A Snow Day in DC

This is a view of my street yesterday afternoon. The snow was really coming down and I was in winter wonderland heaven! The wee morning hours brought snow which turned to rain as the morning progressed. But around 1 pm, the rain turned to sleet and by 3 pm, the temperature dropped and snow began falling. I drove to Michaels Crafts in my father-in-law's truck while it was sleeting and I spotted several spun-out cars on Interstate 66. Most commuters were driving slow, marred in a state of panic. I quickly bought a few art supplies and drove home before the traffic and/or chaos got worse.

The DC area is first in the nation (tied with Chicago) for worst traffic. Combine the intense gridlock with a wintery mix bag of precipitation and you get absolute pandemonium! My husband, who normally has an hour + drive home, was stuck in traffic for three hours!


This is the back deck last night:

I was so happy to wake up this morning and see my neighborhood coated in snow! I estimate the area got about 7+ inches! I just wish we lived in the mountains because I would be skiing in heartbeat!

Today, I worked from home and I started a painting. I am doing an atomic/abstract piece that will go in my foyer. I also ran some errands and went to the post office. Due to the icy and slushy conditions, I wore my old pair of combat boots, tights, a black Cure Tee, and a pink cardigan. I also styled my hair differently.

I normally do a middle or left part in my hair but today I did a right side part. I think I like it! My blond highlights can really be seen:

 I hope everyone is staying safe and cozy this winter!

We Have a Winner! Resin Pendant Duo Giveaway!

I would like to announce the winner of the two resin pendants giveaway!

The lucky winner is.........................Kim Bombshell of Havin' Some Rockin' Fun Blog!

I want to thank everyone who follows my blog and I especially want to thank all of you who participated in this giveaway! I will be doing another one soon!

So, congratulations, Kim! Please contact me at tara@progllc.com with your address so I can send you your new pendants! I hope you like them as much as I enjoyed making them!

Awesome Bobby Pin Find at Sally Beauty! Mini Bobby Pins!

Many of us who do vintage hairstyles often know that bobby pins (or kirby grips) are a MUST! Bobby pins are vital for pin curls, securing victory rolls, and rolling back those Bettie bangs (pompadour) on days we want a different look.

For years, I bought standard bobby pins (Goody) at the grocery store or pharmacy. These types are good for most styles but after a while, "run-of-the-mill' pins tend to snag hair or stretch out after several uses. I usually throw stretched pins out and grab a new one but again, it would stretch out and the little rubber tips on the end pop off and snag/pull my hair. In addition, my hair is very fine and standard pins have a tendency to slide out of my hair.  Also, when it comes to doing rolls and pompadours, most bobby pins tend to stick out (especially when I roll back my bangs) due to the lack of volume.

While I was in Sally Beauty yesterday buying a few things, I spotted a section of bobby pins. There were large sizes, standard sizes, and mini sizes, as seen above. I have never used mini pins and the price, $2.49 for a 36-count tin, made me to want to try them.

The MetaGrip Mini Bob Pins' description states that the pins are tighter and snag-free. Well, today I styled my hair in rolls and not only do these mini bobby pins hide nicely, they really grip my hair amazingly well! I feel like a gale force wind couldn't even ruin my 'do!

Here is how the mini pin size compares to a standard pin:

(The vintage picture is actually from a reprint of a vintage ad that I adhered and then varnished onto a mini Altoids tin. I use it to store extra pins and I keep it in my bag in case of a 'hair emergency.')

So, if you are looking for small-sized bobby pins that work wonders on fine and/or shorter hair, the MetaGrip Bob Pins from Sally Beauty are a must have in your hairstyling kit!

Re-Mix Vintage Shoes (Select Styles) Available on Endless.com

For those of you who are familiar with/wear Re-Mix Vintage shoes and those of you looking to find good quality vintage repro shoes, I wanted to let you know that Endless.com now carries select styles!

http://www.endless.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_3/189-2725843-3221404/?onsale=&showDesigner=&node=241745011&keywords=remix+vintage+shoes&sprefix=rem

Endless. com offers free two-day shipping and even free returns! I ordered a pair of the Dara wedges last year before a trip and they arrived quickly! I love Endless.com's customer service and I am so happy they now have a few Re-Mix styles online.

However, if you want to view/order from Re-Mix directly, visit here:

http://www.remixvintageshoes.com/

At this time, Re-Mix does not have an online shopping cart. You can fax or call in your order. I have ordered from them over the phone and the staff are always kind and super helpful!

