? I guess it makes it easier for Mr. #notmypresident to grab her p……

Stop the presses. Look who showed up at the Inaugural Ball! Kaitlin Jenner. Now she’s a woman with REAL balls! She is also a disgrace to the LGBT community to show up where equality will be a thing of the past. BTW, s/he looks awful. This type of dress doesn’t look flattering on a body with such broad shoulders. And the fillers–way too much and the makeup is horrible. On the bright side. That shade of blue is very flattering to Kaitlin. The purse is ridiculous. It doesn’t even match the shoes. Pewter shoes and a pewter bag would have added so much to this outfit!

Thank you Hollywood Life for this fabulous photo of the great Tiffany Trump! The gown looks so–Upholstery!! I want to cover a chair with this fabric. Tiffany–you’re so much fun. Keep smiling and keep having fun!!!

The First Family of Alternative Truths! Only in America. Ivanka’s gown. I think she’s going to recycle it for an evening Bar or Bat Mitzvah for her children. Or she’ll recycle it for the wedding of one of her children. I don’t understand why a young woman, who is very pretty would wear a matronly gown like that. Ivanka should be wearing what her stepmommy is wearing.

And my sincere thanks to my favorite designer Mr. Karl. Thank you for not dressing anyone for the inauguration. You’re my friend again!

I love you Mr. Karl! Even though I can’t afford your designs!

This is the second time I’m posting this song because it is how I feel every time I think of our #notmypresident and the congress. George Harrison with the prolific “Beware of Darkness”

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged #Humor, Fashion, Inauguration Fashions, Presidential Inauguration | 46 Comments

And A-Weigh We Go. Off To Run Some Saturday Errands

Posted on January 22, 2017 by Catherine

This weekend brought forth a lot of action. On Friday we had the inauguration, which I refused to watch—but don’t think I didn’t scope out the fashions—and that’ll be another post.

Friday’s inauguration crowd on the left. Obama’s inauguration crowd on the right! Guess who’s more popular?

Yesterday also brought us a great thing. The Women’s March. While I did not go—mostly because one of my sons works for the news and the last thing he, or anyone else would need to see would be footage of me being arrested and screaming obscenities. I’m not as composed as the women who marched!

However, many of many of my girlfriends did march—among them Jeanette, Lee, Debbie E., Tracy C., my favorite niece Beth! And a shout out to one of my besties Robin! I am indebted that you marched for me and all of our sisters! I am thankful and appreciative.

And while I wish I marched, I don’t feel guilty that I didn’t. I did my duty as an American and VOTED!! I voted for the woman who received the popular vote by a couple of million. ARE we REALLY a democracy?

And now, let’s get down to other business. Like the long a-weighted week.

I need to revisit my food plan. It isn’t that I’m getting sloppy or anything, but this plateau moves up and down in the ounces’ department. This week, I’m down four ounces. It’s fine but some strategies need to be taken.

And I am happy to say, I FINALLY got a pedicure! Don’t my toes look cute again?

I need to cut out bread. Again. It was bad enough that Friday was filled with anxiety and sadness for me as that man who is not MY president was inaugurated. And worse, when I arrived home from work I came home to a chewed up, gnawed, quarter of a loaf of home baked bread.

This is what I came home to on Friday. I do not think that Chippy was trying to offer me assistance in my diet by helping me cut carbs. He just enjoyed eating 3/4 of a loaf!

I shan’t repeat what I ~~screamed, shouted, yelled~~ said.

And do you think he cares? No. He disrespectfully ignores me!

Anyway, yesterday morning, Saturday, I woke up with plenty of ambition. The only way to jump-start the body to lose a bit of weight is to be active. No. I most certainly did NOT work out. I ran errands.

Our first errand had us ~~running~~ driving to a local frame shop. When we were in Paris in November, we picked up a painting that had been in Daniele’s apartment. We should have taken it home a couple of years ago, but were pretty lazy about it. And when we finally did pick it up, Bonaparte had to gingerly take the canvas off the backing. An operation he performed with the skill of a surgeon.

We must’ve looked at a good 50 frame tips. We agreed on a more distressed look. My eyes may be crossed, but when it comes to decor, those crossed eyes come through!

The painting is a portrait of Vincent’s (Oona suggested I start calling Bonaparte by his given name—so I’m experimenting) sister, Isabelle. The portrait was painted by their father, Dany, in 1956. Dany is a well-known artist along the Cote d’Azur and his work is wonderful! We picked out a frame that would work well with the beauty of the portrait. We bring Isabelle home from the framer’s in a couple of weeks!

Isabelle is wrapped for now. And she has been stretched upon a new wooden backing. I freaking LOVE this portrait so much. Everything about it is just so beautiful in a subdued way..

..and Vincent is thrilled that his sister will be with us!

Then we had to take a trip to the bank because I had some “issues” with the password on my debit card. Thankfully the issue took all of two minutes to correct.

Onward and upward to Errand Number Three: A trip to The Container Store! Felix Unger—aka, Bonaparte—aka, Vincent, is very much disturbed by my lack of organizational skills. He insisted that I start to organize in baby steps; starting with my shoes.

This was a good start. We also picked up a rack for my boots. I need a lot more of these!

We He decided on an over-the-door shoe thingy and a thingy for four pair of boots. Artillery in hand to help me become neater, less sloppy, organized, we went on to …

I was happy AF to find these suede heels by Marc Fisher. They were exactly what I was looking for! They match my Longchamp bag, they have the perfect pointy toe, and there’s a bit of toe cleavage! Perfect for jeans and skirts and dresses. I’m lusting…

…Errand Number Four. Shoes. One of my co-workers gifted me with a card from DSW (an astute young man, I must say). I’ve been on the prowl for a pair of brownish-tannish-nude-suede heels. I found them and found them on sale. Mission accomplished.

