Oh happy day ! I’m having my hair colored and cut (i.e. trimmed) today and the sky is as white as the line of demarcation on my forehead.
Fifty Shades of Gray, or just call me skunk stripe!
No matter what the season, every single time I go for a hair appointment, the weather is bad. Oh well, at least I have a scarf and hat. And…Spring is in 22 days!! Yippee!
My plan was to get out of the house as early as possible and do some exercise walking strolling sauntering around King of Prussia Mall.
Some go to the gym to exercise. I cover the Mall!
I wanted to try on the metallic pointy-toed shoes that J. Crew has in their recent catalogue.(Which I would have purchased even though I don’t have any particular place to wear them these days.)
At some “point” these will be mine!
J. Crew is also having an extra 40% off of sale items. In addition, my plan was to visit Lilly Pulitzer and Nordstrom to check out the warm-weather clothing and figure out how many pounds I need to lose to get back to a size 6 by the time I go to France!
Instead, I called my girlfriend Jeannie.
We ended up discussing the foibles of our Mob Wives.
Bring back Carla, Love, and Ramona. Get rid of the Natalies from Philly!
THAT conversation led to our mutual giddiness over a second season of “Southern Charm”, so deliciously entertaining!
They are such a delicious embarrassment to that genteel Southern way. Bless their hearts!
THAT led to our conversation about our love for “Below Deck” and we finished with a critique of “Housewives of Beverly Hills”.
I would love a job on a yacht, but I wouldn’t want to work!
I want to be best friends with Lisa Rinna. So does Jeannie!
Andy Cohen – are you listening?? Will you bring Mob Wives to Bravo if VH1ever drops it?
Over an hour later, and no Mall visit, I finally got dressed and left to get my hair done.
Fact: I’m OCD about parking spaces—and certainly not in a good way. I think it may be from my days of living in NYC. When I lived in Manhattan, my days centered on alternate side of the street parking and having enough change for parking meters (those were the days before parking Kiosks). Double-parking was a way of life. So were tickets.
I’m not kidding. I had to live with this for over 20 years!
Due to the stress I suffer from parking, I try to make my hair appointments as early in the day as possible. The Bleu Mousse Salon is in downtown Wayne, on Philly’s Main Line.
My FAVORITE Hair Salon!! Ever!
Not only is the parking in front of the salon metered, but the parking is also on the diagonal. I need happy pills to park the car back the car out of the space when I leave.
This kind of parking is way too stressful for me. It’s backing out. I can’t see!
My hair appointment was at noon. I drove into the parking spot at 11:00 AM.
Money in the meter, I was able to take a nice brisk walk to the Rite-Aid down the street. Do you love drugstores as much as I do? Not for the drugs—but for all the “stuff” the drugstores sell. Take a look at this makeup aisle!
It’s almost overwhelming. Drugstore makeup is GREAT for travel! You don’t have to worry about leaving anything behind!
More girly goodies!
And YES. I DID open the Coppertone–just to get a whiff of the scent of summer!
I’m glad it’s Lent or I would have purchased a chocolate cross and ate it right there!
I spent almost an hour moping around that Rite-Aid store–and I even managed to pick up some travel sized items for my upcoming trip in June. I like to pack early!
Already in the travel bag!
As usual, my hair turned out great! I’m so happy! I also have a great time when I’m at the Salon. It’s a comfy environment! What do you think? No more gray!
The hair looks great-but damn that turkey neck!
Oops! Gotta go now! Monsieur Bonaparte is getting hungry! Until tomorrow, XOXOXOXOOOOOO!
I need some one to drive me around. Drive My Car–The Beatles!
Happy Wednesday Everyone! Well, Murphy’s Law keeps on aknockin’ at my door. It’s so weird—when I was working and had medical benefits, nothing ever happened to me. Well—remember the hemorrhoid episode? Read this past post to learn more!
The other day when I dropped Oona off at the train station to go back to NYC, I fell on black ice when I was returning to my car. Trying to block the fall I bent both hands over and the knees of my jeans were all messed up. Thank goodness, I was fine.
This morning I was taking a bath and what happens???—I get an epic bloody nose!
Now I can no longer wear white jeans thanks to a surprise ‘roid pop!
No can wear the white jeans for now!
I need to wear knee pads in the winter weather if not to protect my knees, to protect that of my jeans.
Darker knee pads will do for me, please!
I’m wearing this scarf with lots of red and keeping it close to my face. I’m also keeping the fingernails red. Just in case of an epic nosebleed whilst out and about. The blood will blend!
You know it’s gonna happen! That bloody nose and I’ll be prepared!
Go ahead Murphy! Come over–I’ll even have dessert for you!
The saga of the new bathroom and backsplash in the kitchen continues. So far we’ve had five estimates and only one contractor was courteous enough to get back to us in a timely manner. What goes on? Contractors don’t want small jobs? Whatever happened to the saying “No job is too small for us”?
Anyway, Monsieur Bonaparte and I went to The Tile Shop in King of Prussia earlier today to order tiles for the backsplash and to get ideas for the bathroom.
Our kitchen “area” is large. We have the sunroom off to one end, and another area where we have a small table and two chairs in front of a bay window, but the “working” area is more contained and isn’t large.
Ugh. I got rid of all the “stuff” on the counters only to have a certain someone put all the “stuff” back on the counters. I cannot stand the clutter!!!!
I want white subway tiles for the backsplash. Shiny–not matte. Here’s the tiles we went with:
I like the slight marbling!
Its fun—and we both pretty much agree on having a classic look–I also don’t want anything “busy” in the kitchen. Simple. Like me!
For the bathroom we’re going for a slightly vintage feel. The room is very small, so it’ll just be used when we have visitors. But it has to be inviting!
The perfect floor!
We both love the same floor tiles in the shower!
We have a winner!
And I need this subway station print on the wall. When I was a child, this very subway line went behind our house!
Aren’t those pictures great? It’ll be a challenge to find old vintage ceramic faucet fixtures, but I’m going to research later this evening–after Mob Wives!
Raise your hands if you’ve been following the Giuliana Rancic/Zendaya Coleman feud!
Nothing more juicy than celebrities be feuding! Especially when the feud is just plain foolish!
It’s too much for me. Zendaya Coleman’s Oscar “ensemble” was criticized by Rancic on Fashion Police. Rancic likened Coleman’s look to “weed and patchouli”. She hated the dreads. Fine. Now it’s turning into a racial issue andRancic issued an apology!!!! Huh??? I’m not processing this at all. In the first place, Zendaya looked adorable. If Rancic didn’t like it, she’s entitled to her opinion and her opinion had nothing to do with race!
She’s adorable!
It’s the hippie side of me that loves dreads. On both black, white, yellow, freckled, and pigment-challenged persons, I love them! Always have. Always will. However, this has nothing to do with race. Weed and patchouli are not racist–neither are dreadlocks!
He’s and happy and “dread”fully hippified!
Another “dreaded” cutie!
Lots of dreadlocks in the “Fashion” episode of “Portlandia”…and they look great!
Remember Linda Perry’s dreads from her “4 Non-Blondes” days?
Bob Marley–the best looking man in dreads. EVER!
I will always equate patchouli, weed, and dreads with hippies.
And yes, Patchouli remains one of my favorite scents. Every now and then I wear it!
I love hippies and everything about them! Dreads may have originated from Rasta-cool, but I do believe the choice to wear hair the way you want isn’t relegated to what one’s race or gender is!
