It’s All About Me

I recently returned from my cousin’s wedding on Cape Cod loaded down with a number of gifts all of which were emblazoned with my initials. Bunny had a wonderful pre wedding spa-day for all the girls and what fun we had. Each of us received a Robe, Slippers and a matching Cosmetic Bag embroidered with a seashell and our monogram. The bride pranced around in a robe that read “The Future Mrs. Moore”…too cute. I can’t tell you how many compliments she got on her choice of gifts…so much better than some candle or wine glass.

The Happy Couple 

Just what is it that makes us so fascinated with something that is fashioned just for us? The futurist Faith Popcorn, who predicts and defines trends, refers to this as “Egonomics ”. Ms Popcorn (gotta love that name) says “to offset a depersonalized society consumers crave recognition of their individuality”. Maybe a little intellectual, but hey who doesn’t want to be thought of as an individual? Just which one of us doesn’t have a little bit of an ego?

Ugh, Now I'm hungry! 

Monograms are the earliest form of personal identification and go all the way back to Roman and Greek civilization. They were used as a way to identify a person or a family and often appeared on coins. Later in the Middle Ages artists, sculptors and furniture makers used them as a way to sign their work. Monarchs used them (and still do) as a form of royal signature. The Victorians used them to show their status in society. These monograms were very formal and were used on such things as bridal clothes, linens, stationery and luggage. There were many rules regarding how initials would appear in any monogram, the favored one being the three-lettered version. In this version the last name would appear in the middle with the first name to the left and the middle name to the right. (Yikes! What an ordeal)

From the 1900's!

Fast forward to the 21st century and find that we are still addicted to this outward expression of who we are. Just as they did back in the day, monograms conjure up a certain level of sophistication. However we have thrown the rules out the window. Today high tech embroidery machines make it possible to quickly and affordably stitch intricate monograms and designs. . We are no longer limited to a single block letter or the traditional three initials. Themes and modern fonts are the order of the day. We can add monkeys and fire trucks, rings or circus clowns. This outward expression of who we are, where went to school or what we are doing can be had on any item from bags to shoes. 

How did they get these on there?!

Who doesn’t like that? Personalized gifts are memorable and show that special touch, the idea that you took a little extra care. Next time you need a gift use a little imagination and consider some personalization. I guarantee that you will be rewarded with joy and thanks.
Me? I am on my way to my very own logo. I just got some slippers that say “Bizzie’s Left” and “Bizzie’s Right”.




Have Fun!







Have Fun!

DUM-DUM-DA-DUMMM (The Wedding March)

It's that time of the year... the weddings are coming. What were once simple affairs that took place at ones parent's house, are now major events that take months, if not years to plan. Did you know that the average couple spends an average of $25,000 on their wedding? The tradition of extravagant weddings really picked up steam with the marriage of Princess Di in 1981. Was there a girl in the world that didn't dream of the rustle of taffeta as she made her way up the aisle to her Prince Charming? OK, so maybe the marriage didn't work out so well, but it was one heck of a wedding.

Then last April, girls across the world, (myself included) got up in the middle of the night to watch another young woman, glorious in white lace, marry her Prince. I never saw a woman who personified the word 'Bride' more than the lovely Kate. The consensus (fingers crossed) is that this marriage is the real deal.

Now off I go, not up the aisle as a bride, but as a bridesmaid. Not once, not twice, but three times from May to September. The role of the bridesmaid goes back to Pagan Times when evil spirits were thought to be at weddings. The idea was if you surrounded the bride with 'look-a-likes' (or bridesmaids) the spirits would not be able to single out the bride as cast an evil spell. Unless your friends are into Pagan History, it is doubtful that they are too concerned about this and it is not the reason they had asked you to join their wedding party.

There is often so much negative chatter about being a 'Bridesmaid'. Even last year's movie did little to lift the role of attendant to heights I think it deserves. OK, I know the average cost of being a bridesmaid is pegged at about $1700, including the dress, the shoes, the alterations, the hair, the nails, the shower, and the gifts. But while I do harp on about the costs, there is really something very special about being a bridesmaid.

