Why We Need Free Public Libraries More Than Ever - The Atlantic

My son forwarded this to me. I had read it on the listserv, but we are all librarians. When a non-librarian pointed it out to me, I know it is doubly important. Sooooo, hope you all read this and take it to heart.

"And national surveys show that the public considers public libraries the most effectively run of all municipal services."


Why We Need Free Public Libraries More Than Ever - The Atlantic

Fun Friday--Can Nature Make You Healthy

My favorite place to be is enjoying the outside. It is peaceful and relaxing. So where is your nature spot? Some people crave the water, others love the garden. Here are some studies that show what they can do.

Gardens Lift Depression
British scientists divided a group of individuals. Half walked around a local garden and the other half around the mall. Mall walkers felt more tense and depressed where 71% of those in the garden said they felt less stressed, depressed and fatigued. Green can stimulate the senses and provide an escape.

Feeling Anxious, Head to Open Water
I know people who crave being near the water. A Swedish study showed that even hearing water can relieve stress. Gazing at lakes and oceans reduces blood pressure and heart rate.

Need an Immune Boost--visit a forest
Japanese researchers have found that spending time near trees increases the white blood cell count by 50 per cent. These are your disease fighting cells. Japan has gone as far as to encourage forest bathing for its theraputic benefits.

Need to Lose Weight? Go to the Mountains
In Germany scientists brought overweight individuals to an altitude of 8700 feet. They were allowed to eat whatever they wanted, but needed to not exercise for a week. Results were they ate 734 fewer calories and burned 268 more ever day. Evidentally high altitudes encourage leptin, a hormone in your body that increases metabolism and makes you feel less hungry.

Want to Scream--visit a Nature Preserve
The University of California found that wildlife lessoned irritability and agression. A combination of vegetation and animal life is viewed as calming.

Contest and Giveaway Thursday

We all love the thought of a bargain, but how about a windfall. Entering only takes a few minutes--what do you have to lose?


Win $50,000 http://www.americanfamily.com/sweepstakes?tcode=AF-SEC-8010004143

Win a $500 Macy's gift card and help Reading is Fundamental http://www.rif.org/us/get-involved/bebooksmart.htm?gclid=CKm44va0paoCFQp75Qodv0xAZQ

Win a railway adventure through the Canadian Rockies. Go to WoolrichAdventures.com

Enjoy!

Celebrity Wednesday--Gladys Knight

Another timeless beauty shares a smidge of her beauty secrets--basically a common sense approach. Glady states: I don’t have any regimen. I try to eat right, and I don’t succeed at that all the time. I absolutely love tennis, and if I could play every day, I would. I’ve played with Serena, Venus, Martina, Billie Jean…

Unexpected Jewelry

I always love fun jewelry. It doesn't have to be vintage or imitation or real diamonds. Sometimes a serious outfit, such as a little black dress, or white capris and tank can become fun with a piece of funky jewelry. Soooooo, don't act your age, enjoy this flirty button bracelet. It will be admired by your grandchildren and make you feel young.
http://www.unexpectedboutique.co.uk/bracelets/button-bracelet-stretch-floral-print.php

Save, Save, Save

I just got this email and thought it was worth passing on. Many places only give the discounts if asked, so go for it. Take advantage of your age!!

119 Senior Citizen Discounts




Gone are the days of your grandmother's "early bird special" at the local
diner. As our baby boomers reach retirement age, hundreds of retailers are
featuring new and improved discounts exclusively for the 60 and older crowd.
We have composed a list of senior savings that will help you keep more cash
in your pocket. Whoever said getting older was a bad thing, obviously didn't
know about these fantastic senior discounts!

