Dog.Yarn.Knit.

Two For One!

2011-06-11T19:30:00.004-05:00

This race is incrediable! It's one of those races where you get out of the car

afterwards & sometimes just check you've got all your limbs in place.

-IndyCar Series Driver Dan Wheldon

(Indy 500 Champ 2005 & 2011)

If you hear me talk about the Indy 500 and IndyCar racing and you think to yourself, “Hmmm, sometime I think I might check that out. Jennifer sure is a geek about it. Maybe I’ll give it a look-see…”

And, if you have the Versus network…

TONIGHT is a great opportunity for you to check out IndyCar racing!

They're racing a doubleheader - The Firestone Twin 275s - at Texas Motor Speedway. The amount of laps they’d usually race will be split into two races - almost like sprints. So you could watch just one race…in half the time! A nice way to dip your toes into the IndyCar pool.

IndyCar at Texas is ALWAYS very, very exciting & action packed! They race wheel to wheel in excess of 220 mph, after dark under lights on a track with high banking. And, my goodness, they always get my heart rate up and and have me holding my breath at times as they’ll get three wide at times. Sometimes someone tries to be really brave (or stupid) and make it four wide.

Check it out! Like....NOW... I'm a little late in posting this. And race #1 is starting on Versus now.

Winng Car at Indianpolis

2011-06-11T19:28:00.001-05:00

I think this may be one of my favorite photos I've ever taken at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Carb Day - May 27th, 2011

IMS Museum & Hall of Fame

taken with my iPhone

Ah one, two, ah, one, two. Check, check...

2011-04-30T11:28:00.001-05:00

Hello First Time Callers, Long Time Listeners!

Well, I am trying to pick up my pens and pencils, pack up my pencil box, and get back on this blogging train.

I've missed it. I've missed you. I've missed the outlet and the creative process.

I suppose for awhile there was just too much going on in my life....in the lives around me... And, quite honestly, I seemed to lack the time, focus, energy, motivation, and creative juices.

Now, there's some planning going on behind the scenes for...well, let's just call it "more". I have some great resources and partners in my life who are lending knowledge, help, and support for things to come. Very blessed.

From time to time I'll be jotting out some things with a mobile app - that I'm still figuring out how to navigate. So if some posts look wonky or less pretty...you'll be gracious about it, won't you?

Looking forward,

Jennifer

Testing

2011-04-13T21:22:00.001-05:00

Testing BlogWriter app.

Bowlin' (featuring Chris Tomlin)

2010-10-11T23:45:00.005-05:00

I have such a crush on Chris Tomlin. Sweet, sweet Chris Tomlin.

Chris, I want to thank you for such amazing, awe inspiring worship songs as...

Our God

God of This City

Indescribable

Holy Is the Lord

Jesus Messiah

Forever

Sing, Sing, Sing

We Fall Down

Mighty Is The Power of The Cross

Made to Worship...and your re-working of classic hymns -

Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)

The Wonderful Cross

But Christopher Dwayne Tomlin, I don't think I have ever loved you more than I do in this moment...

(Eric, thank you for posting this on my Facebook wall.)

Yeah, yeah, yeah people...I know he's engaged. My crush is one of admiration and musical appreciation.

Don't stop the world. I'm not ready to get off.

2010-09-17T10:00:00.002-05:00

Today the final episode of As the World Turns will air. I can't find the words. I have basically watched that show my entire life. Because my momma watched it. My grandmother watched it.

In the summertime we'd set our lunch schedule by, "The Show". "It's almost time for The Show. What do we want for lunch?"

Sandwiches on white toast with thick slices of homegrown tomatoes eaten in the family room before the TV while watching the families of Oakdale - The Hughes, The Stewarts, The Snyders...

I'm not ready to say good-bye. I don't have the words yet.

Hillsong - Like Incense (Sometimes By Step) - With Subtitles/Lyrics - HD...

2010-07-23T09:06:00.000-05:00

Brooke Fraser = love.

This song = love.

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T15:06:00.001-05:00

Indy 500: 8 days and counting...

2010-05-23T00:07:00.003-05:00

It's Indy 500 Pole Day y'all!

Thankfully the versus crew caught a conversation between the IRL’s COO Brian Barnhart and Team Owner Chip Gannasi that lead to a real gem from announcer Bob Jenkins. Nobody does it like you, Bob. Nobody.
Chip Gannasi to Brian Barnhart: That’s dirty pool.
That’s dirty pool.
That’s dirty pool.
That’s dirty pool
That’s dirty pool Bri-aaannnnn……
You know what’s going on there…..
That’s *#&*!$!*! …… that’s *#&*!$!*!

(From the broadcast booth...)

ANNOUNCER BOB JENKINS: We apologize for the language. But that’s a valid point.

Easter Sunday at Broadway Church

2010-04-04T16:27:00.004-05:00

We had amazing times of worship for our Easter services last night & this morning at our main church campus! All of the vocalists from our Melrose campus worship team (except one...who gave birthday last night....so she's excused) sang together. There were about a dozen of us total and we had some church!!!

I think this turned out to be one of my favorite "special choirs" we've done so far. We kept it simple, with mostly two to three part harmonies, as we lead the church in worship of our risen Redeemer.

Worship Set List

My Savior Lives (New Life)
My Redeemer Lives (Hillsong)
All Because of Jesus (Fee)
Bless the Lord (Carl Cartee)
Christ is Risen (Matt Maher)

This was the first time we've sung Matt Maher's Christ is Risen. I'll admit, this song did not have me at hello. But it definitely grew on me at this week's rehearsal. By this morning the little hairs on my head were standing on end as we closed worship with it.

Broadway UMC - broadwayunited.org

Let Your Name Be Lifted Higher

2010-04-04T16:18:00.002-05:00

You are stronger you are stronger
Sin is broken
You have saved me
It is written
Christ is risen
Jesus You are Lord of all

Christ Is Risen!

2010-04-04T16:10:00.003-05:00

check out....

2010-03-28T19:17:00.002-05:00

Better Than a Hallelujah, the first single from Amy Grant's album that releases Tuesday, March 30.

Listen

2010-02-27T12:16:00.001-06:00

she who laughs...

2010-02-24T20:52:00.010-06:00

One of my dearest friends posted this photo on Facebook today. It was taken about 16 or 17 years ago during a meal at campus ministry retreat in Indiana. My friend, Nate, and I are stopped in the middle of the room laughing. It's one of my favorite photos of myself. Ever. Ever ever. In the history of ever. I look at that photo and see my true self. There I am in a room full of people with my head tilted back laughing with my whole being.

That is me. That is me being free. That is me inviting others to the party.

The people in my life who know ME will likely tell you that when they picture Jennifer they picture someone who looks like the girl in that photo.

When that Jennifer isn't around - for a variety of reasons - things do not feel right.

But, there have been a lot of times when that Jennifer has felt misunderstood. Like a liability. Embarrassed of and by herself. She’s felt her cheeks go flushed from the glare of people who don’t understand and think she laughs too loudly. Her laughter sounds like noise. Her very self, a handicap. Unwanted, unneeded.

Something to be punished for.

Something to be ashamed of.

Do you know how much energy it takes to bottle up a personality that big? But she has to find a way to package all of that up no matter how exhausting it will be. Being like this is no way to live.

She feels like she is too much.

She feels like no one wants to be around her.

And then there are times when that Jennifer is just NOT IN THE MOOD. She has come down with a fever and needs to crawl under the covers and hide under mounds of quilts and pillows. This is not a simple case of the sniffles. She does not feel like being around and knows it would be better to stay tucked away than to risk getting anyone else sick. Forcing her to come out and play just prolongs recovery. It makes her wish for more quilts and pillows to be piled on. She just wants to be alone. But she gets lonely and would love a hug. Would love to be held. She does not have the energy to get dolled up. Yet doesn't want to be seen this way. She tells herself that's to protect the people around her - spare them from her. But maybe that's an excuse. Maybe it's a matter of courage and trust and vulnerability. Once again, she feels misunderstood. Embarrassed. Fearful. She misses herself. This is exhausting and no way to live.

She feels like she is not enough.

She feels like no one wants to be around her.

When certain people begin to notice her absence it's…
a criticism.
a taunting.
a good riddance.
a "see ya later" from a fair weather friend.

But the ones who matter and miss her...their words feel like...
a phone call from an old friend.
an invitation to come out and play.
a bright yellow greeting card…. “thinking of you”...
or "get well soon".
an apology.
a request for music.
an invitation to dance.
an invitation to be me.

Oops, I did it again.

2010-02-02T21:49:00.002-06:00

Not again! Did I forget that I have a blog?

snow

2010-01-07T11:33:00.000-06:00

It may not be much. But it is mine.

There is hope for more to come.

what are ya doing....?

2010-01-01T00:29:00.001-06:00

I love this song...

the one where i wear bras on my head

2009-12-30T00:21:00.015-06:00

We ladies like the feel of a new bra. Unlike a pair of well worn, broken in jeans, we like a bra who’s elastic is still confident and springy. We like a bra who’s fit is right (If you don’t know what I mean, get yourself measured by a professional. It’s worth the time and exposure in front of a stranger. Truly.) We enjoy the fabric smooth and unstained by time...Secret or Degree. Or that new sweater that you thought was fairly color safe. But as it turns out, you were wrong.

There is just something gratifying in the coming home from that demanding shopping trip, opening your chest of drawers (or other undergarment keeping place), and tucking away new bras as you admire their charming lace and pleasing colors. It is confidence boosting to know you’ll be a cutting a smooth silhouette the next time you wear that bleeding sweater...

After 25+ years of bra wearing experience I have realized that it is worthwhile to make bra shopping an event. So I treat myself to the semi-annual BUY 2 GET 2 sale at my favored bra hawker (which does NOT start with “V” and end with “Secret”). I turn it into an Olde Fashioned Bra Trying On Party. I stick with some tried and true styles of the past. Give something new a chance. Add an interesting color or piece of lace. Replace that comfy cotton t-shirt bra whose elastic has lost its zing. Stay away from gimmicky tassels and over-sized bows...Always purchase one new nude bra.

