STUFFED CLOSET

Holding My Breath....

2011-10-29T18:18:00.000-07:00

Until November 1 when the much anticipated Lou Reed & Metallica team up album releases...

Lust...

2011-10-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

Sam Edelman Renzo Ankle Bootie $250

You will be mine....after you go on sale....

Music Video Break Day

2011-10-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Music Video Break

2011-10-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

Wha't On The Menu....

2011-10-08T16:10:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful that autumn is finally here. I see the cooler weather and pending holidays as opportunities to plan, cook and share meals with family and friends. And now with over a 1,000 plus vintage restaurant menus available via the New York Public Library site at my fingertips I know there will be no lack of inspiration.

http://menus.nypl.org/

Library staff and volunteers are still busy scanning and transcribing the over 40,000 menus that were tucked away in the rare-book room...and the season has only begun....

P.S. - They are asking for volunteers to help as well!!

Movie of the Moment

2011-10-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

LOL!!

2011-09-24T19:41:00.001-07:00

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-11T07:03:00.000-07:00

Not your typical remembrance post but this one goes out to

Manuell Del Valle Jr

You will always be remembered

May you and all those who lost their lives that day rest in peace

Music Video Break Day

2011-08-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Today's Though...

2011-08-25T18:10:00.001-07:00

I will call into the past far back to the beginning of time and beg them, my ancestors, to come. I will reach back and draw them into me and they must come. For at this moment I am the whole reason they have existed at all.

~ Amistad

Ramadan Mubarak to friends and family that celebrate

2011-08-01T04:04:00.000-07:00

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan

It's A Family Affair...

2011-07-21T04:46:00.000-07:00

Well readers this weekend is the Rickert Family Reunion. The first of its kind. My cousins and I, the Reunion Committee, have spent months sorting and finalizing details.

This Friday we will head over to the WEEKSVILLE HERITAGE SITE (http://www.weeksvillesociety.org/ ) where my great grandparents lived.The staff has helped us plan the visit and for many it will be a home coming and for some a lesson in our family history.

On Saturday close to 200 family members (about 1/6 of the total count of that tree at this time) will come together at Hechscher State Park ( http://www.longislandexchange.com/parks/heckscher-statepark.html ) to enjoy a day of food (AND OOOOOH there will be food!), games and family. We will share and record family stories, collect data to add to the family tree and take photos so to leave a trail for family to come.

My family has been here, in the US, in New York, in Brooklyn since the late 1700s. We have stories, records, proof of who we are and where we came from. Many of our family members are just learning of our rich heritage and the reunion is a chance to share it. Planning this event was a promise made to my great grandmother long ago. So Nana Rickert, we did it!

Video Music Break

2011-07-19T13:53:00.001-07:00

LEGO to the Bronx Zoo

2011-07-16T04:39:00.000-07:00

this summer to oooh and aaaaaaaah at the LEGO creations after we ooooooh and aaaaaaaaaah at the real wild life exhibits.....

http://www.bronxzoo.com/plan-your-trip/events-calendar/zoofari.aspx

Recent Lesson #1

2011-07-14T04:06:00.000-07:00

I have learned to say I am sorry and I have learned to say those words when I truly mean them instead of using them to pacify the person or situation at hand. I have also learned to say that I don't understand what I have said or done wrong instead of apologizing for something I truly don't feel sorry for in hope that a lesson can be learned. Sometimes those apologies are for refusing to accept anything less than what I want in my life. My refusal to take less than what I want isn't about having material goods, it is about being treated with respect and honesty and taking action to define the perimeters which will bring those two things and better into my life. This may sound arrogant but it is not meant to be presented that way. Instead consider it a truth presented in a direct and as-it-is manner.

Recently I met someone who I was truly attracted to. Unfortunately he and I approached each other in ways that clashed. The sexual energy and familiarity was intense but our cultures, experiences and personalities definitely played a heavy hand in our interaction. Despite the attraction like water and oil we did not mix well. We communicated differently, had different understandings of what we were gifted with was and because of the easy familiarity we felt toward each other fell into comfortable behavior that reflected our past relationships and issues.

It was brief and intense encounter and a situation in which I had to say no to pretty early on or chance trying to conform both myself and his will to what I want rather than who and what we are. I can admit this and accept that it was over before it truly began. It doesn't mean I am not affected by what happened. It doesn't mean that I don't feel a series of emotions tied to the loss of possibility and a person that I shared such an intense connection with. I know some of you reading this may be thinking "she didn't give it a chance, relationships are about compromise" but in the end those in that relationship should hold the same definitions of a relationship and of the roles we each play in it as a guide to where they are going together. We did not.

