As you can see, I'm busy today.
Happy Royal Wedding Friday!!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Thursday Thirteen - My makeup must-haves
"So now I want Sue to do a blog post with product recommendations because I bet she has great lip gloss and other stuff and is holding out on us."
That's what my friend tweeted over the weekend. If you want to see the whole string, you should really follow her on twitter. She's hilarious and smart and beautiful and has wonderful style. At Mel's request, I am happy to share what I've found.
First, let me warn you - I don't always buy cheap makeup. Why? Because I don't believe in throwing good money after bad. If I "save" by purchasing an inferior product - I've wasted money. I'd rather spend more and be happy with my results.
That doesn't mean I always buy the most expensive version, either. After 20+ years of wearing makeup, I've learned where (I think) you should splurge - and where it's okay to save. Here are thirteen of my favorite products and tips.
Tip - I know what you're thinking - what am I doing, painting a room? Building a foundation? Yes, that's exactly what you're doing. Once I started using this stuff, I realized it was an essential part of my makeup routine.
Product - You can spend upwards of $30 on a primer - or you can use a much less expensive version (like this one by Revlon) that will do the same thing. I've used both, and in this case, cheaper works just fine. So for about $11 at Target, you can save yourself time and money from reapplying other makeup 2-3 times a day.
Foundation:
Tip - It's the most misunderstood item in your makeup bag. It's not meant to conceal, so don't use anything darker than your skin. You want the same shade as your skin, or lighter - but no more than a shade.
Product - I like "self-adjusting" (one that blends with the actual color of your skin). It's very similar to tinted moisturizer - much lighter texture. The self-adjusting lotion I use is by Revlon, as well. Almay also makes a similar product.
Mascara:
Tip - It's all in the applicator. I've tried expensive (to the tune of $50 for a tube) and got the same results as if I spent $8.
Product - A few months back I found this little gem from L'oreal - a layer of shimmer to apply after your actual mascara. Love it - it's fun, without being too flashy.
Nails:
Tip - Always give yourself a pedicure if you're wearing open-toed shoes or sandals. Period.
Product - For those times when your pedicure is last-minute, and there's no time to dry your polish, this stuff is awesome.
Hair:
Tip - Don't skimp. There is a difference between discount and salon brands, no matter what the commercials with the French guy tell you.
Product(s) - I like this one to control frizz. It's expensive, but well worth it, and you don't need to use a whole lot, so it will last you a long time. I have a bottle right now that's over a year old. For texturizing/styling, I like this stuff and this stuff - they give body and style without a "crunchy" hold.
And as requested....
Lips - It's funny that in the dream, I handed Mel lip gloss - because I'm basically addicted to the stuff. I probably have about five lip gloss options on me at any one time. I have a whole drawer full of them in my bathroom, too. I have tubes that cost $25 - and I have those that cost $10.
If I were jumping out of a plane with a friend tomorrow, and she wanted to borrow my lip gloss - I'd be handing her this one from Neutrogena. It applies well, and has some good staying power for a gloss. It's also a natural color, so it doesn't give me that "made up" look.
 |
| Can I borrow your lip gloss? |
First, let me warn you - I don't always buy cheap makeup. Why? Because I don't believe in throwing good money after bad. If I "save" by purchasing an inferior product - I've wasted money. I'd rather spend more and be happy with my results.
That doesn't mean I always buy the most expensive version, either. After 20+ years of wearing makeup, I've learned where (I think) you should splurge - and where it's okay to save. Here are thirteen of my favorite products and tips.
**********************
Primer:Tip - I know what you're thinking - what am I doing, painting a room? Building a foundation? Yes, that's exactly what you're doing. Once I started using this stuff, I realized it was an essential part of my makeup routine.
Product - You can spend upwards of $30 on a primer - or you can use a much less expensive version (like this one by Revlon) that will do the same thing. I've used both, and in this case, cheaper works just fine. So for about $11 at Target, you can save yourself time and money from reapplying other makeup 2-3 times a day.
Foundation:
Tip - It's the most misunderstood item in your makeup bag. It's not meant to conceal, so don't use anything darker than your skin. You want the same shade as your skin, or lighter - but no more than a shade.
Product - I like "self-adjusting" (one that blends with the actual color of your skin). It's very similar to tinted moisturizer - much lighter texture. The self-adjusting lotion I use is by Revlon, as well. Almay also makes a similar product.
Mascara:
Product - A few months back I found this little gem from L'oreal - a layer of shimmer to apply after your actual mascara. Love it - it's fun, without being too flashy.
Nails:
Tip - Always give yourself a pedicure if you're wearing open-toed shoes or sandals. Period.
Product - For those times when your pedicure is last-minute, and there's no time to dry your polish, this stuff is awesome.
Hair:
Tip - Don't skimp. There is a difference between discount and salon brands, no matter what the commercials with the French guy tell you.
Product(s) - I like this one to control frizz. It's expensive, but well worth it, and you don't need to use a whole lot, so it will last you a long time. I have a bottle right now that's over a year old. For texturizing/styling, I like this stuff and this stuff - they give body and style without a "crunchy" hold.
And as requested....
Lips - It's funny that in the dream, I handed Mel lip gloss - because I'm basically addicted to the stuff. I probably have about five lip gloss options on me at any one time. I have a whole drawer full of them in my bathroom, too. I have tubes that cost $25 - and I have those that cost $10.