Restaurants
* Applebee's: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
* Arby http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1361 's: 10% off (55+)
* Ben & Jerry's: 10% off (60+)
* Bennigan's: discount varies by location
* Bob's Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
* Boston Market http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1286 : 10% off (65+)
* Burger King: 10% off (60+)
* Captain D's Seafood: discount varies on location (62+)
* Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
* Chili's: 10% off (55+)
* CiCi's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
* Culver's: 10% off (60+)
* Denny http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1470 's: 10% off, 20% off for
AARP members (55+)
* Dunkin' Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
* Einstein http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1336 's Bagels: 10% off
baker's dozen of bagels (60+)
* Fuddrucker's: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
* Gatti's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
* Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
* Hardee http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1328 's: $0.33 beverages
everyday (65+)
* IHOP: 10% off (55+)
* Jack in the Box http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1344 : up to 20% off (55+)
* KFC http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1218 : free small drink with any
meal (55+)
* Krispy Kreme http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1016 : 10% off (50+)
* Long John Silver's: various discounts at participating locations (55+)
* McDonald http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1525 's: discounts on coffee
everyday (55+)
* Mrs. Fields http://bradsdeals..com/go/m/146 : 10% off at
participating locations (60+)
* Shoney's: 10% off
* Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
* Steak 'n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
* Subway: 10% off (60+)
* Sweet Tomatoes 10% off (62+)
* Taco Bell: 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
* TCBY: 10% off (55+)
* Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
* Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
* Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
* Wendy's: 10% off (55+)
* White Castle http://bradsdeals.com/go/m/1415 10% off (62+)

Retail and Apparel

* Banana Republic : 10% off (50+)
* Bealls : 20% off first Tuesday of
each month (50+)
* Belk's: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
* Big Lots : 10% off
* Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15%
off on senior discount days (55+)
* C.J. Banks : 10% off every
Wednesday (60+)
* Clarks: 10% off (62+)
* Dress Barn : 10% off (55+)
* Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
* Hallmark : 10% off one day a week
(date varies by location)
* Kmart : 20% off (50+)
* Kohl 's: 15% off (60+)
* Modell 's Sporting Goods: 10% off
* Rite Aid : 10% off on Tuesdays &
10% off prescriptions
* Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
* The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
* Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every
month (55+)

Grocery
* Albertson's: 10% off first Wednesday of each month (55+)
* American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday (50+)
* Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
* DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
* Food Lion: 6% off every Monday (60+)
* Fry's Supermarket: free Fry's VIP Club Membership & 10% off every
Monday (55+)
* Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
* Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
* Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
* Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
* Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
* Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
* The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday (50+)
* Publix: 5% off every Wednesday (55+)
* Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
* Uncle Guiseppe's Marketplace: 5% off (62+)

Travel
* Alaska Airlines : 10% off (65+)
* Alamo : up to 25% off for AARP members
* American Airlines: various discounts for 65and up
(call before booking for discount)
* Amtrak : 15% off (62+)
* Avis : up to 25% off for AARP members
* Best Western : 10% off (55+)
* Budget Rental Cars: 10% off; up to 20% off for
AARP members (50+)
* Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
* Clarion : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Comfort Inn : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Comfort Suites : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents
Club & special fares for select destinations
* Dollar Rent-A-Car : 10% off (50+)
* Econo Lodge : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for
AARP members
* Greyhound: 5% off (62+)
* Hampton Inns & Suites: 10% off when booked 72 hours in advance
* Hertz : up t0 25% off for AARP
members
* Holiday Inn : 10%-30% off depending
on location (62+)
* Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
* InterContinental Hotels Group:
various discounts at all hotels (65+)
* Mainstay Suites : 10% off with
Mature Traveler's Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
* Marriott Hotels : 15% off (62+)
* Motel 6 : 10% off (60+)
* Myrtle Beach Resort: 10% off (55+)
* National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
* Quality Inn : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Rodeway Inn : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Sleep Inn : 20%-30% off (60+)
* Southwest Airlines: various discounts for
ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
* Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50 and up
* United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before
booking for discount)
* U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before
booking for discount)
Activities & Entertainment
* AMC Theaters : up to 30% off (55+)
* Bally Total Fitness: up to $100
off memberships (62+)
* Busch Gardens Tampa: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
* Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
* Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
* U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services
including camping (62+)
* Regal Cinemas: 30% off
* Ripley's Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket (55+)
* SeaWorld Orlando: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
Cell Phone Discounts
* AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $29.99/month (65+)
* Jitterbug : $10/month cell phone service (50+)
* Verizon http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/store/controlleritem=planFirst&action
http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/store/controller?item=planFirst&action
=viewPlanDisplay&typeId=1&catId=1029&planId=40826
Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+)
*Check out our Secret http://www.bradsdeals.com/blog/2011/04/19/cell-phone-discounts/
Cell Phone Discounts to view all cell phone discounts available to you!

