Time Warp Wives ™ - Official Retro Website

TWW MAY LETTER

2015-05-01T21:02:00.000-07:00

Grace Kelly playing deck shuffleboard

Hello my lovely guests! I hope that you're having a nice Spring or Fall depending in what part of this amazing planet you are living in! It is certainly nice to have you over!

When preparing this months letter I thought about how I have never been in a cruise. I don't know what exactly is, but I simply am not interested in being in a ship in the middle of the ocean, in the middle of nowhere. I guess I feel like I'm a fish out of the water! Sorry Gilligan it's not personal!

Whenever I hear my friends and family taking a cruise I'm so excited for them. I love hearing there fun stories and what they did. I'm fascinated by these photos of cruises and their exotic locations. I find the ocean amazing. And when growing up we always went to the beach. But I still can't see myself going on a cruise. I'm just not into it.

However there has been a cruise that have struck my fancy. For years I have been keeping tract of this particular cruise. I have heard and seen how some people just loved the unique experience. Yes, I have talked about this cruise on my TWW LETTER many times.

So I had contemplated that maybe my hubby and I could perhaps give this cruise a try, if not this year well perhaps next year. The cruise is schedule to set sail this year on November 1-6, 2015. That's about 7 months from now.

The cruise ship is The Disney Magic and it's destination is to the Grand Cayman and Castaway Cay. Oh, yes how nice. An Island, drinking Pina Coladas. And it's all booked! What? Yes, you heard the cruise is all sold out!!! But we are only 7 months away and it's already filled? Yeap, you heard right the cruise already set sail. And if you are really that desperate in trying to get in you can join the waiting list. Ha you mean the looser list!

If you want to become a looser and join the TCM Classic Cruise ship be my guest. Next time I will make sure to book in as soon as I see the poster on their website. Sorry, sprinkles are for winners!

Latest in Twitter: If you read my recent tweet you most likely heard that I didn't get my classic Mailyn Bag. I was so bummed out about it. The Mailyn Bag It's now in backorder! Here we go again! Another waiting list!

I think that the reason why this Avon's Signature bag is so popular is because it looks like a Louis Vuitton. I also heard that it also looks like a Michael Kors bag. I could see a resemblance from both bags. I wish I could afford a Louis Vuitton! Anyhow I have to wait several more weeks before I could replace my old vintage bag. ( My daily vintage bag has obvious wear and tear. So while I was looking for a new bag to replace it I had to bring out my little black suede purse, which my wallet and phone can barely fit in). In the meanwhile I did receive my awesome black and white print scarf! I tell you that this scarf is absolutely luxurious! Go Avon!

Well, that's all folks!

Please if you sneeze just make sure to cover your mouth! Other than that please enjoy your stay. Thanks.

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW APRIL LETTER

2015-04-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

Good day sunshine! I hope that all of you are having a lovely Springy day!

Perhaps where you are there is a chill in the air. Don't fret! Beach days are soon to come! So are you ready to take the plunge? My, it's been so long since I have been to the beach! I think that last time that hubby and I been to the beach was when we went to the lovely Saint Petersburg, Florida. And that was 3 years ago!

As kids my siblings and I were always at the beach. And when we were not at the beach we were at the pool. I sure remember after spending a whole day at the beach how the skin of our backs and arms would peel off. How fun it was peeling off the skin! (Not recommended!)

Nowadays I rarely get tanned. Now that I'm older I'm more conscious of how much sun I get. I do however after finding out that I was Vitamin D deficient I get at least 15 minutes of direct sunlight a day and at night after diner I take my Vitamin D supplement. Besides helping out with energy, Vitamin D is crucial to preventing cancer and tumors from forming.

The beaches will definitely be crowded like always with Spring breakers! I rather wait until the crowd is gone to enjoy a quiet swim on the water. This month my wonderful husband and I will be celebrating our 16 years anniversary! We are spending a whole day at the river. Totally looking forward to our special day!

No matter if you are the swimmer or the sun bather it is always important to look fashionable. For all of your beach, pool, lakes or river needs check out our checklist!

Time Warp Wives Beach Checklist

*Swimwear: If you are into the Victorian swimsuits you can find some modest swimwear at the Ladies Emporium and the Premier Clothing store. And for the 40's, 50's, or flower power gals Unique Vintage is the place to go. Right now at Esty at the TammysFindings there is a black vintage Flapper swimwear along with a pair of bathing shoes.

* Parasols and Umbrellas: Victorian Trading carry a few lovely ones ( I own the grey lace one). The Ladies Emporium also have several unique umbrellas with fringes and even ones with feathers.

* Hats and Headbands: Love the sun hats from Unique Vintage. And Forever 21 has some pretty headwraps ones as well. These headbands wraps are adorable. Can't forget to take your swim cap.

* Tote Bags: Found these cute Coca Cola bags at Amazon. While at Amazon I also saw these stripes bags and more stripes bags here, which are so retro stylish.

* Towels: These Amazon's Coca Cola beach towels are so fantastic. Found these awesome stripe towels from Target also have that vintage flair. Bubble gum anyone?

* Suncreen Lotions: Natural & Organic Sunscreens by Badger has great reviews. Baby Bee Sunscreen Stick is also great for your little ones.

* Sunglasses: Also from Unique Vintage are these stylish sunglasses.

* Footware: These Jelly Sandals from Unique Vintage sure bring back memories. These funky gladiators sandals from GoJane though not exactly like the picture above still has that old fashion flair.

