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.

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

Retro Shopping at Target!

As a retro lover, I spend some of my time researching and browsing through the internet and visiting my favorites vintage stores. Two days ago, I decided to visit some stores that I haven't been in a while. So I went to Target, looking for that special item, and there it was, not one, nor two, but a whole collection of retro dresses and accessories for sale! I was totally blown away by all of these selections! For the last two days I have been walking on cloud nine.


Here are just a few retro items that caught my eye:


























And the best part in shopping at Target, is the unbeatable price!



Chao,



Carmen

Fantasy Retro Dream Home

For all of you retro lovers out there, this is what my retro dream home would look like! A silver retro trailer attached to a vintage woody wagon! Simple outdoor living, with an hint of sophistication! I am totally loving it!

Even though I love being in my little quite home, and I love my neighborhood, deep down inside I am a very adventurous gal. You see I came from a family that wasn't afraid to get up and move to another town, city, or country. The longest that I lived in one place is three years. We never really didn't have time to settled down like many families do. My dad will come one afternoon from work and would say, "It's time to move." My mom and us four kids knew the drill. And within that day we were packed, in the car, and ready to go.

So when I asked a friend how long they have been living in their house, and they say, "I have lived here all my life," I find it really strange and amusing. I can't fathom being in one place for all my life. I think that most of my life learning came from my experiences of living in different places. That is way I love traveling!

I always wanted to have my own retro trailer and travel throughout the states. And I am not just saying for vacation, but that is how I would love to live. I know that it sounds pretty crazy for many people, but I think that being stuck and one area is quite boring.

For several months my hubby and I was thinking of making a big move. The job market was bad where we live. So we put our home in the market. And hoping that we can sell it, and move to a new location! I was all for it. I was ready to start a new chapter in our lives. And the best part of it my hubby was also!

You see my hubby also grew up moving from one place to another. Just listening to his stories about how he grew up, was like if we both grew up together. Finding that we were in this together gave me a chance to share my plans. Yes, I started with, "Oh, my goodness I would like for us to get a silver trailer and travel through out the states! You can get the job that you want. We can can stay at different locations. If we get bored we just pick up and go. Wouldn't that be great"?

My hubby then said, "huh. living in a trailer?" Yes, I did say trailer. Hubby was a bit surprised. You see several years ago before we bought this house, hubby suggested for us to buy a mobile home. I was not 100% convinced about living in a mobile home. Living here in Florida with hurricanes and tornadoes, and imagining that we were not in Kansas anymore, made me think twice in moving to a mobile home.

My idea about us traveling all over the States in our cute little retro home on wheels, made my hubby a little apprehensive. He was definitely ready to move to another state, though not in a home on wheels. He then explained the reasons: "It is more expensive than renting a place and we will be cramped in this very, very small place."

And that is when I knew that my hubby is not as adventurous as I thought he was.

So at the end I couldn't convince hubby. In the meanwhile I kept on dreaming about how our lives will be if we traveling in our retro home. Then that is when I saw this movie: The Long, Long Trailer (1954; MGM).

This is the very first technicolor movie that Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz appeared on. This movie is about honeymooners who buy a trailer home and soon encounter the problems of living in a house on wheels.

When I first saw the beginning of the movie, I was totally excited! Here it was the very thing that I am dreaming of doing. The wife dreamed of having a little place to call her home. And she got her dream, when she was able to convince her husband in getting the trailer. And after they were off in starting their new life living in a trailer, that was when things started to really look ugly for them and for the trailer.

There was one scene where they went to a heavily wooded area just like the picture above. Though imagine the scene with a torrential rain. The trailer ended side ways and stuck in the mud. That scene was so funny for the first few minutes, until I thought that that could easily be me and my hubby under those same circumstances. My hands literally started to sweat.

Even though my retro dream home fantasy came to a screeching stop. It didn't dampen the possibility that hubby and I could one day own our silvery vintage trailer... of course only for vacation purposes!


Chao,


Carmen

P.S. I am totally enjoying my Sunday with the live broadcast from the Cidada Club! Enjoy your week!

Photo: Flickr Creative Commons.

