New York State of Mind

Almost one year to the day

2007-09-24T20:57:00.000-07:00

...missed it by ONE. You may recall that on September 22, 2006 I fell and broke a toe on my right foot and twisted my left ankle. And this time it was a fight with a chair and a door on September 23rd. They both won. I don't know how I do it. Anywho...a new bruise, but nothing broken this time. At least I won't have to go to court in Chacos!

HAPPY 2007!!!

2007-01-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the new year! While I have no resolutions, I do hope to find my bathroom counter under the sea of makeup eventually this year, and to exercise more. Things to NOT do in 2007 include buying clothes and bags. I have resisted the after Christmas sales and great bargains on bags that I did not absolutely love. The only thing really missing from my collection was a white bag, and thanks to Celine that void is soon to be filled. Behold, the Celine Bittersweet...my spring/summer and all around "white" bag (actually ordered in pearl). Hopefully my last bag purchase for quite a while.

Ah ha ha...

2006-12-22T22:40:00.000-08:00

I knew my posts of engagement rings were not for naught! Big congrats to Rachel on her recent engagement and the lovely ring posted above!!! A happy holiday, indeed.

'Tis the season to get engaged...

2006-11-25T23:17:00.000-08:00

...And for those of you considering doing a little gem shopping for the holidays, I am reposting a little item that I created for another board a while back. Enjoy!

Originally posted July 31, 2006 at I-Cat's Board
They say a dog is man's best friend, but I have to say I like my dogs a LOT! But I like my diamonds, too. Bruce Weber of the Utica Square store taught me to "grade" stones, and there has been no living with me ever since. So if you are in need of a fabulous rock, I'm your girl! Here are a few little beauties for your viewing pleasure.

Photo credits: "'Tis the season" photo courtesy of Samsclub.com; "Classic" Tiffany ring photos courtesy of Tiffany.com; "Anniversary," "Asscher" and "Fancy" ring photos courtesy of Samsclub.com

The Classic

2006-11-25T23:16:00.000-08:00

This ring is timeless and will never go out of style. The Tiffany round brilliant solitaire in platinum. I tried one of these on in Kansas City earlier this month when I visited my sister. The 1 ct was around the $20K mark, the 2.08 ct (my personal favorite, of course!) was about $60K. Diamond or house? You decide. I included the side view of this ring because there are many settings out there that call themselves a "Tiffany 6-prong setting" and, while they may have six prongs, they are NOT the Tiffany setting. Notice the "W" shape created by the opening where the mounting joins the shank. This setting maximizes light passage through the stone, creating the most brilliance.

The Anniversary

2006-11-25T23:15:00.000-08:00

This is the currently popular 3-stone ring...past, present, future. Which one is the big one? This particular ring can be had from the Sam's (yes, you read it right) "dream" collection, weighing in at 7.96ct and for the bargain price of $169K.Do you have any idea how long I could live on $169K???

The Asscher

2006-11-25T23:14:00.000-08:00

I believe this stone was first created around the 20s, but it has seen a surge in popularity in the last ten years and it now quite sought after. A word to the wise, however...if you can't afford a huge rock, you lose some bang for your buck with the Asscher because the trimming of the corners and the facet cutting leave less "table" for the stone weight. For our trivia buffs, the princess (square) and the marquise (football-shaped) are the two stones that look the largest for their carat weight. The RBC is one of the most expensive stone shapes to cut because the round shape means less more "wasted" diamond due to corner loss (for lack of a better way to explain it). Just thought you might like to know!This little beauty weighs in at 7.12ct and has a pricetag of $250K. Aidan gave Carrie an Asscher when he proposed on Sex and the City.

The "Fancy"

2006-11-25T23:12:00.000-08:00

This is the name given to the colored stones, and this one is a beautiful cushion cut in cognac. Colored diamonds come in a variety of colors, the most popular currently being canary and pink. There are also blue, green, black, etc. Due to the rise in popularity of colored stones (does anyone here recall a certain J-Lo pink diamond from her "Bennifer" days?) they are often priced higher than white stones. While this is beautiful, I prefer to stick with tradition.

This not-so-little gem has a total weight (side white baguettes included) of 31.91ct and a hefty price tag of $411.4K. I think I would need bigger hands. And a super-sized wallet! Thanks, but I will take a house, retirement fund, and a trip to Paris for that kind of cash!

2006-11-10T13:33:00.000-08:00

Better picture of the Blue India City...this time taken outside without flash.

2006-11-05T22:17:00.000-08:00

One more...my Blue India City is finally here. The Part-Time (bag in back) has been shipped back, but the City might be a keeper. LOVE this color...it's so Caribbean!

2006-11-05T22:11:00.000-08:00

I know I shouldn't love these boots, but I do. Seriously, I MUST HAVE THEM!

2006-11-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

New Bare Escentuals PEACOCK kit for fall/winter. Check out the inside of the bronze clutch! This is too cute.

2006-10-24T22:27:00.000-07:00

Blue India Part-Time bag...FINALLY it's here. And it's too big. But the color is positively scrummy, no?

2006-09-22T21:21:00.000-07:00

Someone HATES my feet! It's like a trend now...this time it was a fall while walking the dogs. I had to walk around a car parked blocking the sidewalk, and the driveway was not flush with the street. I, however, was...for about ten minutes. I broke my right pinky toe and twisted my left ankle. Bah!

2006-09-22T21:19:00.000-07:00

A sample of the new Blue India color for Balenciaga's fall line. My previous post notwithstanding (and I have carried that bag since its arrival and am still very much in love with it), I have been on the waitlist for this color since July. It is the color of the ocean that just beckons to me. A few more weeks...