But we’ve only covered the up side, thus far. If you’ve gone through this chore you know what I mean to when alluding to the down-side of bra shopping. We’ll even skip past the jungle that is the bra racks and its cruel tricks that include, but are not limited to, a love-at-first-sight experience with a very cute color/pattern that’s unlike anything in your current undergarment assortment at home only to find all that’s left hanging on the rack are three 32A’s, one 38B, and two 42FFF's.

We’ll jump right into the trauma that goes on in the dressing room.First, you’ve got to fight with those little plastic hangers that might as well be made of sporks and Pick-Up-Sticks once you introduce rigid, doubled pieces of elastic.

Then you’ve gotta play, “Pin the strap length on the sliding mechanism apparatus thingie!”

Next comes that whole seeing yourself naked in tri-fold, triplicate, and florescent mood lighting.

Then comes...
Going around your butt to get to your elbow maneuver of getting the thing on.
Realizing that you hate it and it’s the most uncomfortable thing ever to wrap around your body.
Wondering if you may have broken a rib.
Realizing you have broken a sweat.
Scratching your delicate skin with an inanely placed security tag.
Scratching your delicate skin with an inanely placed price tag.
Scratching your delicate skin with an inanely placed tag that claims this bra can make your breast do things no breast can possibly do...without the assistance of a plastic surgeon.
Realizing you have fabric burn below your arm pits.
And maybe a rash.
Realizing that last bra may have actually been fairly comfortable. But you may be misremembering and confused by the current bra you’re wearing that is cutting off the oxygen supply to your brain. And darn it, you may have to try the prior bra on again...once the feeling returns to your arms...
Having a good laugh when the bra labeled “plunge” makes your girls look like the only plunge they’re taking is a sky diving expedition.
Having a good cry when the bra labeled “plunge” makes your girls look like the only plunge they’re taking is a sky diving expedition.

As I was in the dressing room this afternoon fighting with less than a yard of elastic and lyrcra permeated fabric I could overhear the conversation of a husband and wife who were also partaking in the semi-annual “Pretend Bra Shopping Is Fun!” Event.

He begrudgingly brought her new sizes and colors as she bemoaned from behind the dressing room walls, “Why does this one feel like it’s smothering me?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!!”

He sighed heavily. She nearly cried.

He grew impatient. She soldiered on.

He contended he really liked the last one. She maintained it tried to smother her.

He huffed. She tried to appease.

And so I said, “Dude, why don’t you man-up and try on three or four of these things while your skin gets all irritated and pink and you lose sensation in your rib cage. And then I want you to tell your wife how much you appreciate that she’s trying to pick out a pretty bra that she thinks you’ll find sexy. Follow that with a reassuring embrace in which you don’t try to unhook anything while you declare how much respect you have for her and the strong woman she is who endures bra shopping, let alone having to wear one of those contraptions everyday!!!".

Alright, so I didn’t say it out loud...

What a week...

2009-12-12T19:29:00.003-06:00

It began with the death of the grandmother of my one of my dearest friends, Christy.

Then my friend and co-worker very unexpectedly lost her husband (who was only in his early 40’s) on Wednesday.

And today the father of one of my Loucon friend’s passed away after spending the last month+ in the hospital.

I really have nothing wise or insightful to say about all of this. Just that it feels like it’s been a crappy week and I hate the idea of my friends hurting. But I am glad to know that they are all Christ Followers who will look to God to see them through…

And Then One Kid Ruins It For the Whole Class...

2009-12-11T12:07:00.005-06:00

I hate to make things more difficult for everyone else, but I’m going to have to turn word verification for comments back on. This will require my readers to take an extra step if they’d like to leave a comment on this blog. I hate to make things more tricky for y’all and interrupt the conversation. However, the Spammers have been hitting my blog hard lately and ruining it for everyone else. I can’t keep up with deleting the spam. And I don’t want to leave it sitting there because – as I’ve discovered – I may not be able to read kanji…but I still recognize Asian p 0 r n when I click on it.

When leaving a comment you’ll be asked to type in a random word/set of words (that will likely look nonsensical) into a box below your comment, but above your name or sign-in. Just type that "word" in as printed and you should be done. This deters automated spamming programs which troll around the internet looking for unsuspecting knitting/IndyCar/makeup loving prey.

As the World Comes to a Screeching Halt

2009-12-09T00:04:00.002-06:00

The writing has been on the wall. The Soap Opera is a dying species. When, after 57 years, Guiding Light came to an end earlier this year I knew, eventually, the same could happen to My Show. Eventually. I really thought others would go before it. Well before it. Boy was I wrong. CBS announced today that they are cancelling As The World Turns. The soap opera I have watched (with my grandmother and my mother) nearly my entire life will come to an end, after 54 years, in September, 2010.

It feels kind of like I got bad news about an old friend today.

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Things You Want, but Wouldn’t Buy for Yourself

2009-12-08T22:47:00.005-06:00

10 things I want but probably wouldn't buy for myself

1. A Flip camera

2. A Nintendo DS

3. Diamond stud earrings

4. House of Harlow 1960 Necklace

5. A Tiffany & Co. key necklace

6. The entire stock of Sephora...

7. ...and MAC Pro.

8. A super fancy ghd or Chi flat iron

9. A suite at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

10. An engagment ring

Play along with Ten on Tuesday

iMix Playlist: A warm Heart in a chilly December

2009-12-07T23:08:00.003-06:00

Here are some songs I've been listening to lately.

my left eye

2009-12-01T19:02:00.001-06:00

I’ve had a migraine for the last few days. I think it faintly began sometime over the weekend after several nights of inadequte sleep. It didn’t become terrible until late yesterday morning while I was at work. Early in the day I began to recognize that familiar smoldering, prodding feeling behind my left eye and took a Midrin. As the morning went on I started to feel nauseated. My boss took one look at me and called me “gloomy”. The people who know me well know I wear a migraine/headache as an expression on my face. My mom can easily spot something different in my eyes. After the pukey feeling began I realized I was closing my left eye. When I wanted to close both eyes I knew it was time to cry uncle and go home.I got in bed in a dark bedroom and napped and watched TV for most of the day. Sometimes I think I’d feel so much better if I actually would throw-up. But it doesn’t come easily to me. After hours of feeling nauseated I gave in and took “the big gun” – Phenegran. That stuff does the job, but I hesitate to take it because it often makes me feel so groggy the next day. That’s on top of the “migraine hangover” I always experience. I went to sleep pretty easily after that and slept well throughout the night.

This morning I felt groggy and hung-over. I thought the migraine may be gone. But I realized I still had that prodding feeling behind my left eye. Before the end of the day I was closing my left eye, feeling nauseated, and was ready to head back into a dark bedroom.

I recently found this drawing called “The Cluster Headache”. It inspired me to create my own art that represents how I feel when I have a migraine. I remember once reading that many well known artists – of various mediums – have suffered from migraines. And those migraines have led to some of their better known works. Maybe there is a little something to that...because this is one of my more detailed blog posts in awhile...

tanksgibing.

2009-11-28T17:47:00.001-06:00

e r a

2009-11-22T23:36:00.002-06:00

I’ve missed my blog just a little bit the las t few days. But just a little bit. Enough to feel like I wanted to come here and say something. I’m not sure what, though.

Hmmmm. Let's try this...

I’ve been reminded, lately, of how good a decision it was for me to move home to Bowling Green a few years ago. Sometimes it’s hard having one life in two cities. But you do what you have to do. Beyond being able to have some high quality time with my incredible parents and being back at my home church, I’ve made some really wonderful new friendships that have enriched my life immensely = Laura + Misty + Louis.

They’ve become part of my journey. I’ve been learning some really big, important things lately. God is teaching me. I feel myself changing as I’m walking my road. And these friends are often lampposts lighting my path. Other times they are like reflectors casting light back at me…showing me I already have the answer or affirming that I’m still heading in the right direction. Some days I end up in a dark tunnel. And they’ll shout out to remind me that I’m not alone. Or they’ll let me follow their voices as I find my out of the dark.

The Dangerous Wonder Era
The Dangerous Wonder Era is sort of like the Mesozoic Era in that it….oh nevermind. I have no idea that I’m talking about. But really…Several years ago I read the Mike Yaconelli book “Dangerous Wonder”. I was profoundly changed by that book. It intensely changed the way I see myself. I think that book gave me clearer vision to see myself the way God does. And it freed me a little more. I felt freer to be myself. Which is all I am called to be.

The Value City Era
One of the more traumatic experiences in my life was the time I got separated from my mother in a Value City store in Louisville. I wandered around the aisles for what was probably five minutes, though it felt like seven months, until I was in tears. Then a kindly, young motherly type came across me and told me she’d help me find my mommy. And she did. If you ever go shopping with me and you detect a look of panic on my face or in my body language if you suggest we “split up”…please understand. If you round the corner of an aisle without me and we get separated, please, just stand still. Call out the words “Value City!” and let me follow your voice. I will find you.

Well, that really had nothing to do with this next part (or does it?). I just wanted to reference Value City…Because I’m currently in the Value Era. I am learning (knowing) in new ways that my value comes from God. No person gives me my value. And no person can take my value away.

That knowledge is being woven into the fabric of who I am…

It is a great way to live.

As I see own self through this lens I’m able to see the God given value of others more easily.

This is a great way to love.

2009-10-26T15:13:00.002-05:00

G-O-D & d-o-g

2009-10-17T17:11:00.003-05:00

My cousin, Katrina, posted this on my Facebook wall on my birthday.

I look up and I see God. I look down and see my dog.

Simple spelling...G O D. Same word backwards...D O G.

They would stay with me all day. I'm the one who walks away.