Miscellaneous
* Great Clips: $3 off haircuts (60+)
* Super Cuts: $2 off haircuts (60+)

Since many senior discounts are not advertised to the public, our advice to
men and women over 55 is to ALWAYS ask a sales associate if that store
provides a senior discount. That way, you can be sure to get the most bang
for you buck

Fun Friday-Gardening--For Peace of Mind

One of my favorite activities is to be out in the garden, whether it is working to rearrange, plant or maintain, it always gives me pleasure. One of my favorite trips is to visit botanical gardens for new plant or arrangement ideas.

Gardening teaches patience. It takes a lot of work to nurture a small plant into a gorgeous bloom. I am always amazed, when I stroll around my garden and find new flowers.

Did you know that gardening has many physical benefits. It lowers your risk of diabetes. It is equal to aerobics and uses all kinds of different muscle groups. Gardens are places that engage all our senses in a variety of ways. Simply spending time in an open space can do you wonders. When we nurture a garden, we increase our connection with nature and our sense of well-being. Exposure to a natural environment can help you relax.

Be smart about your plant choices. Insect pollinated rather than wind pollinated plants are best, because the pollen is larger and more difficult to inhale. Stay away from plants that smell great--a light scent is much better. Avoid the chrysanthemum family, goldenrod and pinks and sweet william. Daffodils, hyacinths and sweet peass have a heavy scent. Herbs are insect pollinated, so they are perfect.

Go out and enjoy the peace!!

But what happens when a stroll makes you miserable with sneezing and the sniffles?
Here are some ideas for allergy smart gardens.

Plan to garden at the best times. Plant in early spring when pollen is at a minimum.
When the pollen count is high, garden in the late morning or afternoon, when pollen has taken flight higher up.

Don't use hedges,

No Rewinds, No Rehearsals by Amy Hambidge

I have had the pleasure of inviting a local college student who used to work with me, and who is doing a wonderful Yoga program at my library, to be a guest blogger. She is wise beyond her years, focusing on health for your body and your mind and the joy of life.

When was the last time you took a walk for the heck of it? Not to walk off the guilt of the two brownies you ate in place of dinner or because the dog asked you to. A walk for the sake of movement- open air- sunshine- listening to the birds- looking at the wildflowers? If you can recall the last time you walked outside without music pouring into your ears or an ulterior motive of why you "should" walk, then you can stop reading and give yourself a pat on the back on the way out the door for your next meander.
For the rest of you: can you remember the last time you took the moment to really experience your life, not solely existing from one minute to the next?
We- you, your neighbor, your brother, and myself included- are preoccupied with to-do lists that include our places to go, what to eat or not, and activities we keep meaning to do to relax but put off. There is no fault in lists, but since when did the intentions of what we will do become more important than what we are doing? We will do this, and then we will do that. If only I was this, then I could do that. Someday when I'm who I want to be, I can do what I want. It can be a crazy mind game, creating the story that you are not yet quite perfect.
According to the brilliant Albert Einstein, “There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle.” On a walk around the block, there are no less than 100 miracles experience. From the magnificent coordination of your pumping lungs, to the rustle of the sassafras leaves in the light breeze that not only sounds incredible but leaves tingles on your skin, life is a miracle. Yet we cannot enjoy these pleasures when ruminating over that silly comment we made that may have been taken the wrong way, contemplating what's for dinner, or worrying about how you will get the kids to practice, empty the dishwasher, and attend your meeting all at 4:00. We stray away from the beauty of life when not present in our actions. This is one of the goals of a yoga or meditation practice- to become aware of one's body, but, more importantly, one's thoughts. Are they stuck in the events of an hour ago, or fast forwarding to events that may or may not happen? One cannot be truly happy if you are living life out of order, reliving or rehearsing in your mind. In reality, there's one take in a super short life, no rewinds and no rehearsals. If you are waiting for a better body/better hair cut/better job/better partner/better attitude that would make you a fit, clear skinned, bright-eyed and bushy tailed spunky goddess ready to take on the world, then you are missing out on the perfection of what makes you you at the moment.
Today, why not take a walk for the heck of it? Pay attention to the sun rays on your skin, the vibrant green of the trees, the intense expanse of the sky, the crunch of the earth under your feet (bonus for walking barefoot and feeling the earth under your feet!), the beautiful movement and sway of your hips as you take your time down the road... the list of what you can find when you stop thinking and simply live is endless and mind blowing. While you're at it, why not live as the fit, clear skinned, bright-eyed and bushy tailed spunky goddess ready to take on the world that you already are? Because when you are present in the moment, experiencing LIFE, you have no time to worry about becoming someone later; you are too busy being whatever you are NOW. And if you want to be a goddess, start now. No rewinds, no rehearsals.

