A Day in Life in My Retro Shoes: I am Doing The Happy Dance!

Don't you feel happy when you can accomplish something in life while traveling through the rough terrain? Sometimes the road can get pretty bumpy. And at times your feet might start hurting. You then feel tired and discouraged and just want to give up. Then you take a break. Get something to drink and you start again. Then after a while of walking in that rough road you start seeing the bees visiting the wild flowers.The journey because less stressful even enjoyable at times. And when you less expected you finally reached your goal. And then you start doing the happy dance!

I am doing the happy dance! And do you know why? Well, I was finally able to finish what I had started!

You can find out more in the following video:

 And it sure feels good!


Chao,


Carmen Johnson





P.S. For more information on how to become an Interior Decorator visit: Ashworth College.


Copyright © 2006-2012. The Retrochic Corner. Carmen Johnson. A Retrotimes Productions Website. All Rights Reserved.

A Day in Life in My Retro Shoes: I am Determined to Graduate and Become an Interior Decorator!

 Several years ago my dear sister paid for my interior decorating school. My sister had studied to become an interior decorator and she knew that I would also enjoy learning about decorating.

Studying about something that I love helped me to keep my mind busy and positive. Instead of dwelling with my own self pity emotional issues because of my physical limitations, I felt that I was able to feed the starving creative and emotional side of me. I felt whole again.

Almost six years have passed and I haven't graduated yet. So what happened? Why didn't I keep up with my studies like I have promised myself?

Although I was super motivated to finish my studies I still had to deal with life.Yes, there were times that I had rather watch an old movie, listen to some jazz, and even blogging instead of picking up my books. And also there were times I questioned if I was ever going to work as an interior decorator.

But then was I only enjoying learning about decorating only because I might one day get a job as a decorator? The answer was, no. Decorating makes me feel happy. It brings me much joy and a sense of satisfaction to be able to transform a simple room into a more sophisticated and inviting place. I have always loved art, architect, designs, and the wonders of nature. So would I stop learning about these things because I can't become a famous artist or world renown biologist one day?

This time I am determined to finish what I had started! I am going to finish my classes and graduate and become an Interior Decorator!

Anyhow I loved to continue talking and chit chatting with you all. But I have to go and hit those books again. In the meanwhile you can watch me in action as I get ready to start studying:






Thanks for stopping by!


Chao,


Carmen Johnson



Copyright © 2006-2011. The Retrochic Corner. Carmen Johnson. A Retrotimes Productions Website. All Rights Reserved.

A Message from The Flapper Girl

The Flapper Girl wants to share a message to her audience... 

Lights!

Camera!

Action!

...Stay Tuned!

P.S. The Flapper Girl loves retro fashion, music, movies, and designs. The Leopard hat that she is wearing happened to be one of her favorites from Mark.

A French Decor Living Room Inspiration

Lately I have been trying to makeover my living room. So I have been looking everywhere for inspiration on French Decor.You all know how my dream is to go one day to Paris France. Although at the moment I am not able to travel to Paris, or anywhere else, I love to just day dream of a lovely French home right in the middle of Paris.

And here is exactly what I vision the place to look like:

Just perfect!


Au revoir,


Carmen

The City Picnic

This past weekend doggie, hubby, and I went for a relax picnic in the city. Although I live in the city I really consider myself a nature out-doorsy kind of gal. The weather that afternoon was around 75 degrees. Perfect for a Florida fall picnic!

Here is Chewie and me enjoying time together. In the background you can see our little picnic setting under the tree. And on the right side of the picture you can see the lake. I believe always having a picnic near the water. And here in Florida there are tons of lakes, rivers, and ocean to choose from!

I had about an hour or so to prepare for our picnic. So I grabbed my Bohemian Girl Collection tote bag and picnic basket and packed food, drinks, blankets, towels, games, and reading materials.

Reading outdoors is the best thing ever! The fresh air and the serene sounds of nature adds to the ambiance.

Here is one of the books that we brought along to read: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. Several weeks ago hubby and I were watching the film based on this novel. I told my husband that I had never read the book. He happened to have a copy in his library. So at the picnic I started reading the first chapter of the book. So far I have enjoyed the writing style of the author. I think it's one of my favorites along with Jane Austen novels.

Can't forget to bring provisions to the picnic. This darling picnic basket was given to me by my mom.