Well my lovely guests I hope that you all enjoy this Spring!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW MARCH LETTER

2015-03-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

Picture from the 1928 film Steamboat Bill Jr.
Source:TCM

Hello to all of my beautiful guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

It's that time already for TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL! The theme for this year's 2015 festival will be about History According to Hollywood. Now many of you like myself who love history we sometimes get a little annoyed or upset when some Hollywood movies that are based on history are not always accurate. That's why it's important to learn history facts from a reliable source, than to based it on what Hollywood says. Hence this year's film festival theme is History according to Hollywood.

So with that said and done we can't deny that some of Hollywood's historical movies have moved us. Some of these films has helped us see a glimpse of what life might have been years ago. One recent film that I absolutely enjoyed from Daniel Day -Lewis was Lincoln. After I finished watching the film I felt that I truly met this former U.S. President in person, and that I got to know him better.

And talking about Lincoln they will be showing at this year's festival the 1939 Young Mr. Lincoln film starring Henry Fonda who played young Lincoln as an established lawyer. Peter Fonda, son of Henry Fonda will among the attendees.

This year's Sound of Music film is celebrating it's 50 years anniversary. And among the attendees will be non other than the very talented Julie Andrews and the always dashing Christopher Plummer!

And as an additional special treat for those who attend this year's festival will get to experience the hand-cranked projection of 35mm film print. Films that are included are A Trip To The Moon (1902), The Great Train Robbery (1903), and the film Suspense (1913).

Wow how exciting this year's film festival will be! So mark your calendar for this years film festival:

Thursday March 26, 2015 to Sunday March 29, 2015.

For more information and where to buy tickets please visit: http://filmfestival.tcm.com/.

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW FEBRUARY LETTER

2015-02-01T10:23:00.000-08:00

Natalie Woods having a good time with this handsome stud!

Hello to all of my beautiful guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

One of my favorites treats that I enjoy watching every year is the Westminster Annual Dog Show! As you know I am a proud owner of a Jack Russell and Australian Shepard mix. Chewie my dog is a high level intelligent dog. He and I have a special bond. So many times without saying a word he knows when I am getting ready to take him for his walk, a car ride, or even to the vet. But the problem is that if my husband or I even mentioned or even spell the C-A-R word, oh boy Chewie jumps up down thinking that he is going to go for a car ride. What a smart kid! That is something that I didn't know about this mix breed, they are very intelligent!

Most dogs were bred to work. I wasn't aware that my dog was a hunter until he would go after other small animals. But you see we don't live in the country were there are cattle and horses and rabbits so that he could hunt. We live in a city. So if you do decide to adopt a Jack Russell Terrier or an Australian Shepard be prepared to have a schedule were your dog will have plenty of exercise and fun activities. Something that I have to still try doing more regularly. If you don't take care of your dog basic needs like Caesar Millan would say, "Exercise, Discipline, and Love he could end up a very unhappy dog.

Throughout the years I have found that having a dog around has brought me so much happiness and joy. Especially at times when I was sick and had to stay at home. How wonderful is to have a four legged friend that keep you company and show that unconditional love to you!

I saw some cute retro stuff online for your canine friend that I am sure your going to love. Do you have an old suitcase laying around? Well isn't this Old Suitcase Dog Bed from Victorian Trading totally cool! And from Plasticland there is the cutest metal Dog Biscuits box. I also found a stylish retro place mat. And I was thinking about getting new food bowls for Chewie. I had to add this cute Dog and Gramophone Salt and Pepper. At Active Dog Toys they have great activities toys that will keep your dog both physically and mentally sharp.

So on February 17, 2015 I will be relaxing and enjoying the 139th Westminster Dog Show along with my four legged friend! Afterwards we will be trying some new tricks! For ideas I like the Dog Time website. And for more information on their other upcoming shows visit the website: http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/

See ya later toots,

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW JANUARY LETTER

2015-01-01T19:31:00.000-08:00

Disneyland Circa 1960' / Source Retronaut

Hello to all of my beautiful guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

The future is certainly here! Well, it may not be quite the way that Walt Disney had visioned it, space suits and all. For instance though did you know that he had a master plan for Epcot Center? Yes, boys and girls the theme park that we know today was not originally intended to be a vacation spot. But actually a futuristic community where people were going to live in. Hence the name Epcot: Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow.

Interesting eh!

Don't you just love the photo above! This 1960's photo was taken at Disneyland Tomorrow Land. The outfits are cute and interesting. Hum, silvery boots. Personally I'll stick with cotton. Thanks!

The Back To The Future movie (my favorite movie of all times!) also depicted some rather interesting futurist outfits and also gadgets as well. When Marty traveled to the future of October 2015 he was introduced to the Hoverboard. Well, I was hoping that by this time the Hoverboard and flying cars would be around.

Wait a minute, wait a minute I take that back! The Hoverboard is here and just on time for October 2015! Yes, the name is the Hendo Hoverboard! Greg Henderson the founder of Hendo envisioned a way to employ an unexploited technology in ways others had not. He labelled this epiphany: Magnetic Field Architecture™ (MFA).

Recently the Hendo Hoverboard unveiled at Kickstarter and you know what they doubled their funding goal! For the moment the Hendo Hoverboard are only able to ride on a specific surface. And because is a recent invention it is a bit expensive. But sometime in the near future we will see many Marty's riding on their own hoverboards!

The future is indeed here!

Where we going we don't need roads!

Your Retro Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW DECEMBER LETTER

2014-12-01T15:57:00.000-08:00

Source

Hello to all of my beautiful guests. It is certainly great to be back! Thanks so much for your lovely emails while we were away. We appreciate your thoughts and concerns!

Although life at the moment is not quite where it supposed to be. And to quote the famous saying "The Only Constant Thing in Life is Change." Aren't we grateful to have family and friends who helps us through those bumps on the toad, I meant road (toad was a typo, but I decided to leave it there, because I found it very funny). Understand it's been a while since I have done any writing.