Celebrity Wednesday--Jaclyn Smith's favorite beauty secrets

One of my favorite celebs who is over 60 is Jaclyn Smith. She has hardly changed since her Charlie's Angels days. She is still fresh and beautiful. One of her best assets is her hair. The bouncy layered cut is flattering for any age. Her touches of highlights among the chestnut color help disguise any grey or white strays.

To style your hair like Jaclyn Smith, mist dry hair and wrap 2-inch sections around a wide barrel curling iron in spiral formation. Part your hair down the middle and finger-style the curls rather than brushing them out. You can also achieve this look with small or medium size hot rollers, wrapped around 2-inch sections of hair and left in for 15 minutes or until cool.

According to Style.com Smith follows a simple plan for gorgeous skin and hair.

"I don't believe in making it too complicated. You don't need 1,000 bottles in your cabinet. I'm a believer in retinol for skin care," she says. "That constantly rejuvenates for me and takes the dead skin cells off. It also plumps. My husband is a doctor and he taught me that peptides that also are so good for your skin."

Her gorgeous mane is the result of a little TLC and a few kitchen fixes.

"I sleep in deep conditioner once a month and wash it off in the morning," she says. "On the other days, I use daily conditioner and comb my wet hair through just with my fingers.

"I'll even go into the kitchen and put a little deep conditioning olive oil or regular mayo on my hair," she says.

BEAUTY MOGUL

Smith isn't just known for her natural beauty, but for her beauty lines including her wigs and hair volumnizers.

"What's great is that they're made up of human hair now. I love the volumnizers and all the actresses out there use them," she says.

"Let's say you don't feel like washing your hair one day and it's not quite as full because you've allowed the nourishing oils to work their magic.

"I love to experiment with different colors to add highlights. You don't need to go to a salon, but add a different colored hair piece that is designed to give you highlights or lowlights."

She says the key to a good hairpiece is simple.

"We color the root line darker, which looks natural," she says. "You should never just be one color. That looks like…a wig."

Casual or Dressy-you choose

I just got the summer dress at TJ's for $24.99. It's so comfy! It's perfect for work or a casual evening out to dinner. The fabric is a stretchy cotton/polyester/spandex. When I bought it I thought it was a type of denim but when I tried it on, closer to a cotton poplin. The color, black, can look like a dark denim and you can dress it up or down. It is by Connected Apparel and has a luxurious leopard print "silk" lining at the neck. Check it out and have fun with it.

And for some flirty fun add these pink accessories and stand out anywhere.

Fun Friday--Really, You Used Rice??

We all know that a few grains of rice in your salt shaker keeps the salt
useable but what else can we do with it?

Wet phone, landline or cell? Dropped your phone in the pool or tub, take it apart and put all the pieces into a dish of uncooked rice. Leave it a few days and reassemble. The rice will absorb the moisture.

