Cheerful Chats

Being Cheerful!

2009-06-30T07:15:00.001-07:00

Let’s just say that I ENJOY the comments people make to MOI!! Having spent the entire weekend celebrating VOLUNTEER weekend at the Art Center (welllllll………that wasn’t the exact title, but that’s what it felt like!!). I was working the “Creative Station” Kids Fest tent at the Fountain Square Art Fair-splitting the two days with a fellow staffer. The YOUNGER faculty artist was there for both days and remarked that she couldn’t believe all the energy I had for working there all weekend and being so CHEERFUL to the public!! That’s MOI-Always CHEERFUL! It was a command performance, since I spent both mornings working at the Art Center on preparing the “Bottle” installation for recycling and wasn’t so sure I could be very CHEERFUL!!!

We have an outdoor sculpture that sits on the lawn in front of the Art Center for an entire year. I search high and low for funding, since it costs $$$$. Everyone has great ideas for funding…but, then we all know how that goes!! I do manage to get grants and such, but it still doesn’t always cover the costs!! This current sculpture went up last June-you know the one with 5,000 bottles and messages in the bottles….Remember that! It actually ended up being very cool and one of the KEY components of the design was that it was COMPLELTELY recyclable! Sounds perfect! It is time for it go away and the new one is going up in early August..SOOOOOO, the Exhibition chair tells MOI that it is time for it to come down. Not so sure WHY this is my job…but, I guess the committee felt that the INTERNS could help!! The artist lives out of town and he said that he would come back to take it apart, but we would have to pay his expenses and I would need to assemble a large group of volunteers to help. Not wanting to spend ANY additional money on THIS sculpture….since I have to work on funding the NEXT one and thinking that since I had to get volunteers anyway…I WOULD DO IT MYSELF!! I had an intern find out about recycling the components…the Bottles could be recycled, but you have to take the little cork plugs out…..HMMMMM….didn’t seem to be too bad, had no idea that the cork plugs were JAMMED in there and difficult to remove…FOUND that out LATER!

The wood holding it together could be recycled, but has to have all nails removed (not too bad…how many nails could there be???) The PVC tubing could be recycled as is! YEAH! The plastic sheeting underneath the bottles could be recycled (didn’t realize that each bottle was SCREWED on (did I mention that there were 5,000 bottles??) to the plastic sheeting. And then there is that isty-bitsy problem of all the rain, so hard to find a date to get those volunteers together!!

SOOOOOO…..on to Plan B! Decided to have the interns take parts of the bottle sculptures (5 of them) down every moment it wasn’t raining! We have access to the four car garage that is on the property (although, we can’t keep everything in there for more than two weeks). So, once the deinstallation begins…the clock is ticking! We had four of the sculptures down and in a big heap in the garage, with only one to go…some days of rain slowed the process. Then…a curious thing happened…I received a call from a lovely woman who HEARD that we had bottles in a sculpture. She does the window design for Anthropology stores and was looking for a source for recycled bottles. She started to explain what Anthropology was….We know what Anthropology is…I explained!! I told her that I had several interns in the office and they were BIG FANS of Anthropology….I said that we could make a deal-recycled bottles for Anthropology gift cards! She laughed and said she would see what she could do…I asked her how she found out about our bottles and she said that she had sent a message out on Twitter that she need bottles and with in 10 minutes she had 15 people respond that we had bottles and they were going away! The power of TWITTER!! I loved it!! I told her that we would be happy to accommodate her with up to 5,000-but that some were not looking so FABULOUS! She arranged to come by the next day and left with 500! YEAH!! The bottles are going away! Stay tuned for the second life of those bottles! I told her that we (MOI et INTERNS) wanted to be invited to their window display debut (Chicago Store on N. State Parkway!) She also mentioned that they are opening a new store at Old Orchard and we might be able to do a shopping opening event there (SEEEEE….you get all the fashion retail news right here!!!!) HA HA HA!

Then, the next day with only one Bottle sculpture left standing, an email from the Artist came to MOI stating that he had submitted the sculpture to the America for the Arts award recognition program and this sculpture was selected for one of the top 40 sculptures in America for 2009! Well, this was very exciting news! I sent an eblast out to everyone to hurry and see it in the next few days, because this award winning sculpture was going away!! One thing the committee liked about the project was that it was made ENTIRELY of recyclable components!

The following day, the Boy Scouts (did I mention that I decided to rally the troops and call area Boy Scout troops to help out! All those years as a Cub Scout Pack leader has its perks!!) finally rounded up enough scouts to help pull out the corks, take the bottles off the sheeting, take the crews out of the wood!!! Of course, this was the same day as the Art Fair…The Boy Scouts wanted to meet at 8:30 a.m. both mornings-NO PROBLEM, so my co-worker went to the Art Fair for the early shift and then I headed over there in the afternoon until closing. Who needs to do anything else, when you can volunteer ALL weekend! The Boy Scouts and Dads arrived ready to go….I explained the project and they went to the task!! Thank goodness Jeffrey’s training for Eagle Scout Boot camp prepared MOI for this task!! We had all the requirements (you have to put the bottles in boxes – not plastic bags, so a trip to UHaul and several $$$ later provided boxes…..One Board member later suggested that to save money, I should have gone around to grocery stores to get donated boxes…I just smiled). The boys did a great job, but everyone had to leave at noon-no problem because another crew was coming on Sunday a.m. Things started out at a fast clip-several boys made the boxes, other boys began taking the bottles off the plastic sheeting….but then, there came the corks…not so simple to take them out! One of the Boy Scouts started using his teeth-and then another suggested a CORK SCREW! Those 7th graders are so CREATIVE! I said that the Art Center does have Cork Screws!! Ran inside to fetch several and guess what….the Boy Scouts knew HOW to use those cork screws! They get all sorts of training these days!!! In fact, the Dads were also impressed that the boys knew how to use cork screws!!! It must be part of the Gourmet Badge or perhaps the Wine Tasting Badge!

It was noon and with a third of the bottles in boxes, I thanked the kids-I had high hopes..corks in one box, bottles in others…one Dad said that he was interested in taking some of the wood…things were looking well…..looking very recyclable-

Sunday a.m., rushed over to find one lone Boy Scout waiting….he said he wasn’t sure if anyone else was coming today….After an hour, things did not look good! SOOOO, I called Jeffrey and told him to get over to the Art Center right away! I had to be over at the Art Fair by 1:30 p.m. and I REALLY need for the Bottles to be OVER!!! Did I mention that I wasn’t sure WHY this was my job??????! So Jeffrey and I made some executive decisions….forget the corks-we just started putting all the bottles in the boxes…Wouldn’t the cork melt in high heat or however they melt the plastic??…Jeffrey wasn’t so convinced…then, that wood…the Boy Scout Dad was going to SELECT the pieces that he wanted and bind them together with special tape….I was so OVER that-plus, he didn’t show up…so, the wood just went in a big heap…Jeffrey did his best to not say too much-but he could tell that this wasn’t my finest hour! I kept telling myself that I RECYCLE constantly….so that I might be forgiven by the recycling Gods if I ended up pitching part OR ALL of these materials at some point….I even dared to dream of ordering a large Dumpster….Just a dream, since I would probably have to raise the money to pay for that too!

We swept out most of the garage and had all the boxes in a somewhat organized fashion. The wood looked respectable in a large pile and the PVC piping was in another corner. I have to call for the BIG PICK up from the recycling company tomorrow. One of the Boy Scout Dads suggested that I could “tip” the recycling pick up folks and they might look the other way with those corks….At the time, I was thinking….no way…NOW…SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT IDEA….Note to self…stop by the bank in the a.m. and pick up $100’s!!!

Rushed over to the Art Fair to greet the public and answer all sorts of questions…my favorite from a nice young college student wondering where he could buy a blanket in the area…HMMMMM…. “Uncle Dan’s” Army/Navy Surplus store! It’s AMAZING what you know! I was sitting with a Board Member (All the Board members signed up to work shifts – which was very nice, but you then had to “chat” all afternoon!) and she was impressed with the fact that I knew to go there! I told her that I was a huge FAN of Camping-love to sleep on the floor, especially in Japan!

At the end of the day, when we were cleaning up and I had to use my “It’s time for EVERYONE to go home” voice…since, several families were having a wonderful time at the Art tent and it was getting late and I REALLY WANTED TO GO HOME, the fact that I still sounded CHEERFUL, truly AMAZED MOI!

Here’s a brief glimpse of MOI in action. I am in the middle of video and it’s quick, but fun! Go to this website:

And for the Fashionistas!

Ken Downing for Neiman’s picks a few of his Fav’s and guess what!! Studded pocket jeans!!! VERY similar to the pair I bought at Kmart! You heard it here first!!!

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog

Saw an interesting article in MORE mag about the beauty regime of a Plastic Surgeon. She said that she can TOTALLY RELATE to her clients, now that she is 46! She looks VERY GLAM…I haven’t tried these at all…but I am RUNNING out to get them all! If it works for her….

Daytime:

Clinique Medical Probiotic Cleanser $28, www.cliniquemedical.com

Fresh Crème Ancienne, $250; www.fresh.com (Pricey I know…but she DOES look good!)

Sun Block: Nia 24 Sun Damage Protection SPF 30; $24, www.nia24.com

Evening:

She repeats the regimen, but also uses Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5, $50; www.skinceuticals.com, instead of the sunscreen-so INTERESTING…I thought perhaps her “healthy glow” came from sleeping under a sun lamp.

O.K. and in the interest of FULL DISCLOSURE…she did say that she uses Botox, but what has made the BIGGEST difference is using fillers to get rid of the hollowing under her eyes. Not only does it make her LOOK less tired, but she actually FEELS less tired!!

WHO KNEW!

Have a great week! I am taking next Sunday off from the email-Holiday weekend and all…in fact..I think I actually get the 4th off!! HA HA HA!

Love, P

Old Vanna’s!

2009-05-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

It was a BEVY of BEAUTIES! Just one after another! I had called in the interns for the Art Center Benefit! AND THEY CAME! One after another arrived on Saturday evening, looking so adorable and chic in their LBD’s! AND THE SHOES-so FAB! It was also a homecoming! I hadn’t seen some for months!!! Lots of hugs and kisses..OMGoodness…We have an event that is beginning!! The nice thing about interns is that you have all different ages…in fact, dear friend Anne Jameson said that she would come and help and be an “Old Intern!” We both settled on “EXPERIENCED Intern!” I now even have management levels. Come to find out the Fashion Designer intern is 30 years old, so I have given her the title of Managing Director of the Interns! She loves it and is busy writing a manual for the interns! How strategic is this??!!! I gave her the task of organizing the live auction spotters. Another intern is 25 and trying to switch professions, so I gave her the job of explaining how to close out the Silent Auction. Of course, so thrilled that my “Experienced Intern” was a greeter at the door! Could it get any better than this! No need to worry about Check In! Anne to the rescue!! This is truly what friends are for!! Then, Carla Vorhees arrived with her 8th grade daughter and friends to “Model” the jewelry that we had on auction! Of course, the all looked ADORABLE and so chic!! Had them walk around doing a little “informal modeling” for all to see! It was a happening! Just had to LOVE all the energy of these wonderful young women!

The evening moved along! The models were modeling…the raffle ticket sellers were selling and the “management” level interns had things moving at a fast clip! Out came the chairs for the Live Auction and suddenly it was lights..camera…Live Auction! Somehow, I found myself at the front of the room with the Benefit Chair, instead of off to the side! Oh well…not really wanting to be up front and center (I know you will all find this hard to believe-but this is for my job, after all!). I had two interns assigned to be the Vanna’s (holding up each Live Auction Item)-a nice change from previous years, when it was all men! Unfortunately, one of the interns started coughing and had to leave the stage. The other “Vanna” had to close out part of the auction…SO….I looked at the Benefit Chair and said…WE ARE ON! And she looked at MOI and said, “OLD VANNA’S!”

The evening continued at a fast clip-everyone seemed to do their job PERFECTLY! We all were ready for a post-event celebration at a local bar! Everyone was talking about clothes, shoes and hair…OF COURSE…I am SO ALL ABOUT THIS! Then, the talk changed to how adorable the 13 year old girls looked and so sophisticated. The 22 year olds all commented that they didn’t look like that in 8th grade. Some things never change!

This time of year, the interns graduate and new ones arrive! Of course, discussion follows about the fact that they NEED TO GET A JOB THAT PAYS! Perhaps, I should let their parents know that I am also on THEIR side, trying to get these kids out their looking for jobs! One intern is so adorable and just can’t bear to look for a job. I have her now in Paula’s Boot Camp program for looking for a job! It is SO much easier, when it isn’t your own child!! Step one: Spreadsheet with all jobs applied, follow-up, next steps…You know the drill!

I try to stress that you also have to network! You can’t just apply on line-you have to get out and try to have informational interviews!! It is surprising how many young folks DON’T know this!

Step two: Interview suit! “Where are their Mother’s??” I am often surprised at how many interns don’t have something to wear to an interview!! Since I am, of course, the surrogate (or local) Mother…it is my duty to get these kids SOMETHING to wear!!

I was taking them to an Arts Conference in the city. I told them they had to wear something PRESENTABLE! NO JEANS!

One showed up with Grey Slacks (they were hemmed) and a long thin turtleneck sweater…o.k…so far, but finished off with a bolero sweater in lime green and a little neck scarf. That Bolero…maybe not what I would have done, but it worked!! The other had a skirt (good start) and then several layers of T-shirts and ballet flats. ALMOST there!

Step two was heading to Thrift House for a few wardrobe additions! I told them that these clothes were donated by business women and would be the perfect accent to their wardrobes at very little $$$! You would have thought I had asked them to jump in freezing water! Undeterred…we head to the shop! I march them in and head straight to the “suit” section! I could see their looks of DISDAIN! Ah….ye of little faith! What are these kids thinking…that they can wear just any old thing to interview??? Again, WHERE ARE THEIR MOTHER’S??? I looked at both of them and started to pull out as many “acceptable” jackets as possible! I just said…REMEMBER, you only have to wear it for a few hours…during your interview….YOU DON’T HAVE TO WEAR IT CLUBBING!!! That seemed to resonate! They both passed on a Max Mara Black jacket…too much GSP (GINORMOUS Shoulder Pads)! The Fashion Designer was also with us (she had a suit, but came along for the ride!) and she was trying to help convince them that you could TAKE the GSP’s out of the suit. There we were in Thrift House, turning the Jacket inside out to see if we could take the shoulder pads! We both agreed that it could be done! Still rejected (I was too busy to try it on, but may head back for it!!!! Max Mara is Max Mara!), but success with a tweed jacket. Upon inquiry to see if she had slacks or a skirt to go with it…she assured MOI that she did…HMMMMM…She also picked up a Vera scarf –“it’s Vintage!!” Don’t you just love that things you used to own are now VINTAGE!

From one extreme to another! Spend the other part of the week with the Ohara School Sensei from Japan. I had been designated the Welcome Hostess, since he was staying at a hotel, close to our house. I was to meet two Japanese women (WHO SPOKE JAPANESE) at the airport, since we weren’t sure how much English Nishi-san could understand and speak! I arrived at the airport early (I know HARD TO BELIEVE!), only to find his flight was early….HMMMM….where are those lovely Japanese ladies??

I started calling them..they were stuck in traffic….HMMMMM….had seen a small photo of Nishi-san..but, well…not sure I could identify him with so many Japanese people coming from the flight! Rummaged around my purse, NO NOTE PAPER (note to self, you have so many FABULOUS note pads…why don’t you carry one around???)…so, used the back of a check to write NISHI-SAN on it and held it up like all the other drivers! For those of you wondering…I did write it very carefully-so easy to read!! O.K., here come all the people…Where are the Japanese ladies????

All of the sudden…NISHI-SAN appeared! Of course, he is adorable! In his late 40’s—so nice!! He sees my sign and I give him the Big Wave!! Lots of Cheering…I am sure the guy almost had a heart attack! I told him we had to wait for the Japanese Ladies, who arrived within a few minutes! Lots of conversation and explanation-Nishi-san was going with MOI to the Hotel. He seemed to speak English perfectly (although, he really didn’t have a chance to say too much with all of us!). I told him that if he had any questions, he should ask the Japanese ladies now or it would have to wait until tomorrow!!

The Japanese ladies had instructed MOI that I needed to get Nishi-san a “Welcome Basket” for his hotel room! Of course, in Japan, this could mean just about anything…..It could cost hundreds of dollars!! They also said that Nishi-san likes to drink wine! SOOOO…headed off to the local grocery store and ordered a large Fruit Basket (you know the kind), and found these six packs of small individual bottles of wine (who knew!), chips, nuts, beef jerky (I couldn’t remember if Japanese people like jerky or not…..) and cookies! It took up two grocery bags-that fruit basket stood alone!! I had enough food for an army!! I was worried that he would wake up in the middle of the night and be starving!! I had it in the car-ready to Welcome Nishi-san!

We started driving to the hotel – it’s funny how you notice your surroundings in a new light, when you are driving someone who is new to the area…HMMM…. “Much Construction on Roads” What can you say?? Plus, spring had just started, lots of trees were just starting to flower, so a bit stark….We both discussed this….Nishi-san seemed a bit concerned that we would be able to find suitable branch material. I told him not to worry….This is Chicago…we can get anything!!! We continued to chat about Japan and Ikebana International…I told him that I used to make an arrangement at the annual meeting at the Tokyo American Club. They always had all the Master Sensei from the different schools make large arrangements and then they would ask Ikebana International members to do small arrangements around the room. For some reason, I was always asked (I say this because I have no idea why they would ask MOI-since there were so many arrangers to choose from. I think my Ikebana Sensei always put my name in-one will never know!). I would always get the first spot at the entrance-maybe because of my last name being DA…..

For some reason, we discussed this topic in detail. Nishi-san asking many questions about what years I was there….We arrived at the Hotel and I helped him with his bags and check in-then presented him with my “Welcome” presents. I must have totally overwhelmed him! He just stood there-speechless! I thought all he probably wanted to do was to get away from MOI! As we were leaving…he said, Danoff-san, I remember you from those Ikebana International shows….