The end of the "IT" bag

2006-08-16T10:07:00.000-07:00

After much chasing of "IT" bags and buying and selling, I have decided the way to go (for me, now) is classic. No more six bags per season and all of that...what I really need is one or two good bags that never go out of style. I am not a fan of black bags, but when this little gem arrived I was in love. Eventually I will get another color (contrary to popular myth, black does NOT go with everything) and perhaps even a fun color. And it seems to be a lucky bag, too...the day after it arrived I was called for a job interview. The bag went with me, and will begin my new job with me tomorrow!

2006-08-16T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Bobbi Brown GOLD collection preview for fall '06. Love this! Even the gold shimmer brick is awesome, and I don't even use shimmer bricks. Neiman Marcus has the exclusive "gold kit" for fall available now (limited edition), but the non-exclusives will hit stores this September.

Edith goes Bowling

2006-08-05T17:00:00.000-07:00

The new Edith satchel available at Neiman Marcus. Um...pass. I think they got it right the first time. Why ruin a good thing? For profits, apparently.

Good things for fall

2006-08-05T16:41:00.000-07:00

Frye Boots in Blazer Brown

Eddie Bauer Shawl Collar Cardigan in Smoke

2006-07-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

The devil may wear Prada, but it was this Marc Jacobs bag from the film that stopped me in my tracks...or would have, had I not already been stopped and seated in the theater. Fortunately I was able to find one with the help of a lovely SA in California!

Cleaning out my closet!

2006-07-24T15:36:00.001-07:00

The unthinkable has happened. I have gone on a purse purging spree! My once voluminous bag collection is now dwindling, and the ladies at FedEx are starting to recognize me on sight! Today I shipped of my chocolate Hogan Shopper in trade for a Balenciaga Purse in caramel, which more likely than not will go up on the chopping block upon arrival. I am even thinking of cancelling my pre-order for the Balenciaga City in blue India...and I am #1 on the pre-order list! Still hanging in there are the 2004 Balenciaga pewter First, the Chloe Edith in whiskey, the (new) Marc Jacobs multipocket in denim (leather), and the Hogan H-flap Scout in mahogany. I am on the fence about the lemon Scout...the bag I hunted across two continents and swore I would never part with. I also have some Coach bags still in the closet, and a Tods Micky that could do with a new home, but the big designer bags seem to be taking one for the team, as it were. On the horizon...the quest for Birkin. But first, the quest for another job continues!

2006-07-06T20:36:00.000-07:00

THIS is the hat that I absolutely must have for fall/winter. If anyone knows who makes it or what it is called, please let me know. It was in the Bergdorf Goodman pre-fall magazine, but they have not been able to track it down.

URGENT...Dogs and Cats to be Euthanized in TWO DAYS!

2006-06-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

A Mentally Ill Hoarder is indicted !!!!!!!!!!!! His 40+ dogs and numerous cats are arriving at an already full shelter. All 40 dogs have to be held for a court date, so the ones there now have to be euthanized in order to make space for these new dogs!! The Hampshire County Animal Control tries very hard not to euthanasia, but they are out of space for this URGENT situation; The dogs have till June 23 and 24 !!ALL DOGS WILL DIE IF NOT RESCUED OR ADOPTED; please look at the dogs below and try to help, even taking one dog will help the rest. Contact: Laurel at 304-492-5442 or Hampshirecountyac@aol.com. Shelter cell is 304-671-4704 and main # is 304-496-9379

PLEASE HELP THESE WONDERFUL DOGS! Most Dogs are Very Rescue Friendly but will be PTS due to not enough Rescues and too many animals in this EMERGENCY SITUATION. Please help them. The more we can find a place for, the fewer will be put down. Thanks. View more about these animals and links to all adoptable animals at the shelter here: http://dogblog.dogster.com/2006/06/21/desperate-situation-in-west-virginia-pound-puppies-and-kitties-need-homes-immediately/

IF you cannot foster or adopt, please pass the information along on your blog or mailing list so we can save these animals!

2006-06-13T22:53:00.000-07:00

Can you tell I am ready for fall? I am already drooling over cable-knit sweaters and wool slacks and tote bags for back-to-school! Is this hat adorable? I could do without the silver, but it's SO cute! But another hat has already stolen my heart...now if only someone could identify it. (I may post that one later!)

2006-06-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

The Kooba Paige arrived in my mailbox on Saturday in the Bergdorf Goodman Fall Preview magazine. What a gorgeous bag! And a great price! There is already a long list for this one, so if you want it you should definitely call BG and get on the list. The bag should be arriving sometime next month. YAY for fall!

2006-06-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

The new Balenciaga Part Time bag. The first round of pre-fall colors (browns, black, blanc, red and blueberry) are arriving in the next week or so, but I am waiting for this color to come in August/September.

Man Wrestles Alligator to Save Dog

2006-06-02T22:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.crestonnewsadvertiser.com/315266146819723.php (since my html is not working properly to link here)

Every once in a while we see someone who is actually worthy of their animal. To this guy's credit, he fought an alligator on its turf (or pond, rather) to save his dog when the dog (off the leash) ran ahead and almost became the alligator's breakfast. We need more pet owners like this! Thanks to BalenciagaLove for sending me this story. And to the people who left their dog in the SUV while they had dinner tonight in 90 degree heat, take a lesson from this DESERVING pet owner and DON'T LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A HOT CAR...EVER! If you leave an animal in a hot car, you don't deserve to have an animal. It's called animal cruelty for a reason.

2006-05-26T23:50:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, THIS is why you should tune in to American Idol for the grand finale even if you are not a fan...the master himself made an appearance! I cannot tell you how thrilled I was when Meat Loaf walked onto that stage! For those of you who, like Kat McPhee, have never HEARD of Meat Loaf...do yourself a favor and go buy "Bat out of Hell" immediately, if not sooner.