Ahh, soothe those aches. Put uncooked rice in a sock and knot the end. Heat in microwave for 30 seconds, and use it where ever it hurts. Or throw it in the freezer and use it as an icepack. Can't knot the ends? Use a rubberband.

Put it in an old vase with some dishsoap and scrub it clean.

Run it through your coffee grinder once a month to clean it out.

Make a animal toy by filling a container such as a pill bottle.

Prevent rust in metal objects by pouring a few grains in the bottom. Use it in your garden supplies to keep the tools rust free.

Contest and Giveaway Thursday

Visit Yuupon.com/WWMAG and travel for free
Roundtrip airfair to any Southwest vacation destination with four nights accomodations.

For all of our Library Lovers win a Motorola Xoom
Including a $250 gift card. womansworldmag.com

Or leave a comment on this blog with your email and win this
lovely gold makeup case.

Celebrity Wednesday--Goldie Hawn's Beauty Regime direct from her Makeup Artist

While searching for how Goldie Hawn treats age 65, I came across her makeup artists step by step regime. So if you want to know how she gets her gorgeous look read on!!


Creating the Perfect "do"

Goldie likes her hair poofy and loose looking, and to achieve this look I do the following:

1. Wash and condition. Wash hair thoroughly, and condition. Color treated hair like Goldie's does well with my Pure & Natural Soy Hydrating Shampoo (Lamas Botanicals), which revitalizes chemically altered, dry, weak or damaged hair.

2. Spray hair with heat protectant. After hair is gently towel dried (do not wrap hair up in towel, as this causes tangling), spray wet hair with a heat protectant. This will help to prevent blow-dried hair from being damaged. This will also make hair more pliable, and give it a less frizzy, more shiny/silky look. Pay special attention to ends, and I like to use just a smidgen of mousse at the top of the head to add body.

3. Set hair. Once hair is blown dry, I apply a touch of hair spray, and then set hair in large mesh rollers with clips -- not electric.

After all the hair is rolled, I net it, tie it, and then begin using the blower over each roller I've set, for about three minutes. The hair should then cool for another couple of minutes. The longer you wait, the better. Curling your hair like this will make it hold for a good four or five hours, which you really need when attending a long event like the Oscars or a wedding. The reason I use the mesh rollers for someone trying to achieve Goldie's look instead of the hot rollers is that hot rollers make the curls too tight and small. The mesh rollers are very large, which give the hair more volume and body, without making it look set. Goldie prefers her hair to have a soft appearance, and doesn't like to be oversprayed. You can brush the hair lightly (taking care not to brush out those hard fought curls!), or fluff with fingers after you remove rollers.

Picture Perfect Make-up

Goldie's skin is in great condition, she takes good care of it. Her skin is very smooth, and she has few wrinkles. While preparing her for the Oscars (which takes about four or five hours), I noted that she drinks a lot of water to keep herself hydrated, and avoids coffee, tea and wines, which tend to dehydrate.

To achieve Goldie's sunny Oscar look, I do the following:

1. Cleanse. Cleanse face thoroughly, I prefer to use my own Citrus-C Face and Body Wash with Vitamin C (Lamas Cosmeceuticals) which retexturizes the skin, and give all skin types a burst of fresh energy without causing irritation or dryness.

2. Moisturize. After cleansing, we begin to "prep" the face for the make-up. For someone with a tendency for dry skin, like Goldie, I saturate the face with a heavy moisturizer, letting it sit for a good hour. I created PRO-VITA C Vital Infusion Complex (Lamas Cosmeceuticals), which penetrates deep into the skin tissue, improving the skin's ability to regenerate healthy skin, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, with women like Goldie in mind.