Phonograph Gallery in Paris

I always wanted to have a phonograph! Playing an old record on a phonograph is like trying on a vintage dress, until you wear it you don't have the full vintage experience. Several months ago we went to a vintage shop and saw this beautifully elegant phonograph. And the best part of it was that it was a working phonograph! Now what are the odds of that? And of course because it was in mint working condition, and well persevered it was always very expensive.

I came across a website called "Phonogallery". They are located in Paris France, of course. They sell phonographs, gramophones, cylinders, and much more. They also sell phonograph parts, and they even repair them, which is great if you happened to buy one that doesn't work. And if you happened to be working on a project and need a phonograph, well they to rent them out! Now that is swell!


Here are some pictures from their gallery:




















And if you happened to know of a nice little old lady that is giving away her phonograph, just let me know, I will send my agent over. Thanks!




Chao,



Carmen

Photos: Photogallerie.com on Flickr Creative Commons.

In Vogue: The Illustrated History

The other day hubby and I went to the book store for some relaxation and inspiration. Yes, we both are book worm, though he more than me. We have this routine where we both get our different reading materials and then we meet in one of those comfy chairs. So I went to my favorite girly fashion and beauty isle, while he went to the history section. Then that is when I saw the new beautifully illustrated book, "In Vogue: The Illustrated History of the World's Most Famous Fashion Magazine." I have been wanting to get my hands on this book since it's been out. And there it was right in front of my nose!

This book is a compilation of illustrations and fashion of Vogue magazine throughout history. My first impression: This book is dark, tall, and handsome!

The white and black photograph on the cover of the book caught my attention. I wanted to right away dive into it's pages. This book is as big as an encyclopedia! So when I tried to pick it up from the shelf, I realized that I needed man power. So I asked hubby to help me take it to my seat.

After I finally sat down and got cozy, and I opened the first few pages, I knew that this will be a book that many fashionistas would want to have. This book is filled with vintage pictures and illustrations that made Vogue famous. I especially loved the stories behind the scenes. You will get to learn the different takes and techniques that photographers had back many years ago. It's interesting to note how models and fashion have changed over the years. As a retrochic, I loved looking at the fashion photos of the 20's through the 60's.

For me this book is one of the most beautiful fashionpedia book that I have ever seen. If you like Vogue, fashion, and history of fashion this is the book for you!

I wish that I could have taken this book home. It is quite the price for my modest pocketbook. At the book store it cost $75. But don't worry, you can still buy it used for about half the price, which is worth every penny!


I just love fashion inspiration!



Chao,



Carmen

Train Traveling Case

My dream vacation will be to travel with hubby by train through Europe! Just thinking about it makes my heart warm and cozy. And what girl doesn't want a lovely traveling case to take with her?

I had spotted this vintage traveling case a few months ago at an Etsy shop called Nineteen O' Three. And like an elegant lady, it is waiting for someone to ask her for a dance. The seller did a wonderful job in restoring the traveling case. She even added a few little touches here and there, making this traveling case one of a kind.

Sooo retro Parisian!
















I haven't gone to my favorite vintage shop in a while. I am hoping that one of these days a nice traveling case like this one shows up. And I will make sure to give it a great home!


Hope that you all have a pleasant weekend!



Chao,



Carmen

Self Service is for the Birds!

Today while my hubby and I where in the gas station, I happened to see a lady using a tire gauge. I thought for a moment how I admire an independent woman that knows how to take care of her car. And the reason that I thought this was because I am not such a woman.
If I ever have to air up my tire, I will be an a pickle!

You see even if I know how to air up my car, I rather not do it. And that goes for anything that is involved with car maintenance. I don't intend to learn how to use a tire gauge, air up my tire, much less change a tire.

Even when it comes to gasing up my car, I rather have somebody else do it for me. The gas fumes make me dizzy and I don't like that I have to touch the "thingy" hose (hubby just told me it's called, nozzle). Everytime I have to gas up my car I feel like I need to go home and take a shower. I can't help it, I am a girly girl.

Scenario: Here you are about to go to a job interview. You noticed that your gas is low. You drive to the cheapest gas station. You get out of your car wearing your favorite shoes. You gas up the car, gasoline drops fall on your shoes and your life is ruined!