2006-05-22T15:12:00.000-07:00

OPI Nail Color is donating $1 to the Red Cross for every bottle of their 25th anniversary polish "Red-y to Help" sold. I picked one up today at ULTA, but nail salons may also carry it. The color rocks, and it's for a good cause! Pedi, anyone?

2006-05-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

After almost a week of hospitalization and extensive testing, x-rays, ultrasound, berium series, etc., we decided to go to surgery yesterday morning on my kitty. The culprit was an audiotape that wrapped around the base of his tongue and extended down to a ball in his small intestine. The intestine perforated but the surgery was successful and he should be able to come home tomorrow. His "intestine contents" are in the bag next to the cassette that the tape came from. Ten days and $2250 later, kitty will recover! YAY!

2006-05-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

On my wish list right now...a full recovery for my kitty. When we came home Friday night he was lying in a heap on the floor, listless. We spent all night in the vet emergency clinic, and he is now with a feline specialist. There was a glimmer of hope this evening, so I am hoping he will survive. GET WELL GREEBS!

2006-04-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

"Who wants this dog?" (Family Guy) Seriously, this little girl was rescued from morning rush hour traffic on Thursday and is now available for adoption. She was fortunate to only need a few stitches and tick treatment (and got all of her shots, of course).

2006-04-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

The new summer/fall colors have arrived at Dior. Dark blue leather, and brown/black leather. Blue shown here in medium size. Photo courtesy of PF member. I ordered this bag yesterday, since the metallic b-bags are nowhere to be found.

2006-04-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of the Balenciaga bronze Work bag...this will be my next quest, but in the City size.

2006-04-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

Whiskey Edith's evil twin...Chamois! Now I have a choice to make. Sorry for the messy pic with buckles undone...she was anxious to get in front of the camera!

2006-04-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

Ink City outside...the color changes depending on the light. In low light it is a deep blue-black, changing to an indigo or blue-purple color (like blue ballpoint ink).

2006-04-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

New Balenciaga City in ink. I really like this one...easy to fit in all my stuff, super soft, and fabulous color (see outside photo also). Now...do I keep BOTH the City and the Edith, or send Edith back?

2006-03-31T13:04:00.000-08:00

Edith also arrived AT LAST, but there is a black mark on the handle. Not sure if I am keeping her, or if the mark will get the best of me.

2006-03-31T13:02:00.000-08:00

Okay...trying the blanc pocket Paddington (a.k.a. "The Professor") now...

2006-03-17T14:30:00.000-08:00

Corned beef and cabbage tonight!!! Image by my urchin = )

2006-03-16T10:58:00.000-08:00

Jessica is back in the news, and this time it's not related to her breakup! Apparently Ms. Simpson is not as ditzy as she would have us believe, and the Bush clan is throwing a tantrum about it. Simpson's decision to NOT appear as a Republican supporter at their fund-raising dinner was met with toddler tantrum comments including "It's never been a problem for Bono" (read But Bono does it!) and "Simpson is currently featured wearing cowboy boots and hot pants in a TV pizza ad" (read well, if she wears hot pants we don't want her ANYWAY!). The Republicans look stupid (again) and Jessica, for once, looks like the smart blonde. GO JESS! Great handbags AND dissing Republicans...I think I'm in love! Photo courtesy of AOL

2006-03-14T21:33:00.000-08:00

Saks catalog photo of the chamois Edith...courtesy of my FABULOUS friend in NY (since Saks has not sent mine). I love the whiskey color, but this would be gorgeous with jeans! Hmmm....

2006-03-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

Mousse Big Pocket Paddington arrived this morning and when they say "big" they are NOT kidding! This bag is huge!

2006-03-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

Well, I have FINALLY made up my mind. Tonight I ordered the new Big Pocket Paddington in mousse. There is some question as to what color mousse really is...LVR shows it (above) as a dark green-grey, but there is another photo below that shows it as a lighter color with more blue. Either way I will be happy. I love the dark grey, and I loved my jeans moyen (but sent it back because the style was wrong for me), so if it is the bluish color that looks pretty close. Glad to have ONE decision out of the way...

2006-03-08T22:19:00.000-08:00

Here is an "actual" photo of the mousse color taken by Roz77772002 (she has a mousse Paddington available on eBay if anyone is interested, and an EXCELLENT reputation as a legitimate seller of authentic items).

2006-03-04T00:35:00.000-08:00

The ultimate Chloe Paddington...the Vanity/Train Case. No one has this. Few Chloe enthusiasts have even SEEN this bag. So which of the bags below do you think comes closest?

2006-03-04T00:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a more detailed photo of bag #4 (below)...

2006-03-04T00:33:00.000-08:00

Here is a more detailed photo of bag #3 (from photo below)...

2006-03-04T00:26:00.000-08:00

My picks of Chloe's spring/summer lineup. I have the first bag (Edith) on pre-order, and the blue Paddy had to go back...the shape was just wrong for me (but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the color!). So now I am between bags 3 and 4 (essentially the same bag, but different sizes and the larger version has wraparound straps to the front pocket). I hate decisions! I would probably do tan, taupe or chocolate and not the grey-green color in either. HELP!

2006-02-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

I tried these sunglasses on yesterday at Coach. Normally "plastic" frame glasses don't fit me right but these were perfect! Now I am kicking myself for not buying them, as my Revos are scratched (and hubby hates them). I may have to go back and get these today...

2006-02-24T13:23:00.000-08:00

Better shot of the bag color...what do you guys think? Is this one a keeper?

