Vie Chaotique

We Have a Winner

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:24:00 +0000

And so we bid a fond adieu to One World One Heart. Until next year, I hope. It's been a blast.

I know I got more out of our little adventure than I put in. I spent a fervent week surfing new blogs from all over the world. Met some awesome people. Saw some even more awesome art. Was inspired. Gained hope.

Seeing so many gorgeous, beautiful, insane and ,yes, just plain wonderful blogs gave me a boost. I got busy. Gave my little ole blog a makeover.

SO enough about me. Let's talk about my winner. Using a very scientific method, which involved my yelling across the house to my darling hubby "pick a number between 1 and 273." To which he answered "What?" and "What For? After some further interrogation he chose a number.

"57". I am thrilled becuase after reading her blog I found her to be a Craigslist afficianado and a girl after my own heart. The lovely and talented Shirl of "Life on an Artistic Shoestring" will soon find herself the owner of an Eiffel Tower Pendant from little ole moi.

Isn't Anyone Going to Mention My Makeover?

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:41:00 +0000

That is to say my blog's makeover? I am very interested on whether you like it or not so please leave me comments.

I thought the blog needed a little excitement so I spent the day yesterday experimenting and this is what I came up with. I am happy with the end result for now. Impressed myself since I did not know really what I was doing. It was a matter of trial and error. Anyway it was fun lots of fun and can be addicitive.

Am in love with Linda Warlin's dolls in Somerset Studio so I wanted to share some pics with you here. I am very big on harlequin, always have been, so I took that as part of my inspiration here. I wish my photos were better so you could really appreciate her work.

As you probably already heard, some good news on CSPIA mandatory lead testing. It has been postponed a year. That'll at least give folks more time to react to whatever changes will need to be made.

I also wanted to share with you this awesome floral arrangement. The colors are breathtaking and the combination so unique.

Can you believe the outstanding response to One World One Heart? I only have over 200 comments for my giveaway - which just floored me. I have met some fantastic people and seen some great work. I actually plan on posting about some of my favorite finds. But not until after the giveaways. I have my eye on some prizes and don't need any more competition. If you haven't singed up for my giveaway please make sure you comment under my original post dated January 20,regarding my giveaway. Comment cutoff for the giveaway is Feb 12 at 8:00 PM EST when I will make a random draw and choose my winner.

Repeal or Reform CSPIA HR4040

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 06:37:00 +0000

Reprinted from womentakewing.blogspot.com Jan 18, 2008

If you manufacture, wholesale, retail, sell or buy products, either new or used, for use by children you will be impacted by The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CSPIA), the first stage of which will go into effect Feb. 10.

The law, aimed at keeping lead containing merchandise away from children, mandates that all products sold for those age 12 and younger -- including but not limited to clothing, toys, books, sporting equipment, bikes, etc. -- be tested for lead and phthalates, which are chemicals used to make plastics more pliable. Those that haven't been tested will be considered hazardous, regardless of whether they actually contain lead.

Makers of children's goods cannot rely on materials known to be safe, even if the manufacturer of materials and supplies has already tested and certified them as being lead free. Instead they must put a sample from each lot of goods (each model, each size, each color....) through testing after complete assembly, and the testing must be applied to each component. Testing is costly and for each component could cost upwards of $100.00. For items comprised of many components the tab for testing could easily reach into the thousands of dollars.

This law will certainly affect large manufacturers, but small businesses and micro businesses less able to absorb the costs of testing, will be even harder hit. Many small producers who have prided themselves on providing safe products for children fear for their business survival and in many cases their very livelihood.