I have been on a strict diet lately. So I made sure to pack plenty of fruits for our outing.

What is a picnic without visual inspiration? In this Vogue 2010 May issue I enjoyed the vintage styles of the past. And while I turned the pages of Vogue I enjoyed my delicious hearty apple.

Here is doggie and me having some activity time.

A little exercise is great for both of us.

Being that I had been in doors for quite some time now, It was truly great to feel healthier again and to reconnect with nature once again!

Chao,


Carmen

My Cruel & Lovin Summer

Many have wondered how was my Summer. And all I can think about is that song from the 80's "It' a cruel, cruel Summer. Leaving me here on my own. It's a cruel, cruel Summer."

I rather had hope I had a Summer lovin. But unfortunately it wasn't. Summer was cruel and not to kind to me.

It's not that I blamed Summer for my problems But it was what happened during the days of Summer that had turned my life to almost a 360 degree turn.

Like I mentioned in my Time Warp Wives October letter and comment I had to take a much needed hiatus. I had become very sick to the point of going to the E.R. It was like no other thing I have felt before in my life. And up to this day I still don't know what it was.

This all happened during the week of my Retro Fashion Week 2010 event . I was in the middle of my event when I started with a horrendous sore throat. It reminded me of a a strep throat infection several years ago. I had difficulty to swallow , eat, and talk. In the middle of all that I was able to do some of lined up radio interviews for the event, plus some P.R. work while dealing with that throat pain. 

Anyhow to make a long story short this particular virus triggered a bad response to my already fragile frame.

For the past 12 years I had been dealing with a really bad disease called Lupus, which is an autoimmune disease.This disease struck me in the prime of my life. In my case it might have all started with a combination of a virus and antibiotics.

After I had been diagnosed with this disease, my life wasn't the same. Years prior to that I was a healthy and active girl that loved to travel and help others to learn about the Bible. I  wanted to become a flight attendant and to travel all over the world and to meet new people. I had hopes and dreams like any other girl.

After many years of taming the beast I was able to function somewhat as a normal girl. Then about 4 years later everything changed again. That was when I had my first strep throat infection. At that time I was living in Illinois. I was given antibiotics. This "doctor's assistance" had also prescribed a high dose of a Thyroid medication, which almost killed me. Another doctor later told me that I didn't need that medication at all.

So again my immune system was compromised and I started to feel sick again.

Then came the roller coaster ride.

After that last episode I developed IBS and Crohn's disease. Trust me having both of these diseases is like having a two headed Loch Ness monster living inside you!

In my personal experience Crohn's has been the worst one for me. With Lupus I was to able to figure the right treatment for me. And within 6- 8 months the wolf hibernated.

Trying to figure out the best way to treat Crohn's was and it still is difficult and very frustrating. One reason is because one day you may eat on particular food and you are okay. But then two weeks later that same food may trigger a response. I have problems especially with eggs, meats, fruits, vegetables, and the list goes on and on.

I have had Crohn's for the past 7 years. I have tried all sorts of things. Some things were good and other things were not to good. At then end I still couldn't figure out how to tame this beast completely.

Several years ago I found a great alternative doctor here in my home town. At that time Crohn's was slowly eating me away. This doctor saved my life with. IV fluids and this natural treatment that helped my stomach start healing again. After a while I was able to enjoy food again and to have a social life without having to run to the bathroom all the time.

While I was getting better I again had to deal with another blow to my health. In a matter of one year I was involved in three car accidents. The last one totaled our car. And it gave both my husband and I herniated disks. Which at times it makes it hard for me to do any physical activities.

Going back to my throat infection during my cruel Summer days. I thought that this throat infection was going to last a week or so. And then I would get better.

Boy, I was wrong!

This infection ended up making my Crohn's, IBS, and perhaps it awoke my Lupus again. And that was when I ended up going to the E.R.

At the E.R. they ran some test here and there. After they didn't find anything major, they said that I should follow up with my doctor.

Unfortunately for the past three years I have had no medical insurance. Also I haven't had a chance to visit with my natural doctor since my husband first lost his job.

So that was when I decided to come up with a new game plan. I wasn't going to allow this thing to continue taking the upper hand.

I am thrilled to say that this past week I finally came across a natural product that helps folks who have Crohns, Celiac, IBD, and other similar diseases. I have hope that medicine will bring me relief. I can't wait to start the treatment!