Trust me, this admission doesn't make me happy but to be honest it doesn't make me sad either, but it does feel right. There is no need for apologies from either of us.

Still Breathing....

2011-07-12T04:18:00.000-07:00

All Images © Simone Rene 2011

Sorry readers (those of you still out there), I find myself less inclined to consider trends and bargains these days. Instead I am trying to be in the moment with those who choose to share their moments with me. I am still knee deep in sorting the continued journey of my life. I continue to cull and let go of things and people with intent and purpose. And because of this continued effort life has taken on a bit of the simplicity that I have been yearning for; I am grateful.

Of course I am not totally free from the complexity and drama but for some reason I am more willing to remove myself from the craziness that can overshadow and distract me from the act of doing and being. Instead of being part of the play I am learning to say my truth, stand or leave and let what will come of it come. And it isn't easy. I am constantly "talking" to myself, reminding myself that it is OK not to buy that item just yet; it's OK not to allow someone in my life for more than the moment shared; it's OK to just lean into the moment in solitude and silence; It's OK to just be.

Enjoy Your Day!

hmmmmm

2011-07-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

Still Sorting...

2011-06-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

All Images © Simone Rene 2011

Since moving to the Bayridge area I find myself taking 3 mile walks along the water way off of Shore Road at least 5 days out of the week- see photo from tonight's walk. Exercise aside moving along the stretch of space aside the ocean is helping me to keep my mind clear. And that clarity is allowing me to focus on my intent - to create and live a simple and fulfilling life.

Just Resurfacing...

2011-06-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

All Images © Simone Rene 2011

Hello Readers, it looks like I have under estimated the time and attention it takes to be in a new space. There's still a lot to do so for now I am sharing the view along Shore Road...

1st Saturday...

2011-05-14T06:01:00.000-07:00

I hope this post finds all of you well. I am finally in my new apartment. This is the first Saturday since knowing I have had to move that I am relaxing at this page with a cup of coffee while still in my PJs. There are still boxes and lots of organizing to do but I am home.

After dealing with the stress of finding a new place, packing and physically transferring it all actually arriving at this new point in my life is like having a new opportunity to begin again. Being in a new smaller, better planned space has forced me to ask questions like "Do I really need 4 different styles of coffee makers regardless of how good they look lined up on the kitchen shelf? " "What colors am I truly drawn to over and over again and why am I not accepting this natural attraction?" "Why do I have 6 different types of cleaners that all promise to disinfect and leave my home fresh and sparkling?" "Why do I constantly consider small storage options that splitter my organizing system rather than just buy or work with a carpenter to make a unit that can incompass at least one creative direction of my life?" "Despite constantly downsizing my wardrobe and accessories do I truly need 4 black cardigen sweaters, 10 pairs of sandals, 15 black bags?"

Let's face it. I love to shop. Coming across a creative solution at a bargain is a beautiful thing but I have come to realize I also need to accept there are certain things I need to do in order to free up both space and time in my life. I need to focus in on what things I am constantly drawn to and using. I need to use the things that I have and find security and strength in my style regardless of what's going on in the Fashion, Accessories and Home Good World.

Here are a few simple things I have held onto -

Farberware Classic Yosemite 8 Cup Stainless Steel Percolator

(Sorry most electric coffee makers don't get the water hot enough to release the true flavor of the coffee and as wonderful as a French Press Coffee Maker is the coffee is meant to be consumed at the sitting. A percolator makes a piping hot cup of coffee that stays hot in the heat conducting metal, besides I put my coffee in a thermos that can keep it hot for up to 10 hours without turning it bitter)

Windex Multi-Surface Antibacterial Cleaner

(I purchased this product out of need - I had packed all my other cleaning crap away - and I can tell you for a quick daily wipe up it's great.)

Simple Green "All Natural" Concentrated All Purpose Cleaner

(I dilute it into 2 separate spray bottles for the tougher jobs)

Reveal Spray Mop & Dust System

( The refillable bottle allows me to use the cleaning solutions I have and the replaceable pads can be thrown in the washing machine.)

More to come...stay tuned...

