Latest Obsession: Black Nail Polish

Black nail polish, it's been popular for ages but I've never worn it before that is until now. I just got an amazing manicure and instead of going for my usual color I decided to go with something different. At first it was a little weird to see such a bold color on my hands but now it makes me wonder what took so long for me to try this.

Has Cooking Become Too Complicated (and competitive)?

I know it's definitely more creative but why does it seem like you have to be a Master Chef to even figure out some recipes. The other day, I watched a cooking segment from the talk show Steven and Chris. It featured the self proclaimed Messy Baker Charmian Christie who feels that food or cooking doesn't have to be perfect to enjoy it. She says it's okay to make a mess in the kitchen or to have a slightly lopsided cake. It's all about having fun while you cook.

I think it's cool that cooking and food has become this huge thing especially with social media but I just wish it wasn't so complex and competitive. Now it seems like simple meals = boring compared to what's currently out there. With foodies fueling this food explosion, restaurants (including food trucks) are nearly competing with each other to be the best there is.

Even some of the dinner parties I have attended feels like the host is trying to out do what someone else has done. Why? Isn't the whole point to invite friends or your guests over to have fun and enjoy the meal.

Is anyone else tired of seeing all of those competition cooking shows? For a while there, it seems that was the only type of program that The Food Network was showing. It makes me wonder if they finally started to listen to all of those viewer complaints. Just look at their line-up there are more cooking shows instead of competitive shows.

As a foodie, I love to eat but also enjoy cooking even though I'm still a novice. This is a great time to be a foodie but I'm not going to get too caught up in it.

The Ancient Acropolis Is Crumbling, Experts Warn

I have always wanted to go and see the Parthenon but with the Acropolis in need of repair I wonder how long before (money is found for repairs) will it be before the Parthenon is in danger?
 ------

by Sky News

The stark advisory follows a report by a team of engineers who determined this week that a part of the flat-topped rock on which the ancient Parthenon sits, is starting to give way, threatening the stability of the landmark monument, the state news agency ANA reported.

The 2,500-year-old Parthenon, built at the height of Athens' ancient glory, is a marble temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, patron of the city.

It is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece and revered as an enduring symbol of democracy and Western civilization.

News of the Acropolis' decay and the threat it poses to the Parthenon has sent shock waves across the country.

It also underscores how vulnerable the country's national treasures have become throughout four years of brutal budget cuts during Greece's fiscal crisis.

On Wednesday, after an urgent meeting of the Central Archaeological Council, experts determined "instability over quite a wide area", following a landslide in early January.

The boulder "of considerable size" tumbled from the south side, rolling down to the entrance of the most visited site in the Greek capital.

Senior culture ministry officials say they are working to control the decaying side although they have refused to comment on whether urgent funding will be available to prevent any further decay.
"Much of the decay has been caused by drainage pipes stemming from the old Acropolis museum, situated on the rock also," said the culture ministry's Lena Mendoni.

"We have already begun studying the damage to ring fence and repair it," she told local media.
The landmark archaeological site remains open at present with hundreds of tourists daily visiting the monument.

I'm Back to Posting Again.

After taking a break for a while I realized I still wanted to write from this blog. So, I updated the site and now I'm back.

Since I have my other site which is mostly about books, I figured I needed somewhere else to post some of the other multitude of things I think about.

Expect a new post really soon.

Bye for now.

Nesting: Retro Furniture

 

Wicker Disk Chair $320.00 (sale) PBteen



 

I love watching old TV shows like Green Acres, The Patty Duke Show, Charlie's Angels, Wonder Woman etc, not just because they're funny and the ladies have amazing clothes but because the retro furniture is just so chic. In the background I can see circle chairs, glamorous vanities and tufted sofa. The furnishings on those old shows are just as important as the actors at least to me. 

 

Press Release: PEOPLE StyleWatch: September 2012 Issue

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2012 -- It's the September issue of PEOPLE StyleWatch and it's our biggest issue ever! Gracing the cover is the fresh and stylish, Emma Stone. Dressed up or down, the star of The Amazing Spider-Man is always in fashion.

Her stylist Petra Flannery dishes on some of Stone's top outfits. "Emma likes to try unexpected pieces," says Flannery of the star's red carpet style. "Confidence is the key to pulling them off." As for Stone's street style, Flannery tells StyleWatch, "Emma says she's most comfortable in jeans and a T-shirt." For much more on Stone's different looks and where you kind find similar looks, for less, check out the September issue!