I just visited the Re-Mix site and I saw these:

I really like those shoes! They are so classic 40s!!

So, if you are looking for authentic-looking vintage shoes that are amazingly well-made, then Re-Mix Vintage shoes are for you!

Oh, I almost forgot, Re-Mix has a brick and mortar shop in Los Angeles!

The Most Amazing Blond/Highlight Shampoo Ever! Clairol Shimmer Lights!

Now that I have my beloved blond highlights back, I want to share with you all one of the best highlighting shampoos ever created: Clairol Shimmer Lights Shampoo in "Blonde/Silver!"  This "holy grail" shampoo has been a mainstay in my hair care arsenal since 2008. You can find this shampoo at Sally Beauty Supply stores, online at Sally Beauty's website, www.haircareusa.com, and www.ballbeauty.com. I know other places/sites should have it on stock as well. I buy the 16 ounce bottle at Sally Beauty for $8.49 USD. The shampoo also comes in a 4 ounce bottle as well as a 32 ounce size.

This Clairol Shampoo is intended for natural and highlighted blondes who want bright, platinum tones instead of yellow. The violet color cancels out any brassiness. Right now, I have quite a bit of yellow/warmth in the lower half of my hair. Over the next couple of salon visits, these tones will be bleached out. I would love to have my hair all platinum now but doing so would be very damaging! It is best to process hair slowly. Due to the presence of these yellowy sections, I use this shampoo to brighten the platinum tones and to help fade the warmth in my blond.

In fall 2008, my stylist, Corry, colored my hair black with platinum blond on top:
After my color was done, I used Pureology Hydrate Shampoo as well as Pantene's blonde shampoo. I washed my hair with the Pantene a few times a week to help brighten/maintain my blond but its results were lackluster. Moreover, the shampoo began to dry out my hair! I needed something that would help brighten as well as condition.

When I was in Aspen, Colorado for a 5 week business trip in November 2008, I visited Carl's Pharmacy with the hopes of finding a better replacement for the Pantene shampoo. As I browsed the shelves in the hair care section, I stumbled upon "Clairol Shimmer Lights Blond and Silver Shampoo." I bought a 16 ounce bottle for 11.00 USD (gotta love that resort ski town mark-up!).

After my gym workout the next day, I washed my hair with my new shampoo. The shampoo was a super bright violet pearl shimmer that had a light, pleasant clean-scented fragrance. It had a creamy, thick lather too. I rinsed my hair, applied conditioner, and rinsed in cool water.

As I towel-dried my hair, I could already see that my hair looked more platinum. I really noticed the difference when I blow-dried my hair! Wow! Most of the remaining yellow tones were pretty much gone!

Yesterday, I used the Shimmer Lights once again and I today notice that my blond looks brighter. The yellow tones are still there but they are not as glaring. My hair also feels soft too!

So, if you have blond hair and/or highlights that need brightening, then give Clairol Shimmer Lights Blonde and Silver Shampoo a try! If you also want blond conditioning, Clairol also makes a coordinating conditioner!

Today's Hair and Outfit

Today, I have my hair in rolls again and instead of leaving the back section down, I rolled it into a roll using a hair comb (my hair is kind of dirty due to my overuse of heat spray yesterday):

I am wearing a rust-colored scoop neck, pointelle-knit sweater from Anthropologie that I bought in 2006.  My necklace is a resin piece made my me. My earrings are vintage repro that I bought in 2005 for only 10.00 USD. I am also wearing a 50s plaid wool pencil skirt, black tights, and my new TUK kitty shoes.

On my right arm, I am wearing my slowly-expanding bakelite bangle collection:

The carved butterscotch bangle on the far right is my first carved piece! I so want more now! Holly from Temperamental Broad has an amazing collection of bakelite bangles! Oh, what a dream it would be to have bangles like these:

http://temperamentalbroad.blogspot.com/2011/01/outfit-post.html

So, on this cold winter day what are you wearing?