Time to shop!

Steve Madden shoes at Jildor are FAB! Follow this link and it will take you to other FAB shoes too!

And Fab jewelry at Tina Tang. This ring is adorable. It is on back order, but worth the wait!! I bought it earlier!!

Time for self-tanners: Nivea continues to improve and Nivea Sun-Kissed Beautiful Legs at your local drug and grocery store is very FAB! Remember…NO STOCKINGS! Only Nude fishnets!!!

AND…Neiman’s Last Call has opened at Gurnee Mills! I was trying to get there this weekend, but alas…it just didn’t happen! Word on the street is that it is WORTH THE DRIVE!!!

Have a great week!

Love, P

Warm Weather!

2009-02-09T04:20:00.000-08:00

Hi all-
I am SO SO SORRY, but I have to take a pass on writing tonight! The
weather in Chicago is so fabulous! It was 60 degrees
yesterday....but, with that lovely warm weather comes the dreaded
Migraine from a 50 degree change in temperature. My head is not
thinking clearly (at least now I have an excuse!!) and I am headed to
bed! I promise a full report next week!!!! I do want to leave you
with this....Kohl's rolled out it's Dana Buchman line...I was actually
very excited to see what it looked like-having HIGH expectations!
What a disappointment!! It looked like...well....clothes for old
ladies! The shoes were horrible...so dowdy-well, not all...there is a
nice pair of black patent sandals that have straps with a 2 inch
stacked heel. That's it! The jewelry is so-so...you are better off
at TARJAY or with the Simply Vera line!! The clothes...such a
disappointment! It looks like Tory Burch knock off's!! Better off
trying to find Tory Burch on sale. Loehman's has a nice selection of
Tory Burch on sale-so go there!!!!!

If you have to buy shoes...and I know you do...go with the Wedge
heeled sandals. Watch the heels-not the chunky kind. See if you can
find the narrow wedge heel-a much better look!!

More next week I promise!!!!

Lots of love,
P

p.s. Confessions of a Shopaholic opens on the 13th! YEAH!!!

"Welcome Home!"

2009-02-02T04:19:00.000-08:00

Why is it that things always seem like a GREAT idea when the call
comes in…then, when the day comes…You are saying, WHAT WAS I
THINKING???" We still have our condo in the city and now it sits
empty due to a change in the condo rules which do not allow for any
rentals. Charlie lived there for a time last year and we have it
functionally furnished (i.e. fine for young men to live in!!). I had
thought of making it adorable and bringing down all those FAB Japanese
antiques that I have in the attic-sort of like Antique Roadshow meets
Chi-Town apartment….but, then I think…do I want the boys using the
apartment with all my lovely things…..HMMMMM…best to keep it
FUNCTIONAL! But, I used to host the Tri-Delt Alumni Loop Group
meetings in the party room when I lived downtown…SO…When the call came
in asking if I would host a meeting, I thought POURQUOI PAS!! The
party room is on the top floor and has a nice view of the city. It is
clean and ready to go!! The meeting starts at 6 p.m. and so I had to
figure out how to pick up the food (keep it warm), and pack up the
beverages and paper goods. I started the a.m. loading up the car with
vino, brought two cases…it's the Tri-Delts after all. Several of my
interns have told MOI that the Tri-Delts were known to be quite the
party gals…so, wanted to make sure I was with the program. The Loop
Group tends to be the very young and well…The OLDER!! Found a
restaurant that was halfway between work and downtown and I could
drive up and pick it up! Did I mention that it was FREEZING out???!!
So after several trips in the a.m. lugging everything, I was packed
and ready to go. Of course, the day got away from MOI and the next
thing I knew…I had to be on the road NOW! Rushed to the restaurant,
picked everything up and they mentioned that they had included sterno
heaters…SO NICE..but, then I realized NO MATCHES to light the
sterno….OH Well! Maybe I can get some at the condo!

Arrived at 5:45 p.m. and jumped out of the car…The Doorman came out to
great MOI and said with a big smile, "Welcome Home!"
WELCOME HOME! I just had to laugh! SO FABULOUS! And then the MOST
AMAZING THING HAPPENED! He proceeded to help me unload the car…I
pulled it into the WARM parking garage and finished unloading. AND
THEN THE NEXT MOST AMAZING THING HAPPENED. Several of the young DDD's
were waiting in the lobby. The Doorman said that he knew they were
my friends, since I always have such "good looking" friends....IS THIS
FELLOW FOR REAL??! What ever we pay him…it should be DOUBLED!
Rushed upstairs with all my "good looking" Delta sisters…and then we
all whipped into action. NO instruction in setting up a party needed
with this crowd. AND here is ANOTHER amazing thing…I didn't know any
of these gals, but it was just like a well rehearsed Opera. They all
started taking things out of boxes, setting tables, opening VINO and
in 10 minutes we were ready to roll! We didn't even have a moment to
introduce each other! It turns out that this was the first meeting
for 6 of the young ladies. Had to make them feel welcome. The
meeting didn't really have a theme, so I thought we could start off
with Champagne and take it from there!! Opened several bottles and
then we moved to red and white varieties. Fairly soon all had
assembled and time for dinner!! The Nice Doorman managed to find
some matches for MOI, so the dinner was warming up! With so many new
attendees, we decided that everyone would tell a story about something
AMAZING that happened to them…or something like that! By now we were
into our second case of wine. Of course, I was the only one
DRIVING-these gals were taking taxis, so no worry about how much VINO
one would be consuming!! Plus, I guess they have to maintain our
current reputation as the Party Gals! It was so interesting to hear
the stories of these young gals! Fortunately, dear friend Linda
O'Bryant was there to balance out the age range! The two of us vs.
the youngsters!! Many of these young gals had been working for a year
or so, several had just been laid off…all seemed optimistic! One gave
a hilarious story about how she was a personal shopper for a Hotel
Client who needed a dress for New Years Eve. Now we are talking!! No
one seemed to have any angst that Men weren't taking them seriously in
the business world. IN FACT, we did talk about working in the old
days and guess what…it revolved around FASHION…The young ones wondered
how we could have worn those horrible TIES!! The Fashionista DDD
also revealed that she writes for the fashion blog, Glossed and
Found-see it at this link-
http://www.beautyoncall.com/gf/index.php
It's a great website and super ideas for fashion and LIFE! Who KNEW??!!

The evening wrapped up at 10:30 p.m. (did I mention this was WEDNESDAY
EVENING) with several of the DDD's going out clubbing! Ah YOUTH!!!
Of course, all helped to clean up (have to love these gals!). We
loaded up several grocery carts and took the elevator to the lobby. I
did notice that we went through 20 bottles of VINO for 26 gals…that
HAS to be a record! I arrived in the lobby and told the Doorman that
I was leaving the carts for a moment, since I wanted to check on the
condo. He smiled and said No PROBLEMO! Back down from the apartment
and I noticed the carts were gone…upon further inspection, I noticed
my car parked in front with the engine on and items all loaded inside!
I MISS THAT LIFE!

A busy week of seminars and grants!! I was having a moment of
despair-well perhaps MORE than a moment, more like a MELT-DOWN over
trying to get a grant written in two days. I had to wait for
information from the artist in order to finish the grant and time was
running out. I was also on deadline for getting out PR for our next
exhibition and oh…trying to get the invitation ready for our Spring
Benefit. Plus, I had to entertain the DDD'S, so I couldn't work late
to finish it! ONE HAS TO HAVE PRIORITIES!! SOOOOO….I needed that
grant to be finished and I needed it to be finished NOW! I had the
good fortune to have an intern who wanted to learn about grant
writing! She was completing her PHD in Molecular Biology or something
like that..I thought PERFECT for the Art Center!! She really raised
the bar on the internship program! She helped with writing several
grants in the fall and then went home for the holidays. Her Hubby is
at Kellogg and she is here for the year until he graduates. I didn't
hear from her early January, but as always…one has to be very thankful
for whatever help one can get! HIGH ROAD! I thought she probably had
found another job or had had enough of MOI! Then…when things always
look their darkest…an email arrives! Hi Paula, just back from
visiting family. I would love to help you with any future grants.
Truly…prayers were answered. She was in my office the next day and we
had that grant ready to go on time! INTERNS ROCK!

Had time to attend a seminar on "How to make money in a down economy."
No, this wasn't sponsored by Kellogg…they didn't seem to find it
necessary to address that problem. It was sponsored by the Arts and
Business Council. A great organization that has excellent seminars to
help Arts organization work more efficiently! Naturally, I never
really learn anything NEW at these, but it is always important to know
that one is on the right path! The keynote speaker made it clear that
in order to survive in this economy, the MFA's need to think like
MBA's! OMGosh! What a NOVEL idea! The most perfect of seminars.
Looking around the room, I felt it was safe to assume that I was the
only MBA in the crowd. I could see the MFA's struggling to wrap their
arms around this concept. Give up my artist esthetic??? Realizing
that budgets DO MATTER. The speaker recognized that it would be
difficult to be sure. I just smiled and tried to be reassuring…TRUST
MOI…You will survive this!!

Call it the Mom FACTOR! We had a rental at the Art Center on Saturday
evening. A nursery school wanted to hold their fundraiser at the Art
Center. I thought it would be fabulous-one has to find CREATIVE ways
to raise funds in this economy! We don't really do this kind of
thing, so I was in charge for the evening. We also hired one of the
maintenance fellows to be on call. So fun to watch the Moms and Dads
transform the Art Center with decorations and auction items. So fun
because it wasn't MY EVENT! They all seemed very excited and
enthusiastic! I watched as Dads moved tables and chairs around,
helped with any set up requested by their wives…AH YOUTH! Wait until
your kids get into Jr. High and you have decorated that gym COUNTLESS
times! Anyway, the party was fun or at least sounded like FUN! I
retired to my office and then made spot checks throughout the evening.
The maintenance fellow was busy taking out garbage and helping during
the event. All seemed to be going well! The event was to be over at
11 p.m….everyone was having SO MUCH FUN that they stayed until 11:30
p.m. and what a surprise..only one couple was on the clean-up detail.
HMMMM…..we had to move all those tables that the crew of nice Dads had
moved earlier in the evening back to where they were, clean up the
floors and rooms. We had classes the next day, so we needed to leave
it ready to go! We all pitched in, but I felt so sorry for that one
couple-where were the other parents???!! Could have used some
Tri-Delts!!! Of course, the next thing we knew it was 1:00 A.M. The
maintenance fellow seemed worried (he does not have a face for
poker!). He had told me that his friend was going to pick him up
after the event. I asked him what time his ride was going to arrive.
He said that his ride wasn't going to be able to pick him up. What's
a MOM to do??? I inquired where he lived. In Bucktown-an area that
would be about a 40 minute drive. I could offer to pay for a taxi-but
didn't really want to wait for the taxi to arrive. Plus, the POINT of
having a rental is to MAKE money, not to spend it on $50 taxi rides!
Let's go-I'll give you a ride home!

Stopped in at Payless and was thrilled to find the following FAB SHOES!
Dexter Mayflower Buckle Pump in Mushroom or Black! $29 Don't let
the name DEXTER scare you. These pumps have an adorable buckle and
stacked heel. The mushroom color is PERFECT for spring! Plus, they
are comfortable!

Abaeté for Payless Gabriel Gladiator, $38, in Black is FABULOUS!
You can wear it now with Black Opaque pantyhose and then with bare
legs once it warms up! They also have the Abaeté for Payless Wyatt
Gladiator Slingback, $38, in Tan. Both are so chic and SO NOW…and for
these prices you can buy them all! The Abate line also has a very
cute black ballet flat!

alice + olivia for Payless Terry Messenger $20 on sale (online).
This messenger bag features a structured canvas bag with bold patent
accents and a Hot Pink satin lining!! It is 12"x 12" and includes an
inside zipper. SO ADORABLE!!

And a trip to the Japanese grocery store for those MUST HAVE
ITEMS…revealed a new skin care facial wash. With a name like "Lift
Wash" how could you resist! It seems like a great cleanser-will keep
you posted on the LIFT progress!!
Have a great week!
Love, P

“I like to call myself the Cultural Anthropologist of Cosmetics…..

2009-01-26T06:39:00.001-08:00

MOI AUSSI! I knew that Soc-Anthro degree would come in handy one of
these decades!!

OH PLEASE…give Moi a break! Where do these women come from???! I
know, I know..I should be PRO all these Executive women types, but
sometimes I just want to say…WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE??!! After what
I would characterize as one of my busiest weeks to date, a good thing
I know, but sometimes….From having to find $$$ funding for a new
exhibition that wasn't going to happen and now everyone wants to
happen, and of course all eyes turned toward MOI to see if I can get
it funded…NO PRESSURE…HA HA HA! To having both groups of women, who
are renting out the Art Center for their school fundraisers arriving
at the EXACT same time (neither let MOI know they were coming) to go
over all details! FORTUNATELY….I can do this in my SLEEP! I am a
PROFESSIONAL!! HA! But, they seemed impressed that I had the floor
plans, coat racks, tables and as a bonus…menu suggestions!! Event
Planning at it's finest! Did I mention that all this was going on
while we were trying to set up for an exhibition opening…..Talk about
Multi-tasking!

So, how RELAXING to spend a Saturday at the Kellogg Marketing
Conference!! As I was rushing out the door Saturday a.m….Jeff gave
MOI a warning NOT to go shopping…No Danger Darling…although, I could
check out the Book Store!! Made it with just minutes to spare…the
Opening speaker was from Kellogg Company, of all things! He had a
nice title-Global VP of Consumer Insights…don't you think we could ALL
do that job….I mean think about it…we consume and we have insight!
What I love about this conference is that I get to test my brain to
see if I can still FOLLOW and UNDERSTAND the discussions!!!! Plus,
you get to check out all the new titles that abound!! I arrived and
met a cheerful looking fellow, who was also rushing in. When it gets
to be close to zero, you find that you are friendly to fellow freezing
folks! We shared pleasantries as we were running to get indoors!! He
asked what I did and I told him a title. He gave me a nod of approval
(that's a first!) and then told MOI what he did….VP of Consumer
Engineering blah..blah..blah…I gave him a BIG smile and nod of
approval!! Consumer Engineering…now that's something! Engineering
WHAT???? I wanted to ask, but we were both inside the lecture room by
now.

The speaker was giving a history of Frosted Flakes (a personal
favorite!) and how they are positioning an older brand for the future!
It turns out that Frosted Flakes isn't really about eating cereal, it
is about building self esteem and sports! WHO KNEW??? I just don't
remember getting that message as I ate my frosted flakes…I just
remember that they were filled with sugar and DELICIOUS!!! And
probably fattening…but, at that time, wasn't so concerned with
counting those calories!!!! AND I certainly wasn't interested in
nutritional qualities. To be honest, I was surprised they are still
making that cereal with the same formula?? I thought perhaps it would
be whole grain…maybe unsweetened?? OR better yet, sweetened with
Splenda???!! Kids love that and so much better for you than real
sugar!!! Nope, just changing the message and now it's about building
self esteem and Baseball fields! Well, there's a twist. To be
honest, I don't remember any cereal building a baseball field….this is
really something! He went on to give a fabulous power point about the
entire marketing strategy (wish I had it, could be useful for when I
am trying to sell those donors on that exhibition program…If eating
frosted flakes can build baseball fields…just THINK what a donation to
the exhibition program will do for THE WORLD!!!). They have set up a
website and you can go to it-put your child's picture on a page and it
will print out a baseball card with your child on it. Now, that's
something…you don't have to spend $60 to buy all those prints-you can
do it for free on this website…HMMMMMM maybe we could have a link to
the website and since the Moms are saving all that money downloading
the baseball card on this website-they could then take the money they
saved from not having to buy a zillion photos and donate it to the art
center!! Sounds like a plan,….but, the power point did not contain
that plan!

It went on to say that all types of marketing channels would be used
to create brand awareness and to get their message out that if you eat
Frosted Flakes and GO to a special Website, you can vote for your
favorite baseball field. Kellogg will pay to build new baseball
fields across the country for areas that don't have them! Each town
that wants a baseball field has to write a story and you can read all
the stories and VOTE for your favorite story. I wonder if you have to
put in the product scanning number in order to vote??? I found it
interesting that the advertising they were going to do would be in
magazines such as US, TV Guide and Touch magazine…HMMMMM….lots of Moms
must have changed their reading habits, since my kids were little??!
That would really reach a large audience….And then there is every
Mom's favorite – the end of aisle display (which has a fancy name, but
I can't remember it now). You know the one that sticks out with all
this stuff on it and you bump it with your cart, because if doesn't
fit in the aisle and all the boxes fall over and OH…THE WATER
BOTTLES…water bottles and Frosted Flakes…PERFECT would fall all over
the floor. I did think the orange water bottles were very cute! AND
I must say, they showed the box design in one of the slides…it was
interesting to see it in one dimension-it actually looked like a FEAT
of engineering!! During the Q and A, I was tempted to ask if they
were using a "control" group to see if eating Frosted Flakes did in
fact build self-esteem? Or perhaps, how were they going to measure
their results? Poll 50+ year olds who ate Frosted Flakes, not knowing
it could build self-esteem and see how many grew up to have
self-esteem on their own? What other factors could cause high
self-esteem besides cereal??? It seems to me a difficult thing to
measure?? It is one thing to grow up having high self-esteem without
knowing that you needed to have self-esteem vs. knowing that you could
build self-esteem by eating a certain cereal. I wanted to share my
concerns with fellow conference attendees, but they were much more
interested in texting each other during the lecture…and then rushing
out for the free snacks and coffee during the break!