Kelly Osbourne is contemplating leaving “Fashion Police” because of Rancic’s words!
Ohhhhhhhhhh…Wait………….I’m looking for a job. Could it be that I could be Osborne’s possible replacement? I could represent all the cross-eyed people of the world! Better yet, I could represent the Older, cross-eyed people of the world! I gotta go now. I’m sending my resume to Ryan Seacrest and Kathy Griffin. *Keep fingers crossed just like my eyes* so I can be the next member of the Fashion Police team!!!!!
Today’s tune—David Bowie “Fashion”–it’s so appropriate for the Fashion Police feuding and the “Fashion” episode of “Portlandia”!
Tonight begins a new semester of French class for me.
Back to class. Again!
I should be in a French IV class but I repeated French I and tonight I repeat French II. Every year I say “I am going to be the best student in the class”.
Je suis femme dunce!
It never works out. This is because I have too much fun and I also never do my homework. This time it’s different. I’m out of work so I have more time to concentrate on my lessons. It isn’t that I don’t like the language though, because when we are in France, I can understand a great deal of the spoken and written word–I just have issues speaking it! Although I have to admit, I think secretly Bonaparte is happier that I can’t speak his native language because it keeps me quiet!
So, earlier this morning, I had to scurry around the house looking for my French stuff which was, not surprisingly, stuffed into a tote bag in one of the closets. I also had other “stuff” in the tote. I have to admit. I can be pretty disorganized in an organized way.
I can explain. If you come into my home, all the furniture is very nice and fits well into the thought-out space that it is placed in. Everything is cleaned, dusted, vacuumed. In some areas, like sinks—the toothpick cleaning has been done. All the closets and cabinets, with the exception of the pantry, remain organized and neat.
It’s just that—well…..my purses and tote bags, as well as my car, can be pretty disorganized. The desk that I turned into a makeup vanity is also disorganized. I figured that since I had to find my French stuff, I may as well find the rest of my Weight Watchers stuff too. In addition, it would be a good thing to organize my makeup desk.
Found it!
The French lesson book was found easily. And I found the book, but I also found…….
This little Cheat Sheet booklet I created. It obviously didn’t help!
A mouse pad with a photograph of me and my son Roman taken 12 years ago from my niece’s L.I. Bat Mitzvah.
Boarding pass from Dublin to Paris that has been in said tote for about three years now.
Map of the City of Belfast. Last time I was in Belfast was 2004.
Brochure for the Museum of Oceanography in Monaco…3 years ago.
Cheap reading glasses? Why do I even need these–my prescription glasses are way stronger!
Gloves that once belonged to Bonaparte’s daughter who meant to donate them to Goodwill but I intervened.
Stuff from the Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn. How’d that get in my old tote?
Now you would think that I would trash all but the French Book, cheat sheet, gloves and the mouse pad. Right? No! I just gathered everything, placed it all in an envelope and tucked it away in my bra drawer–but at least it’s neatly tucked away!
I believe this is hoarding-lite!
Onto the makeup desk. I know this is really disgusting and I should be more sterile about my makeup. I’m trying. It’s just that after I make my face beautiful, which takes a good chunk of my morning, I’m usually in a rush to move on–hence the disorganization. I’m working on it!
BEFORE–yeah. It’s pretty bad…but, after five minutes of work…..
It looks so much better. Today is Tuesday. I give it ’till Friday!
I’m so happy I’m organized. Now I can go to my class without stress or issue!
Oh…do you use makeup until every. last. bit. is finished? I wonder about that because I won’t get rid of a makeup item I love until it’s completely gone. I’m still scraping the bottom of the pan of that Too-Faced Sweet Pea blush before I move onto the Stila one. Look:
That tiny bit is what I’m still working on!
I never found the rest of my Weight Watchers stuff. My BFF from NYC, Jeannie called me. She rescued me from my chores! We were on the phone for almost 3 hours! I swear time flies when you are having a great conversation!
Time flies when you talk with a great friend!
Well, some of my organizational skills may be far from perfect–as well as my French. But–I had a perfect time with Jeannie today!
In honor of my repeated French Class, here’s some French music from Francoise Hardy! Le Temps de l’amour!
Happy Monday! What a wonderful weekend I had hanging out with my daughter!
Amtrak. Always late!
Saturday couldn’t have come quick enough—I picked Oona up in Paoli after her Amtrak ride from NYC—we headed over to Bleu Mousse Salon where Adam worked his usual greatness on her hair. We had planned an afternoon of shopping but, for the first time this winter, the meteorologists were correct in their weather predictions.
For once the meteorologists were right!
It snowed like a Bastid so we went home and cozied up on the sofa with tea and TV! Nothing more fun on a cold, gray, snowy Saturday afternoon than relaxing on the sofa with a blanket thrown over and chilling with your kids—it’s just like the old days!
Lots of great food, wine, and conversation made for a late night but a wonderful evening!
Chippy. The human canine alarm clock!
We headed to the outlets in Limerick yesterday. Chippy couldn’t wait to wake Oona up!
Nothing like Starbucks on a cold morning!
A stop at Starbucks for Skinny Chai Lattes and egg and spinach wraps warmed us up! After a few purchases at J. Crew factory, it was just too cold to venture around the outdoor mall, so it was home for some pre-Oscar red carpet festivities.
On our way home for some pre-Oscar fun! Didn’t Adam do a great job on Oona’s hair?
Oscar weekend is always one of the most entertaining weekends of the year. Why—event the news stations forget about the local goings on to concentrate on the Hollywood stars and movies. It’s delicious!
As much as I love and adore Doogie Howser, NPH, I was a bit disappointed in his hosting. The writing was just dull and bland.
He did look adorbs in those tighty whities though!
We get to view all the “act-ors” in all their humble narcissism sincere excitement. I wouldn’t miss this for the world.
I especially love the controversy—like the sore losers who weren’t nominated blaming the academy’s oversights on race. Actors using acceptance speeches as a political and social issues platform are always far entertaining. And—I’m still waiting for the day when a winner just goes up to accept their statue and just says with a smile “Thanks” rather than..
” I would like to thank my mother’s obstetrician for assisting in bringing me into this world”
“I would like to thank the sales assistant at Coach for helping me find that impossible clutch to match my shoes for this evening”
“I would like to thank Jesus, The Blessed Mother, all the Angels and Saints..and especially Sr. Mary Clairvaux, my favorite teacher of all time. Her well-written plays inspired me”
The jewels! The Gowns! The hair do’s and don’ts! The makeup! The whitest of white teeth! The shoes! It’s heavenly! Ahh…The Red Carpet!
My vote for best dressed woman this year? Laura Dern. Everything about her gown is perfect. I love the bling—it’s classy bling, not vulgar. Even though it’s strapless, it fits her beautifully. That is a gown I would want in my closet!
Best look of the evening. I love her hair too–that Veronica Lake look it so fetching!
Rosamund Pike came in a close second. That dress is amazing..and she has pretty enough feet to carry off those thinly strapped shoes. Did you ever notice that a great many celebrities insist on wearing strappy shoes and their feet are just so ugly? Rosamond Pike did a perfect look from head to toe. Literally!
Note the feet! They are stunning! I swear this look is beautiful from head to toes!
I loved Marion Cottiard’s gown too—Christian Dior Couture. I’ll admit, the back of the dress was unique, but nevertheless, I thought the dress looked fantastic on her!
I’m digging this dress, but her makeup is impeccable!