Just a Quick Reminder! -Resin Pendant Duo Giveaway Ends Tomorrow (25 January)

 
Hello, all! I hope everyone is well! This is just a quick reminder that my resin pendant duo giveaway ends tomorrow, Tuesday the 25th of January! You have all day to leave a comment and enter! The lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday morning! I hope more join in on this giveaway! I cannot wait for someone to win! I have to say that these two pendants are the best ones I have made so far!

http://thedcmetroretro.blogspot.com/2011/01/its-giveaway-time-again-resin-pendant.html

A Cold and Lazy Saturday

This morning,  I left the house at 8:45 am for my 9:00 am hair appointment. Despite my warm coat and gloves, I was absolutely freezing as I drove to the salon! It was so cold that I could actually see my breath and I could barely feel my feet! My car heater wasn't even kicking in! The temperature reading on my car dash read 19 degrees!

After my bone-chilling, 10-minute drive in the car, I arrived at the salon and I was happy to be inside again! During this appointment, Corry, my stylist of almost 4 years, refreshed my warm red color, trimmed my Middy, and added some amazing blond highlights as well! I had a blond chunk in my bangs colored over with a cool red tone back in September and I realized that I missed them around New Year's.  So, without further ado, here me wearing my new 49er jacket with my new hair color(s):

Here is a side view:

My blond is currently a pale shade with slight yellow tones. On my next appointment, Corry will lighten the blond again and eventually the blond will be platinum. It is always best to lighten hair gently and not process it too much at once! Hair can become damaged and even break off if the process is too intense!

After my appointment, I met my friend, Selina, at the mall and we shopped at MAC (I bought a new blot powder and a foundation brush) and then we talked over  coffee from Starbucks. It was so great to finally hang out with her! Our schedules have been super busy!

I went home after an hour or so and had lunch with the husband. He recently injured his achilles heel and is now wearing an aircast so we have just been taking it easy and not going out much. I do not mind. Besides, it was too cold to be out today! The high temperature here in the DC area only got to be 27 degrees!

After lunch, the husband and I made a fire and watched old MST3K episodes.

An upclose view of our cozy fire:

The fire was a perfect way to unwind and stay warm!

Before I knew it, it was time for dinner. Hmmmmm. What to make? Forget about cooking! I am too lazy today! The solution? Sushi takeout by the fire!

The food was so good, even Misty, my 14 year-old persian, came over to get her share:

Misty was actually looking into the camera but at the last second, she turned her head! I wish my camera could have captured Misty's cute, begging face! She has the "starving kitty stare" mastered completely!

Now that Saturday is coming to a close, I have to say it was a good day. I hope you all have a lovely weekend. And if you are somewhere cold, stay warm!

Betty's Vintage Musings is Now "The DC Metro Retro"

So, after much consideration, I have decided to change blog from "Betty's Vintage Musings" to "The DC Metro Retro." In addition, I am dropping the moniker "Lady Betty" for my name, "Tara."

"Lady Betty" was my pin-up name that I used for photography work, and since I have not done any projects since 2008, going by my real name seems more appropriate nowadays.

As for my new blog title, I think it's a great way to have fun with the fact that I seem to be one of the few vintage people in the DC area! Like I have mentioned many times before, there is no rockabilly/vintage community.  I am sure there a are a 'token few' rockabilly folks here and there but as a whole, DC lacks an established scene. There are no events, no shows, and there are definitely no neato-keen weekenders!  In a land of political action committees, lobbyists, government employees, senate staffers, and federal contractors; the J. Crew-clad locals shop at the mall, go out to eat, grab a drink, and commute in traffic. Oh, what I would do to be able to meet someone who lives and breathes the vintage life!

In conclusion, I hope you all will enjoy the changes here on my blog. Instead of lamenting the fact I "stick out like a sore thumb," I am going to start enjoying being a vintage gal surviving life inside the Beltway!

Etsy Haul! A new coat, a bag, and a 49er jacket!

Despite my desire to save money (my annual two-week Colorado ski trip and Viva are coming up), I still find myself buying vintage wares! Recently, I purchased a new coat, a black suede handbag, a plaid 49er jacket, and a black angora turtleneck.

The gray wool Banana Republic coat that I wear daily has started to come apart. I bought it in October 2005. The lining is torn on the pleat,  it's missing a button, and the belt that adorns the back is now falling off. Despite the its flaws, I am amazed this coat has served me well for over 5 years!  Due to my coat's demise, I decided to look for a replacement and last week I found this lovely, taupe colored, wool-alpaca blend,1950s deadstock Rothmoore coat for under $60.00 USD:

As my turtleneck situation, one of my most-worn pieces is a black merino blend Forever 21 sweater that has become a pilled mess!  I bought it last winter for 17.00 USD. Forever 21 merchandise is not known for its longevity! Forever 21 is famous for being cute, trendy, and cheap! Nevertheless, I wore that turtleneck with wide leg pants, rolled jeans, and skirts. Because a black turtleneck pairs well with so many things, I got this one:

As for the plaid 49er jacket, I have been wanting one for a long time! It is so perfect to wear with a turtleneck and rolled jeans on the weekends! It is a must have for casual wear!  I got this 1950s, red plaid jacket for under 20.00 USD!

