tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64269329863298705202012-02-16T04:03:23.213-08:00Just my notes and musings on fashion, food, and life.Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.comBlogger781100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-8080393583872883042011-09-29T19:36:00.001-07:002011-09-29T19:41:26.440-07:00

I am totally psyched to attend this year's Vogue Front Row Fashion show in Bellevue again this year! Having attended for a few years now, it is one of my all time favorite fashion events of the Northwest! Unfortunately, my BFF won't be attending with me. The cost is high and while we love to go, it nearly came down on the financial chopping block for me as well. But one of my favorite parts

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-84859423247726516162011-09-18T11:49:00.000-07:002011-09-18T11:49:59.911-07:00

Find me on Polyvore

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-2145163141053855292011-09-18T11:36:00.001-07:002011-09-18T11:42:32.628-07:00

I don't know that this post is really about vintage going wrong as it is about disasters that happen when you buy vintage goods. It happens rarely as long as you inspect the object before you buy or are prepared to accept mild flaws as long as the item can still function. The most disasters happen to me (I don't presume to speak to other vintage buyers) with teapots and vases. For example, I

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-77789300104875113502011-09-11T16:04:00.001-07:002011-09-11T16:11:34.068-07:00

I hate to call it a shed. And when I do, people look at me funny. Perhaps the craft cottage? Or the inspiration zone? Invariably when people stop looking at me like I'm crazy quizzically, they asked rather hesitantly, "what crafts do you do?" They don't really want to know. They are terrified to know really. Well, to be honest with you, I haven't done this for years so I'm not really sure. I

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-84326406527801128442011-09-02T15:06:00.001-07:002011-09-02T15:11:54.963-07:00

The mornings here in the Northwest have been hinting at impending doom autumn. Actually, I love autumn. The smell of bonfires and hot apple cider (cliche, I know) get me excited to curl up on the sofa for weekend movie marathons (I can't wait for Downton Abbey to start!) and a huge slice of pumpkin pie. In an effort to hurry the season change along, I changed my manicure. So excited for

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-25690788701181187402011-08-26T09:27:00.001-07:002011-08-26T09:47:44.000-07:00

Beauty Essentials by cadence on Polyvore.comGuerlain - Meteorites Voyage Refillable Compact Powder - 01 Mythic 01... $160 - yesstyle.com Eyeshadow Primer Potion by Urban Decay (Official Site) $19 - urbandecay.com Lipstick Queen Discover Kit 2 $48 - barneys.com Dior Dior Bronze Harmonie De Blush $44 - saksfifthavenue.com Lancôme ÔScillation Water-Resistant Mascara $34 - saksfifthavenue.com

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-75947708431179208892011-08-23T19:15:00.001-07:002011-08-23T19:22:13.191-07:00

Ok, Perfumistas, we can't all be Donatella Versace with her fantastic perfume cabinets. If you haven't seen the gorgeous shelves, check out this handy article on perfume storage. We also can't buy ever single bottle that strikes our fancy (try as we might)! So I'm sure that many of you have turned to great websites like The Perfumed Court and Lucky Scent for decants and samples. This feeds our

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-90764253065888316502011-08-19T14:01:00.001-07:002011-08-19T14:02:59.138-07:00

When I woke up this morning, I reached for my tiny sample bottle of Mistral's Wild Blackberry. With the heat of the summer upon us, even in the mildest way possible here in my NW corner, I longed for the dog days of my childhood summers. My mother would pack up every bucket and plastic container in the house. And we would drive the very short distance in the 1970's station wagon to the elementary

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-66151657059697697282011-08-17T09:20:00.001-07:002011-08-17T09:21:39.428-07:00

The Hour, BBC's new series is set in the mid1950's. Chronicling the rise of television and evolution of news reporting as we know it now, The Hour is a beautiful look at a period of history that has captured recent imagination with shows such as Mad Men. However, The Hour is so much more. Thick with plot, it has twists, turns, and surprises which remind me of AMC's sadly cancelled series,

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-3432159526708536732011-08-15T16:56:00.001-07:002011-08-15T16:57:31.457-07:00

I rarely buy makeup at garage sales. Perfume perhaps but never makeup. It is just not sanitary. Unless that person is a distributor such as an Avon representative and they are selling their stash but even then...I hesitate. However, when it came to the bin of nail polish as a sale on Saturday, I was a sucker. The name was Age of Aquarius which drew me in automatically because I am an Aquarius.