I looked forward to my first "break out" session, a panel discussion
on the timely topic of "Minorities as the New Majority." Being a Baby
Boomer now qualifies one for being in the minorities mix-marketers are
now targeting this group, while still keeping their "consistent" brand
identity! I had NO IDEA that I had been relegated to a group that
wasn't targeted any longer. It just seems like the world has passed
MOI by!! So, it was with great interest that I wanted to listen to
how I was going to be targeted! The first woman started out with her
Cultural Anthropologist intro-she actually is THE VP of marketing
diversity at a cosmetics firm…NOW WHO KNEW these jobs were out
there???! She was very attractive, as you can imagine, and was hardly
wearing any make-up (maybe she should visit one of her PRESTIGE (as
she liked to put) counters in a department store to get a little
make-over…the natural look isn't so easy to carry off once you hit 40!
She had been a fashion designer and has been with this PRESTIGE
company for 10 years….She was wearing this incredible jewelry, so I
decided to concentrate on it, since I found her to be a little too
much about HER! She had on 4 different necklaces starting with a
chocker of light crystal beads (2 strands), then 2 strands of medium
colored looking stones-like citrine, followed with two more strands of
perhaps Black Jet beads and finishing with 2 strands of pearls. Each
necklace fit right below the next, not layers on top of each other,
but separate layers. The beads were all about the same size as the
pearls. It was FABULOUS!! This would be easy for all of you to do…I
know you have all these types of necklaces in your closets and wearing
just two strands doesn't look right. It also wasn't a "heavy" look
because they were all the same size! You could do the same thing with
bracelets…just put on different ones to get the "cuff" look. She
went on to discuss different target markets in her PRESTIGE (and every
time she said it-she said it very SLOWLY….with the accent falling on
the last syllable as in PahLEEZZZZ….) product lines. I found myself
fitting in with the "casual Lipstick user!" Finally, a name for it!
Although…I wanted more info on the Beauty Aficionados! What a FAB
title!

The panel also had a woman who CONFESSED to be 47 and she worked with
those aging baby boomers targeting products that would work for them.
Although, at 47 she didn't think that she was that old and was so
surprised that soon she would be over 50 and folks wouldn't target her
any longer. She seemed to be very concerned about this (or rather…I
could read between the lines, since I was probably the only one in the
audience who actually was OVER 50!). She also mentioned that part of
her job was working with senior management and HR to say that they
shouldn't let the 60 year old person go, even though a 23 year old
could do their job. The OLDER worker has something to contribute.
(Although, she didn't elaborate on what the 60 year old did
contribute) I thought that was charitable of her-but also could sense
that she could see the writing on the wall! She could do with a
little of those PRESTIGE make-up products to give her an edge as she
gets to that 50 (keep 'em guessing, I always say!!) She was also very
kind in that she felt that joining AARP doesn't mean that you are
old-I agree…you get all kinds of bargains! And it would be even
better if they added discounts at Neiman's to their list! I guarantee
more people would join!

I left the session relieved to know that I am a casual lipstick user
and diverse! Just THINK of the money I have saved not having to go to
an analyst!! I look forward to seeing a plethora of products that
will soon be targeted to MOI! Perhaps the folks at Kellogg with find
a way to give one a youthful glow by eating Frosted Flakes!

And again….just when you think things look bleak-a moment of
brightness! We had a wonderful Ikebana International meeting today.
It was a demonstration and workshop given by my teacher. We had it
downtown in the south loop, at a Flower Arranging school. One of the
members called to see if we could drive together. Of course, I don't
MIND..but, I often like to do errands on my way home….you know….And I
would have to drive 20 minutes out of my way to meet her at a central
location. Oh well…what's another 20 minutes. And here is what really
made MOI nervous…we had to meet at 9:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning. It
was hovering around zero, so I couldn't be late, since I didn't want
her to freeze! So, rushing around this a.m. trying to get there on
time..again….asking myself, WHY DO I DO THESE THINGS??! She was
waiting and fortunately, she hadn't been there long! We had a
pleasant ride down and the demonstration was terrific. She used a
silver leaf protea which has a silvery flower and the silver shade of
leaves was very cool! It was one of those arrangement where you have
to manipulate all the leaves and staple and tape them…I do love this
type of arrangement, but it isn't the easiest for MOI! Also, I have
been hit or miss on taking classes over the past few years, so I get a
bit nervous when I am arranging with all the Japanese ladies!
(although, they are very kind and would NEVER say anything to MOI-but,
I know when they are talking about MOI!). And as we all know with
Ikebana, sometimes it can get rough, with teachers taking out your
entire arrangement and "helping" you do it "a better way." In the
interest of time, I went about making my arrangement finishing within
about 15 minutes "….in Ikebana one THINKS about the arrangement for 45
minutes and arranges in 15 minutes." I was in the back of room, so I
don't know if my teacher was tired by the time she got to my
arrangement, or was actually sincere. I stood waiting for the
"critique." Ready to take action and rearrange. She walked up and
looked at it and, I KID YOU NOT….said, "Oh my, (with a surprised tone
in her voice) you are so talented, you truly understand this." I just
about fell over! I KID YOU NOT…this has NEVER happened to MOI! She
then went on to call everyone over to look at the arrangement and
DIDN'T TOUCH a thing!

I leave you with the Fashion column from FORBES magazine…known for
their fashion columns!
It is way beyond price points I would recommend, except I have to get
that Pencil skirt-but the ideas are there!!!
Have a great week!!
Love, P

These days, the economy is forcing even the biggest shopaholics to put
the breaks on spending. And clothing may be one of the first things to
go. Fashion diet? Yes. But it doesn't have to feel like starvation:
Take a leaf out of the French woman's book and learn to shop smart.
Here, five tips from stylish women on how to dress gorgeously and save
money while doing so.
American women love markdowns and tend to shop impulsively. French
women, by contrast, shop with a plan and buy selectively. They only
head to a clothing store when they need a particular item.
Internet entrepreneur Ludovica Pellicioli, who works at the Web
start-up Liquida in Milan, developed her shopping expertise in Paris
where she grew up. "I always approach shopping with a plan in mind,"
she says. "This is what I need, this is what I would like and this is
where I can find it. Shopping is rarely the sole purpose of an
outing."
In Pictures: Eight Essential Items For A Perfect Wardrobe
Pellicioli plans her wardrobe each season by assessing what she
already has in her closet and adding carefully to her collection. For
her winter wardrobe this year she purchased a jacket designed by Rick
Owens. She paid about $2,000, but she wears the jacket several days
each week--sometimes with slacks, sometimes over a dress and to both
daytime and evening events.
Shop Selectively
Comment On This Story
American women have a habit of splurging for items they don't
particularly need. French women avoid splurges by shopping for just a
half-dozen indispensable wardrobe items each year.
French designer Anne Fontaine, known for her white shirts, says that
"besides a beautiful blouse, every woman should have a great pair of
jeans, black pants, a perfect skirt, a perfect little black dress and
a jacket for each season."
Consider this collection of basics a jumping off point--with a few
accessories added in, there are endless outfit possibilities. A little
black dress, for example, can be dressed up with fine jewelry for a
formal event, paired with a jacket for a business dinner or worn with
strappy sandals for a cocktail party.
Assess Every Purchase
French women assess how often they will be able to wear every item
they purchase. Designer Catherine Malandrino advises women to think
carefully about their buys. "French women are not just picking
something because it is in fashion," Malandrino explains. "She gives
more thought to it. How many times can she wear it? Is it versatile
enough to go from day, to work, to cocktails? And will she want to
wear it again and again?"
That sequined jacket may look great on a store rack but most likely it
won't be wearable at the office. A tuxedo blazer, on the other hand,
can be paired with jeans for a casual look or with a satin shift for a
formal evening event.
Born in Grenoble, France, Malandrino learned from her French mother
how to build a distinct wardrobe, buying only comfortable clothes that
were made of high-quality fabrics. "My mother had an Yves Saint
Laurent blouse that she always wore. Year after year, season after
season, it never seemed to age."
Know When to Splurge … and On What
Building a quality wardrobe requires spending more on less and
investing in great accessories. Forking over $800 for a Louis Vuitton
bag or over $5,000 for a Hermès Kelly bag may seem highly extravagant,
but when the cost is amortized over several decades of use, the bag's
price tag may seem more reasonable. Other pricey items, such as
colorful designer silk scarves or a pair of designer pumps, also can
last for years.
"French women prefer quality over quantity," says Fontaine. "This
holds true from our fashion choices to the food and wine we drink.
Quality of life overall is very important in the French lifestyle."
Skip the Trends
Instead of following trends, French women are loyal to the styles and
colors that look best on them. After all, copying what's on the
runways isn't for everyone. French style icons like actress Catherine
Deneuve, known for her black cocktail dresses and trench coats, forge
their own signature styles and stick to them.
Deborah Ricard, who works in public relations for TSE cashmere and
grew up in Versailles, France, says women in France embrace their
individuality. "They will never wear what the magazines and
celebrities tell them to wear. Instead, they choose and wear clothes
[that fit] their personality. It is more about what feels right and
looks good on you. Most of all it has to look effortless."
One of Ricard's biggest pet peeves is seeing women in head-to-toe
designer looks. She advocates creatively mixing and matching different
styles instead.
For her part, Ricard mixes vintage and new pieces, along with
expensive designer items and cheap finds. Malandrino is another
champion of dressing eclectically and enjoys pairing cocktail dresses
with motorcycle jackets and mixing jeans and T-shirts with unique
vintage jewelry or belts. "Women should be their own stylists," she
says.
Little Black Dress
The little black dress is an essential piece in any woman's wardrobe.
Go for the best fit, avoiding any cuts that might be too trendy. There
are a lot of black dress options and you should try on at least a
dozen before deciding what looks best on you.
Whether it's sleeveless, has short sleeves, is straighter or more
full--your black dress should be ultra flattering.
Catherine Malandrino's sleeveless dress, $425, is perfectly versatile
Trench Coat
Soon after it was designed by Thomas Burberry for soldiers to wear
during World War I, the trench coat became a fashion must-have for
women as well as men. Wear it over jeans and instantly transform
yourself into Audrey Hepburn. Wear it over a cocktail dress for a
dressed-down but polished evening look.
Burberry's taffeta wrap trench, $1,195, from the spring 2009
collection is an investment you will wear for years
Black Suit
Everyone needs a great black suit. It also happens to be one of the
hardest items to shop for. Make sure to consider the fit and fabric
when shopping. Also make sure you like the jacket and pants as
separates. There are endless possibilities for wearing a suit
jacket--over a cocktail dress, with jeans or with a colorful skirt.
And everyone needs a great pair of black pants.
Charles Nolan's latest black suit, will take you from the office to dinner.
Cashmere Sweater
Cashmere sweaters like TSE's basic turtleneck, $425, last longer and
look more elegant than merino wool sweaters. Pair with black trousers
for a casual day at work or wear it around your shoulders during a
cocktail event to fight the chill.
Ballet Flats
Heels are great, but let's face it, most of us don't have the pain
tolerance to wear them at work all day, every day. A great pair of
ballet flats can be worn on your way to work and then traded for
heels. They also add an elegant but casual appeal to anything in your
wardrobe.
The iconic French label Repetto's classic ballet flats, $220, have
been worn by style icons from Brigtte Bardot to Sarah Jessica Parker.
Pencil Skirt
The pencil skirt is back in fashion. Pair it with a white blouse for
work, a cashmere sweater in the evening or a T-shirt on the weekend.
French Connection's Checker Play skirt, $39.99, looks great at a great
price point, too.
Black Pumps
If you're going to splurge on one pair of great black pumps, make sure
they're comfortable because you'll wear them with everything.
Christian Louboutin has perfected the black pump with styles like the
Decollete, $575, which instantly transforms the look and feel of an
outfit.
White Blouse
A classic white blouse can work with any outfit, and French designer
Anne Fontaine knows this well. A white blouse can be worn just as
easily on casual Fridays as it can to a black-tie affair with a
taffeta skirt.
Anne Fontaine's Milous blouse, $395, has enough detail to make it a
standout but is classic enough to make it a basic.

BRT

2009-01-21T08:13:00.000-08:00

You know, as in BRAIN REPLACEMENT THERAPY! Jeff thinks I need it! My
Boss wishes I had it and I am very sure my BOYS have signed MOI up for
it! AND WHY isn't it available????? We already have PMS (personal
monitoring systems) that allow spouses to chart our every move. And
how is it this you ask???? BECAUSE they can track all our purchases
online! I am convinced those purchases are even time stamped! It is
such a joy to come home and to be told where I had been and what I had
purchased…leaves little left for conversation!!! If they start
providing itemized info on those charges…I AM DOOMED!!!! AND there is
no grace period…no lag time…just 24/7!!! How did WE allow this to
happen????? Maybe best to go back to paying cash for everything!
Just have to explain those LARGE withdrawals!!

Watching Oprah the other evening with a show featuring HRT (and we ALL
know what that stands for!). Dr. Phil's wife has written a book about
her struggles and symptoms to watch for as one heads into menopause.
Those symptoms sounded very scary…memory loss, no energy to do all the
stuff you don't really want to do..AMEN to all that! Who wants to do
all that stuff anyway!! I am actually happy that I can now blame it
on "M" Factor instead of blaming myself for saying YES once too often!
I didn't follow Oprah's advice from her Just say NO show-but, I am
listening now!!! AND now I am off the hook for my irratic, irrational
and hysterical behavior-it's menopause baby!! One of the virtues of
becoming 50 is that you now become part of the DIVERSITY (i.e.
OUTREACH) demographic! WOO WHO!! Love being OUTREACH! I feel the
POWER! And speaking of power…..

Times are tough all around-of course, tell us something we don't
already know! With 30% of the fiscal year over at work we had our
finance committee meeting to go over everything. I was very excited
about doing this, since I LOVE to be fiscally responsible! Upon
reviewing the goals-MY events during this period exceeded last year's
goals, but fell short of this year's budget! This good news is that I
was able to write grants to cover this shortfall (YEAH!)-However, when
one presents the fiscal reports to the Board-budgets are always open
to interpretation!! I made it VERY clear when the Budget was sent to
the Board for approval, that the fundraising goals had been increased
over the previous year. It was one of my better performances….hoping
to inspire all Board Members to get out there and FUNDRAISE!!!! It's
a Catch 22…if we didn't increase the fundraising goals, the budget
wouldn't be passed! However, at the time…I felt we were all up to the
task! WHO KNEW we would head into these times of financial
difficulty!

But, alas….great minds forget discussion had in the recent past…so
when the finance committee met prior to the Board meeting (lots of
meetings this week!) the chair was not so pleased and pointed out that
I had an "aggressive" approach to fundraising! Now, you can say many
things about MOI, but "aggressive" anything…just doesn't fit! Of
course, I FELT like saying-hey…we are all in this together and I THINK
I spoke up about this several months ago...which you all approved!
However, I just smiled and said that it's true-we have fundraising
goals that are ambitious and I would do my best to meet those goals!!!
I felt it had a better ring to it! What else can you say???
OOPPSSSSS! Hmmmm, I don't think so! No one follows those numbers any
closer than MOI! So…as soon as the meeting was over-I ran into my
office and burst into tears!!! It must be the "M" factor!! Had to
quickly refresh my make-up, since I was heading out to dinner with
High School friends-a reunion of sorts! Drove with dear friend Nora,
and of course blurted out the details of the afternoon! I was still
so upset. It reminded MOI of the times when you had to tell all your
friends how mean so and so had been to you!! You never forget some
things!!

Nora just turned to MOI and said, "P, pull yourself together! You
have a MBA from Kellogg-you can rise above this!! Take that HIGH
ROAD! Tomorrow at the Board meeting, just go in there and defend your
position!" And that is EXACTLY what I did! When the report came up,
I remained calm, cool and collected. No other Board members said a
word! When everything around you is collapsing-dear friends and a
nice glass of VINO will always save you!

And speaking of VINO….a NEW study on Living Longer reported that one
can live longer consuming up to 15 glasses of VINO a week! WOO
WHOOOOO that is 2 glasses a day..over 730 glasses a YEAR! HOWEVER, if
you go to 4 glasses you are in BIG TROUBLE! NO KIDDING! You probably
can't MOVE! The study also found that people who volunteer live
longer! Are YOU Kidding MOI! Vino and Volunteering-the KEY to
longevity! This could be the new marketing pitch-the way to raise
funds! Entice folks to volunteer at the Art Center and serve them
VINO! It could be part of our "Living Longer through the Arts
Campaign!"

I know that I have "arrived" at the Art Center (it has only taken a
year!!). Our most famous faculty member stopped MOI in the hallway
the other day. She wanted to "discuss" something with MOI-of course,
I was bracing for the worst! Most faculty ask MOI to write grants for
special programs that they will teach…I have to reply that it doesn't
work that way…we write grants for certain things and then fit the
faculty to the program…I was most intrigued and as the same time
apprehensive….one false step and it could be curtains for MOI! She
has a large following and one can't afford to alienate any group! She
started out with a compliment on all my outreach "partnering" efforts.
WE ALL KNOW WHAT IS COMING NEXT…..I am on the Board of this
organization and they would like to hold an event with the Art
Center…I just smiled….We can make this happen! You have to know when
to say YES!

Patsy had given MOI a lovely garnet circle pin from my grandmother.
She said that I had admired it as a child. Experiencing memory loss
these days….I didn't remember the pin, but it is lovely and a family
heirloom…something to pass on to future generations!! The lovely pin
needed some refreshing as a few stones were missing and it needed to
be returned to its former glamour! I picked it up from the Jeweler and
was discussing the story with him. He sells beautiful antique
jewelry, so an authority of sorts! I was inquiring how I would wear
it and he said that it is perfect with pearls. He pulled out several
lovely strands..NO, I did not buy any pearls-tempting as it may be!
He continued to say that this style of pin is HIGHLY collectible….I
felt like I was on Antique Roadshow! "Really??" It's from the
1890's… "REALLY???" I had no idea! I just smiled and said, "it's a
family heirloom and NOT FOR SALE!"