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-04-28T03:46:00.000-07:00

on a Thursday...
It's be a changing few weeks. The movers arrive tomorrow morning at 8AM. I am packed and ready knowing there are more changes on the way. Knowing this both excites and frightens me but I am ready....

Music Video Break Day

2011-04-15T03:07:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-04-15T03:05:00.000-07:00

on a Friday....

I hope everyone is well.

After weeks of searching I have finally found a one bedroom apartment that I can call home. Along the way I accumlated horror and adventure stories that will one day make me laugh. More importantly I learned how supported I am by those I love.

I hope to be back to these pages soon...I am almost home!

Music Video Break Day

2011-04-07T18:15:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-04-05T05:11:00.000-07:00

I have been away from these pages for a few days, but it doesn't mean that I am not thinking of them. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately, searching for an apartment, packing and trying to sort lifes other learning lessons are my current priorities and the only reason I have been able to find a few minutes to share is because I took today off in order to pack, stroll neighborhoods in Brooklyn and run errands.

I will take these few moments to admit that I find myself uneasy with the current change. I know that this discomfort is natural and that as I continue to plot forward it will ease and things will sort themselves out as they are meant to be.....

Photoshop...

2011-03-28T04:05:00.000-07:00

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-27T03:19:00.000-07:00

It Must Be Spring...

2011-03-26T03:13:00.000-07:00

Vogue's Spring Pattern Line Has Arrive

click on title to go to new pattern page

(I have my eye on this one...)

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-25T03:19:00.000-07:00

at the Skoto Gallery...

2011-03-24T04:26:00.000-07:00

Aime Mpane'

ERASED

March 10 - April 9, 2011

Please get yourself to the Skoto Gallery before this show closes.

A bit of the press release -

"Aimé Mpané’s work embodies the pain and grace of human conflict drawn from an informed political consciousness and awareness of Africa’s colonial history. His work indicts the social and political reality around him, a reality shaped by a perspective wrought out of his ability to express universal human emotions, deep understanding of the aesthetic and cultural character of the African continent and an abiding interest in redefining the relationship between reality and art. The history of his homeland - Democratic Republic of Congo – with memory of the brutalities instigated during the 19th century by King Leopold II of Belgium, continuing through the legacy of colonialism and the ensuing ravages of war and economic missteps in the postcolonial period is emblematic in this sense, revealing deep tragic outcome on the Congolese people in which trauma and the memory of trauma are central."

click on title to go to gallery site

Last Days...

2011-03-24T04:15:00.000-07:00

The Metropolitan Museum of Art's

Rugs and Ritual in Tibetan Buddhism

Ends on March 27, 2011

click on title for details before running there!

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-23T04:21:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-03-22T04:38:00.000-07:00

After living a 1000 years in this apartment I will have to move. The owners are selling. To be honest I have wanted change for a long while (be careful what you wish for!) and have hesitated to grasp at relocation as one of those changes because of the security living here has given me. My landloards have been very good to me but it is time to move on.

And as all of you know moving isn't easy. Sorting and packing is just the process of reviewing your life's "work". It is time consuming, tiresome and sometimes frightening because in addition to sorting the past and the present you. must also sort your future and decide where you want to be next. This isn't new to me. It is something I have been doing for years, just read some past blog posts!, but now the need to determine what I must bring with me, what I will donate, sell or give away is pushing the process to the extreme. Perhaps the universe got tired of my tedious work and decided to force me to fast forward the culling?

And the cost of moving in NY is tremedous. Accumulating 3 months rent plus moving expenses either takes years or just weeks of scraping it all together. Having all the money at one pop is a true temptation - I CAN DO ANYTHING within the constraints of the value of that money. I can run away to Europe and spend a few months of frugal living. I can move out of New York to an area that is less expensive and in doing so redefine my life within those financial perimeters. Or I can do what I plan to do; find an apartment in my beloved Brooklyn that will act as home base and continue to define the life I am living here and now....going to pack for a bit.

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-21T03:57:00.000-07:00

(note new format!)

Cover Up

2011-03-20T02:51:00.000-07:00

100 years ago I found a chair, I dragged it home, cleaned and quickly covered it with some linen from my fabric stash- see below - because I was a little intimidated by the thought of refinishing it in a major way.

Fast forward to this weekend when I decided to take a drastic step and paint and recover it so that it fits in better with the recent redecorating.