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-63569912581465883242011-08-15T15:49:00.001-07:002011-08-15T15:49:30.512-07:00

It has been so exciting to watch the conversion of my ugly garden shed into a useful crafting shed. While it is still not finished, we have been working hard on it. My awesome Hubby has been doing most of the hard stuff like nailing things and adding electrical outlets. He even put in the window that I bought at a garage sale years ago!I have a landscaper who will be leaving me soon for better

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-74418952081087608292011-08-14T10:37:00.001-07:002011-08-14T12:29:35.253-07:00

Photo Gallery : InStyle.com What's Right Now (clipped to polyvore.com) Kate Spade and Poppy King Lipstick Collaboration - Bashful Blush. How glorious is this???? And who do I have to bribe to get a sample? I love all of Poppy King lipsticks. At first, when I was using them, I was skeptical but now I reach for them as often as I do my Guerlain (and that's saying something!) They go with

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-37833099402322859302011-08-13T08:21:00.001-07:002011-08-13T08:21:02.585-07:00

I have been so busy that I didn't blog about my tag sale findings from last week! A friend called me and said that her entire development was having a sale. Would I like to come over and go with her? Yes, please! I love whole neighborhood sales. It's like a one stop shopping marketplace! But amazingly, I showed restraint. Since Hubby and I are in the midst of the craft shed remodel (updates to

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-11377483442585666852011-08-10T19:10:00.001-07:002011-08-10T19:10:43.400-07:00

I was thrilled when Nails Inc. came to Sephora. I had been waiting for this since All Lacquered Up reported on this brand. I was absolutely in lust with Paddington which I hoped would be a creamy British Racing green. My picture is taken against the British racing green of my husband's car. It was very difficult to get a picture without a ton of glare but you can see it's pretty close. I would

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-72840178808289844782011-08-03T15:45:00.001-07:002011-08-03T15:56:44.046-07:00

Full disclosure. I am not a knitter. I can't knit. Literally. My brain does not compute. So the logical question that you are asking by now is, "Why on the earth would you be anywhere near Sock Summit?" and you would be right in doing so. Ah the things that I do for friendship. My BFF, the lovely Sherri, is a dedicated knitter. And she promised me mittens. I'm all about the fingerless mittens.

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-69119127723899066112011-07-27T16:34:00.001-07:002011-07-27T16:34:00.689-07:00

I had a Big Bang Theory moment happen the other day. My family and I are HUGE BBT fans. My son wants to believe that he is like Sheldon which can be a bit maddening at times such as when I walked out into the Iiving room the other day and saw this;Which then reminded me of the Big Bang Theory episode titled the Staircase Implementation from season 3. It is a flashback episode which fills in the

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-75729326716976271272011-07-27T15:54:00.001-07:002011-07-27T16:04:37.445-07:00

I've been curious about farm shares or CSA's for awhile but was hesitant to subscribe or buy shares for several reasons. 1. The dietary needs of my family might not fit the fluidity and seasonal nature of a farm box. Several coworkers who received farm boxes told stories of cooking with vegetables that they'd never seen before and none of the men in my family would be able to handle the

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-41058584355308551592011-07-27T13:53:00.001-07:002011-07-27T13:53:42.148-07:00

This morning, I must have been in a sexy, steamy mood because my morning cup of Joe ended up in this mug. Of course, I suppose you could also play on the double entendre here and say that I was feeling cranky and ready to go off. I prefer the sexy interpretation but with a headache like mine, you might go with the second one! I bought this mug at Marshall's. And amazingly since it's been

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-13872859600761306492011-07-26T12:08:00.001-07:002011-07-26T12:08:06.621-07:00

I was delighted to find a pair of Report sandals on clearance Marshall's. Report is a Seattle based shoe company so I love to follow them. I have not purchased any shoes up until now. Not for lack of want though. Just right now on their website, I was just drooling over some of their sale sandals which are priced considerably more than my $10 score. They also have considerably more flare than