Errand Number Five: Stopping at Ethan Allen to see if the cushions on our overpriced sofa could be replaced.

I am so glad that I kept this photo on my phone. I was able to show the manager how sloppy the sofa looks. Sadly, this has been discontinued, but he is looking into how we can have the cushions replaced by the company. The customer service is excellent. I want a fat sofa!

Errand Number Six. Stopping at the grocery store for more flour. I needed to bake more bread!

Once back home it was just a matter of time management.

I prepared the dough for the bread. Here’s the recipe from the Chicago Tribune. I did a couple of things differently, but the recipe is fantastic. It’s easy and doesn’t take forever!

Pullman bread

Prep: 25 minutes; Rise: 1 hour, 30 minutes; Bake: 40 minutes

Makes: 1 loaf, about 20 slices depending on how thinly you are able to cut them

When baked in a Pullman pan, this recipe makes a loaf with a large, square slice. The recipe originally appeared in “Baker’s Bread” by Paul Richards (The Baker’s Helper Co., Chicago, 1906) and was adapted by PJ Hamel, baker/blogger and Web producer at King Arthur Flour. You will need a Pullman loaf pan with a sliding cover. Two sizes are available. This recipe is for a small pan, 9 inches long by 4 inches wide and 4 inches high.

1 3/4 teaspoons (5.5 grams) yeast

1 1/2 cups (362 grams) warm water

2 tablespoons (25 grams) sugar

4 cups (548 grams) bread flour (I used all-purpose flour instead and the recipe was fine)

2 1/2 tablespoons (33 grams) lard (I used softened butter and it was fine)

1 to 1 1/4 teaspoons salt

Sprinkle the yeast in a medium bowl; pour 1/4 cup warm water over the yeast. Add 1 tablespoon sugar. Allow the yeast to bloom in the water until the water begins to foam, 5-7 minutes.
Place the flour, remaining 1 tablespoon sugar, remaining 1 1/4 cups water, lard and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook. Add the yeast mixture. Mix on low until a dough forms. Turn speed to medium; mix, 8-10 minutes. (My dough was a bit dry so I added a few drops of water)

Yeast blooming, dry ingredients at the ready. All very easy. REMEMBER! When you use yeast always check the date. Don’t use expired yeast–it’s too risky in the fact the yeast may not rise!

3. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in bulk, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

When well-kneaded (I used my Kitchen Aid) the dough should look like this. You want it more on the moist side than dry. I needed to add a few more drops of water than called for.

4. Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Punch down the dough; knead on a lightly floured work surface, 30 seconds. Shape the dough into a log. Place dough in a lightly greased Pullman loaf pan; cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise until the dough has almost reached the top edge of the pan, about 30 minutes. (Watch closely so that the dough does not overproof.) Carefully remove the plastic; slide the metal cover closed.

The dough after the second short rise. My kitchen is cold so I turned the oven onto 200 before rising then shut it off so it would be nice and warm for the dough to rise. During the second rise, since the oven was preheating, I placed the dough on the stove. The heat from the oven flowed to the stove top!

5. Bake, about 40 minutes. Remove the lid in the last 5 minutes of baking. The bread is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 190 degrees. Turn the loaf out onto a rack to cool completely before slicing.

And while that bread was rising, I worked on organizing my shoes!

I could not stop thinking about that commercial “A Place For Mom” as I organized my shoes. “A Place For Mom’s Shoes” is more like it!

Due to the amount of boots that are in my possession, I need another boot rack…

…and I DO need more shoe organizers, but for now, this is great! I don’t think I’ve seen the floor of this closet in a while!

Bread done.

I love my Pullman Pan. The bread is perfect for toast or sandwiches–or toasted sandwiches.

I need a moment here. See my cutting board? It’s been with me non-stop for 15 years now. Oona made it in middle school in 2002. This is why our public education is so important. We need elective programs for our children. School needs to be a welcoming and fun place to learn. Please don’t allow our schools to regress–children are our future! My public service announcement is finished!

Chippy didn’t steal any bread and we were able to enjoy toasted slices with pate foie gras and a nice Sauternes!

For starters! And the bread was divine!

I was in a very plaid mood this week. Basically, I was mad for plaid!

I’m literally in love with this pair of Steward plaid pants that I ordered for a big-time sale price at J. Crew. I have a lot of love for these….

Look how great they are! I got into a LOT of trouble though. I purchased them after a “no buy” vow. And then the bill came. It’s a great thing that Bonaparte loves these pants!

An oversized plaid scarf warmed up and gave this black and tan outfit a bit of a punch! I took out my Nat et Nin bag to also give this outfit some personality!

More plaid in the form of a jacket. I love stretchy pants because they don’t bunch up when wearing boots. Boot bunch up drives me crazy!!

I’m missing a day here, but on Friday, it was jeans. I also decided to go with yellow and blue. Yellow is such a happy color and I needed some happiness. I DID manage to sneak some plaid in with a scarf!

I wore a bright yellow necklace from J. Crew that I hadn’t worn in years. I like the way it looks with the yellow sweater and navy blazer.

Yesterday’s “Errand Day” ensemble. A bright orangey red blazer, stripped turtle, skinny jeans, old beat up Weejuns and a toasty scarf!

Backtracking with another very casual look from last Sunday. Cuffed jeans (AG jeans, my new favorite jean brand), newer Weejuns, an old gray sweater, trench from J. Crew Factory (note the hair clip hanging off the coat) and a red and white checked scarf from J. Crew!

And now I am going to go downstairs and make chicken salad! Hope your weekend was productive and fun!

And so, on this Saturday, I kept busy from day into night. It was, A Hard Day’s Night!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged baking, Fashion, Weight Loss | 18 Comments

Makeup Free Movement? Nope. I’m of the Make Me Up Movement!!!

Posted on January 19, 2017 by Catherine

CAVEAT: This post would have been published last night. But my &*()&*(&* damn laptop stinks. My finger touched a certain key and everything disappeared. I’m writing this on the PC instead!