It's rough here in the Windy City-we are having one of THOSE
winters….Tons of snow and freezing temperatures with several days
clocking 25 below zero wind chill factor! Although, let's be
honest…anything below 20 degrees is just plain COLD! The other
morning, I had the refrigerator door open and I thought-perhaps I
should keep it open to warm things up a bit!

Last Call starts at Neiman's on TUESDAY!!!!! GO! Put Kohl's on your
spring shopping list! Simply Vera line has some adorable skirts!
Several articles recommend looking at CLAIRE'S for great
jewelry-always!! For an "of the moment" update to your wardrobe-head
over to Urban Outfitter www.urbanoutfitters.com, click on accessories
and buy this adorable Mesh lace necklace for $78. It is large-but not
overwhelming!!! Also, keep those cuffs ready to go! This time try to
see if you can wear two or three of them up your arm (I know – this
may not be so simple!!). and My FAVORITE!
www.yummietummie.com Their tops cling, yet covers those bulges! FABULOUS!

Have a great week!!
Love, P

“I guess we had a failure to COMMUNICATE….”

2009-01-13T08:20:00.000-08:00

Things were going along as best as can be expected! It is nice to
have time off during the holidays…but, let's be honest…one really
doesn't get time off, since life marches on. You only get a chance to
take a "break!" My "Holiday" started with yours truly, spending
several hours picking up artwork at the FedEx Corporate facility. Any
self-respecting Mom is on a first name basis with the lovely folks at
the FedEx facility in Northbrook, since they are open until 9:00 p.m.
for pick up and sending. But, now life is a bit easier for all of us
because you can go to Kinkos to do that last minute mailing of all
those important items that your children have left at home and need
IMMEDIATELY. In fact, I felt very much "in the know" on Saturday,
when I was sending Jeffrey a few items that he had "left." Naturally,
he called MOI after the post office had closed, so headed to Kinkos
and was busy preparing my box, when I overheard a woman discussing her
FedEx needs with the nice fellow behind the counter (note to dear
readers, this was a different fellow than the one that I had the
experience with last fall!!!). She was sending several boxes to her
daughter (must be a freshman, since she didn't know the drill). Lots
of large ZAPPOS boxes (love this!) filled with items that didn't fit
in her suitcase. The shipping ended up costing $150, not bad I
thought for 5 large boxes!!! The mother just about had a heart
attack. Then she started with the…I will repack the boxes myself…etc.
I just smiled as I completed my forms. The young man behind the desk
said that she could, but once you get over a certain
weight..blah..blah..blah..it truly doesn't make any difference! I
took my place in line and hoped that she would SURRENDER quickly
because it was really snowing outside and I still had lots of errands
to do!!

Where was I???? FedEx o.k., so, the day before vacation, the
exhibition curator calls to see if the artwork from one of the artists
has arrived by FedEx. This is on Friday. The curator said the artist
sent it from New York on Monday. Hmmm….I didn't see it, but told her
I would look for it and call her back ASAP. I asked what size –
4 ft. x 6 ft. Hmmmm…that should be easy to spot!! Went searching in
the usual places and NO SIGN of a large box. Called back the curator
and asked her to get the tracking number and I would take it from
there. Did I mention that it was SNOWING….and I think the airports
were closed-didn't look promising. She called back with the tracking
number and then the information that the package was sent on Wednesday
for guaranteed arrival by Christmas (this is December 19th). O.K.
Well, let's see…Wednesday is not Monday and we were closing on the
19th for two weeks and wouldn't be here to receive it after Friday. I
would say a Failure to Communicate! Hmmmmmm…went online to track the
package and found it had arrived at 6 am that morning! HOORAY! At
least it was in Chicago!! Reported the info back the curator. Then
she wanted to know how late we would be working on Friday…O.K. Did I
mention it was snowing…it had snowed about 8-10 inches, so several
employees hadn't made it into work, because their cars were snowed in.
Not that I would EVER leave early, but it was a holiday vacation
coming up….I told her I would stay until 5 p.m. She seemed happy
about this. And here's the thing-she is one of the nicest people, so
I really couldn't get all bent out of shape about it….but, as the day
went by….and no artwork…..I had to go to plan B-Decided around 3 p.m.
to call FedEx to see what my options would be if the artwork arrived
on Monday or if I could pick it up! Chatted with a nice fellow who
told MOI that I could pick it up on Monday at the Commercial location
in Wheeling. He would tell them to hold it there for MOI! I
thought-thank goodness-a plan B! Called back the curator and told her
that I would pick it up on Monday. I wasn't sure where the place was
located, but I had the general idea. I thought this is easier than
waiting for it to arrive! She thought that would be fabulous! She
didn't offer to pick it up…but, as I have said-she is a lovely person
and very hard working…one does what one has to do!!

Did I mention that it continued to snow all weekend?? So all my plans
of getting errands completed and ready to go away for Christmas were
way behind schedule! On Monday, the curator kept calling in the a.m.
to see if I had picked up. Now, you can imagine how my day OFF was
going…already running late, snow, freezing and having to drive to the
Commercial location which was a 30 minute drive on a good day! I took
a deep breath and remembered to take the HIGH ROAD (always) and found
the location. A bit tricky trying to figure out how to enter the
location. Turns out it is a very SECURE location. You park and then
have to enter a small building for "security clearance" before you can
enter the main building. All this and I still wasn't completely sure
they even had the artwork!! Arrived at the small building-didn't
realize I would have to take off all my outer layers…(similar to the
airport!). Relieved that I was given the O.K. and then headed out to
the next building. Walked into an office building and there was just
a big empty room, with little cubicles off to one side.
HELLOOOOOOO???? "I'm here to pick up a package??!!" Fortunately, a
nice woman popped up and said that she could help MOI! (Note to self,
remember to make more noise when I return in the future (you all know
that this is going to happen again!!!!) I explain my situation (by
now another ½ hour has gone by!!!!) and then she tells MOI to have a
seat while I am waiting. Are you kidding MOI-just get me the @$!$%@^
package and let me out of here!! I know she is trying to be nice,
but I really needed to be moving along! I chose to stand while I
waited, so I had the opportunity to look into her cubicle. She had
some cute pictures of her kids and this being the Holiday Season, I
told her that her kid's pictures were adorable….She flashed a big
smile and said that they were her grandchildren. Then a discussion of
how young she looked…..FINALLY, the package arrived! It was rather
large and I hoped it wasn't heavy because I would be the one lugging
it into the car and then into the art center. I gave the woman my
business card, since it was not addressed to moi-she smiled and said
that she was going to give MOI a call because she was interested in
taking art classes in the spring!

Spent this week preparing for the big opening of the exhibition today.
Artwork all arrived and several artists installed their own work. I
had told the curator last fall, that I had managed to rent out the Art
Center for an event that would be held during the exhibition. She had
assured MOI that all the installations would be on the wall, so it
wouldn't be a problem. I was very excited about the rental, since it
would be a new source of income for the Art Center!! One has to be
"creative" during "these times!!" Fortunately for MOI, I have already
lived through several of "these times"…so I Know this drill!!! Truly
a benefit of being old!! I just wish I knew everything, because that
would make things so much easier! I happened to be walking by one of
the galleries as an artist was installing her work. I noticed that
she was putting "text" (FYI- very popular these days!) on the floor
with yarn. AND it was taking up most of the floor space in the
gallery. I just looked at the curator and said, "I have a rental for
this room and they will need to WALK in this space." The curator said
that she knew but, "I guess there was a COMMUNICATION
misunderstanding." Between WHOM????
Fear not dear readers…I have figured out a plan that will make all
parties happy. I may have to rethink my "rental" program going
forward!!!!

Watching Oprah and Suzy this week on "New Life" week or something like
that-I was not so inspired. Suzy suggests that to save money, you
should just stay home and NOT spend money. I wonder if I should send
her that article so she can do her own Pedicure! I did try to stay
home the other evening and not spend any money. It actually was fun!
I spent it researching shoe websites!! Found one, www.footcandy.com
to be quite fabulous!! Also, Payless provided some great buys for
spring! Check out the new Lela Rose line at Payless! The Palmetto
Peep Wedge and the Marigold Satin Flat features " a beautiful satin
upper with contrasting piping and an elegant D'Orsay silhouette."
This may be the closest I get to a D'Orsay anything!! Also, the
Analucia Halter Tote of "quality" canvas and glossy patent, and a
woven rope panel detail. It is very cute! Each under $30 – how can
you go wrong??!!

And here are a few tips to "rework" your wardrobe! A popular theme
right now! Again, similar to last week's searching for all those
fabulous Valentino ensembles that you have hidden in the back corners
of your closet!!! Take your Black Blazer and wear it over
EVERYTHING!! Make sure it is hip length, so it can go over
everything!! One suggestion is to put it over your evening frock (not
so sure on that one-would really depend on the frock!). But, it looks
very nice belted over a skirt and top, or pants and top. Also try
pushing up your sleeves to make it look "fresh!" And if you don't
have the fabulous blazer or your blazer isn't so fabulous-Head over to
Club Monaco!! Their "Manhattan Tex" wool blazer is very nice and will
do the trick! It might even be on sale!!! Also, check out Zara-they
are a great source for something like this!

Next find that Skinny Belt – Kohls and Tarjay have a nice selection!
See if you can find one in faux leather python! You can wear it with
a shift, over a cardigan (make sure it isn't too think-don't want that
"sausage look"), or with your jacket from above!! AND wear your
favorite white shirt under these looks! Don't have one-try the
Gap-They have a great one for $39.50!!! You can wear it over a tank
top or untucked under a sweater (makes it easy, since they always
become untucked anyway! Who knew you were already so chic!) Also try
to mix up day and night. If you pair tailored looks with pieces made
from evening fabrics-it looks very NEW! Try that white shirt with a
lace skirt and boots! VOILA-you are good to go!!!

Have a great week and try to stay home and out of the stores!!! HA HA HA!
XO,
P

Shopping for those Less Fortunate…

2008-12-15T13:38:00.000-08:00

It always happens this time of year-signing up for sponsoring families at various nonprofits always seems like a great idea in OCTOBER…but, then December rolls around and there you are….the items are due on Monday!! Decided to sponsor different things for different families at various groups…again…seemed like a good idea AT THE TIME! Toys for one family, Books for another, Clothes for another and Food for another…Who can say no to an email-just click yes! I think I did less of this when I had to call people or ask at a meeting! It could also be that I feel guilty that I don't have the TIME to give to these organizations like I used to-so just signed on to help! There I was at 8:00 a.m. the other morning, in front of TarJay Desperate to get it-(It should be a commercial – woman pacing with lists in hand….can't wait to get into TarJAY!) I had an hour before I had to get to work-so it was Power Shopping to the Max!!!! Toys, who knew so many different Barbies…..started to ponder each one and OMGosh! All the accessories!! Time was wasting…I felt like I was on one of those TV shows where they give you 15 minutes to get everything you want at Toys R Us or someplace-I think Oprah does this?? I wish it was Neimans!!! Then headed over to the boys aisle! Brought back some memories!!! Everyone in the family needed coats-clothing! Lots of sizes to figure our and one group had very specific needs…OOPPPPSSSS the clothes are sized S M L…what does a three year old wear???? This is not so easy..OOPPSSSS somehow lost one of those lists…GOOD GRIEF…where is it??? Stop..do not pass GO…Lose one turn! Spent a few moments looking for the list, but decided…the family would be happy with anything! Another family needed a microwave…OMG..haven't purchased one of those in years!!! Headed over to Appliances and found one for $100!! Microwaves are still big and heavy! Not so many folks to help you at TarJay like Neimans!!

HMMMMMM….maybe I should get one for myself!! But, NO saving myself for the Shoe Dept.!!!

Headed over to the shoes and VOILA! The Sigerson Morrison Silver pointy toed heels with Jewel detail were ON SALE!! OMG! $31 a pair! Into the cart!! Are there more???? And some very cute booties by Mossimo!!!! Then over to see the IN STORE selection of Anya Hindmarch handbags! Bought all of them!! SO GORGEOUS!! Just a note-several say Anya Hindmarch for TarJay-but, the print is small (and at our age, who can read it without glasses??) and the bag is so cute! GO FOR IT!!! Plus, it has a bit of "being responsible in these difficult economic times" feel about it!! By now, it was 8:52 a.m. Headed to check out!! Even the check out clerk liked my bags!! We had a lovely little chat about them!! Swiped that Visa and out the door in One Hour! Of course, then had to sort out what went where-but, it does make one feel that they are making a difference for some! Wish I could play Barbies with that little girl!!!!

Of course, so glad to help others and realizing that I haven't done anything for those I love!! Thank goodness for FedEx!!!!

Dear friend, Mimi has a request if anyone is a 'member" of Rue La La-an online shopping website that you have be invited to join! LMK and we can all join!!!!!!
Today was the last day of our Winter Sale! So glad to have my weekends back again!! I am so behind on all my SPA appointments! MAINTENANCE is always a No. 1 priority!!!!
Hope you all are enjoying this holiday season! It is so special and goes by so quickly!!!!
I have included some treats for all of you!!!

Enjoy!!

Going to take a few weeks off! Heading to Jeff's Mom for the Christmas Holiday! Will be back writing again in the New Year on January 4th!!!
Merry Merry!
Love, P

Costume Jewels at www.neimanmarcus.com
Click on Costume Jewelry-Stephen Dweck shows some FAB rings! But, lots of bling for not so many $$$$!! We could all be happy!

And Jeff sends this NYTimes link for street fashion!! Love, Love, Love the coats and MUST HAVE those Burberry gloves!!!!!!

Street Fashion

And a little something for the gardeners! Love those orchids!! CostCo had tons last weekend!!!!

Expert advice from Chicago growers gets your plant reblooming

By Nina A. Koziol | Special to the Tribune
December 14, 2008

Pondering a few red poinsettias to deck your halls this month? Sure, those big, beefy, look-at-me plants are the holiday workhorses of the horticultural world. But if you're looking for something a little different, even exotic, you might find yourself buying an orchid.

"There's something very mysterious about them," says Jim Sandrik of Park Ridge. "Maybe it's their beauty or maybe it's knowing that they're a challenge."

But if you've chosen an orchid to glam up the living room—or were the lucky recipient of an orchid gift—only to find yourself frustrated when your new plant refused to ever bloom again, take heart: The mystery of orchids, and the skills it takes to keep them blooming, are easy to unlock with a little expert advice.

Sandrik coddles a collection of 100 orchids, some that are nearly 30 years old, in a small spare bedroom equipped with special lights and fans. And, he spends an hour or two each Sunday watering and feeding all of them. But you don't need plant lights or a conservatory or a big block of time to keep an orchid or two healthy and happy enough to bloom more than once.

"The phalaenopsis orchid is one of the easiest to grow," says Adam Hausermann of Orchids by Hausermann, a specialty greenhouse in Villa Park. Also known as the "moth" orchid, phalaenopsis is one of the longest bloomers, sometimes flowering for two months or more. It can bloom two to three times a year under the right conditions.

Potted orchids have become so popular that they can be found in the floral section of local food stores and big-box stores, as well as garden centers and florists. Expect to pay anywhere from $12 to $40 or more depending on the size and variety of plant.

"Orchids are a great hobby," Hausermann says. "It's such a large plant family, there's something for everyone." Their names—cattleya, dendrobium, paphiopedilum, cymbidium—are tongue-twisters, to be sure. The flowers range from dangling spidery little blossoms to long stems of large waxy blooms. And some, like oncidium orchids, have delicate flowers that smell like chocolate or spice. Perhaps the best known are the cattleyas, the large flowers used as corsages, and the dendrobiums, used in the Hawaiian lei.

Here are some tips for helping your orchid through the winter and into another year of bloom:
Light: Different orchids have different cultural requirements, but in general, an east-, south- or west-facing window unobstructed by trees, drapes or curtains, with the pot out of direct sunlight, is a good start.

Watering: The fastest way to kill an orchid is to let it sit in a saucer of water. Better to take the plant to the sink once a week, give it a thorough soak until water runs out the bottom and then place it on the saucer.

Feeding: For one or two plants, Sandrik says, "purchase the smallest size water-soluble orchid fertilizer available and mix 1/4 teaspoon in a gallon of water, making sure it dissolves. Pour half of it into each plant when watering."

Temperature: Orchids tend to like daytime temps that range from about 65 to 75 degrees and evening temperatures from 55 to 65.
Humidity: Orchids prefer humidity in the 40 percent to 60 percent range. A furnace or room humidifier can help as well as placing the pots on saucers that sit over a bed of wet gravel.

Flowering stems: After it has flowered the first time, cut a phalaenopsis stem about half the way down just above a node (looks like a slight bulge). From this node a new flower stem should emerge and flower in about 120 days.

Things that bust their blooms: The air is too hot, especially at night. The soil is too dry or too wet. The plant is getting too much or too little light. Don't repot the plant while it has buds or blooms. Wait until it is done flowering and then repot in about the same size pot using special orchid mix from the garden center.

Yellow leaves: It's natural to have a few yellow older leaves at the base of the plant. If the newer leaves are turning yellow, it may indicate too much or too little water.

And found this FAB Truffle Bars recipe! Made it for the work folks and they were very happy!!!
YUM!!!

Truffle Bar Base
unsalted butter
8 oz (2 sticks)
unsweetened baking chocolate, chopped
7 oz (7 squares)
granulated sugar
2 cups
large eggs
4
all purpose flour, not sifted
1 cup
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
walnuts, chopped
1 cup

Preheat the oven to 350_F.
Lightly spray a 9" x 13" cake pan with some pan spray. Set aside.
Place the butter in a heavy saucepan.
Melt the butter over low heat.
Remove the pan from the heat.
Add the unsweetened chocolate to the melted butter, stirring constantly with a wooden or nylon spoon until the chocolate is completely melted. Add the sugar and stir to completely combine.
Add the eggs, one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition to thoroughly combine the egg into the batter.
Add the flour and stir to combine.
Add the Vanilla extract and walnuts.
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes only. The brownie may still look soft and shiny. Care must be taken not to over bake the base or it will end up being dry and crumbly.
Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack.
Cool completely.