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-17143257680789189782011-07-26T10:57:00.001-07:002011-07-26T12:14:22.146-07:00

This weekend, during the rare 80 degree heat, I visited one place in Olympia that curiously I have never been. Considering I am the first to love rummaging around in inexpensive vintage goods, it is strange that I'd never paid a visit to Olympia's Flea Market. But as my family and I were on a mission for salvaged building supplies to use on my shed project, our trajectory took us past the flea

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-78723660223606106592011-07-22T12:20:00.001-07:002011-07-22T12:25:15.807-07:00

No, I'm not talking about my hideous sleepy face in the morning. I'm blogging about my lovely coffee cup. This morning's selection is a gorgeous cup by Hues & Brews. Bought at my local tea shop,I restrained myself to one but here on Amazon, you can buy all four. I own the tangerine one which is a sunny way to wake up!Here's the next one that I might buy. Of course, I don't need four. But I just

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-7074826522671910602011-07-21T16:15:00.001-07:002011-07-21T16:24:27.444-07:00

I won't be dreaming any longer once my shed project is complete. After some shuffling of family members this year the promise of a craft room came and went in the twinkle of an eye. It left me feeling hemmed in and frustrated because the space that I aspired to might not be available for a few years. And I'd been putting off crafts that I used to do for years already! Inspired by some of my

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-24336489698972693482011-07-12T16:35:00.001-07:002011-07-12T16:35:22.049-07:00

It would seem that this weeks findings might be telling me something. Perhaps that I am in need of an island getaway. Many tag sale aficionados pass up tourist or travel goods. There tends not to be much market for there types of items. Again, I was rather slow on my estate sale cruising this weekend. My husband and I were taking apart a garden shed to remake it into a craft shed for yours truly

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-91443647424291128682011-07-11T17:57:00.001-07:002011-07-11T17:57:41.156-07:00

Peach Keen by CadenceRyanne featuring coral jewelryAlice Olivia long dress$440 - pinkmascara.comTopimpressionen.deMimi Holliday by damari$84 - journelle.comEd hardy heels$69 - edhardyshop.comCanvas shopping bag$60 - topshop.comDome ring$172 - alexisbittar.comLavish Jewelry long ring$80 - charmandchain.comDorothy Perkins coral jewelry£7 - dorothyperkins.comKendra Scott gold plated ring$75 - 

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-65295262609664202762011-07-11T17:38:00.001-07:002011-07-11T17:38:34.993-07:00

Summer Angst by CadenceRyanne featuring summer jewelryJuicy Couture summer jewelry$78 - couture.zappos.comRing$145 - winknyc.comIrene Neuwirth hinged bracelet$29,160 - ylang23.comClub Manhattan stone jewelry€20 - welikefashion.comAriella Collection stackable rings jewelry$68 - nordstrom.comSydney Evan rose gold jewelry$1,035 - ylang23.comBetsey Johnson sparkle jewelry$45 - macys.comLe Versha

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-38583282592671223202011-07-07T14:23:00.001-07:002011-07-07T15:49:38.903-07:00

Navy Blue Lap/Crib Quilt - Check out the turquoise hounds tooth squares! I have been incredibly slow to start my garage/estate sale perusing this year. Normally my husband and I start making lists of items that we are looking for in January. There have been times where we have gone to sales all year long but that is rare. Then around February or March, sales start up. But this year, our list

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-28113297611121908602011-04-17T08:15:00.001-07:002011-04-17T08:15:56.367-07:00

Hi! I'm trying a new app to post to blogger! It's been an adventure trying to post from my IPad but with this great app, I think I might finally have it!