But both of them just wait for me. And dance at my return with glee

thanks to everyone who made my brithday so great today

2009-10-15T21:18:00.000-05:00

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite current athletes

2009-09-29T21:57:00.003-05:00

Several years ago a director I worked with would start telling me some sports story when he'd notice a glazed over look on my face and would say, "Oh Jennifer, I forgot. You're not a jock." It's true. I am not a jock. I like college basketball. And I love IndyCar racing. The end. And over the last few basketball seasons I’ve barely paid attention – not even to my beloved Louisville Cardinals. Regrettfully, I can’t, in good concience, put a single Cardinal, Wildcat, or Hilltopper b-ball player on my list. I kind of want to put Steve Nash on my list, but honestly, I don’t really know anything about him. I just think I would like him…if I knew anything about him. Maybe I’d list maybe Phil Mickelson. But only because my dad follows golf so closely. And he’d want me to mention Bluegrass Boys, Kenny Perry and J.B. Holmes. So, I guess I’ll have to list 10 current IndyCar Series drivers - most of which have probably already ended up on some Top Ten list of mine on Dog Yarn Knit. There is one exception, Scott Sharp, who does not have a full-time ride in the IRL, but is driving in the American La Mans Series (for now…?).1. Helio Castroneves
2. Ed Carpenter
3. Sarah Fisher
4. Vitor Meira
5. Tony Kanaan
6. Graham Rahal
7. Ryan Hunter-Reay or...maybe Rafa Matos. I can't make up my mind.
8. Will Power
9. Justin Wilson
10. Scott Sharp

You can play along! Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

sometimes i feel very sad

2009-09-19T22:00:00.005-05:00

This is one of my favorite Brian Wilson songs. Ever. In the history of ever. I would even say it's in my top 3 (...God Only Knows also being on that lists...and I'll have to think about #3...).

wasnt made for these times

Sometimes I feel very sad
I guess I just wasnt made for these times

the riveters

2009-09-15T23:52:00.002-05:00

On Sunday I was trying out a retro pin-up/Marilyn Monroe makeup look (winged liner, red lips). I also wanted to try a pin-up/Rosie the Riveter/Bandanna/50's Housewife hairstyle after watching a tutorial by Kandee the Makeup Artist. I pulled the whole look together and decided...I really like it! And I put on a little Rosie Jo the Riveter Show for my parents. ha.

Today my mom came across this picture of my grandmother rocking a similar look!!!

That's Grandma and my mom (and a dog who was probably named Lady...because that's what all of Mom's dogs were named...)at Aunt Myra's house in the early-mid 1950's.

Esther Pennyrile

2009-09-13T22:20:00.001-05:00

While I'm trying out some ideas for my new webiste and blogging formats I will be moving my beauty blogging to EstherPennyrile.

ask me how much i love hope in a jar

2009-09-12T22:10:00.001-05:00

I opened this 0.5 oz container of Philosophy’s Hope In a Jar on Friday, August 21st. And I emptied it tonight, just three weeks later. I have to say, I L – O – V – E it! I love how it feels on my skin both under makeup and alone. I believe it has improved my skin's texture and appearance. Not to mention, and this is very important, it has not made me breakout! I’ve had a difficult time finding a moisturizer that actually does the job a moisturizer is supposed to do that doesn’t also make me breakout. I’m heading to Sephora or Cosmetic Market on Monday for more. This time a 2 oz. jar!

to thine own self be kind

2009-09-12T16:31:00.004-05:00

Through all of my back problems and migraines, one of the things that I have had to learn to do for myself is how to rest. If I allow myself to rest I have more energy and stamina to live life. To work, to do things with friends, to be part of my church family, to go to IndyCar races and family gatherings. And you know what? I don't apologize for it anymore - not to others or to myself. It is easy to beat yourself up and call yourself lazy and put pressure on yourself to do, do, do, and go, go, go. Sometimes you need to just be. I think in the past year I have gotten to a more peaceful place with myself where I have decided to listen to my body and be easier on myself. If some things in my life don't get done ... OH WELL.

This means my bed and I have a wonderful relationship. When I'm in/on my bed I'm not always sleeping. Sometimes I'm just laying on my side, knees bent, low back arched, slightly propped against some pillows watching TV. Other times I lay on my back on top of an ice pack with me knees bent - watching TV, reading, or doing something on my laptop. I let my muscles relax, spread out, and chill.

It feels SO good to have taken the pressure off of myself. I don't know about you, but I am my toughest critic. While, yes, it is important to hold ourselves to standards and not shirk responsibility, it is a good thing to be kind to oneself. Stock the bedside table with a big glass of water, a favorite lip balm, a TV remote. Keep good books, magazines, a journal and a favorite pencil or pen within reach. Load up the bed with fantastic pillows, linens, and blankets...then tell your muscles to let go. Be kind to your mind, body, and soul.

urban decay book of shadows, volume deux...you put your weed in there?

2009-09-10T22:21:00.001-05:00

Beatles fans have had their fun with the 09.09.09 release of The Beatles Anthology. I will admit that it took me until late last night for it to dawn on me why a Wednesday was chosen for the release date (“Number 9, number 9, number 9…”). Now, this may not be exactly on par as far as historic pop culture moments. But makeup lovers are joyful over the recently released Urban Decay Book of Shadows, Vol II now available at http://www.urbandecay.com/.

There were some complaints (and by “some” I mean “a lot") about the packaging of the original Book of Shadows. While the die cut pop-ups and fairytale notion were cute, the eyeshadow “drawer” was difficult to pull out. I think most makeup nerd’s, especially those fond of Urban Decay’s unique and richly pigmented shadows, overlooked the design flaw in favor of the value of receiving 16 shadows (plus two brushes, a travel size Primer Potion and a full sized mirror) for $45.

(click photos to enlarge)

I have yet to see Vol. 2 in person, but the reviews I’ve come across say the design is still not ideal, but better.

[Visit MakeupGeek.com for reviews, swatches, + a tutorial of Book of Shadows Vol. I + Vol. II.]

Book of Shadows Volume II contains 16 shadows (eight exclusive shades, eight existing shades, with Perversion being the only repeat), two 24/7 Glide On eye pencils (0.03 US oz) in Bourbon (brown with gold micro-shimmer) and Zero (black-black), a travel size Primer Potion, a full-sized mirror, and a Look Book to draw inspiration from for $48.00.

Exclusive shades:
AC/DC (deep eggplant shimmer)
Nylon (champagne sparkler)
Mushroom (taupey-gunmetal)
Sphynx (pink sparkle/shimmer)
Jinx (bright blue shimmer)
Homegrown (bright green shimmer)
Misdemeanor (deep teal sparkle)
Perversion (matte black)

Existing shades:
Sellout (pink champagne shimmer)
Gunmetal (gunmetal gray w/ silver glitter)
Ecstasy (bright purple w/ slight pink tint)
Midnight Cowboy Rides Again (golden beige w/ bronze, gold & silver glitter)
Twice Baked (brownie brown w/ gold glitter)
Half Baked (subtle, lustrous bronze)
Flipside (electric teal w/ blue sheen)
YDK (mocha w/ golden microglitter)

I do have two areas of concern that give me pause before running out to buy this set.

Area of Concern #1

Unfortunately for me the UD Get Baked set I purchased earlier this year contained a Bourbon pencil and three of the shadows in Book of Shadows II – Half Baked, Twice Baked, and Flipside. But they are all great colors that I get a lot of use out of.

Area of Concern #2

I’ve always thought that Urban Decay had some really witty colors names (a shimmery white called Polyester Bride; a medium brown called Stray Dog). But a few give me pause. To mention just a few: Roach, Mary Jane, Half Baked, Homegrown, Chronic, Stash. Do you see a possible theme here?

Some people may laugh at me for this. But being a girl who prides herself for being high on life and having someone dear to me with substance abuse issues I may be more sensitive than others. Please humor me. I am bothered by the apparent references to marijuana as well as other illegal drugs. I’m not saying that I think Wende Zomnir and Sandy Lerner are using their fantastic makeup brand as a front while they hustle joints and dime bags in the back parking lot at the Urban Decay warehouse. But these names do give me pause. I have to ask myself if this is significant enough for me to stop purchasing the brand. Or will I wait and see if they include rolling papers in Book of Shadows, III?

a few labor day makeup/beauty treats

2009-09-06T22:25:00.003-05:00

SMASHBOX

Get a FREE Overexposure Lipstick Pencil with any $65 purchase.

Enter code AFTRHRS at checkout.

Expires: September 8

Click here for more info.

PHILOSOPHY

Free Shipping all weekend long. No minimum purchase.

Enter promo code LABORDAY at checkout.

Expires: September 7

Click here for more info.

MAC

Free shipping on all purchases

Expires: 11:59 pm EST Monday, September 7

Click here for more info.

LAURA GELLAR

Receive a free full-size blush with a purchase of $70 or more (while supplies last).

Enter promo code FABFALL at checkout.

Expires: September 30 at midnight

Click here for more info.

Four Random Things

2009-09-04T23:00:00.001-05:00

Why four? You tell me.

1) I love to chew ice.
2) My dog loves tennis balls.
3) My second toes are just slightly longer than my big toes.
4) I have met this guy.

what may be one of my favorite photos from the 2009 indy car season

2009-09-03T15:49:00.004-05:00

IndyCar Series driver, Nelson Philippe posted this photo of himself with fellow driver and Sonoma accident survivor, Will Power, on his Twitter.

HIS CAPTION: Two crippled guys in Indy... Willy P and Nelly P...