So off came the fabric and muslin and out came the drop cloth, black paint and sponge paint rollers and brush, batting, staple gun, scissors, hammer, tacks and the large piece of hot pink leather I found on the give away pile at work.

I'm going cover a small back pillow with a piece of the fabric I recovered the headboard with.

When I first found the chair I had this fear that if I attempted a major makeover that I would ruin it. I loved its shape and after living with it and using it almost daily I knew I wanted to keep it but in order to do so it would have to be tied in with the new decor. That meant I would have to push pass that fear and just go for it. It wasn't easy. I toyed with just buying a new chair in a color and fabric that was ready to fit in but as I was worked on the chair I had, the chair I loved, I realized that even if I "ruined" it that it would be ok because I had made the choice to try.

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-19T02:44:00.000-07:00

click on title

Daimonds and Other Jewels Are A Girl's Best Friend..

2011-03-18T03:10:00.000-07:00

If you believe this you may want to check out the

Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels

February 18–June 5, 2011

at

The Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum

click on title for details

If You Want Me...Just Whistle...

2011-03-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Tea Kettles have a short shelf life in my family, but this Michael Graves for Target whistling tea kettle might live longer than most because I suspect most of us would prefer to showcase it rather than use it to boil tea water.

The Spinning Tea Kettle Available at Target

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-17T02:55:00.000-07:00

click on title

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-16T16:17:00.001-07:00

Help the Victims of the Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami

2011-03-16T04:49:00.000-07:00

Go to The Red Cross Blog to read how they have and plan to help.

http://redcrosspdx.blogspot.com/2011/03/how-we-are-helping-after-japan.html

or click on the title to go directly to the Red Cross page

Even the smallest contribution helps

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-03-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

I can't stop thinking about what is happening in Japan. I can't stop sending up small prayers with large concerns for those in the midst of the devastation...

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

click on title

Got You Covered...

2011-03-14T03:19:00.000-07:00

I needed a small area rug to place underneath the small coffee table in my small living room area. After months of hunting for something larger than 2' x 4' but smaller than a 3' x 5' and neutral but with flair I was about to give up when inspired by the new trend of painted oil-cloth floor throws I decided to turn to my fabric stash and custom make something instead.

The Photo above doesn't doesn't do my little homemade beauty justice.

The fabric is a piece of heavy weight rubber backed upholstery fabric in a neutral oatmeal color that I have had for years. I cut it to the desired size, sewed navy blue bias tape to all for sized, used hem tape to
iron it down into place, hand mitered the corners and finished it off with a blue top stitch.

It was quick and easy to make and when I grow bored with it I can turn it into something else. I am already thinking about stenciling it....

click on title for no swearing bias tape lesson

(Please ignore the 2 plain beige chairs. I am currently recovering them with some more fabric from my fabric stash - which is large enough to dress a small Brooklyn neighborhood for a month..)

Danger, Danger, Curves Ahead

2011-03-14T03:13:00.000-07:00

Since their August 2010 introduction over 1,000,000 women have purchased

Levi's Curve ID Jeans

These jeans are made to fit our curves. They come in a variety of leg widths and finishes and with 4 basic silhouettes that took the scans of over 60,000 women's bodies to create it means that one is bound to flatter your best assets.

Jeans start at about $40.00 a pair, which means that for the price of a pair of "designer" brand jeans you can buy one for almost every day of the week.

I'm loving the bold curve in broken dark and tea time finishes

Check out JC Penny, Kohls or Macys

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-13T03:04:00.000-07:00

click on title

Movie of the Moment

2011-03-12T03:14:00.000-08:00

A Complete Nail Wardrobe

2011-03-12T03:06:00.000-08:00

I must admit I am not a fancy mani-pedi kind of girl. Unless it's for a specific event I either buff or clear polish. A colored nail is too much of a distraction for me, I can not help but pick at it but I love the idea of being able to have nails that are individual little canvases. Of course the artistic pedicure isn't new but to be able to peel and place the art on a clean nail within minutes on my own is. Sally Hansen offers just that. Salon Effect Real Nail Polish Strips comes in 24 styles, some of which are tame enough to wear to work, and if you follow directions can give you a fancy mani that can last up to 10 days.

Check Out Your Local Drugstores Before All The Ebayers Buy Them All Up!