The reason why I wanted to blog again during my healing process was because I have missed it. Retro living is one of my favorite things that I love talking about. When you are at home all day with no energy and having to deal with constant pain you start feeling sorry for yourself.

There are times that it is a struggle to get out of bed and to fix breakfast. And to top things out. my house chores are done when it is necessary. Not been able to clean the house the way I am used to drives me bananas! Cooking, clean dishes, and laundry are the only priority right now. And sometimes they are not even done! And the rest of the house just have to wait.

How I wish to have Mary Popins over to bring back some order in my home!

Having to enjoy time with friends and family has also been a lifeline for me. They all have supported me through out this whole ordeal. And I am very thankful for that!

For me the best joy that I could ever feel is to share with my neighbors the hope of a better world.You might one day see me at your door and I will say, "Hello how are you? My name is Carmen Johnson  I am one of Jehovah's Witnesses and I am here today to share with you about a future were sickness and death will be no more."

Like the miners that were trapped in Chile, who thanked God for sustaining them. That hope and faith in God has sustained me through this ordeal and my entire life!

I thank you all for your support and well wishes!

Now let's have fun!

Chao,

Carmen Johnson

Retro Fashion Week 2010!

Time Warp Wives along with our parent company Retrotimes Productions are thrilled to announce our very first online Retro Fashion Week event! Here is a special sneak peek of our event:

Retrotimes Productions and Time Warp Wives present:

Retro Fashion Week 2010!

The dates for Retro Fashion Week 2010 are:

May 17, 2010 - May 23, 2010.

What to expect in Retro Fashion Week?

Retro Fashion Week is a week long international online interactive event featuring the latest in Retro Fashion, Beauty, & Designs!

Unlike the regular Fashion Week, our Retro Fashion Week is all about our passion for vintage and retro fashion!

In making this event possible we are looking for retro fashionistas from all over the world who would like to participate in the event. We are especially looking for:

1- Retro Fashion Designers

2- Retro Beauty Companies

3- Vintage & Retro Shop Owners

4- Retro Star Artist, Models, Photographers, & Fashion Consultants

5- Beauty Salon Owners, Hair Stylist, & Makeup Artist

6- Retro Performers, Singers, and Dancers

7- Talented Retro Fashionistas that love making hair and makeup tutorial videos

8- Retro Fashion Artist & Illustrators

9- Fashion Book Authors & Retro Magazine Publishers & Editors

10- Sponsors that would love to promote with us

If you are interested in participating or promoting with us sign up today to be part of the fun!

Retro Fashion Week 2010!

If you have any questions you are welcome to email us at timewarpwives@yahoo.com.

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

My Interview on Dieselpunks!

I am so excited to announce that I had the privilege of being interviewed by Tome Wilson from Dieselpunks! In my interview you will find where and how my passion for retro living started. Where I get my inspirations. And how I came to be the woman that I am today.

Being featured and interviewed for the Dieselpunk and Steampunk communities has been such a wonderful honor. I thank Tome for granting me such an opportunity to share my passion for retro living!

And in case you haven't heard about the Dieselpunks or Steampunks cultures, I invite you to visit: Dieselpunks.Org! You will find this website so interesting and fascinating!


Here is the link to my interview article on the Dieselpunks website:
"Interview Carmen Johnson of Retrotimes Productions"



Have a fun weekend!


Chao,


Carmen

My Pretty Top is Out of Stock?

I totally am looking forward to Spring! For one thing I can't wait to see what's new in Spring fashion. Right now what's in fashion is mend, alter, and cut. Pretty much you have to be your own seamstress and pray that you don't end up looking like Lucy on that episode when she made her own dress. Trust me, if that was in real life you will end up in the funny house!

So what's the other option? Well sometimes you do feel like getting something new, fresh, and unused once in a while. I am a girl that loves window shopping online and in person. When I do window shopping I get inspired, I get a work out, and at that moment I have no money!

But then there happened to be that perfect item that I totally would fall in love with. So I wait for several weeks to save up to buy it. Then after several weeks later I have reached my goal and I am ready to make my purchase. I'll run to the store or to my favorite online store, and there it is my perfect top. But then in a matter of seconds my happy face becomes a frown. There underneath my pretty top is an ugly note that reads: Out of Stock!

"What? I can't believe it. But didn't I just came to this store a few days ago and there were still selling my top?"