2006-02-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

Here 'tis...my new bag! I love the blue-grey color (sorry, my camera flash sort of washed it out). This should hold me until the Edith arrives. NO MORE BAGS UNTIL FALL!

2006-02-07T14:08:00.000-08:00

Apparently this is the CHLOE Edith in the medium size (although there were only two sizes made) in the whiskey color. After much hunting, I have this bag on pre-order and it should arrive SOMETIME between now and April. I hope it is as gorgeous as it looks in the photos. It is close to impossible to find!

2006-02-05T17:26:00.000-08:00

Another "mystery" bag. This is a new Chloe, but I don't know the name of the style or who is carrying it. I love this one, too...and if the price is right...

2006-02-05T17:24:00.000-08:00

Here is another shot of Jessica's new bag. Still waiting for someone...anyone...who can give us a clue about this one. She seems to have us mystified with this bag.

2006-02-03T22:54:00.000-08:00

Dior's new Gaucho Saddlebag in red. Red? It looks more brown to me, but whatever they are calling it, this is a gorgeous bag! At $1,950 (eLuxury) I will have to watch it from the sidelines.

2006-02-02T17:31:00.000-08:00

Can anyone tell me about the bag Jessica is carrying? Name? Maker? Anything?

2006-01-31T20:18:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Choo's new "RAMONA" double grommet bag in navy calfskin. This beauty has already sold out at Bergdorf at the bargain price of $1,850. Oh my!

2006-01-24T10:44:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to SMASHBOX on the PETA Award for 2005. If there is one thing I love more than cosmetics, it's animal-friendly cosmetics. They also have a very nice Valentine's Day GWP special going right now.

2006-01-22T10:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry to be absent for so long, but I have finally found a bag worth posting. The Furla Farrah bag has all the slouchiness of a Hogan and the strappiness of the old Scout. I love this bag!

2005-11-04T20:00:00.000-08:00

If anyone in the Tulsa (or reasonably surrounding) area is interested in adopting a puppy (med/large size when grown, currently about seven months old) who was dumped in our neighborhood and then rescued from the pound, please let me know. He needs a good home with a privacy fenced yard. Adoption fee will apply to cover shots and neutering. E-mail me for more details...

More Fabulous Fall Bedding

2005-09-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

Pottery Barn rises to the "bedroom challenge" with a hotel-suite-worthy (though probably not pet friendly) line of bedding. My Barrington duvet cover arrived yesterday and is pet friendly, washable, and a little slice of heaven.

Martha's Poncho

2005-09-16T10:55:00.000-07:00

For those of you who so desperately wanted a poncho "just like Martha's" this is your chance. I received an e-mail from Martha Stewart's new store that the poncho is available for pre-order in two colors, blue (in photo) and red.

A Little Something for the Bedroom

2005-09-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

I have been searching for the perfect duvet cover for my down comforter for over a year now, and it landed right in front of me in today's mail. LT and I have a huge leather bed (I recommend it...particularly the padded side rails...no more bruised shins!) that is very close to this color, and the new Barrington Duvet Cover (in flannel, brown herringbone with chocolate and light blue stripe and chocolate piping) is going to be divine!

Margaret Nicole Gets a New Look

2005-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

The new Margaret Nicole web design...now featuring VELVET ribbons for fall! See Margaret Nicole online or at Anthropologie (for a special edition clutch bag). Fabulous!

MIA

2005-08-29T15:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the extended "leave of absence"...the last two weeks have been nothing short of utter chaos. School is starting back, and I received some last minute notice concerning work related items which I am still sorting through/catching up on! Hopefully by next week things will have calmed down enough for me to at least know whether I am coming or going. I hope to resume regular posting, or at least the Week in Review posts shortly. Meanwhile, sentio aliquos togatos contra me conspirare...

Twins, Basil...Twins!!!

2005-08-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

A big welcome to my new nephews who arrived yesterday morning!

2005-08-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

Prada Sport Bomber Jacket, available from Neiman Marcus

Bean's Town & Country Tote

2005-08-09T13:38:00.000-07:00

I have to say, I am loving L.L. Bean this season. Their Town & Country Tweed Tote for fall is a steal at $89, and it's L.L. Bean, which means it will last FOREVER. Perhaps I could do without the rolled handles, but it has an organized interior! Amazing. Hogan's fall line...total garbage. L.L. Bean...fabulous. What are the odds?

2005-08-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

If I only had $395 to spend on a belt, this might be the one! Kippys embellished leather belt, available from Neiman Marcus

This Week In Review, Part 4 of 4

2005-08-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

MAC for Luella Bartley: Tinted Lip Moisturizer. MAC teamed up with Luella Bartley to create two new limited editions colors (Pink Pink to make the Boys Wink and Trot on, which are a soft pink and apricot, respectively) in special Luella-friendly containers. Since the pink was SOLD OUT from our Sak's store (this is a Sak's exclusive), I had to find a location that had it and pay an exhorbitant amount to have it shipped in the pink. The apricot I have ordered directly from MACcosmetics.com. Like all MAC products, this is divine. I ordered two in each color so I may never run out.

Philosophy Cinnamon Buns: Now in industrial size! QVC has the exclusive on the 32 oz. Cinnamon Buns 3-in-1 shampoo, shower gel and bubble bath. As a long time fan of Cinnamon Buns, I have restocked my dwindling supply and am happy as a clam. (32 oz. also available now in "Amazing Grace" 3-in-1 and "Purity" face cleanser.)

Bobbi Brown Clay Kit for Fall: Nordstrom "Beauty Extras" exclusive, and no longer available (you can try eBay). I love the fall kit. Includes a tawny blush, malted shimmer shadow, clay lip color -- moisturize lips first! --, naked lip liner (fabulous!), and two mini brushes in a faux leather clay zipper case. I love the colors in this kit. Very autumn outdoorsy looking. Bobbi has a great makeup philosophy (which I have been reading about in her book "Bobbi Brown Beauty"): less is more, and the "natural looking" you is better than spending four hours trying to use every makeup artist's trick. I am stocking up on her products.