Felicity Jones looked like a princess! Some thought the gown was too prom-ish, I thought it was adorable.
Despite what critics thought, I thought she looked great!
I also loved Julianne Moore’s look. She is incredible for 55! She’s got such a delicate beauty!
Her hair and her eyes! WOW!
What happened to ScarJo? She has the BEST body on earth. Why did she wear that thing around her neck? Listen–I have a serious case of turkey neck and even I wouldn’t wear that monstrosity! Her hairdo too–WHAT??? Geez, she’s a blonde bombshell, what is she thinking with that hair don’t?
The dress by itself would have been fine–but that thing around her neck… and..
that hair don’t. Why? ScarJo. Why?
Note to J.Lo: It’s time to change up your look honey, the milk duds are sagging. You need to push them up and use a different neckline. Also, as beautiful as you are in your caramel colored frocks–it’s time to bring some color into the mix. Lastly, do ya think you can smile for once and show your teeth? You’ve had that same facial expression in every publicity picture for 20 years now. Let it go!
Boring! Same old same old. Let’s get a new look!
Which British actor or actress will win this year? We all know very well that The Academy has a jones for British accents. Hmmm. Are the BAFTA’s jonesing for American accents as well?
Which actor/actress playing someone with a disease will win? Diseases are always a shoe-in for Oscar. The moment I saw the trailer for “The Theory of Everything”, I knew immediately that Eddie Redmayne would win.
Even though I was rooting for Bradley Cooper, Redmayne was so adorable and genuine when he won that Oscar! He’s a good actor!
As soon as I heard “Still Alice” was about the dreaded Alzheimer’s and Julianne Moore was starring as Alice, I sighed “Finally, she’s gonna win this year”!
FINALLY!!!!!
My personal choice for best actor was Bradley Cooper—and once again, he failed to win. Don’t worry Bradley, your day will come. Find a script with a leading actor that has a major disease and you’ll be a shoe-in!
Your day will come!!!
My predictions for J. K. Simmons in Whiplash and Patricia Arquette were spot on. Both were amazing in the roles they played.
Who knew the “Farmer’s Insurance” guy was so angry?
I especially loved Arquette’s portrayal of a divorced mom. I felt her pain—all of us divorced women can feel the pathos, pain and poignancy that went into that character.
A well-deserved win!
The biggest disappointment was the loss of “Boyhood” as best picture and Richard Linklater as best director. Really??? Linklater went completely out of the box to film this masterpiece in a 12-year span. It was an incredible film.
One of the best films of all time. Period!
Instead………
“Birdman”—a narcissistic “I’m-an-ACTOR!!!” film won instead. The French have a saying: “Regarder son nombril”. What it basically means is to look at your bellybutton, i.e. you can only see yourself. That’s the tone of Birdman—and it won because Hollywood actors and actresses, in all their narcissistic glory, just adore a film about them and their craft.
Ugh. Just. Ugh!
Why would these people not vote for a film about a boy’s life spanning the years of childhood to young adulthood, or about an American Hero who fought for our Country, or a great little film about the relationship between a gifted student and an abusive teacher?
Patricia Arquette used her win as a platform for equal pay for women.While I agree with her, I just find it so ironic that she has millions and cannot really relate to the normal woman who is bypassed for equal pay at a regular office job. I howled with laughter watching Meryl Streep and J.Lo with the “you go girl” action!
Whatja really rooting for?
Were they that enthusiastic about supporting the average woman—or was it because they want a few million more for each film they make? By the way, I do LOVE Arquette for being completely natural and not having any fillers needled into her face—she is a fine example of a woman who is aging extremely gracefully.
Arquette gets kudos for aging gracefully and naturally!
I’m also compelled to wonder why nobody was choked up at the song Glen Campbell wrote, but was unable to perform. “I’m Not Gonna Miss You”, is such a moving and sad song partially written by this performer about Alzheimer’s with Alzheimers. It didn’t even warrant a standing ovation?
If you ask me, Campbell’s song was more of a tearjerker than “Glory” was—but “Glory” was about race. Don’t get me wrong—”Glory” is a great song—and Legend and Common are incredibly talented guys, but so is Campbell—I do believe Campbell deserves respect as well.
Talented and cute too! Glorious win!
But…the BEST musical moment of all was Lady Gaga’s tribute to “The Sound of Music”. WOW squared! I never knew Gaga had such a well-trained voice. I think she may have changed the dynamics of her career last night. Broadway will soon have a new shining star in the name of “Gaga”.
Madge can’t hold a candle to Gaga!
I cried too!
She is an incredible talent. I loved the hug between her and Julie Andrews!! That was my “You go girl” moment!
I’m still trying to process why the creators of “Selma” as well as some of its actors were having a hissy fit by saying “Selma” was snubbed it was up for best picture and the song “Glory” won. Seriously—can someone explain this to me?
The Oscars should be about the movies and entertainment. Diversity shouldn’t be a part of it. Do we complain that the BET awards don’t showcase various races? Do we complain that the BAFTA’s don’t include enough Americans? Is the reason we don’t televise the “Caesars” because those French film makers don’t include enough EU’s or Americans or anyone else? Time to “Quitcherbellyachin” everyone!
We all have movies we love and are overlooked. We all get upset because our favorite actor, actress, or movie didn’t win or wasn’t nominated. That’s the way it goes.
Run Bradley, Run! Run to get a script that’ll put you in the lead for an Oscar next year!!!
Well—just as I predicted, the Oscars didn’t disappoint in politics, race, or narcissism! It’s all in good fun!
In honor of the Oscars–Sly and the Family Stone “Everybody Is A Star”
When an invite comes through the regular mail I get so excited! I’m honored that someone would actually want me at their party or soiree! It’s such a pleasure.
My delusional self sees this as an invite to a party!
A few weeks ago I received a letter from the PA Career Link inviting me mandating me to attend a career workshop given by the State of Pennsylvania. It was a bit on the passive/aggressive side though. I was welcomed with “Congratulations” and further down in the letter of invitation was “mandated” to attend. Anyway, I received this “random” letter because the State of PA figured me to be one of the most unemployable persons out there.
It means the powers that be saw my birth date. I’m too old to be quickly rehired!
I also pondered about what to wear. I did make a phone call to the unemployment office the other day to inquire about the dress code. Should I wear business casual? A suit? Conservative dress? The person on the other end of the line thought I was nuts. I was told to dress as though I was going to the mall.
A good casual look for unemployment–don’t you think?
Too sloppy. I MISSED a spot with the iron. Won’t do. I need something….
….to finish the look off. The Schoolboy blazer works wonders!
I ended up going with a J. Crew white shirt and Gigi Pants and my black and brown boots, but somehow it didn’t look right until I threw a black J. Crew Schoolboy blazer on to appear more polished.
Hiding that turkey neck may allow me to appear a bit younger? NAH!!!
Those scarfs to hide my turkey neck keep getting higher and higher–soon they’ll hide my face!
Honestly, any sarcastic thoughts I had about the Career Link session were thrown out to the wind.
I enjoyed this place so much that I cannot wait to return for additional sessions and training! Hmmm…maybe they will hire me????
When I arrived and checked in, the receptionist was so incredibly nice. He was pleasant and empathetic, took down all my information with a smile and told me to take a seat. The efficiency and timeliness was amazing. No sooner had I made myself comfy, when I had to pick up my stuff and head into another room for the career session. The woman who led the session was so animated and interesting and informative. There was no judging at all. There was not one moment where I wanted to doze off either!
