A Stop At Henri Bendel's NARS Counter

712 Fifth Avenue, New York

Recently, I got a call from NARS at Henri Bendel's to come in for a makeover.  Unlike e.v.e.r. before, I looked natural and dare I say, like a professional model or actress when all made-up.  I know it wasn't just my imagination because as I circulated the floor afterwards, strangers took the initiative of telling me how pretty I looked, and this doesn't normally happen to me.  Gee whiz, could I stir such flattery every day?  Realistically?  Nooo, not if I have to do my own makeup.

I don't know what possessed me to accept the invitation as I rarely do such things, but it turned out to be a great experience all around, and I learned a few tricks of the makeup trade.  My appointment was at a slow time of the day, and the cosmetologist spent an hour on my face!  At the end of the hour I wore 31 products -- 5 different items on my lips alone -- so I should have looked my very best!  Fortunately, I had a makeup artist who was very talented and conscientious too.  That makes a difference.  Gissel ... herself, lovely and sweet ... from Seville, could make a baked potato look gorgeous.

There is one consideration though.  When a professional spends so much time making you up, you feel pressure to buy something, and NARS is an expensive line.  But, I knew this going in and went anyway in order to learn something new.  And, I have a pretty good idea what cosmetics to spend my money on.

In general, you need to spend more on makeup when top ingredients and rich pigments count.  The colors will last all day, and not fade off your face.  You can save on moisterizers and cleansers that are nearly the same despite price points.  There's no need to pay more for skin care, or products when cheaper versions exist to give you similar results.  According to many experts, here's how to break it down:

Spend on:

Anti-Aging serums – Stay informed on the best ingredients and latest technologies for your face.

Foundation – I don't wear, or buy it.  But the consensus is to spend if you use foundation everyday, since it determines how the rest of your makeup looks.

Concealer – For under eye dark circles, we are well acquainted!

Powder

Blush

Save on:

Body scrubs and exfoliators – Try exfoliating with table salt while showering.  It works.

Bronzers – I don't use it, but then again, I don't usually walk around with the sculptured, high cheek bones that Gissel defined for me.

Mascara – Another item I usually skip. I have long lashes and don't want to look like a raccoon at the end of the night.

Eyeliners - like 
Eyebrow pencils – Don't mind if I do once in a while.

Spend and Save on:

Lipsticks and lip glosses – You need some lipsticks with good pigments that will stay on your lips for hours, plus some fun, trendy shades you don't mind reapplying.

Eyeshadow – Ditto.  I don't usually wear this either.

Skin and face moisturizers – Some of the drug store brands – like Booths No. 7, Olay and L'Oréal – are bargains, containing effective ingredients.  Unless you have an allergy, you can use these.  Spending more on eye cream makes sense because the skin around the eyes is more sensitive.

Gissel taught me (1) to try different looks and not be married to just one; (2) celebrities aren't born beautiful; it takes lots of products to look good and; (3) having a skilled professional share tips and show you how to better apply makeup is a wonderful opportunity.

Just decide how much you will spend before you go, and stick to your budget!

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Healthy Spices In A Well-Stocked Kitchen

Good cooks already know how important spices are in meal preparation.  Not only do herbs and spices make food taste better, they may help you live healthier and longer.  So says a slew of experts, including Drs. Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen (the "You" doctors), Dr. Andrew Weil (a proponent of integrative medicine) and Alison Gernand (from the University of Texas School of Public Health).  Studies show that adding spices to a diet helps ward off disease, regulates cholesterol and blood pressure and averts upset stomach, amongst other ailments.

So to prepare savory dishes at home, be sure to keep the following healthy spices in a well-stocked kitchen.  Think of it as inexpensive, preventative medicine:

1) Garlic – Good in meat, vegetables, soups and salads.  Lowers blood pressure and is good for your heart.

2) Onion – Also versatile in cooking.  An onion is a heart-friendly vegetable used as a spice. It fights cancer, relieves colds and clears your respiratory system.

3) Parsley – High in vitamin C and iron.  Parsley fights lung cancer and protects you against aging and rheumatoid arthritis.

4) Oregano – It is rich in anti-oxidants and thought to fight breast and ovarian cancer.

5) Rosemary – Good for your eyes; it may reduce the risk of developing cataracts.