I needed a new black handbag and I think a girl can never have too many accessories! I bought this 50s, black suede beauty for 22.00 USD!

I am pleased with my purchases and I glad I did not "break the bank!" The next 'must-have' I have my eye on is a 50s party dress! I need to update my fancy attire collection!

So, what finds have you girls bought lately?

Receiving Defective Merchandise! TUK Kitty Shoe Letdown

For about three years, I have wanted a pair of TUK "kitty face" mary janes. I love the kitty face on the front! There is even a black kitty tail on the back of the heel! How cute is that?! As a rockabilly "crazy cat lady" and TUK fan, I thought these shoes would just be perfect with either rolled jeans or red pencil skirt paired with a black turtleneck and a 50s plaid 49er jacket.

Earlier this week, I finally went on Endless.com and ordered a pair of kitty shoes! They were only 38.00 USD and they were available in my size 7! Well, today I received my shoes and as I excitedly opened the box, I noticed one of the straps looked a bit weird. Upon closer inspection, I saw that the back of the strap was totally cracked!

I am so disappointed! I mean, just look at that strap! These shoes have never been worn and yet this strap looks decrepit! I feel like if I try to buckle it, it could snap in half! I examined the other strap and it looks great. Talk about frustrating!

Despite my huge shoe letdown, I am thankful Endless.com has a great return policy and free returns. I also like how you can go to their site and print out a UPS label and simply tape it to your return and drop it off at your local UPS facility.

Since these shoes were defective, I hope Endless can replace them. If not, I just want my money back!

So, in the spirit of my shoe saga today, have any of you ever had a defective item experience?

It's Giveaway Time Again! Resin Pendant Duo!

I cannot believe I have over 150 followers now!  Thank you to everyone who reads my little blog! I have been blogging since May 2010 and I have to say that I am having the most fun meeting other vintage-enthusiasts, reading your blogs, sharing comments, and learning more about living the vintage life! Again, thank you all so much!

So, in honor of you all and in celebration of 150+ followers, I am doing another giveaway! This giveaway features two handmade, poured resin pendants made by me! I started making resin jewelry over a year ago and I enjoy it a lot!

The first pendant is a small rectangle (just under two inches long by 1.5 inches wide by 1/4 inch thick ). It is infused with white, opalescent glitter and two shimmery atomic starburst decals :

The second pendant is a heart-shaped piece made with letter beads that read "Aloha."  The heart measures over 2 and 1/2 inches long and is over 2 and 1/2 inches wide and is over 1/4 of an inch thick. I incorporated a glittery pink hibiscus decal in a sea of bright, orange-pink glitter. I think this piece would be perfect for that tiki/Hawaiian-theme party on your schedule! Also, for all you gals going to Viva, imagine wearing this pendant at the tiki pool party! Just put that flower in your hair, don your kamehameha dress or that tiki-print playsuit, and strut your stuff!

Both pendants come with attached sterling silver bails so they can be suspended on a chain. They also have been coated in a high-gloss varnish to better protect the pendants' surface and to give them an extra bit of shine!

The giveaway begins today, Friday the 21st, and will end Tuesday the 25th. To participate, simply follow my blog (if you don't already) and leave a comment on this post. The lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday the 26th!

Have fun and good luck!

Hair Product Spotlight-Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment Conditioner

Some of you may know that I am a hair color addict. I have been red, platinum blond, black, pink, purple, brunette and back again. Moreover, I tease my hair for rolls, poke my head with bobby pins, use flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers. My hair needs tender loving care and good quality products to help lessen the damage I put it through and I have found a miracle treatment that I have to share with you!

I think it is safe to say that most of us are familiar with the new "buzz" surrounding Moroccan Argan oil. This oil is made from the argan tree that grows in Morocco. The oils boasts conditioning properties that infuse hair with incredible shine, softness, and strength.