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-11T02:58:00.000-08:00

click on title

Punked

2011-03-10T03:13:00.000-08:00

Back in my College days I wore a lot of shirts, skirts and dresses that looked like this Balmain top. The ones I wore were usually accompanied by a motorcycle jacket and a pair of steele toed combat boots that I still mourn, the steele "cage" was on the outsides of the boots but I digress.

Usually my shirts and dresses started out like this - an oversized long sleeved black t-shirt. (Sometimes if the shirt was large enough I cut the bottom off to make a quick mini-skirt and top.)

And a box of safety pins purchased from the 24 hour drug store near my apartment

And a razor blade I brought from the same drug store

and my sewing scissors

In the end the whole outfit (sans jacket and boots) usually cost me well under $10, unlike the $1,600 Balmain Cotton Top with Safety Pins I've shown as reference.

For Your Consideration...

2011-03-10T02:57:00.000-08:00

The above faux leather wedge sandal is a Christian Siriano design for Payless

click on title for details, but I suggest you head into the stores to see if it's the quality or the designer's name that is the reason for Payless' increase in pricing.

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-09T02:57:00.000-08:00

click on title

Laissez le Bon temp rouler!

2011-03-08T10:19:00.000-08:00

(Let The Good Times Roll!)

Happy Mardi Gras!

Writer's Who Inspire

2011-03-08T03:00:00.000-08:00

Our lives are stories waiting to be told. They are memories waiting to become words on pages to be read. Following is a short list of writers whose stories have inspired me through the years.

Octavia Bulter

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Octavia_E._Butler )

Jorge Amado

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jorge_Amado )

Cristina Garcia

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cristina_Garc%C3%ADa )

Amy Tan

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amy_Tan)

Herbert Selby Jr

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubert_Selby,_Jr.)

James Baldwin

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Baldwin )

Nora Neale Hurston

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zora_Neale_Hurston )

Louise Erdich

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louise_Erdrich )

James Joyce

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Joyce )

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-03-08T02:53:00.000-08:00

I have come to the point in my life where I understand that I need as much support and encouragement as I give. Perhaps it has something to do with coming of age, or at least my age, because a number of my peers have recently voiced the same realization. Despite understanding this desire we all find our selves in the same conundrum - How do we do undo years of giving without requesting anything in return? How do you shift yourself and your life so that you can let go of what and who doesn't support you in the way you need while at the same time being readily open to those who will? And when the change comes, because if you ask you shall receive, how do you push pass the discomfort of being the receiver and humbly accept the gift of support and encouragement without allowing your fear to screw it all up? And in the end when you do screw up, because you will, how do you find the courage to forgive yourself and continue on in your quest?

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-07T02:55:00.000-08:00

click on title

Color Moves:

2011-03-06T04:05:00.000-08:00

Art & Fashion by Sonia Delauney

March 18–June 5, 2011

The Cooper-Hewitt

click on title for more details on an exhibition that explores the contribution to fashion this known abstract artist made.

Do Over

2011-03-06T01:55:00.000-08:00

Way back when I posted an entry about making a headboard using a Martha Stewart shower curtain, some stretcher bars from Utrecht Art Supply, batting and a staple gun - see below. The bold graphics paired with the hot pink worked but I found it too graphic for me...

This weekend I spent all of 20 minutes recovering the headboard - see below.

I found the fabric ($3.50/yd) at one of my favorite haunts, Fulton Fabrics, 398 Bridge Street. I've posted about them before. They are the last remaining fabric store off the Fulton Street Mall. They carry a lot of upholstery fabrics and some interesting rayon print, perfect for 1940 style dresses, but all of their fabrics are ends, the left overs from previous seasons. To be honest it's either hit or miss but that's part of the fun.

(Ignore the home-made printer's box side table - it's a work in progress - I am still deciding if I should paint it black or antique silver )

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-05T03:06:00.000-08:00

click on title

Easy As 1, 2, 3....

2011-03-04T03:30:00.000-08:00

This season's Tommy Hilfiger Trenchcoat comes apart for 3 classic looks.

The 3 in 1 coat is under $200

Check in with with your local Macy's for availability.

Fit To Be Tied..

2011-03-04T03:05:00.000-08:00

This great little Norma Kamali front tied dress is a classic

(Stripe or Black Cotton)

They're only available at Walmart Stores

Pssssst and they're only $20 each .....

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-03T03:12:00.000-08:00

click on title

My Inspiration

2011-03-02T03:21:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been thinking alot about the solitary process of making art and when I think about art I find myself considering those visual artists that inspire me to work.