Truffle Topping
Dark Chocolate Bars (2 oz each)
4 each
heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup
light corn syrup
1 Tablespoon
unsalted butter, softened
1 Tablespoon

Chop the chocolate and place in a stainless steel or glass bowl.
Place one inch of water in a small heavy saucepan.
Place the saucepan on the stove and bring the water to a simmer.
Remove the saucepan from the stove.
Place the bowl containing the chopped chocolate on top of the pan of simmering water.
Stir the chocolate until it is completely melted.
Remove the bowl from the top of the pan and dump the water out.
Place the cream and light corn syrup into the sauce pan and bring to a boil.
Pour the hot liquid over the melted chocolate.
Whisk the hot liquid and the chocolate together to completely combine.
Set the chocolate mixture aside and allow the Ganache to cool for five minutes.
Whisk the softened butter into the chocolate mixture.
Allow the Ganache to cool to room temperature. The mixture will be a thick, custard-like consistency.
Whisk the Ganache just until it begins to lighten in color slightly.
Spread the whipped Ganache evenly over the brownie base.
If desired, cover the top of the bars with shaved dark chocolate.
Allow the bars to sit at room temperature until the Ganache firms up.
Dust lightly with cocoa powder.
Cut into 1 1/2 inch squares.
Store the finished bars in an airtight container to prevent from drying out.
These have a better eating quality if eaten at room temperature.
Yield: approximately 6 dozen squares

ENJOY!

And last but not least!
This is simply DIVINE!!

French Pear Martini
Mix together:
1.5 oz dry white wine
1.5 oz Grey Goose La Poire (YUM!)

Top with Champagne
Sugar to rim glass!
Cheers!!

Fallen Off the BEAUTY Wagon!

2008-12-01T15:14:00.000-08:00

How did this happen??? I was doing so well…taking MY OWN ADVICE and trying all these beauty products…I am on a First Name basis with the CVS and Walgreen beauty counter specialists (that's what their name card said!). Also using Arbonne products, which are FAB! And everything I used was working wonders…But, alas….all the creams in the world can only DO SO MUCH! Age does take its toll! Going nonstop for several weeks on end…can even do MOI in! Running from work to try to manage all the impending volunteer commitments leaves one little time for rest! Setting up for the Thrift House holiday opening last Sunday, following the Art Center's Holiday opening last Friday, caused concern from a fellow Thrift House volunteer. She turned to MOI as we were fighting over a Prada dress (we both wear the same size) and said that she had NEVER seen MOI looking so fatigued, including BAGS under my eyes (of course, they are ALWAYS there, I do an AMAZING job of concealing them!!). MON DIEU! What is a woman to do??! HEAD RIGHT OUT AND BUY MORE PRODUCT!!!! I did try to get more sleep on one day last week! But, preparing for the Thanksgiving feast always calls for a LATE NIGHT on Wednesday or is that an early a.m. on Thanksgiving??!! So looking forward to relaxing over the weekend….only to discover that I had to work all weekend!!

Not PLANNING to work all weekend-if I had KNOWN that I had to work all weekend, I would have SAID SOMETHING! But then that's the CODE! We all know the CODE..that is Don't tell your Mother or Don't tell your Father or in this case, Don't tell PAULA! With a successful opening of our Winter Arts and Crafts Expo, I had said that I would work the Friday after Thanksgiving, since the Art Center is normally closed! ANYTHING for a sale!! That retail spirit returns!! The Art Center was only closed for Thanksgiving and the Friday, so I ASSUMED that I would really only have to work on Friday, since the weekend staff would take over on Saturday and Sunday! Just one little problemo….the regular weekend staff receptionist was off for the holiday and the NEW receptionist would be there for the entire weekend…FUNNY, how that LKF (little known fact), somehow didn't get mentioned to MOI-Another CODE!!

Things were going well on Friday, I arrived opened up, the NEW receptionist arrived to work the register, which is a computerized affair. The only thing I hadn't counted on was that the NEW Receptionist thought she was there to help MOI as back-up! MON DIEU! We both had a "moment" when we realized that each of us thought we were doing the other's job!!! She said that she would need me there as back-up for the ENTIRE weekend!! Now granted, we were only open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and noon-4 p.m on Sunday…but still….when is one to prepare for the Holidays??!! Those outdoor containers take time to make!! Not to mention everything else! But hey, that's what the paycheck is for!! I mentally went down the list of everything I could push off to next week, and we were good to go!! We actually were busy, so it worked out well that I was there! Since I was check out back up, I was chief wrapper! It made me a bit nervous wrapping all these lovely glass and ceramic pieces….but, I did my best and focused on the task at hand! A few errors with the Credit Card machine were solved by MOI! Those years of Retail come in handy!!! I decided to add a "festive" air to the event and donned several different Christmas Tree Skirts over the weekend! They were made of fleece and not only festive, but warm!!!! They are actually quite versatile…first as a shawl and later in the day as an actual skirt! Who knows, it may be the next big hit on the runways!! If the "poodle skirt" ever comes back!! I will be prepared!

Having so many hours to spend and not able to actually go to my office to do work, I decided to SHOP the Expo. There are some very chic fiber accessories! This woman is not only an artist, but a fashionista!! I LOVE THIS! She has made this scarf like thing out of very cool yarns and it looks like a necklace…I know I am not describing it very well, but when you put it on-it looks very FAB! She also makes a scarf for your winter coat which is like a "Dickie." Again, very cool! It just fits around your neck and doesn't add any bulk…what's not to like!! Some terrific jewelry too! Love the bracelets and rings!! Not too many cuff's-maybe they are hard to make?? Fabulous antique beaded necklaces and a selection of Ikebana containers…I am good to go! AND to top it all off, very fun notecards!! Truly, I can save the time that I would spend at the shopping malls buying presents and buy everything at the Art Center! But, here's the thing….most of the folks that I buy presents for-LOVE to get those gift cards and I can get those at the grocery store!!! Soooooo, I guess I am shopping for MOI!

Dear Friend, Roxanne Boerke shares these wonderful tips!
She is taking Flower Arranging classes at New Trier extension from Michael (Chicago School of Flower Design). These classes include Hand Tied Bouquets! Who knew-right here in our own back yard!! They look wonderful!!! http://www.newtrier.k12.il.us
Floral design is under arts and crafts in the catalog!

And here is Roxanne's info on Discounts while shopping on line!!
You asked how to get a discount while shopping on line. google search ie, "macys.com coupons". (website address -space- coupons) i am amazed at the discounts i can find. they are not always available and it may take some searching through what google lists or trying the coupon on the check out page (usually a box titled promotion code or coupon). it is so satisfying when they work! i found myself doing a lot of this when i had 2 babies at home. also, be sure to check out your favorite sites on cyber monday, there should be plenty of discounts out there.

there are also coupon websites where you can enter your store and a coupon may pop up. some of those are: Savings.com, Shoppersresource.com, Couponwinner.com, Promotionalcode.com, and Webcouponcodes.com.
Thank you Roxanne!! This is information we can all use!!!!

You can also join online Sample Sale sites:
www.Gilt.com
www.Hautelook.com
www.Ideeli.com
and www.shopstyle.com lets you do a really refined search and has a ton of great stores in it's network!

And for all your HOLIDAY Glamour! Buy a clutch! So many to choose from and at so many price points!!! Anyone will do! Check out Forever 21!!!! www.sondraroberts.com has great clutches too!
Check out Simply Vera at Kohl's-she does a nice job with satin items and a Faux Fur silver cropped coat is FAB!!!!

As we all know-keep the bling to a one focal point-bracelets, necklace or fab earrings…but, don't wear them all together! This website has some great bracelets and earrings!!! And love the price point!!
http://www.richrocksnyc.com/index.html

Will try to find the perfect holiday cookie recipe for next week or send MOI your favorite!!
Let the Holiday's begin!!
XO,
P

Hand Tied Bouquets!

2008-11-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

What a week, not one, but TWO floral arranging seminars featuring Hand Tied Bouquets!! And then on the news, a segment on the School of Floral Design….Does it truly get any better than this??!! Paula Pryke of London Fame, breezed into town to give an unbelievable 2+ hour demonstration on all her techniques of flower arranging. She started with variations on Hand Tied Bouquets making it look easier than making lanyards!!! I know that when I was a camp counselor, I did know how to make a lanyard, but I do believe I struggled with that. AND here was Paula, just throwing these incredible bouquets together that were GINORMOUS…I was sitting in the back, so I couldn't see the size of her hand, but they looked fairly normal sized..so I was in total awe and amazement as she whipped these flowers into visions of loveliness and all in the palm of her hand. She said that it was easy to do with a bit of practice. However, MOI knows better!! Ikebana looks easy too…..but, you just try finding the right branch!

So, it was with continued amazement that I attended my Ikebana International meeting today to view yet another demonstration of Hand Tied Bouquets. Our guest demonstrator was a faculty member from the American School of Flower Arranging (yes, we are stealing from the Brits!). He made a large array of Hand Tie Bouquet arrangements and each one was a bit different. He made small ones and attached them to a wreath. He made large ones in clear vases that he covered with this wire mesh wrapping material that you can get a Michaels…He used colored wire to create a kenzan in a clear vase and then put the Hand Tied Bouquet in that. Tied it up with a wire bow from CostCo! He also used these little cubes that you soak in water and then put them in a clear vase. You add cranberries and they sort of float in the clear cubes (think gelatin) and then here is the best thing…you can buy these little votive lights called, eco-lights, that can be turned on and SUBMERGED in the jello-cranberry mixture. I mean TRULY…does it get any better than this??!! Paula also had some tricks up her sleeve using CROTON leaves on outside of a clear vase and tied it with wire. She said they would last up to 4 days. CROTON leaves have great color, so you can use them for many occasions! You can fill the vases with a variety of flowers-very FESTIVE!!!

It was such good fortune to see two excellent demonstrations in less than four days knowing that I will probably never be able to master this type of flower arranging!!! I did speak to the fellow from the American School of Flower Arranging and asked if I could just take a class in Hand Tied Bouquets and he said YES! So stay tuned Chi-town readers and I will let you know when the next class is being held!! Well worth it!!!!!

Of course, attending the Ikebana meeting always brings with it memories of living in Japan and trying to keep a part of that experience alive in my current life! NOT SO SIMPLE!! The meeting was in a suburb, an hour from home, so that means two hours of driving time. Of course, I truly couldn't believe that it was really an hour away, so I left late, but arrived just in time for LUNCH! I had to take the last open seat, which meant that I didn't get to sit by dear friend, Janet Knowlton, who is living in the Chicago area. We were friends in Tokyo and also at Ikebana International. She went on to live all over the world, but has now landed in Chi-Town. (I am sure the highlight of all her destinations!!) It is fun to see her after 15 years! The demonstration and meeting lasted 4 hours, so Janet and I waved to each other. You know, this WAS my life in Tokyo, when you felt like you had accomplished something if you did ONE thing a day…But, this is my current life and I need to do 15 things a day… the people in the group are lovely…but, Janet and I both looked at each other and said..THIS IS SO NOT FITTING WITH OUR LIVES!!!!
It is the love of Ikebana that brings people together, but trying to make it a part of your life is something else!

And doesn't that seem the mantra lately…THIS IS SO NOT FITTING WITH OUR LIVES!! It usually appears during the beginning of the holiday season! You have all these things that you need to do and hope that people will help you and they are in the same boat and decide to bail on you!! The funny thing is that, what you had signed up to do is still there!! YIKES!! I can usually handle my own volunteer commitments, but this season, it seems more than ever, the need is greater. Perhaps it is the economy, maybe it is an excuse for some. I am not sure, but I must be on the speed dial of those groups that need help, since the phone keeps ringing!!! But, that is what all-nighters are for!!! I love it when the young people come to work looking like they pulled an all-nighter…and guess what they did!! I tell them that I can RELATE!!!!

Attended a Fashion seminar on "Your Image in times of FLUX!" It wasn't for the Fashion Forward, but still some great ideas to share:

1. Hone your people skills, conversational arts and emotional intelligence. What is that?? This was a term I wasn't that familiar with, but in times of FLUX it is important to know what to think! Here's a definition from Wikipedia and if this isn't clear, click on the link for an entire discourse and see if it is any clearer!!!!

Emotional Intelligence (EI), often measured as an Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EQ), describes an ability, capacity, skill or (in the case of the trait EI model) a self-perceived ability, to identify, assess, and manage the emotions of one's self, of others, and of groups. It is a relatively new area of psychological research. The definition of EI is constantly changing.

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

Shop SALES!! (Tell us something WE don't know!)
Use coupon websites: www.ebates.com, www.wow-coupons.com (you can let MOI know about these)
Expand your global network, internally and externally-Facebook here we come!
Add Accessories!

And advice for the Fashion Forward! Buy a Capelet!
They are everywhere in all price points (try to buy one on SALE)! They are cable knit and faux-fur trimmed (what I bought-bien sur!). It looks best with a pencil skirt or jeans. And be sure to wear Pointy-toed shoes!!!!!

In case you missed last week's lipstick fest in the NYTimes-here you go!!

By ELLEN TIEN
Published: November 7, 2008

As the economy crumbles, the Lipstick Index — that frivolous financial barometer that says cosmetics sales rise in direct relation to free-falling finances — has jumped. Sales in the last few months are up 40 percent. Here are 41 of fall's most popular pick-me-ups, from $1.99 to over $50. What do women want when they aren't allowed to want too much? Traditional lipsticks in more-sheer neutral shades; the bright reds of days gone by have been replaced by pinky browns and rosy taupes.

Top row, from left to right:

1. Benefit Full-Finish lipstick in Ladies' Choice, $18 at benefitcosmetics.com.

2. Sisley Hydrating long-lasting lipstick No. L17, $55 at Neiman Marcus stores.

3. Vincent Longo Lipstain SPF lipstick in Americana, $23 at vincentlongo.com.

4. Pur Minerals lipstick in Raspberry Quartz, $15 at Ulta stores.

5. Shiseido Perfecting lipstick in P13, $22.50 at sephora.com.

6. Mark Dew Drenched Moisturlicious lip color in Pretty Posey, $6 at meetmark.com.

7. Jane Iredale PureMoist LipColour in Melisa, $19 at Vert in Los Angeles, (310) 581-6126.

8. Josie Maran lipstick in Rumi Joon, $20 at barneys.com.

9. MAC lipstick in Viva Glam VI, $14 at maccosmetics.com.

10. Clinique Long Last Soft Shine lipstick in Bamboo Pink, $14 at clinique .com.

11. Avon Beyond Color Plumping lip color in Divine Wine, $8 at avon .com.

12. Dior Addict High Shine lipstick in Casual Beige, $25 at Bloomingdale's stores.

13. Mally Beauty lipstick in Zooey Doll, $15 at henribendel.com.

14. Origins Smileage Plus Organic Liptint in Vintage, $11 at origins.com.

15. Nars lipstick in Dolce Vita, $24 at narscosmetics.com.

16. Sally Hansen Natural Beauty in Plum Shimmer, $9.99 at Duane Reade stores.

17. Shu Uemura Rouge Unlimited Crème Matte lipstick in Red 165M, $23 at shuuemura-usa.com.

18. DuWop Prime Venom nude lip plumping balm and primer, $20 at Sephora.

19. Michael Marcus lipstick in Jenifer, $24 at michaelmarcus.com.

20. N.Y.C. New York Color Ultra Last LipWear in Brandy Sparkle, $1.99 at Wal-Mart stores.

21. Sue Devitt lipstick in Zimbabwe, $20 at Barneys New York.

Bottom row, from left to right:

22. Bobbi Brown lip color in Brown, $22 at bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

23. By Terry Rouge Delectation lipstick in Icy Praline, $41 at Barneys New York stores.

24. Jouer Lip Color in Phoebe, $22 at Henri Bendel in New York, (800) 423-6335.

25. Rimmel Lasting Finish lipstick in Coffee Shimmer, $4.95 at CVS stores.

26. Ramy lipstick in Ramy Red, $17 at ramybeautytherapy.com.

27. Estée Lauder Signature Hudra Lustre lip at bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

28. Chanel Rouge Hydrabase in Enigma $27 at chanel.com.

29. Chanel Rouge Allure in Naïve, $30 at chanel.com.

30. Calvin Klein Delicious Luxury Crème lipstick in Oasis, $18 at sephora.com.

31. Trish McEvoy sheer lipstick in Innocent Sheer, $22 at Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

32. YSL Beauté Rouge Volupté lipstick in Sweet Honey, $29 at Henri Bendel in New York, (800) 423-6335.

33. Smashbox Photo Finish lipstick in Delightful, $22 at Sephora stores.

34. Rilastil Long Lasting Color Fix in Tender Rose, $28 at C. O. Bigelow in New York, (212) 533-2700.

35. Laura Mercier lip color in Pink Champagne, $22 at lauramercier.com.

36. Paul & Joe Lipstick N in No. 17, $20 at thebeautycloset.com.

37. TheBalm Read My Lips lipstick in Letter to the Editor, $16 at C. O. Bigelow in New York (212) 533-2700.

38. Lipstick Queen by Poppy King sheer lip color in Medieval, $20 at Barneys New York stores.

39. Kat Von D Painted Love lipstick in Lolita, $18 at sephora.com.

40. Korres Mango Butter SPF 10 in Nude 33, $18 at sephora.com.

41. BeingTRUE translucent lip color in Protagonist, $22 at truelynatural.com.

Have a great week!!
Love, P

And here are some holiday recipes from friend, Louise Davis!
Go to this website!
YUM!!
http://www.northpole.com/Kitchen/Cookbook/rec0741.html

"“Raise Your Hand if….."