When I was shopping in my loca Ulta one day, I spotted Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment Conditioner. I read the description and felt it was worth a try. Also, the product was only $7.99 USD and I had a 20% coupon. I thought the price was great and if the conditioner did not live up to its promises, I would only be out a few bucks.

Well, let me tell you, the only thing I lost was damaged hair! I love this stuff and it has become a MUST in my hair care regime. Here is how I use it:

Once a week, after shampooing with Tigi's Superstar Sulfate-Free shampoo, I apply a walnut-size amount of the treatment to my hair and gently comb through. I put on a clear, plastic shower cap and finish my shower. I let the conditioner penetrate my hair for about 5-7 minutes as I brush my teeth and apply my body lotion. I then take off the cap and rinse my hair with cool water. My hair feels so smooth and soft! After I blow dry, my dry hair is amazingly shiny! The last time I had my hair color done, my stylist even commented on how healthy my hair felt.

I am going to the salon on Friday for my color touch up and I feel confident that this Organix treatment will help protect my hair and keep it in good shape for years to come!

DC Covered In Ice

(photo courtesy of the AP)


Last night around 8 pm, snow and ice started falling here in the DC Metro Region. As the night progressed, the precipitation turned to sleet and freezing rain. When the man and I woke up this morning around 7 am, we looked outside and saw our yard, street, trees, and patio furniture glazed with a crystal-like sheen. It was pretty for sure. But pretty can be slippery and dangerous so today we are working from home. The government opened late and the lcoal schools are closed.

I feel so indulgent since yesterday was a federal holiday for Martin Luther King Day and today I find myself home again (even though I am working). It is 11:30 am and I still drinking coffee and wearing my robe! I am going to work on my projects for work, pay bills, make a fire, and cuddle with the cat.

So, on days you find yourself at home due to inclement weather, what do you do/like to do?

Wedges Shoes ala Carmen Miranda! Free People "Daisy" Wedges

I recently received a Free People catalog in my mail. As I flipped through the pages, I spotted these wooden soled wedged and I instantly fell in shoe lust! These wedges make me long for warm summer days or even a tropical getaway! They retail for $168.00 USD. Here is the link:

http://www.freepeople.com/daisy-wedge-platform/_/cmCategoryID/fa53f873-3912-44b3-8a95-13af10c515fd/?&productOptionIDs=6ad4e93d-38a6-4b9f-bb17-01f8e9fbc138

These shoes come in black, blue with red bows, and in cheetah print. I am torn between the blue and the black. But I can see myself getting more use out the black pair since black goes nicely with most outfits!  These shoes are very 40s vintage-inspired and they remind me of Carmen Miranda!

I am so jealous of that shoe collection! Oh, what I would do to be able to go back in time and browse Carmen's closet!

Even though I love winter, I am ready to start thinking about my spring/summer wardrobe.

So, with Viva around the corner and the warmer months approaching, what clothing/shoe/accessories are you hankering for?

Dealing With Rudeness

Normally, I relegate the content on my blog to all things vintage. I prefer to keep my little corner of cyberspace as a place of positivity, fun, learning, sharing, and meeting other vintage enthusiasts. However, I feel the need to share with you all something that happened to me that was not so nice. I was a bit rattled and baffled by this incident but in the end, I know it means nothing. I just shook it off and moved on.

So here is my story:

A few weeks ago, I was at my local gym working out and I observed a father instructing his middle-school aged son to lift a weight bar that was obviously way too heavy. I noticed the boy struggling as he attempted to do shoulder shrugs and all I could envision was an injury. I could see the father had a certain arrogance about him. I had a suspicion that if I said something, my comments would more than likely be unwelcome.

Well, stupidly not heeding my own instinct to keep mum, after completing my bicep curls, I smiled and said, "If you guys lift less weight, you can do more reps." The father turned to me and scowled, "We GOT it? OKAY?!" I think if no one was around, he would have said more. I truly felt threatened. I then responded. "Oh, I am sorry." The man scowled even harder and I said, "I apologize, really." He rolled his eyes and mumbled something offensive. I walked away shaking inside. I went to another side of the gym and avoided further contact. I felt sorry for that man's child. What a terrible role model.

Why are some people so rude/mean? And, why am I taking it so hard? I always try to be kind, gentle, and caring. I have been this way ever since I was little. I was a friendly kid and when another bullied me or called me a mean name, I found myself feeling really hurt yet I got over it.