In recent weeks protests have begun to mount, alarms have been raised at hundreds of blogs, forums and within business groups, including ours, Women Take Wing! We urge you to educate yourself about the CSPIA, and hope you will join us in a call to our elected officials to repeal or at the least reform this poorly written and broad reaching piece of legislation.To date, few major media sources have picked up this story. One of the best was written by Walter Olson and published on January 16 by Forbes.com . Please write and/or email your local television stations asking for them to give airtime to this issue. Email your congressperson and submit your comments to the Consumer Product Safety Commission which is charged with enforcing the CSPIA. Take the time to sign one of the many online petitions. Together we can make a difference.For additional information:http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/legislation.html http://nationalbankruptcyday.com/
http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6627969.html http://blogs.consumerreports.org/safety/2009/01/cpsia-concerns.html

or just do an internet search on "CSPIA" to find many articles and blog entries.Online petitions (a few):

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/economicimpactsofCPSIA/index.html http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/reform-cpsia-hr4040/sign.html http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/handmadetoys/Class Action Lawsuit:http://reformcpsia.org/2009/01/class-action-lawsuit/To submit a question to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, click here.To submit comments regarding mandatory third-party testing, click here.

Got Cake?

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 02:59:00 +0000

Stampington recently put out a call for artists to participate in a Marie Antoinette challenge.

I am freak for Marie. It's the fashion, I know it is. And of course all the Frenchness!

Now I had never ever made a piece before, well probably not since I was in grade school. So I was a little trepidatious. Then I read Sandra Everston who encourages us that what we make does not have be perfect, just beautiful.

Well, that's all I needed to hear. I got out a gluestick and got to work. Now, I don't know if my piece will be published. The magazine will be published in April, 2009. We'll have to wait and see.

In the meantime here's peak. I call it "Got Cake". Marie's motto was "You can never be too rich or too thin." Please excuse my photos. If you doubleclick on the image it should come up a bit larger for your viewing. The project did come out prettier than my pics.

My Engagement

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:08:00 +0000

Many many moons ago when Mr. Vie and I were just dating he presented me a sewing machine. He thought that since I loved clothes it would only be natural that I would be a whiz at conjuring up my own couture confections.

Trouble was I had not sewn since I was 12. The machine that he bought me wasgifted me with was a top of the line, with all sort of fancy options. I was totally, unabashedly and equivocally intimidated.

Not to mention that for whatever reason I had gotten it in my head that I was getting an engagement ring that Christmas. (Never mind that I had said REPEATEDLY that I did not want nor need a ring. No longer do I play the coquette. Mr. Vie needs to be told things direct and to the point. He is not of the subtle hint variety -- I learned this the hard way) Long story short the machine still languishes unused in my closet.

I have been tempted to pull it out on a number of occasions. But never "sew" much so than now. Look at this, pure inspiration. Grosgrain Fabulous calls it her Lunch Date. (I guess that's what got me to thinking engagement, date --- get it? I know that I am opening up the competition but "sew" be it. She's actually generous enough (or is it nuts enough?) to be giving this beauty away. (I know that my puns are out of control here...sorry.)

PS Not only did I receive an engagement ring but on my recent 12th anniversary he gifted me with a gorgeous anniversary ring. And if I win this blouse I might just have to return the favor and take him on a date.

It's Been An Exciting Day, Hasn't It?

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 03:11:00 +0000

New hope, new president, new optimism. It snowed in Charlotte today, which is a rare occurrence and added to the day feeling like a grand holiday.

To top it all off I was strolling through blog land and came across One World One Heart. This is exciting stuff, people!!!

Lisa from a Whimsical Bohemian started this event a couple of years ago. It's one giant giveaway, but, more than that it's a way to meet and bond with bloggers from all over the world. I spent a couple of hours this evening visiting different folks, who I am certain I will be friends with in the future.

SO where do we begin???

Each blogger involved is having a giveaway, you can find a list of everyone here OWOH (There's more than 300 blogs --- lots and lots of great treats you can win.)

I am giving away one of my blinged out hand collaged Eiffel tower pendant necklaces.

For a chance to win my giveaway you need to leave me a comment on THIS post here. My giveaway is open to active bloggers only. I need to be able to contact the winner so make sure you give me an email address. The giveaway ends February 12th,2009 at 8:00 PM EST when I'll announce my winner chosen at random.