And away. We. Go…

My morning routine is very important to me. While I wait for my day cream and serum and primers to dry upon my visage, I enjoy sipping upon the coffee that Bonaparte makes and serves me—princess that I am. It is also time for me to read one of my favorite blogs, “That’s Not My Age”, by Alyson Walsh. She’s a spunky Brit with tons of style and panache. She actually qualifies as one of my delusional best friends forever. I’m sure she would call Scotland Yard if I ever showed up within two feet of her, but that’s the way it goes!

This morning I read a post referencing the new “No Makeup Movement”. Have you heard of this or seen any of the photographs of the many celebrities posing *cough* *ahem* makeup free?

Most of those who have freed their pusses of cosmetics are under 30 and they are wrinkle and rosacea free as well. They are also lady whisker free. You know where this is going don’t you?

Yeah. Harper’s Bazaar glorified quite a few celebrities who snapped “No Makeup Selfies” and I question the “no makeup” part. Shall we?

Look closely at Heidi Klum’s cheeks. She’s wearing contour. Her bottom lip is also a brighter shade of pink than her top lip and that pink isn’t even. She’s wearing a minimal amount of makeup. I’m more impressed with that beautiful wrinkle-free neck. I want Heidi Klum’s neck.

Salma Hayek thinks that snapping a photo of herself with wet hair means no makeup. Look at her eyes. She’s wearing a very, very light brown shadow on her lids. And look at the bottom lids..I detect a bit of liner and mascara. WTF has cheeks that are naturally illuminated? Nobody. That’s who! She’s wearing some sort of highlighter. Nobody’s hair looks that good wet. The lighting is also a factor in a softer look.

Lady Gaga is so incredibly pretty. But I am deeply confused. Either she has a killer spray tan and didn’t want her face tanned, or she applied a ton of powder on her face before this “no makeup” selfie was snapped. If that is her natural hair, she’s even more gorgeous than I imagined.

I’m having a hard time with this one because it looks like Cindy Crawford has foundation or concealer on that sexy mole of hers. She lined the bottom of her eyes too! I’m wondering if I’m a freak of nature because MY lips are naturally much darker. I need lip color to get MY lips that Cindy light color. I think Cindy does too! Cindy is also very aware of lighting. That’s why she took the photo under the covers. I love my Cindy Crawford sofa. It’s held up so much better than my overpriced Ethan Allen one. Cindy is NOT makeup free in this selfie.

Diane Kruger IS gorgeous. But This is not a completely no-makeup selfie. She’s got lip balm or a very light gloss on. I detect a bit of a line of demarcation above her upper eyelid. But the BEST thing about this selfie is that she has the very beginning of fuzz on her chin. Welcome to the world of lady whiskers my pretty! Soon you will have a tweezer in every purse!

I swear to goddess. Bazaar had the balls to add this pic of Kylie Jenner in the “no makeup” selfie. Oh. Wait. This look IS what no makeup means to the Jenner/Kardashian clan!

Alright. Bar Refaeli is makeup free. And if I looked like her, I would not have the need to wear cosmetics. And SHE is one in a hundred million who could carry this off on a daily basis. She is a freak of nature! Nobody is that naturally beautiful!

Megan Fox has watermarked her top inner eyelids. I know this. I do it all the time. She filled in her brows. She also filled in her face. She admitted to it in an interview. So basically, her makeup is internal.

Now THIS is what I’m talking about. THIS is a true no-makeup photo. It isn’t a selfie. It isn’t from Bazaar. But it’s a bonafide photo of a woman who is in her late sixties, photographed in natural lighting, without filters. THANK YOU SAINT HELEN MIRREN!! Look at the photo after she’s been made up. The cosmetics that have been applied to her face are not a mask. The cosmetics are enhancing the beautiful features she has. She looks a good 15 years younger. I’m very jealous of Mirren. Look at her neck!!! She’s no turkey!

Now take a look at me without makeup. In one photo the lighting is more natural. In the other, the lighting is more subdued and my hair—or the hair that’s left on my head is cascading over my face to hide some of the many flaws.

Both photos, no makeup. Actually the photo in the subdued light looks much worse than the one of me in regular light. My lips need some toning down. I have a bit of rosacea. Look. One nostril is larger than the other. That’s because I had a serious Afrin addiction when I was in my thirties. Back then I didn’t need tweezers in every purse. I carried nasal spray in every purse instead! I was trying to look like Salma Hayek in that other pic –I couldn’t get my hair wet!

I got something to tell youse. I ain’t getting rid of my makeup. I ain’t leavin’ my house makeup free either! Not now. Not ever. Never!

The only place these eye shadows are going are on my eye lids!

I keep my beauty assistants close by…

I have trunks full of stuff I’ve never even used!

My new brushes now have a special place on my vanity. They are for MY vanity!

The last time I left the house makeup free, with my hair in a bun, I was referred to as “sir”. My bun must have looked like one of those man buns—or “muns” because of my receding hairline and I’m sure I needed a lip and chin wax. I rest my case!

Yeah. Hair back. No makeup. A bit late to wax the lip and chin. And I”m called “sir”! Hmmm.. Just like “Sir” Ray Davie and “Sir” Paul McCartney. I would rather be called Her Highness!

Those crazy celebrities. Yeah—you can go makeup free when you are younger. Hell, when I was young I never needed foundation. I didn’t even wear eyeliner until I reached my thirties!

When I was young it was lip gloss, blush and mascara. I always had Angel Face pressed powder in my purse because of my then oily “T” zone. Which I now wish would return!

As a teen, I was never without my Pond’s Angel Face pressed powder. I can still remember the lovely scent it had!

And as I aged—cosmetics became my new best friend. My once peaches and cream complexion turned into one of dried fruit and sour milk—but sour milk that has been in the fridge that there is a dry-cracked coating. (Yes. This happens. Trust me. I’ve left milk in the fridge that long).