Wish: That somebody was there to help you.

Solution: Please bring back the boys! Bring back the full service gas station attendants!


Wouldn't it be nice to stay in your car and have somebody take care of the dirty job? I know that you have to tip these hard working boys. Though it would be worth every dollar that you give them!



Full Service Please!



Chao,



Carmen

Photo: Creative Commons

Weekend Bag

I am always looking for retro inspired items. So when I spotted this red Original Penguin retro bag from Munsingwear, I knew that it was love at first sight! I always love red handbags. My mom gave me as a gift many years ago a red messenger bag that I used through high school. After then I never go without having at least a red bag in my closet.

This Penguin Retro bag is perfect for that weekend getaway. It is stylish and yet sturdy enough for a trip. This bag comes not only in red, but it also comes in black and white.

Lately I am totally into the 60's fashion. And this red Penguin retro bag is totally a mod bag!



That is why I had to add this bag to my wish list!



Chao,


Carmen

Cat Eyes, Baby!

Meow, I just love cat eye frames! Cat Eye glasses is a must have for any retro wardrobe. Cat Eye glasses are for me the most alluring of all glasses. Think of that librarian that doesn't seem to know anything about fashion. She loves to wear conservative clothing, comfortable pumps and a scarf around her neck. But then there was that one item that stand out, it was her cat eye glasses. You thought she was only book smart. Then you noticed that all of this time she knew how to dress fashionably. And that her wearing cat eye glasses was all the sparkle she needed, nothing more, nothing less.






These black pair of glasses are perfect for that smart and yet sassy girl!






These pretty gold ones reminded me of Lisa Loeb's cat eye glasses.




Are you the daring type of gal? These rhinestones glasses will be the one for you!



Have a great week!



Chao,


Carmen

My Dream Sofa!

I found the vintage sofa of my dreams! Nope, I haven't bought this vintage sectional sofa. I wish! I happened to be window shopping at Etsy when I spotted her. I couldn't wait to share this great vintage find with you!



What I first love about this sofa it's the style. The curvy lines makes her look sophisticated. The second thing that I love about this sofa is the beautiful floral pattern. The colors are also a plus for me, because I already have those same colors through out my house. Isn't that round table cute? I just love it!





Another plus is that this sofa comes with a built-in side table. Isn't that super cleaver! As an almost interior decorator, I see so much potential with this great sectional. Depending on your living room arrangement you can pretty much place these sectional together side by side. Or you can even have it facing each other. I love this sofa flexibility!





What do I love about this sofa? Well, everything!

The best part of having a sectional like this is that it would be perfect for a party! It would be swell to even have a 50's or 60's party with this vintage sofa!

For now, I will be adding her to my wish list.

Perhaps one of these days a lovely old lady neighbor will want to give away her well preserved vintage sectional to me. And I will promise my neighbor that I will keep the plastic on.

Did anyone watched the Oprah Show about the 60's? I totally missed it! If you happen to know where I can watch it online, will you be so kind to let me know? I surely will appreciate it!


Thanks!


Chao,


Carmen

Vanity Accesories

I went window shopping today at my favorite Victorian Trading Co, online shop and I came across these lovely accessories for my vanity. I know that you too will be inspired by these timeless items.



I have always thought to start a perfume atomizer collection. I think that using a perfume atomizer is so retrochic and elegant, don't you think? I think every girl should have a least a perfume atomizer on her vanity!

Details: Perfume Atomizer Bottle, Trinket Box, Cosmetic Brush. Glistening crystals are meticulously hand set upon an enameled ensemble intended for primping. Atomizer 4½". Box 3". Brush 6".



I know that these pocket watches are not your usual vanity accessories decor. Though if you observe closely these are actually pocket watch that contain solid perfume, spectacular I might say! And the great thing about these is that you can carry your pocket watch perfume whenever you go out, is like bringing a piece of your vanity with you.

Details: Solid Perfume in a Pocket Watch. Purse-friendly. Replica timepieces harbour soy and maple wax infused with pure plant and flower essence. The creamy emollient will endure when applied to the pulse points. 2". Gift boxed.