Also If you want to learn more about this event please click here OWOH.

Have fun and good luck!!!

Practical Reigns as Posh

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:34:00 +0000

Bonne Anne!

I am probably the last one to wish you the best this new year, seeing as this post is so late! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season. I find myself very optimistic for 2009 and all our futures. You have to break some eggs to make an omelet. That's the stage we seem to be in right now.

I am going to attend an altered book club meeting this weekend. It's a White Elephant exchange. (You know where everyone brings in a dud of a gift and exchanges it for something someone else has brought in.) I have to say there were no duds this year!!! I think we are all putting extra time into our gift giving. As pennies are tight people really seem to be all the more conscientious that there gifts be useful. In my book, practical reigns as posh.

So I think I will just grab a candle from my shop, VC. These are from the last factory in France that still makes its candles by hand. The Orange and Cinnamon will be just the thing to get us through the rest of the winter. (Long burning, gorgeous long lasting fragrance) $22.00. And I promise worth every cent. (I just hope my White Elephant friend is not disappointed to get something I love rather than a discard).

We are also exchanging ATC'S. If you like me are uninitiated to this, they are Artist Trading Cards. They are traded and collected 2 1/2 x 3 1/2" cards and you can paint, draw, embellish, collage and plain just go nuts. We were giving the theme "Resolution". This is the one I made. It's my first effort so I am pretty happy with it.

Va Va Va and Voom

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 05:04:00 +0000

Paris at Christmas. Breathtaking, Oui?

I Am My Mama's Daughter

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:09:00 +0000

Today I found a fantastic new magazine, Boho. On their website I found this. I guess I am a Bohemian --- and proud of it.

I have been suffering from writer's block. After making my pledge that I was going to be happy no matter what --- well society as we knew it started to crumble and I started to watch the news and worry.

My mama was a world class olympic triathalon of a worrier. It's a shame that worriers don't get to have an actual event - she would have brought home the gold.

As all good daughters do I attempt to rebel. I have tried to rebel against this prediliction for ages. Sometimes more successfully than others. My mom has been gone a few years. Sometimes now I remember some of her momisms and have to laugh out loud.

I grew up in the seventies a well protected, private school girl who loved her rock and roll. Along with this was a love of long haired musicians. I must have been about 13 when I hung a bunch of their posters in my room. My mom saw this and took the posters down claiming "She was not about to raise a bohemian". I didn't even know what that meant - but it sounded right up my alley.

Later through the years when she went to describe me she would call me a bohemian. (Mom was a dyed in the wool Liz Claiborne seperates kind of gal). I think she said it with pride and perhaps a little envy.

TA DA

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 23:40:00 +0000

Here is my collection of microscope slide pendants that I am currently making and selling on Etsy. They are all have either a French vintagey feel or a nature/bird motif. If you are interested in wholesale for your own shop, please drop me a line. The first picture shows the necklace fronts, and the second shows the backview of these necklaces. The front and back of each pendant is diffent so it is like getting two necklaces in one.

These make great gifts, You can also use these to hang from a window, from a rear view mirror, to use as a gift tag or to adorn a lamp shade or pull, or vase. How will you use yours? Each pendant hangs from a generous length of ribbon.

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:19:00 +0000

This afternoon my husband and I were taking care of some business matters. As we sat in the lobby of that prestigious office waiting for our appointment I overheard a conversation that made me want to weep.

It was so simple and so pure. I think that the reason it touched me so was the source was so unexpected and seemed so unflappable. Here stood a very buttoned up, polished, seemingly powerful business man in a conference room surrounded by an amazing panoramic view and leather tufted furnishings. I can only assume that he was talking to one of his clients as he said to the caller "Be kind to each other. We are all hurting now".