If I were jumping out of a plane with a friend tomorrow, and she wanted to borrow my lip gloss - I'd be handing her this one from Neutrogena. It applies well, and has some good staying power for a gloss. It's also a natural color, so it doesn't give me that "made up" look.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Royal (Wedding) Pain
Like I said over here - I have total Royal Wedding fever. I like the whole idea - the pomp, the circumstance, the traditions. The romance. The fashion.
Seems, though, that there's a growing contingency of people who have big issues with all the hype.
"Who cares? They're just another couple getting married."
"What an obscene amount of money to spend on a wedding!"
That money could be put to much better use; what a waste."
The thing is - the Royal Family is loaded. It's hard to estimate the family's actual worth because it's more than just a bank account. It's also land, and interests in the Bank of England. But they've got some cash, which means they can afford to put on this party - while still giving substantially to multiple charities. For them, the expense on this wedding isn't much different than if an average family dropped, say $10,000-$20,000.
As for the happy couple - it's not as though they're registered for appliances at Target. Anyone who wants to give them a gift can do so through the The Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton Charitable Gift Fund.
Some think that it's silly to make this big a deal over any wedding - when most end in divorce. But keep in mind - divorce statistics in other countries aren't necessarily what they are in the US. And divorce statistics among royals? Well....there really aren't any.
So, does that make it some silly fairy tale? I don't think so. Actually, I think it's the opposite. This isn't an arranged marriage, like many royals have had in the past. It's not being done to merge two families, or to solve a land dispute.
William and Catherine met in college. They fell in love. The dated, broke up and got back together. They've each taken time to establish their own life - and now, at twenty-nine years old, they are ready to commit to one another. My guess? They have as much chance as anyone else.
They just happen to be able to afford a really elaborate ceremony.
So why do people take such offense? I guess because it's in our nature to be upset when someone has something that we know could never be ours. Our reaction is to look for the flaws; to poke holes in the plan.
But that's sort of....rude, isn't it? I mean, they're a couple and they're in love and they're getting married. Shouldn't they have the right to celebrate that with family and friends, just like anyone else?
Well, anyway - I think so. I plan to celebrate with them - by getting up obscenely early on Friday, April 29 and tuning in to CNN or Eonline or wherever I can find the coverage I want to see.
In the meantime - stop messing with my happiness. You haters are turning into a royal pain.
Seems, though, that there's a growing contingency of people who have big issues with all the hype.
"Who cares? They're just another couple getting married."
"What an obscene amount of money to spend on a wedding!"
That money could be put to much better use; what a waste."
The thing is - the Royal Family is loaded. It's hard to estimate the family's actual worth because it's more than just a bank account. It's also land, and interests in the Bank of England. But they've got some cash, which means they can afford to put on this party - while still giving substantially to multiple charities. For them, the expense on this wedding isn't much different than if an average family dropped, say $10,000-$20,000.
As for the happy couple - it's not as though they're registered for appliances at Target. Anyone who wants to give them a gift can do so through the The Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton Charitable Gift Fund.
Some think that it's silly to make this big a deal over any wedding - when most end in divorce. But keep in mind - divorce statistics in other countries aren't necessarily what they are in the US. And divorce statistics among royals? Well....there really aren't any.
So, does that make it some silly fairy tale? I don't think so. Actually, I think it's the opposite. This isn't an arranged marriage, like many royals have had in the past. It's not being done to merge two families, or to solve a land dispute.
William and Catherine met in college. They fell in love. The dated, broke up and got back together. They've each taken time to establish their own life - and now, at twenty-nine years old, they are ready to commit to one another. My guess? They have as much chance as anyone else.
They just happen to be able to afford a really elaborate ceremony.
So why do people take such offense? I guess because it's in our nature to be upset when someone has something that we know could never be ours. Our reaction is to look for the flaws; to poke holes in the plan.
But that's sort of....rude, isn't it? I mean, they're a couple and they're in love and they're getting married. Shouldn't they have the right to celebrate that with family and friends, just like anyone else?
Well, anyway - I think so. I plan to celebrate with them - by getting up obscenely early on Friday, April 29 and tuning in to CNN or Eonline or wherever I can find the coverage I want to see.
In the meantime - stop messing with my happiness. You haters are turning into a royal pain.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Does fat mean unhealthy?
Last week, this article was shared by CurvyGirlTweets (which I actually missed, so a big thanks goes to my friend Sassy Singleton for retweeting).
The article is about plus-sized fashion models, who have become more of a main-stay in the fashion world in the last few years.You can read the whole article, but in a nutshell, it quotes two Italian doctors as saying:
I suppose, in a way, I get what they're saying. It's not a good idea to glorify any unhealthy lifestyle, especially when your audience includes impressionable young women.
But in order to achieve the look of some runway models, young girls engage in behavior that's just as unhealthy as being overweight. Anorexia and bulimia are every bit as detrimental.
So why are they viewed as less of an issue? Let's be honest - it has exactly zero to do with health.
Most plus-sized models are not unhealthy, and certainly not obese. They're taller (like most models) and have a bigger frame, and therefore their ideal weight (and dress size) is higher. In today's world, "plus" often starts at size 14, sometimes even 12. Many women will tell you they'd love to fit into those sizes. (According to just about every google result I found, 12 is the average in the US.)
Plus size models are well proportioned. Their hips, waist and bust may all be bigger, but they're not carrying extra weight. Which is perfectly healthy - and, many men will tell you, very attractive.
So if there's no real health issue with promoting this body-type, then what's the problem? Why do people still have an issue with overweight versus underweight?