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-17214799741448339842011-04-16T20:33:00.000-07:002011-04-17T08:18:52.974-07:00

In excitement for the royal wedding and probably the minute it hit shelves, I ordered butter London's No More Waity Katie! From the lovely ladies at my all time favorite site, B-glowing. But it wasn't until today that I had time to do a manicure. I don't typically do nail polish reviews. But here's some swatches of No More Waity, Katie! To get us all in the mood for a royal wedding. It also

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-57325453400760306602010-09-13T17:13:00.000-07:002010-09-13T17:24:17.282-07:00

By happy accident, I received a phone call from the lady at Neiman Marcus in the Guerlain counter.  I wanted a lipstick the last time I was in the store during Bellevue Fashion Week.  I use my Guerlain lipsticks until they are just tiny nubbins of color.  It was time to buy one but they were out of the color that I wanted.  In addition, since it was the beautiful Le Rouge G lipstick, they were

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-69728038824298088382010-09-06T20:00:00.000-07:002010-09-07T18:13:45.108-07:00

As the weather begins to turn cold and blustery (especially today), I begin to put my thoughts to a cozy bed to curl up in during the day with a 90210 marathon or at night with the hubby, kids, and animals.  What can I say, we have a full house!  I have been in particular looking for some quilts to put over the bed.  With their beautiful colors, awesome graphic patterns, and variety, quilts never

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-77288690355783647582010-09-01T05:00:00.000-07:002010-09-01T05:00:04.557-07:00

It was a strange tag sale weekend.  Usually I see things right away and snatch them up, but this weekend I stood in front of tables for several minutes picking through items before I found the goodies.  It was more like browsing but with curiosity.  I must have spent a half hour at one sale just picking through things both in the garage and out in the yard.  Another sale, I went back to the next

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-40274704888122177142010-08-30T13:28:00.000-07:002010-08-30T13:34:10.803-07:00

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-2675542642478474932010-08-30T11:16:00.000-07:002010-08-30T13:52:55.968-07:00

For the past few years, a friend and I have been attending fashion week in Bellevue. We buy All Access tickets to get goodies such as front row seats or valet parking (one year we lost our car! It was a nightmare so valet parking was an awesome perk.)  The Bellevue Collection and various partners get together to put on a benefit fashion show, announcing the beginning of Fall/Winter Fashion.  The

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-79431879047104192272010-08-22T15:58:00.000-07:002010-08-22T16:01:03.763-07:00

I have been in awe of the incredible Mad Men style. It took me several tries to get into the show but the sets and fashion are so impressive. I must have gone garage saling this weekend with that in mind because several of my scores had Mad Men style! I know on the east coast these sales are referred to as tag sales. My family and I go to all no them no matter what the name. Sometimes I find

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-24943570044432671782010-08-19T20:28:00.000-07:002010-08-19T20:28:12.638-07:00

Autumn Goodies by CadenceRyanne featuring Anthropologie shoesOver The Moon Booties$198 - anthropologie.comMore Anthropologie ankle booties »Safari Clutch$490 - aspinaloflondon.comMore Aspinal of London clutches »Benefit Cosmetics So Hooked On Carmella 1 oz Eau de Toilette Spray -...$36 - sephora.comAmazon.com: ALPHONSE MUCHA POSTER - AUTUMN 1896 - RARE ART PRINT: Home...$5.99 - 

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-76889178531101731612010-08-17T09:09:00.000-07:002010-08-17T09:18:47.596-07:00

I am starting a regular feature on this blog.  This means blog commitment so I hesitate to say that it's going to happen every week or every other week.  But I am committed to expanding this blog so here goes!  I grew up in a time of fads and fancies where living by the land was appreciated.  Big skirts and bonnets were popular.  Floral prints abounded.  That was simply the fashion.  The style of

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-66262245638783600622010-08-14T19:53:00.000-07:002010-08-14T20:17:40.770-07:00

Being out in the wilderness presents itself with many challenges for the fashionista.  The concept of the 'elements' rings a different tone to the fashion conscious.  Sure I was concerned about bears and cougars but I was also concerned about packing lightly for hikes and keeping my hair and skin fresh and beautiful. But camping in a campground with limited water sources brings about even more

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-36626700078685944462010-08-13T20:42:00.000-07:002010-08-13T20:42:40.939-07:00

I am not a huge Forever 21 fan.  Not because I dislike them or hold any great antipathy to affordable fashion.  Forever 21 is just relatively new to my state.  I am also not their target audience - perhaps too old (ahem).  But that said, they remind me of the old Jay Jacobs and a frilly Fashion Direction (for which I spend a great five years working in the 80's).  Trendy and inexpensive, Forever

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-27678566315664861592010-08-03T13:45:00.000-07:002010-08-03T13:45:45.451-07:00