Just the other day I told my sister that I was going to resume my writing again, but that I felt that I had lost the rhythm of things. Not only that I am having brain fog issues lately, but my thoughts are not flowing that smoothly like they used to. It's like my brain has become a couch potato. Good thing I'm not a surgeon. Could you imagine the scenario? "Nurse, would please pass the, the... what's the name of the thing that is sharp...you know the thing that is good for cutting... You know the paper and rock game? -Yes. What's the name of third item? -Oh you mean scissors?" Anyhow good thing I'm a blogger with brain fog than a doctor that forgets the name of his operating tools!

Well let's see what I have been up to lately besides being a couch potato. I had started knitting. Which by the way is very fun and relaxing. I haven't knitted anything in particular. Just the fact that I am knitting a straight line is so much fun! One of these days I may come up with something like this. No wonder our grandmothers enjoyed this pass time. Have you ever known a crazy and violent person that knits? No, not really. This kind of craft belongs to people that either enjoy a quite relaxing time, or if you happen to be a sleuth about to solve a mystery.

All of this talk about short term memory problems and knitting reminds me of getting older. Many cultures respect and appreciate their elders. One such blogger have shown that elders can still be stylish and elegant at any age. Ari Seth Cohen is the author and photographer of Advanced Style. Ari had always appreciated the wisdom of his elders. When interviewed by Npr he said that, "the most influential people in his life were his grandmothers. He loved watching old movies with them and looking through their scrapbooks. And as a little kid, he became fascinated with the way women dressed in the 1930s, '40s and '50s. "

Ari's blog is about honoring and remembering such ones. Now these ladies on his blog are not sitting down knitting. Mind you they are not your typical grandmothers. Most of these women are active and contribute greatly to the community!

One of my favorite lady that I love is Joyce. I find that Joyce is the epitome of elegance and decorum. It is such a pleasure to listen to her! Oh by the way you can purchase the Advanced Style book in Amazon. Recently some of the ladies of the book are shown in a new documentary. Joyce was also in the film. A couple of weeks ago I was so excited when I saw that Netflix had added the Advanced Style documentary in their latest releases! After watching the film I was so inspired. My thoughts about the Advanced Style is that age is just only a number.

For more information you can listen to Ari's Seth Cohen interview in NPR.

It was certainly nice to see you again!

See you later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW APRIL LETTER

2014-04-01T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of my lovely guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

Believe it or not Spring is here! Of course for many of you it seems like Winter will never be over. But then when you least expected it you will hear the chirping of the little birds near your window. The sun as bright as ever!Then you you go out to your car and it's not silver anymore, because it's all cover up with yellow pollen. Then you smile because you know that Spring is finally here!

It's that time again for the much anticipated TCM Classic Film Festival 2014! I heard that there are a lot of goodies en stored for those who will attend this event.

Recognize the actress on the photo above? This is the non other than the lovely Shirley Jones in the 1955 fully restored film Oklahoma. For those who grew up in the seventies we used to watch her as the talented mom from the T.V. show the Partridge Family. Shirley will be one the many special guests attending this years festival. For more information of this event please visit: http://filmfestival.tcm.com/.

I love to wear cute fun dresses for the Spring. Unfortunately I can't fit into most of my dresses anymore! Since last year I have been gaining weight because of my thyroid ( the reason why I had to take a break from blogging).

I don't have a lot of clothes to start with. And that was the way I wanted it to be. You see years ago I built up my classic wardrobe, from dresses, to pants, to hats, to shoes. I kept my closet to a minimal of only clothes that I love and would wear all the time. In addition to that I learn to be happy with a few items. It took determination and a lot of self-control not to buy everything I saw at the store. As a matter of fact many times I would come back home with absolutely nothing. Once in a while of course I would splurge on a new red lipstick. I was happy with that!

Going back to my weight gain. My body has changed. Not only am I turning 43 years old this year and facing this ugly thyroid syndrome. The perimenopause started to show it's ugly face as well. Yes, my dear readers I am having to deal now with night sweats! I'm more moodier, more anxious, and currently I'm feeling the blues. Ugh!!! I'm a hot mess!

I have to accept and face the fact that for now I am getting old. Don't love it. But I rather be known as a fun old lady than a negative grumpy one. I have to embrace the reality and try to see some of the positive things of getting old. Let's see:

* More Confident
* Hopefully more Mature
* More Wiser. I love that!
* More Content
* Don't care much of what people say
* Happy with the little things in life
* Don't take myself too serious

Anyhow where was I? Oh yes, I love to wear cute fun dresses for the Spring. But because of my weight I hardly have anything from my closet to wear. I admit that I have been a little depressed about that. But Marilyn Monroe wasn't always fit you know. For instance when she filmed the movie Some Like It Hot, she had more curves than her other previous movies. And you know what she looked great! So at this phase I am the more curvier version of myself! So from now on you can call me Sugar!

With that said and done. Time to go shopping again!

It was certainly nice to see you again!

See you later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW FEBRUARY LETTER

2014-02-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

Shirley Temple 1928 – 2014

We are saddened today for the lost of one of the most talented child star ever, Shirley Temple. Shirley thanks for always bringing to us laughter and joy. Although you are gone for a little while your beautiful smile will still be as bright as ever! How great to know that one day death will be no more! What a wonderful time that will be, life without end at last! ~ Revelations 21: 3, 4

Shirley Temple in Curly Top

TWW JANUARY LETTER

2014-01-01T14:07:00.000-08:00

Hello to all of my lovely guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

January winter air is everywhere! Are you bundling up my friends because it's cold out there! There are freezing temperatures all over the U.S. And believe it or not here in sunny Florida we are getting a big chill! Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!