In the accident both drivers suffered concussions. Will Power has two broken lumbar vertebrae and Nelson Philippe's left foot was fractured when the (oh this is painful to even write) brake pedal went into his foot. He also has a broken right leg.

like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land - Proverbs 25: 25

2009-08-31T22:16:00.006-05:00

(Or...Even if you have been banished to the most distant land under the heavens, from there the LORD your God will gather you and bring you back. - Deuteronomy 30:4)

That pretty girl in the blue shirt standing next to me is my cousin. She's about to embark on a new adventure and will be moving far far away. Farther away from our family than she's ever lived. While we've always been within a few hours' drive of one another (like our WHOLE lives) we're both busy gals who don't get to see each other very often as it is. But there is something about knowing she'll be states and states away (I counted four) that I find distressing. I will just have to be proactive about going to visit. All the new places and things to see! I'm already packing my bags in my head and her moving van hasn't even pulled out of her driveway.

I remember when she told me she was going to be moving. We were standing in the Columbia, Kentucky Walmart printing photos of us grandchildren with our granddad to be displayed at the funeral home after he passed away last summer. She told me where she was planing to move to. And right there in the middle of the Columbia Walmart next to the Kodak Picture Maker tears began filling my eyes before I could even process her words.

Despite my tears, I am flat out incredibly proud of her. She is being so bold and following God's call. She knows the cost and the merits of following and trusting Him. Boy, does that take courage sometimes. Like when that call takes you away to foreign lands...four states away from Kentucky.

one month to live - thoughts

2009-08-27T23:56:00.006-05:00

I want to...

make some big funky leather wrists cuffs

go to London

eat French food in Paris
get Derby a new collar

change the way the world looks at plus size women

change the way the world looks at plus size people

figure out why my finger nail polish always chips no matter how much top coat I use

go to my first road/street course Indy Car race

make more time to journal

make more time to sit with God

figure out what I would do if I only had 30 days to live & not take a month to do it

stop putting off so many things until tomorrow.

where there is hope...

2009-08-24T14:58:00.003-05:00

I have not forgotten the promised post on skin care. But I want to put it off for awhile because I’ve added a new product to my skin care regimen and I want to give it more time before I offer a review of the product. I want to be able to always provide to my readers an honest and helpful assessment of products so that you can be informed before spending your hard earned money on something.

So, give me another week or two of using Philosophy’s Hope In a Jar and then I’ll tell you about it and the other products I use in my skin care routine.

sleepy pie derby time

2009-08-20T23:30:00.001-05:00

I love when Derby is all sleepy and relaxed and I catch him with the tippy tip tip of his tonuge pointing out.

He loves Puppy Baby - a gift from Uncle Wayne.

to thine own self...and thy blog readers

2009-08-20T17:54:00.001-05:00

In a few short months my blog will celebrate its 4th birthday. It’s hard to believe so much time has passed since November, 2005. At the same time, it feels like I’ve had this blog most of my adult life. When it’s only been a fraction.

I started this blog with the name “The Randomness of Jennifer Coomer”. I figured that was broad enough. This was after I had begun knitting. I was inspired to begin a blog because of all of the knitting blogs I was reading at the time. And there are a lot of knitting blogs. The cool thing about that is that several of those knitting bloggers have gone on to become published writers. Some of them write about knitting and how it changed their lives or pervades their lives. Some are teaching tools. And others have published patterns they have created.

Eventually, I renamed my blog Dog. Yarn.Knit. I thought it was a catchy name and I was spending most of my free time doing one of two things
1) knitting
2) playing with my new puppy, Derby Pie.

But, the randomness of Jennifer Coomer never went away. I end up all over the place. It seems that no matter how much I try to narrow in and give this blog focus I get all ADD and distracted by something new and shiny.

And really, I like to think of myself as a teacher of sorts. I also like to think of myself as a story teller.

When it comes to teaching on the art of knitting I feel ill-equipped. Sure, I have taught a few people the basics. But I am not a pattern designer. I am a slow knitter. And in the summer…I am barely a knitter at all.

However...

However, I feel like I do have something to share and feel able to teach when it comes to makeup and beauty tips. And I’ve enjoyed exploring that side of myself as a blogger lately.
I can try to focus in and make my blog more marketable. But really…if I’m not enjoying it, I’m not going to do it. So, I’m going to follow my heart and be a little all over the place. And be random. And be okay with that. And, if you’re interested, you’ll follow along.

I do have some exciting plans - a re-working of my blog. A new look, a new format, some categorization…and…a new name. But that’s the only part of the cat – or dog, in my case - that I want to let out of the bag right now. Just a little paw and maybe a glimpse of an ear.

I will say that the new blog format won't be all about makeup. Just like Dog.Yarn.Knit. has not been all about knitting. It'll still be a mixture of IndyCar racing, knitting, beauty products/tips, and thoughts on Faith. Basically...my randomness.

I do appreciate your feedback. Readers’ comments left on a blog are always a very encouraging thing to a blogger. Even if it’s just a, “Hi, I read this” it is a welcome thing. It lets me know you’re out there. It lets me know when I’m on the right track. It lets me know you’re listening. It makes us feel connected. I love hearing from you. And I hope you’ll stay tuned and keep in touch.

a new luxury (yet very practical) item on my wish list

2009-08-19T22:12:00.007-05:00

I have become intrigued with Zuca bags! They carry two lines - Pro and Sport - and can be used as luggage, professional cases, artist cases, doggy carriers...

From Zuca Bags

Makeup artists are using the Zuca Pro as train cases for their makeup kits. They are crazy with storage and come with great accessories - some made specifically for the storage and transport of makeup and beauty products. They also have wheels available for purchase that light up! Seriously! They light up! They also sell backpacks, inserts, and other various cases and pouches that can be added to expand the storage capacity.

From Zuca Bags

(Click on that photo above to enlarge it and see the rest of it!)

But the most wonderful part is that these bags are constructed in such a way that they can be sat on! Yes! You can sit on them!
And I want one! In pink! (of course)

ten on tuesday: 10 beauty products on my wish list

2009-08-18T20:12:00.013-05:00

Keeping with the fun and different theme for Ten on Tuesday (I've just not been feeling the official Ten on Tuesday topics lately) . . . Here are 10 beauty products that are on my wish list.

1) Philosophy's new fragrance Unconditional Love

Unconditional Love is the little sister to another favorite Philosophy's fragrance of mine - Falling In Love. The first time I smelled it I wanted to just pull the top off that bottle and drink it. I sprayed a bit on my arm and then couldn't stop sniffing at my wrist for the rest of the day! It has a creamy smooth sweetness blended with soft florals and an overall warmth. Love it.

2) Stila eye kajal liner in Topaz and in Onyx

Topaz is an apricot/flesh color that can be used to line the water line (that lower inner eye rim) and make the eye look more open. Eye kajals or kohls are a traditional eye liner used predominately in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Africa (and I'll tell you more about them later....).3) NARS lipstick in Belle de Jour and Fast Ride

I love wearing soft pale lips in nudes and pinks. Nars Belle de Jour is a favored nude lipstick that's been on my wish list for some time. And Fast Ride is a sheer deep berry shade similar to Clinque's popular Black Cherry.4) MAC eye shadows in Brule, Quarry, Satin Taupe, and Concrete

Ask any makeup lover, you can never have enough MAC eye shadows. These are just four on my MAC want list. I'm really looking forward to getting Satin Taupe, especially.5) Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage concealer duo in SC-1 (for very fair skin)

For about a year now I've been using a Make Up For Ever concealer palette that I've really liked. But I've been hearing good things about this Laura Mercier concealer set. So, I want to give it a try. Actually, I hear a lot of very good things about all of Laura Mercier's products. BEAUTY TIP: It's always good to have more than one shade of concealer for shading, contouring, and blending.

6) NARS Highlight Blush and Bronzer duo in Orgasm blush and Laguna bronzer

Orgasm (yep) is Nars most popular blush shade. It's a great (nearly) universally flattering shade. The Laguna bronzer can be used for shading and contouring.

7) Laura Geller Lip Spackle

Lip Spackle is a special concealer/primer made specifically for the lips. It evens out the lip line, helps prevent feathering, and blanks out the natural coloring of the lips so that lipstick shades look more true.8) Sephora by OPI nail polish in Dark Room

I love dark cream polishes on short nails. This color is interesting and different from other shades in my current polish palette.

9) Benefit Dandelion pink face powder

A ballerina pink cheek powder to be used as a blush or all over complexion perk-up finishing powder.10) Make Up For Ever High Definition Powder OR Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder

I'm still doing some research on these finishing powders. But I think I'm leanings towards the MUFE - HD powder. Unlike like many other loose finishing powders, both of these are designed to not settle into fine lines. They both claim to create a smooth finish while setting makeup.

Urban Decay 30% off Friends and Family Event

2009-08-14T20:56:00.004-05:00

Urban Decay Friends & Family Event

Get 30% OFF your entire order at www.urbandecay.com

NOW until 8/20/09

Use code: FNFF1 at checkout to redeem offer

10 beauty products i love

2009-08-12T23:17:00.008-05:00

Just to try something fun and different I'm going to do my own Ten on Tuesday list. It's now Wednesday. But who cares? Meaningless details. Let's just focus on this list of 10 random beauty products that I love.

1) Laura Geller Lip Strip, $16.00
Cooling Sugar Scrub - lip exfoliator. This stuff is so fun! It tastes great and feels cooling and tingly. It exfoliates your lips and gets rid of any flaky stuff. It makes your pout look smooth and makes lipstick go on like butter.