Following is a short list of those whom I adore. Rather than show you their art I thought I would share with you their person and let you choose to investigate their gifts to the world.

Be careful, you may fall in love.

Fritz Scholder

(http://fritzscholder.com/)

Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson

( http://www.aminahsworld.org/ )

Hundertwasser

( http://www.hundertwasser.at/english/hundertwasser/hwueberhw.php )

Romare Bearden

(http://www.beardenfoundation.org/index2.shtml )

Lenore Tawney

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lenore_Tawney )

Wilfredo Lam

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wifredo_Lam )

William H Johnson

( http://www.whjohnsongrant.org/whjohnson.html )

Movie of the Moment

2011-03-02T03:07:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-03-01T03:23:00.000-08:00

I have had the opportunity to befriend those seeking acknowledgement for their art. I have found it hard to distinguish between the sincere extension of friendship and the networking involved in pushing yourself "out-there". Despite my confusion I usually open up and extend the same courtesy that I extend those who have no intentions other than just being friends. Then I let it work itself out because I have come to understand that sometimes we are placed in each other’s path for purposes and reasons we only know when it is time to know. In the end it will be what it will be.

Music Video Break Day

2011-03-01T02:54:00.000-08:00

click on title

Just In Time for Spring

2011-02-28T04:12:00.000-08:00

On March 13 Target presents

Go International Designer Collective -

A reissue collection of 34 designer name dresses coveted by many a fashionista during the last 5 years of Target's designer collaborative efforts.

Prices start at $24.99

Did You Know...

2011-02-28T03:54:00.000-08:00

That The International Center of Photography (NY) has Pay As You Wish Fridays?

(click on title to go to site for details)

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-27T09:00:00.001-08:00

click on title

A Weekend of Rest

2011-02-26T03:24:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago I found myself in Target on a Thursday night standing in front of the rows and rows of face creams, lotions and potions confused out of my mind.

In past posts I have claimed my love of Oil of Olay, I come from a long line of users, but in recent years the line has expanded beyond my ability to comprehend which item is right for me. And with all those options the line's pricing has increased so that I have no excuse not to move on and experiment.

That evening I finally decided to admit that time is marching on and that I need more than a moisturizer and sun block to fight off its effects. Luckily I am blessed with good genes and my skin is in pretty good shape but as they say "prevention is the best medicine" After reading almost every package in the aisle I decided on -

Garnier Ultra-Lift Daily Targeted Wrinkle Treatment

and

Garnier Ultra-Lift Anti Wrinkle Firming Eye Cream

I will be honest, I purchased them because they were on sale and because the packaging was small - uhm we all have our own methods of decision making - don't judge!

It's been a week since the purchase. I have used them as directed and though I have no great expectations of the promised vast "improvements" I am surpised with how soft and "firm" my skin feels. Just yesterday a work associate turned to me and asked me if I had a good dermatologist that I could share.

Items available in your local drugstores

(click on title for more info about the Garnier line)

I'm Baaaaaaaaaack...

2011-02-26T02:54:00.000-08:00

I have spent the past week trying to push pass this Winter. The cold season has been brutal this year and it's still with us though the hope of spring is within reach. But I am back with loads of stuff to share...stay tuned

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-25T02:48:00.000-08:00

click on title

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-23T02:47:00.000-08:00

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Music Video Break Day

2011-02-21T02:44:00.000-08:00

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Music Video Break Day

2011-02-19T02:43:00.000-08:00

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2011-02-18T03:22:00.001-08:00

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-17T03:07:00.000-08:00

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Movie of the Moment

2011-02-16T02:55:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-02-15T04:51:00.000-08:00

Time has a funny way of romanticizing our past. Sometimes we need to place people and events in such drastic light in order to move on and get over the end. Sometimes, with time and patience, we can stop and truly see who and what was in our lives as they were rather than as they needed to be. The more important thing is that if we are patient and forgiving with ourselves we can accept who and what was in our lives and be grateful even when gratitude seems too much.

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-15T03:16:00.000-08:00

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Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T04:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's Card...

2011-02-14T03:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've found a card

I found this one walking from the bus stop on Sunday

It Was A Soup Sunday...

2011-02-14T03:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I ventured out to Ikea. Though still cold in NY the weather was brisk and sunny. I enjoyed the afternoon and came home just in time to make one of my favorite quick and tasty soups.