Foundation brings a new glow to my skin and evens the tone out.

See what I mean. I’m NOT wearing a ton of makeup in this pic. Just enough to enhance my bone structure and features. And to NOT make me look like a “sir”!

And all the products that I very carefully apply, some days more carefully than others, I think of as my little assistants. Because they assist in enhancing the features that I have to bring life back into them.

And I’m not fond of an overly made up look anyway. I did an experiment a while back. If you may or may not recall–I decided to make myself up like a Kardashian (click the Kardashian name to read the post)

This was my homage to Khloe–when she wore her hair back. Now you know why I love to dye my hair–those gray roots look horrific!

This look scared me because Bonaparte liked it so much! Jesus! Look at my crepey neck!

It took me forever to slop all those cosmetics upon my face. I needed a nap after I was done. It’s too much work. I’ll settle for less makeup and more enhancing! But my point IS cosmetics are a good thing–even better if they make you feel confident! Right??

So please. I don’t want to be a part of any movement that feels women should free themselves of cosmetics.

I’m still trying to deal with the militant group who feel women should go gray! You want to sport gray hair, go do it. But don’t tell me that I should follow suit! I’m quite comfortable in my naturally dyed jet black #1 hair.

In the end, no matter whether or not we wear makeup. Or whether or not we let our tresses go gray, we are all beautiful people.

Melanie knows that–she sang a beautiful song about it!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Aging, Beauty, Cosmetics, Humor | 41 Comments

A Long “A Weighted” Date Night

Posted on January 15, 2017 by Catherine

Time to return to the weight loss posting. It hasn’t been easy to lose the extra calories pounds that were added on during Christmas. But—I was not going to deprive myself of the enjoyment of sitting around the table with my family during the holidays. Family. Food. Fun.

I am finding it somewhat difficult to get back into the swing of my weight loss program; I’m at a plateau. It’s fine though because I am watching what I’ve been eating and went back to cutting out sugar and processed foods. It’s the cheese that’s killing me.

Seriously–do I need a pedicure or what? I’m a disgrace to beauty bloggers everywhere!!

Anyway, at 147.8, I’ve hit a plateau. It’ll take me a while to really get back to the weight loss normal—and with less than ten pounds to lose, it will take some time. Those last elusive pounds are tricky. In the meantime, I spent yesterday getting ready for date night!

Truth be told. Bonaparte and I really don’t go out on many date nights. During the week, we are so happy to come home after work that neither of us can be bothered going out. Even for errands. We will wait for the weekend.

And on the weekends, I find it comforting and therapeutic to cook our special meals.

But when we do go out for date night, it’s to a really good restaurant. And last night we dined at our personal favorite—Spring Mill Café.

Obviously I’m no Jacques-Henri Lartigue when it comes to photography. And I snapped this pic BEFORE the wine. It was a blustery mix of snow and rain as we drove into the parking lot at Spring Mill Cafe!

The restaurant is not an elaborate one nor is it extremely spectacular. The food is French style country with a bit of an edge—but not too edgy. The menu isn’t large but the offerings are always excellent.

Menu at the ready…

The cozy table all set in our little alcove and we were ready for a great meal!

We love it because it is “our” place. We can always expect the service to be excellent. Our little alcove to be reserved and the food always consistent.

And after all the running around and cooking and busy-as-a-bee moments of the holidays, we decided to put one of our Christmas gifts, a certificate to Spring Mill Café, to use.

Spring Mill is a BYO and the wine that Bonaparte decided to bring was a Bordeaux he had sitting around for about five years. A Chateau Lanessan 2000. It was GOOOOODDD!!!

We did enjoy our Kir Royals with the Pate Tasting. They know Monsieur Lartigue well at Spring Mill Cafe–I can tell by the large amount of baguette on the plate!

You-know-who had his usual steak. And he RAVED about the perfection of it. He spoke in his sleep of it–and woke up praising the taste!

I went with my wintertime favorite: Deconstructed Cassoulet. I was thrilled to see it on the menu again. I LOVE Cassoulet–and deconstructed is such a different and more refined way to enjoy it. Duck Confit. Sausage in a little puff pastry. Beans. I was in epicure heaven!

Yeah. I know. I said I have given up sugar. I cheated last night with dessert. I had the Mousse au Chocolat..

It did not take me long to polish this little gem of a dessert off..

Ohlalalala! I helped with the Creme Brulee too! Overall, it was a fantastic dinner and fun date night!

I was happy because I was looking a bit neglected and a bit raggy and preparing for date night was a great way to spend a Saturday by doing all things girly!

A bit of makeup left over from the day before. Yes! I’m THAT lazy at times–but I didn’t have to apply any to go to the nail salon. Casually dressed for my nail appointment!

My friend Kim, on the right and her sister! I LOVE going to Oaks Nail Salon on Egypt Road! If you live in the Philly area, you really should stop by here. Kim is the best nail technician ever! She’s going to go back home to Vietnam for a few weeks to visit her father and I can’t wait to see her when she returns!!

Bonaparte was exasperated by the state of my nails. I ripped the gel off and cut my nails down to the nubs because it is impossible to type on this new laptop with longer nails. In a fit of getting used to the keyboard—let’s just say I had a moment, and the nails were cut!

Look how disgusting my nails were after I ripped the gel off and cut them down. The fact that Toppik residue from filling in my bald hair spots are also embedded in my nails makes them look absolutely vulgar! Bonaparte would not take me to dinner unless I had them fixed! AFTER–look and admire Kim’s handy work! She’s an artisan! My hands look pretty again!

Being that my little toes looked awful on the scale, I also decided to have a pedicure and had those lady whiskers waxed away!

Yeah Kim. I don’t blame you for wearing a mask to take care of my stinky feet!