Bobbi Brown Style File: Neiman Marcus exclusive from LAST fall, purchased NIB on eBay. Since I missed out on the "Slopes" palette and I wanted a refillable palette to put all my stuff in to keep track of it, this had everything I was looking for: Sandwash Beige Lip Color, Sandwash Pink Lip Gloss, Tan Eyeshadow, Slopes Blush, Black Everything Mascara, and the little plastic palette to fit it all in WITH an extra 6 Pan Palette insert. In combination with the Clay kit for this fall, these colors are absolutely gorgeous.

This Week In Review, Part 3 of 4

2005-08-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

Bare Escentuals Beach Goddess: While I love the BE kits, and this is a great buy for the money, their "seasonal" shipping seems to be a bit off. I am not sure why I am getting "beachy" colors in August when everything in fashion is turning to fall. The kit includes a blush in "Sun Kissed," eye shadows in "Beach Goddess" and "Shell," a black mascara, a brow definer gel, lip pencil in "Barn" and lip gloss in "Reef." Two brushes and the teal velvet drawstring bag are bonuses worth the price of the kit alone. Alas, it will probably go back since the colors are not MY best, and since Bobbi Brown seems to have taken care of all of my color issues for now.

2005-08-06T18:10:00.000-07:00

Which is the IT jacket for fall/early winter? I need opinions!

This Week In Review, Part 2 of 4

2005-08-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

It is simply not possible to enter into fall without a pumpkin candle. Having recently run low on all of my favorites, I have just completed "autumn restocking" on candles for the house.

First, Trapp candles. These are an absolute necessity for me, and apparently no one in Tulsa is selling them anymore. They are generally found in little hoity-toity boutique stores, but apparently customers complained that they could be had cheaper online, so the stores just stopped ordering them entirely. This left me in a sort of a predicament, since I wanted one NOW and because it is so hot that they were in danger of melting in transit. However, I found a company that packed the candles in ice for shipping and guaranteed their safe arrival, so all is now well. On the right side of the photo is the one must-have Trapp candle...No. 4 in Orange-Vanilla. This is absolute heaven and makes my whole house smell amazing. Unlike some other citrusy candles (Williams-Sonoma, for instance), it does not smell like a cleaning product.

On the left is the new Trapp fragrance "Snowflake." This was described as smelling "like Christmas." Well, I am not sure exactly how Christmas is supposed to smell, but being a big fan of the season, snowflakes, and the adorable packaging, I decided to give it a try. The fragrance is hard to describe...almost a muted fir in combination with something soft. But I like it. And I am hard to please. No "seashore" or "blueberry muffin" candles for me, thanks.

Last but definitely not least, we come to the pumpkin candle from Bath & Body Works. This is a White Barn creation, and is aptly entitled "The Perfect Autumn Pumpkin." My husband and I are both addicted to these. Since we were in the vicinity of a Bath & Body Works last night we dropped in on the off chance that fall items would have begun to trickle in. Lucky for us, they had indeed. I even had a coupon with me! If you love the smell of pumpkin pie or spiced pumpkin, this is an absolute must. And the fragrance carries as the candle is burned. Yummy. They also will have room spray for the fall (not in yet) and an oil for burning. Stock up while you can. On second thought...leave them all for us!

This Week In Review, Part 1 of 4

2005-08-06T10:17:00.000-07:00

It has been a fruitful week, so this week's TWIR section has been broken down into four parts over Saturday AND Sunday. Fall is on the horizon, and I am shopping! Normally I don't list particular clothing items on the site (except for accessory items, of course), but this was too good an opportunity to pass up.

First, the Annette gloves from Cole Haan. These are almost everyting I expected them to be. The color is a bit darker than I had hoped for, but they are beautiful. The FedEx guy left the package with a neighbor, so I opened the box next door and they ooohed and aaahed over them. One note, however...undo the braiding before you slide these beauties on. It is simple to do, and will make donning the gloves much easier. Now on to the sweaters.

As I have said before, I am a sweater fiend. I also have about twenty camis, so cute cardigans to slip over the cami on a not-so-warm day seemed like a great idea. These came from L.L. Bean. Yes, you read it right...L.L. Bean. The lilac and spruce colors (top left and right) are "Swift River" cardigans and a huge bargain at $29.50 each. The aqua essential turtleneck is a lovely cross between mint and Tiffany blue-green. At $69, the "Air Light" turtleneck in Blue Ridge is the most expensive (sweater) of the lot, but I have been looking for the perfect blue turtleneck for a year and a half and this one fits the bill. Sometimes great finds come from unexpected places, and L.L. Bean (a throwback to my college days of wandering State Parks for fun and research) is a company second to none for quality control, customer service, and standing behind their products. Give them a look!

Coach Shearling

2005-08-04T21:36:00.000-07:00

Time for a fashion decision. Do you love the Coach shearling bag (the dark brown and off-white at the middle right-hand side of the photo, or the Coach coyote duffle from my earlier pre-fall post?