2008-11-06T04:31:00.000-08:00

There I was at the Association for Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Midwest conference, EAGER to hear this speakers thoughts on starting your own Planned Giving program…almost as exciting as those banking days!! I truly can't get over how so many things are transferable!! The plans, processes, marketing….all similar between profit and nonprofit. I think the only difference is that the nonprofit world doesn't think they are the same!!!! Have to work on that! This very nice fellow was beginning his program with, "Raise your hand if you are the person at your organization that is in charge of the Annual Appeal." All 100 attendees raised their hand. "Keep your hand raised, if you are ALSO in charge of the Planned Giving." 25 hands went down. "Keep you hand raised if you are ALSO in charge of Major Gifts." 25 hands went down. "Keep your hand raised if you are ALSO in charge of Events." Another 25 hands went down. I was looking around the room AMAZED that there were still others in a similar position as MOI!! "Keep your hand raised if you are ALSO in charge of the PR." Down went 15 hands. "Keep your hand raised if you are ALSO in charge of the Marketing." Down went 5 more!

5 of us left with Hands Raised!! The speaker went on to say-Let's give these folks a hand!! One Person Shop!!! I was a bit surprised…I hadn't really thought of my job in these terms. It seems like you just do what you have to do! I could see my fellow conference attendees viewing MOI in a new light, instead of who is that OLDER woman over there…now I was a ONE PERSON SHOP WONDER!!!!

My last session was on how to raise money in difficult financial times!! Hoping to find TRUE insight here! Three speakers from different corporations all seemed quite pleasant and were smiling…so I thought, this has to be good!! They all outlined their giving strategies, none of which would apply to my job…so, I remained hopeful that they would provide ADDITIONAL insight…and then….it appeared on the screen: "Skilled Volunteering!!" Skilled Volunteering…why didn't I think of calling it that!! You are all in DEMAND, since you are skilled volunteers!! In fact, one company offered pro bono assistance with website design (I took note of that!!!), but that really isn't what we need from a corporation…we need the $$$$! Of course, pro bono legal or accounting help is always desired, but that isn't going to help balance my budget, if I don't need those services. They went on to say they were looking for "Team Building" volunteer experiences for their employees, such as painting…Friend, Louise Davis suggested that we could get another dumpster and instead of MOI spending the day going up and down those stairs, it could be a TEAM BUILDING project!! This definitely has possibilities!

And alas, just like Oprah's makeovers…I hate to admit it, but I have not kept up my "organizing system in my office." It isn't horrible, but the piles are back-maybe a function of 6 different things all converging at once….but still, no excuses….I called my organizer helper back on Saturday for a session! He was nice, but firm-he didn't really YELL at MOI, but just said that he couldn't believe that I had fallen back into my old habits (It was a good thing he didn't see the piles of papers on my dining room table!)….Well, what does he expect, MIRACLES?? He is correct, of course…but, I am doing my best!! We managed to get things back in order and better shape. Why does this happen??? I AM open to change…I just have certain habits that are hard to break! Those piles of papers!! He is trying to help MOI get rid of things that I can find on the web. My problem is that if I don't see it, I don't always think of looking it up on the web. Every time I put a piece of paper in the recycling, he would shout HOORAY! It is nice to get that POSITIVE reinforcement! I can see why our kids love it!!! We are working on setting up a Google doc where I can keep my notes, instead of using all those cute note cards that are pink with a "P" on them! BUT, I LOVE THOSE NOTE CARDS!! I told him that I would be a challenge!! At the end, we decided that his Tag Line should be, "He's tough, but gets RESULTS!"

As many of you know, I LOVE anything with made with apples, as in PIE, TARTE TATIN, CRISP, and my all time favorite, Carmel apples, so Delicious!! I am so excited this time of year because Carmel apples abound! So you can ONLY imagine my horror to discover the caloric count of my FAVORITE TREAT!!! I was about to bite into this delicious treat when I saw that the calorie count was only 140 calories per serving per apple. HOW FABULOUS!! And just as I was to take the SECOND bite, I noticed the fine print in the SERVING size…..3 per apple! ARE YOU KIDDING MOI!!!! Three folks sharing ONE APPLE! Oh my goodness!! Here I was ready to chow down on the entire thing, not realizing I had to share it with others if I wanted to stay thin!
It is NEVER easy is it!

Chatting with fellow young people in the office, another FAB shoe site for you all!
www.shoebuy.com

Time to get out the PURPLE!! Jeff is certainly excited about this color!! His beloved Northwestern team may even get invited to a Bowl Game! Let's just hope it is in a geographically desirable destination!!

PURPLE goes well with Black and Grey, so it can go with your wardrobe. One piece will signify to others how truly CHIC you are!

Look for something simple, such as a sweater, maybe a cardigan or turtleneck, handbag, ballet flat, Bootie (INC International Concept: Coral Bootie, $89 at Macy's. A wool scarf could give that black winter coat just the touch it needs!!

Taking next week off from the Newsletter, Heading to Mexico for a holiday! Can't wait to see what Fashion tips I can find there!!!!

A full report in two weeks!!

Lot of love,
P

And WHICH budget would that come out of????

2008-10-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

The call came in from the Board President…if you ever want me to pick up my phone, just use the Board President's cell phone and I will be sure to answer! I KNOW to answer that phone call!!! He is always very direct and asked how many Poinsettia plants I wanted to order for the Art Center for Holiday decoration. HMMMMM….since I provide the weekly floral arrangements (at my own expense), I was very surprised to find that the Art Center bought Poinsettias for the Holidays. And, as I am very FAMILIAR with every line in our budget, never noticed one for Holiday poinsettias! And, not wishing to appear confused on the phone with the Board President, (these are the issues I face on a daily basis!!!!) I decided that honesty would be the best. "I didn't realize that we purchased Poinsettias for the Holidays. Did we do this last year?" (I have found it wise to ask if they did it last year…gives a reference point!) "Well, yes…I am sure we did." Always wanting to provide a more decorative interior for the Art Center, I was thrilled that we did this. However, with no idea how we would pay for it, short of MOI paying for it…decided to inquire further! The Board President went on to say that we had ordered some small ones and medium size ones. O.K.???? "And Which Budget would this come out of???" The Board President seemed a bit surprised that I would be so hesitant to order the Poinsettias. Don't get MOI wrong, I LOVE poinsettias…Jeff loves Poinsettias we all LOVE poinsettias…but, as we all know, the take lots of care, watering and maintenance to look FAB! Plus, they don't like the cold and I could only think of putting them by the entrance, with a door that opens constantly. ON THE OTHER HAND….it would save MOI time, since I wouldn't have to do the arrangements for a few weeks. And let's be honest….I am truly into saving times these days!!! I am like, WHO CAN I PAY TO DO THINGS!!! And it isn't event December yet (I usually flip out at that time of year..this is a little early!!!

We have our Winter Expo Arts and Crafts sale staring in November and running until mid-December, which has put me into high gear a little earlier than usual! The Expo takes over the entire first floor of the Art Center with 85 artists selling their items….so, not sure we would even have the space for those poinsettias. You can see my dilemma…. There had to be MORE to this phone call…You know how that goes with your kids, when you are getting only PART OF THE STORY…it was that same conversation. So….the Board President continued to say that he was selling them for one of his organizations!! Are you Kidding MOI??!!!!

That's better!! Everyone should know that you can't fool MOM! Now, I get the picture. I always order poinsettias for our house from various fundraisers, so I am happy to order them from him! "Here's the deal….we can't order them for the Art Center, but I am happy to buy them for my house." Not quite the response he was looking for, but continued…"Well, how many do you want? They are small, medium and large." CLEARLY, he does not buy poinsettias for his own home. SMALL, MEDIUM and LARGE…I need dimensions… "Do they come in different colors?" I always order a selection and like the pink/white combos. "Different Colors???" I could see that he wasn't a happy camper…He just wanted me to say 5 medium ones in red, this was getting to be an ORDEAL…but, hey….if I am buying them for my home…I want them to be right! "Do you have an order form that lists all the info???" This put him over the edge…First the sigh, then he said he had to go, but would drop something off this week. I truly didn't mean to be difficult, but, for a floral arranger, poinsettias are IMPORTANT! Just trying to do my job and stay on BUDGET!!!!

Went to a luncheon for my new group, CWIP – love that acronym! Chicago Women in Philanthropy. They were celebrating their 25th anniversary with a luncheon honoring Desiree Rogers, now the President of Social Networking for Allstate. That is a title for MOI to aspire too!!!!!!! She is an amazing woman and has been a role model for working women, so I was looking forward to words of wisdom from this super woman!! She was dressed in a very Chic and FAB suit! Love that!! Couldn't see the shoes from my seat, but I just KNEW they would be perfect! She received her award and then took the podium to much applause….the room grew quiet and she began. "I really don't like to speak from prepared notes….." Are you kidding MOI!! Here is this super woman, speaking off the cuff…I knew we were in trouble! She spent the first 5 minutes thanking everyone, a nice touch and then sort of "winged it!" As you all know, I am La REIGN of winging it, but not when I am speaking to a group of 500 women! She started talking a bit about the downturn in the economy and how it would be affecting nonprofits…O.K., here we go…..looking for a way to perhaps see if there will be hope for this year ahead! That aforementioned budget will only be balanced, if I make that 25% increase in my fundraising…

She went on to say that nonprofits should look to having more volunteers to help out, since people will have less money to donate, they will give more time.
Less Money..More Time??????

My mind is reeling…maybe a slogan… "We will take your time, instead of your money!" Then, I thought….I really need to see how I can turn those volunteer hours into $$$$$ (if I figure out how to do this, then I will truly be amazing!!). Now, many of us do volunteer to raise $$$ for many nonprofits, but, this wasn't what she was referring to in this speech. I think she felt that we could have volunteers do things that nonprofits pay for, thereby saving us money! There is some merit in this! However, nonprofits truly have become leaner in the past few years, so those fun volunteer jobs have gone away!! The jobs that we need help with are data entry and maintenance! Not so enticing for those volunteers and then there is the little problem of paying for certain services. Artists are very generous people, but if they are teaching classes, they would like to be paid! This is their job! Not sure if volunteers teaching their classes will really make it!

The speech ended and I found myself standing close to Desiree as we were leaving. I thought here is my chance to really get further definition on her Less/More theme…maybe some ideas. I waited patiently for my turn and was about to introduce myself, when this younger woman just walked right in front of MOI! She had on a name badge with her bank listed on it(and one that I KNOW people at!)….I didn't say anything, mainly because I was so surprised that someone would be so RUDE! She introduced herself, chatted and then walked off. Of course, by this time, Desiree had to go, so missed my moment…Heading over to the elevator, the door opened and I got in, the doors were just about to close when Ms. Rude walks in. She looks at MOI (We had 20 floors to go!) and realizes who I was. She turned and said, "I am sorry, that was so RUDE of me to go in front of you, just now." A nice touch, I thought, but I couldn't help myself and replied… "You should really think about breaking into a conversation, while wearing a name tag."

Chic for Less is now everywhere-including an entire section in the November issue of INSTYLE mag! BUY IT!!! TarJay is still hot…People Mag featured many of the items I wrote about last week! Although, some of the items are already sold out online!! See if you can find them in stores and BUY THEM!

For Handbags-check out www.sandraroberts.com some great buys under $100!!! Also, www.shopsueyboutique.com has a great selection!
Check out the bracelets at J. Crew – www.jcrew.com, they are 12K gold-plated with resin and wood beads, so fab and at $95- a great look for not too much $$$
Great bangle bracelets for $30 and $35 at www.emitations.com stack them with your watch or mix them with your bracelets from J. Crew. Keep all other jewelry minimal!

And with SNOW in this week's forecast….Boots are everywhere! Saw some very cute ones form Hogan at Saks…they are motorcycle in style with a round toe, Mid-calf and a small buckle detail…but, on the other hand, you probably will have more fun shopping at this website where BOOTS are FAB at www.newport-news.com

Love the Patent Leather High boots and also the booties with a ribbon detail.
"Luke" faux leather boots by Michael Antonio at www.shiekhshoes.com for $53 are Fab and you won't have to worry about the snow ruining them!!

And as it gets colder some tips for LIPS!

Fab Lip Glosser-for $29 – you will love it!
http://lauragormancosmetics.com/products/lip-toxyl-sheer-starlet

And for under $10 the following!
LanoLip's All-Natural Lip Scrub exfoliates and SMOOTHS with sugar! YUM!! www.lanolip.com $9.99

CoverGirl Outlast Smoothwear lipliner's precision pen lasts all day (or at least a long time!!) $5.99 at Drugstores

Collagen-boosting (always FAB) Sally Hansen Lip Line treatment fills in those little lines around the mouth! $9.95 at Drugstores

Korres Lip Butter in Pomegranate is filled with antioxidants, including vitamin C and E, gives chapped lips a shine and touch of pink! www.sephora.com $9

Vaseline Lip Therapy in Cherry is time tested and FAB for $1.99 at Drugstores.

Green by Nature Lip Shine gives you a shine with a peppermint-oil glaze which leaves your breath smelling FAB too! For $9.99, A 2-fer!! www.greenbynaturebeauty.com

Happy Halloween!!
Love, P

“I’m the Executive Director and this is ......"

2008-10-27T00:08:00.001-07:00

Paula, who does everything else!"

WHATTTTTTT??? Did I hear that correctly???

My boss and I were at one of our "Art Collectors" events-this is one of our "exclusive" benefits of membership at the art center (discounts on art classes is the other-although, this past week I was "dialing for dollars" as one of my staff members put it, as I arranged for other discounts at Art Supply and Framing stores…). My boss was welcoming the group of attendees to this event on Friday evening (love these events that go from 7-9 p.m. on Friday evenings!) I had spent part of the day running around to get the food, then set it up and bring it over to the house, unload, set-up and of course, look FAB and be charming to great all our members. Not so sure about the looking FAB part…probably, looking TIRED would be more like it! You know, it is rough to look good by Friday evening without a little time to "freshen up!" I managed to do the lipstick as blush thing as I was driving over. I found a concealer stick in my make-up bag and was working on the under eye area at a stoplight and looked over to see another woman giving me the HIGH FIVE sign!! A SISTER!!!!! I thought, thank goodness, I had that concealer! I could have used some hair goop to make my bangs straight, but had to sort of mush them to the side-thank goodness for the toussled look!! Sexy on some, hiding bad bangs on others!!!!!

Needless to say, by the time folks started to arrive, I was ready to go home!! But, always trying to be cheerful, I put my "party" face on and graciously poured beverages…of course, the Board President had arrived and started to ask MOI something and all of the sudden, the allergies went into gear and I started sneezing…Trying to avoid the food buffet, which I was standing behind, I just smiled and RAN out of the room. The collection was all on the first floor and no place to go…so I headed out the front door!! I stood outside sneezing and now coughing when my boss arrived. "Good God, Paula. What is WRONG with you??" I just looked at him and said "LEAVES!" Finished with my "FIT" and returned inside to apologize to the Board President for my rather hasty departure. Ended up serving everyone and making small talk encouraging everyone there to donate $10K each and then I would be in good shape for the rest of the year!!! IN MY DREAMS!! I was just hoping that everyone had paid their $25 donation for the evening. (the receptionists take the reservations)…I will have to check the list on Monday, since several were supposed to pay at the door and arrived empty handed, but we didn't have name tags, so not sure who paid and who didn't! Have to work on that system!

The program started and my boss came out with that INTRO! I guess, it doesn't get any better than this!

I can never decide if the Fall is busier than the Spring…it is always such a toss up! I did notice when I looked at the projected fall calendar, things would be a tad busy in the fall…but still HAD NO IDEA!! Just so many deadlines all over the place and of course, no control over all the pieces, so one has to work around EVERYONE else's schedules…but, hey, I am a MOM which is, as we all know, perfect training for working with EVERYONE else's schedules and at the same time, trying to fit in a Manicure/Hair Cut/Lunch with friends, if you can!

This past week was Arts Week across the state of Illinois, so we had special events going on at the Art Center all week. Thursday morning was meet your Legislators at a student run artist café located close to my high school. I thought it would be fun to go back to the old neighborhood!!!! It was an early morning affair, so put on the business suit, with beige fishnets and pointy-toed heels. Not so sure what to wear to a Legislator's Breakfast, but they had representatives from the Federal and State, so best to go with the "Corporate" attire. Arrived to see all the Artists were wearing their usual attire….and yours truly, the only one in a suit aside from the Legislators, who all wore suits and the women all had BAD SHOES!! One did her best to show her support of the arts by wearing a very pretty pin from an Illinois artist, but she also had on a necklace and earrings that did not go with that pin. I surmised that she just put that pin on THINKING she could fool this group, but AU CONTRAIRE…little did she know…I was on to her. I am sure she took that pin off the minute she left….You can't fool MOI!! And those SHOES….Maybe I should have given them a few fashion tips!

HELLO…people are looking at your shoes!!! Bad shoes can always be distracting! I guess they are used to speaking behind podiums, so maybe folks couldn't see their shoes-please don't ask MOI what they talked about…I was too busy staring at shoes! Since I live in a different legislative district, I couldn't vote for this folks, but since I try to get funding from all levels of government, I was very curious to hear what they had to say about any additional funding they might provide to the Arts!

They each had 10 minutes to talk, but the time the 4^th person started….I was looking at my watch! By now it was 9:30 a.m. and you know how you get that feeling that things are not going well….like the times you are in the grocery store and you finally find everything you need and you rush to the check out line to see only ONE person checking folks out and the clock shows that you can only stand in line for 5 minutes, check out, BAG your groceries, rush to your car, unload the groceries into the car and then rush to pick up your kids. You are torn between LEAVING your FULL cart and doing this all over again WITH YOUR CHILDREN, or risking the wrath of your children yelling at you because you are late picking them up. It was that feeling! AND isn't it funny, even though your kids are grown….you still remember that feeling!!!! So when the 5^th person started chatting about supporting the arts and her kids were taking dance lessons and drum lessons and how she might have to buy a "real" set of drums….I don't know what possessed MOI, but I said, in a rather loud voice, that I had that set of drums and that we could work out some sort of deal!!! The room erupted into laughter.