Look at those cute toes! And look at that hair that just fell from my head! Can I ever take a decent photo?

Next step was a relaxing bath upon arriving home. Bonaparte took Chippy with him to run errands and I had the house to myself. I exfoliated and then put a light coating of fake tan on my legs.

The snow started falling. Being on the safe side of “milkbreadeggs”, we had the milk and eggs. I baked some bread!

I normally use my Pullman pan for baking loaves of Brioche. This time I made white sandwich bread…

Out of the oven and warm–it turned out great! I’ll be baking more for next weekend. We’ll toast slices for foie gras!

While the bread was baking, I decided to relax with a cuppa tea and my new favorite TV Show. “The Mick” starring the great Kaitlin Olson of “It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia”

You KNOW how much I love “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and THIS show, The Mick, is just as funny–if not more! This IS the ultimate girl show. Ultimate!!!!

At this point it was time to get ready.

I turned my unmade wrinkly face into a more human appearance. I didn’t want an overdone look.

I know. You are thinking it is nearly impossible to get this face to look like….

And since my hair needed a bit of help I placed a Tony of Beverly topper over my bio hair for a fuller look.

…THIS! Marc Jacobs Foundation, Maybelline contour stick, Naked Smokey Eyes palette, NARS Multiple in Riviera, e.l.f. eyeliner crayon used as brow color, NYC Color liquid Eyeliner, Maybelline Lash Sensational mascara–which I picked up for two bucks and will go back to buy more, Chapstick and iT’s Lip Vitality. Whew! That’s a lot to look natural!

I went “high-low” with the attire. I know, I know, I know!! Many of my circle of friends here aren’t crazy about the ripped jeans look. But I love the way it looks with some high-end finishes. When I go out to eat, I want to be comfortable. Hence the jeans!

I give up on the pics. My phone takes lousy pics in evening lighting. I need a digital camera! Anyway, I wore my favorite AG jeans that were on sale at Nordstrom Rack. Pewter heels. J. Crew FACTORY version of the Tippi sweater which does not shrink when washed and my J. Crew Lady Jacket. Lots of fake pearls completed the look!

And YES. OLD PEOPLE GO OUT ON DATE NIGHT! I could sense the tone of “eww” and “ugh” when Oona called and I told her B. and I were having “date night”. Sorry, twenty-somethings. Sixty and Seventy somethings are allowed to enjoy date night too! Let’s not get all ageist on our social lives!

And so, we left Chippy to his own devices, of which he most likely spent the entire evening trying to figure out how to get the bread off the counter, and headed to Spring Mill Café! And that was my Saturday!

Today the sun is shining and later this afternoon I’ll be running an errand. My new project is re-stuffing the cushions on that “bane-of-existence” overpriced Ethan Allen sofa. What a headache!

Getting back into the weight loss grove—here’s some of the outfits I wore this week!

From the quality of the photo, it is hard to see that the pants are Black Watch plaid. These pants have not fit me properly in over two years. They were tight and uncomfortable. Now they are loose and I love them so much more!

A better view of the pants. I thought I purchased these from J. Crew–but I didn’t. They are from Loft!

My “Poinsettia” skirt. THIS is from J. Crew. I ordered it maybe three years ago and could not even get it zippered up last year. I was so disappointed!

These days I can zipper it up and the waist is a bit large!

Office attire with my “Nun” boots! I love these boots because they remind me of the shoes the nuns who taught me wore. I know–I’m weird.

A little bling to brighten up an all-black outfit never hurt anyone!

And finally, my new Stewart Plaid Lady Jacket from J. Crew. My bargain of the year-even though we are only a bit over two weeks in!!

That’s it for today! I realize I need to save up for a new camera–or a new phone! And I continue to curse this new laptop because one false move on the keyboard and the cursor is all over the place. Making me a real-life “curser”!! Have a great day and for those with the three-day weekend (not I), enjoy your Monday off!!

And mentioning food, here’s a song that I’m constantly revisiting. I love this song so much. French Canadian singer Lisa Leblanc’s “Kraft Dinner” I need to see her in concert!! Canada! I love all her imports!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged date-night, Fashion, French-country food, Weight Loss | 30 Comments

Don’t Call Me A Liberal. I’m a Humanist!!!!!!!!

Posted on January 12, 2017 by Catherine

Ever since I’ve been associated with my desire for either Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders to be elected President of these already great United States of America, I’ve been labeled a Liberal.

I’ve also been called a “Snowflake”. A term I actually had to research and found this description: An overly sensitive person, incapable of dealing with any opinions that differ from their own. These people can often be seen congregating in “safe zones” on college campuses.

Apparently, “Snowflake” is used to describe the generation of spoiled, overly sensitive young people who were raised by overly sensitive, overly politically correct parents. I’m flattered that others would think of me as being so young and youthful!

I’m veering off topic here.

Because I did not vote for Trump seemingly makes me a liberal.

Let’s get this shit clear right now.

No. I am NOT a “Liberal” I am a Humanist. I care deeply about people. I am self-centered–NOT self-righteous. And self-righteousness is a trait both Liberals AND Conservatives share too well!

I am not a liberal. I do not believe in political correctness. I do believe in being polite and gracious. I do not get insulted if a man calls me “dear” or “honey” or tells me that I look nice or pretty. I’m mature enough to realize that it is a compliment. And those compliments come from men of a generation or two ahead of me. Generations past when little terms of endearment such as “dear” and “honey” were not harassment.

And I’m that girl who calls the mailman “sweetie” and he doesn’t get upset. And I call the lunch delivery guy “toots” and I haven’t been arrested for harassment!

You know what harassment is? Harassment is when a man debases women. Men such as the president-elect. He grabs women by the pussy. And he’s proud of it. He said those words in a video that the entire world saw. And yet, he was elected president. That is the sort of character people voted for. I’m still puzzled how any woman could vote for a man who speaks like that about women.