With a new year many of you are thinking about goals that you want to reach. I for one want to work everyday on 5 simple things:

I am so ready to have a fresh start this year! And to enjoy the little things that truly makes life worth living!

And talking about enjoying things. We all enjoy a great movie. I am sure that you have your all time favorites. I was thrilled when I had heard that Turner Classic Movies and On Location Tours announced their new TCM Classic Film Tour!

Start spreading the news. I am leaving today. I want to be a part of it New York, New York!

How awesome is that! This is your chance to visit some movie sites from your favorite movies!

In other news. As of lately I have been working on my new and improved Victoria Lee Jones Café Society website (formerly known as Victoria Lee Jones Le Paris Café Club). Also in addition to that I have decided to eliminate my RetroChic Corner personal blog and merge it with my new website. That way I don't have to juggle multiple sites at a time.

Victoria Lee Jones Café Society is modeled by my love of old Paris and the 19th century Victorian and Edwardian eras. My website is part vintage shop and a café shop. You will find a variety of vintage items and products from different eras that I am sure you will love! And like any other café place we will chat about history, vintage, arts, music, food, fashion, architecture, culture, while of course enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee accompanied by a croissant and pleasant company, you!

So come visit me at my Victoria Lee Jones Café Society while we chat over coffee!

Have a great month! Keep warm!

It was certainly nice to see you again!

See you later toots!

Avoir!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW NOVEMBER LETTER

2013-11-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

An old model of PCC streetcar on Queen Street East Toronto, Canada (1954)

Hello to all of my lovely guests. It is certainly nice having you over!

I am happy to be back into the swing of things and to share with you what I have been up to. On my June letter I mentioned how sad I was that I haven't been able to travel to Canada to see my brother whom I haven't seen for 12 years. After praying to God for his guidance and direction in how to address my health issues I was able to finally get the needed treatment that I needed.

I am excited to inform you that after a month of starting my new treatment and seeing my health slowly improving I was able to pack my suitcase and head toward Toronto to see my brother! How emotional and excited it was to finally see him again after all of these years! And what made this trip even more special was that all of my three siblings were also able to travel. We have not had a chance to meet all of us together in 16 years! What a joyful occasion that was!

It is so nice to be able to enjoy time together with love ones. The coming weeks many of you will have a chance to visit family and friends. Many of you may haven't seen your loved ones in years. Cherish those special moments. Tell your loved ones how much you love them. These are occasions that may not be repeated in a long time. Make those moments count!

The first impression that I got from Toronto was that everywhere you looked there were people from all over the world! My brother introduced to us all of the different little towns with their own international flare. The food was phenomenal! The people were so welcoming and friendly. The energy of the city reminded me of New York. Though much smaller and cleaner, kind of like Boston. Kudos for Toronto! It's no wonder that my brother and his wife love it in Toronto!

In the area of Downtown where my brother and his lovely wife lives they need no car to get around. We got to ride the subway, the trolley, and we did a lot of walking as well. It's no wonder both my brother and his wife are slim and fit. Thank goodness I got the energy to do all of that!

By the end of the night and by the end of our trip we were all tired, aching, toes blistery. As we looked back it was worth every bit of it! We laughed, we cried, we shared, we enjoyed family time and we made new lasting memories that will last for a life time, which is priceless! That is what family reunions are all about!

Here is a family portrait of my siblings and I in one of the most beautiful places on earth Niagara Falls! From left to right is Milly, me, Orlando, and Joshua, my brother that I got to see again. I love you guys!

The Alvarez Clan in Niagara Falls, Canada (2013)

And as I said in my June letter, things at times may look difficult to resolve. But for God nothing is impossible! I thank him everyday for that!

Have a great month! See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW AUGUST LETTER

2013-08-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hello there to all of our retro friends! We hope that you are having a splendid day. We are delighted to have you over.

The Summer heat, humidity and afternoon storms are in full swing here in Florida. One minute is as hot as a oven, and the other minute is like the floodgates of the heavens are completely opened. The water has been covering our front lawn to the point that its' nearly impossible to walk through. Having a small boat with a couple of paddles around would not be a bad idea. In this crazy day and age the weather is more unpredictable than ever.

Now that we cover our weather forecast for the day. It's August and that means that a fun lawn party is on it's way! Nope trust me it's not going to be in my front yard, but it would be somewhere even better. Drum roll please:

Michael Aranella & His Dreamland Orchestra Presents The Eight Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party at the Governors Island in New York! Yes ladies and gents of the 1920's generation it's time to get your flapper outfits and dancing shoe out and enjoy a swell sweet time at the Jazz Age Lawn Party! The dates are August 17 & 18, 2013. For more information and where to purchase tickets please visit: Jazz Age Lawn Party.

For many that are going to attend this party for the first time may wonder what to wear on such occasion. Don't worry they are plenty of photos available of past Lawn Party events. In addition if you have not yet purchase your attire there are many shops online that carry flapper style clothing. You might find the following links helpful:

* Jazz Age Lawn Party Gallery
* Yahoo Images
* Unique Vintage
* Etsy Flapper Dresses, Flapper Hairpiece, Flapper Shoes
* Village Hat Shop: Panama Hats, Cloche Hats

Here is a glimpse of June's Lawn Party:

How fun was that!

If you would like to learn some dance moves from this era Roddy Caravella also known as Charleston Charlie is the dance teacher for you. Mr. Caravella specializes in authentic jazz dances of the 1920's. He has been teaching and performing social jazz dances for the past 20 years. To learn more why not swing by and visit his website: http://charlestoncharlie.com/.

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you! Have a great month!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW JUNE LETTER

2013-06-01T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hello there to all of our retro friends! We hope that you are having a great month of June. We are delighted to have you over.