10 Fall Must-Haves! Get ready to wow in the hottest trends of the season – sparkle in brocade, glossy patent leather and so much more.

1. Hunter Green: This rich color makes a statement on clothing, shoes and bags.

2. Ankle-Strap Heels: Updated with pointy toes, this leg-lengthening style is having a major moment. 

3. Military Details: Embossed buttons, epaulets and sharp tailoring are everywhere.

4. Trumpet Hems: The flouncy shape is a fun twist on spring's peplum trend.

5. Dome Bags: Rounded top-handle carryalls are sophisticated and functional.

6. Brocade: This ornate fabric is perfect for dressing up, but on more casual pieces or paired with jeans and flats, it's chic and unexpected.

7. Jeweled Necklaces: These dramatic styles punch up any outfit, day or night.

8. Shift Dresses: In graphic patterns, bright colors and more, this loose silhouette is both stylish and easy to wear.

9. Voluminous Coats: Wear these trendy styles anytime – opt for fitted clothes to create a cool contrast.

10. Patent Leather: Try just a hint on pumps or a shirt collar, or go all out in a head-turning piece of clothing.  
                                                                                    
5 Fall Beauty Trends: These of-the-moment looks are both fresh and dramatic! StyleWatch shows you how to make them work.

1. Rosy Cheeks: Flirty colors are incredibly feminine and wake up every skin tone.

2. Wine-Red Lips: A dark tone is an edgy yet sophisticated way to wear red.

3. Earthy Eye Shadows: Tan, brown and bronze are super versatile – subtle enough for day, dramatic for a night out.

4. Bold Eyeliner: Black liner instantly glams up eyes – plus, it's practically goof-proof.

5. Dark Blue Nails: Chic shades of sapphire and navy modernize your manicure.

PLUS 4 More We Love! Blue Eye Makeup; Burgundy Nails; Bright-Red Lipstick; Radiant Skin.  

Shop YOUR Style: Whether your look is cool, classic or glam, we have the perfect new trend for you to try.

1. Leather & Lace (Cool): Tough but romantic, this mix is totally modern. Combine sleek dresses, delicate tops, bold accessories and more for an edgy-pretty contrast.

2. Equestrian (Classic): This relaxed yet polished look is everywhere for fall. Go for timeless dresses, silky shirts, riding boots and more in a neutral palette with rich details.

3. Embellishment (Glam): Sparkly, oversize adornments feel bold and fashion-forward. Choose a single standout piece, from an eye-catching top to a glitzy skirt, and wear it day or night. 

People StyleWatch is dedicated to making fashion and beauty trends accessible, affordable and fun. First launched as a special newsstand extension of PEOPLE in 2002.

People StyleWatch is published 11 times a year, with a guaranteed circulation of 800,000 and reaches 5.6 million readers each month. PeopleStyleWatch.com is the #1 style magazine website reaching 3 million unique visitors and averaging 150 million pageviews each month with content that is refreshed throughout the day. Every day on PeopleStyleWatch.com you'll see the latest looks from the red carpet and get the latest scoop on trends, as well as tips on fashion, beauty and shopping.

Every Girl Needs...A Great Tote Bag

Aiden Bag $ 79.50 Banana Republic

How can you not love a tote bag? I love that you can carry your stuff without looking frumpy. You can use it for practically everything - from work to school, shopping to hanging out on the beach and more. I love carry my tote when I go shopping I don't have to worry about those plastic bags.

Wish List Wednesday: Vanity, Vengeance & A Weekend in Vegas

A book I have added to my wish list is "Vanity, Vengeance, & A Weekend in Vegas" by Kyra Davis. This is the sixth book in the Sophie Katz mystery series and from reading the description, I just had to add it to my wish list and it just seems like it will be another fun read.

Book description:

Sophie Katz, bestselling mystery writer and amateur sleuth, has just discovered that Anatoly, her sexy Russian P.I boyfriend of six years is actually married to the daughter of a Russian mafia boss. Devastated by his betrayal, Sophie banishes him from their beautiful San Francisco Victorian home.

Desperate to distract their friend and pull her out of her depression, Dena and Marcus spirit Sophie away to Vegas for a “fun filled weekend” at a Sex Toy Trade Show. But bigger trouble awaits in Vegas. Anatoly is there; his beautiful Russian wife is there; and so is a dead body stuffed into a closet. And to make matters worse someone has gone out of their way to implicate Sophie in the murder. Sophie’s completely over her head and when a mysterious man offers her help she’s tempted to take it. But who is he and whose side is he on? It's also clear that whoever the bad guy is he would have no problem killing Anatoly, and although she may want to kill him herself, no one else is going to hurt Sophie's man.