For my birthday, I asked my husband for a Tassimo.  This was not a decision that I came to suddenly.  My coffee drinking days consisted of filling a twelve cup coffee maker with grounds and filters and tons of water.  Every morning I would dump the disgusting grounds into the garbage, clean out the thick dark brew left over, and start again.  Think about the waste.  And as I evaluated this ritual

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-13045250144014024002010-07-31T18:58:00.000-07:002010-07-31T18:58:12.643-07:00

What's Your Passion for Fashion? Challenge - Round 1 Sponsored by Neiman Marcus

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-61500828153022305502010-07-29T20:03:00.000-07:002010-07-29T20:03:05.150-07:00

I want to share this Look on Couturious.com with you. Let me know what you think!

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-9992293557713689262010-07-26T15:44:00.000-07:002010-07-26T17:29:24.956-07:00

I had the great pleasure of hosting a jewelry party on Sunday. A great time was had by all (I hope! I haven't heard otherwise). A friend of mine recently because a Lia Sophia consultant in order to make some money for her master's degree and perhaps a vacation or two along the way. So I volunteered to host a party. No arm twisting needed because it involved my three favorite things; friends,

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-92105745934443293022010-03-02T19:12:00.000-08:002010-03-02T19:25:01.199-08:00

Neiman Marcus can taunt me all they want! I will not break down and buy my latest LUST from jewelry designer Alexis Bittar. But check it out. Gorgeous! It was in my shopping cart at one point but I whispered to myself, "Back away slowly." Can I just say that this beauty would compliment my spring wardrobe excellently?Also, in the process of writing this post, I discovered Alexis Bittar has a

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-11145021716195755762010-02-08T19:18:00.000-08:002010-02-09T17:25:08.278-08:00

If you are looking to spoil your lady for Valentine's Day by tickling, teasing, and tempting her erogenous zones, try some of these ideas! As we historians know, when the concepts of beauty and sex change over time, so does fashion which highlights those areas on the body thought to bring forth carnal desire. For example, Victorians loved shoulders and waists, designing the tight corsets and

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-6889895025834970342010-01-24T13:57:00.002-08:002010-01-24T14:37:31.433-08:00

As my birthday grows nearer, I start thinking about all those great childhood moments that led me to blogging about of all things, beauty. One of the most fascinating brushes with fashion and beauty came to me in a strange way. In grade school, my teacher met with my mother and discussed the fact that I am left handed. This "disability" (yeah, right) was causing me to struggle to learn to cut.

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-52388724604020584672010-01-24T11:03:00.000-08:002010-01-24T13:22:02.723-08:00

I struggle with itchy skin. More and more it is becoming a year round issue. About a month ago, I started a search on drugstore shelves for inexpensive effective treatments in and out of the shower. A wise person told me that your skin eventually gets used to the products that you are using and sometimes when that happens the products cease to be effective. This was clearly the case with me

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-11524081351611909602009-10-21T19:55:00.000-07:002009-10-21T20:17:41.561-07:00

I just wanted to write a quick blog to address the FTC blog rules for freebies. I makes me a bit sad that the FTC is targeting bloggers and that my professional life (I have a degree in politics and am constantly dealing with policy) should cross over into my personal blog. So this will just be quick statement.I don't receive any free items from companies. Everything that I review I have

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-71554225460194704852009-08-10T16:09:00.000-07:002009-08-10T16:30:24.080-07:00

I won a contest the other day. Yeah. Yeah. But this one was special. I just love the Lancome Blog! It is one of the blogs that I am consistent about reading. When I subscribed to it, I was worried that it would be another 'pimp the product' blog. But under the guidance of Kerry Diamond, the blog is so much more. Not only do readers get to read about Lancome's products but often there are

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-4660130129980876552009-08-09T08:47:00.000-07:002009-08-09T10:18:01.981-07:00

On Friday, I was happy enough to accompany my BFF down to Portland, Oregon to the Sock Summit. I was one of the few non-knitters in attendance but still had fun. There are some pretty cool things about knitters. First, they are very nice people. We met some wonderful new friends and had great conversations. Also, there were delicious color palettes of yarns. I won't even begin to review

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-10492744139790103092009-08-03T12:11:00.000-07:002009-08-03T12:19:29.953-07:00

Ok, ignore the little chip out of my pinkie nail. That just happened this morning. Sigh.I must have been inspired by the geraniums on my back patio because this was the color that I chose this week!