I truly believe that we will all come out of our country's issues stronger and more humble. As a society we need to take from what is happening, learn from our collective mistakes and come out the other side.

I also ask you if you have moved in the last four years to make sure that your voter's registration is up to date, immediately, as deadlines in most states are coming up very soon. Take the time to learn the issues at hand and truly reflect on who you think will best represent our country going forward. Remember that if you don't vote it's like giving your vote to your opponent.

What I've Been Up To

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:54:00 +0000

This summer just flew by didn't it? Recently my husband suggested a day trip to Black Mountain, NC. I did a quick search on the internet and found the Bella Luna bed and breakfast that turned out to be absolutely charming. The hosts were wonderful, the decor comfortable and sparkling clean and the food tasty. Our room was called the Nobel Suite and included a sleep in porch that was really cozy. (the first three pictures here are of the inn. sorry I don't have a picture of our room - you'll just have to plan a visit and see for yourself.)

Black Mountain is an artist community tucked in the Blue Ridge mountains. While there I visited the Seven Sisters Gallery, which specializes in gorgeous Made In America art. The owner Andrea loved my necklaces and bought a slew for the gallery. I was flattered because she has a phenomenal range of jewelry. Andrea's story is one of following your bliss. She worked at the gallery for many years and when she was 29 with two small children, the opportunity to purchase it came up, and she took it. (If you are wondering 7 sisters is the nickname of the mountain ridge.

I had the book The Last Girls by Lee Smith, sitting on my shelf for a couple years, without ever opening it. I don't even remember how I acquired it or who recommended it. I had read everything I had in the house but for some reason skipped over this treasure. I have to tell you it was great. I am a huge fan of Anne Tyler and this book is in the same vein. One of the fun things is at the end of the book there is an interview with the author as the inspiration for the book is a true story. I won't get into the plot but recommend that you read the book.

Muses

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:13:00 +0000

If you have read my blog before you may know that I, like everyone else I guess, am on journey of self discovery. Having my shop and this blog have led me down the rabbit hole to Stampington and finally to ladies like such as Sandra Everston and Catherine Moore.

One of the promises I made to myself this year was to work on my creativity. I have always had fashion, entertaining and decorating sense I am not being arrogant it took me until this week, and alot of navel contemplating. to be able to say this. Friends, family and my husband have always told me I am creative. To me this seemed like too good a compliment. Yet have never attempted to interpret myself outside of this. Since my husband is an artist. I thought I was on relegated to the sidelines.

I am proud to say that this week I created my first real work. I am thrilled with my result for being a novice. I am not ready to unveil it yet - I am not being coy... just want to work my way up to showing others. A little inspiration goes a long way. Who knew what paper and a gluestick could do? I believe that this is only the beginning for me.

One lady who does amazing paper craft is the Queen of Denmark. In fact truth be known I have been tempted to try something like this for several years when I first became familiar with the Queen's work. The photo here is one of 25 decoupages that she did for a reissue of HC Andersen's Snow Queen. I have been searching for better images to share with you to no avail. Regretably I gave the book away thinking that I could get another and have not been able to track it down since.

I never thought that I would or could be good enough to be an "artist". One thing that was very liberating was a line from Sandra's book that says that you don't need to create something perfect, just beautiful. Isn't that a freeing thought? If you read the Oprah interview with Maria Shriver then you know that many of us have the not good enough malaise. We just have to stive for beautiful without being perfect.

And the Winner Is...

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:04:00 +0000

Rhonda from Alberta, come on down. Thank you all SITS Ladies for your overwhelming response. I'll just say you girls really love your candles, I have been trying to get back to you individually to thank you and to check out all these new blogs I am getting to know. Please visit often. I have really enjoyed all your encouragement this week on my boutique's offerings. Felt just like Christmas.

Welcome SITS Sisters

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 01:17:00 +0000

I am so glad you found me!!! Kick back and enjoy your visit. Wish I could offer each of you a glass of pinot grigio. I try to keep my blog interesting and informative. We talk about travel and style mostly. Sometimes I get a bee in my bonnet. But mostly try to keep things light and chic.