Ignorance. We've been conditioned to believe that heavy = ugly. It must also mean that you're lazy, you're unfit and therefore boring, you don't care about yourself, and you're over-indulgent.
None of that is true. I call myself curvy or chubby, because it's honest. The truth is, my body is programmed not to lose weight. Could I if I tried? Maybe. I have in the past - though the only time I ever got below a size 12, it was in the most unhealthy way. When I stick to proper eating and exercise habits, the lowest I've gotten was a size 14 - and that was in my twenties. Now, I'm a 30-something who's never had a baby - something my body is designed to do - so my hips and waist, in particular, resist any weight-loss effort.
The real health issue we face is looking to anyone else for our ideal body type. Everyone is different, and the ideal for one person is not the same as the next. Labeling one person as the "goal" is where the problem starts. Chances are, you won't measure up. Once that happens, your self-esteem takes a hit - and then what? You either embrace an unhealthy lifestyle in order to achieve your goal - or you give up, stop caring and stop taking care of yourself.
We shouldn't have to choose between mental and physical health. Both are achievable.
The real goal should be to define what you want to be. What's healthy, and right, for you? How do you go about getting there? Then set about doing that. Stop comparing yourself to others. Find, and live up to, your own style and show off your own best features.
Be your best; and be happy with who you are. If we all did that, the world would be a much healthier place.
The article is about plus-sized fashion models, who have become more of a main-stay in the fashion world in the last few years.You can read the whole article, but in a nutshell, it quotes two Italian doctors as saying:
To promote chubby fashion models when obesity is one of the major problems of industrialized countries seems to be a paradox.I think Sassy said it best in her retweet: Are you f***ing kidding me?
 |
| He does not need this pressure. |
But in order to achieve the look of some runway models, young girls engage in behavior that's just as unhealthy as being overweight. Anorexia and bulimia are every bit as detrimental.
So why are they viewed as less of an issue? Let's be honest - it has exactly zero to do with health.
Most plus-sized models are not unhealthy, and certainly not obese. They're taller (like most models) and have a bigger frame, and therefore their ideal weight (and dress size) is higher. In today's world, "plus" often starts at size 14, sometimes even 12. Many women will tell you they'd love to fit into those sizes. (According to just about every google result I found, 12 is the average in the US.)
Plus size models are well proportioned. Their hips, waist and bust may all be bigger, but they're not carrying extra weight. Which is perfectly healthy - and, many men will tell you, very attractive.
So if there's no real health issue with promoting this body-type, then what's the problem? Why do people still have an issue with overweight versus underweight?
 |
| Call her fat. I dare you. |
None of that is true. I call myself curvy or chubby, because it's honest. The truth is, my body is programmed not to lose weight. Could I if I tried? Maybe. I have in the past - though the only time I ever got below a size 12, it was in the most unhealthy way. When I stick to proper eating and exercise habits, the lowest I've gotten was a size 14 - and that was in my twenties. Now, I'm a 30-something who's never had a baby - something my body is designed to do - so my hips and waist, in particular, resist any weight-loss effort.
The real health issue we face is looking to anyone else for our ideal body type. Everyone is different, and the ideal for one person is not the same as the next. Labeling one person as the "goal" is where the problem starts. Chances are, you won't measure up. Once that happens, your self-esteem takes a hit - and then what? You either embrace an unhealthy lifestyle in order to achieve your goal - or you give up, stop caring and stop taking care of yourself.
We shouldn't have to choose between mental and physical health. Both are achievable.
The real goal should be to define what you want to be. What's healthy, and right, for you? How do you go about getting there? Then set about doing that. Stop comparing yourself to others. Find, and live up to, your own style and show off your own best features.
Be your best; and be happy with who you are. If we all did that, the world would be a much healthier place.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Follow Friday Fun - Times Union Cat Blog
More shameless self-promotion....
You may know that I contribute to the Times Union Schenectady Blog. A couple of weeks ago, our fearless blogmaster sent out a call for bloggers to contribute to a couple of new blogs he was launching at the Times Union - one for dogs, the other for cats.
Some of you may know I was a dog-mom for a lot of years. Remy was like a child to X and me. He led a very happy life, and was only slightly spoiled. (Okay, fine - we bought a king-size bed so he'd be more comfortable, he was allowed to roam the house when we weren't home, and we let him sit on the couch and watch TV.)
Remy passed away in 2008, and I've not gotten another dog simply because my lifestyle doesn't lend itself to being a good dog-mom. But I'm still a cat-mom - and if you know me, you know that Pudge and Joe pretty much rule the roost around here.
So I thought contributing to the Cat Blog would be a lot of fun. I can share my stories with other cat moms (and dads) and maybe get a little reassurance that my two are, in fact, perfectly normal.
Or tips on how to deal with their insanity....
You may know that I contribute to the Times Union Schenectady Blog. A couple of weeks ago, our fearless blogmaster sent out a call for bloggers to contribute to a couple of new blogs he was launching at the Times Union - one for dogs, the other for cats.
 |
| Remy and me, February 2006 |
Remy passed away in 2008, and I've not gotten another dog simply because my lifestyle doesn't lend itself to being a good dog-mom. But I'm still a cat-mom - and if you know me, you know that Pudge and Joe pretty much rule the roost around here.
So I thought contributing to the Cat Blog would be a lot of fun. I can share my stories with other cat moms (and dads) and maybe get a little reassurance that my two are, in fact, perfectly normal.