So then I would try refreshing the page to make sure that it wasn't a computer glitch. I would go around the store to make sure that maybe they must have that shirt in another rack. So after I looked and looked everywhere, I realized that yes my top was sold to that girl that perhaps have not a closet, but a whole room the size of my house full of clothes that she doesn't even wear!

But then do I feel defeated? No! So I go around and look for something similar to my top. I can't get all upset for a top. And plus that top may not even really looked good on me. As a matter of fact I don't even think that I really like the colors.

Then there in front of me I found another pretty top. This top has everything that I was looking for. The cut is perfect. The pattern is pretty, just the way I love it. It's in my favorite color. This is definitively the top for me!

So then later on that evening as I would leave the house with my hubby for a nite out he ask me, "That is a nice top. Where did you get it?"

"Oh this old thing. Well I got it out of my closet. I totally forgot I even had it."

"Well it's looks great on you!"

"Thank you baby!"

That sure made my day. Hubby loves my top. I didn't spend a dime. Here it was the complement that I was looking for.

In a way that "Out of Stock", can be a blessing in disguise.



Chao,


Carmen

Down Time with Mom!

I have been enjoying some girly down time lately. These past few weeks have been especially perfect for me because my mom is in town! I cherish every moment that I have with my mom. How I miss being near her!

In this picture my mom is caring for her brother's children. Since she was very young my mom loved taking care of others. She is that kind of person that will leave everything in a moments notice to help family and friends. And although she studied in one of the best Universities in Miami, she is the kind of person that didn't believe that a career defines a person. But that showing love and kindness to others is what really defines and makes a person special.

Mom always taught us children to enjoy the simple things in life. We learned to live with little. And to be content with what we had. And although at times things were hard for us, we always had everything that we really needed. And that was the love that we had for each other.

My mom has always been that warm blanket for me for when things get gloomy and gray. And she has been that cheerleader for me on my many dreams and endeavors in life

I think that it's so important for a girl to have somebody to trust and confine in. I am very blessed to have somebody that is not only my mother, but that is also my confidant, teacher, cheerleader, and friend!


I Love you mom!


Thanks for always being there for me!



From gatica with love!

Meet Me in Tokyo!

I have been always fascinated by the culture, food, and architect of the Orient. So that is why I designed "Meet me in Tokyo". I wanted to build a scene where a couple is enjoying a carriage ride through the city lights and buildings of Tokyo. I wanted to use three main colors for my design: red, black and metallic gray colors, to bring out the ambiance of the city colors predominantly used in Tokyo. At the end I added the lamps on the sides of the building. My
Bohemian Girl Sofie is dressed in her Kimono, and course I couldn't forget to add her flapper Bohemian Girl signature hat! Meet Me in Tokyo has an of Orient feel but with a touch of retrochic feel!

To purchase my Bohemian Girl Collection design tote bags and t-shirts you are welcome to visit my shop: Bohemian Girl Shop.


I totally love Sushi food. So I wanted to share with you some tips and a recipe in How To Throw A Sushi Party by EHow.Com.

What you will Need:

Maki Sus
Avocados Slices
Cucumber Slices
Fish
Miso Soups
Pickled Radishes
Sake
Seaweeds(nori)
Squashes
Sushi Rice
Vinegared Ginger
Wasabi
Chopsticks


Steps:

1-Use a table that is low to the ground.

2-Provide pillows as chairs.

3-For each person, set out a large plate, a small plate such as a saucer, a steamed facecloth and chopsticks.

4-Set out two to three plates of prepared wasabi and vinegared ginger.

5-Provide one or two bottles of soy sauce.

6-Cut fish into sashimi slices and arrange them on large platters.

7-Provide other fillings, such as cucumber slices, avocado slices, squash and pickled radish.

8-Provide side dishes such as sunomono (pickled octopus), edamame (fresh green soybeans boiled in salted water) and miso soup.

9-Cut nori (seaweed) into 4-by-4-inch squares and stack onto two plates.

10-Provide shari (sushi rice) in a large wooden bowl.

11-Provide sake (rice wine) or Japanese beer.

12-Pass around the nori, rice and fish and have each person assemble his or her own sushi rolls.



Enjoy!



Chao,


Carmen

All Cakes Considered

Lately I have been having some major craving for cakes. I don't know if it's because it's cold outside or because of hormones. But today when I went with hubby to the market and I quickly picked up a pound cake. I know that a pound cake doesn't sound that exciting. Though for me it's like a big treat!