I am going to have tons of interesting and affordable merchandise added to my on line boutique Vie Chaotique and my Etsy shop in the coming days and hope that you consider shopping with me for all your gift giving needs. Here you see some of my slide pendants that I am selling on Etsy. I collage themself myself and hang them on a silk ribbon, they have been such a joy to make. I have a hard time picking a favorite. Only $24.00 plus shipping, if you can believe it!

Did you see the spread in Elle Decor this month of the home that Jonathan designed for Nanette Lepore, the clothing designer? A match made in heaven. If you haven't seen it yet here's a link to the article http://www.jonathanadler.com/shop/press/ElleDecor%209.08.pdf

To congratulate Jonathan Vie Chaotique is offering free shipping within the continental USA for any item from Jonathan that I carry for the rest of the month of August. Now is the time to treat yourself to a needlepoint zebra rug or a piece or Muse Pottery. The rug is a great size 5' x 7' and looks great practically anywhere. Muse vase is great with or without flowers. And the Muse candle smells like heaven. To avoid disappointment hurry and order I only have a few pieces left in stock.

My hubby is a steampunk artist and also has an Etsy shop where he is featuring a fantasy clock you need to see to believe.

And don't forget to sign up for our drawing. Some lucky blogette is going to have a gorgeous pair of Ana Candles turn up on her doorstep very soon!

Eiffel Tower Microscope Slides

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 01:03:00 +0000

I have always been inspired by collagists (if that's a word?) And so I decided to come out with a range of my own about 30 designs with France, Asia and Flappers as major influences. I have been having a lot of fun designing my own images and creating my slides which I call "slivers" and will be loading them on Etsy later this weekend. I think these things are a lot of fun. Used different images on the front and back so that they are completely reversible. (I hate wearing a necklace that when it flips doesn't have anything to show for itself! This one has a bunch of pearls and rhinestones. I wear mine around my neck, but it would be fun as a fan pull, or hanging from your rearview mirror, around an old bottle or vase or as an gift wrap embellishment. I love wrapping a present with a present. Imagine a bouquet of flowers wrapped in pretty tissue and tied together with a sliver. I offer my first one here. Very interested to know what you think.

It's funny because I have never considered myself artsy...creative yes but not an artist. But I now have a ton scrap and think that I am ready to take on a bigger project. My biggest issue was coming up with an idea and now I have broken the ice and am teeming with things I want to make.

I Just Adore Etsy

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 20:29:00 +0000

I truly do. I have done a lot or shopping myself there as I am very interested in helping small artists and vendors. Many of the wrapping supplies I use for my shop like stickers and rubber stamps I have purchased there. For truly unique tees for my hubby and his warped sense of humor, no one does it better than Etsy! You can find so many treasures from custom wedding favors to adorable baby garb to exciting vintage finds. And best of all if you are impatient like me there is not bidding involved. You just buy what you want and you are done!

SO this morning I have taken the plunge myself and Viechaotique opened a little etsy shop of my own. I am selling some of my personal vintage collection. I have enjoyed these pieces to no end but feel the need to let someone else love them too. I hope that you enjoy taking a walk down memory lane as I have today looking at some of my treasures. They are in wonderful collection and am sure will bring much joy for many years to come.

In the coming days I will be posting on some of my favorite Etsy artists. Including a couple of collaborations that Vie is working on with other artists. Above is a sneak peek the Chanel perfume bottle from Emma Kisstina is going to become available as a t-shirt!

Above is a custom banner from Storia Home, a friend of this blog...she can make them custom and for any occasion , and a tee from LuckyBunny both of whom are lovely etsy folk.