My DVD Must Have

I am so excited and I can't wait until I can go and buy these 3 DVD: Underworld Awakening, Red Tails and The Woman in Black.

Last week I couldn't find Underworld anywhere, it was sold out. So hopefully, there will be plenty this Tuesday.

Is DC Comics using Homosexuality As Another Money Making Gimmick?

Why does it seem like every time DC Comics makes an announcement it screams gimmick? Remember Wonder Woman being the daughter of Zeus. This current announcement that they are planning on changing the sexual connotation of one of their prominent characters just makes me think they are cooking up another money making gimmick.

It just doesn't seem sincere that DC Comics is actively trying to attract gay and lesbian readers because if they truly were they would be promoting the characters that they already have such as Batwoman and Bunker (he is a member of the new 52 Teen Titans) or creating more new original characters.

I guess we will have to wait and see how DC Comics handles this new change to their comic books and if it's a really change and not a money making gimmick.

Book Review for: A Discovery of Witches

Rating: 2 1/2 stars

The Bad:

What can I say about "A Discovery of Witches" by Deborah Harkness, I found it to be quite boring. This book received so much hype and great reviews, yet it turned out to be boring. I thought the plot of this nearly 600 page book was supposed to be about trying to find a magical book, Ashmole 525. This book was supposed to be so special that it had all of these various creatures (witches, vampires and daemons) wanting to get their hands on it. But somehow Diana Bishop (a witch) was able to locate it when no one else has been able to in years.

A Discovery of Witches started out very interesting like a supernatural mystery then it turned into a tired and boring romance novel. The author just seemed to have given up on the whole point of the magical book. What also annoyed me was how pathetic and uninteresting Diana was. She was a total damsel-in-distress through the majority of the book and had to be constantly saved by her vampire love interest Matthew Clairmont. She couldn't do anything without him telling her what to do, and I mean nothing, he told when to sleep, when to eat, etc.

There is nothing interesting about a female character that has no problem being dominated and the romance was way too co-dependant. Diana's life went from her being a respected professor to only being about Matthew. Her life prior to meeting Matthew no longer seemed important to her.

This book seriously needed to be edited, there seemed to be too many pages with nothing happening or it just felt repetitive such as: Diana was sleeping, Diana was waiting for Matthew, Diana was drinking tea and much more. I love books that are descriptive but I felt like this book went over board with too details, she described how: the wine smelled and tasted, the smell/scent of various characters, the various furnishing various homes, etc.

The last problem I had with this book was the ending, it  was very disappointing. There was no conclusion it felt unresolved. I understand this book is the first in a series but I have read other book series that had a solid end yet transitioned perfectly into the next.

The Good:

Unfortunately, there is not a lot of good things about this book but here are a few. First, I checked this out from the library. Second, I like the characters: Diana's aunt Sarah, Matthew's son Marcus and Diana's family house. Yes, the house was a character. It had more life in it than Diana. Third, I liked the world that the author was trying to create and I did like some of the details that she provided.

I'm not sure I want to read the second book in the series because I was so disappointed with the first. I will have to see.

Two Monday Shows I Must See

Now that Mike & Molly is over for the season the only shows I watch on Monday are: Eureka and Motorcity.


Motorcity 9:00pm EST Disney XD



Motorcity is new cartoon series that airs on Disney XD. It's a futuristic take on the city of Detroit. The five main characters try to help protect Motorcity from an evil business man.


Eureka 9:00pm EST SCI-FI channel

This is Eureka's last season and so far each episode is as good as the series has always been. This is one of those shows where you wonder how it could possible get cancelled. It's smart and funny.

Comic Books on my To Read List

I have been reading a lot of the DC Comics New 52 but a few comics that I really want to read are:

1. Smallville #1




I didn't buy any of the on-line copies, I wanted to wait until it came out in print. I hope it's a good read. The TV show was kind of hit or miss, but I think they can do more with a comic book than a live action show.



2. Batman Beyond Unlimited #2 and #3





I read the first issue and I really liked it because you get to see all the characters from the animated series Batman Beyond. The TV series was fun to watch as well as this comic. This one of the comics I really enjoy.