Now no girl can't live without her brush and mirror. These silver plated vanity brush, comb and mirror, are a classic! You probably own a vintage mirror or brush that have lost their charm, whether be that the silver has peeled off or because of rust. Well, these vanity items are brand new that you will be able to use, without worrying of getting it worn out!

Details: Brush, Comb & Mirror. Our cherished antique set was cast in wax thereby preserving every intricate petal on the plump chrysanthemums and ensuring that such a lovely dresser set could be enjoyed by others. Silverplated brass. Mirror 9 in. Comb 7 in. Brush 8 in.



Enjoy your day!



Chao,



Carmen

She is such a Lady!

Aren't these vintage lamps divine? I found these beauties in Etsy. I know that it will go well in my Paris room. Though my pocket book will be empty after making such a transaction. Anyhow I will just dream about having one of these beautiful lamps. What, can't a girl dream once in a while?





You don't need to overpower your room with flowery fabrics on chairs, curtain or pillows to add that feminine touch into a room. If you ever want to add a feminine look to a room, the best thing to do is to look for curvy shapes. These lamps for instance have that feminine lines. They even look like corsets, so girly I might say!




Now, several years ago do you remember these tiny lamps that have a corset for a shade. They were in style. And I am sure that many of us bought these cute little lamps. And perhaps you might be thinking that these stylish lamps will look perfect in my room. Well, I do appreciate your concern for me. Though as an almost graduated interior decorator, I have one word for you, "Tacky". That's right, according to my decorator's manual such things are unacceptable!


I love sharing my words of wisdom with you. I just want to make sure that you make a good decision when it comes to decorating.


You know that my sister Mily does this for a living. And she does such a good job helping people with their home decor. You can visit her website at: Decor by Mily Gordon.


Chao,


Carmen

A Little Known Dress

One of the positive things of being a petite woman is that a little dress can become a regular size dress for us. I have to admit that when I go shopping I get flustered when I can't find clothes that properly fit me and that look womanly. So whenever I find these cute dresses that are supposed to be mini for a tall woman I jump up in excitement, because I know for sure that it will fit me perfectly!

Here are several little dresses that I found from Modcloth that have that French flare.





This dress features a delicate bow neckline and rich gold and chocolate stripes. Perfect for admiring the French countryside!





This old Hollywood inspired dress has a lovely ruffled collar. It also comes with a matching belt. The pencil cut skirt is a classic touch for any well-rounded wardrobe.





This pink ruffled and pleated dress is great for a romantic date! The sheer, chiffon bodice with swirled, gathered sleeves adds a soft touch. The sleek, black skirt's angles, pleats, and pockets gives it that sophisticated twist.





I love royal blue colors. And this royal blue bib top pencil dress is definitively stylish. The sheer ruffle trim adds that feminine touch.

Aren't these dresses cute?

I absolutely love them!

Vintage Hairstyling Book

I am so excited to see that the new 2nd additon of the Vintage Hairstyling book is out! I have been wanting to learn how to do finger waves for the longest! And if you notice the left top picture on the cover of the book is the finger waves hairstyle. I am totally excited when I get my hands on this book! I am so looking forward in getting a new look for these Summer months. And now that I am in the beauty business, I want to always look stylish. Our hair is an accessory, having a new hairstyle every now in then is like wearing a new outfit.

Here is an introduction of the book:

"There was something very special and beautiful about women in the mid-20th century. The way they dressed was elegant and the way they wore their hair was feminine. Vintage Hairstyling: Retro Styles with Step by Step Techniques is a perfect guide for showing how to create so many of those vintage hairstyles. Lauren Rennells has taken hairstyles from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s and broken them down into simple, easy-to-follow instructions. It uses over 700 brand new photographs and illustrations and detailed directions in a 164-page full-color book."


Here I am wearing my bangs in a half high french twist. The rest of my hair has soft waves, which gave it a romantic look. This is one of my favorites retro look for when I go out at night and for special occasions. A lot of my friends love the look. I love it because it is my own unique look!