We Can Do It - Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:14:00 +0000

Donnie Deutsch is the best, just so positive, kind of cute and funny too. You can tell he loves his job. The Big Idea is uplifting and a must for business people. I have been having insomnia for weeks and caught a really good show of his late last nite that I'd like to share. The theme was ta da...being happy. Seems there are studies out there that happy people earn 40% more than unhappy folks. Now one can argue that these people are happy becuase they earn more but actually the study explains that their positive outlook makes them more attractive interviewees and employees.

Now I know that we can't wave a magic wand to make this happen, all this happiness. But Donnie being Donnie had several experts on including Sonja Lyubomirsky who has written a book on how to be happy. On the CNBC website she has a condensed version of her 12 step plan. Here's the link. http://www.cnbc.com/id/25708262/

Now if you are a long time reader of Vie you may remember that I lived in Denmark for several years. A global happiness survey has been conducted for the last 30 years and Denmark always comes up on top. The survey has been done for the last 30 years and Denmark always wins. I can vouch for this. People are not as materialistic, and make more of an event out of every day. What everyone strives for in their home and entertaining is "hygge". Loosely translated it is a feeling of coziness and well being. Candles are always lit, whether at home or in the cafes. A small, carefully arranged flower grouping is always at the table. Furnishings are chosen for life. Parties are planned with great care. And everyone knows that their responsiblity is to be a good guest and conversationalist.

At lunchtime in any office, the whole dept puts aside any talk of work to enjoy the half hour meal together and talk about the weather, the news, travel, etc. A gift is chosen with such tenderness, even if it is a business gift. To me it seems that it is done from affection and not duty. There's a lot of other examples but I think you understand.

Now the interesting thing about this survey is that Danes when interviewed said that the reason for their happiness is because they have lower expectations. I don't think that this is it, I think it is that they are satisfied. Less is more. (and five weeks of vacation a year mandated by the government, plus lots of great social benefits doesn't hurt either.) Another big part of it has to do with a reading that every school age child learns which basically says that no one is better than anyone else and that the society is as great as it's weakest link.

Before I lived in Denmark I did not truly understand how to savor a moment. My mom used to tease me about my impatience, always saying I was going to wear my wedding dress before my wedding. I was always looking for the next raise or promotion or whatever. Now the lessons I learned in Denmark sometimes get lost in my hustle and bustle American life but I do try to remember that this moment won't come by again, and that I need to enjoy it for all it's worth.

Tablecloths, really!?!?

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 03:45:00 +0000

I can't believe it. I am not a designer and I knew that tablecloths were a bad choice. We are talking Project Runway - by the way. I sat on my couch for 45 minutes shaking my head in disbelief. I know you were too!

My humble opinion - all the tablecloth people, and the garbage bag lady should have been sent home on basic principle. Come on she dresses Deborah Harry and doesn't realize that Debbie wore garbage bags - what, 30 years ago.

And the guy who lost - his comment earlier to Tim that there wasn't enough inspiration at the market...come on. They should just let Tim put some of these folks out of their misery and surprise auf them in the workroom. Now there is an idea! Bravo are you listening?

Now the winner (here above) was remarkable. Thumbtacks for belt studs, hook and eye made from the spine of a spiral notebook, lace made from coffee filters burned to replicate a lace effect, and vacuum cleaner bags painted and bleached. That's creativity, and the escapism that I expect from this show.

I had high hopes at the start of tonite's episode - a lot of interesting, seemingly talented folk. Hope that they redeem themselves.

We Can Do It

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 04:32:00 +0000

That's it - we have reached my level of saturation on the bad news front. The media's constant rehashing is not helping any of our problems one iota: the war, stock market plunges, layoffs, inflation, gas prices, housing decline, foreclosures, our leadership, and the list goes on and on. Enough with the Pollyanna sky is falling. Yes things are bad, awful even - but enough already or we are all going to wind up in an asylum.

I am on a one woman crusade: I am burying my head in the sand like the wise ostrich. For better or worse I have stopped watching the news today.