When you are asked to be a part of a wedding is like being included in the very sanctum of friendship. Only the bride and groom's closest pals and relatives are asked to be in the wedding party. It really is an honor.

I must say I look forward to all the conversations and the days that lead up to the big day. Events like these always create heartfelt, silly, and wonderful memories. It is during this lead up to the wedding that a strong bond is made between a bride and her maids. Of course sometimes all the stress can lead to some bruised feelings and spats, but rarely does being a bridesmaid lead to anything other than being a closer friend.

So I will do it all; wear the dress with ruffles, when I really hate ruffles. I will put my hair up, when I hate my hair up. Squeeze my feet into heels, the height of The Pyramids, and put a great big smile on my face. I will stand there and promise a commitment to a lifetime of support to a dear friend.

Best Wishes,

Bizzie Buzz

Holiday Guests

Thanksgiving is fast approaching and today I learned that my Mom had decided to extend an invitation to her cousin from San Diego to join us this year.  Well Mom has only one guest room and Granny has first dibs on that.  So, it seems that cousin Ginny will be spending the weekend at my place.  Actually it has been a long time since I have seen her and I know it will be fun but the thought of cleaning out the guestroom is daunting.

My guestroom is really my storage room.  Whenever I need a place for something I throw it in the guestroom and close the door.  Now I can barely open the door to get in.  With this chore in mind I did a little research on tips for creating a “real guestroom” and I got some great ideas and I thought I would share them with you just in case you too have some holiday guests on their way.

·       De-clutter the room…that means all the stuff on the bed and on the floor need to find a new and permanent home. I bought a couple of clear plastic containers, filled and stacked them neatly in the back of the closet.

·       Dust and vacuum the entire room.  Check for cobwebs along the ceiling.  Since you never sleep in that room it might be a good idea to lie in the bed and see just what a guest will see.

·       Make the bed with fresh sheets   I like to lightly spritz my sheets with a lavender scented fabric spray.  Have a extra pillow and blanket within reach.

·       On the nightstand have an alarm clock, a good lamp to read by and maybe a couple of books that your think your guest might find interesting.  Also remember some tissues and a bottle of water.

·       Put out a few fresh towels.  I also include a small basket with small sizes of toothpaste, shampoo and mouthwash etc.  Just a nice touch.

·       Make a little room in the closet for hanging things.  Or if that is a problem you can hang an over the door hook with a couple of pretty hangers.

·       I also add a robe and slippers (check my website for a great waffle weave robe http://bit.ly/u89QMt ).  This becomes your small welcome gift and something your guest can take along when she leaves as a reminder of her visit.

·       Finally, nothing says welcome like a small bouquet of fresh flowers.  Nothing splashy or expensive.  A couple of blooms in a glass will do.

You are set.  If all of this sounds so good, you might even want to consider a night or two in your own guest room…a little escape without ever leaving the house.

Talk soon,

Bizzie

The Rite of Fall

How abruptly the summer morphed into fall, or so it seems. I flew to Texas for the wedding of an old friend and in the short time I was gone September was over and the leaves began to change.


I live in a climate that has a warm season and a cold season, thus the need for two separate wardrobes. Once I feel that first cool day I know that it is time to pull out the turtlenecks and fleeces and put away the capris and tank tops. This process becomes my big closet clean, or as I like to call it "The Rite of Fall". I have actually gotten pretty good at this project and I thought I would share a few of my ideas for getting it done and doing it well.


The first thing you need to do is make the time. This is not a fifteen-minute task. I know how hard it is to give up a weekend afternoon, but I can assure you it will be time well spent. I typically allocate a few hours and make sure I have some great music to listen to while I work.


Begin by taking everything out of your closet and making piles on the bed. With the closet empty this is a great time to run the vacuum or dust the floor.


The hard work begins now- what to keep, store, and what to get rid of. Begin by going through each pile. You will need to be ruthless, and let's face it if you didn't wear it this summer what are the chances you will wear it next summer? If it is an emotional thing, something I call 'memory clothes' consider taking a picture. I actually know a gal who made a quilt out of her favorite old t-shirts and jeans that she could not bear to part with.