And because I mentioned that Trump is a debasing and filthy pig for speaking about women in that manner, I am labeled a “liberal”. Um. I think not. I am merely a person who would never, ever speak about any of my female counterparts in that way. I’m a Humanist.

And because I thought it vile and disgusting and inhumane that the man who is our president-elect spoke before a crowd and mocked the disabled, I am labeled a “Liberal”.

I guess I’m a real snowflake because I took the president-elect’s mocking of the disabled personally. I had a sister who was physically and mentally disabled. She died. In the world of our president-elect and his cronies—they love when disabled people die because they won’t need government “entitlements” as they get older.

Because I’m compassionate and feel for the disabled, I’m a liberal. No. I am but a person who cares about those who are limited in their development both physically and mentally.

People I know who voted for the president elect also call me a “bleeding heart liberal” because I believe in medical insurance for all citizens of these United States. Why is that such a liberal way of thinking? Why shouldn’t all the people of our country have health insurance? Why should superior health care only go to the wealthy? The political mafia doesn’t sleep with the fishes—they sleep with the healthcare CEO’s and lobbyists. The president-elect and his ilk are creaming in their polyester trousers over the dismantling of the affordable health care program, aka “Obamacare”. While I realize Obamacare isn’t perfect, it does work and millions of people who could not afford healthcare now have it. I am one of those people. Obamacare could have been perfection had the Republicans and Conservatives in Congress embraced it and truly cared about We the People. Instead, these politicians were so full of hate for President Obama that they stymied every move he made.

They hated Obama because of his black blood. Those pasty white crackers most likely hated Obama even more so because he is bi-racial. And in their fish-belly white world the thought of a white woman and a black man making a little café au lait baby who would grow up to be President was more than they could handle. Imagine. A man of “tainted” blood becoming President! I’m sure those conservative congressmen and women went to their houses of worship on Sunday and prayed for the KKK to really make that big house on Pennsylvania Avenue the Whiter house!

And because I wish the best of healthcare for all of the citizens who share my roots of being American, and because I love, admire, and support our wonderful President Obama, I am labeled a liberal. In reality, I just want fairness for everyone. And I think Obama had a rough time from the get-go. I am proud and happy that I voted for him twice. And because I voted for Obama does not a liberal make me—it makes me a woman who does her civic duty and gets out there and votes! Voting is a privilege that I do not take lightly.

Yes. I can hold a grudge longer than Harry Houdini could hold his breath. And I’m snarky. And I complain. But you know what? I truly, truly care about people.

I do not like extremes. The extreme right sickens me because they hate and despise any one person or group who isn’t like them. They hate gays. They hate Catholics (except for the extreme Catholics like the very dangerous vice-president-elect Pence) and Jews and Muslims and Atheists and Hindus and any person who isn’t “Christian”. They can go to church but they can’t pray that hate away!

The extreme right hates all the people in this beautiful America who receive “entitlements”.

The extreme right believes the all people who receive “entitlements” from the government are all either black, lazy, drug addicts, alcoholics, single mothers, and people who don’t want to work.

I’m labeled a snowflake because I believe in government assistance for those who need it. I’ve been with the unemployed and I can vouch for every single one of them. They would rather work. Sure, a small number of people take advantage of the programs. But the numbers are so small and so miniscule that it doesn’t even put a dent in the government spending. I don’t refer to government assistance as “entitlements”.

You wanna know who the truly entitled are? They are the angry people who can’t stand the fact that someone else is receiving any sort of aid. They are the ones who “assume” everyone is cheating them.

No way can I understand that people think don’t think the wealthy aren’t entitled. I have a bridge to sell ya!

But these same people never question the entitled attitudes of the wealthy one percent. The one percent who cheats the government of billions of tax dollars every year! The wealthy who vote with their purse strings only. The wealthy that own large companies and outsource cheap labor as their employees. These are the truly entitled and our government has made entitlement programs for them so their taxes are cut and they can use cheap labor instead of hiring Americans.

And I’m the liberal because I can’t stand the thought of outsourcing?? Wow!!!

Oh the extreme left doesn’t get a pass from me either.

I’m sick and tired of their overtly “do-gooder” policing. Guess what? It’s ok for someone to leave their dog in a car with the window cracked while running into the store for a container of milk. That person’s dog won’t die in the middle of winter if its owner leaves the vehicle for a two-minute transaction. And thanks to the extreme lefty politically correct, I now have to drive a half a mile in a parking lot to find a space because of the great number of “special” parking spaces. I see people running out of cars with handicapped plates faster than superman outflying a speeding bullet. And the parking spaces for “women with small children”? No. Get out of the car, take your child by the hand and teach them how to walk properly in a parking lot!! Telling a woman her dress is beautiful is not harassment. A parent disciplining their child in public is not abusive. A parent beating the living shit out of their child is abusive. Get your priorities in place!

Because I feel that the president-elect needs to stop his immature rants and babyish bullying on Twitter, I have been labeled quite the falling snowflake. Not quite. I just believe that a man who is going to be sworn in as the leader of our already great country should be focusing more on what is important for our country. He better get those “pussy-grabbing” fingers off his phone and perhaps grab a pen instead and take notes on how to behave like a mature adult.

The extreme left and the extreme right are both very, very dangerous groups of people. We need to get back to being a moderate and bipartisan society.

Because I believe very strongly that religion has absolutely no place in politics, I’m labeled a dangerous and very bad liberal person.

Really? Our Country was founded by men who couldn’t stand organized religion. I’m still trying to figure out just how and when Jesus unwillingly got involved in all political goings on.

Our America is not a Christian country in exclusivity. We are a melting pot of religions and religious ideologies and not all of them are Christian. We are Atheists, Agnostics, Baha’i, Buddhist, Confucians, Hindus, Islams, Jains, Jews, Sikhs, Shinto, Taoists, Universalists, Scientologists, Rastafarians, Muslims, Pagans and Wiccans. And I thank the good Sisters who taught me in Catholic School; they reminded us that not everyone shared our beliefs and that we should accept and respect all religions and all beliefs.