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-55591456268892822972009-07-21T09:20:00.000-07:002009-07-21T10:08:11.277-07:00

Have you ever bought a lipstick and found that the color or consistency is just not going to do it for you? You looked at the color swatch online and thought, "That's gorgeous!" You wait forever (three days can seem like forever) only to find that the color is not even close to the online swatch AND not to mention it looks like a bag lady would use it! And then you think about the $25 that you

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-39751742170441294132009-07-21T08:12:00.000-07:002009-07-21T09:16:41.093-07:00

I spent a lovely weekend at MedFest 09. For those of you who are unfamiliar with bellydancing, that is Middle Eastern Dance Festival 09. It was a blast. When I started planning this weekend back in January, my thoughts were to make it a nice getaway for hubby and I. It came to my attention during the spring that Hyatt in Seattle was opening a LEED green certified hotel called Olive 8. A neat

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-5973117148628886972009-07-13T08:29:00.001-07:002009-07-13T08:38:25.872-07:00

Here I am sporting O.P.I.'s "You Don't Know Jacques". I had been looking for more of a summer Khaki while shopping on Saturday but found this color from the Fall 2008 France collection instead. It happened to match my dark brown Khaki's. No matter what I do, I seem to come back to O.P.I. as a standard. If anyone follows my twitter, they would know that I had a failed manicure this last week (

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-13640988195017137062009-07-06T16:33:00.000-07:002009-07-06T20:50:29.366-07:00

As I can't afford to buy the big beautiful fashion books, I have taken to checking them out at the library. Well, it also hinders me that they are big and I don't have the shelf space.1. The Golden Age of Couture Paris and London 1947-57 by Claire Wilcox - Or perhaps this one should be more appropriately renamed, "Why we love Balenciaga and Christian Dior." Fantastic picture of YSL at Dior's

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-57007187491594477672009-06-23T17:11:00.000-07:002009-06-23T20:44:32.330-07:00

You can ask anyone in my very small circle of friends. I love lipstick. No lip gloss for this girl (well, occasionally, I confess!). But my lipstick organizer is full and has lipsticks stacked on top (and that's not even including the ones that are in my purse!). Often, I keep lipstick for way longer than I should just because I like that color. Right now, I have several favorite summer

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-22067098770562369972009-06-20T16:40:00.000-07:002009-06-20T17:01:23.015-07:00

I have to brag. After months of searching for a nice handbag, getting ready to commit to one other the other and then backing away because a) various design flaws b) the price c) cheap materials, I settled on the Sak. I shouldn't use the word settled though because that implies that I gave up something. The Sak is one of the most under-rated brands on the market, especially the leather

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-25810605673359460702009-05-05T16:28:00.000-07:002009-05-05T16:58:49.484-07:00

I may be a little late to the game but recently I picked up a PJ set by OnGossamer at Costco. I normally don't like to buy clothing at Costco because every one will be wearing it later. I have two Costco's in driving distance. Who wants to see the exact same Ed Hardy shirt twenty times during the day? I will admit that Costco does carry some fantastic, solid designers like Tommy Hilfiger and

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-79414084131697679972009-04-09T15:50:00.000-07:002009-04-09T16:01:56.700-07:00

I'll be honest. I tend to avoid Juicy Couture purses. Their velour pants are another matter. Perfect for lounging around home or on lazy shopping days. But the purses always seem a bit teenager-esque. Not so with the Daphne satchel. This is on my list. I'll take it in the brown (puddle) or bold pink (poinsetta) daisy print. Either way, it's graphic and adorable. The bee on the front just

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-30236151526298579462009-04-09T07:46:00.001-07:002009-04-09T08:16:31.159-07:00

With spring and Easter rolling in, I have been busy but finally yesterday I was able to visit to the Lancome counter at Macy's. My struggle with dry skin has increased since spring weather changes. So my goal was to get some moisturizing face wash. The sales lady, Vivienne (who was a doll, by the way!) hooked me up with Gelatee Confort. A milky cream, it takes a dab about the size of a nickel