I’m not gonna bore you with the deets, but this was a great and informative two hours! We all chuckled at the “random” letter we all received because the room could have been dubbed “Fifty Shades of Gray”—yeah, we were all around that “certain age”. We were offered various training sessions—I even signed up for an Advanced Excel class (god, how I despise pivot tables!). I think I signed up for every available class they offer! So I thank you, State of Pennsylvania for putting the “fun” in my unemployment—Fun-employment, if you will!
I’m making my version of the Momofuku Milk Bar Cookbook’s Chocolate Malt Cake. I use this cookbook for making desserts that I seriously need another copy.
My favorite dessert cookbook. I’m also a Momofuker stalker-I’m surprised I’m not banned from their Facebook page!
Look at how messed up the pages are—I use it that much.
Time for a replacement book–don’t you think?
I’m adding a link from the Epicurious Site for the recipe. It’s really good because it gives realistic prep times.
This is an overnight recipe. It pays to make the cake the day before you plan to eat it. Also, assembling the cake a good many hours before devouring helps as well! The recipe also calls for charred marshmallows, but last time I made the cake I almost burned the house down. My torch ran out of juice, and I placed the tiny marshmallows that the recipe called for under the broiler too long.
Instead, I’m making a cream cheese Marshmallow Fluff frosting. Besides, the leftover fluff will come in handy when I crave a Fluffernutter sandwich!
A great substitute if you don’t want to char marshmallows and burn the house down!
Here’s how I made the frosting: I took one 8 oz. package of room-temperature cream cheese, half a box of confectioner’s sugar and about 3/4 cup of Fluff, placed them into my Kitchen Aid mixer and mixed, not whipped, on high for about 3 minutes. Then I placed in the fridge until I was ready to assembly the cake.
Oh…I also added “Milk Crumb” to the “Malted Milk Crumb” as well:
Listen—I make no apologies for being one of the messiest bakers and cooks on earth. I cannot help it. I get cocoa all over me—to the point where I just mix it with water and spread it on my legs to make them look tanned—I’d save a fortune on fake tanner! Confectioner’s sugar and flour leave clouds in my kitchen so dense you would think you were on an airplane. Snotty egg drippings make their way to my counter and splatters practically make designs of abstract art on my walls. And…my little Chippy loiters around to grab used paper towels and eat them. Look at this mess he creates!
Chippy grabs and eats the paper towels and……
What he doesn’t eat, he leaves a trail on my kitchen floor and good rug. He takes his toys out of his basket and leaves them all over too. Then when I scold him (as if he is human), he gives me this look…………….
……..like “..and your point”?????????
But I cannot resist those eyes!
It doesn’t matter, though, because my OCD kicks in a bit later and I’ll take the toothpicks out for some expert cleaning.
In the oven
Cooling off
making the layers with a 6 inch ring
Ring and Acetate
First layer with fudge and fluff
Another view
Layers completed
Topped with Crumb and into the Fridge!
After the cake assembly was completed I had a chance to peruse the new J. Crew catalog. Be still my heart—job or no job, I must have these pointy-toed metallic shoes.
These shoes are calling my name!
They will be mine. Oh hell yes. These will be mine.
J. Crew and Jenna Lyons are also redeeming themselves. Look at this page from the latest catalogue. 50+. I love it.
The Redemption of The Crew. I LOVE the model too!
This page is practically right out of my closet. And check it out—those metallic shoes I am lemming for!
Well, the rest of the weekend will be a “Mommy and Me”. Oona is coming in from NYC and we’re gonna have some shopping and Oscar fun! I’ll also be spending quite a bit of my Sunday doing her laundry and ironing her wrinkled clothing. I can’t wait!
Wait! Before I go. Remember the bookcase I told you we ordered? Here it is! Now we need a twin so I have to wait till Vintage Home gets another shipment!
Looks great–doesn’t it? It’s in the downstairs family room!
Gotta go and get ready to drive to the train stay to pick my bay-bay up!
Here’s a little ditty about work and funemployment!
With no thanks to being unemployed, I’m becoming lazier and lazier upon awakening each morning. I’m telling you it’s a chore just to get out of bed to empty my bladder. I’m thinking of visiting a medical supply store for a sterling silver stainless steel bed pan.
Excuse me sir, but does this come in Sterling silver?
Oh. Wait a minute– I’ll have to empty and sterilize it and that would be too much work. Bonaparte also adds to my laziness by making my morning coffee and bringing it upstairs for me to savor while I’m in bed! He’s an enabler.“More fake sugar please”!
I grabbed the remote and turned on the local news. The local Philly news anchors and reporters are quickly becoming my delusional BFF’s.
I’m almost an equal opportunist for local news–but no Fox in my house!
No particular station being a favorite (caveat. I refuse to watch Fox news)—I’m a notorious channel surfer. Trust me; it isn’t about the news that they report being why I love them. (Exception-Jim Donovan’s consumer reports. He rocks it!) It’s because they are so energetic at dawn’s early light—kind of like the way I used to be when I was employed. I’m practically a stalker. I’m so jealous of the head of hair that Jim Donovan has. Every time I see him I secretly whisper “Why can’t YOU lose your hair instead of me?”
They may be on competing stations, buy, by golly they are MY delusional BFF’s!
Anyway, my eyes really widened when my delusional early morning best friend, Tamala Edwards an anchor on Action News, had an item about the “Queen Bey”. Beyoncé. Someone leaked “untouched” photos from a L’Oreal shoot. My adrenaline really pumped up with that news–and I nearly spilled my coffee all over my comfy princess quarters bed!
Beyoncé looks …..normal!!
What is the matter with this picture? Nothing!
Or this one–maybe the eye shadow needs to be blended more but she looks fine!
Apparently the pics have caused quite a stir and have been deleted from one of her fan websites. I wonder why though? We need more photographs like this. It’s a twofold reason.
Personally, she looks better in the untouched photos than in this one. Her skin is freakishly smooth. NONE of us have skin like that!
First because people need to know that cosmetics should be used to “enhance” what we already got. Cosmetics are NOT going to transform a 60 year old woman into a woman decades younger. Come on—you think with a mug like mine I’m naturally beautiful? Secondly, NO cosmetic is going to make you look “flawless”.
Two photos. Same crappy lighting. Before, absolutely not a stitch of makeup. After, primer, foundation, blush, concealer, eye brow powder, mascara, eye shadow and eyeliner. It may take a village for some, but for me it takes an entire cosmetics company!
I’ve written about “full coverage” foundations and there is no such thing as full coverage unless you go to a hardware store, purchase spackle, apply it to your face and then apply the make up over it.
I just may start using this on my face!
We need truth in advertising!
Secondly—Beyoncé is still beautiful with normal girly skin. We all get little bumps. We all have uneven skin. What. Is. The. Big. Deal??????
I’m also curious incredibly nosey to see what Beyoncé has to say about those untouched photos for L’Oreal—simply because she’s posted plenty of untouched selfies—and these two are flawless.
A master of selfies–she knows her good lighting!
It’s the filtering and the lighting. Trust me, I’m a shameless “Selfiest” and it takes tons of selfies to get one decent one. (Now you know my secret for my “decent” pics)
Another favorite untouched photo of the moment is this one of Cindy Crawford. She’s going to be 49 tomorrow! 49!!!!
This is the most amazing pic–and I hope everyone out there loves it!