Make a 'donate' pile. There are so many charities that will gladly take lightly used clothing. You will feel good knowing someone less fortunate will benefit. If it is something that is really beat up, it makes more sense just to toss it.


Make sure things are washed and cleaned before you put them away. Because I have a large closet I store my clothes in clear plastic containers. I put like items with like items and label each container. The containers are then stored on the top shelves of the closet. (Keep it organized.. you might have to dig into them if you decide on a winter vacation to a tropical spot). If you don't have room to store containers move the summer clothes to the back of the closet, leaving them hanging and cover them with an old sheet to keep them fresh.


Next I dust off my shoes and put them back on a wooden shoe rack on the floor. I also try to keep my shoes in the original boxes with a label, but that much organization seldom works out for me.


Finally hang an air freshener in the closet, stand back and take a look at the progress you have made. Now the trick is to keep it looking that way. Good luck with that!! For that part you are on your own...


Talk soon,

Bizzie Buzz

The Long Shadows

   Have you noticed, this time of year, that the days grow shorter and the shadows grow longer? These are the subtle signs that summer is coming to an end. Oh how I hate to see it go. Time to put away the flip-flops and beach hairs, umbrellas, and coolers.

   The only thing that perks me up is that I will soon be saying hello to some new fall clothes. It always amazes me how the stores seemingly convert their displays overnight from white-cropped pants and t-shirts to turtlenecks and boots. I am ready to buy a few new things for this season.

   Not sure if you have noticed, but there seem to be a lot of strong fashion trends this year. I have spent the last few beach days scouring the fashion magazines for a few good and affordable things to buy so when I hit the stores I'll know exactly what I'm looking for.

   Top of my list is a poncho or a cape. They are really hot and they are super versatile. I am thinking I would like a black and white tweed one to wear over some high waisted wide leg pants. After years of skinny pants the wider leg looks new and fresh. Not sure I can embrace the bell bottom, but they seem to be everywhere.

   Colored pants are a must have too! Think yellow and red or orange.. I know it sounds kind of crazy, but I saw a pair of red corduroys with a crisp white blouse tucked in and let me tell you.. it looked cool. Oh yeah! I must add a new white shirt to the list. The shirts this season are longer and more overszied and can be worn out and belted.. another look I like.

   I will also need something in snakeskin.. Maybe a cross body bag. If you really want to be a stand out, consider a leather skirt in faux snakeskin. Make sure it hits well below the knee. Some high heeled booties and you are off to fashionista city.

   Some other trends to watch for are fur trims, choker necklaces, and wide cuff bracelets. Long coats that almost skin the floor are everywhere too. The must have colors of the season are deep rich blue, and shades of gray and wine.

   You don't have to spend a fortune on any of these looks. You can find lots of bargains in the discount stores.. The key is to know what you are looking for. I hear that the famous Italian designer Missoni is doing a limited collection for Target that will be in stores in September. That is something not to be missed.

   So enjoy these last days of summer fun and get yourself geared up for some serious shopping!!

   Talk very soon,
-Bizzie Buzz-

Beach Baggin'

I love the beach life. It doesn’t much matter whether I am headed to the ocean, a lake, a river, or even an old rock quarry. I am happiest when I am out in the warmth of the sun with sand between my toes.

Going to the beach can be as simple as grabbing a towel and a bottle of sunscreen. For me however, it is a much more serious undertaking. My beach bag is packed with as much thought as a suitcase for a European holiday.

First and foremost is the “beach bag” itself. (This is tricky) It has to be big enough to fit all my stuff, lightweight, and above all have handles long enough to fit comfortably on my shoulder. My current favorite is a large lined straw tote with long leather straps and a wide opening that zips closed (keeps your stuff in and the sand out). I always look for something with a flat bottom so that is sits straight up in the sand right next to me. Take time to find the right bag and believe me you will be glad you did. While “looks” may matter, how the bag feels on your shoulder as you trek across the sand is far more important.