3. Remove moisturizer and re-moisturize. Wipe moisturizer from face with a hot, damp cloth, as the heat makes the cream easier to remove.. Continue gently moving towel across face in a back and forth motion, constantly rinsing cloth. There always seems to be a residue left, because it does absorb into the skin's tissue. Once that is done, reapply a light-day moisturizer. I use PRO-VITA C Moisturizer SPF 15 (Lamas Cosmeceuticals). The light moisturizer is not removed. I let that sit for about five minutes. And before putting anything on or near the eyes, I gently massage some PRO-VITA C Eye Maintenance Gel (Lamas Cosmeceuticals) into the delicate tissues underneath and around them. This has the effect of lightening dark circles under the eyes, and helps reduce the visible signs of age spots.

4. Exfoliate Lips. Now this may sound unusual to you, but I think you will be shocked out how nice your lips will feel after you try this. Before applying any lipstick, I usually prep the lips with an alpha hydroxy exfoliater. This is an almost chalky creme that dries quickly on lips, is grainy, and sits on the lips for just a minute or two. Rub the lips to exfoliate as much dead skin as possible, and brush off any excess with a baby toothbrush. This plumps the lips, and makes them very smoothe. People who live in the Western states get very dry lips, which can make them look older than they actually are. Goldie hadn't done this before, but she loved it. Now when she has facials she has the facialist do her lips as well. It's become a bit of an industry joke, me and my exfoliating toothbrushes. I tell models to bring toothbrushes to their shoots, and I have overheard models who I have worked with in the past telling the younger girls that they need to bring toothbrushes if they are going to work with me.

5. Concealer. Now I'm ready to actually apply some make-up. Goldie doesn't have dark circles under the eyes, although many women do, but she does have a little darkness in the corner of the eyes near the tear duct. I put just a drop of concealer there, and I normally do this with everyone anyway, because it makes your eyes look rested. If you have a tendency to have sunken eyes, just a drop of concealer there helps to make them pop out. I then check for blemishes or freckles, and apply concealer to those areas. Goldie has just a few large freckles, which we covered with the concealer.

6. Foundation. For Goldie I use a light liquid foundation for fair skin. As I said, her skin is in good condition, and she doesn't need a huge amount of coverage. I don't want her to seem overly made-up.

7. Powder. After the foundation is smoothed into skin, I apply a fine, thin layer of loose powder, which is the same shade as the foundation. This sets it, and takes away any sheen. You don't want any reflection under lights!

8. Contouring cheeks. To add a bit of contouring to Goldie's cheeks, I generally take two shades of darker pressed powder, and pat this underneath the cheekbones. I then place a light blush on the upper part of the cheek, and darker blush on lower part of cheek, over the pressed powder I have just laid. This gives me a base, so the blush doesn't become loud. I don't want her to look like she has a streak to contour her cheekbone. Powder creates such a nice contouring base, not too extreme or dark. It doesn't look like it's smeared on when you apply the blush.


Eye Map
(click to enlarge)

9. Shadowing Eyes. Much like I apply a base foundation on the face, I also do the same for the eyes. For Goldie I use a light beige powder shadow, and this goes on the entire lid and brow bone. I then add the crease to the eye, to create some definition. I then contour the crease with a soft shade of brown. I use a champagne shadow on the entire lid, highlighting the brow bown with pale gold ivory.

10. Lining Eyes. I first line both the top and bottom of the eye with a charcoal (not black) pencil, then I blend that to soften the line a bit, then I layer onto the top lid only another line of liquid eyeliner. This gives the eyes more depth, and dresses them up for the evening. I end the line at the end of the eye, but do not create an extension. When I got to the end of the eyelid, I make the liquid line a little thicker, without the line being too severe. I then use mascara on the top and bottom of the lashes. This makes Goldie's already large eyes look huge and passionate.

11. Eyebrows. Goldie's eyebrows are just a tad short, so I use a taupe pencil to extend the brow, and fix them in place with a bit of finishing gel. Lengthening her brows open up her eyes, and gives them more expression.

12. Lips. Goldie likes to line her lips, she loves full lips. Her hair is her first concern, but her lips run a close second. She wants to make sure those lips are defined! We match the lipstick shade to whatever she is wearing. A warm bronze suited the ice blue Donatella Versace halter neck dress she wore in 1999.