If you have read or heard of The Secret or the Law of Attraction you know that the philosophy is the more we dwell on the negative the less able we are to accept or bring forward the positive. Focusing on the ills of the world does not seem to be making one bit of change for the better. We have been let down, that's true - It's time we each roll up our sleeves and figure out what we each as individuals can do to make our own future a little brighter. All the cliches apply here especially the sun will come out tomorrow. We might not be able to fix the ills of the world but we can work on ourselves. Woe is me is not helping. (and by the way I think that McCain's advisor saying that we have become a nation of whiners - well I can't believe I am saying this but I have to agree with him - although not in the context of his comment.)

Our grandparents didn't lick their wounds, they did what they could do to reverse their fortunes by whatever means necessary with back breaking work and sacrifice. And now it is our turn. The way I see it we don't have any more time to waste.

Here is my manifesto:

I choose to be happy.

I will make sound judgements to correct whatever issues I am facing.

I will make positive strides everyday to correct the issues I face - one step at a time.

I know that some people are facing huge obstacles, much larger than I hope to ever know but it is what you do to overcome those obstacles that matters!

So - are you with me?

Happy 4th

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 21:40:00 +0000

We have missed a few fourths of July while living out of the country. We tried to make up for it: a bunch of Americans gathered together to have a barbecue at someone's house, and as charming as it was - it just was not the same. We have also had our share of lovely rooftop viewings of fireworks or sitting at the park watching a parade.

But the most spectacular 4th for me by far was several years ago. A customer of my then employer is a towing company. It drays large ocean vessels in New York harbor. The towing company was generous enough to share their vessels with us, each year, so that we could participate in a tour of New York Harbor. My company used to have a lottery to see who would get to go. The year I was chosen I had to go on a business trip. Granted the trip was to Italy but still my heart sank, knowing that I was going to miss out on a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Miraculously enough the next year my name was called again. Nothing was stopping my husband and I from going, we planned our outfits carefully, and waited with anticipation.

So many people had participated in the lottery that our hosts actually sailed two vessels that night with 60 of us on each. We got to the pier that night and there was a mammoth barbecue with anything you would want to eat.

At 7:30 the vessels boarded. The second vessel even had a dj. So there was much dancing waiting for the fireworks. And at 9:00, with tears in my eyes and my husband's arms around me, I saw one of the greatest sites ever. The New York skyline lit up to proclaim to all how proud we are, despite our differences and our faults. The tears streaming down my face were for my relatives, in fact my own mother, who had spent time in Ellis island to afford me that moment which will always be frozen in my heart.

Just for Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 18:29:00 +0000

I think you'll enjoy this. Not a joke. This is actually a technological advancement:

http://gizmodo.com/5016550/rfid-robotic-chair-follows-you-around-for-constant-seating

Who Decides the New Black

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 23:57:00 +0000

It is not solely coincidence that dictates what colors and styles are hot each season. It is a calculated business decision. Part of this fascinating science is called color forecasting and some believe it's history dates as far back as the mid 17th century.

Twice a year, a group of influential designers and key fabric manufacturers gather at the Manhattan offices of organizations such asthe Color Association and Stahl to forecast the tastes of we shoppers--two years ahead of us deciding we have a craving for fuschia. Yearly choices are always within the framework of ‘color cycles,’ which only change every few years. The cycles last between two and seven years for fashion, but between seven and 15 years for interiors.

The association is one of a handful of arbitrating organizations in New York and Paris that sit at the head of the fashion food chain.

From the entire range of Panetone colors, this gathering will predict color trends and selects shades, coming up with clear-cut groups that they believe will become popular. Many indicators for inspiration will be taken into account: for example what's hot at the box office, political climate, influential museum exhibitions. Public taste in everything from sofas to cars will also be surveyed.

Those colors are sent to subscribing members, who pay dues of upwards of one thousand dollars to receive a foldout chart of swatches. For women’s clothing, the chart shows scraps of fabric, while for menswear it focuses on colored threads.