"Sort of" Environmentalist Soapbox

2005-08-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I decided to enroll in an online payment system for my telephone bill. As a person who manages to LOSE the mail generally somewhere between the front door and a table located approximately two feet away from the front door, online bill pay has become my best friend. The phone company, apparently leery of we "onliners," has called twice with recorded messages...once to inform me that I have enrolled in online bill pay (not a bad idea in case I DIDN'T really enroll), and once to thank me for making an online payment. Sheesh. This is on top of the confirmation e-mail that I received immediately upon registration. So today I get ANOTHER e-mail thanking me for stopping my paper bills. Overkill. But since we are all online anyway, why not save the paper and the stamps by having things delivered electronically? This is much more efficient for me, since I can't really "lose" an e-bill (e-statement?), and I can keep it as new mail until I have paid it to remind me that it is due, rather than putting it in a drawer or next to the bed or on the table where the cat adopts it as his new toy and, three months down the road, I find it behind the piano or under a sofa cushion.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

2005-08-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

It is now officially August, which means that "Christmas in July" has passed and it is now time to get in full swing for the real thing! I spent the better part of the weekend working out who I need gifts for, what to get them, where to find it, and how much it is going to cost. Gift ordering has commenced! Over the next few months I will begin to amass a horde of Christmas items which will take up space and must be monitored via computerized listing so I don't forget what I got and for whom...but it is a necessity because if I don't get this present thing going, I will start having my pre-Christmas nightmares. It is true. I have them. If I am not dutifully shopping by August (or so) I begin to have nightmares that it is 6:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve and all the stores are locking up for the holiday and I have not gotten anything for my son, my whole family, it varies. And it freaks me out. So, time to get cracking!

This Week In Review

2005-07-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

Philosophy 3-in-1 Bath, Shower Gel, Shampoo: these were part of a TSV from QVC and are not yet available from Philosophy. There are twelve bottles in total, of which about half will be exclusive to this single QVC offering which will ship three bottles every three months for one year. The first shipment contained "Lemon Custard," "Sugar Cookie," and "Berries and Cream." I ordered this because I have the "sugar cookie" lipgloss and it smells divine. The bath stuff, for once, does not measure up. The sugar cookie scent is more like a lemony cookie than a sweet sugar. Not what I had expected, and I am not into lemon or verbena type fragrances of any kind. The berries and cream smells like a strawberry smoothie, which is fine, but bathing in it...well, not my favorite. I gave the lemon custard to a neighbor so that she could try it out, and she really likes it. In the future I will stick with the cinnamon buns, coconut milk, pumpkin pie and eggnog scents. Let's face it, I'm an autumn baby.

Origins "Modern Friction": this is a fairly new microderm abrasion scrub from Origins. It is supposed to be gentle yet effective. When I open the container, it has the appearance of marshmallow creme with ground up rice in it, which struck me as odd. I have used this twice now, and it is fabulous. Although I do not care for the scent (it's not bad, I'm just really weird about scents), the results were outstanding. It is quite gentle, and I wondered if it was really going to work. You rub the "goo" in circular motions over your face, then add a bit of water to lather, then more to lather and rinse completely. My face was glowing and smooth afterward. I will be switching out between this and my Philosophy Microdelivery Peel (which smells like citrus, which I do love)...although I believe the Origins scrub could be used with greater frequency than the other.

Origins "No Puffery" Eye Gel: I have not been terribly puffy since receiving this, so I cannot give actual testimony as to effectiveness. It has a pleasant fragrance and seems easy enough to use...either a heavy application that you wipe off after a few minutes OR a light application that is worn all day under makeup. The smell is not off-putting (even for me) and it feels great if you refrigerate before using.

Too-Faced "Lip Injection in a Tube": disappointed! This is a lip gloss similar to DuWop's "Lip Venom" that is applied to the lips with a brush and contains an irritant to make the lips puff up a bit; i.e., look bigger. While the DuWop formula has a cinnamon scent, this one was more fruity which I did not care for, and the result: godawful. It looked like someone punched me in the mouth. Apparently I am allergic to the Too-Faced formula, because the entire area around my mouth got red and streaky and I could not get this off fast enough! Also, the super-gloss effect of this is something I don't care for. As for making my lips seem larger, I can only say it made them seem really shiny and that detracted from any enhancement that might have been there, but which I did not particularly notice. In the future I will stick with MAC glosses and a light lip pencil. These work much better for me. I am curious, however, as to whether all of these lip enhancers/puffers/irritants have undergone long term study to determine whether the swelling increases future lip wrinkles. If anyone knows, please let me know. Thanks!

UGG Bella: fall moccasin/slipper (uggaustralia.com) in raisin. First of all let me say how totally, utterly, and completely unhappy I am with UGG customer service. I need to borrow someone's thumbs, because two thumbs down is just not enough to cover this transaction. Where to begin? I cannot even open their website using AOL...I have to open up a separate Internet Explorer window to even see their products. I do not know why this is. I have not had problems with any other site (cable modem), nor have they responded to inquiries as to why this happens. Nevertheless, they sent me an e-mail showing the new Bella for fall, which I then ordered in the coffee color (dark brown outer, natural fleece lining, pink leather tie). I had to pay $10.95 for shipping AND wait (unlike at Zappos, where my items ship next day for free) about a week to receive...yes...THE WRONG COLOR SHOES! Not only did they send me the raisin (purple) color through some glitch, but they say their records show that I ordered raisin and, therefore, I have to pay for return shipping to them on top of the outrageous shipping price I already paid. How nice. The shoes are NOT worth the $85 (before shipping) that I paid, the heels are loose while the toes are tight (I ordered a size up from my normal size, and two sizes up from my UGG Classic Boot size), the sides stick out making my feet look fat, and the fleece interior is sub-par (it seems to be hit or miss with UGG these days on fleece quality). UGG's customer service has flat refused to reimburse my shipping expense, despite the fact that I put the COFFEE color in my cart because "their records show raisin." I will NOT be ordering any items from their website again. In the future, everything will go through Zappos.com, and if Zappos doesn't have it, I don't need it. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN THIS ITEM AND THE SERVICE I DIDN'T RECEIVE!