I hope you try it -

Heat your soup pot over a medium flame

(I use my dutch oven)

Add 32 oz of low-sodium chicken stock

Allow to simmer

And one chicken breast, cleaned and thinly sliced

followed by 3 cloves of finely chopped garlic

Let simmer about 15-20 minutes

Skim any fat that floats to the top...almost there

Add 8 thinly sliced Shatiike Mushrooms

8 oz of soft tofu, cubed

(place soft tofu on paper towel about 15 minutes before cubing)

Plus 2 tablespoons of finely chopped ginger

2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro

1/2 cup sliced scallions

2 tablespoons of Soy Sauce (Low- Sodium!)

1 teaspoon ground pepper

Let simmer for another 10-15 minutes

Spoon into bowls

Now here's the part you CAN NOT forget

Squirt soup with fresh lime juice

(It's a MUST, the lime heightens all the wonderful flavors)

The soup is enough as is but I have added spinach, fresh chinese noodles, baby bok choy.

Enjoy!

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Waiting for Spring...

2011-02-12T08:23:00.000-08:00

Chrystie Street, February 2011

Laying in bed February 2011

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Oh La La...uhm...

2011-02-10T04:28:00.000-08:00

Finding and jacking a French sailor aside, replacing a French Sailor's Boatneck 3/4 Sleeve Shirt is harder than it might seem. I searched and searched until I found the perfect one on LL Bean's site. The ratio of white stripe to black stripe (slightly wider) is perfect and the fit sits without clinging..I will wait until late April to begin my search for the perfect white pant...

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Maybe..Just Maybe...

2011-02-10T03:39:00.000-08:00

posting a picture of Manolo Blahnik's Chierata shoe will warm me up a bit...I am so over this New York winter....

(Welcome back pretty...)

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Keeping An Eye On You...

2011-02-08T04:23:00.000-08:00

When I was 16 my grandmother passed me a hand made envelope so tiny I thought it was for my Barbie dolls, which I had stopped playing with years before. I opened it to reveal a blue eye encased in gold. It was smaller than a shirt button and hanging on a chain so delicate I feared handling it. My grandmother promptly instructed me to always wear this charm as protection and good luck. For years I religiously wore it never knowing that she had given me a part of my family's history.(click on title to read some history).

I am not certain if the recent trend of wearing an "Evil Eye" charm is still popular but the pieces I found on http://www.maxandchloe.com/ make me want to purchase a lot of protection...

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/10786/127 )

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/7622/53,118 )

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/3271/53,118 )

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/11837/53,118 )

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/11841/53,118 )

( http://www.maxandchloe.com/fulldetails/11836/53,118 )

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-02-08T03:07:00.000-08:00

Ask most American’s what they are rather than what they identify as and most will say “my mother’s family is this and my father’s family is that”. Explaining the complexity of our history can become tedious and boring to those who prefer the simplicity of pigeonholing everything and everyone. It is often easier for us to identify with one group and if the selection of that group cannot be determined by the hue of our skin, the skew of our features, the texture of our hair or the carry of our person who we identify as is often determined by our own selection. Because of this many multifaceted beings can “pass” without issue and most of us do.

And then there are those of us so mixed that we begin to reflect too many peoples and ideas. We proudly claim our heritage and refuse to allow others to make us be who we aren’t. We explore our history and accept our varied faiths and customs creating a personal story that makes us no more or less than those who hold fast to one claim. But because we refuse to define ourselves in a simple manner there are those who find us ambiguous enough that we given both the privilege and pain of being exposed to their prejudices and fears.

I have heard ethnic slurs, sometimes followed by “oh, excuse me; I hope I’m not offending you”. I have listened to the opinions of others in regard to “those-people’s” tendencies and behaviors as if embracing more means I am “neither/or” and gives me carte-blanche to their “privileged” thoughts. I have been shocked by comments of ignorance made in the name of religious beliefs and political views and I can tell you I am never grateful. I have had people befriend me believing that my choice to be “me” is exotic and odd and that I, not my friendship, would add to their bland collection of friends. And I always find myself shocked, angry and finally saddened by being privy to such behavior.