I think that is why I took an interest Buddhism when I was in college. I really do not want to make this post/blog about personal beliefs but I feel stating that will help shed light on my views. Despite my non-conflict nature, if my life is in danger, I will defend myself (albeit with a heavy heart).  If someone is rude to me (which is rare), I usually walk away or try to dissolve the matter. When the man at the gym "put me in my place," I simply walked away. It is not worth snapping back, especially in front of a child.

I know there are all kinds of people in this world. I try to focus on the good in people and ignore the rudeness and callousness that exists in a few.  I also need to remind myself what Ghandi said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." If I wish others to be nice, than I am going to be nice. Period. However, I know that just being nice will not guarantee a nice interaction with everyone. I understand this, even if my initial response is that of disappointment.

In 2011, I am going to work on to letting negativity go and focus on the positive. There are just so many wonderful things for me to spend my energy on like improving my sewing skills, training for a marathon, spending more time with family, traveling, going skiing, and learning some new recipes!

So, when faced with rudeness, what do you do?

Contemplating Going to Viva

Since I started blogging back in May 2010, I have met so many wonderful vintage enthusiasts! I have met people from all over the US, the UK, Australia, Germany, Norway, and so on. I feel very fortunate knowing that I am not the only girl out there who puts her hair in rolls, adorns her home in atomic style, and dons red lipstick and vintage clothing on a daily basis!

As I have stated before, the DC Metro Region is totally lacking a vintage scene! There are no events, no musical acts, no shows, and no vintage-clad people traversing about the Beltway. Instead of circle skirts and platform shoes, all I see is Ann Taylor Loft, Brooks Brothers, and khaki-clad suburbanites. I have made peace with the fact that DC is not a vintage town. It is a government town where lobbyists and government employees are the standard. I stick out and that is okay.

Nevertheless, I have taken an interest in going to Viva Las Vegas. I have never been and I would really like experience it at least once. I love visiting Vegas in general and I think Viva would be a fun way to meet some of you and other vintage-loving people. I need an excuse to dress up, shop, and have martinis! I have been to Las Vegas three times for business. Despite the professional reasons for my trips, I was able to sample the amazing food, shopping, and night life. The best martini I ever had was at the Rumjungle in Mandalay Bay. I felt like I kid in a candy store when I was shopping at Sephora at the Venetian. That was the BIGGEST Sephora I have ever been in my life! Talk about sensory overload!

So, girls, what do you think? Should the man and I go to Viva? If any of you have gone in years past, what did you think of the event?

Morning Snow!

Late yesterday afternoon, it started to sleet and snow here in the DC Metro Region. The amount of snow was trivial and by noon today, most of it was gone. The above picture (showing the view from my front porch) was taken at 8:00 am this morning. It was so pretty. I wish the area got more! I am so jealous that Boston is getting nearly two feet!

Here is a view of the backyard:

Here is the cat gazing out the sunroom door:

For some reason, whenever I straighten the door mat, my 14 year-old persian likes to move it/wrinkle it. Maybe she is practicing cat Feng Shui and a wonky rug brings good chi! (Jk!)

The above picture shows the other side of my street, looking from my front porch.  I wish it would look this way all winter long! I have snow/ski fever bad so I am a bit snow-crazy right now! I have even been having ski dreams!

So, how has winter been treating everyone so far?

Vintage Makeup Featuring Ben Nye Fireworks Cream Shadow and Besame Red Lipstick!

This is me, wearing Ben Nye Fireworks Cream shadow in FW1 ($8.95 USD) and Besame Red lipstick ($22.00 USD) by Besame Cosmetics. You can purchase Besame products online at http://www.besamecosmetics.com/index.cfm. You can find Ben Nye cosmetics at various online sites and at Ricky's NYC locations in New York City. (I bought my shadow cream at Ricky's NYC in the East Village during my last trip).

Ben Nye Cosmetics is a theatre/special effects makeup that is just amazing. Most of their products are for the stage but they carry several items that can be used for day-to-day wear. For instance, Ben Nye's line of cream shadows! These little shadow creams come in small clear jars. They remind me of MAC's Paint Pots and Make Up For Ever's Aqua Creams. The level of pigmentation is intense and can be layered. You can also apply these sheer for a more subtle look. When using any type of cream shadow, you will have more long wear and better color pay off if you apply a shadow base like Nars Pro-Prime Smudge-Proof Shadow Primer, Urban Decay Primer Potion, or Too Faced Shadow Insurance. I tried wearing the Ben Nye and/or the MUFE Aqua Creams without a primer and they both had the tendency to crease/slide off the lids!