Overall, Goldie is a complete pleasure to be around. She lets me go, she trusts me. Goldie doesn't complain about every little thing, but her biggest kvetch is her hair, not the make-up. That famous blonde hair has to look just right! And when you are appearing on a program which is broadcast live across the entire planet, perfection is the order of the day. And when you're working with someone like Goldie Hawn, that is what you will achieve.

Very Van Heusen

I told you I would be back with outlet bargains and here is one.

I got this soft cotton nautical tee with 3/4 length sleeves , originally $46
for $14.49. Pair it with some comfy capris or crops and accent with red shoes,
and earrings and you're stylish for a song.

Are Outlets Really Worth the Trip

Outlets have become big business. I remember the days when an outlet would be in an unused factory, hence the name factory outlet. There would be little air conditioning, lots of dust and few amenities, but lots of bargains. Now, most outlets are grouped together in new buildings sporting designer names. Prices are high and you have to know your prices, lower often at TJ Maxx or Marshalls, but of course, the selection isn't as large.

Today an excursion up Rte 7 revealed exactly that. Lee Premium Outlets are a quick trip from Connecticut It was a beautiful day to be outside and go from store to store. Most were offering some kind of discount 45, 50 or 60 per cent off plus an extra 30 per cent. They sported many of the designer brands, Tommy Hilfiger, Gap, Bass and on and on. Dress Barn offered no other discount, other than that you could receive at any of their stores. And Talbots was much more impressive in Chicago. The east coast selections often seemed geared to the traditional old maid.

The first thing I do at an outlet is head to the back for their clearance racks. Van Heusen and Ann Taylor had some great buys. Most of their merchandise had the discount plus 30. Their tops started at about $10, perfect for my pocketbook.

Check back to see some of the bargains.

Have a great week!!

Hats, Hats and More Hats

I love the look of hats, but never have been comfortable wearing one. But recently, having to take Lyme medicine which makes one sunsensitive, I've taken more notice of what's available.

What's great about the new hats are they are all packable for vacations or to throw in your beach bag. Plus, less wrinkles in your face from squinting or sun damage. A win, win!!





Straw Sun Hat, L.L. Bean ($34 Cute and serviceable, a hat for all occasions -- on the beach or on-the-go. It's lightweight and made of raffia, and also comes in a deep pink color.








I love this one from sungrubbies.com ($38). Reminds me of the old black and white movies with the sun bathing beauty, tall, thin and lanky. Works like a charm for those of us who are past that age too!!



Coolibar.com has tons of crushable hats with spf 50. They run about $30.











The Beach Ribbon Hat, our shapeable large brimmed ribbon hat, offers serious UPF 50+ sun protection, with comfort and style.

This 100% polyester ribbon sun hat features an extra-wide 4½” sun protective moldable brim. Designed and tested specifically for everyday outdoor use. Accent ribbon tie adjusts for dependable fit. Easily packed for travel, great for walks in the neighborhood, or afternoons at the beach! UPF50+. Clean with damp sponge. Open air dry. Do not iron. Packable. Designed in the USA/Imported. From Sunprotectionhats.com for around $14.

Fun Friday--Energy in a Hurry

Yippee, guys--it's finally Friday and I need to rev up for the weekend.

Soooooo----

Lots of foods energize--
Oranges and apples--vitamin C turns your fat into energy

Dark Chocolate contains theobromine a natural stimulant

Fish contains omega 3's which affect mood.


Chew cinnamon gum-the scent helps people stay more awake and less frustrated. It increases blood flow and stimulates the brain area responsible for arousal.

















Wake to light As soon as you are upright open your shades or turn on a lamp. Light tells your body to stop with the melatonin giving you a boost of energy all day.

How about an energy drink Swish it!! In a study athletes worked harder because their brains thought they were about to get fuel.