There are several reasons why we are keeping sweets away from our home. The first reason is because of health reason. For almost over 10 years I pretty much stopped eating cakes. But it didn't mean that I couldn't try other alternatives. Though over time I also had to stopped eating sweets.

My hubby on the other hand could eat everything he wanted. And he still can. Though he is reaching that age where if he eats too much sweets he feels it the next day.

Like the other day he had bought a chocolate chip cookie at his favorite book store. And the next day he had a tummy ache. I had asked him what he had eaten the night before. After he listed all the things he ate he then added, "Oh, and I ate a chocolate chip cookie." Then I asked him, "how big was the cookie?" He said that it was a big cookie. I said, "That is probably why you are not feeling good today. Perhaps the cookie gave you a stomach ache."

What was hubby response? "Oh no I don't think it was the chocolate chip cookie, perhaps it was something else that I ate. But it wasn't the cookie." All of the sudden I felt that I was trying to reason with cookie monster. Yum, yum cookie! At the end I couldn't reason with him.

The story didn't end there. Just last week hubby again had the chocolate chip cookie from the bookstore. And guess what happened the next day. Yes, cookie monster had a tummy ache. And he wasn't happy about it. So I reminded him what had happened before. And do you think that he remembered? Not only did he forgot the incident with the cookie, but he defended it. Yes, sugar can do that to you sometimes.

That is why we refrain from buying certain sweets. It's true that once in awhile we do bring some ice cream for hubby and some Dove chocolates for me. For us it is a sweet-luxury to bring
these items into our home.

This book All Cakes Considered, is a great book for those who love to try different cake recipes. Doesn't these cakes look delicious? Although I don't bake cakes, I wouldn't mind having this book in my kitchen. Perhaps I could substitute the flour and yeast with other alternative ingredients.

Today after dinner we are having several slices of the pound cake. I will have mine with a sugar free strawberry jello. And hubby is going to have his with a sugar free pudding.

I believe in once in awhile having a sweet treat after a meal. And a lot of love in the family!




Chao,


Carmen

The Office Secretary Outfit

A lot of gals have had to go back to the workforce. And that means one thing: Shopping time! Now because fashion seems to change in a blink of an eye and the budget is tight the best solution is then to shop for a smart classic look.

Here is my take of the office secretary classic outfit. I totally love this office secretary ensemble that I found at Mod Cloth ! The dress is by Bettie Page. And even though I don't work at an office building, I still consider myself my husband's secretary. Just a few minutes ago he asked me where his favorite pen was. Well, besides helping him look for lost items, I take care of our house budget. I pay the bills. And I make suggestions with many purchases, like finding our cute little home and our automobile.

And of course for his appreciation of my hard work he brings me flowers! Like he did yesterday.




These glamours metallic pinkish gray sandals from Zappos and made by Naturalizer will look great with your new classic secretary dress! Just remember to make sure that your toes are beautifully polished. It's important to always look presentable, no matter how crazy things get.






Now a secretary always makes sure to carry her notebook, pens, cell phone, and of course her compact powder. And what best then this powdery pink handbag by McKlein to complete the look! Now the only way that you can purchase this bag is if your boss gives you a rise. So be brave and ask for one!


Yes, gals you too can look put together with this classic secretary outfit no matter if you work at home or at the office.



Chao,


Carmen

The Gibson Girl

Have you ever heard about the Gibson Girl? The picture above is by Charles Dana Gibson. He was an American graphic artist that created his pen sketch collection of the Gibson Girl. His designs was an iconic representation of the beautiful and independent American woman at the turn of the 20th century.

Mr. Gibson works were depicted in major publications like Life magazines, Harpers Weekly, and Collier's. From late nineteenth and early twentieth Gibson's fictional images were extremely popular. There was merchandising of "saucers, ashtrays, tablecloths, pillow covers, chair covers, souvenir spoons, screens, fans, umbrella stands", all bearing her image.

Some people argue that the "Gibson Girl" was the first national standard for feminine beauty. All I could say is that I totally love this art! Mr. Gibson made sketches look pretty and delicate.



This is my Gibson Girl tote bag that I had bought several years ago from the Victorian Trading Company. It is still one of my favorites!




And by the way Victorian Trading Company carries several designs of the Gibson Girl. Just the other day I told my hubby that we were down to just two drinking glasses. And when I went to check out the latest thing in this store I was excited to see these pretty Gibson Girl glasses!