Because I’m respectful of the ideologies and beliefs of others I am labeled a liberal. Not really, I’m just intelligent enough to realize that not everyone believes in the Jesus and God that I believe in. I’m also intelligent enough to pray to St. Anthony every time I lose something. He helps me find things. Lots of things! I’m a Humanist who loves me my Saints!

Thank you St. Anthony for finding my long lost lipgloss. Can you help me find my Alex and Ani bracelets tonight? Can you tell St. Jude I need him for a request…and St. Dympha…

I am a Humanist. I believe in compassion and empathy. I believe in humility. I believe in respect and kindness. I believe in equality. I believe that no one person is better than the other. I believe that people should be treated with dignity.

And today I am a Humanist who is so very afraid of what will happen to our great country and her people come the day that vile man is sworn into the Presidency. His companionship with a Russian dictator will have an effect on our country. Good and decent people will suffer. And those who voted for this awful specimen of a human being will also suffer. He is not a Humanist, nor a liberal nor is he a moderate. He is a vicious, deceitful and dangerous man and he built an entire campaign around anger and hate.

I am a Humanist who is asking all my friends on Friday, January 20, 2017 to pray to their God; be it Ra, Yahweh, Mohammed, Bob Marley, Buddha, or Hipster Jesus. Pray for America. Pray for our people. Most of all, pray for strength—because we are going to have to be strong during the darkest political days to come.

My beautiful country and Liberty Enlightening The World both weep because our great country is about to fall on dark days. What happened to the real America–the America who welcomed and loved and cared? She’s dying..

I Ask you to listen to this song by George Harrison. The melody is haunting but the words are so incredibly true. “Beware of Darkness”

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Humanity, Labels, Politics. | 51 Comments

Is That Sale Really a Bargain?

Posted on January 11, 2017 by Catherine

It was during this past Christmas shopping season when I spotted her. I left the office and headed to the mall to pick up a few gifts. I was lucky. I had extra cash in my Longchamp bag because I was gifted with a fine and dandy Christmas bonus.

The bonus afforded me the pleasure of giving to others without being stressed out over credit card charges.

You KNOW I’m a giver. I couldn’t wait to hit the sales!

As I walked in the direction of my favorite store, J. Crew, I saw a sign with bright red lettering. So festive for the Holidays. The sign read 50% Off!

You had me at “Sale”!

And as I made my way into the store, with every intention of buying for others, I saw her. She was on a hanger. A foot away from me. In her plaid, quilted glory. The J. Crew Stewart Plaid Lady Jacket. I walked over. Breaking into a cold sweat from the overwhelming flush I get every time I see the color “plaid”! I touched her. Lightweight. Not wool, this minx of a Lady Jacket, but a natural 100% polyester of the best blend! The lining—a deep forest green that made the perfect companion to the same green that was blended into the plaid. I tried her on. The 8 fit perfectly. It was a fit that lent itself more to the snug side rather than the loose. She was a charmer and I looked so “fetch”!!

The Mother of all Lady Jackets. I immediately fell in love–with the jacket! Look at that plaid. Look at the detail in the trim. This HAD to be mine!

And then I glanced down at the price. At $228.00 I was a bit taken aback. I couldn’t justify spending even half of that price—not when my generosity for others was overflowing.

Instead, I made the purchase of a different Lady Jacket. A black textured one. The fit was much looser but could be worn with a heavier sweater underneath. At a price point of $198.00 and a coupon for $20.00 off, the price of 79.00 was a more affordable one.

J. Crew has to start placing models who eat a meal on their site. She needs to eat at least a peanut or seventy! This jacket looks better on a more filled-out body! Like mine!

A short while later, I was armed with gift cards and my own sale item. The Lady Jacket that I liked. I didn’t love it. Surprisingly enough, I ended up wearing the second choice quite a bit during Christmas and up to the present.

Bad quality pic but here’s the black Lady Jacket on me. It’s so chic and Channel-ee. Mr. Karl would even agree that it looks elegant!

I love blazers. I also love Chanel-inspired jackets. But here’s the thing. I cannot afford the real deal. I’m not wealthy. And so, I look for a similar style at a sale price. That sale price could be a bargain. And sometimes when I make a purchase of an item on sale, it turns out not to be the great bargain I thought it would be.

Back to the Stewart Plaid Lady Jacket. A few days after Christmas I received an email from my best friend, J. Crew. I was instructed to open the email to discover new sale items! Lo and behold, the Stewart Plaid Lady Jacket was on sale. The sale price was $159.99. Oh. It gets better. The was an additional 50% off that sale price. Final price $79.50. My fingers never worked faster!

Unfortunately, at that early hour of the morning, 8 AM to be exact, there was a glitch with the J. Crew site and I was unable to order. I walked into the office sulking. A few hours later, I decided to try my luck again. The glitch was fixed but the jacket was no longer available in my size.

I was so upset that I went to twitter to the J. Crew’s customer service, @jcrew_help. It pays to tweet your painful heart out. Didn’t the good folks at @jcrew_help find the jacket in my size.

I made the purchase, I received the jacket and I’m absolutely in love with it and will be wearing it for a long, long time!

I’m so in love with this jacket! Here it is all dressed down for Saturday errands! It’s so perfect!

This sale priced-jacket turned out to be a great bargain for me. Due to the fact it isn’t wool, and it is lightweight means I get to wear her in the Winter, Spring and Fall. I’ll allow her to air out during the heat of the summer!

My two Lady Jackets! The sale purchases ended up being great bargains! Both will be worn often! Both ARE being worn often!

Sales are great events and if you shop them wisely, you will make great investments. It pays to think out a purchase! When we travel, oftentimes I’m in Paris during the “Soldes” and don’t think I don’t take advantage of that!