It's great to enter a new month rejuvenated and joyful! Like the sun coming out from a dark cloud on a raining day you appreciate more and more that every cloud has a silver lining. Last month for instance I had to take several weeks off from my writing so that I could concentrate in personal and family responsibilities. Although things are not quite where they should be (and may not be for a great while), I am just taking life in stride.

I always wondered what it really means to take life in stride. So I looked up some definitions and there was one definition that I liked the best: "to calmly and easily deal with something unpleasant or difficult and not let it affect what you are doing or not let it have a bad effect on you."

Truthfully though, "that is easier said than done," especially when the going gets tough, the tough gets going.

For years my lovely husband would say: "Do not think on what you can't do, think on what you can do." That is why I love my man!

I than thought to myself "I am going to do just that. I am going to learn to live with my current circumstances and not allow it to affect me negatively." I am generally a happy and bubbly person. I enjoy life and the many beautiful things that life has to offer.

I admit though that there are many times I do get depressed, especially when I am unable to do things that I once enjoyed. Take traveling for instance. I love to travel. I especially miss hopping on a plane and visiting friends and family.

This year seem like my health was improving. I got so excited that I had made plans to visit my brother who lives in Canada whom by the way I haven't seen in 12 years! Whenever I think of him I get teary. I miss him terribly! I even got my new passport. But then I got a setback. You can't imagine how sad I have been about this. My brother at the moment can't travel to the States to visit me and I feel so sick to travel and see him.

I love a quote that Allen Saunders said once “Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.”

Boy isn't that true!

Would a little setback discourage me from enjoying life? No! I won't encourage it. I won't allow it. I won't let it take the upper hand and bring me down.

"It's not the problems we face that define us, it's how we choose to handle them."

There are still six more months to this year. And my goal is and will still be to see my brother. I don't know when or how I will be able to see him. I do know one thing for sure that with God nothing is impossible!

I will keep you all posted with the latest of my traveling plans.

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you! Have a great month!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

P.S. While my husband was away visiting his mom I took the liberty to redecorate his office and other areas of our home. My Paris room had had a little face lift as well. It seems like my interior decorating course is finally paying off. I will be posting some of the photos with you soon. Au revoir!

TWW APRIL LETTER

2013-04-08T17:19:00.003-07:00

Remembering Annette Funicello

Annette Funicello, one of the best-known members of the original 1950s "Mickey Mouse Club" and a star of numerous 1960s "beach party" films, died Monday April 8, 2013 at a California hospital. A Disney statement said that she "died peacefully from complications due to multiple sclerosis, a disease she battled for over 25 years."

Commenting on her passing Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said, "Annette was well-known for being as beautiful inside as she was on the outside, and she faced her physical challenges with dignity, bravery and grace. All of us at Disney join with family, friends, and fans around the world in celebrating her extraordinary life."

Annette will truly be missed.

TWW MARCH LETTER

2013-03-01T12:18:00.000-08:00

Welcome our friends to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

We hope that you all are doing splendid and enjoying with your girlfriends time out from the cares of the home. And if you haven't why not call them today and go out for a much deserved down time.

March is here and ever since the beginning of the year we have been busy like little bees. Here at our Time Warp Wives headquarters we have been busy launching several new projects for the past several months that we have hardly anytime to even set our hair. Seriously, we have to go back to our hair tutorials so that we can refresh our memories. To remedy our unkempt locks we just had to rely on a good winter hat and a pair of dark shades just in case somebody happens to recognize us:

-Aren't you that lady that always looks well groomed and polished? Oh my how come you look...Your hair looks...Your nails look...and you are wearing jeans!

Yes, we all have our good hair days and bad hair days. And for some crazy reason lately I have been having more bad hair days than good hair days. If you have been following me at Twitter I had to finally join the gym. Taking the dog for a leisurely walk was't helping my bad back. Actually on the contrary it was making my back hurt even worst. My dog pulls sometimes which hasn't been good for me. So joining the gym has been great for two reason. One my back is feeling better. And two I get to spend time with my hubby, now called my exercise buddy.

Another reason why I started to exercise is that I have gained several pounds this past year. And for a petite person like myself I started noticing my clothes getting tighter and in addition I started feeling extremely tired and sluggish. Anyhow I am happy to say that besides my new exercise regimen and some homeopathic adrenal support medicine I now have more stamina and feeling better!

And talking about clothing. Did you know that this month

Macy's Is Debuting The Marilyn Monroe Collection!

I know I am totally excited about Macy's new collection! I keep going to their website to see if they have launched the collection yet. My pocket book is ready! And now that I gained several pounds what a good excuse to go shopping! Oh I can't wait. I already have a few items that I totally love! You can see part of the collection at our Retro Fashion Week website.

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW FEBRUARY LETTER

2013-02-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

"I am not a girl any more. I am a woman that has curves and that deserves respect and acknowledgement!"

Ladies are you tired of the heavy demands of being a size zero? Do you feel that fashion magazine only favors the super skinny girls for their covers? Do you wish that the fashion industry could be a little bit kinder to you and to all of your friend models and hire you for their cat walks? After all you are not a girl any more, but you are a woman that has curves and that deserves respect and acknowledgement.

Don't look further, Retro Fashion Week 2013 is here!

And our motto is:

Unlike other fashion shows, Retro Fashion Week is all for beautiful curves, hourglass shape, and delineated feminine lines. We all know that real women comes in all shapes and sizes. And why shouldn't fashion events? It just makes complete sense. And that is what Retro Fashion Week is all about, real fashion for real women!

Retro Fashion Week welcomes all retro models and fashionistas to come and join us today at: Retro Fashion Week 2013!

See you there!