Perfect for a party with girlfriends!



Chao,


Carmen

Research: Wikipedia. Photo: Creative Commons. Copyright Has Expired.

Youtube Makeup Review: Besame Cosmetics!

I finally finished editing my very first video makeup review on Youtube:
My Favorite Retro Makeup: Besame Cosmetics!



I am totally excited about this makeup that I can't stop talking about it. And what I am also excited is that finally I got to take some pictures that really showed the real color of these fabulous makeup!

Now mind you, my video didn't have good lighting, which ended up looking vintagey. So I had to add these two photos of me wearing Besame Cosmetics to the video. Now the ladies could appreciate these products.


And voila!











I can't wait to order more makeup! I know exactly what I want!


To buy these wonderful makeup I invite you to visit: Besame Cosmetics.




Chao,



Carmen

Photos: Copyright © 2010 Carmen Johnson.

Passion For Flamenco

One of my passions of all times has been flamenco! I have been fascinated with this dance since I was a little girl. Though it wasn't until I was older that I really wanted to learn it. When I was living in Miami Beach I started attending a dance school. And the moment I started my very first lesson I realized that this type of dance takes a lot of strength and energy. The next day I was sore from the tip of my head to all the way to my feet. I knew that it would take several more lessons to get my body used to this kind of dance.

After a while, like everything in life I got distracted with other pursuits. I would still though continue dancing flamenco at home and at events where they had flamenco music. I do want to one day start taking flamenco lessons again. I know that I am not as young and agile as I once was. Though I can still enjoy this amazing passionate dance at my own pace.

Oh and by the way,The Flamenco Festival 2010 is coming to New York and Miami! You will have a chance to enjoy the performances of renowned dancers and musicians from Spain. For more information you can read: Time Warp Wives February 2010 Letter.



Isn't dress spectacular? I just love the feminine details it has. I found this dress in one of my favorites website Flamenco World! Besides the clothes and shoes that you can buy there, you will find this one of the best website source of flamenco on the internet.



Chao,


Carmen

Photo: Photobucket

Living in a Time Warp, story on CNN!

This past week several vintage folks and myself were featured on CNN Ireport, Living In a Time Warp! I thank Mr. Hanks for the wonderful coverage story that he did on Time Warp Wives and Time Warp Living! We absolutely enjoyed reading about the different folks and their passion for vintage living!

It's has been definitely a very exciting and crazy week for me. I seriously can't keep up with the sudden flux of emails and visitors from all over the world! I told my hubby that I would need several more hands to be able to keep up with the demand. Good thing that last month I hired new talented Time Warp Interns. Such help came at the right time!

On the other hand I don't think that I am used to all of this attention. I rather interview folks then being interviewed myself. I can't help it, but that is the reporter in me. Though I have to say that from this experience it gave me a chance to read what other people think. So yes, there were some positive comments about the story and also negative ones. Oh well, that comes with the territory.

At the same time I have several folks lined up to be interviewed, which I am totally ecstatic about!



Smile and be happy!



Chao,



Carmen

40's Style Silky Dress

Today was a pretty winter's day. So I felt like taking my camera and doing some photo shoot in my backyard. Because it has been so cold here in Florida, I haven't had a chance to wear short sleeve dresses in a while. So today was a perfect day to wear my silky black dress from JCPenny's!




One of the best features of this dress is the style and the cut. And although this dress is not vintage, it definitely has that 40's vintage flare, which I absolutely love!





To add a little sparkle to my ensemble, I added my silvery necklace and earrings that I got from Avon!






The best feature of this dress is the empire style top. Here you can appreciate the details of the design. Very couture chic don't you think?






I added my silvery bow belt to the dress. Not too bad looking.







To finish my photo shoot I did a swing. Then I came back inside my house because it started to get cold again.




Chao,



Carmen







True Fact: I used to love dancing to the fifties. When I was in my mid 20's I attended a friend's party and I started to dance to the twist. Then all of the sudden I twisted my knee out of the socket. That was the end of my twisting days. When I went to see my doctor he said that he used to see more patient with this problem way back in his days. Now I understand why so many middle age folks are having knee surgery.

Photos: Copyright © 2010 Carmen Johnson.

An Interview with Johanna Öst!