6) Thyme – Soothes coughs and has antiseptic properties.

7) Cinnamon – Helps to lower cholesterol, blood sugar and keeps metabolism in check for healthy weight control.

8) Nutmeg – Relieves nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  Fights insomnia.  Lowers blood pressure, increases circulation and reduces joint pain.

9) Allspice – You will taste hints of pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It relieves bloating and muscle aches.

10) Clove – Has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties.  Eliminates intestinal parasites and bacteria.

11) Ginger – Boosts the immune system, fights colds, soothes upset stomach, relieves gas and is good for your heart.

12) Bay Leaves – High in vitamins A and C.  Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure.

13) Turmeric – Used in Indian dishes, it has anti-aging properties and fights prostate cancer.

14) Cilantro [aka coriander] – Protects against urinary tract infections.

15) Crushed red pepper, cayenne pepper and paprika – Excellent source of anti-oxidants.  Red peppers contain capsaicin, a natural inflammation reducer.  They may help you lose weight also.

You might also pick up basil, tarragon, sage, cardamom pods and star anise.  Although fresh herbs and spices are ideal, substitute dried for convenience.  After you have a well-stocked spice rack, try making this delicious and easy treat:

Authentic Masala Chai

6 cups water

1 inch-thick slice of fresh ginger, smashed with the side of your knife

3-4 cinnamon sticks

2 teaspoons black peppercorns, or ½ teaspoon ground pepper

10 whole cloves

6 cardamom pods, crushed

2 star anise

I add a pinch of nutmeg and a dash of vanilla extract.

8 black tea bags (or 8 teaspoons of loose black tea)

2 cups milk

½ cup honey

1. Combine the first 8 ingredients and bring to a boil.

2. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.

3. Turn off the heat and let the spices steep for 10 more minutes.

4. Next throw in the tea bags and steep for another 3-5 minutes.  Remove the tea bags, and strain the solid spices from the chai.  This mixture can be stored in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to use, add the milk, vanilla and honey to the chai. Heat in a pot on top of your stove, or microwave until hot.  Enjoy!

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Gerry Rafferty - Right Down the Line

On January 4th, 2011 Scottish musician Gerry Rafferty died of liver failure. Best known for his pop hits, [solo] "Baker Street," "Right Down the Line" and [with band mates] "Stuck In the Middle With You," he was a life long alcoholic, which must have been genetic, because his father was one also. I want to acknowledge him for his distinctive voice and fine songwriting. Not only are his tunes catchy and likable, but his lyrics are crisp, precise and brilliantly simple. When you listen to him, he is really saying something that is universal. Few musicians write about relationships, or the human condition with as much clarity and understanding.  Many artists never have a memorable song.  Gerry Rafferty had three and a good album -- or two.  Not too shabby; it makes you wonder what might have been.  R.I.P. [For more read this from the NYT.]

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Pass The Pepper Mill, Please

It appears I'm going to have to bite the bullet. There's a kitchen gadget I need, and it never, ever goes on sale.  I'm talking about a pepper mill.  Research leads me to a French company.  Peugeot makes a high end pepper mill, which reportedly will last through the years.  The model I have in mind is called “Nancy.”  That's right ... Nancy.  Who knew pepper mills have names?  Could it be a joke the French are playing on Americans?  If so, they'll never admit it.  

Regardless of not knowing why a pepper mill has a proper feminine name, it has a clear acrylic body to be able to see the peppercorns, along with stainless steel grinding mechanisms, so it won't soon become dull through use.  There are several sizes.  Does size matter with Nancy?  She's staying mum.  I'm selecting 7 inches -- not too big and not too small.  And it's easy to handle and refill.  

Nancy replaces a $1.99 no-name pepper mill I purchased from CVS as a test to see if freshly ground pepper makes a big difference in cooking.  Yes, it definitely does.  A world of difference in flavor.  Now I'm wondering if I need a salt grinder too.  I'm thinking no, but please weigh in if you are a cook.  Costs: $28 each.  

Update: I bought the set, and they look so darn cute together.  My mills work great!