7 Cartoons Worth Watching

Who said cartoons are just for kids? Not me that's for sure. Here are a few really great cartoon worth watching:

The Legend of Korra  11:00am EST Saturday Nickelodeon



The Legend of Korra is a continuation of the series "Avatar The Last Air Bender". The show centers on Korra in her training to become the new Avatar. I really like this show. Korra is a great character, she's a little zany yet smart and capable.


Green Lantern: The Animated Series 10:00am EST Saturday Cartoon Network



The show focuses on the Green Lantern Hal Jordan and his various missions in space. This is a fun cartoon and it's a great way to introduces the characters to those not familiar with the character. Plus, it's so much better than that live action movie with Ryan Renolds.

Young Justice Invasion 10:30am EST Saturday Cartoon Network



This is the second season of the Young Justice series that focuses on superhero sidekicks like Robin, Wonder Girl, Batgirl, Miss Martian, Superboy etc. The second season takes place 5 years in the future from the first season. I don't believe you have to watch the first season to enjoy the second.


Ultimate Spider-Man 11:00am EST Sunday Disney XD




The show is about a young Peter Parker aka Spider-Man trying to train to become one of the greatest superheroes and also trying to work with another group of young superheroes. Also included are: Mary-Jane Watson and Harry Osborne. This show is so funny as well as have great action.


Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes 11:37am EST Sunday Disney XD




This is the second season of the cartoon series and it's even better than the first centering on an upcoming alien invasion. On the Avengers team is: Iron Man, Captain America, Ant Man, Wasp, The Black Panther, Hawkeye, Thor and The Hulk.


Transformers Rescue Bots 9:30am EST Saturday HUB




I like the Transformers Rescue Bots because it's a kid friendly version but it's fun for anyone to watch. The show is about four Autobots working with human companions to protect the city.
Doc McStuffins Weekdays 10:00am EST Disney



Doc McStuffins is about a little girl who repairs injured toys and it's a cute show for little kids as well as for anyone who wants to watch an adorable little show.

Bad News for Helena Bertinelli Fans

In my previous post, "Good News for Huntress Fans", I wrote about the upcoming Huntress series (which I couldn't wait to read). I was under the impression that DC was giving Helena Bertinelli (since that's who they were advertising it as) a 6-part mini series before bringing her back to the Birds of Prey. Well, DC decided to basically switch characters on readers, instead of Bertinelli's Huntress we are now getting Helena Wayne (the daughter of Batman and Catwoman from an alternate Earth) who has just been pretending to be Bertinelli.

Many fans of the Bertinelli's Huntress were upset and have accused DC Comics of using a Bait and Switch with their favorite character. While fans of the Wayne version of Huntress are happy that the character is back since she hasn't been seen in comics in over 20 years.

As a fan of Helena Bertinelli, I feel like this is just another gimick for DC to get more sales. Bertinelli's Huntress was a great character. I'm sorry to see the character go, just because she no longer fit into the new DC Comics.

Is The New DC Comics Promoting Sexism? or Simply Don't Understand Women?

By C. Brooks
Style and Focus Lifestyle PR

The reboot was supposed to make reading the comics more assessable but so far they have been doing a pretty good job of offending old and new readers. As a long time DC comic reader, I have noticed a lot of issues with the new 52:

1. Lois Lane's diminished role:

I feel like Lois has lost many of her characteristics and personality traits that have made her popular. For instance, she has lost her go-getter attitude and now with her job promotion she's no longer a reporter. She no longer goes out there trying to find the truth and doing whatever it takes to get to the truth for her article. Now she just sits behind her desk as an executive. It's like DC said lets just get the little lady out of the way. But with her personality, can you really see her being happy sitting back while others get to do all the work. So far, I have only read the first two issues (the 3rd is out next week) and hopefully the Lois Lane that fans love will make a comeback.


2. Wonder Woman being depowered and the daughter of Zeus:

Zeus being the father of Wonder Woman, feels like another money making gimmick of DC to get more sales. I liked her old origin with her being made from clay. Queen Hippolyta wanted a child, she sculpted her from clay and the gods blessed her with Diana. Wonder Woman's origin was her own, it's what made her special. According to DC's co-publisher Jim Lee, by "making her a god actually makes her more human, more relatable”.

To me it just makes her into another child of Zeus (meaning nothing special). Now she's just like Hercules. Unless, DC forgot, they already did this with Wonder Girl (Cassandra Sandmark, unless they've changed her origin as well).

Has anyone noticed how weak or depowered Wonder Woman is in the new books compared to how powerful she was before the reboot. Maybe they are working up to getting her to her full powers or it will just be another new change for her.