Or tips on how to deal with their insanity....
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Thursday Thirteen: Yogi-isms
 |
| Isn't he cute? |
Here are just a few of my favorites - click here to read more. (And thanks to Cute~Ella for tweeting this list!)
- It's like deja vu all over again.
- You can observe a lot just by watching.
- If the world was perfect, it wouldn't be.
- The future ain't what it used to be.
- When you come to a fork in the road, take it.
- Never answer anonymous letters.
- Always go to other people's funerals, otherwise they won't come to yours.
- Half the lies they tell about me aren't true.
- It gets late early out there.
- (On baseball) 90% of the game is half mental.
- It ain't over til it's over.
- If you don't know where you're going, you might end up someplace else.
- I really didn't say everything I said.
*********
PS:
Happy Birthday to my Dad and my Cousin!!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Three-way mirror
I was at the mall this weekend, in search of this bloggers panel event that I'd been told about - but which was either canceled or very well-hidden. In any case, I took that as a sign that the universe really wanted me to have a new dress.
In my favorite store, I found this wonderful dress that was fun, pretty and feminine, without being frilly. I liked the shape, and it looked like it might be flattering on me. But I always worry, especially when it's a new style. My appearance is something I worry about constantly. I'm not the sort of woman who can wear just anything and look good - and I'm always afraid I don't quite measure up.
One of the things I like best about this store is the three-way mirrors in the dressing rooms. That way, I can make sure the outfit looks good okay from every angle. After all, we make impressions coming and going.
When I was ready, I brought my selections to the counter. The woman in front of me was (apparently) having some sort of fashion challenge and couldn't find what she needed in the store. Hey - I can relate. You try shopping for clothes when you're short and curvy. I need Indiana Jones as a personal shopper whenever I'm looking for jeans.
Anyway, I guess the woman was frustrated that neither this store, nor the other two in the area, had the item she wanted. Fine. But she was taking it out on the sales-clerk - which makes me uncomfortable. Then, she turned on me. She was very pretty. She definitely would not need Indy's help to find an outfit that would look nice on her. She gave me this nasty look, looked down at my purchases, and sneared - and of course, the ugly-duckling in me immediately felt this big.
Do you ever scratch your head at moments like these? I do.
I get it - problems and issues are frustrating. They distract us and we let them make us forget ourselves. We're all guilty of getting caught up in our little world sometimes. As though, if we have a problem and someone else doesn't - that somehow makes our problem that person's fault. That's ugly, though. I mean - it's not as though my actually finding a dress I like is the universe's way of punishing this woman. But there she was - blaming me for her troubles.
It's really too bad life didn't have a three-way mirror that could follow us around, and show us when our bad side is showing.
In my favorite store, I found this wonderful dress that was fun, pretty and feminine, without being frilly. I liked the shape, and it looked like it might be flattering on me. But I always worry, especially when it's a new style. My appearance is something I worry about constantly. I'm not the sort of woman who can wear just anything and look good - and I'm always afraid I don't quite measure up.
 |
| Does this make my butt look big? |
When I was ready, I brought my selections to the counter. The woman in front of me was (apparently) having some sort of fashion challenge and couldn't find what she needed in the store. Hey - I can relate. You try shopping for clothes when you're short and curvy. I need Indiana Jones as a personal shopper whenever I'm looking for jeans.
Anyway, I guess the woman was frustrated that neither this store, nor the other two in the area, had the item she wanted. Fine. But she was taking it out on the sales-clerk - which makes me uncomfortable. Then, she turned on me. She was very pretty. She definitely would not need Indy's help to find an outfit that would look nice on her. She gave me this nasty look, looked down at my purchases, and sneared - and of course, the ugly-duckling in me immediately felt this big.
Do you ever scratch your head at moments like these? I do.
I get it - problems and issues are frustrating. They distract us and we let them make us forget ourselves. We're all guilty of getting caught up in our little world sometimes. As though, if we have a problem and someone else doesn't - that somehow makes our problem that person's fault. That's ugly, though. I mean - it's not as though my actually finding a dress I like is the universe's way of punishing this woman. But there she was - blaming me for her troubles.
It's really too bad life didn't have a three-way mirror that could follow us around, and show us when our bad side is showing.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Adventures in cooking - chicken fettuccine alfredo
For whatever reason, I picked one of those frozen meal-in-a-bag type things last week at the supermarket. I had to have been shopping when I was either very tired, very hungry - or both. Thankfully, when I crawled out of bed, starving, at noon on Saturday, this questionable choice meant there was something to eat in the house.
The meal I chose included four parts: chicken, broccoli and mushrooms, alfredo sauce and fettuccine pasta. The instructions were:
It wasn't bad. Now I need advice on how to make alfredo sauce that is easy, and freezes well.
Why? Because I'm sure one of you makes a better sauce, which would improve this meal. I'm also sure it would be cheaper if I went the non-frozen route. Better still, I can add veggies that I really like, instead of always having to go with broccoli (and getting rid of the mushrooms that they included - blech).
So - have at it. How do I make a good alfredo sauce?
The meal I chose included four parts: chicken, broccoli and mushrooms, alfredo sauce and fettuccine pasta. The instructions were:
- Thaw pasta in a colander under cold water. Thaw alfredo sauce under warm water.
- Heat butter or olive oil in a pan, add chicken and vegetables and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Add pasta, then sauce. Stir until hot, then serve.