2) Pointed Cotton Swabs, under $4.00 at most drug stores
For makeup application/correction. Not for inner ear use! These things are way too pointy for that business. I love using these for more percise work than your normal Q-tip can handle. They are great for cleaning up the inner eye area or removing stray nail polish from a cuticle. 3) L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray, $15.00 at Target
I use Extra Strong Hold/UV Filter for Color Treated Hair and just love this hairspray. It's got great hold. But doesn't make your hair sticky, webby, or stiff. The scent is not my favorite. But its worth getting past the fragrance. 4) Smith's Rosebud Salve , $5.99
This is my favorite bedtime lip balm. A tin of this stuff lasts for-ev-eerrrrr. It comes in several flavors that are all very yummy. My favorite current favorite is Brambleberry Rose.5) Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleaner, $8-$10 for 16 0z.
The classic, dermatologist recommended, gentle cleanser. I use this product every day. It's gentle enough to use around my eyes to remove sleepiness or makeup. It doesn't dry my skin and I can use it morning, noon, and/or night.
6) Tweezerman Tweezers, $14.99
The best tweezers ever. I’ve had the same pink pair of classic tweezers for at least eight years. They have never lost their spring or points. No other tweezers compare. I like the slanted version. But they also come in a longer pointed version that some prefer. If I were to ever lose these pink tweezers I might die. 7) OPI nail color in You Don’t Know Jacques, $7.00
I heart this warm dusty taupey grey from the France Fall/Winter 2009 collection. I like several other colors from the series. But You Don't Know Jacques may just be my favorite OPI color ever. Ever ever.8) Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Eye Pencil, $16.00
These creamy waterproof eye liners are my favorite pencil liners. The color pay off is always spectacular. I routinely use Zero (black), Bourbon (a shimmery brown), and Flipside (a fun kind of metallic teal). Just like the name says, these pencils glide on. They stay-put. But right after application can be smudged or blended nicely. I love adding a bit of the teal Flipside liner just along the lashline with some neutral shadows for a fun burst of color.
9) L’Oreal Extra Volume Collagen mascara in blackest black, $6.50
For years my favorite has been L'Oreal Voluminous. But recently I may have been converted. I'll give more time to this product in another post designated solely to mascaras. 10) Water! Prices may vary.
It's good for your insides and outsides. Water can moisturize your skin from the inside out. And contribute to skins renewal and elasticity. It'll also make you feel great! If you're feeling sluggish ask yourself, "how much water have I had today?"...and go fill up a glass!

AND A BONUS BEAUTY TIP!
Nothing beats a smile, a cheerful disposition, and kindness.

The photos used in this post are orginal property of the author. Or orginated from the websites of the brands listed above. Some have been altered slightly or have been combined with other photos for use by the owner of this blog.

hey you! yeah, you. vote!

2009-08-12T20:54:00.003-05:00

There was a tie in the previous poll on which makeup and beauty topic you'd like to see covered. Please vote in the tie-breaker poll by visiting the sidebar to the right.

You're choices are:

* My favorite mascaras
* My favorite skin care products

One vote per person. Go vote!

lovekissfinger*tips

2009-08-10T22:37:00.005-05:00

I came across this picture tonight (here) during a random Google images search and wanted to share it with you all. What would my day be like if I woke-up tomorrow and decided to live as if love was shooting out of my fingertips?

one month to live super series

2009-08-10T20:12:00.005-05:00

"...we can live deliberately, no longer postponing the joy and peace that comes from fulfilling our God-Given destiny." - Pastor Kerry and Chris Shook

If you enjoyed the movie "The Bucket List", have made your own "100 Things To Do Before I Turn...", or benefited from Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life, join us at Broadway United Methodist Church for a new super series, "One Month to Live".

Sunday Message Series -- August 23-September 20

Wednesdays @ Broadway-- August 26-September 16

We'll be following along in the book by Kerry and Chris Shook, One Life to Live. This book has been featured on the CBS Morning Show after the entire town of Clinton, OK asked themselves every day, “How would I live today if I had one month to live?” and then set-out to live their day in response to the question.

The Sunday morning sermons will also be available for download on BroadwayUnited.org or iTunes. Find more information and resources at OneMonthToLive.com.

UPDATE: Johnny G. pointed out that I wrote "One Life to Live" above...like the name of the Soap Opera. I was afraid of doing that. I kept almost writing it several times. I remember once watching an episode of One Life to Live in a doctor's office years ago. This woman was trying to slow her breathing so she was near death and could go into the spirit world to talk to someone who had died and bring them back. I thought that was ironic for a show called One Life to Live.

By-the-way, the name of the book IS One Month To Live.

happy 40th anniversary mom and dad!

2009-08-09T15:01:00.001-05:00

(click photo to enlarge)

hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair

2009-08-03T23:14:00.002-05:00

Derby spent the day at the groomer today getting a much needed hair. His hair stylist had been out for a while following hip surgery...and then catching up on all those other doggies who needed summer cuts. Derby's bangs, beard, and weird mustache thing that grows out next to his snout made him look like some kind of chocolate sheep dog with a Fu Manchu.

I have not had a haircut since mid-May - maybe around the week I left for the Indy 500. The main reason I've yet to schedule an appointment for a haircut is that I just don't know what I want to do! Grow it longer? Keep my 1920's bob (that by now has lost all style)? Grow my bangs out? Shave my head? I don't know! I don't know! I don't know!

Maybe I should have a contest and let y'all find me a new hairdo.

dear indy race league, where can i get one of those push to pass buttons for my honda crv?

2009-08-02T23:17:00.008-05:00

Believe it or not last night was the first time this Bluegrass Girl and avid IndyCar Series fan visited the Kentucky Speedway. I’ve attended nearly fifteen IndyCar races – but only at The Track (Indianpolis Motor Speedway) and at the Nashville Super Speedway. For many years the Kentucky race always fell on the same weekend at the New Song festival at my beloved Camp Loucon. And even after moving from Nashville to Bowling Green the Nashville race was still closer.

But with the Nashville race off the ICS schedule (for?) now (probably not for now, probably for permanent), 2009 was the year for my inaugural Kentucky race.It was a night for another first; my very first race without my racing Yoda, Johnny G. And I must say, the student has become the master. I took my mom and my friend, Laura, with me. And I was the veteran. I was in charge of leading the way. When we first approached the gate to head to the Will Call window for our tickets I had a little freak-out moment. “Oh no, what am I doing here? I don’t know how to do this! I need John.” But then I remembered it was not my first time to the rodeo. It was not even my tenth. I took a deep breath and said to myself, “I have been in the IndyCar Series longer than half of the drivers in the league. I know exactly how to do this.” And we walked through the security line and decided as a group we would do this our own way. We went a little Anti-Johnny G. We came to the track without a clipboard full of paper for lap statistics. We brought no extra batteries. Among us we only had one Sharpie. We had no radio. And we didn’t even rent a Track Scanner. We went a little commando, if you will. We even forgot to take a picture of ourselves at the track. Something Yoda John never would have done.The Kentucky Speedway is in a gorgeous part of my beloved home Commonwealth (But really, is there any part that isn’t gorgeous? Don’t answer that.). It’s in a hilly/mountainous area along the Ohio River about half-way between Louisville and Cincinnati. The scenery around the track is breathtaking. The facilities are really nice. The people were friendly.Throughout the race I’d look around the stands and try to decide if the crowd at the Kentucky Speedway is more or less NASCAR-ish than the Nashville Super Speedway. And I think I’d call it a draw. Especially considering that “That Guy” (NASCAR Man the TK Fan) whose favorite IndyCar driver is Tony Kanaan was, as always, sitting right in front of me. (See Jeff’s My Name Is IRL post on my "NASCAR Man the TK Fan" theory).

“That Guy”, sitting right in front of us, seemed 47 sheets to the wind when we got to our seats in Stand 4. Tellingly, we didn’t actually see “That Guy” with anything alcoholic until about 40 laps from the end. So, “That Guy” must have started at breakfast. The only people that seemed a little more annoyed with "That Guy" being the only man standing in a 30 row vicinity at throughout the race, taking photos of who-knows-what with his camera phone, and pointing across the track any time anyone pitted were, sadly, his wife (common-law or otherwise), and his two daughters.

Johnny G. and I like to play this game when we go to the track that I guess you could call “Siblings of Celebrities”. It’s simple really; find someone in the crowd who looks like a famous person. Take a photo of them. And give them a name. Sitting two rows in front of us last night was Dave’s brother, Ed Letterman.

This season there have been a lot of complaints from fans, and even drivers, about the lack of passing and side-by-side racing on ovals. Thankfully, the League chose to make some changes that would change the aerodynamics of the cars and also bring back the “Push to Pass” feature from seasons past – something the former CHAMP Car drivers were accumosted to from their turbo charged engines. Everyone is calling this new feature “Push to Pass”. But I think it’s official name is the Honda Overtake Button. A driver is able to push a button on their dash that…does…uh…something to the fuel mixture that gives the car a burst of speed for 12 seconds. Or something like that. After those 12 seconds the feature won’t do anything for 10 seconds. And each car has 20 “Honda Overtakes” pushes per race. At least I hope I’m explaining this correctly…

All I know is that IT WORKED! We had side-to-side racing and lots of passing last night! What a race. I have to say, it was one of my favorite races I have seen in person. The only other race I can remember being more exciting was 2005’s Indy 500 (the year Danica Patrick became the first female to lead a lap at Indy and Sam Hornish, Jr. passed Marco Andretti in the last turn for the win.)

But the best part was that Ed Carpenter nearly got his first win! Nearly being 0.0162 seconds!!! I have long been a Carpenter fan. He’s one of those guys that often has good, solid races with Top 10 finishes. His best finish has been fifth, which he’s done at three races. He and his team, Vision Racing, have yet to win a race. If Ed had won it would have been huge. As Barney from “How I Met Your Mother” would say, “Legend – wait for it – dary!” Early on in the race I noticed Ed was fast. He started in P14 and passing cars all over the place. That yellow Menard’s car definitely caught my eye and kept my attention. Before I knew it, he was up in fourth, then third, and then swapping between second and first. Watching him felt reminiscent of watching Sam Hornish, Jr. during his Panther Racing days. By the end, I was hoarse from yelling his name in the last 20 laps. He really almost won that thing! And the people in the stands were trying to help him cross the line first. But, alas, Ryan Briscoe won another one…But as “That Guy” slurred me to as he stumbled out of his row, “You can’t get any better than a photo finish”.