For my look, I primed my eyelids with a small amount of NARS' primer. Then using MAC's 242 brush, I applied the Ben Nye gold cream shadow to my lids. Then, I put MAC's Gorgeous Gold (a sheer, shimmery gold) on top of the Ben Nye cream shadow. On my crease, I applied MAC's Copperplate eyeshadow (a grayish-matte brown). On my browbone, I applied a sheer wash of MAC's eyeshadow in Vanilla (a creamy, slightly shimmery pale cream). On my lower lash line, I applied Make Up For Ever's Aqua Liner in 9L (a soft, pale shimmery gold). To make the gold liner last longer and to enhance the gold tones, I applied a little Gorgeous Gold on top using a MAC 208 brush.  To finish the look, I applied a super bright, yet light golden yellow frost shadow (MAC's Nylon) on the center of my lids and on the inner corners of my eyes. MAC Opulash Mascara in Black was then applied to lashes.

On my lips, I primed their surface with MAC's Lip Prep and Prime and then applied Besame Red. I lined my lips with Make Up For Ever's Lip pencil in 8C.

I really like using shadow creams for my daily look! They are fun and their creamy texture applies like a dream and makes standard powder shadow even more intense!  Talk about fun!

So, If you want to try cream shadows for yourself, I totally recommend MAC Paint Pots ($16.50 USD), MUFE Aqua Creams ($22.00 USD), and Ben Nye Fireworks ($8.95)!

MAC is available at most Nordstrom locations and they also have free-standing stores. Their website is www.maccosmetics.com. Make Up For Ever (MUFE) is available at all Sephora locations and on their site at www.sephora.com. Ben Nye can be found on various sites, eBay, and at Ricky's NYC locations in New York City.

Vintage Christmas Gifts! Bakelite, Blue Heaven, and a Radio!

This past Christmas I really lucked out when it came to vintage goodies! I was so pleased with what family gave me! It makes me wonder what I did to deserve what I got!

My mother-in-law gave me two beautiful bakelite bangles! One is a red swirled piece and the other is a carved butterscotch beauty!

My mother-in-law also got me a Blue Heaven serving bowl to match the four cereal bowls I bought last summer:

Then to my complete surprise and amazement, my brother-in-law bought me a late 1940s vintage Olympic bakelite AM radio! Apparently, the previous owner replaced the backing, replaced all the tubes, and repaired a few components inside. I have it in my kitchen!

Here is an upclose view of the dial:

Since the radio is AM, I can only get a few stations. Most AM is either foreign language stations, talk radio, church music, and NOAA weather broadcasts. I keep the radio on the NOAA station so I can hear the weather for the day as I make breakfast in the morning. Even if the radio did not work, I would still love it just for display! But the fact it works as beautiful as it looks is just too cool!

So, gals, do you get any vintage lovelies this year? Please share!

It's Good to Be Back! Happy 2011!

After being away from blogging for a few weeks, it feels good to be back in the "land of the living!" Now that the holidays are over, I am ready to write, share new products reviews with you, and start making comments again on your blogs again!

I hope everyone's holidays were enjoyable! Mine were so busy, I feel like I need a vacation! I hosted Christmas dinner and New Year's Eve. I went to my sister's Christmas Eve party, hung out with my parents, and celebrated with my in-laws. Moreover, on the day after Christmas, my parents, the man, myself, my sister, my brother-in-law, and my niece and nephew went to New York City on Amtrak. Every year around the holidays, we visit NYC for a few days for fun, dining, and shopping, and also to see the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.

Let me tell you, New York City during a blizzard is a sight to be hold! I love snow and winter but walking from 50th and 6th down to 36th and 8th (after the Rockettes Show) in the bitter cold, driving snow, and gale-force winds is pure hell. Normally, we would have taken cabs back to our hotel but no cabs were running and the few that were out were just spinning in place.

The Amtrak and local airports were shut down for a few days but luckily we were all able to get back home to the DC area on Tuesday evening. I will go back to New York for sure but never during a winter storm. It is so not worth it!

So, now that it's 2011, I am eager to get back into the gym, train for a marathon, and continue to learn to sew! I will be 36 in April and I want to be healthier, fitter, and more knowledgeable when it comes to all things vintage!

Here's to a new year, gals!