So that's what I did.
 |
| See? |
Why? Because I'm sure one of you makes a better sauce, which would improve this meal. I'm also sure it would be cheaper if I went the non-frozen route. Better still, I can add veggies that I really like, instead of always having to go with broccoli (and getting rid of the mushrooms that they included - blech).
So - have at it. How do I make a good alfredo sauce?
Friday, April 15, 2011
Follow Friday Fun - FUSSYlittleBLOG
When I was a little kid, I was considered a "picky" eater. I would rarely try anything new, and I would turn my nose up at something simply for the smell or texture. I'm still a little bit picky, and there are things I won't eat (like cooked carrots). But my tastes have changed, and I'm a little more adventurous than little-kid-Sue.
If you visit his site, you'll find that Daniel B. is all over the place. Of course you can find FLB on twitter and facebook. He also does regular food related post at the Times Union Guilderland Blog and All Over Albany, and you can check out his reviews on Yelp.
But as picky as I was, and can still be - I've got nothing on this guy.
If you're in the capital region and you like food - you really do need to be reading FUSSYlittleBLOG. In his own words, his mission is to "get more people to care about really good food." He wants to help change the perception; show why good food doesn't have to be expensive, and why sometimes what is expensive is also overrated. How? By sharing what is good - because he knows.
But don't get the idea that this site is all about restaurant reviews. It's about all things food related - including cocktails, wine, cappucino and coffee. Of course he talks about food - pizza and chicken and fish to name but a few. He talks about cooking, eating out and even delivery.
No matter the topic, the point is clear: good food is good for a reason, and should be appreciated. He finds, and tries, food that others might miss, and he shares the ups and downs with his readers. Like this post, Flecks of Gold, which was the first I read. Just random finds he made in 2010 of little-known, local culinary wonders.
Yum.
I'll admit - this blog is a little over my head, food-wise. If you know me, you're probably shocked I'm even aware that there are blogs about food. I guess that's sort of my point. I am guilty of falling into ruts, especially when it comes to food. I appreciate that someone takes the time to find what's truly good, and share what's worth my time and money - and what isn't. That's something you don't have to be a foodie to appreciate.
Daniel B. is also on a mission to better the local food scene through the FUSSYlittleBALLOT 2.0, his suggestions on how to vote in the Times Union Best of 2011 Survey. (SN: I support all his choices, save for best tweeter.)
If you visit his site, you'll find that Daniel B. is all over the place. Of course you can find FLB on twitter and facebook. He also does regular food related post at the Times Union Guilderland Blog and All Over Albany, and you can check out his reviews on Yelp.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Thursday Thirteen - Kids and proverbs
Another email....another thirteen worth noting. Some are really funny - especially since they (supposedly) came from first graders. Please note number thirteen. Happy Thursday!!
1 - It's always darkest before....daylight savings time.
2 - No news is....impossible.
c - A bird in the hand....is going to poop on you.
d - Children should be seen and not....spanked or grounded.
5 - Love all, trust....me.
6 - Two's company, three's...,the Musketeers.
g - If you lie down with dogs, you'll....stink in the morning.
h - A penny saved is....not much.
i - Don't bite the hand that....looks dirty.
10 - An idle mind is....the best way to relax.
k - Where there's smoke, there's....pollution.
l - When the blind lead the blind....get out of the way.
...and last but not least -
13 -Better late than....pregnant!
1 - It's always darkest before....daylight savings time.
2 - No news is....impossible.
c - A bird in the hand....is going to poop on you.
d - Children should be seen and not....spanked or grounded.
5 - Love all, trust....me.
6 - Two's company, three's...,the Musketeers.
g - If you lie down with dogs, you'll....stink in the morning.
h - A penny saved is....not much.
i - Don't bite the hand that....looks dirty.
10 - An idle mind is....the best way to relax.
k - Where there's smoke, there's....pollution.
l - When the blind lead the blind....get out of the way.
...and last but not least -
13 -Better late than....pregnant!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Brilliant Brunette....
....with many blonde moments.
I like to think of myself as smart. Mostly because I don't always think of myself as pretty. I figure brains are the universe's way of evening the score, right?
Not always, apparently.
I have made a semi-regular feature out of my best friend's blonde moments. In all fairness, I thought I should probably share several of my own, recent blonde moments. At least I know Cute~Ella will enjoy these stories.
* As I was leaving a hotel in Maryland, I was texting (maybe tweeting?), and not really paying attention. There were several cars pulled into the valet circle, and everyone drives an SUV these days... Can you guess where I'm going with this? The Rav4 is a lovely car, but it looks nothing like a CRV on the inside. The valets got a good chuckle, as did my cousin - all the way back to New York. In my defense, Billy did the same thing. 'Course he's 7 - but he's a very smart 7.
* When leaving the dealership on a recent visit, I paid my bill and exited the service area. I wandered, aimlessly, in the parking lot for a good five minutes before the service tech came outside, smiling, and asked if I was looking for my car. Yes, I said - turns out, I walked right by it parked in the service bay on my way out the door.
* Last week, I decided to cook (I know, I know....). While browning my ground sausage, I must have accidentally added some of the paper to the pan. More of a rookie mistake than a blonde moment, really...except you would have thought I'd notice the house filling with (and smelling of) smoke before it alarmed the neighbors. But if I can't even find my own car standing right next to me, how can I be expected to notice a little smoke?
Had any blonde moments lately?
I like to think of myself as smart. Mostly because I don't always think of myself as pretty. I figure brains are the universe's way of evening the score, right?
Not always, apparently.