TWW JANUARY LETTER

2013-01-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Welcome our friends to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

I know I can't believe that we are in January 2013 already! How exciting when a fresh year starts. We have a whole year ahead of us with dreams and goals that we want to fulfill and if you are like me I can't wait to share these dreams with everyone, including you!

If you haven't already noticed on January 1st I opened a brand new shop called Victoria Lee Jones Le Paris Café Club. This new project is inspired by my novel Victoria Lee Jones and The Valedictorian Secret Society.

Victoria Lee Jones Le Paris Café Shop is part vintage store and a café shop. Our vintage store is an exclusive antique, vintage and fashion designer shop. Our store will feature items from the 19th century to the late 80's. We will be carrying mostly women's and men's clothing, shoes, bags, hats and accessories. And occasionally we will carry items for children and for the home.

Our café section is where we could chat about history, arts, food, fashion, architecture, culture, while of course enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee accompanied by a croissant and background entertainment.

Now talking about entertainment the 36th Art Deco Festival 2013 is coming soon! The festival will be located in Ocean Drive Miami Beach, Florida. The dates are January 18-20, 2013. The theme for this coming year is: CELEBRATING THE ART DECO ERA IN FLORIDA'S QUINCENTENNIAL.

Some of things that will be featured in the Art Deco Weekend are Classic Car Show, Antique Show, Fashion Show by Bettie Page Clothing. There is going to be an outdoor Film Festival where there will be showing several classic films. You will also be able to enjoy international food, music, dance, and much more!

For more information on the event please visit: Art Deco Weekend.

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you! Have a great month! See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

Meet The Shopkeeper

Bonjour, my friends! Come visit my new shop Victoria Lee Jones Le Paris Café Club! It would be a pleasure to have you over!

TWW DECEMBER LETTER

2012-12-01T13:25:00.000-08:00

Big News Announcement!

Retrotimes Productions company is thrilled to announce that we are bringing back Retro Fashion Week!

In 2010 when we first launched Retro Fashion Week it received great response from all over the world! And because of that we decided to bring Retro Fashion Week back again!

Retro Fashion Week is an international online event that features the latest in Retro fashion, beauty, & designs.

Unlike other fashion shows, we are all for beautiful curves, hourglass shape, and delineated feminine lines. We all know that real women comes in all shapes and sizes. And that is what Retro Fashion Week is all about, real fashion for real women!

This time around Retro Fashion Week will host an event for every season. That will mean that we will host four major events throughout the year.

Retro Fashion Week will also have a special guest host for every event. Our guest host will have the opportunity to share with us what they most like of that particular season in Retro Fashion Week. He or she will get to talk about their favorites fashion & beauty finds.

To participate and become a member for our Retro Fashion Week event you have to meet with one of the following requirements:

1- Retro Fashion Designer
2- Retro Beauty & Makeup Company
3- Vintage & Retro Shop Owner
4- Retro Star Artist
5- Retro Model
6- Photographer
7- Fashion & Beauty Consultant
8- Beauty Salon Owner
9- Hair Stylist
10-Makeup Artist

If you would like to become a Retro Fashion Week member, a guest host, a sponsor, advertise with us, or if you have any questions please email us at: timewarpwives@yahoo.com.

We are looking forward to seeing you next year at Retro Fashion Week 2013!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW NOVEMBER LETTER

2012-11-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Guests,

We take this opportunity to express how saddened we are for all those in the east coast of United States who are suffering because of Hurricane Sandy. Our hearts go out to all of you and to your love ones. May you find comfort, joy, and peace for the days to come.

We would like to dedicate a poem to you by Anna Hempstead Branch which was written around 1900.

New York at Sunrise

When with her clouds the early dawn illumes
Our doubtful streets, wistful they grow and mild
As if a sleeping soul grew happy and smiled,
The whole dark city radiantly blooms.
Pale spires lift their hands above the glooms
Like a resurrection, delicately wild,
And flushed with slumber like a little child,
Under a mist, shines forth the innocent Tombs.
Thus have I seen it from a casement high.
As unsubstantial as a dream it grows.
Is this Manhattan , virginal and shy,
That in a cloud so rapturously glows?
Ethereal, frail, and like an opening rose,
I see my city with an enlightened eye.

Warm Wishes,

Carmen Johnson

Photo via Museum City of New York.

TWW OCTOBER LETTER

2012-10-01T09:18:00.000-07:00

Lola Lamour

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

How happy that Fall is finally here! This past Summer was especially grueling here at our Time Warp Wives headquarters when our air-conditioner decided to break down on us. — of course it had to happen during the hottest month of the year. We almost had to call the fire department when we saw the unit spitting out fire and smoke. Yikes! Good thing that it didn't burn down the house!

Now we have a refurbished unit that works like a charm. I can now cook hubby's dinner without breaking a sweat. I am again a happy housewife!

Our person of the month is non other than the lovely Joanne Massey from the Tme Warp Wives documentary. Joanne Massey is better known as the talented singer Lola Lamour. And lately this beautiful artist has been featured in several videos and shows along with her new band The Lamours.

Lola has also done some modeling job lately. On our feature photo Lola is wearing the 1940's Mary Dress, which is one of Heyday Vintage Style dress. This vintage style Fall dress recreates the late 30s to early 1940s with its gathered shoulders, puff sleeves and fitted waist. It has a great bust enhancing look, while not displaying any cleavage at all! Just perfect!

Oh, goody now that Fall is here it is time to go shopping! And what other than Heyday Vintage Style to find that pretty dress for that special occasion!

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you! Have a great October month!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW SEPTEMBER LETTER

2012-09-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

September is in full swing! Kids are back to school. Moms are back to their regular routine. Dad's are out there trying to make a living. Wait! Do I sense a sad story here? Because everyone is busy doesn't mean that life has to be boring, right?