To guarantee a frenzied fever for everything fuchsia is a financial risk for the clothing industry. But if the association experts stake their reputations on it, the risk becomes more managed. An additional benefit is that the predictions create a sort of consensus, which benefits the entire industry: The necessary fabric will be plentifully provided by similarly informed manufacturers, so designers know they what pallet to base their collection on taking into account materials available within their budgets.

Within the year, these colors will appear everywhere. Key is the decision of what fabric will be produced and made available. Fabric makers will weave bolts of material in the desired shades, fashion designers will build the hues into their collections and buyers from the largest store chains will scout for those colors as they weigh what to stock for the next six months.

These predictions have long reduced financial costs and confusion for the garment trade. While couture has the budget to select surprising shades and patterns for their collections, the makers of clothes for the average consumer are expected to be creative within extremely tight budgets.

Color forecasting helps the fashion industry operate with business-like efficiency. Based on the consensus color palette, clothes are produced and eagerly stocked by shops. Customers--who hear about trends from sources such as magazines and fashion-show runway reports--become influenced on what to buy for the upcoming season. Waste is low, and profits secured. Color prediction helps to guide the consumer to shop the way designers want.

Don't worry about the manufacturers ability to limit what creative designers can do. Lucky for us all, fashion will always have it's rebels and enfants terrible to break free from the fold.

And if you are curious about what you'll be wearing not this winter but next above I have borrowed Stahl's color chart for Fall/Winter 2009-2010.

My New T - Shirt Could Be Yours

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:38:00 +0000

Quote says "A Girl Should be Two Things; Classy & Fabulous." - coco chanel.

This says it all doesn't it? When I saw it you know I had to have one. I think you'll want one too! It can be yours for only $34.00 plus shipping and tax.

Quote says "A Girl Should be Two Things; Classy & Fabulous." - coco chanel.

It's a Black Destroyed Vintage Tee which has been garment washed & tag-free. Hand painted using eco-friendly dyes. Ultra-soft 100% cotton & totally comfy! Comes in sizes S, M, L, XL.

It will be available on Vie Chaotique's website for purchase very shortly. In the meantime I am taking preorders, so if you are interested in purchasing please let me know.

I can't wait to start wearing mine!

Priceless

noreply@blogger.com (Vie Chaotique) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:33:00 +0000

I did not write earlier about SATC because everyone else is.

I do want you to know that as a long time fan I was at the 10:00 AM showing of the morning the movie came out.

While I loved the clothes and the scenery and the girls and all of it, I was actually disappointed in Carrie. Warning: if you have not seen the movie yet here's a plot buster: I personally feel that she should not have married Big.

I also went thru a long 10 year courtship with all it's ups and downs but when we finally went to do it, my husband was the happiest guy in the world. No cold feet. A man of experience and the world like Big there are no cold feet to be had by that point, no ifs ands or buts. I know the point of the movie was that their love conquered all, but, I honestly felt robbed of the big wedding they richly deserved and all the pomp. Especially with the state of the world today, we deserved a gorgeous, over the top, decadent, economy be darned, big honking, optimistic extravanganza to end all time! If you don't agree, let me know.

Don't get me wrong - I enjoyed the film like most redblooded females. I even shed a few tears for Steve and Miranda on the bridge. But end of the day for me the high points of the movie were this bag and the Westwood dress bird and all.

Last night a friend mentioned that there was a new Audrey Tatou movie "Priceless". I hadn't heard of it. So I read some reviews. It had been panned. And the movie poster left me flat. But as an Audrey fan and Francophile, I rushed out anyway to the art house. The critics are wrong.

This movie captured for me the emotion that I had expected from SATC. It is "Breakfast at Tiffany's" for the year 2008. Even though much of what the main characters do is beyond contempt, they are just so darn charming that you love them, warts and all. At least I did. I won't spoil the show for you. Please go see it and let me know what you think.