I have made a semi-regular feature out of my best friend's blonde moments. In all fairness, I thought I should probably share several of my own, recent blonde moments. At least I know Cute~Ella will enjoy these stories.
* As I was leaving a hotel in Maryland, I was texting (maybe tweeting?), and not really paying attention. There were several cars pulled into the valet circle, and everyone drives an SUV these days... Can you guess where I'm going with this? The Rav4 is a lovely car, but it looks nothing like a CRV on the inside. The valets got a good chuckle, as did my cousin - all the way back to New York. In my defense, Billy did the same thing. 'Course he's 7 - but he's a very smart 7.
* When leaving the dealership on a recent visit, I paid my bill and exited the service area. I wandered, aimlessly, in the parking lot for a good five minutes before the service tech came outside, smiling, and asked if I was looking for my car. Yes, I said - turns out, I walked right by it parked in the service bay on my way out the door.
* Last week, I decided to cook (I know, I know....). While browning my ground sausage, I must have accidentally added some of the paper to the pan. More of a rookie mistake than a blonde moment, really...except you would have thought I'd notice the house filling with (and smelling of) smoke before it alarmed the neighbors. But if I can't even find my own car standing right next to me, how can I be expected to notice a little smoke?
Had any blonde moments lately?
Monday, April 11, 2011
Sex and the Standard
There we were...four single women, talking about life, love, work, sex and men. We were huddled at a table littered with to-go containers, half-eaten salad, martini and wine glasses, each nursing a glass of water.
I know so many women who think that's a waste. If you're single, you should be trying to meet someone - or you're just wasting time. Or I'm silly to hang out with, or take advice from, women younger than I who've never been married. Or they're silly to listen to me - someone who was never in their shoes.
That's the point, though, isn't it? Or it should be. We can listen, and laugh, and share. In the end, maybe we learned something brilliant; maybe we had a life-changing idea; or maybe we just had a really good meal and a really good laugh.
Which, in my opinion, could never be a waste of time.
 |
| Care to guess who's who? |
Seriously - all we were missing was a production crew from HBO and Christopher Noth.
We don't know each other that well; and we haven't known each other that long. We came to the table at different ages, with different interests, experiences, and from different places in life.
So what did we share? We're all friendly, fun, fabulous women looking for happiness. The conversation was bound to be good.
I know so many women who think that's a waste. If you're single, you should be trying to meet someone - or you're just wasting time. Or I'm silly to hang out with, or take advice from, women younger than I who've never been married. Or they're silly to listen to me - someone who was never in their shoes.
That's the point, though, isn't it? Or it should be. We can listen, and laugh, and share. In the end, maybe we learned something brilliant; maybe we had a life-changing idea; or maybe we just had a really good meal and a really good laugh.
Which, in my opinion, could never be a waste of time.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Follow Friday Fun - Times Union Survey
Today's Follow Friday is a departure from my usual format. I'm not sending you to a blog I regularly read, but instead to a timely post over at the Times Union. This is partly because this particular post is only relevant for another couple of weeks; partly because I've got a bit of a campaign going; and partly because I've been really busy and didn't have time to do a proper review of another blog.
As you may know, I occasionally contribute to this blog. Since I contribute to a Times Union blog, and am a (fairly) active commenter on several of its other blogs, I knew right away when voting opened for the 2011 Best of Survey.
When the 2010 results were released - I wasn't all that impressed. In fact, I was downright disappointed with the capital region. We voted for so many big box stores and chain restaurants, you'd think this was Stepford, for crying out loud.
The 518 has a lot to offer that is unique and fun and all our own. We should be proud of that; and we should use a survey like this to show it off. If you don't know a lot of local places - a survey like this should be a place to find something new to try. Instead it turned into a listing of all the major GPS destinations in the area.
So, I'm pointing you to the survey and encouraging you to take it, and vote for local events/people/businesses. Online voting ends April 22. I'm also taking this chance to plug myself - because it's my blog, and I can.
When you're asked to vote for best local tweeter, please write in @sue215. Am I the best locally? Who knows. I'm sure I'm as good as any other choice. Plus, my name is the shortest and most easy to remember.
Please and thank you.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Thursday Thirteen - Words to live by
I got one of those silly email forwards last week - this one was called "Words for women to live by...." Thought I'd share a few that really made me smile.
1 - Go on the 30 day diet. I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days.
2 - Lead me not into temptation - I can find it myself.
C - I'm in my own little world - but it's OK. They know me here.
d - When life gets you down - put on your big girl panties and deal with it.
5 - Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just your personality.
f - Don't get your knickers in a knot; it solves nothing and makes you walk funny.
7 - Remember - wherever there is a good looking, sweet, single or married man - there is some woman tired of his bullshit!
H - Keep your chin up - only the first 40 years of parenthood are the hardest.
9 - By the time a woman realizes her mother was right, she has a daughter who thinks she is wrong.
J - In need of a support group? Shopping and cocktails with the ladies!
k - If it has tires or testicles - it's gonna give you trouble.
L - Aspire to be Barbie - that bitch has everything.
...and my personal motto -
13 - If the shoe fits - buy them in every color!
Happy Thursday!
1 - Go on the 30 day diet. I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days.
2 - Lead me not into temptation - I can find it myself.
C - I'm in my own little world - but it's OK. They know me here.
d - When life gets you down - put on your big girl panties and deal with it.
5 - Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just your personality.
f - Don't get your knickers in a knot; it solves nothing and makes you walk funny.