If you plan to travel overseas, you will luck out if you coincide with the “Soldes”. The prices and bargains are not to be believed!

I have another sale item that turned out to be the bargain of the century. I’ve written about it before but I’ll revisit. My Longchamp le Pliage weekender/duffle bag—the best deal ever at Charles de Gaulle airport a couple of years ago. 43 euros. I’m pretty sure it was marked down that low because of the color. A creamy white. But I don’t care. I welcome dirt and filth to adhere to any item of luggage that I have because nobody will make an attempt to steal my shit! I cannot begin to tell you how many flights, how many weekend trips that trusty bag has been on.

The cream colored bag is the one I got for practically nothing at CDG airport in Paris. I was also lucky enough to be traveling during the sales! This holds a ton of stuff and I don’t have to check it in!! Best. Bargain. Ever!

It was the deal of the century.

I have a couple of duds too. J. Crew recently added a Tippi Turtleneck to their line of lightweight sweaters. The sweater, when new, looks great. The length is wonderful—especially for me who is long waisted. I loved it so much that purchased three of them at a great sale price.

Then I washed one of the turtlenecks. And it shrunk a bit. In length. I wouldn’t have minded if it shrunk in width—I like a snug fit. But length—unh unh. Shrinkage of just a half-inch in length is bad for me. My choices of wearing this shrunken sweater are now limited; making the sale price no bargain. In addition, I’ll have to dry clean the others, making the price per wear higher.

The sale price on these Tippi Turtlenecks turned out not to be a great bargain after all. Can you see how much the black sweater shrunk in length. I was so upset but I learned a lesson!

I have another recent sale item in my possession. Donna of “Grandlakestyle” on Instagram brought this beauty to my attention. It’s one of those super cozy, toasty, wintery sweaters that is perfect for lounging at home, or a casual day at the office or for running errands. Total? $19.99 from the J. Jill site. It’s adorable. For the price, this is a sweater that’ll be worn winter after winter and during the Christmas season—and it isn’t ugly!

This sweater is so stinkin’ adorable! And it is comfy and cozy to boot!

I wore this just hangin’ around the house. It’s so warm too! It was a great deal at $19.99 which included shipping!

My other prized possession of this season is the J. Crew Factory version of the infamous Schoolboy Blazer. My plaid passion. It was half off of the sale price of $89.99. The construction is excellent and not shoddy at all. The fabric is heavy and this is just as good as the original J. Crew Schoolboy Blazer. It is a great item to have! And was worth every penny of the $45.00 I ended up spending on this!

My little plaid Schoolboy!

I’m a sucker for contrasting detail like this red fabric around the collar. It makes me love popping it!

Isn’t it adorable? I love a blazer with jeans because it gives a polished look!

Old Navy has a wicked T Shirt dress that I’ve written and raved about. Damn! It’s on sale for $12.97 now. I have a Large and even with my weight loss the Large still fits although I notice it is looking a bit looser. The dress was a huge bargain at $15.00 and I hope this little gem is brought back for next summer’s season. I have two in black, two in gray and one in blue and trust me, this is a dress that has been and will continue to be worn many, many times over.

Photo on the left. I took my pajama bottoms and sweatshirt off just to show you how this looks. The top is getting a bit loose but even with a substantial weight loss, the L fits very well! Photo on the right is from earlier in the fall layered with a denim jacket, scarf tights and boots. It’s a versatile three-season dress and you can’t beat the price. I’ve washed these dresses tons of times and no shrinkage. I air dry!

These dresses have also been traveling with me for two years now. They pack very well!

Old Navy also made a killer T-shirt that was five bucks. The length and fit were perfect and when I found out the shirt was discontinued, I hoarded! It’s still a bargain!

I still have some that haven’t been worn or opened. I LOVE these tees!

I don’t buy clothing at full price. Never. I will stalk an item until it is on a special sale or until it is marked down.

In France, I load up on beauty items and skin care. All at sale or bargain prices.

My mecca of all things discounted beauty and skincare! On the corner of Rue Bonaparte and Rue du Four. The best corner in Paris!

Many of the items in our home were purchased during sales (with the exception of the overpriced Ethan Allen sofa that I can’t stand looking at).

All of these items were well-thought out and frugal spending choices. That sofa? It’s a Cindy Crawford sofa and it has held up better than the Ethan Allen one! Sometimes the pricier version isn’t always the best!

How’s about you? You go after the sales or not? How do you shop? Do you have some great deals you want to share? I’m nosy and need to know!

WAIT!! Before I end this post!! Last night Jimmy Fallon returned from the Golden Globes to do the first Tonight Show back. HE THANKED MY ROMAN ON-AIR!! The link is below. Get past the commercial and watch the first minute of his monologue. He runs up to Roman and hugs him! I wish I had been there–better yet, it’s good I wasn’t–I would have embarrassed my son!

http://www.nbc.com/the-tonight-show/video/queen-latifah-fred-armisen-the-flaming-lips/3449293

You like “Sale-ing?” Because writing this post made me think of the song “Sailing” by Christopher Cross. 1979. I loved that song!!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Fashion, sales, Shopping | 23 Comments

Atypical 60

The Jeans For Every Body. And a Bit of Help!

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Attention to Details, Ladies! Attention to the Deets!

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I’m Not Carrying the Weight of The World On My Shoulders. It’s in My Bag!

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I’m a ConTOUR Artist–Not a Con Artist!

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Atypical 60 Looks At The Inauguration Fashions!

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And A-Weigh We Go. Off To Run Some Saturday Errands

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Makeup Free Movement? Nope. I’m of the Make Me Up Movement!!!

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A Long “A Weighted” Date Night

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Don’t Call Me A Liberal. I’m a Humanist!!!!!!!!

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Is That Sale Really a Bargain?

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