All photos taken by me unless otherwise noted.

pardon the interruption

2009-08-02T16:00:00.003-05:00

Later today I'm going to break from my blogbbatical to tell you about my trip to the Kentucky Speedway for the IndyCar Series race. We had a great great time and it was a very exciting race. One of THE best I have seen in person. Today I'm resting up from the trip and all the excitement and all of those hours in a the car. Check back for more!

okay, let's try this again.

2009-07-23T22:05:00.000-05:00

and then inspiration + timing strike

2009-07-22T10:36:00.002-05:00

Many times in my life I have found myself in a place of unrest. A place of discomfort.
It comes with a particular feeling. A particular sense.
It has become familiar.

In those times I feel a certain tug on my heart.
I hear a faint Whisper.
It tells me to keep my eyes open.
Keep my ears open.
Keep my heart open.

It tells me to be patient.
It tells me to trust.
It tells me to be obedient.

If I ignore it the uneasiness becomes a hurtful unrest.
It will be turned over to the mundane.

If I look up...
If I listen...
If I knock...

The answer comes.
The compass points.
Things do not come easy.
But they make sense.
They do not lay perfectly in place like puzzle pieces.
But they fall upon one another like stair steps.
Carrying me where I am meant to be.

-Jennifer Coomer, July 23 2009

summer recess

2009-07-21T22:15:00.003-05:00

Time for a little break. Have a great summer. See you soon.

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite songs of the 1980's

2009-07-14T22:26:00.002-05:00

This is a quick list in no particular order. I'm going with the first ten that come to mind and leaving off Amy Grant (just to make things easier for me).

1. Melt With You – Modern English
2. You Are the Everything – REM
3. Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – U2
4. Mickey – Toni Basil
5. 99 Luft Balloons – Nena
6. When the Doves Cry – Prince
7. Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper
8. Jesse’s Girl – Rick Springfield
9. Heart and Soul – T’Pau
10. The Warrior - Scandal

Wanna play along? Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

forever a 5th grader. and I don’t care.

2009-07-13T20:38:00.001-05:00

betty white + bruce willis

2009-07-12T21:14:00.006-05:00

Tonight my friend, Laura, and I went to see the Sandra Bullock/Ryan Reynolds romantic comedy, The Proposal. It was actually a pretty good movie. Even though you can see what's coming from 47 football fields away. For me, two of the best parts of this movie were the gorgeous Alaskan landscape and the hilarious Betty White. All through the movie I was dying to know what lipstick Sandra Bullock was wearing. It was some creamy light pink without a lot of shine ... but not overly matte.

The pre-Proposal trailers included this upcoming Bruce Willis movie, Surrogates, which releases September 25. Looks to be very Minority Report/Gattica/Brave New World.

polly esther: everyday smoky eye (an lightly detailed tutorial of sorts)

2009-07-08T20:58:00.005-05:00

I set out to make a video tutorial the other day. But about seven minutes in my camera cut off. When I watched back what did record I was really unhappy with the lighting and how everything showed up on camera. I think it just may not be the time to take on the video tutorial endeavor.

But, I really wanted to complete some kind of tutorial for my friend, Misty, who requested a quick, everyday, very wearable smoky eye look.The smoky eye has really grown in popularity. Yet, it can seem a bit intimidating or even overly dramatic. But, it can actually be quite easy and wearable. It’s one of my favorite looks. A smoky eye is not so much about color as it is application. You can have a purple smoky eye or a blue or brown smoky eye. Smoky eyes don’t come in black alone! There are several variations on the smoky eye. But the one I will outline here is one of my favorites – especially for my eye shape. I find it to be pretty quick and therefore a great every day, go-to look.If you find that smoky looks you’ve tried before seem too dramatic when you look in the mirror I think you might be fond of this version. Try some hazy shades of purple or gray. You’ll need two to three shades in the same color family and a neutral highlighting/blending shade similar to your skin tone. In this example I used grays and silvers.1) Apply an eye shadow primer all over your lid and up to your brow. Make sure to add some primer to the corners and a little below the lower lash line.
2) (Hot pink line in photo above) Take your darkest shade of gray and apply it very close to your lash line with a liner or shader brush in a fairly thick line. Don’t worry about being too precise. You’re going to blend as you go.
3) Using a fluffy dome or blending brush apply a small, light amount of the darkest color along the line your applied in Step 2. Feather this color along your lid. But be sure NOT to go above the crease with this color. Blend and feather this color until your lid is covered while leaving the darkest portion along your lashline.
4) (Green line in photo) Using your medium gray shadow blend, in a windshield wiper motion, along your lid just below and into your crease, concentrating the most color in the outer corner of the eye.
5) (White line in photo) Just above the crease blend in your lightest shade of grey, again, in a windshield wiper motion while concentrating the most color in the outer corner of the eye.
6) With a small or pointy crease or liner brush apply the medium gray along your lower lash line stopping about half-way or around the point of your lash line where your lashes begin to thin. Make sure to join this color in the outer corner to the color on your upper lid.
7) (Yellow line in photo) Then apply a neutral toned shadow under the highest point of your eyebrow’s arch and blend out.
8) To brighten the inner corner of your add your neutral tone with a small pointed brush around the tear duct. And join this color under the lower lash line to the medium gray.
9) Using a very pointed pencil liner or a good gel liner with an angled liner brush apply a thin line of black liner very close to the upper lash line.
10) Curl lashes and apply mascara!

EYE PRODUCTS USED
· Urban Decay Primer Potion
· MAC eye shadow in Soot (darkest shade – indicated by the pink line in photo)
· MAC eye shadow in Knight Divine (medium, silvery gray – indicated by green lines in photo and used under lower lash line)
· Bare Escentuals glimmer in Marquise (light silver gray – indicated by white lines in photo)
· MAC eye shadow in Vanilla (skin toned, neutral – indicated by yellow line and used to blend lightest grey and in inner corner of eye and under inner portion of lower lash line)
· MAC Fluidline gel liner in Blacktrack
· Dior Show mascara in black

Optional: if you have smaller eyes and feel like your eyes need something to open them up and make you look wider eyed you can use a white or flesh toned liner to line your water line. But do so carefully and with a clean, newly sharpened pencil liner. I used a Rimmel kohl liner in Pure White and smudged it lightly and very carefully with a CLEAN small liner brush. I smudge this white liner so that it is not so stark white. I've heard great things about Stila Kajal eye liner in the nudge color Topaz .

LIP PRODUCTS USED
· MAC liner in Subculture
· MAC lipstick in Myth
· NARS lipgloss in Turkish Delight

When I wear a darker or a smokier eye I like to wear a light lip to keep the look in balance and keep the attention on the eye.

FACE
· Make Up For Ever 5 Camouflage Palette cream concealer No. 1
· Bare Escentuals i.d. Prime Time foundation primer
· Bare Escentuals Bare Mineral foundation in Fair
· Bobbi Brown Taupe (for contouring)
· Bare Esentuals Mineral Veil
· MAC sheer tone blush in Dollymix

BRUSHES & TOOLS I USED FOR EYES
· Sonia Kashuk small blending brush
· MAC 222 tapered blending brush
· MAC 219 pencil brush
· Sonia Kashuk small flat shader brush
· Sonia Kashuk fluffy blending brush
· Bare Escentuals full tapered shadow brush
· Sonia Kashuk bent liner brush
· Shu Uemera lash curler

If you're looking for a line of budget friendly brushes to invest in I recommend the Sonia Kashuk line that can be found at Target. Another affordable alternative is the CVS line Essence of Beauty.

Try a smoky eye look soon and let me know what you think! If you have more questions or who like to make a request for another tutorial please leave a comment.

2009-07-04T20:51:00.000-05:00

book give away

2009-07-01T09:30:00.003-05:00

I am going to be giving away copies of Glenn Beck's latest best seller Common Sense: The Case Against and Out of Control Government, Inspired by Thomas Paine. Beck was inspired by Thomas Paine's 1776 pamphet, Common Sense.

I'm going to place one condition on this give-away. After you've read this book write your name and the date in the front cover and hand it off to someone else to read. Ask them to do the same. To enter leave a comment on this blog post.

If you believe it's time to put principles above parties, character above campaign promises, and Common Sense above all -- then I ask you to read this book...." Nearly two and a half centuries after Thomas Paine's masterpiece changed America forever, Glenn Beck revisits it with one purpose: to galvanize Americans to see past government's easy solutions, two-part monopoly, and illogical methods and take back our great country.

Currently #1 on Amazon.com and NY Times Non-Fiction
Currently #2 on BarnesandNoble.com and Borders.com

polly esther: QUICK TIP - brow raising!

2009-06-30T21:44:00.004-05:00

A QUICK TIP!
Did you know thicker eyebrows can give you a more youthful look? You could be partial to a thinner look now. But as you age you may long for thicker brows. Be aware that tweezing and waxing may cause your brow hair to grow thin or not grow back. So, be careful not to go too thin or over pluck or wax!

ten on tuesday: 10 guilty pleasures on tv

2009-06-30T20:05:00.007-05:00

I take “guilty pleasures” to mean something you secretly enjoy and are a little embarrassed to let other people in on. Really, only numbers 1 and two are some of an embarrassment. Most weeks I have a hard time narrowing my lists down to ten. I have to weed out and narrow down. This week I was maybe a little glad to not be able to do a full list of 10! 1. Daisy of Love - Or any variation involving Bret Michaels one of his paramours

2. Charm School

3. The Bachelor/Bachelorette

4. Big Brother

5. I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here
Why did I waste those three weeks on this show? The NBC resurrected version was really just pointless. They seemed to make-up the rules as they went and changed them at whim. Kind of reminds me of Congress.

6. Paranormal State

7. Lifetime movies

Wanna play along? Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

indy 500: tg resigns

2009-06-30T16:03:00.005-05:00

From an Indy Star reporter Curt Cavin article, Tony George resigns as CEO of IMS

Tony George resigned his position as chief executive officer of Hulman & Co. and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. today, but he will remain on the board of the family’s organization.