One day, when I was looking for retro inspiration online I stumbled upon my next interviewee Johanna Öst! At a first glance when I first saw Johanna's photos she reminded me of Marilyn Monroe. Then as I looked closer I realized that she also resembled Shirley Temple. I won't be surprised that this girl will one day get Hollywood's attention.

This girl from Sweden is not only pretty, but she is very talented and very creative. Johanna arts and illustration are well-known throughout the internet. She is also a history student at her University. And she speaks fluent Swedish and English, and a bit of French.

This gal loves clothes, beauty, and vintage fashion. She started "The Wardrobe Project," to clean out her wardrobe, which I thought was a fun and clever idea for any girl to do. Johanna incorporated every garment into a great outfit, in which she would take a picture of. Now she has a catalog of great outfits for inspiration.

And how she loves Disney and Barbie!


Here is my interview with Johanna Öst:

I've always had this wish to have a 'glamorous' life, which pretty much meant wearing pretty vintagey and princessy outfits all the time, but I never felt like I could give up all the other great clothes that didn't fit that aesthetic. Then my style sort of naturally evolved into that ideal anyway."

Johanna loves clothes, beauty, and vintage fashion. She said that she loves lots of other styles as well, but that she feels the the vintage style is the ultimate for her. As long as she can remember Johanna always loved looking through old magazines and pictures and the typical glamorous 50's and 60's bombshell has always been something of an aesthetic ideal to her.

We asked Johanna what her dream job would be. "I would love to be able to live more comfortably off my art and illustration work, but I'd also love working at a museum with historical clothing. Ideally I'd do both."


To read more visit:
Time Warp Wives Interviews



Chao,



Carmen

Tiffany's & Blue Eye Mask

God morning Holly! by vivien22

These winter blues have finally caught up with me. I totally feel like Holly from Breakfast at Tiffany's. Almost every morning I have been sleeping in until my doggie wakes me up. But instead of strolling down Fifth Avenue and admiring pretty jewelry at Tiffany's, I am strolling down my hallway to my Paris Room and getting my soft blanket, which I bring over to the living room so I can lay on the couch again.

You know that I have felt so relax lately. For several months I had been dealing with stress and sadness that seem not to go away. So I felt that I had to make some changes in how I deal with stresses in life. And trust me there is plenty of crazy stressing things out there for everyone to share.

With the help of my hubby and past experiences I came up with my own anti-distressing to do list. And here it is:

1- Bible Reading Everyday. I have been a good girl in not skipping breakfast and my Bible reading. Reading the Bible is very powerful and comforting at the same time.

2- Can't Watch News. Sorry Anderson Cooper. This one was very hard for me, because I am a girl that cares for what is happening in the world. Though whenever I finished watching the news my mood will go from feeling blue to clinical sadness. Not a good thing.

3- Stretches, Exercise, & Massages. This is a must for me, especially that I had to deal with a back injury from several car accidents. At my therapist I learned some pilates. If I don't do stretches everyday, I am in pain and pretty much miserable. Also I started to do some indoor exercise with my stationary bike. And when the weather is comfortable I take my doggie for a run on my three wheel Bike. We both come back home feeling renewed. Every week I ask hubby for a massage. Even when I don't plan one, it seems like I always need one every seven days.

4- Thinking Positive. Sometimes you can be your worst enemy. And when you are feeling the blues, "Misery likes company". So whenever my thoughts or words start coming out negative, I immediately change the channel. I try to keep my self busy with fun positive things that make me feel relaxed and happy. Although there are times when you can't control the world around you. You can still control how your mind deals with such things. For me this is the most difficult thing in my list.

5- I have to go to bed early. I am still working on that. Hubby comes back from work late at night. And I and doggie stay up waiting for him.


So far these steps has truly helped me. And I feel happier!


This pass week I saw Breakfast at Tiffany's again. I said again because I just finished watching the whole movie a few weeks ago. Then there was Holly all sleepy when she opened the door to "Fred, Baby". And that is when I realized how cute were her Tiffany Blue Eye Mask! I totally love the eye lashes and gold trim! And also she had these stylish looking ear plugs. I actually found a similar eye mask and ear plugs. I have yet to decide if I want to purchase them, or if I can make my own. I think that it would be a good project to do. Anyhow I am too sleepy right now to make a decision.


Darling, I have to tell you that wearing pajamas all day is all so liberating!



Chao,



Carmen