That's right folks buy your tickets right here. And get ready for some September well-deserved fun!

The Art Deco Society of California Presents: The Gatsby Summer Afternoon! The event will be held on Sunday, September 9, 2012 from 1-6PM. Come to the Dunsmuir Helman Historic Estate, which is located on 2960 Peralta Oaks Court, Oakland, CA. For more information you may visit: Art Deco Society.

And for those of you that live or will be traveling to Britain The Goodwood Revival is a unique chance to step back in time while enjoying the world’s most popular historic and glamours motor race.

The dates for the event are: September 14-16, 2012. For more information please visit: Goodwood Revival.

We always appreciate having you as our guests. We also thank you for visiting us while we were going through some minor home renovations. We still have some issues with our website to contend with, but we will make due. You know why? Because we are tough as a Brillo pad!

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear from you!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW AUGUST LETTER

2012-08-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Marilyn Monroe, 24, in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, 1950.

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

We hope that this crazy Summer hasn't made you mad —husband brought the boys to play cards and completely forgot about that the both of you were going to go to the country club to play some tennis? I am sorry to hear that.

Don't be upset with you husband though. After all you know how he is so darn forgetful. And how he ignores you sometimes. And perhaps he is a little irresponsible. So why did you marry him in the first place? Oh because you love him. Oh, I see.

If you feel that you are about to loose it. Just take a deep breath. Count to ten very slowly. Go to the freezer look for your favorite ice cream. Oh, yes there it is, Ben & Jerry's Everything But The... Excuse yourself to the living room. Turn on the T.V. to TCM. Watch a whole day's worth of Marilyn Monroe movies. Eat all of that chocolaty ice cream to your hearts content (no sharing is allowed, unless of course you made up with your husband). Grow some curves and just be happy!

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear where are you planning to go this Summer.

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW JULY LETTER

2012-07-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

It's been hot and storming here in sunny Florida. We haven't been able to do much of outdoor activities. And we are starting to feel landlocked in our own home. That won't stop us! No siree! We are getting out this monkey smelly place and beat this heat!

So while we are all coop up inside with the air-conditioner blasting and giving away money to the electric company ( at least we saved money during the unusual warm winter), we can think of some things that we can do indoors.

Let's go to the movies! Let's go see the stars! ( I was about 10 years old when I saw Annie). Who doesn't love a movie? Everyone loves a good movie. Watching a good movie is a great way to forget about the worries of the day. Hmm the smell of popcorn, comfortable seats, and air-conditioning makes it for a fun and enjoyable time. So let's see what we can find that could be worth seeing.

The 17th Annual San Francisco Silent Film Festival is coming on July 12- July15, 2012.! With the big success of the movie “The Artist” that went on to win five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor. Silent movies are making a comeback. Swell!

The last time a silent movie was awarded for an Oscar for Best Picture was 83 years ago. That film was the World War I saga “Wings”. This film along with others great classics will be featured and presented with live musical accompaniment, just the way is was done in the past.

For more information on this fantastic festival and to purchase your tickets please visit: Silentfilm. Org.

Have you heard about the New Recessionaries? No silly, it's not about the economy. The New Recessionaries are a new band featuring great dance music of the 20's through 50's. And they are debuting at the Cicada Club for a one night only event! They are schedule to perform this coming Sunday July 8, 2012.

You see you don't have to be bored this Summer. And if you are why there are ton of board games that are collecting dust in the attic. Just bring a fan up there because you sure will burn up!

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear what your plans are for the coming Summer months.

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW JUNE LETTER

2012-06-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

Summer is almost here and that means that vintage Summer events are about to start! Yay! So are you ready to have some fun? Here we go!

Frock Me Vintage Fashion in Chelsea, London will be coming on June 10, 2012! This vintage clothing fair is the place to find that one of a kind vintage gem. No wonder this event attracts fashionistas, stylists, models, fashion students, collectors and costume designers. So get your pocket book and walking shoes ready for a great shopping experience.

Michael Arenella and His Dreamland Orchestra invites you to The 7th Annual Jazz Age Lawn Party on Saturday and Sunday June 16TH & 17TH, 2012 Join them inThe Governors Island just off the southeastern tip of Manhattan, New York Harbor. For more information please visit: Dreamland Orchestra.

The London Vintage Fashion Fair at Hammersmith Town Hall is coming on Sunday June 17, 2012! This event has a broad selection of vintage fashion clothing dealers from all over the UK and abroad. Gathered under one roof to share their prized stash of highly sought-after wares spanning from 1800 to 1980 at competitive price. Now that is my cup of tea.

The Vintage Festival is coming next month July 13-15, 2012! The venue for this event will be on the beautiful grounds of the Boughton House in Northamptonshire UK, which will provide a spectacular backdrop to celebrate the best of British music, fashion, film, art, design & food from the 1920's to the 1980's. For more information or to purchase your tickets please visit: Vintage Festival.

We hope that you all have a great time in this month of June!

Don't forget to drop us a letter when you can. We would love to hear what your plans are for the coming Summer months.

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW MAY LETTER

2012-05-02T13:20:00.001-07:00

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

We hope that you all are having a wonderful Spring time while attending to your vegetable garden and watching the blue birds flying by.

The other day my hubby and I celebrated our 13th year Wedding Anniversary! That day we went to Epcot and enjoyed their yearly International Flowers and Garden Festival.

I was so taken back by the gorgeous topiary plants and flowers arrangements that it brought tears to my eyes of how beautiful this earth could be if all took time to take care of it.