I love the fact that this photo shows that a supermodel has some ripples to her belly and thighs. She’s still not your average older woman, but this picture paints a very realistic view of what the ageing process does to a woman’s body! Seeing Crawford as humanly possible as in this photo should make all women feel better about themselves. I honestly think a photo like this is so much better for our personal body image than to see a body that has been retouched and photo shopped to the point of seemingly having a body smoother than a Barbie doll’s.
I’ve always loved Cindy Crawford’s looks anyway.
Lovin’ that messy hair look!
For a supermodel she’s always been very “girl-next-door” looking but with a edge. She looks slightly “Walk-of-Shame”—in a kind of Angie Dickenson and Bardot way. You know, in a slightly messy-hair, just a tad unkempt look.
Actually, that infamous saunter should be called “Walk-of-Shameless”. Guys can brag about a conquest whilst a lady has to return from a night of bouncy-bouncy as if she was naughty? More power to those naughty girls and the girls who look like they’ve enjoyed an evening of physical exercise! Hey, I’m just telling it like it is!Might I add, Angie looks fabulous in this pic. At 84 years young, she’s still hot!
Seriously—as an old lady makeup junkie, I’ve taken many a mascara ad seriously and I have the tubes to prove it.
No mascara is going to have your lashes looking like this! We need realistic ads!
I’ve seen ads of lips, beautifully photographed with the perfect color, shine and plumpness—with a promise to stay put on my mouth for 12 hours—I believe the timing is more like 12 minutes!
Promises and statements telling me I’ll be flawless. It’s not going to happen. The makeup and all products beauty will still be purchased—and used. Why can’t the cosmetics companies just be upfront and honest?
Seeing those untouched photos is a breath of fresh air—and instead of untouched photos of Crawford and Mrs. Carters’ being “leaked”—they should be celebrated!
Let’s keep it real!
Let’s celebrate with Aretha singing “Natural Woman”—shall we?
Can we talk about dresses today? Enough already with the boots, the socks under the boots, the jeans, the belt, the shirt, the sweater, the scarf. Add to that, a heavy coat or jacket—which can be so cumbersome when driving. Right??? Hats, gloves, scarfs.
I’m tired of this many clothes!
I feel like Ralphie’s little brother from “A Christmas Story”.
Winter weather’s cold.
Its damp and it depresses.
I want the warmer weather here
So I can wear my dresses!
I love wearing dresses in the warmer weather. Even running errands and when I’m out and about, wearing a dress is so much more comfortable than fussing with shirttails inching their way out of skirt and pant waists. Dresses don’t cause as much sweat—especially in the lady parts areas, if you catch my drift.
Don’t get me wrong, I still love wearing separates, but I love “one-stop” dressing even more. I’m lazy by nature and throwing an easy frock over my head is more convenient. Plus, I like the simplicity of a dress when I’m at a wedding or a party where I’m going to be dancing and enjoying beverages all night!
It is also my belief that as we get older, it’s harder to find a really, really, decent dress. Dresses are either so short that one false move or bending over to low will have some creepy man approaching you with a wink and a $50.00 bill.
Her dress is just too short–and those stockings! Ugh!
Or—they are so long that that you look like you are ready to join a convent—or become a member of some sort of modesty cult.
The Sisters of Mercy in the old-school habit. Wayyyy too much dress! It still surprises me how scary their habits were–and I had to look at that habit every day until the Vatican changed those nun-dress codes!
It’s hard to find that perfect length.
Another pet peeve—the online catalogues from Department stores. Nordstrom, in particular, drives me nuts. Believe me, Nordies is one of my favorite stores, but I despise the fact that their dresses are modeled by 20-somethings—it’s almost as though they are categorizing the dresses as for young women only—they need older women in these ads.
That being said, I took it upon myself to do some dress critiquing on what I feel can befit we “older women”. Listen. I’m an “atypical” woman in a very normal body—I’m not thin nor am I obese. I’ve got a belly; I’ve got hips and thighs that jiggle. My upper arms are flabby, but I still try to keep it simple when I’m in a dress. So here goes:
This dress is perfect. It’s from Nordstrom–notice how young the model is, but this is a great dress for every woman of every age. I’m allowing length because the models are so tall, so on a normal woman add two inches to the length. The cut is great because there is no defined waist–and as we become wider in the middle, this shape is just so flattering. I may head to Nordstrom this weekend to try it and maybe buy it!
This dress is from the J.C. Penney online site. I LOVE this dress. It’s a sheath, but it’s fitted and if you look more closely, the shape is a bit more defined under the bust creating a bit of lift–look at the length too. It really is a flattering dress for women of all mature ages.
Also from the J.C. Penney site. While I love the cut of the dress–again, without a defined waistline, the only thing I am unsure of are the way the armholes are cut. It looks like a very subtle capped sleeve–which I think is the most horrific and unflattering sleeve of all time. If I purchased this dress, I would take it to a tailor to bring the top of the “sleeve” in to look more like the dress in the middle pic.
Two more I really love:
Two more from Nordstrom. I’m usually not a fan of lace, but this dress is so pretty–and it comes in many colors–the lace over the tan is beautiful. It’s a body-hugging dress but not tight–the fit is really pretty but the cut of the dress is so simple and flattering.
The dress on the right is great for we older women. The cut is very forgiving and flattering. The length is perfect and so is the length of the sleeves.
The dresses below are on the fence- I’ll explain:
The dress on the left is from J. Crew. While I love the color and the upper section of the dress, I cannot stand that defined waist. Why? Dresses with defined waists seem to all be made with a high waist. The waist usually falls longer than an empire, but higher than your natural waist. I think if you are short-waisted, it works, but if you have a long torso, dresses like this just look weird. I’m amazed at how these dresses always fit 6-foot tall models perfectly, but on those of us who are 5 feet and change, the waist is always way too high.
Middle dress. For the incredibly toned woman up to 100 years old, this is a great dress. I do like this dress so much, but it is too long. It falls below the knee at an awkward spot. Also, the short sleeves could be a bit longer. From Nordstrom.
Dress on the right. J.C. Penney site. Actually, I really like this dress–but it is only available in gold. It could look “cheap” IRL. This would be a fantastic LBD though. I love the neckline and that deep cut armhole. I’m amazed that this dress is not available in other colors.
No-no dresses:
This monstrosity is from J. Crew and I think J. Crew is losin’ it! There is absolutely nothing flattering about this dress at all. The fit on the top is so baggy–it’s a mess!
If this dress didn’t have those hideous lace-only capped sleeves it would be as bad as it is. This dress is just too fussy. It may have been better if it was just one color. Looks a bit on the cheap side.
This is a tricky dress. Again, the waist–I don’t think it’s a good dress for women who may be experiencing the typical “middle aged spread”–it can look sloppy. Also, the skirt of the dress can look more like a tent on a woman with hips. Just not crazy about this. Not a fan of that sheer fabric overlay either.
That being said, here’s a few dresses from my closet. I try to dress for my body so here goes:
This is my favorite “work” dress. It’s from J. Crew and I purchased it over a year ago. I love the fit, it isn’t a defined waist and actually has an additional drop waist. I love the true “short” sleeves and the neckline and I love the white trim. There is a good amount of stretch to it so if I gain a few pounds, it still fits.