3. Sexy or Sleazy? Starfire, Catwoman or Voodoo

A) Starfire:

They seem to have it in their heads that Starfire's only real purpose is to be eye candy for the "Red Hood and The Outlaws" book. What happened to Starfire? Not to mention what happened to Roy? They turned him into a complete Jerk. Anyway back to Starfire, she is just this emotionless pin-up girl who Jason and Roy seem to have no problem passing around. Where's that tough, kick-ass girl who doesn't take any crap but still has emotions? How did she end up with those two losers? Maybe the writers will get around to answering those questions but for now they are just content to have Kory pose and show off her body.


B) Catwoman:

Catwoman has always been a sexy character. She owns her sexuality but she was smart and tough and could hold her own while the current rebooted Catwoman just seems to be only about sex and revenge (and making stupid mistakes). The old Catwoman was mysterious, sneaky and yes sexy but not constantly thrown in the readers face. Like with Starfire, they just seem to enjoy showing off Selina's body instead of giving the reading a great character to like.

The first issue was just bad and was truly aimed at the fanboys who just want to see Catwoman in certain poses. The second issue was much better but still has a lot of work to go to make it something for some of us fangirls to enjoy as well.

I hope the comic will get better because Catwoman is a great character.


C) Voodoo:

Okay, I get it she's a stripper. The whole 1st issue was focused on her working the strip club. Again, I get it she's a stripper but was there anything else I was suppose to know about her. The second issue at least focused more on her and on the people who are searching for her. I felt like it was still lacking something. Aside from the first book, I think Voodoo will get better and much more interesting. It kind of reminds me of the X-Files but apparently with T & A.

All three are practically T & A shows but Starfire in the "Red Hood and the Outlaws" has the be the worst because at least with Catwoman and Voodoo you see who the characters are instead of just being pin-up girls. Starfire is just an empty shell with nothing of value besides her body that she continues to only show.


4. The lack of female writers:

With having a small percentage of female writers you don't get a good balance between the male and female mindset. What we get is the male writers view of how they see women. Yes, we are sexual beings but that is not all that we are. We are more than just our boobs and butt. However, if you were to browse through most of the new 52 you would think that's how a majority of the women in the DC comics are portrayed. This makes it pretty clear that they don't know women other than the fantasies that they create. Where is the diversity that DC said they were striving for?


5. Poorly executed characters:

Prior to the reboot, the Birds of Prey characters (Black Canary, Huntress and Oracle were smart, funny, strong capable women and not to mention cool). However, the new BoP is a bit dull and lacking something. Black Canary with Katana and Starling seem like it would be interesting but for now it's not. At least the artwork isn't as bad as some of the other books. I'm holding out hope that this will get better especially with Huntress, the new Batgirl and Poison Ivy joining the team later on.

Another poorly executed character is Harley Quinn in the new "Suicide Squad" it's bad enough her design is horrible - with the hair and the outfit - but the character was no fun. Harley Quinn was known for being a lovable lunatic. That's not the only female character that's different in the SS. Have you seen the younger, thinner Amanda Waller. I guess they wanted her to look like all the other women in comics.



To answer my title questions, Is the New DC Comics Promoting Sexism? or Simply Don't Understand Women? Yes on both counts. I think DC is giving what they think the guys want (half naked women posing just for them) and truly not understanding what their female readers want. Perhaps, I expected too much from the reboot. I actually thought DC really was trying to improve but so far it kind of seems like they have taken a step back at least with some of the female characters.

Latest Obsession: Sweater Dresses

Frenchi Ribbed Trim Sweater Dress $48.00 Nordstrom

I just absolutely love Sweater Dresses. What's not to love? They're so comfortable and cozy but still look great. It's just a no worry fashion choice.


Turtleneck Sweater Dress $79.50 Victoria's Secret

Nightwing: Batman Arkham City Trailer

I think Batman Arkham City has to be one of the best games out there. Truth be told I was more excited for this game than I am for the third Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises". This game has so many different characters within the Batman world, that I can't see how you could ever get bored.

Happy Halloween!!!

Eureka Cancelled!!! I Can't Believe It.

I can't believe I didn't know about this. Eureka will return with it's 5th season and finale season.

Why does it seem like all the good shows get cancelled? What's going to be left on TV to watch? Reality shows and teen dramas, in which I am not a fan of either. Funny intelligent shows are so hard to find.

Oh well, I will just have to wait for the last season and just enjoy it.