And talking about water wouldn't it be wonderful if we can all go to a beautiful beach in the Carribean and enjoy some great weather. Well that could be possible, because Turner Classic Movies is having again for the second time their TCM Classic Cruise getaway ! Now how exciting is that!

Yes, folks on January 21 - 26, 2013, TCM will sail from Miami to Grand Cayman and Cozumel on the Celebrity Constellation. For five days and nights while on board on this luxurious ship you will enjoy the classic movie adventure of a lifetime! Among the great highlights of this travel experience will be numerous opportunities to see your favorite TCM hosts and classic film stars in a new light! You will have a chance to watch some of your old favorite films on the big screen and also you will get to enjoy fun daily TCM-Theme events and activities for the whole family.

I have nothing to wear for the trip? Don't worry Modcloth to the rescue. Just type in the word beach in their search box and you get all kind of ready to wear cruise ship outfits and accessories so that you can look fabulous everyday of the trip.

We hope that you will have a fun May!

Don't forget to drop a line once in a while. We would love to hear from you!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson

TWW APRIL LETTER

2012-04-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome dear guests to Time Warp Wives! We are delighted to have you over.

We hope that you are having a delightful day. It is again that time of the year where we take out our scrubbers, feather dusters, baking soda, and vinegar and turn our homes into a "Contaminated Hazard Environment. Specialist. At Work. Please Stay Away!" Don't you just love Spring cleaning?

Just the other day as my hubby and I where driving back home after buying a $10 filing cabinet from a garage sale we saw people everywhere cleaning their yards and organizing their garages. They all had a smile on their faces and waved at us. It was so nice to see folks happy and enjoying great weather while doing their Spring cleaning. It was like we have step into the movie Pleasantville. It was certainly a perfect day!

We have been wanting to get a filing cabinet for years. But we never got around to it. I have to confess I haven't been organized with our paperwork for quite so time now. Years ago I knew where every single bill and important paper was. Everything was neat and clean. But then when I acquired several health problems which made me mentally and physically tired I pretty much stopped filing papers. I just didn't have the energy for it.

Instead of the filing folder that I had used for years. I had a drawer where I would stick the bills into and hoped that they would somehow file themselves.Well that system never worked. And we were left with a big scary paper mess.

I am sorry to disappoint you all. Here I am, me a Time Warp Wife have big flaws too. Trust me I have been more than disappointed of myself. I have been super frustrated because I couldn't take care of those papers like I use to.

There were times that I tried tackling the paper mess. You see after the drawer would get full I would get several hardy plastic garbage bags. One I would use for filling papers and another I would use for garbage. After I was finished I would throw the one with unwanted papers inside the garbage can and the other bag I would drag it to the garage and would toss it there. And that was that.

No wonder one day when my mother in- law saw our garage she called us hoarders. I admit I was quite offended by what she said. Especially when she knew that I have a bad back, a herniated disc, and a painful case of sciatica. Although I didn't agree with being called a hoarder, I could see why she would call us that.

Yes, our garage is one of those places that can't seem to stay organized. And at this moment our garage is pretty messy. Good thing my mother in-law is not visiting us any time soon. Besides the big plastic garbage bags filled with papers, we have boxes filled with books, old clothes, stuff animals. kitchen dishes. We have several dressers that the previous owners left behind. We have patio furniture that we haven't been able to use because we no longer have a patio like we use to. We have lawn stuff, we have car stuff, we have a lot of stuff. Stuff is everywhere. Stuff is coming out of old boxes that I am even scared to venture to stick my hand into.

Trust me I have also tried to tackle that garage on my own the best that I can. But I just don't have the stamina to finish the job. And after a week later it is back to square one again. Yikes!!! I even been wanting to pay someone to help me organized it. But hubby keeps saying that it is his responsibility that he will take care of it, "one of these days." Help!

You see hubby and I have our own house chores to take care of. I take care of everything inside the home. That would include our Master Bedroom and Master Bathroom. Hubby's men cave/office. My Paris Room. Guest Bathroom. Living Room. Dinning Room. Kitchen. Besides cleaning, sweeping, dusting I do laundry, iron clothes, cook meals, feed doggie. I also take care of the financial things of the house and make sure that bills are paid.

Hubby on the other is and has always been the bread winner. So far I have been fortunate that I haven't had the need to work. Of course there were times when hubby had lost his job that I had to step in. As far as hubby's chores, he takes care of the front lawn and the backyard. He cleans the car. Takes out the garbage and recycling bin. And lately because of my back problems he has been bathing doggie. And yes, he is in charge of the garage.

I am happy and proud to say that hubby and I look after one another. And we enjoy taking care of our chores. But we like any other family out there have plenty room for improvement. And that is where the cabinet purchase comes in.

You see my main Spring cleaning goal for this year would be to start organizing those scary frightening papers. I don't know how long it's going to take me. I am just looking straight to the finish line.

Now hubby was sneaking that day that we brought in the new cabinet into the house. He wanted for the cabinet to stay in our kitchen nook. As an interior decorator I had to put my foot down, "No sorry babe, this cabinet is going into the garage." "But the cabinet won't fit into the garage", said hubby while looking at me with those cute baby blue eyes." Then I asked, "is it because you don't want to clean the garage that you want to keep this cabinet here?" Hubby looked at me. He knows that he married a smart wife.

And just the other night as I was getting my evening dress ready for a special event my clothes rod broke and all my clothes fell down to the ground. So right now my Paris Room is filled with clothes everywhere. Hubby promised to make me a closet with some metal rods that we have stashed away, you know where, in the garage.

Oh Boy. I have a feeling that this is going to be a long, very long month of April!

We hope that you will have a great exciting month of April with far less chores to do!

Don't forget to drop a line once in a while. We would love to hear from you!

See ya later toots!

Your Hostess,

Carmen Johnson