Jasmine anyone? The scent helps the body release a neurotranmitter that increases alertness. Hint: put jasmine oil in unscented body lotion and enjoy!!
















flowers Get out and enjoy flowers in your garden or treat yourself to a bouquet. According to a Harvard Medical School study looking at flowers energizes soooooooooooo Enjoy the summer!!

Contest and Free Stuff Thursday

Enter at allyou.com for:

a kindle from Amazon


a Clairmont bike from Schwinn



a PressureFlex 2 in 1 from Dirt Devil


Char-broil grill

Celebrity Wednesday--Diane Keaton

I’ve come to the conclusion that staying young is a matter of attitude. Look at Diane Keaton—
she always has a what me? attitude. Here are some of her secrets.
Don’t agonize over what to wear. Put outfits together and then add one “extra” to make the outfit pop.
It could be a funky hat, an antique pin or a flashy man’s vest. Shoes are almost always a sure bet. (from one who
Often feels like Imelda Marcos).
Wear black, don’t apologize. It’s easy and almost always looks chic. Ad the pop and you are good to go. Scarves, hats a great purse all work.
It’s ok to love to shop. Get your inspiration from your favorite role models.
According to Diane, your attitude is your best beauty secret. Life is too precious to worry about the little things.
Appreciate your time and keep busy.

Wow for White

Summer has always been a favorite time and summer white my favorite outfit combo

Above, check out Newport New's white ideas. www.newportnews.com

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

Help--My Frizz is Out of Control

I don 't know if it's old age LOL or Connecticut humidity but this year my hair is out of control. My hair is baby fine, and tends to wave a bit but when it's humid it goes wacko. I've tried leave on products and hair spray. Nothing works. I used to love Herbal Essence Shampoo and used it for years, but then they changed their formula and I stopped using it. Well browsing the shelves with their myriad of products, I came upon their smoothing shampoo and thought I would give it a try. It was like going to a salon. My hair felt healthy (not dry like the frizzy makes it) and smooth. I didn't even need conditioner. Second day, it still looks great, even with a steady rain coming down. I would highly recommend this product. Check out their website, www.herbalessence.com or like herbal essence on facebook for coupons and enjoy!!

Fun Friday--How About a Little Shakespeare??

Shakespeare may have famously written that "all the world's a stage," but even the Bard himself would concede that New York is the best place to be for your summer theater fix.

For traditionalists, the Royal Shakespeare Company brings its 44-actor ensemble and set, modeled after the original in Stratford-upon-Avon, to Lincoln Center. From July 6 to August 14, the troupe will perform five plays--As You Like It, King Lear, Julius Caesar, Romeo and Juliet and The Winter's Tale--with tickets from $40 to $200.

If you prefer more authentic scenery, there's the much-beloved summer tradition of Shakespeare in the Park. This season's slate, running through July 30, includes Measure for Measure and All's Well That Ends Well. Tickets are free, but prepare to line up with your fellow soliloquy seekers (or try your luck online with the Public Theater's new virtual ticketing system).

And my all time favorite!! If you're up for a road trip, check out performances of Hamlet and The Comedy of Errors at the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival hosted at the beautiful, 19th-century Boscobel estate in Garrison (through September 4; $33 for adults.)

The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival has a great offer that will not only put you on one of the most spectacular sites along the Hudson River, on the grounds of Boscobel House & Gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic dinner, but will also entertain and inspire you with an evening of Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it. This season, the Festival’s 25th, will feature Hamlet, The Comedy of Errors and Around the World in 80 Days. The Wall Street Journal says” “If you’re searching for the best of all possible times … you’ll have trouble topping the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. I can’t think of another outdoor festival that has a higher overall batting average. Hudson Valley’s deliberately informal productions are a model of cultural populism at its most engaging and effective.” The Festival is offering readers of StacyKnows.com a special discount of 15% off for all weeknight performances, Tuesday through Friday, from June 14th through July 1st. All you need to do to get the discount is purchase your tickets through the Box Office and mention the code: STACY KNOWS. The Box Office number is: (845) 265-9575. For a full schedule of performances go to www.hvshakespeare.org).

Make your plans now, before the curtain falls.