In my bag you will always find a combination of “need to haves” and “nice to haves”.


Need to Haves


· Sunscreen and lip balm. I love the spray on sunscreen, so I never have to touch anything sticky and greasy. Remember to reapply through out the day, especially after swimming or physical activity. Keep them in a clear bag away from the rest of your gear.


· Sunglasses. The last thing you want to do it burn your eyelids.


· Clear zippered bag for a phone and keys. Make sure to charge your phone.


· Hat or Scarf. You don’t want to ruin those fabulous new “highlights” you just got by over exposing your hair to the sun.


· A slimmed down wallet with a little cash and one credit card. You might need some cash for parking and ice cream. My favorite beach also has a great gift shop where I always manage to charge a few things.


· Water. A small lightweight thermos will keep it chilled. I keep my thermos at the very bottom of my bag and out of the sun.


Nice to Haves


Snacks. Nuts, fruit or anything that won’t melt. That means no chocolate!


· Book, Magazines, or E-reader.


· iPod


· Small bag with Band-Aids, Baby Wipes, Tissues, Wide toothed comb, and hair clip or band.


· Sweatshirt for when the sun gets low and the breeze picks up. It always amazes me how quickly the temperature can change near the water.


Now that you are all packed you can relax knowing you are organized and ready for some fun.


I keep my Beach Bag in the trunk of my car, always packed and ready for a fast escape to my favorite place on earth…the beach!


Talk to you soon!


Bizzie Buzz

Living On Lemons

  I am fortunate to come from a family where the women have lived well into their nineties and beyond. My Great Aunt Hattie left us last week at the age of 103. She was quite a force of nature, ahead of her time in many ways. As a mentor and confidante she nurtured and encouraged the younger women of her family to strive to be whatever they wanted long before that was the fashion. My Mother often speaks of how Aunt Hattie had encouraged her to forge a role for herself in life. Hattie always advised the brides in the family to “keep a little something aside” for themselves. By this she meant a private savings account, which she had and kept hidden from her husband of over fifty years. She was quite a lady and I will miss her.

  When Hattie was 85 she came to live with us. My Mother was her favorite niece and they were devoted to each other. I learned a lot having Hattie around while I was growing up. She began every day with a glass of lemon water. It was a routine she followed as long as she could remember. I thought it quite odd and always resisted any attempt to try it for myself. Then about a year ago I began to read about the benefits of the lemon water. Maybe Hattie was on to something for all those years. Hey, she lived a long and healthy life.
 
  Apparently the use of lemon water traces is origins to traditional Chinese medicine, which uses nature to prevent and treat health problems. Legend has it that the ancient Romans used lemon water as a cure for the poisons of the day. In the 21st this vitamin C rich citrus fruit that also contains potassium, magnesium and calcium, is touted as a way to detox your system and possibly aid in weight loss. Lemons have digestive properties that can ease heartburn, nausea and even hiccups. Since lemons clear toxins the first thing to benefit is your skin. Your skin will not look bright until your body is free of toxins. There are those that swear drinking lemon water will slow the aging process and even fight wrinkles. Other benefits may include the reduction of the symptoms of asthma and arthritis. Also a natural diuretic, lemon water is good for those with urinary tract infections.

  Biggest bonus of all…. lemon water is calorie free, easy and inexpensive to make. You can drink it warm, cold, or hot. Real devotees like Aunt Hattie (and the Chinese) would have a warm glass of lemon water every morning. Hattie would have a second glass with ice later in the day.

  When buying lemons look for a bright color and relatively thin skin. Keep your lemons at room temperature. Before cutting, roll the lemon on the counter a few times to release the juice. You should use the juice of one half lemon for each eight ounces of water. One final tip…. I wash the lemons before I use them with a mild soap.


 Give this 'old' but tried and true gift of a nature a try. I can’t promise Aunt Hattie’s years but I can promise, a refreshing and healthy drink.


Talk to you soon!


Bizzie Buzz