2005-07-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Cole Haan "ANNETTE" gloves in luggage...nappa leather, braided leather trim, cashmere lining and cuff. I fell in love with these the moment I saw them in a fall preview, and I have been checking the Cole Haan site for these daily and FINALLY they are available for order (DONE!). Also available in dark brown and black.

2005-07-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Stila has just unveiled their new FALL COLORS! Check them out at StilaCosmetics.com.

This Week In Review

2005-07-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

1. Margaret Nicole wool bangle bag for fall (here with chocolate satin ribbon): I received this on Friday, and it is adorable. The size was just a bit smaller than I had anticipated which was a pleasant surprise. The wooden rings slip right over my arm and the bag is large enough to hold my cell phone, a checkbook-size wallet, and other handbag essentials. There are no interior pockets, but there is a delightful pink lining and a small magnetic snap closure. I carried the bag to a party last night and was complimented right away. I simply cannot say enough good things about this bag, or about Nicole from Margaret Nicole. My only problem is that a piece of yarn came loose, but we are working to fix that and I don't think it will be a big issue. This may be the the best buy of the year in terms of style for the price. I am waiting to hear whether the wool version will be offered in any additional colors and will keep you posted!

2. UGG Solvang Clog (Zappos.com): If you can find this shoe and you are an UGG fan, buy it. A bit pricey for a clog, but this one delivers where the Kalie and Tiburon have not...it is nice and roomy so the fleece doesn't crowd your toes, and fully lined for maximum interior fuzziness. (Note: I did have to order up a size in these, whereas with the UGG Classic Short boots I had to order down a size.) These are a bit on the heavy side, but that has not been a problem. The nice two inch heel makes them perfect for wear with longer jeans and bootcut jeans, and the gaucho leather can be wiped off with a damp cloth. After all of my recent ankle issues, I am wearing these now to teach in...and I can fit them on with my ankle brace. Love this one!

3. Birkenstock Eaton (OnlineShoes.com): This was a steal for a Birk! I scored these for about $58 off the original price during an OnlineShoes sale. They shipped the shoes free and gave me an additional 10% off the sale price during a promotion. They look more like a loafer-type shoe than the standard Birkenstock clog, and the little buckle detail is a nice touch (although not functional). The sides of these clogs come back further on my feet, so there is less worry about slippage, although this is not usually a problem with Birks due to the contoured footbed and toe bar. I will teach in these this fall, and can wear them with socks when it gets cold. The only problem I have found is that I am so short and these are flat shoes, so I won't be able to wear them with longer pants or jeans. If you have been leery of the Birks because they are ugly or you tried a wrong size, you may want to check them out again. Once you get into the correct size (mine is a size down from what I wear in every other shoe -- weird) they are heaven! And they are coming out with more fashionable designs all the time.

2005-07-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

Hogan Fringe Bag for fall...arriving soon in NYC and Miami

2005-07-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hogan Fall Shoppers in hunter and chocolate. The good news is that I have both of these bags already! One in the greeen, one in the chocolate...it looks like the only thing that's changed is the hardware from silver to a more brassy color. And maybe the lining color...I can't tell in the photo.

2005-07-22T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hogan Fall Military Bag. I have not yet decided whether this is cute. It seems a bit on the small side. What do you think?

2005-07-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

Prada Suede Grommet Cuff for fall. I think this is adorable, but it is a little "biker chic" for $199 (also available in lime and pink)

2005-07-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

A big "thank you" to Nicole of Margaret Nicole for sending me two photos of her show on "CBS this morning" which aired earlier today (apparently only on the East Coast...but we Midwesterners still love her!). This one came out a bit on the orange side, so I have altered it to black and white so you can better see the photo...bag also shown below...

2005-07-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

The Margaret Nicole fall bag as seen on-air this morning

2005-07-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

Skagen tooled leather watches...I really like these. I am a huge Skagen fan (the dials are SO flat!), and the bands on these are fantastic!

2005-07-20T15:23:00.001-07:00

The new UGG Bella for fall

2005-07-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

My yellow Scout making appearances again on the arm of Jessica Simpson

This Week in Review

2005-07-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

These are cosmetic items that I have purchased/received in the last week or so...I will try to make this a Sunday feature at least once a month, to review products I have tried and also to remind myself of all the "stuff" I buy!

1. Stila's limited edition "Vanity Fair" set (eBay purchase). This set includes an eyeshadow trio (one full size, one split pan) in pale pink and blue-greys (greys are going to be big for fall/winter), an all-over shimmer (the colorless one), and a sheer lipstick in "Becky." All of the items are packed neatly into a deep blue velvet Stila bag with a silver star pull and a pewter grosgrain-type lining. First of all, I love the velvet bag. Tres chic...and I can just throw it in my bag and go. I was also pleased to discover that the "Becky" lipstick is a sheer color, which is slightly more pinky-red than I am used to but I love it nonetheless (and will be trying another Stila sheer "Wendy" now that I have taken the lipstick plunge).

2. Stila's It Gloss in "Inviting" (Stila). This is a peachy shade from the newly-released It Gloss line. It has a lovely vanilla scent, and the color is quite nice, but I am not pleased with the brush delivery system...it goes on a bit gloppy. The color is scary in the tube, but goes on sheer. Not a bad gloss, love the scent (and no fruity or sweet taste -- always a plus), but would benefit tremendously from a different applicator.

3. MAC lip gelee in "Slicked Pink" (MAC, Dillards, or Saks). What can I say? This is absolute heaven in a cute little squeeze-applicator tube. The color is perfection, the application is easy, and the vanilla scent is divine. I have long been a huge fan of MAC lipglass, and this is a bit different...less sticky/tacky and more sheer. A+ on this one...definitely my new favorite!