Here’s another fave from last year. Lilly Pulitzer knit shift. The print is very forgiving so I don’t have to wear shapewear. I love me some knits–they stretch with my body! The 3/4 length sleeve is also a favorite of mine. The length is short but I can still bend over without getting into any trouble. It’s also very versatile. I can wear it to work and out and about!
I. Stinking. LOVE. This. Dress!! Geez–lets’ see, I’ve had it for about 8 years now! Seriously! It’s by Tiana B and I found it at TJ Maxx for $19.99. I’ve worn it to weddings, fancy parties, dinner dates and funerals (with black tights). It travels so well that I’ve taken it with me on several trips to France. It’s fit me on fat years, thin years and normal weight years. It’s a true shift but the fabric lays so well that there is no boxiness. I also wanted to give a view of the hem. It’s satin. There is also satin around the sleeve hem–at 3/4 length the perfect sleeve. Honestly, this is the best dress Tiana B has ever produced. Oh. I’ve also washed this a ton of times and it still looks great. Best. Dress. Ever. I swear it’s so great when you find a dress that you end up having for years and years and years. It’s also seasonless. Isn’t that great???
Last is this sleeveless knit I got a Loft for $40.00. This is another great dress. I wore it to work a lot and wear it on interviews. The length is wonderful because I can sit very comfortably without constantly tugging it down. I love the fit and again, it’s very versatile. I would definitely wear this to a fancy party too!
Well, I hope you liked my dress critique. I’m no pro or expert but we don’t have to dress like a bunch of frumps! However, I DID find a GREAT article about dressing for we women over 50. It’s so good I have to share: Daily Mail Clothing Article Honestly, this article is so great I bookmarked it!
Hey. I had my hair washed and blown out today. I treated myself because I have a “final” interview tomorrow–I want to impress. Adam from Bleu Mousse Salon always does a bang-up job following my natural waves! I also took a “before” pic. My hair was so filthy but I like it dirty because I can make it look all “girl-singer-1960’s” teased and in a pony. Whadya think?
Before–channeling the 1960’s. After–Thanks to Adam, my hair is clean and pretty!
Well, I’ve gotta go and count some points. My Lenten Weight Watchers diet is calling!
Have a great evening! I’ll be hanging with my Mob Wives!! XOXOXOXOXO!
And since we’re talking about dresses–here’s Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels singing “Devil With The Blue Dress”.
A part of my childhood died yesterday when I heard the news of Lesley Gore’s passing. In the early to mid-sixties, I loved listening to her woes of teenaged angst and boys. Her songs prepared me and taught me what I would need to be aware of when I reached those sensitive years of the age of “teen”.
Gore’s songs also remind me of a time when I, and I’m sure most of you, had no worries in the world. We were innocent and carefree. Mortgages and bills and worrying about our health weren’t a part of our universe. We were protected and taken care of.
Our priorities besides homework and studying for tests were making sure we got to watch Saturday morning cartoons, being outside all day without our mothers worrying that someone would kidnap us, candy bars that cost a nickel, and for those of us who lived in urban areas, playing stoop ball and running recklessly through alleyways.
When I hear Lesley Gore’s voice it brings me back to the happiest days of my childhood. Those summer weeks spent in Ozone Park, Queens at my Grandparent’s and my favorite aunt, Terry’s home. It’s funny, most people have fond memories of beach vacations but mine were of returning to the NYC limits. (It’s also very weird that I’m crying as I write this. The tears are shared between Gore’s passing and the passing of my youth).
I can close my eyes and visualize the four teenaged Cook sisters who lived next door from my Grandparents.
Old School Pop Radio Icons–YMCA’s Good Guys, Murray the K, Cousin Brucie–Lesley Gore could be heard on all the great stations!
There was no one else like her–that voice was so distinct! That hair–perfect!!
In the late afternoons they would hang out on the stoop, tight ankle pants, hair teased, and listening to “Murray the K” and the WMCA “Good Guys” spinning Lesley’s’ “Maybe I Know” and “It’s My Party” among the rest of those wondrous oldies. I would look at those Cook girls with great admiration. I couldn’t wait to wear my hair teased in a beehive or a lacquered flip just like Lesley and the Cook girls! I couldn’t wait to have a boyfriend–even if having one meant suffering the angst that Lesley Gore sang about!
Am I the only one who looks back bittersweetly upon these hairdos–check out Dusty Springfield on the far right! Another great girl singer that we lost too soon!
Lesley Gore also makes me think of being in my Aunt Terry’s car, picking up her girlfriends and driving to Rockaway beach while Gore’s voice, so familiar, was heard full blast from both radio cars and transistors placed strategically on beach blankets so as not to get sandy. Instead, the sand would find its way to the sandwiches that my Grandmother made for us. Butter softened from the sun on white bread, slices of ham now warmed and sand scratching my teeth. But it didn’t matter—the summer fun was more important.
Ever since I saw Lesley Gore in this outfit, I’ve always loved the turtleneck and those sixties stretch pants with the stirrups! I still love the look!
Thank you Lesley, for all the memories that your songs have given me. Each time I hear you, I will always think of those summers of my youth! May you rest in eternal peace and bestow heavenly Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows upon us all!
So Fat Tuesday is here and Lent starts tomorrow. I’ve baked a Galette des Rois, French King Cake, for Monsieur Bonaparte!
It’s pretty easy to make. Puff pastry and a Frangipane filling. Here’s a link to the recipe:
Ingredients: Puff Pastry, Almond Paste, Sugar, Eggs, Almond flour,Butter, (I didn’t use almond extract, but used Vanilla. I also didn’t put the bean into the cake either–Bonaparte’s teeth are very mature–I don’t want a trip to the dentist!
Puff pastry sheet from Wegman’s–let it thaw, then divide into two squares. Flour your surface and with a rolling pin, roll each square out to about 12 inches. The trace a circle with a knife and put back into the fridge–covered with parchment.
To make the Frangipane filling, soften a stick of butter, place the softened butter and almond paste in a mixer and blend well, add the sugar and blend well, add the almond meal and blend well, add the eggs and blend well. It’ll look like this:
Frangipane filling.
I chilled the filling for about a half hour. Then I took the two circles of puff pastry out of the fridge. I placed on circle on parchment on a cookie sheet. I brushed a one-inch perimeter on the edges with egg wash and placed the filling on that circle of pastry. Topped it with the other circle of puff pastry, crimped the edges, gave the top an egg wash and baked it!
Galette in the Oven!
Galette des Rois-King Cake for my King!
Back in the day, when I was a young Catholic school girl, Lent was a big deal. Honest to god, I actually gave up sugar when I was ten and ever since then, I’ve never had sugar in my tea. I’ve made up for it in other ways though. Being deeply shallow, I figure I’ll revisit those days when I was a very pious individual. I think I’ll give up ALL sweets and sugar along with NO in between meals at all. Over the next 40 days, I could lose a good 10 pounds if I stick to it. I won’t give in to temptation either. Except on Sunday! Oh yeah, and except today. I’ll just enjoy the galette too!
Two songs from Miss Lesley Gore today! “Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows”…..and the great “Maybe I Know”. Thank you Lesley. You are already missed!
Don’t you wish this winter would end already? I’m tired of the tundra-esque weather. Most of all, I’m done with just wanting to do nothing more than eat and sleep. It’s awful!
Sorry Chippy. I love you but it’s just too cold!
I should be outside walking Chippy around the neighborhood and taking him to the dog park. Instead, I’m lazing around channel surfing and walking into the kitchen to get both Chippy and me a snack. Over Christmas I was so sick with a stomach flu that I lost weight and felt great. I gained it all back and more.