7 - Remember - wherever there is a good looking, sweet, single or married man - there is some woman tired of his bullshit!
H - Keep your chin up - only the first 40 years of parenthood are the hardest.
9 - By the time a woman realizes her mother was right, she has a daughter who thinks she is wrong.
J - In need of a support group? Shopping and cocktails with the ladies!
k - If it has tires or testicles - it's gonna give you trouble.
L - Aspire to be Barbie - that bitch has everything.
...and my personal motto -
13 - If the shoe fits - buy them in every color!
Happy Thursday!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
No Words Wednesday: Sad flower
Lately - things have been a little sad and unsure....
Thanks to everyone for your good thoughts, well wishes and prayers. Whatever you've got to share, I appreciate very, very much.
 |
| Photo taken at Schenectady Rose Garden |
Thanks to everyone for your good thoughts, well wishes and prayers. Whatever you've got to share, I appreciate very, very much.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Slight chance of showers
A good friend was tweeting about a bridal shower the other day, and I started thinking about all the showers (bridal and baby) that I've attended over the years. She mentioned how great it was to see one of her best friends get so happy, and that made the shower worth the trouble.
That's a lovely sentiment; my friend is a lovely lady. My take is slightly different (and, admittedly, skewed by experience and, quite frankly, age). I started thinking about the various circumstances under which we are invited to showers...and when, in my opinion, it feels right to just say no.
First things first - we need to set aside false expectations. My ex used tocomplain mention that he felt I was invited to showers solely to bring a gift. Well, yeah - that's why everyone is invited to a shower. Yeah, sure, there's a sentimental part to the whole thing - celebrate a milestone, share happiness, blah, blah, blah.... Thing is - if celebrating and sharing was the main goal - you'd just throw a party. Call it a shower - and suddenly the stuff becomes the point.
Once you've accepted this reality, it gets a lot easier to abandon that whole, "But I have to go! She's my best friend's cousin's sister's boyfriend's aunt...I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings!" attitude. You won't - believe me. She does not care to share her happy milestone with you any more than you care to spend your afternoon peering avoiding awkward questions while eating dry cake and cheese and crackers.
The truth is, there are going to be plenty of showers where you really do care about the person celebrating. You want to see her smile, and let her know you're happy for her. The problem is, these events are often so riddled with politics and drama that any actual happy celebrating is kept to a minimum. Drama and politics interrupting my otherwise stress-free Sunday? No, thank you.
I will go to a shower (bridal or baby) if....
- The other guests are people I don't know, who won't be interested in me or why I'm divorced, still single and don't have children.*
- It's a shower my grandmother would have attended and I'm worried about guilt being sent down from the hereafter.
- The venue is a restaurant with excellent food.
- The venue is a home I've been dying to check out in person.
- There will be a chance to observe other people's drama or witness a potential hot-mess-meltdown.
- I've been assured there will be no stupid shower games.
- I know for a fact that the hostess(es) are on their game and won't let the festivities carry on for too long.
- I know that this particular bride-to-be will be happy to see me.
*This is not an issue for someone who is married or engaged, and if so, either has children, is pregnant or is planning to start trying soon. Under these circumstances, a person is basically judgment proof, and therefore in the clear.
I send regrets (and a gift) if...
- The other guests are family or friends who will ask me fun questions like, "Is there any chance you and X will get back together?" or "How on earth do you manage all by yourself?" Pass.
- I get a hint that the guest list is out of control, and therefore present-opening will take all day.
- I know the hostess(es) will plan a lot of cheesy games that will make my eye twitch.
- I dislike the venue, or it's what I consider to be too long a drive.
- I know that this particular bride-to-be couldn't care less if I'm there; and may, in fact, not even recognize me.
- I have something better to do.
Note that there is a very exclusive (read: short) list of people for whom the regrets rules don't apply. I'm lucky enough to have a few people in my life who would do anything for me - and for them, I'd brave even the most uncomfortable afternoon.
For everyone else - thecheck carefully chosen, beautifully wrapped online-registry gift is in the mail.
.jpg) |
| Just look at all the |
First things first - we need to set aside false expectations. My ex used to
Once you've accepted this reality, it gets a lot easier to abandon that whole, "But I have to go! She's my best friend's cousin's sister's boyfriend's aunt...I don't want to hurt anyone's feelings!" attitude. You won't - believe me. She does not care to share her happy milestone with you any more than you care to spend your afternoon peering avoiding awkward questions while eating dry cake and cheese and crackers.
The truth is, there are going to be plenty of showers where you really do care about the person celebrating. You want to see her smile, and let her know you're happy for her. The problem is, these events are often so riddled with politics and drama that any actual happy celebrating is kept to a minimum. Drama and politics interrupting my otherwise stress-free Sunday? No, thank you.
- The other guests are people I don't know, who won't be interested in me or why I'm divorced, still single and don't have children.*
- It's a shower my grandmother would have attended and I'm worried about guilt being sent down from the hereafter.
- The venue is a restaurant with excellent food.
- The venue is a home I've been dying to check out in person.
- There will be a chance to observe other people's drama or witness a potential hot-mess-meltdown.
- I've been assured there will be no stupid shower games.
- I know for a fact that the hostess(es) are on their game and won't let the festivities carry on for too long.
- I know that this particular bride-to-be will be happy to see me.