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-21780571343663075452009-03-16T17:45:00.000-07:002009-03-16T18:04:10.119-07:00

I have been obsessively into eyeshadow palettes. So far I only have two new ones but I can tell that this is a slippery slope between 2 and 20. I splurged last pay day and bought the Stila Precious Pearls Palette. At Sephora, it retails for $40 which seems high but I looked at all the colors and thought, "YES!" I needed a palette with fresh spring colors and the beautiful shell tiled compact

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-77317221471133947882009-02-22T12:17:00.001-08:002009-02-22T12:51:53.855-08:00

I am on the hunt. I just scraped bottom with both of my Dior blushes. There are so many wonderful choices that I am turning to my two loyal readers to ask for feedback. First, let me start with some information about me. One of my loyal readers and seen me in person so she is familiar with the skin. The other has not. I have pale skin. Typically, I use very light foundation. During the

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-35233347612243233312009-02-22T11:26:00.001-08:002009-02-22T12:12:16.080-08:00

Obtaining crease-less, long-lasting eyeshadow is like searching for the Holy Grail. It just may be a myth created by beautiful airbrushed models in advertisements. On the other hand, with a few helpful make-up aids, it may be closer than you think. Tired of creased oily eyeshadow that had lost it's luster at the end of the day, I began the search for a base. In the past, I have just used my

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-16601063666351457682009-02-15T08:48:00.000-08:002009-02-15T09:26:08.799-08:00

Apparently, Sephora does not want you to buy their new eye palette. I don't know why not because it's absolutely spectacular. But in the effort of writing this blog, it took me nearly five minutes of web searching on their site to find the Moroccan Sunrise Palette. This spread of five eyeshadows is just as pretty as it's name. Also just as surprising, these beautiful colors are not

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-19598941084665245552009-02-10T08:14:00.000-08:002009-02-10T09:56:16.187-08:00

My husband always asks me what I want for Valentine's Day. It always forces me to think of fashionable and loving items. Something to make me feel treasured. I never ask for much (my birthday is just two weeks prior to V-day and he spoils me on that day). But here's a few lovely gifts that I think ANY fashionista would enjoy.The Kate Spade "Red Letter Day" bracelet is a memorable way to show

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-42836971587841020872009-02-01T14:35:00.000-08:002009-02-01T15:23:58.732-08:00

I have heard mixed reviews about Lush. So when I popped into one of their stores this weekend, I was already slightly jaded. If you are a Lush fan, I can understand why. They have eye-popping, mouth-watering treats in each window. The huge cakes of soap look just like that....cake. Even their smaller treats look like cookies or french meringues so it's no wonder that they do a steady

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-65367688337723334582009-01-25T14:46:00.000-08:002009-01-25T15:13:09.239-08:00

There are so few fashionable intelligent shows on television now. Women's programming is being pushed aside for reality madness or sci-fi-horror combos. Nerd programs are delightful and fun like Chuck and Big Bang Theory. But when I want stilettos and tear inducing drama, I turn to Lipstick Jungle. There are very few shows on major networks today that deal with women's issues. Most are

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-56461945032456744322009-01-25T14:07:00.000-08:002009-01-25T14:36:24.382-08:00

This is the strangest looking mascara wand that I have ever used. But about the time that the oscillating mascara wands came out, I was actually buying Givenchy's Phenomen'Eyes mascara. Mostly because I'd run completely out of mascara and had no choice. Also, because (truth be told) those oscillating wands scare the holy heck out of me! Even if I did want one, all of you fashionistas know

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-50141612995660069512009-01-25T09:25:00.000-08:002009-01-25T13:48:28.222-08:00

Picture me on Christmas day. Long flowing hair down to the middle of my back. Barrel curls ala Blair Waldorf of Gossip Girl fame casually held back by a tweed and emerald green velvet headband. But my long layers were growing a bit unruly. My barrel curls were becoming a bit harder to maintain so it was time for a trim. In July, I found the perfect stylist. We had a mind meld in the salon.