Luckily, I found some of my Weight Watchers information—I need to start tracking and going back on program and counting those points!
I’ll start tracking after I finish off that chunk of brie that’s in the fridge!
The muffin top is turning into a cake top-a sheet cake top to be exact! Am I right? Hasn’t this winter made you want to suck up food like a Hoover vacuum cleaner?
While watching “Good Morning America” today, I was inspired by Lara Spencer’s eye makeup. She had some seriously darkish—almost black shadow. It looked great on her! I decided to use some seriously darkish eye shadow on my eyes too. Some time ago, I purchased Bare Minerals eye shadow in “Bon Bon”.
Bare Minerals “Bon-Bon”. It’s a nice dark shadow.
It’s a black shadow. It seemed like a good purchase at the time, but sat in a drawer. Until today. First of all, when I apply a dark shadow, I “blow” on the shadow-laden brush before applying to my lids. I find this is a good way to guard off “fall out” from the shadow. When I do apply the shadow, I “stipple” it on rather than stroke it on. A light stipple is a more gentle way to apply to those “mature lady’ crêpey eyelids! After stippling, I gently blend with a fluffier brush.
I’m really liking this eye shadow.
I really liked the result. What do you think?
I had to finally part ways with my Tarte and Lancôme mascaras. There was nothing left in either tube. I didn’t feel like fooling around with the Lash extension kit either because my plan wasn’t to go anywhere or do anything special—my plan was to just slob around! Thank god I’m a makeup junkie because I “found” this brand new tube of Too-Faced Size Queen mascara.
I figured now was a good time to use it. This mascara has the biggest brush on any wand I’ve ever seen in my life—and I’ve been around enough to say I’ve seen my fair share! I swear you could cut the stick of the want off and use the brush as a Christmas tree—it’s that big!
One big mother of a wand!
The oversized brush is cumbersome and difficult to work with. Overall, the mascara itself is a decent product.
The mascara brush is ridiculous!
See the outside lashes? I don’t see them either! The mascara brush was too large to reach!
Look at the picture. Some of my lashes have no mascara. It’s due to that ridiculous brush. The brush is just too gimmicky. Time to repurchase the Tarte “Lights, Camera, Lashes’ mascara or the Lancôme “Definicils” mascara.
Speaking of Tarte cosmetics, I decided to use Tarte’s “12 Hour Amazon Clay” foundation today. Comes in a tube and the product is somewhat on the thick side–almost like a paste.
I’ve used this during last summer, during those hot and humid days—the kind of day when your skin glistens from sweat and the foundation worked. My “summer” skin is also darker from the amount of time I spend out of doors too and I don’t look for a full coverage during the warmer weather either. My skin must have changed a lot in the past few months from aging or hormonal changes. This is just not a good “winter” foundation for me. Over the years, my freckled face is now sporting age spots and my complexion has gotten ruddier. Full coverage is what I seek in cooler weather and want full coverage without the foundation looking pasty or cakey.
First pic no makeup freckles and spots. Applying with brush. Last pic, covered some but not full.
This didn’t give me full coverage and it just made my face look drier and more wrinkly. In all honesty, I don’t even think I’ll keep this for the coming summer. I’ll just stick to the Makeup Forever HD foundation—it’s a product I keep going back to.
Eeking out the small remainder of Too-Faced “Sweet Pea” blush on my cheeks and some lipstick and clear gloss I’m ready to sit around and watch TV for the rest of the afternoon!
All made up–but check out my skin. The foundation really looks dry and cakey. I’m happy with the eyes and lips though!
It’s just THAT kind of day. I’m lucky I took a bath and shaved my legs this morning—trust me, it took effort!
So about that much-hyped Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Special that was televised last night….and that “SNL Red Carpet Special” – I thought I was watching an awards show!
It’s sometimes hard for me to actually process that I was only 20 years old when I saw that first SNL show in October of 1975. George Carlin was the first guest host, and the show was definitely something completely different. The original cast—”The Not Ready for Prime Time Players” was a more intimate ensemble cast than the larger ones of today.
THE greatest SNL cast of all time. Hands down!
The cast was edgier and, well, they were more unique looking than the more recent cast members. There was a more natural presence about the original cast as well. Chevy Chase and Jane Curtain were the preppy, WASPY personalities. Laraine Newman and Gilda Radner were the kooky, skinny girls with the unmanageable hair. Garret Morris was the more “grounded” and mature member of the group. John Belushi was the pudgy, loveable, goofy, totally crazy one who would do anything for a laugh and Dan Akyroyd was the best gift that Canada ever bestowed upon us! His voice alone was a treasure! Together this cast created magic! With the addition of Bill Murray, the cast came full circle with their many characters!
Who wouldn’t forget Dan Akyroyd’s sleazy cable TV host E. Buzz Miller, and his guest hostess Christy Christina played by Larraine Newman.
E. Buzz Miller–one of the greatest and funniest characters!
Akyroyd’s Julia Child and the infamous “Plumber’s Crack” were epic.
Connie Conehead–that impossible teen!
How about the Coneheads on Family Feud?
What about Baba Wawa or John Belushi’s greatness as Beethoven? Jane Curtain–the original Newswoman? Bill Murray’s Nick Summers/Winters still cracks me up.
Chevy Chase’s consistent clumsiness and Land Shark–Garret Morris screaming out news for the deal. Lisa and Todd. Too many great skits and characters to list!
Nothing will ever equal the original cast.
Other memorable cast members included Will Ferrell, Cheri Oteri (in my opinion, one of THE most talented women ever on SNL—she wrote as well as she acted), Jim Breuer, Phil Hartman, Denny Dillon, Rachel Dratch, Ellen Cleghorne, Jimmy Fallon, Bill Heder, Adam Sandler…the list goes on…
The Anniversary special just fell short on so many levels. First of all, what was with all the “filler” moments—the moments of introduction? The powers-that-be should have just focused on memorable skits and perhaps added voice overs or interviews with the performers. The show came off as nothing more than a bunch of actors telling each other how great they are. Chris Rock giving a too-long testimonial for Eddie Murphy…and Murphy coming out on stage and doing nothing more than applauding himself? REALLY??? Murphy did have great characters, among them his incredibly funny James Brown—but Chris Rock is funnier!
The best of the introductions, however, was Martin Short and Maya Rudolph as “Beyoncé”. It was truly funny, but went on too long.
One of the highlights
Another truly funny moment was the “Celebrity Jeopardy” skit. The rest of the “live” skits just went downhill. We would have been better off had “The Californians” had been cut down considerably–perhaps with just Bradley Cooper and Betty White it would have been better! Props for having a kissing scene with 93 year-old hotness Ms. White!
SNL needs older talent! White and Cooper-a great match up!
Another thing I could have done without was the musical guests. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sir Paul. But the overextended version of “Maybe I’m Amazed” took time away from skits that could have been televised. Don’t even get me started on Kanye West. He *cough* *cough* “sang” that song where god spoke to him. Well, guess what? God spoke to me too and told me that Kanye West had no place being on that SNL special. SNL should have a separate special dedicated to the musicians that appeared on the show over the years—I’m sorry but the time wasted could have been better spend giving us the actual skits and perhaps the stories behind them.