As soon as it was over, I rushed out to see 5 messages on my cell phone…. ARE YOU KIDDING MOI?? It was only 10:20 a.m.?? Jumped in the car and started listening to them. The first was from the Board President who said that he wanted to redo a letter that was going out to the Board and he would be at the Art Center at 10:30 a.m. This was followed by messages from other co-workers saying that my Ikebana sensei couldn't be there today, since her husband was sick. Of course, this was the day that we were having an Open House for the public, as part of arts week, and the Ikebana class was the featured class……AND….I also had two deadlines, one for our newsletter and the other for our winter expo event. Oh, did I also mention the call from my boss wondering why we didn't have an article in a publication about our current exhibition. I seriously thought about just driving home and going to back to bed! I had already spent the morning with people of power and influence and done my best to distinguish myself, or at best make a statement. But then, as you all know…I just THRIVE on this kind of thing! Always up to a challenge, however, still felt terrible from my allergies, so not quite 100%, but I had on those shoes and enough coffee for a lifetime..so GOOD TO GO!

Arrived to greet the Board President, and ready to tackle that letter. Called a local florist (thank goodness I spend a fortune with them-I know Jeff would also agree!!!!), and told them I needed WHATEVER they had to make 15 sets for the Ikebana class-AND COULD THEY DELIVER IT?? THANK GOODNESS FOR VISA! Met with the graphic artist who was not pleased that I didn't have all the copy for the newsletter finished, but told her that I would treat her to lunch next week! Met with winter expo coordinator and tried to smooth that one over….Flowers arrived and then to set up for the Ikebana lesson and demo….Folks arrived and the room filled up! GO IKEBANA!!! Finished the course, graphic artist gave me until tomorrow to finish the copy (will have to buy her a NICE LUNCH) and then…miracles upon miracles….at 5 p.m. I went to check my email and there was a message from the editor of the publication I have been trying to get an article in!!! He apologized for being so late in responding, but was sending his best reporter out in the next week and then signed it… "All the best," ALL THE BEST…editors never respond this way…well, I shouldn't say never, but most of the time, I spend so much time BEGGING them to write something…and there it is…ALL THE BEST…

It is so funny…..when things seem at their darkest…the light always shines!

GO immediately to TARJAY!! Or to www.target.com

Oh MY!

Go to the Go International section. Very cute clothes by Jonathan Saunders…they are Junior sized, so you probably need to order up a size or two, but very cute jackets and sweaters…maybe buy the Mini dresses for your daughter, but the tops are FAB!!!

Then…move on over to the ANYA HINDMARCH line. Just buy all the handbags! Here stuff is SO FAB and SO CHIC!!!!!! Love the entire line…Then over to shoes….and lo and behold…SIGERSON MORRISON…it is like Christmas! Her ballet flats are fab!! But at these prices just buy it all! I have ballet flats I bought 5 years ago and they are still FAB!!!!!! And last buy not least…jewelry-the line by Dean Harris may not be your thing, but check out it out! I love the earrings and bracelets! The necklaces are great for layering….many great pieces that look like they cost $$$$!

And once again, you heard it here first! A Victor line (the one from Carson's) sweater was featured in this Sunday Trib's fashion section! I know you already own it!!!!

Have a great week!!!!

Lots of love,

Brush with Fame!

2008-09-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Chicago has experienced a "spot" of rain this weekend!! 8 inches in our neighborhood, which for us, is quite a bit!! Lots of flooding, but for MOI….a blessing in disguise. Now that both boys are away, hubby, Jeff looks FORWARD to attending all the Northwestern football games with MOI! Of course, they are fun..but, he likes to GO EARLY, and since most games start at 11:00 a.m., that means leaving at 9:00 a.m. for Tailgating, which actually means that I have to get everything ready BEFORE 9:00 a.m. and then returning home around 4:00 p.m. Pretty much shoots the day! And when you are a working Gal….those Saturdays are VERY IMPORTANT for SHOPPING!!!! But, after 28 years of marriage, I know that this is not NEGOTIABLE!!! So, I smile, don my "Purple" attire (actually, lots to choose from this season!!!) and make the best of it! You can imagine my thoughts as I awoke to the torrential downpour that had been going on all night. I greeted Jeff with a cheerful "what time do you want to leave?" It was all I could do to smile. I could see Jeff was thinking….Maybe skip the Tailgate and go at 10:00 a.m. (10:00 a.m. and do what?? Sit in the rain for an additional hour???!!), but remained cheerful..O.K…what ever you say. Showered and washed my hair, about to put on make-up and thought, WHY BOTHER…it is pouring outside and I will be so wet…

Went downstairs to find Jeff surveying the yard (which by now is underwater) and the street, no flooding there yet, but the TV was announcing that parts of the local expressway were closed. I SAY NOTHING…..Jeff flips the channels and finds that the Game will be shown on the Big 10 network! YES! I STILL SAY NOTHING….I try to remain casual…get the "To Go" cups for coffee…"What time, honey??" Then, the most AMAZING thing comes out of his mouth…..I think it is too dangerous (dangerous??) to be driving around today, with all the streets flooding…so let's skip the game! I try to contain my GLEE! REMAIN CASUAL! Oh, o.k., I may just try to run a few errands then!!!!! OFF I WENT!!

It is so wonderful to have a "free day!" Of course, before this, had no time to get the manicure/pedicure that I was desperate for-so I called around and found someone free at a local salon! HOORAY! Then, just another run over to Carson's to check out more of the Victor line…it really is FABULOUS! I had received a mailer on SHOES, JEWELRY AND HANDBAGS…missed those before or maybe they weren't in the store yet…anyway….had to check them out for MOI or rather for YOU!!!

As I entered the store, I heard this man talking about Career dressing on a microphone…what's this??? A Fashion Show at Carson's???? I couldn't believe it…Did I mention my attire?? It truly was raining…so, I had on this 7/8th hooded YELLOW rain slicker and then my favorite rain boots from the Paul Smith collection 2004. They have a wild pattern on them and I LOVE THEM! I was wearing a skirt, so basically all you could see was the rain slicker and boots…quite fetching! Oh, did I mention I had my wallet, phone and keys in a Ziploc plastic bag…couldn't take a chance on ruining my FAB Handbags!!!! So, I wandered over to see what was going on and THERE in CARSON'S was Lloyd Boston, Fashion Style Expert, who is the spokesperson for Jones New York and written a book on fashion. I had just seen him on a Oprah re-run a few weeks ago and there…there he was only steps away!!!! I stayed to watch the rest of the show and then headed over to the handbags…which are FABULOUS by the way. The oversized clutch has a V at the closure…which really could be possibly confused with V for VALENTINO and I think you should just make the assumption that it is the LATTER! BUY IT NOW!

As I was paying…I happened to notice Mr. Boston (who is very cute, with a nice smile and much shorter in person than he looked on TV) was walking right past MOI! So, I just stood there, smiled and welcomed him to Chicago (He had luggage, so I assumed he wasn't from CHI-TOWN). I pointed to my ensemble and said that this is fashion in Chicago! He smiled and said, "LOVE THE POINTY-TOED WELLIES!!"

Thought you might enjoy the recipes on this link from WALGREEN's! Who knew they have recipes on their eblast!

Friend, Lori Witz, formerly of Chicago, now of Hilton Head Fame and well-known fashionista was visiting this week. Of course, we met to chat and SHOP!!!! I showed here those very cute booties from Payless and she was hooked!!! And she was wearing a very cute Black Anorak from the Simply Vera Line at KOHL'S! I went online and bought it ASAP! It is adorable!!!!

And I have to tell you all again to got to TARJAY! The Mossimo pointy toed raspberry-toned patent leather (or pleather) ballet flats are such a hit! I wore them this week and EVERY person I met commented on how FAB they were! Plus, the Mary Janes, with ruffle detail in a lavender color appeared in a fashion segment in a local newspaper…..Need I say anything MORE!

I am so glad life is so engaging. I often marvel at the WEALTH of material I have to work with each week!

Kisses, P

For Sale: $1.50

2008-09-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

A rather ominous sign was on the porch of the Fraternity house, as we rounded the corner to Jeffrey's new abode! From the street, the House looked like it was the set for the "Munsters" TV show!! The lawn was half mowed, (with Lawn Mower left mid-lawn, as if it had run out of gas or the mower had a better offer!) and there were weeds everywhere. It hadn't rained for a few weeks, so everything looked a bit brown. There were grills (plural???), several refrigerators and ladders sitting on the front porch…As we got out of the car and walked toward the front door, we noticed the FOR SALE sign with the amount posted. After driving 9 hours, I was not amused….in fact, I thought….what the heck?????? It looked like it should be in FORCLOSURE or better yet…CONDEMED!!!!!! Jeffrey seemed excited and started laughing when he saw the sign (a good thing, I guess!). He had the proper upbringing and brought the sign INSIDE, so as not to "horrify other Mom's"!!!! Of course, Jeff just thought the whole thing was so "TYPICAL of college life!" ……it is nice to know that even after all these years of raising boys, I can still be surprised at what is deemed "acceptable" living conditions!

We entered the House to gaze up GINORMOUS garbage cans filled with renovation debris! It turns out they had decided to redo all the bathrooms over the summer break. Jeffrey reminded MOI that he had told MOI this last May, when he was first home and that I remarked that was a GOOD THING! Obviously, that went into the deep recesses of my mind!!! Not in short term memory! So after 4 months, they had one shower completed in one bathroom (six bathrooms in all) and one working toilet in another bathroom. Jeffrey announced that most the bathrooms in the BASEMENT still had to be completed…You can only imagine!!!! So we forged ahead….Jeffrey also announced (interesting how these topics didn't come up during our 9 hours drive-I guess that is because he SLEPT during the entire drive- due to a late night out with friends….one more time before he left for school!! Wouldn't want to spend a night without partying with friends!!!!! These kids really have stamina!!!!) that he was the second to last person to pick a room, due to the Lottery…I am sure he just forgot to put his name in for the LOTTERY! SOOOOOOO…..his room is first one off the Living Room….Jeff and I just looked at each other…O.K., when is this kid going to study???!! Anyway, his room was being used as the storage room for all the building materials!!!! Not so simple to unload the car and move in! The nice thing is that he does have a single….we can only hope that might make a difference!

The next day, the "MEN" set about clearing out the debris (outside dumpster was filled to the brim) and then to paint the room (it was a lovely shade of BLOOD RED). We didn't say anything, Jeffrey thought he wanted a different color (so proud of him!). So, as the Queen of "Linen White," I knew my baby wanted to have his walls just like his room at home. I asked him what color he was thinking about and his reply…ORANGE!

O.K.! I suggested he might want to think about a shade of white and he said that he was tired of that, since our whole house is white! LOVE THAT KID!!!

We also had to find a rug shampoo machine…you all know the drill. Did I mention there wasn't any furniture….But, most importantly, the GINORMOUS Big Screen TV in the Living Room remained PRISTINE! These boys have their priority!

Headed to the Home Depot, my new favorite shop, who knew it had so much! Convinced Jeffrey to really think about that Linen White-it would open up a small space!!!! While Jeff and Jeffrey were debating the paint color choices, I wandered a bit….in the next aisle, noticed a nice Amish fellow looking at door latches (Who knew there were so many to choose from! I will be honest with you, I get very confused about the lifestyles of each of these groups. I thought some made all their own tools….Or don't have electricity! I know..I know..I should be up on all this. I do know that they were Amish (Jeff confirmed this!) but surprised to see them at Home Depot! ). He was there with his young son (about 6 years old). His son kept staring at MOI and so I smiled and tried to look Grandmotherly….not wanting to scare him….And then he kept STARING AT MOI! I finally walked by thinking why isn't he staring at the zillions of shelves of Door Latches. Perhaps, he was looking at my tres chic Gucci Bag!!! Painting supplies in hand and saw that we could also rent a rug shampoo machine, back to the House! The space was small and I didn't pack "Painting ATTIRE," so I was left to help out the best way I know!

It was a beautiful day outside, so headed out to tackle that LAWN! No gardening gloves, but thought it best to use the disposable latex gloves we had purchased to paint. I did a quick assessment and thought it best to move the lawn mower to the collection of "equipment" on the front porch. Noticed that the House didn't have a garage??? Decided not to think too much more about this! Also noticed that the Lawn Mower must have been in that spot for a few weeks!!!! Felt best to work on the weeds, since it was difficult to tell which were weeds and which were not! (Thank goodness, I have paid close attention at all of Pam Benz's Butterfly Garden weeding events. I know that I gave her pause, many times, in my efforts to "beautify" the Butterfly Garden! Get rid of those unattractive plants! But, Pam showed MOI the way and told me that in fact, many of those plants attracted butterflies, so very important for the garden!) I noticed the 6 foot milk weed pods interspersed with the arborvitae and felt it best to start there!! Fortunately, it was dry, so with aggressive tugging, they popped out!! I was really going to town with these and had filled 6 large garbage bags in no time!! I found some lovely ivy and myrtle ground cover underneath. Rounding the house, I was now focusing on the front. Several of the weeds were clumped together, so I knew that I would have to get a good grip (I wonder why I didn't think to go back to Home Depot to buy gardening gloves and tools-it just never entered my mind!) and pull. With great gusto, I bent over and gave it my all….I pulled so hard that I fell back on my tailbone, on a piece of flagstone. I thought I would die! All I could think about was the 9 hour ride HOME! I sat there for several moments…not sure what to do…Scream….or….CRY! Decided the latter!! Still had the other half of the house to go….so pulled myself up and continued the purge!!

All in all filled 14 LARGE yard bags…piled them up at dumpster and PRAYED that they would be picked up for fear that the weeds would find their way to re-root!! I found a broom somewhere and gave the walks a sweep. Decided the front porch needed a FLORAL touch! Headed back to Home Depot for MUMS!! They said HARDY on them..I just hope they are BEER proof!!!

Upon leaving the next day, Jeffrey remarked that several of his "Brothers" were impressed and said that the yard looked great. AND they loved the MUMS!!!!

Returning to reality found myself working a shift at the "Deacon's Closet." It is Thrift operation run by 1st Pres in Evanston. They are open several days a month and take in donations and give them to folks in the community who are in need. I was doing a few extra community service hours for an organization, and so curious to see how it compared to Thrift House. The Church is located about a mile from out shop…so serving a similar demographic. The only difference is that the Thrift House cliental is purchasing the items and the proceeds from those sales goes to pay for programs serving the community. This is a more direct, however, things aren't always so simple! I was there to help the "clients" with choosing their items. Each person gets 5 items per family member, but they all have to come from different categories. Interestingly, t-shirts were the hot items….I was only allowed to let them have only one! I noticed some Fabulous Ferragamo shoes that had been donated. The "clients" gave them a pass. My mind was racing…at Thrift House we practically give t-shirts away…yet we have a huge demand for Ferragamo shoes! (We have very CHIC clients!) Will have to figure out a better system for both groups!!! Maybe a swap-T-shirts for Ferragamo's! I did my best to be helpful and cheerful!! Several "clients" commented that they liked my "Ensemble." So nice to know that good design transcends all economic strata! At the end of my shift, there was a large garbage bag filled with items. One of the woman said that it was a bag for ESCCA, I couldn't believe what I heard. A bag for ESCADA???? All the lovely folks just turned and looked at MOI…NO ESCCA, a place that takes donations of children's clothes. O.K., now how to redeem myself. Asked where it was located and found out it was on my way home, so grabbed the large bag and headed out the door. As I was walking out of the Church, several "clients" asked it I needed help out to my car-so polite! I smiled and said no…and then received the best compliment of all. YOU GO GIRL!!! It just doesn't get any better than this!

Of course, more to report…but MORE IMPORTANTLY…the FALL FASHION SEASON IS IN FULL SWING!!

Had sort of a LONG day at work, no details, but we were experiencing the remnants of the Hurricane. Torrential downpour, so I had driven that day. We are between sessions at school, so the maintenance staff was busy sprucing up the building painting all the walls WHITE!! I didn't realize one of the walls wasn't dry and for some reason managed to brush against it getting my raincoat and suit coat dusted with white paint. It wouldn't be a problem except that they were BLACK! I had offered to drive the intern home (IT WAS POURING and she had far to go-couldn't ride her bike!). So, driving along, I noticed all the white paint on my "ensemble!" Tried to be light hearted about it (naturally, it was one of my ITALIAN ensembles), I laughed and said Turpentine would take it out! Dropping her off, I realized I was close to TARJAY….so, headed there to see if I could find Turpentine and CHECK OUT THE FALL ITEMS! No Turpentine, but headed to the clothes….OH MY GOODNESS! Not so impressed with the Isaac Mizrahi line (I think it is his last line with TARJAY before he heads over to Liz Claiborne!), but the MOSSIMO line is FAB!!!! Picked up a very cool denim-like suit jacket. I think it is denim material, anyway it is a suit with stitching and looks very similar to the Chloe jacket I purchased last spring….At $29.99 BUY IT! They had adorable pencil skirts and great t-shirt tops in black and grey-long-sleeved and perfect for fall!!! BUY THEM! Nice v-neck sweaters-thin, great for layering! BUY THEM!!!! Headed over to the GO International line! Adorable blouses and Anorak jackets!!!!! BUY THEM! Of course, the handbags were next door! I bought all the Botiker ones!! And a few others…One had a Marc by Marc Jacobs look to it! BUY THEM!! And then dashed over to shoes! Some great pointy (but not too pointy) toed Mossimo ballet flats in a deep raspberry patent, with a blending of colors-I am not describing it well-you will see it when you go there!! VERY FAB!!! Also picked up a pair of Mary Jane Patent pumps in a shade of PURPLE! They are fun! BUY THEM!