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Ringing In The New Year

New Year's Day has come and gone, but the new year has just begun.  I don't make New Year's resolutions, per se.  I think you need motivation, direction and discipline everyday to live a life of purpose, as well as, the flexibility to meet the challenges that will invariably arise.  Nothing earth-shattering here ... stay positive, always do your best, learn from your mistakes and keep trying.  (Sometimes, trying something else.)  I don't believe this way of thinking guarantees you'll achieve every goal, get rich, or avoid all hardship, but I think over the course of a lifetime, you'll find contentment in knowing you were the best you could possibly be.  You will live a meaningful life, and one that you direct.

That being said, there are a few things I'd like to have more and less of in 2011:

More

Laughs with family and friends

Fabulous voices to listen to – (No mosh pits for me!)  Music by gifted performers who really can sing.

Interesting books to read – What will I discover in the new year?

Congress working together – Compromise, government getting the job done

Pilates – Good teachers nearby

Organization of home and work space – Forever makes me happy! 

Wholesome, delicious food to eat – Forever makes me happy!

Patience – Practicing it, receiving it

Generosity of spirit – Possessing it, receiving it

Transparency – Living it, being surrounded by it. Forever makes me happy!

Less

Negative people - Life is too short.

Lindsay Lohan - Her mother, her father 

Kate Gosselin - And the journalists who interview her.

Heidi Montag - Ditto.  Let's go back to, you must have a talent to become a celebrity.

Christine O'Donnell and those like her - "I am not a witch."  Enough said.

Processed food 

Clutter

Movies – That are slight, depressing or pointless.

Facebook – A little goes a long way.

Twitter – A miniscule goes a very long way.

And finally, I'd like to share a clever quote from Suzy Orman, who gives advice on tracking your spending and staying out of debt, “You are creating a life where people come first, then money, then things.”  It's a good thought to start a new year, don't you agree?

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The Twelve Days Of Christmas

Many people probably think the twelve days of Christmas start before December 25th, since what was once a religious holiday has evolved into an over-the-top commercial one; but in Western Christian Churches the twelve days of Christmas actually run from December 25th until January 5th.  It is then followed by The Epiphany on January 6th.  Some Christian traditions count the evening of December 25th and the day of December 26th as the First Day of Christmas and include The Epiphany -- a day remembering that Three Wise Men, or Magi, arrived, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the Christ child.  Traditionally, there are three Magi, as the Bible names three gifts, but did you know that the narrative never mentions how many Wise Men came?  Also, many of us know the names of the Magi [Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar], but that's not mentioned in Scripture either.

Although December 25th is celebrated as Christmas in the West, some countries wait until January 6th to exchange gifts.  Shakespeare's “Twelfth Night” is January 5th, the last day of the Christmas season before the celebration of the Epiphany.  In some cultures, it is the custom to give Christmas gifts for each day of Christmas.  And out of this practice, we have a well-known song, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

The origins of the song are equally fascinating … and controversial.  Some historians suggest "The Twelve Days Of Christmas" began as a song of Christian instruction during England's Protestant Reformation in the 16th Century, with hidden references to the Catholic faith.  But other historians disagree, claiming the song was simply a fun parlor game of secular origins.  Because there's no unshakable proof either way, we'll have to wait for scholars to establish the song's true origins with more certainty.

Here 's the Religious Symbolism cited in "The Twelve Days Of Christmas":

1 My True Love refers to God

2 Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments

3 French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues

4 Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists

5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.

6 Geese A-Laying refers to the six days of creation

7 Swans A-Swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the sacraments

8 Maids A-Milking refers to the eight beatitudes

9 Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit

10 Lords A-Leaping refers to the Ten Commandments

11 Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles [minus Judas]

12 Drummers Drumming refers to the points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed [source: carols.org.uk]

Clearly, it's a spirited Christmas song, fun to sing in a big group, regardless of orgins.  I hope you're enjoying the holidays.  But, don't take down those decorations yet.  There are still eight more days of Christmas to go!

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Stay Warm With A Goose Down Coat

When you're in the hustle and bustle of a crowned city street look around you.  Everyone seems to own a goose down coat.  Recently I bought one, and now I understand the reason for their popularity.  

Ultra warm and lightweight, it's my new go-to coat.  

Before selecting it, I shopped around and asked lots of questions.  I learned, if you want a warm down coat that needs less layering, it should be at least 70% down, with 600 fill insulation.  