*This is not an issue for someone who is married or engaged, and if so, either has children, is pregnant or is planning to start trying soon. Under these circumstances, a person is basically judgment proof, and therefore in the clear.
 |
| Oh dear, something's come up.... |
- The other guests are family or friends who will ask me fun questions like, "Is there any chance you and X will get back together?" or "How on earth do you manage all by yourself?" Pass.
- I get a hint that the guest list is out of control, and therefore present-opening will take all day.
- I know the hostess(es) will plan a lot of cheesy games that will make my eye twitch.
- I dislike the venue, or it's what I consider to be too long a drive.
- I know that this particular bride-to-be couldn't care less if I'm there; and may, in fact, not even recognize me.
- I have something better to do.
Note that there is a very exclusive (read: short) list of people for whom the regrets rules don't apply. I'm lucky enough to have a few people in my life who would do anything for me - and for them, I'd brave even the most uncomfortable afternoon.
For everyone else - the
Monday, April 4, 2011
Fitness challenge
So I promised myself that for the month of March, I'd go to the gym four times a week. That was my challenge - nothing more. How'd I do? Meh.
I went at least twice each week in March; at least one week, I made it four times. All in all, not too bad considering I started at zero times a week. The challenge fell apart the last few days, because of some family problems that derailed my otherwise drama-free existence.
Like I said, there was no weight-loss component to the challenge. Having been broken in a freak bathtub-washing "accident" last year, my scale is of no real use, anyway. Plus, like I've said - losing weight is an uphill battle for me. If I make that the goal, I'm easily discouraged by my lack of immediate progress.
I was encouraged by the fact that a pair of jeans that is normally super-tight immediately after a wash was less so by the end of the month. Maybe the trips to the gym are paying off, even if it is ever-so-slightly?
On the off chance that something is actually working, I'll get back on track and keep this up for another month. I may even incorporate some healthier (not healthy - let's not get crazy) eating habits. Maybe some fresh veggies? Substitute rice for pasta now and then?
I'm taking suggestions. Remember - keep 'em easy. This is a real-girl's diet and exercise challenge. Around these parts, we have flaws and set-backs - and life is rarely what we order.
I went at least twice each week in March; at least one week, I made it four times. All in all, not too bad considering I started at zero times a week. The challenge fell apart the last few days, because of some family problems that derailed my otherwise drama-free existence.
Like I said, there was no weight-loss component to the challenge. Having been broken in a freak bathtub-washing "accident" last year, my scale is of no real use, anyway. Plus, like I've said - losing weight is an uphill battle for me. If I make that the goal, I'm easily discouraged by my lack of immediate progress.
I was encouraged by the fact that a pair of jeans that is normally super-tight immediately after a wash was less so by the end of the month. Maybe the trips to the gym are paying off, even if it is ever-so-slightly?
On the off chance that something is actually working, I'll get back on track and keep this up for another month. I may even incorporate some healthier (not healthy - let's not get crazy) eating habits. Maybe some fresh veggies? Substitute rice for pasta now and then?
I'm taking suggestions. Remember - keep 'em easy. This is a real-girl's diet and exercise challenge. Around these parts, we have flaws and set-backs - and life is rarely what we order.
 |
| Yeah, like that.... |
Friday, April 1, 2011
Follow Friday Fun - Sex, Lies & Dating in the City
I love me some dating blogs. Mostly because they are often funny, sassy and smart. Also because it's comforting to know I'm not the only one in these predicaments. I don't write in too much detail about my dating life here - I save that for other places. Since I do write my tales of woe, I also regularly scour the blogosphere to see what my fellow bloggers are putting up with going through.
I came across the blog Sex, Lies & Dating in the City a few months back, while I was searching for "the best dating blogs." Seriously - that was my google search - and I read dozens of blogs that popped up as a result. This one definitely deserves that title.
The author's name is Simone Grant. Well - that's her pen name. As she explains in her "About Me" section, she started her blog as an outlet for her creativity, gave it a name, and then gave herself a name to go along with it - all for the sake of branding. Makes a ton of sense. She's also a Social Media Consultant, which you can learn more about here.
Successful, single-and-dating and a social media consultant? This woman is my hero.
She'll also tell you that she doesn't like the label "dating blogger." That the whole point of her blog was really to find/build an audience, and dating just happened to be a topic about which friends had suggested she write.
Whether her topic is dating in general, or online dating, sex, or self-esteem, Simone tells it with smarts and sass, and is definitely worth reading. Even if you're not single, or not dating, we can all relate to batshit crazy, can't we?
If check out the blog and like what you see, find Simone on twitter, facebook and tumblr - and let her know!
I came across the blog Sex, Lies & Dating in the City a few months back, while I was searching for "the best dating blogs." Seriously - that was my google search - and I read dozens of blogs that popped up as a result. This one definitely deserves that title.
The author's name is Simone Grant. Well - that's her pen name. As she explains in her "About Me" section, she started her blog as an outlet for her creativity, gave it a name, and then gave herself a name to go along with it - all for the sake of branding. Makes a ton of sense. She's also a Social Media Consultant, which you can learn more about here.
Successful, single-and-dating and a social media consultant? This woman is my hero.
She'll also tell you that she doesn't like the label "dating blogger." That the whole point of her blog was really to find/build an audience, and dating just happened to be a topic about which friends had suggested she write.
Whether her topic is dating in general, or online dating, sex, or self-esteem, Simone tells it with smarts and sass, and is definitely worth reading. Even if you're not single, or not dating, we can all relate to batshit crazy, can't we?
If check out the blog and like what you see, find Simone on twitter, facebook and tumblr - and let her know!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)