4. Sarah Jessica Parker's new perfume "Lovely" (Nordstrom). This was due out for fall, but somehow Nordstrom got hold of it in time for their Anniversary promotions (check these out! Especially the cosmetic "extras" that are available during Anniversary week...some good deals to be had). I will admit that I cannot look at the name of this without thinking of the episode of SATC with the rooster on the roof who has a "very lovely life" but, that aside, this is a nice fragrance. I expected that it might be a little too much on the feminine side for me, but it is not overpoweringly flowery. More like a feminine, velvety soft fragrance. The egg-shaped bottle is cute, and fun to hold. It will join the "countertop collection."

Margaret Nicole (Bags) Update

2005-07-16T18:58:00.000-07:00

To my fellow handbag junkies -- an update. If you saw my earlier post on Margaret Nicole handbags and you love her new fall bag, or even if you just want to be up to speed on the latest and greatest for fall, tune in Thursday, June 21st to "CBS This Morning" at 6:45 to see the new Bangle Bag in a presentation of "It Bags for Fall." Even I, who has a very standoff-ish relationship with anything that smacks of "early morning" may have to tune in for this one. Thank heavens I got my order in before this airs...

Dark Water

2005-07-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

This movie gets a 6.5/10 on the Rachel scale. The half is optimistic, because I felt bad about giving it a 6 when it was tolerable. Jennifer Connelly looks like she starved herself for this role. I know the whole size 0-2 bit is in, but when your face looks gaunt and you appear generally ill you may have gone too far. Then again, the role calls for this, with Connelly popping pills and losing entire days. The "dark water" scenes are creepy in and of themselves, although the previews give pretty much ALL of the drama away. I had no idea it rained EVERY day in New York, but according to this movie such is the case. The apartment Connelly's character takes is repulsive. I cannot imagine anyone renting such a run-down, creepy, cramped place even before the water incidents begin. And there are items thrown into the movie that end up having no purpose. Connelly's husband (they are separating as the movie begins) apparently pays some guys to harass her (by saying she's hot and then standing in her way when she goes to do laundry), then we never see them again after this discovery. Her lawyer (played by Tim Roth -- I didn't even recognize him!) makes excuses of "being with his family" when he is alone (suggesting that he is going to end up bad when he is really the best thing to happen to her). The general creepiness of the building's super is also never borne out. And the whole bit about the "safety glass" in the shower (as they are initially shown the apartment) just screams "there is going to be a scene where someone gets stuck in the shower and she can't break the glass." DUH. I am generally disappointed in the lack of quality in movies lately. This one is okay. At the very least I will be leery of drinking tap water or entering old, dilapidated buildings in New York anytime in the near future.

2005-07-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

MAC Lip Gelee...I finally braved the mall and purchased this today in "Slicked Pink" and I have to say, this is fabulous! It is lighter and less "sticky" than the Lipglass or Lustreglass, and the color is enough to look lovely while keeping with the subtle summer approach (i.e., minimal makeup). I recommend this to anyone who is a lip gloss fiend. And...is that jello in the photo?

You know you're old when...

2005-07-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

...this is an appealing shoe. Honestly, my ankle is now swelling so much (still with no explanation, other than my accident 17 years ago that broke it in four places!) that I cannot get into half of my shoes, and standing up teaching for 5 1/2 hours at night is somehow not helping matters. I picked up a pair of Birkenstocks a while back when I saw them at Sam's for $39 -- cheap for Birks! They ended up being really comfortable. However, they are also horrifically expensive as a general rule for "non-designer ugly shoes." As in, $136 for this pair. BUT I ran across some of these at Sun & Ski earlier today, and they are really cute! Rather than shelling out cash on the spot (and they only had one pair in my size and those were scuffed), I went online and found them at OnlineShoes.com on SALE for about $50 off. And apparently they are having a "weekend special" because they knocked another 10% off AND gave me free shipping. So, it looks like I will have a new pair of shoes to wear to teach...and they could almost pass for a loafer.

Closer to Fall

2005-07-14T09:53:00.000-07:00

As of 10:20 p.m. today my class is officially halfway through the "semester." Three more class meetings (and I saved the fun stuff for the end) and we are DONE! Then I get a three-and-a-half week break before the real fall semester begins. This means that all of my goofing off all summer will shortly come to an abrupt halt...probably a good thing, since I'm getting lazy. The good news is that I have conquered half of the house and we are on our way to some semblance of organization. Now to tackle the office...

On another note, I received the new Bergdorf Goodman fall catalog in yesterday's mail, so the fall lines are slowly trickling in. I have shifted in my obsessions slightly and, instead of pining over NYC constantly I am now ALSO pining over a house in the mountains that overlooks the mountain range and a lake (earlier post on HGTV Dream Home 2006). I could still VISIT Manhattan, right?

Valentino V

2005-07-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Another great perfume for fall. I love that this smells fabulous -- not flowery! Fresh, citrus top notes of grapefruit, mandarin, fig, and freesia. Sensual heart notes of orange blossom, frangipani, rose petals, and heliotrope. Soft, warm base notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, amber, and musk. Available from Bergdorf Goodman for $82/3 ozs.

Bangle Bag for Fall

2005-07-11T19:56:00.000-07:00

I just discovered this Margaret Nicole bag on THE BAG LADY's blog, and am absolutely enthralled with it. Since I already have what can only be termed a "sweater fetish" this is a MUST HAVE for fall! Does anyone know how to keep it clean?

2005-07-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

I may be selling my green Hogan Weekend bag, as well. I just can't carry ALL of them! This bag is amazing, and green is huge for fall...but I already have one in the brown.