He will be replaced by Curt Brighton (Hulman & Co.) and Jeff Belskus (IMS Corp.)
George, 49, became president and CEO of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. in January of 1990 after the death of Joe Cloutier.

michael jackson playlist

2009-06-27T18:40:00.002-05:00

Here is my list of 10 most favorite Michael Jackson tunes (non-Jackson 5) in no particular order. And I included a few honorable mentions.

friday candy: michael jackson

2009-06-26T05:03:00.001-05:00

There is no one else I could feature in today's Friday Candy but Michael Jackson. I chose this particular video because I fondly remember all the kids in my class trying to Moon Walk around Roby Elementary school after he debuted it at the Motown 25 concert. I never really mastered the Moon Walk. But I have great memories and their soundtrack.

polly esther: on my makeup guru; eye primers

2009-06-25T22:51:00.011-05:00

In this post:
1) I’ll introduce you to Marlena of MakeUpGeek.com.
2) We’ll continue our conversation about the glory of eye primers. Specifically, how dark primers can provide a fantastic base that will make bright, rich, and/or dark eye shadows really P O P !

First, I want to introduce you to an amazingly talented woman named Marlena. She is my on-line Obi Wan Kenobi of makeup. There are a lot of people out there producing makeup tutorials. But, for my dollar, Marlena is the best. Not only does she make quality videos, she’s a great teacher. When I first stumbled across Marlena I thought I already knew a lot about makeup. But she has really taught me so much more and made me a smarter makeup lover.

In her latest video tutorial, part of a series on complimenting your eye shape, she addresses makeup for larger eyes. I bring it to your attention because, in it she uses a dark eye primer/base (MAC’s Artifact Paint Pot) to make darker shadows (like MAC’s Plum Dressing and Carbon) really come to life.

You can watch Marlena’s video at her website – MakeupGeek.com.

indy car: sweet sweet vitor

2009-06-24T12:15:00.002-05:00

While he recovers from a broken back sustained at Indy Vitor Meira will be doing some video blogging. This is a way to keep the fans updated about his progress and recovery. As a person who had dealt with chronic back pain and problems Vitor provides me some inspiration to try to get back to the things I love to do. All the best to you Vitor!

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite sports plays ever

2009-06-23T07:00:00.004-05:00

1. WKU's Ty Rogers Buzzer Beater in the 2008 NCAA Tourney

2. UK vs. Duke - The Christian Laettner shot heard round the world.
I know some UK fans are going to hate on me for this. But come on, it was an amazing play.

3. Vitor Meria threads the needle - 2008 Indy 500
The first video is the TV broadcast. Second view is from his in-car camera.

4. Tomas Scheckter passes 7 cars in one amazing move at the 2004 Indy 500

5. The 2nd closet finish at Indy - 2006 Sam Hornish, Jr. takes it from Marco Andretti.

6.Mary Lou Retton's gold-medal winning perfect 10.00 vaults at the 1984 Olympics.

7. Greenwood, the high school I graduated from opened in August, 1990. Most of our football players stayed at the high school we split from - Warren Central. So it took some time for our football team to ... well ... score. My senior year - during our second football season - we finally scored our first touchdown during a game against Warren Central. You would have thought we'd won the state championship. GO GATORS!
No video available.

8. The 1973 Kentucky Derby

So, I was in my mother's womb in May, 1973. But this remains my favorite Derby.

9. Calvin Borell takes Street Sense up the rail to win the 2007 Kentucky Derby.

10. This is not only one of my favorite sports memories of all times, but I would actually put this in my Top 3 "Moments I Felt Most Alive". At Lap 172 Danica Patrick, then a rookie, takes the lead to become the first woman to ever lead a lap at the Indy 500. No video or television coverage could ever truly capture what I felt there on my feet in the stands at the 2005 Indianapolis 500. The crowd became one giant, excited nerve.

In this first video you can hear the announcer say, "All is right with the world" and I think that is exactly how we all felt in that moment.

This is a fan's video taken from the stands in Turn 2 - imagine those cheers magnified by 300,000 people multiplied by 12 laps. Amazing.

You can play along! Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

polly esther: mail bag

2009-06-19T23:42:00.004-05:00

Following my recent review of eye shadow primers I received a few questions about the use of these products that I'd like to address.

QUESTION: Do you allow primers to dry before applying shadow?

ANSWER: Yes & no.

This depends on both the primer and which type of shadow you are using. With a primer that starts out tackier - such as Urban Decay's Primer Potion - you want to allow the primer to dry slightly before applying shadow. This really doesn't take long at all. In the time it takes to gather your shadows and brushes your primer should be dry and ready to go. Primer/bases like MAC Paint Pot really require no drying time.

Now, with loose pigments or minerals - such as Bare Escentuals, MAC pigments , or Make Up For Ever Pure Pigments - you'll want to act more quickly and take advantage of the sticking power of the primer while it's still wet or tacky. Pack a flat shader brush with the loose powder and pat it onto your lid to avoid fall-out.

This is actually a comment from my mom

QUESTION: You told me if use an amount about the size of a rice grain.

ANSWER: If you use a primer from a tube - such as Too Faced Shadow Insurance that had no applicator-a good tip is that you''ll need an amount that is about the size of a grain of rice.

So, have you tried an eye shadow primer yet? I've love to know! Leave a comment.

friday candy: father's day edition

2009-06-19T16:30:00.003-05:00

The Candy: Flowers on the Wall or Do You Remember These by The Statler Brothers
Why this is sweet: As a little girl I loved listening to an 8-track "Best Of'" Statler Brothers album my dad had. So, in honor of Father's Day I thought I'd pick these songs for my dad.

polly esther: bare escentuals 20% sale

2009-06-19T09:17:00.005-05:00

Shop on-line this weekend at BareEscentuals.com and receive 20% off your order. Use the checkout code SHARE.

For more info click here.

polly esther: my favorite drugstore mascara

2009-06-18T22:49:00.007-05:00

L'Oreal's Voluminous Carbon Black Volume Building Mascara is my favorite favorite favorite drugstore brand mascara. It's the one I use most often and you'll always find it in my makeup bag.The Voluminous line is also available in Black/Brown, Soft Brown, and Black. But I opt for the rich inky Carbon Black. Voluminous is my favorite drug store mascara because of both the formula and the brush. It commonly retails at $6.99, but can often be found at a sale prices under $5.00.

COMING SOON
* reviews of other mascara brands
* why I don't use waterproof
* how often you should replace your mascara

ten on tuesday: 10 things i'di bring on a deserted island

2009-06-16T23:26:00.005-05:00

Lip balm
A nice firm mattress
Paper
Pencils + Pens
Books/Bible
Chocolate
Water filter
Sunscreen
Coffee
Swiss Army Knife

Really, I think I could fair very well with just the knife + the lip balm. With the knife I could whittle knitting needles. And I can teach myself to spin fibers into some kind of yarn.

Wanna play along? Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

summertime television - whatcha watchin?

2009-06-14T21:15:00.003-05:00

When it's too hot (or too rainy?) outside and you just want to sit in the a/c what are you watching on TV? Here are a few shows I'm enjoying this summer.

The Closer (TNT)
I enjoy having small batches of all new episodes of really great television.
Thank you. Thank you so much. Can you hand me my pocket book, Loohuu-ten-it? Southern Belles: Louisville (Soap Net)
Do I really need to explain this one?
The next time someone says to me, "You don't sound like you're from Kentucky" I'm going to point them to Southern Belles Louisville. This IS what a girl from (Western/Central) Kentucky sounds like. (And please don't say that to me.)

The Bachelorette featuring Jillian Harris (ABC)

Say what you will about this format for dating - it makes good TV. Jillian is likable. And I'm rooting (so far) for Robby, Ed, and Michael. Can't wait for Wes to go home...Harper's Island (CBS)

Yeah! Thriller. Mystery. Who Done It?

The Sheriff with an arrow in the woods? The Step-Mom with a bowie knife in the Candlewick? I'm going to be sad when this one is over. I hope they don't let me down. Whoever done it, I hope it's a shocker!

polly esther: eye shadow primers

2009-06-13T15:33:00.006-05:00

Here's a makeup tip you can quickly and simply add to your daily routine. It has really changed the way I wear my makeup and become an indispensable part of my everyday ritual. Eye shadow primer!

So, what’s the deal with eye shadow primer and why is it an essential? Think of it like a primer you’d use when painting your walls.

First, shadow primer evens out the tone and texture of your lids. It’s different from concealer or liquid foundation as it’s made specifically for the thin and delicate skin of your eye area and it formulated to last, last, last. More specifically, it gives your shadows something to adhere to - which means they will stay in place and you’ll get longer wear and less fading and creasing.

Primers also make your shadows look more vibrant so you can really enjoy the color payoff of richly pigmented shadows. Just like the primer you’d use on your walls, tinted/colored primers really make your shadows pop! And they can make your shadows more blend-able.

The two I use most often are MAC’s Paint Pot in Painterly and Urban Decay’s Primer Potion.

MAC PAINT POTS

$16.50 (0.17 fl oz)
MAC currently offers 13 shades of Paint Pots. If you’re looking to invest in one shade for your makeup kit I recommend one close to your skin tone or one that compliments the shades you wear most often. Painterly is one of MAC’s top sellers in Paint Pots and is a pinky beige fleshtone. Similarly, Ochre is a versatile shade with yellow tones. Paint Pots also come in colorful like Delft (a deep teal), Girl Friendly (ruby fuschia), Indianwood (bronze), and Blackground (blackish grey).

URBAN DECAY PRIMER POTION

$17.00 (0.34 oz.)
My other everyday favorite is Urban Decay’s Primer Potion. This seems to be one
of the most popular eye shadow primers among makeup enthusiasts. The original Primer Potion is a creamy yet sheer fleshtone that easily goes on with a doe foot applicator. When first applied it goes on tackier than MAC’s Paint Pots - so it’s great to use with shadows that contain shimmer or with loose pigments.