Trust me; I’m validated in my disappointment. I am of the original SNL generation. Everyone would watch the show and on Mondays at the office, the water cooler conversation was always centered on one of the SNL skits, or how politically incorrect and funny they were. We all did our imitations of those “Wild and Crazy Guys” “Rosanne Roseannadanna”, “The Coneheads”. “Cheeseburger, Pepsi” were two buzzwords. Now the show is nothing but skits that are so politically correct and so carefully scripted so as not to offend that SNL has lost the original edginess it was so well-known and loved for.
Perhaps I’m old now, and I don’t “get” the dopey and sophomoric comedy of today’s SNL. It isn’t witty. It isn’t funny and the writing leaves much to be desired. You may not agree with me, and that’s cool. It’s fine to agree to disagree!
I have the memories of a show that was innovative, hysterically funny, and creative. That’s all I need!
Our “Valentine’s Stay-In Dinner ” turned out great! We got some steaks from Costco. The meat at Costco never fails to be consistent in its great quality. I did a sort-of improvised “Tournados Rossini”. The steaks were bigger than the tournadoes! I made a nice Madeira sauce with mushrooms and topped the steaks off with warmed slices Foie Gras pate.
Steak with a Madeira Sauce, mushrooms and topped with Foie Gras make a great dinner!
We enjoyed this steak with a nice Chateau Margaux…and my home made macarons for dessert!
The only wine that doesn’t make me throw up or get a headache. Yummy macaron!
Too much wine on Saturday night had me a bit lazy yesterday morning. It was one of those “way-to-cold-and-windy-to-go-out”. The wind chill was close to zero. It’s better to be warm and cozy. I realized though, we had to go out to errands and possibly make a purchase of a bookshelf we had our eyes on.
At first, I wasn’t even going to be bothered to put any make up on. However we all know what that could mean. Right? I don’t want to take the chance of being called “sir” in front of my beloved Bonaparte. Remember my “Sir” Post?
I figured a light eye would be better—you know, just a bit of mascara, liner and definitely filling in those brows.
So let’s talk about brows. Oy-when I was young I had really thick eyebrows. Back then, my brows would be called “bushy”. If I had those same brows now, they would be referred to as “on trend” (BTW, I despise the phrase “on trend” almost as I despise the word “pop”! Somewhere in the 1970’s, I plucked my brows way too thin. Over plucking was a horrible mistake because they never quite grew back the same. As more time passed, my brows really thinned out—much like the rest of the hair on my head. I was left with the disappearing brows. It’s not a good look.
Thinning brows, uneven skin. Am I the only person who isn’t perfect?
That’s when the “filling in” process began. It seems that I tried every brow product known to woman. The brow pencils never seemed to work for me. Granted, the pencils are the one brow product that actually comes in the color “black”, but for some reason, penciling made my brows look too “Mommie Dearest”. Very black and falsely thick. Very drawn on. It wasn’t a good look.
This is not the look I am striving to achieve!
Then I tried, in vain, for a decent brow powder. The cosmetic companies really pissed me off with this one. There is no “black” brow powder—or if there is, it slipped by my crossed eyes! The “brunette” powder always turned orange on my brows. YBF cosmetics touted brow pencil in “taupe”, a universal color that was claimed to work well from the lightest of brows to the darkest.
A complete fail for me
Guess what. I purchased it. It didn’t work on me. My brows turned ginger–not only that, but I broke the product in the pencil by pressing to hard!
After a long search, I found an excellent brow powder—an inexpensive one at that! NYX brow powder in Black/Gray. At $6.00 it’s a steal and it comes with a bit of wax to keep those brows in place. The little spiral brush that is included is great for taming, but the brush for applying the powder is not great.
Best $6.00 spent. This is excellent. I also use the black eye shadow. This old Vera Bradley brush is the greatest for filling in the brows!
I apply with a slanted tip Vera Bradley brush I got years ago. Due to the fact the NYX brow powder in my color of choice is always out of stock, I just use a black eye shadow. It works just as well.
After I apply my foundation and a bit of concealer, I fill the brows in. I don’t know about you, but my brows are very uneven. One is arched and one is straight. I don’t even try to change that. I just fill in with the natural shape. Then I “brush” the brows with a brow brush. It seems to work for me.
I go with each brows natural shape–see, one is more arched!
What do you think? I like a filled-in brow. It changes the entire look of your face. Even on those days when I don’t want a complete “eye” look, the filled in brows looks 100 percent better.
A quick swipe of my NYC Color eyeliner in black made the lids look a bit more polished. I have a ton of these liners that I hoarded for less than two bucks each. The price has risen to $2.99—but it’s still the best value in liquid eyeliner. It’s just as good, if not better than the high-end luxury brands. I swear by this!
I also decided to put some lip color on. Matte color followed by lots of shiny gloss. Why is it that lip gloss never lasts too long? These days I’m digging a shiny look on the lips when I do take the time to put lip color on. The shininess is like an optical illusion for aged lips and just seems to plump ’em up a bit.
Within minutes the gloss is gone. I can’t stand that!
Within moments, though, the gloss seems to get on stray strands of hair that fall to my face, the lenses on my eyeglasses and on my clothing. I’m much better off with my old reliable Chapstick!
See what I mean? The gloss on the lips is gone.
Off in the car with our little rascal. He’s so happy to be out and about!
Who can resist that face?
We have been on the hunt for a bookcase for the downstairs family room. Furniture shopping can be so daunting at times. There are a lot of inferior goods out there that are marked up to the most unreasonable prices! We also need strong shelving because of the heaviness of the books.
Billy bookcase is on the far right.
We have two old “Billy” bookshelves from Ikea that Bonaparte purchased years ago. One is in the garage for storage purposes and one is in the family room. Surprisingly, they have held up well, but we both want something with more character.
We went to “The Dump”—a furniture store that claims is discounted. We spotted a couple of bookcases that were ridiculously overpriced and the construction was extremely shoddy. Honestly, I don’t know why we bother to even browse in that store.
Next it was off to a local upscale consignment shop, The Velvet Shoestring. The Velvet Shoestring Here’s a couple of things we purchased in the past from that store.
Purchases from The Velvet Shoestring
Both of us are huge fans of consignment and vintage shops. Unfortunately, our visit to Velvet Shoestring yesterday was a “miss” day.
We ended our journey at “Vintage Home”, Vintage Home in Paoli a unique furniture and home furnishings store in Paoli. The stuff here is a blend of old renovated furniture and new furniture made to look old. Here’s the book case. I can’t wait to get this baby home!
We spotted it on Saturday, but just wanted do a bit of browsing (get the tie-in “Brow”sing?) before we made a final decision! We paid $395. It was well-worth the money. I’ll post more pics when it’s delivered!
We’ve made a few purchases at “Vintage Home”. Here they are.
Our “vintage” cupboard in the kitchen, the coffee table in the sunroom, and our piece in the entry way.
I have to say, filling in my brows and filling our empty nest are ways to make a nice appearance–don’t you think?
This kind of parking is way too stressful for me. It’s backing out. I can’t see!
More girly goodies! 
And YES. I DID open the Coppertone–just to get a whiff of the scent of summer!
Already in the travel bag!
The hair looks great-but damn that turkey neck!
We both love the same floor tiles in the shower!
This dress is perfect. It’s from Nordstrom–notice how young the model is, but this is a great dress for every woman of every age. I’m allowing length because the models are so tall, so on a normal woman add two inches to the length. The cut is great because there is no defined waist–and as we become wider in the middle, this shape is just so flattering. I may head to Nordstrom this weekend to try it and maybe buy it!