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-41131741529552382062008-09-20T09:35:00.000-07:002008-09-20T10:00:03.711-07:00

The other day as I was leaving to work, I opened the door to find the classiest looking box sitting on my doorstep. As the gusts of fall have settled in, I have started to look to more complex scents - heavier and darker. Nestled in chic bronze tissue was a luscious dark chocolate colored box with crocodile leather texture and glossy gold lettering that read, Ralph Lauren Notorious. The

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-10333654574487213962008-09-09T17:23:00.000-07:002008-09-09T19:12:40.286-07:00

There are a few mainstream grocery cosmetics brands that I enjoy and feel have high standards in their reasonable products. Revlon is one of those brands. My mother worked at Revlon back in the 60's. She always carried a positive view of the company so when I first started using cosmetics Revlon was one of my primary products upon her encouragement. I have been a huge fan of the lipsticks and

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-63301263804049340922008-09-06T19:54:00.000-07:002008-09-06T20:08:06.025-07:00

When the OPI/Sephora colors hit the market at the beginning of this month, I was hyped up. While shopping last weekend, I planned to grab a few hot colors to jazz up my fall look. I had a list in mind but was thwarted by EMPTY shelves. So I hopped online to place an order. Here are a few of my goodies that are in transit. Can't wait to see how they look!Of course, I had to pick up this one,

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-25735396711557870842008-08-17T15:17:00.001-07:002008-08-17T15:19:12.316-07:00

On my toes only (and looking adorable I might add).OPI Kangarooby - and oldie but a goodie!

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-46546321643756680022008-08-17T11:37:00.001-07:002008-08-17T13:07:11.375-07:00

Sometimes I am overly simplistic whether it is for reasons that are really simple or just laziness, who knows? But for years I used dish soap to wash my hands. Since I was already at the sink doing the dishes or cooking dinner, it was just easier. But dish soaps takes a toll on hands and doesn't always cut into odors such as that garlic you just minced to bits. Frustrated and tired of

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-39234123890854634272008-08-17T10:42:00.000-07:002008-08-17T10:58:28.792-07:00

Just a note that eggs are used in this dish and while they may get hot, it will not be enough to cook them to a safe temperature. It is best not to serve this dish to children, elderly, and immune system compromised adults.This recipe makes two adult sized portions (covers the plate) or four side portions.1/2 package spaghetti (I use Trader Joe's organic pasta OR Barilla Multi-grain pasta - not

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-19140759787616490982008-08-16T18:03:00.000-07:002008-08-16T20:14:26.098-07:00

It occurred to me the other day that I should keep a list of movies that fashionistas would enjoy. I don't mean the obvious ones that are necessarily about the fashion world (although I do plan to add a category for those). There are so many movies that have fantastic costume design, gorgeous sets, style that is just eye candy for a fashionista. Never mind plot when you can drool over fabulous

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-39861796489335259822008-08-07T19:06:00.000-07:002008-08-07T19:34:07.906-07:00

If you haven't yet seen the September edition of ELLE, you are in for a treat. In fact, I felt as thought I'd been sucked into the black hole labeled "Job Site". Jessica Simpson graces the front cover in what can only be termed a Lumberjack shirt. She has been poured into jeans that are probably at least a size too small (not to mention the shirt which has to be at least two sizes too small).

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-75207478954087763442008-08-04T11:48:00.000-07:002008-08-04T12:05:25.543-07:00

This bean soup is great with croutons floating in the top. And it is so easy, it's hard to believe that it tastes this great.1 can of ready cut Italian tomatoes (drained in a sieve)2 cans of white beans (drained in a sieve)1 container (I buy the large soft sided ones) of chicken broth (I use Trader Joes, Wolfgang Puck, or any other quality broth)1 packet of thinly sliced prosciutto or other

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6426932986329870520.post-80534529816802962182008-07-23T07:27:00.000-07:002008-07-23T07:38:32.634-07:00

While vacationing in New York this last week, we had many opportunities to be in unfamiliar streets, looking for landmarks, addresses, or stores. In the 90+ degree heat, it was exhausting and most often frustrating. New York has this capacity for hiding things. As I would walk down the street from door to door, I would look for any marker to give me a clue as to what I was looking for but

Cadencehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10917652964572472670noreply@blogger.com0