Based on quality and style, I liked three companies: Moncler, North Face and Lands' End.  Each makes a super warm coat that lets you bundle up without bulking up.  Good.  Let's avoid a Michelin Man look.  After I considered a fourth element -- cost verses value, I chose the Down Chalet Coat from Lands' End.  Here's why: Designed as stylish as its competitors, it has all the bells and whistles for a fraction of the cost!  

Lands' End's Chalet Coat is 80% natural goose down with 650 fill insulation, which is comparable to the others.  It has (1) an attractive wind and water resistant polyester shell; (2) snaps and a zipper [double] closure; (3) a goose down insulated, snap-off hood; (4) micro-fleece storm cuffs; and (5) 5 pockets [3 inside and 2 fleece-lined outside].  All 5 pockets zip closed.  And what makes the coat truly warm in the coldest weather is (6) a wind blocking chin guard.  With the chin guard and insulated hood, I don't have to wear a scarf, or hat in 17 degrees F.  So far, I've avoided hat hair and wearing extra layers of clothing.  Plus, I get lots of compliments wearing it.  It's surprising how toasty warm such a lightweight coat is.   

The coat is mid-calf, longer than it photographs and machine washable too.  Extra tip from Landsend: When machine drying your coat, throw in a few tennis balls to fluff it up.

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Homemade Almond Roca

Every December I become a cookie baker, but my friends Cara S. and Michelle K. are the candy makers.  When Cara visits, she brings me a care package of confectionary delights.  And Michelle, who taught Cara about candy making, rivals Willy Wanka and the Chocolate Factory.  When I stop by Michelle's house, she sends me into the candy room, with a festive paper bag in hand, to pick out whatever I want.  Deciding is a hard job, but someone has to do it.  Everything from caramel-nut turtles and peppermint bark to chocolate covered nuts and chocolate chip cookies wrapped around miniature, peanut butter cups are homemade with dark, milk or white chocolate.  Leave it to faithful friends like me to take some of Michelle's inventory off her hands.  It's a waist expanding experience, but my taste buds couldn't be happier.  Below is a recipe for old fashioned Almond Roca.  I hope the candy makers check in.

Almond Roca

Ingredients:

4 sticks butter

4 tablespoons water

2 cups sugar

2 cups slivered or chopped almonds

1 cup chocolate chips

½ cup finely chopped almonds for sprinkling

Makes about 36 servings.

Directions:

1) Before you start, grease an 18” x 13” pan and put it aside.

2) Combine the butter, water and sugar, one at a time, in a saucepan.  The mixture will be runny, “cheesy” and runny/smooth.  Cook on a high flame, stirring constantly through the three stages.  The runny/smooth stage will turn a caramel brown color.  It will be very hot, so be careful.

3) Remove the caramel mixture from the heat, and stir in the chopped almonds.  Combine well.

4) Next spread the caramel-almond “toffee” on the greased cookie sheet.

5) Sprinkle the toffee with chocolate chips.  After the chocolate melts, spread it across the top.

6) And finally, sprinkle the top with additional chopped almonds.

While the candy is still warm and soft, you can score the top to make it break evenly after it cools, or simply wait to break it up into rustic pieces.  Waiting for the candy to cool is the hardest part of all.

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The Ambiance Of A Brasa Fire

If you live in a house with a fireplace, you know how inviting it is to stay warm by nestling in front of the flames on a frigid, winter day.  Now there are products on the market to safely bring a fire to any room, or tabletop without having to install a traditional fireplace.

Compact and portable, Brasa Fires are ventless and fueled by renewable green energy.  They run on denatured alcohol [bio-ethanol], a biofuel made from agricultural products like corn, sugar and potatoes.  With chic and modern designs, Brasa Fires create atmosphere and add warmth wherever you put them.  Consider placing a Brasa  fireplace in a living room, or choose a slender fire lamp as a centerpiece for a coffee table, or outdoor patio table by a pool -- Ok, I'm dreaming!  

If you already have a fireplace, the company also sells burner inserts that can be placed into a masonry hearth, or the built-in fire setting in your home.  

Brasa Fires are suitable for houses and apartments alike.  They are easy to set up.  No installation is necessary.  Costs: $165 - $625.

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