Filled up my cart and headed out!!!! So next day, headed to Payless….OMG! They have terrific shoes! I bought a Black Patent high heeled Oxford. I am not super crazy about this style shoe, but it is tres chic for the moment, so buy it at Payless and be au courant! It looks so similar to the very expensive ones, so get the look with out the price. The Abate line also has two booties, one patent and one grey suede…buy them both!!!! Truly on a roll…

Saw in O mag, that there is a new line at Carsons!!! (I know Jo Ann is laughing right now!). Headed there on my way home! It is by Victor Alfaro and it is the upscale answer to the Simply Vera line at Kohl's. WHERE ELSE can you get all this market analysis???? It is the same price point as Vera's, with a few items over $200. BUT, it is nicely made and right now, it is all 30% AND, if you don't have a Carson's charge, I think you get an additional 20% if you open a charge!!! RUN to check it out!! O mag recommended the Chunky Knit Jacket. It has kimono sleeves and a honeycomb stitch. For $91…..BUY IT!!! You can throw it over everything and be so CHIC!! They have a nice black Sheath dress…you can always use a few more. SOME fab looking Leather (probably Pleather, but that's even better!) jackets! Great sweaters….Did I say FABULOUS???!!! I think you will be quite pleased!

And last but not least…Jessica Simpson is PRINCESS of the shoes and handbags for fall!!! If you visit www.jessicasimpsoncollection.com and enter the code "WDdiary" at checkout to receive 20% off your entire purchase! Valid until September 30th! Yes, I even read Woman's Day, so you don't have to!!! They have great articles about organizing!!! Too bad, I don't have the time TO FOLLOW THEIR SUGGESTIONS!

And truly last but not least…..

Both my boys do their best to make their mother proud!

Jeffrey sends in a recent email (which alone is something to admire!!!! Contacting the parents!!), and I quote, "…everything has been going well, I have planned some successful rushing events as social chair, they say I'm the best they have seen in years."

Charlie is now in Japan, for a year, teaching English in two Japanese Jr. High Schools. He is part of the JET program, a Japanese government program that brings foreigners to remote cities in Japan (well that really isn't the program, but that is more of the reality!) He is living in Hamatonbetsu, the northern most point in Hokkaido, across the water from SIBERIA! All you Tokyoites might enjoy reliving your first few months in Japan by visiting Charlie's blog. It is interesting to see what our kids are doing, with that experience early in their lives!!!

http://leftinfront.wordpress.com/

Happy Fall!!!

Love, P

P on YouTube!

2008-08-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

Ikebana for all!

2008-08-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

It certainly was a week for TV! Thanks to dear friend Kate who watched my debut on cable TV. She sent an email that I was A. O.K., at least I didn't embarrass myself! I couldn't wait for the IT guy to bring in the tape…he had forgotten the first day…..(It airs three times a week),,HONESTLY..I WAS DYING TO SEE THE VIDEO!!!! The show runs for a half-hour. SO GLAD I took Charla's advice and wore that nude lipstick, with a light pink color. It really DOES make you look younger!!! Fortunately, the camera wasn't too close, so those wrinkles weren't so visible!! Will let you know when it is up on Youtube!!!
Such a Video world!!!

Ikebana has arrived at the Art Center!! Ye of little faith have now seen the light! All the "artists" at the center (including my boss), were dismissive of my claims that Ikebana is truly a visual art form! How Silly!! As you all know, I have been making those arrangements to welcome folks to the Art Center. The Director of Education was quite taken with them and wanted to have classes in them at the Art Center! Score 1 for Paula!
I talked with my Sensei, Mrs. Baily, and she thought it would be wonderful to teach classes! We have a group of 8 (o.k., so I am paying for three of the interns to take the class! They wouldn't let it run unless we had 8!!) and they started this week. We set them up in one of the galleries, since they weren't sure if the class would be filled or not, so they didn't assign classroom space…Again, YE OF LITTLE FAITH! It turned out to be the perfect space, since the gallery is located right next to the kitchen-great for clean up!!
It was so much fun to see everyone starting to learn Ikebana!! It brought back so many memories! The interns loved it! And they did a fantastic job!! My boss came running to find MOI (I am going to take it next session-no time this time!) and was very excited!! He was thrilled to see what they were doing! He even ran to get his camera to take photos to use on the website and in future marketing material!! One small step for the Art Center…A GIANT LEAP for IKEBANA!

Once again find myself volunteering at Thrift House…just can't seem to stay away. A management change, so helping out with pricing and getting ready for the Fall Opening on August 21st! In my ZEAL to be organized, I decided it was time to go through those shoes and handbags. A look through my closet, required some purging there too! So, I ended up having a rather large load to take with MOI as I headed there on Saturday morning. We had planned to have a group meet there (I was late, comme d'habitude! But, I was buying the Lattes!) and I arrived to find 10 women busy sorting and pricing! FORMIDABLE! This was terrific! Not wanting to stop all the activity, I started bringing my boxes down to the basement where they were all assembled! They inquired as to the donor of the merchandise, hoping it might be a cut above the Vintage Talbot suits they were currently pricing!! I told them it was mine and suddenly….all activity stopped! 10 women started to hover over the box..waiting to see what was inside, Upon opening, it was the purse box….the first purse was pulled out of the box and into a woman's hand….never to see the pricing gun. I was a bit surprised..actually, sort of embarrassed, since I was not sure the next boxes would surpass the expectations and the excitement! I ran upstairs to bring down the other boxes, leaving the ladies to look for themselves! Down came the box of shoes. "What Size??" "10 or 40 ½" Another group dove in….Then came the clothes…which I hung on an available rack….. "Oh, here is bag of jewelry." Another group dove in! I took the Coffee orders and could see everyone was eyeing the items on the rack. They were WAITING FOR MOI TO LEAVE!!!! One woman remarked, we should have a "Worn by Paula" corner-might boost sales! I just laughed and left to work upstairs….At the end of the shift…each woman came upstairs with a bag of "Previously worn by Paula" to purchase!! It just doesn't get any better than this!!!!

Hard to believe we are into August…time to make the most of all your summer clothes…Fall will be close by and time for those "transition" clothes (always difficult!! You don't want to look like SUMMER when it is FALL…even though is 70 degrees outside!) Neimans lists the following must haves for Fall:
Something in berry colors-cranberry and grape are perfect!
Something Satin-a blouse would be PERFECT! Why not in a berry color!!
High-Vamp heels-very modern, most have a stiletto heel, but they don't have to be too high! They are pointy-toed, look like a low boot. Must wear with tights! But, can wear with pencil skirts, full skirts and that shift dress you bought for summer!
Lace- Something in a handbag or blouse. I found a long jacket and am thinking about a pencil skirt! Make sure it is fitted!
Sleek shapes..get that oversized clutch that is long and narrow! The tunic dress works well, make sure it hits at or just below the knee. Try a fitted longer jacket over narrow pants…It look is simple and elegant!! Don't embellish!
Romantic Blouses-great place to combine with the lace. I found a white blouse with a ruffle! PERFECT!
Statement Jewelry! Bring it on!!! The bigger the better! A fabulous necklace by Alexis Bittar-made of Lucite, agate, Swarovski crystals! "THEY" SAY….you can glom it on! I SAY, stick to one big piece….THOSE "THEY" FOLKS are young!

Happy Shopping!!
Love, P

"I bet you never had to do this at your last job!"

2008-08-12T00:17:00.000-07:00

Au Contraire! As you all know….when you get to be MY AGE…there just isn't too much that you haven't done in the working world-short of hitting the Executive Suite!

As I have said in the past….all these non-profits SAVE everything! Not that it is a bad thing…..but, as we all know…most non-profits have limited space….so saving THINGS, is a huge problem. And here is the other thing, as these non-profits continue to grow…MORE STUFF! Thank goodness all those years at Thrift House have come in handy!! At least I KNOW how to pick through a bag of stuff and find the true gem!!! The Art Center is full of "treasures!!" Who knew artists could be such pack rats!! I know it comes from that "Starving Artist" mentality that many seem to possess…although, several of them drive very spiffy cars, which makes it difficult to see them as STARVING… It is true, that very few truly make a living as a professional artist and to this I can relate!! Just like anything that our kids try to do…very few make it to the top…whether it is sports or the arts. Thank goodness there is a wide open field for academics…although, the college acceptance process leaves a bit to be desired, but still…your odds are better with higher ed!!!

Which brings me back to the Clutter!! It really became apparent when we were setting up for the Spring Benefit a few weeks back…..They always put Christmas tree lights on the bushes at the front of the Center. A nice touch, I thought. We were also looking for the two coat racks….Upon Inquiry of both items…I was told to go up and look in the attic. Never having ventured into that space…I was a bit curious! The Art Center is filled with many closets, rooms and all those bathrooms….but, never had I ventured into the "Attic!" Unlocking the door…I was not quite sure what to expect….artwork from the 20's, treasures, records, furniture??? As I opened the door…I was surprised to see that it was so filled…I couldn't see ANYTHING! Just like home! Truly, working in this mansion is a bit like living at home!!! Things are never totally clean, although the staff is pretty good about doing their own dishes (this is the only workplace where they DON'T have the sign "Clean up after yourself. Your mother doesn't work here." Not only is that a charming sign, but TRUE!!

I spend a good part of my day picking up stray pieces of paper, closing doors, turning out lights…YOU ALL KNOW THE DRILL! But, the attic….a very special place. SOOOOOOOO…since I couldn't even step into the attic….it was off to hardware store for lights-Thank goodness for Harold's Hardware on Central street…They went into their storage attic and found several boxes for MOI!!!! I couldn't locate the coats racks, but fortunately, it was a warm night!! Although a mix up with umbrellas, left a board member most distressed that someone had taken her $$$$ umbrella by MISTAKE!!! I would hope it was a mistake…if you are going to take something…it really wouldn't be an umbrella….I offered to buy her another one (she was very upset), but she said no-it was more upsetting, since it was her favorite. I can relate to this!!

Fast forward to the Exhibition openings!! So far, the weather in CHI-TOWN has been cooperating-raining like heck, but at night!! This also makes it much more pleasant when riding the bicycle!!! But, we didn't want to take a chance with the outdoor sculpture opening, so I inquired as to the whereabouts of the two "EZ-UP" tents. AGAIN....I was told to search in the "Attic!" Now, I don't mind buying Christmas tree lights…but, tents…just didn't want to go there!! Now don't ask MOI why, but again, I thought I should just go and check in the attic. Did I think that it was magically cleared out and cleaned up in the week between events???? Of course, it was the same!! I couldn't see any tents (although to be honest-I wasn't sure what an "EZ-UP" tent looked like! SOOOOOOO…. Went to report the information to my boss…who became distressed at this news. The two tents are for our art students to use at the Evanston Farmers Market, as part of the "Home Grown" Artists program. We get to set up two tents during 4 Saturdays in July and August-Stay tuned for that experience!! So, as you can imagine, my boss was most upset, since we will be using them soon and they were very $$$$. Of course, since I am ALWAYS working on a very short TIME LINE and needed them NOW…….So, I just went upstairs and called House of Rental and rented a tent!! I mean, what's a gal to do!! When you need a tent, you need a tent!!! Of course, doing this without a budget means that one has to be "creative" when one is PAYING for these things!!! Thank goodness for that understanding Jeff!!! House of Rental is easier to justify than NEIMANS!!!

SOOOOOOO…this week, "THEY," obviously, without consulting MOI, decided to rent a dumpster and empty out the attic, so we could actually find things!! Now, this wouldn't have been the week that I would have picked, but so be it! I arrived ready to clean and carry. The attic is on the third floor (no elevator), so lots of up and down those stairs. Here is the thing though-I am the youngest of the old at work. A nice distinction, but not when it comes to hauling!! The graphic artist is 30, but she was relegated to cleaning out the "still life" prop closet. Truly, something that I would not be qualified to do-having not painted a still life since 1969! And speaking of 1969-don't we always!! We had a reception last week (see, it has been very busy at the Art Center, which is why I am STILL so behind in everything!!!), for all the school art teachers and faculty. It was a lovely reception and fun to put some faces with emails. However, the most thrilling thing was that my Art Teacher from 7th and 8th grade was there! Mrs. Bougeois! She looks the same! She has to be pushing early 70's!! I was so shocked!! I told her that I stare at my "Giraffe" art project every day!! It is a lovely design on burlap, of a hand-stitched giraffe, and I was so clever that I used different stitches and colors for the spots. I kept everything in "safari" colors, except for a red mouth, that looks as if the giraffe is smiling!!! Patsy and Charles had foresight to have this lovely piece framed and it has managed to stay with MOI all these years! I am thinking about bringing in to the office! It might look nice on my wall there!! Of course, in describing this piece to Mrs. Bougeois, it met with a blank stare, but she did at least acknowledge that she was thrilled that I had stopped to chat!! Then, she proceeded to tell MOI that she and her husband had spent so many hours putting together notebooks of slides and pictures of exhibitions at the Art Center in the 60's and 70's (this was before the Big Attic Day). I smiled and told her that I was 99% certain that those boxes of notebooks were STILL IN THE ATTIC! She seemed relieved!!!

I was assigned, "Hauling Duty," since A. I was the youngest of the old. B. I don't have back or knee problems (was thinking of pulling that arthritic toe routine) and C. I have the ability to work and actually FINISH the job!! Everyone pitched in during the first few hours…Out went lots of STUFF…. I felt like I was on one of those Reality TV shows where they clean up the clutter. MEANWHILE….I STILL haven't been able to get through all the boxes that I inherited when I took over the job…so, my office still looks like a Tornado hit it!! And with several big deadlines approaching July 1st….not sure it is going to get organized in the near future!! So up and down I went…hour after hour….several of the "older" folks dropped out. I noticed one staff member sneaking back into her office to do emails. We really were making progress. Maybe there really is something to the Dumpster for Day thing! It does force you to make quick decisions and no going back!! Plus, it really does take it out of you-so no desire to do it for more than a full day!! We finally created a path in the attic. AND LO AND BEHOLD….the Christmas lights appeared…then several more trips, the Coat Racks..then…the Holy Grail…Not One, but TWO tents! HOORAY!! But, still more nooks and crannies…I started pulling out boxes and boxes of spot lights! I guess someone FORGOT that they were up there. They are always burning out and cost $$$. Who knew that spot lights could be so expensive??!! Each gallery has 10-15 in them and they are motion sensors, but still burn out quickly. In all, 10 boxes of lights! This paid for the dumpster!!

And PHEW, at least they aren't going to ask MOI to find a grant to pay for the lights!! "Paula, We NEED LIGHTS!!"

Although, fun to find the lights…still not really the "treasure" I was searching for! I have to still make budget by year end, August 31st, so looking for something to sell on Ebay, really would be fun!! And as you can imagine, by this time, it is MOI alone in the attic thinking I was going to have an Asthma attack from all the dust and that I really should be doing the same thing in my own home!! I was going through some old picture frames and there it was….an original by one of our faculty members, who has passed away, but was a well-known artist. Unfortunately, there had been some damage to the canvas…but, STILL! I went running down the stairs to tell my boss! Since he had become involved in something else..VERY IMPORTANT….several hours ago and had stopped the "hauling" effort-although, he was very appreciative of my efforts!! It was quite a find! He thinks we can repair the damage and we are going to contact some of the artist's past students to see of their interest!! STAY TUNED!!!!!

Of course, last week was one of those…where you can't find anything..because you can't REMEMBER where you last had it…..I lost and found my cell phone several times…But, what I truly find amazing is that I heard a Bee Gees song and knew all the words!!!!!

Dear friend (well, I feel like she is a friend), Charla Krupp, author of How Not to Look Old fame, writes a fashion article for More Magazine. She replaced Kim Goss, of whatever those books were in the 90's that told you how to dress and do lots of things…see…can't remember the name, mentioned in her last article about "Business Women" wearing nude hose. Of course, as a FORMER nude hose wearer-this piqued my interest. Charla writes, "Going bare-legged in summer has been the rule in the fashion world for years. We've nixed the pantyhose, but made sure our naked legs looked good using leg sprays and self-tanners. In offices around the country, though, a lot of women still wear nude hose even on the hottest days. This I discovered, isn't always because of a corporate dress code; sometimes it just makes women physically comfortable." She goes on to state that senior executive women feel nude hose makes them look more polished and that you will be taken more seriously. Be still my heart!! Here we go again!! Haven't we been able to make strides in the business world that takes us for what we are, not what we WEAR!!! Oh my! I can see there is still work to be done!! Here is my challenge…..I have to go in front of the State of Illinois Art Council on Tuesday to answer any questions about our big annual grant (YIKES…I had better find the copy of the GRANT!)…I was planning on wearing a suit, of course, but should I or shouldn't I wear panty hose!! Email MOI you opinions! You can vote YEAH! or NAY! in the subject line!! Stay tuned next week for results!!

All that treasure hunting led MOI to shopping!! So busy, so spent most of my time ONLINE!

Michael Stars has some great new styles for summer. I bought a belted vest in silver-very Fab, plus lots of great t-shirts in fun colors! They seem to hold up the best and still remain fitted, after many washing!!!

Friend Shawna let me know about sales on handbags at:

http://www.mzwallace.com/

Fab Selection!!!

Check out the shoes on sale at Barneys: http://www.barneys.com/Sale

www.Vivre.com was having a mid-week sale on some of their items, check it out!!!

For you sport gals: www.skirtsports.com has some FAB skirts/shorts combos that you can RUN in!! LOVE THEM!!!

Fun Jewelry at www.winknyc.com Go to the jewelry page-it is a bit young, but nice earrings and a cool starfish cuff!!!!

Fabulous necklaces at www.bananarepublic.com look for ones that have wood in them and also a geometric design!

ArtWear t-shirts from www.crystalrock.com They are fitted and longer (a plus!). A bit pricey at $143, but Hey, Madonna wears them!! I ordered the Geisha one!!!

And how did we LIVE before this website: richrocksnyc.com What could be better than Rich Rocks!! So many FAB pieces to choose from..o.k., so they use crystals, CZ's and gold-plating…but, a whole lot of style for not so many $$$! Love the 3-tone hanging disc earrings for $90! A great pair to wear with EVERYTHING!!!!

And Nars cosmetics, another great lip gloss (I hope you all have that Orgasm already), this one is Supervixen!! Double FAB!

Happy Shopping, Cleaning and having FUN!

Love, P