I can't wait to learn the finger waves technique! I have always been fascinated with everything Art Deco: The architect, the fashion, arts, furniture, music, and of course the hairstyles.

Stay tuned for some pictures of me with the finger waves hairdo and retro makeup!


I can't wait!


Chao,


Carmen

Retro Telephones

I totally fell for these lovely Retro Telephones when I saw them online! I think any of these beauties will look good in my Paris room. Don't you think? What I like about these replica telephones is that they each are modeled after a telephone from a certain year and location. I just can imagine dialing and being transported to another era. I have always been a huge fan of time traveling. So until scientist can figure out a time traveling device, these telephones will have to do. O well, too bad that I would have to compromise.




The Eiffel Tower Telephone

You’ll want to call Paris the first time you dial! This lovingly reproduced, turn-of-the-century collector’s phone is fully compatible with modern touch-tone dialing. This functional work of art features elaborate die-cast ornamentation, push-button dialing, volume control, and a clear electronic ring.


The Viscount Telephone

Replica from an era when style and function vied for top billing.
Full of the high decorative art and sleek curves of the 1920s, this replica European antique telephone captures the best of both eras-classic European styling and a fully modern touch-tone pad. A quality work of decorative art, the “Viscount” includes volume controls and a distinctive electronic ring all created in faux brass and ebony.


Versailles Telephone

This Versailles Telephone is modeled after the elegant desk phones found at the Royal Palace at Versailles. In a stylish polished brass finish with resin components, this working model captures the best of both eras—the beauty of European design and a fully modern touch-tone dial pad. A functional work of art, it includes redial button, volume control and a pleasant electronic ring.

The Royal Victoria Telephone

Modeled after those popular in Britain in the 1940s, this working telephone captures the best of both eras--classic European styling and a fully modern touch-tone dialing pad. A functional work of art, the “Victoria” includes handset cord, volume controls and a distinctive electronic ring. There’s even a drawer to keep your paper and pencil handy.



True Fact: My favorite movies of all times have been "Back To The Future". That is, all three movies. I can't never get tired of hearing Marty Mc Fly say: " Doc, we better back up. We don't have enough road to get up to 88." And Doc saying: "Roads? Where we're going we don't need roads. "

Such a classic!

Pamper Your lips

Here are several lovely vintage reproduction beauty lip products that I found at Victorian Trading Co. I totally love these organic products, that I had to add it to my wish list! These beauty products come in vintage inspired containers. Aren't they so retrochic? I totally feel pretty already!


Brambleberry Rose Lip Balm

Essences of vanilla, honey and wild berry are infused within shea butter with Vitamin E. The emollient may be applied to pulse points or lips. 0.8 oz. tin.




Cornucupia Lip Satin

Black currant, pomegranate and plum are peppered with mint-spice, citrus and vanilla infused in a sumptuous smile emollient. Antique-inspired tin. 5 oz. Made in Australia.




Organic Lip Balm

"All the Better to Kiss You With..." Chai Mandarin, Lavender Vanilla and Pepperminty....no artificial anything in three varieties of delectable kisses.


Visit Victorian Trading Co. to purchase these and other goodies!

Picture:Wikipedia Commons

All About Aprons

Aren't these aprons cute? There are from Anthropologie and are now in my wish list! I so love these aprons designs for so many reasons. First these aprons are so classy. I believe that no matter what we are doing, even when we are baking a batch of cookies, it is always nice for a girl to look stylish and classy! Also these aprons are full length and they are not like plain Janes, they look like pretty summer dresses. That will mean that your getting an apron and also a dress at the same time. What a great two for one deal! I just love it!

Now the problem will be if I would want to wear one of these aprons while I am cooking. I don't want to ruin my apron with chocolate-flour-egg-mix, that won't look too classy.












Now, I am all inspired to cook today!


True Fact: I only own one vintage apron that I bought from Ebay. It is very girly, perhaps a little young looking. Also my vintage apron is not full length. Many times I have to change my top before having diner. I am very clumsy and my kitchen get's pretty messy when I cook. I just don't why? Sometimes I feel just taking a shower after cooking. T. V cooking shows look so easy. I might have to practice being neat when I cook. Martha do you have any tips for me?