Sometimes I believe because of my ambiguity (“What are you anyway?” I mean, we’re all American”) I am seen as someone who can take these spiritual and emotional assaults but that is not the case. Each time I run across someone with such ingrained prejudicial views a part of me suffers for them as well as for those they have chosen to push outside their understanding and acceptance. Each time I am privy to others who believe that each of us has a place that is not based on personal choice but is based on the color of our skin, the ethnicities of our ancestors or the religious customs of our forefathers and mothers and that place is beneath theirs a part of me dies. And the fact that they often do so by by holding themselves superior in the belief that “those people” are the issue makes me even more angry and insulted.

I tire of discussing our similarities, the often linear history and development of our faiths, the mistreatment of all groups at the hands of the privileged and the current repetition of that history. I tire of trying to ease in understanding with hope that a wall will crack so that the choice of allowing it to crumble is easier than it was before. I have come to a point where all I can do is say a prayer for peace and understanding for all of us involved and move on in the best way I know how.

Sometimes it’s not easy, fate plays a cruel hand and forces me to be in the presence of those who wear their prejudices like shields far longer than I care to and must learn to stand without reaction while not being silent.

I still can’t decide if that lesson of tolerance is for me or for them.

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Net Yogi's

2011-02-06T03:13:00.000-08:00

I love yoga. After a few years of studio practice with some amazing teachers I now pratice on my own at home. I prefer the solitude and the opportunity to stay in poses as long as I like or can. I have no desire to achieve perfection. I just enjoy being able to silence myself and be in the moment. I try to mix it up and keep my practice as fresh and challenging as possible. I read books and magazines about yoga but like all constants in our lives lately I have been having the blahs about my time on the matte, that is until a friend turned me onto Yogaglo. A mimum monthly fee gives you access to a variety of yoga sessions that can be accessed based on teacher, style, level and/or length of session. They even offer a trial membership that gives you enough access to truly enjoy the site.

click on title to go to site.

Namaste

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Saturday, February 5

2011-02-04T04:48:00.000-08:00

It's National Nutella Day!!

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Target Free Sundays at

2011-02-04T03:08:00.000-08:00

The Studio Museum in Harlem 144 West 125th Street

(between Lenox Ave and Adam Clayton Powell Junior Blvd)
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Music Video Break Day

2011-02-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

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Recipe with Pomi

2011-02-02T03:01:00.000-08:00

Heat a skillet over a medium flame

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Once heated add 1 medium onion, diced, and

2-3 cloves finely chopped garlic, stir

Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh Rosemary to oil

Pour 1 box of Pomi's Marina Sauce (it's seasoned!)

Add 1-1/2 teaspoons of lightly salted capers

and 1 lb of a firm white fish fillet (I use cod) that has been

cleaned and cubed

Add 1 large or 2 small bay leaves

Cover and let cook for 15 minutes or so, fish should be flakey yet firm

Salt & Pepper to taste at the end

(watch the salt, the capers may add enough)

I have enjoyed this stew alone

with a crusty French bread

Over a hardy pasta

Over grits

Over polenta

Over rice

Added cleaned, cubed potatoes

(5 minutes before adding the fish)

Switched out the fish for cubed chicken breast

(cooked for 30 minutes)

Added cleaned shrimp and clams

(about 5-8 minutes before it was ready)

Added basil instead of Rosemary

Added diced olives

Sooo many options to play with..

Tuesday's Mental Musings

2011-02-01T03:07:00.000-08:00

We talk of peace as if it is so easy to achieve.

We talk and talk and talk and the days turn to years and the years into decades and centuries and still we don't do the one thing we each need to do to usher peace to our doors. We never let go of our egos.

Instead we believe that others are responsible for wars. We trust that discontent is only on the other side of where we live and don't see that pointing out "those people" causes separation and creates the very basic justifications of most wars - invasion.

We believe that the corruption that lives in our neighborhoods and the very institutions we support aren't the issue because they don't affect much.

We neglect to support and give to those in our communities believing that we aren't well off enough to "share" what we "don't" have and that they should know "better".

And when we do "share" we continue to help those far away from our day to day living because we believe they live beneath our standards and we are "privileged" enough to help them live a standard of life we believe they should.

But in my opinion our real crime against peace is that we never put aside our individual egos to see pass our fear of being wrong.

We hold strong to our national pride, social customs and ethnic traditions in the belief that doing so will guarantee that the "right side" will win and that the peace which materializes will be the peace we wanted.

We never leave room for interdependent living or for a path that will lead to the acceptance of others as they are not as we want them to be so the very idea of peace continues to remain elusive ...sigh..

Music Video Break Day

2011-02-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

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