Recently Urban Decay released a shimmery champagne Primer Potion in a shade called “Sin”. Oh Urban Decay and your ingenious color names...! This is a great example of how a tinted shadow primer can enhance the color of your eye shadows. A mini Sin Primer Potion came with the Urban Decay Get Baked set I got about a month ago. It really brings out the layers of tones in the golden shadows (Baked + Half Baked) in that palette.

I’ll briefly talk about two others I’ve tried in the past.

L’Oreal Paris De-Crease Eye Shadow Base

$7.99 (. 2 fl oz)
If you’re still not sold on eye shadow primers and want to start with a cheaper, drugstore version I recommend L’Oreal’s De-Crease. This primer is a bit similar to the UD Primer Potion. But I must be honest and share that, in my experience, the consistency is thinner and the wear is not as long lasting. In the long run, you get less product in both amount and effectiveness.

BENEFIT LEMON AID COLOR CORRECTING EYELID PRIMER

$20.00 (0.09oz)
It’s been awhile since I’ve used this, but any time I’ve used a Benefit product I’ve been more than happy with it. For whatever reason, I just got out of the habit of buying this brand. Lemon Aid is a happy creamy yellow cream that quickly evens out the color of your lids.

Other eye shadow primers I’ve heard great things about…

MAC Paints $16.50 (.23 oz)
Too Faced Shadow Insurance $17.00 (0.35 oz)
Benefit F.Y…Eye $22.00 (0.25 oz)
Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer $20.00 (0.1 oz)
Bare Escentuals Prime Time Eyelid Primer $16.00 (0.05 oz)

With the exception of MAC, most of these products can be found at cosmetic stores/websites such as Sephora, Utla, Cosmetic Market, and Beauty.com as well as the boutique stores and websites of each brand.

So, how do you wear these products? Some come with an applicator. But they can also be applied with your fingertip (the warmth of your skin will actually warm the product and help it go on smoothly) or with a stiff synthetic shadow brush.

First, apply the product to your lid. Then to the area above the crease, up to the brow. Finally smooth into the crease. A small amount of primer can also be added to the corners and lower lash line – be sure to smooth things out!

An eye shadow primer is a valuable investment. I think you’ll find it to be a fantastic addition to your daily makeup routine. And will help you get the most out of your eye shadows and keep you looking smashing all day long.

friday candy

2009-06-12T07:00:00.003-05:00

Wow. I haven't posted all week? Really? Bad Blogger. Bad bad.

The Candy: Knights of Cydonia by Muse
Why this is sweet: I have a new love -the band Muse. If I had to compare them to other musical acts I might say something like this...

The obvious comparison is Radiohead...meets Keane meets INXS meets Rush meets Electric Light Orchestra (Can you say Xanadu? You know it’s a good song. Don’t front.) meets Queen meets YES! meets Phil Wickham meets more Radiohead meets awesomeness. They’ve been around for over 15 years and were a band I had heard of but had never known personally.

Until recently.

I love when a band really rocks with wailing guitars and heavy bass lines and yet still has really *pretty* vocals. AND they have lots of amazing videos. Expect more Friday sweetness from Muse...

friday candy

2009-06-05T05:45:00.000-05:00

The Candy: Scott Dixon's INDY Downforce commercial.
Why this is sweet: Indy Downforce, the Indy Car Series fan club/forum/group/cult, has come out with some GREAT commercials this season. Below is one featuring The Iceman, Scott Dixon. This one is pretty hilarious. But I will say that my favorite is still the one with Dario Franchitti (which I've yet to find a video of online).

horse hair. just because.

2009-06-04T23:33:00.003-05:00

Photographer Julian Wolkenstein dressed horses up with fancy manes and took their pictures.

Fantastic.

fanny pack attack

2009-06-03T20:50:00.005-05:00

It's almost that time again. The annual event when Country and Western music fans descend upon Music City like a swarm of locusts. The event formerly known as Fan Fair - the CMA Music Festival - kicks off next Thursday, June 11 in Nashville.

I have worked in Nashville for over twelve years and I cannot say that Fan Fair is my favorite time of year. Sure, it provides some good entertainment. But when you're having one of those days when you...

cut your leg shaving and can't find a band-aid
pop a button on your pants
sneeze while applying your mascara and make a mess of your face
can't find matching socks
get behind a dozen cars going 4 miles under the speed limit because of a state trooper playing mind games with drivers on I-65
spill coffee in your car because the car in front of you is suddenly braking
have a horrible time merging and nearly miss your exit

...the LAST thing you want to come across when you're about to be late for work is a gaggle of Fanny Packs wandering around Music Row like they ain't never been no wheres and looking for Toby Keith or Sugarland

LYLASarah sent me this fantastic find today. . . FAN FAIR BINGO! It may be last year's version, but trust me, it still applies.

Fan Fair Bingo: When You’re Done Counting Tube Tops (CMApocalypse 2008)

glossary: "Fanny Packs" - a little term I coined meaning tourists

literal video versions

2009-06-03T10:08:00.001-05:00

Total Eclipse of the Heart

Losing My Religion

music: widgetty widgetty wHaCK!

2009-05-31T14:43:00.003-05:00

Notice the stereo widget up there under the DogYarnKnit banner? By clicking on it you can listen to KNAPSACKHEROES! song, "You Don't Know Sarah". It's one of my favorites. I have an added interest in this band as one of the K-Hereos is my cousin/life long dear friend, Eric.

If you have a blog, LiveJournal, Yahoo page, iGoogle, MySpace page, Friendster, Xanga, Facebook, or anything that'll let you post a widget PLEASE help K! out by posting this widget. By doing so you can help KNAPSACKHEROES! win a record deal and $10,000 worth of Fender gear. Awesome.

indy 500: who shot tg?

2009-05-30T23:41:00.004-05:00

I, for one, am glad to see the team owners of the Indy Car Series supporting ("current") Indianapolis Motor Speedway & IndyCar Series CEO Tony George. They have come together to write a letter of support addressed to The Board.

Statement from IndyCar Series Team Owners:

During the past week there have been many rumors and innuendos about our CEO Tony George. We, the IndyCar team owners, want to express our full support to Tony. As an innovator and leader of our sport, he continually strives to help and improve IndyCar racing, and for that we are exceptionally grateful.

AJ Foyt Racing
Andretti Green Racing
Dale Coyne Racing
Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
HVM Racing
KV Racing Technology
Luczo Dragon Racing
Newman Haas Lanigan
Panther Racing
Target Chip Ganassi Racing
Team 3G
Team Penske

friday candy

2009-05-29T05:45:00.000-05:00

The Candy: Closer to Love by Mat Kearney
Why this is sweet: This is the first single from Mat's new album that was released last week.

indy 500: just kidding?

2009-05-27T14:26:00.002-05:00

A few hours after stories of Tony George being voted out as CEO of the IMS began flying around a news conference was called by Tony & The Family to say the reports are false. He is, indeed, still the President/CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Seems Robin Miller, of the Speed Network, jumped the re-start...

For more I direct you to Curt Cavin's Indy Star article.

"I am still CEO and still president of Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation, Hulman and Company, and CEO of the Indy Racing League," George said.

See, I told you this was like an episode of Brothers & Sisters.

indy 500: duh, where did he go george?

2009-05-27T11:48:00.004-05:00

The ink is barely dry on the $3.05 million check awarded to 2009 Indy 500 champ, and now 3-time winner, Helio Castroneves. And there is HUGE news coming out of Indianapolis today.

The grandson of Anton Hulman, Tony George, has reportedly been voted out as the CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Board consists pretty much of Tony’s family – his mother and sisters – and a family attorney. I bet last night’s board meeting, at which the vote took place, read like an episode of As the World Turns or Brothers & Sisters.

Wow. That's gotta hurt. Probably just about as much as TK's second hit into the wall on Sunday.

indy car: sarah fisher on the price is right

2009-05-20T11:17:00.002-05:00

Sarah Fisher will make an appearance on The Price is Right this Friday, May 22 (CBS). Fisher will be part of an Indy 500 themed showcase showdown that will include a trip to Sunday's Indy 500.

Per the press release from SarahFisher.com:

Fisher flew to Los Angeles, California, to film the segment at CBS Television City studio on April 15, 2009. After the show, Fisher had the opportunity to spin the famous 'Big Wheel," thus crossing an item off her bucket list.

indy 500: row 1 milk chugging contest on jimmy fallon

2009-05-19T15:14:00.005-05:00

The starting row of the 2009 Indy 500 - Helio Castroneves, Ryan Briscoe, and Dario Franchitti - were on the Late Show with Jimmy Fallon last night for a little milk chugging contest. The video can be seen on Helio Castroneves' website HERE.

friday candy

2009-05-15T06:30:00.000-05:00

The Candy: You Never Let Go by Matt Redman
Why this is sweet: This has become one of my favorite worship songs.
Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You

polly esther: TIP - bare escentuals on qvc

2009-05-14T23:00:00.006-05:00

I have found one that, when it comes to Bare Escentuals, one of the best places to stretch your dollar QVC. This weekend brings us several opportunities to get our BE on...

Friday, May 15 - 11am & 6-9pm ET
Saturday, May 16 - 2-4am & 2-5pm ET
Sunday, May 17 - 9-11am and 4-7pm ET

Here is a great limited edition set to perk up your complexion. Bare Ecentuals brushes are great tools to add to your brush collection. This set comes packaged in a gold case...all at a great price!

bareMinerals Brighten Up 4-pc Collection & Gold Case

Retail Value $66.00
QVC Price: $36.00
This weekend's Anniversary Price: $29!!

Includes:
0.02 oz soft focus warmth all-over face color in sheer chestnut
0.02 oz rose radiance all-over face color in sheer pink glow
0.02 oz soft focus dune all-over face color in white wash lemon
Double-ended lighten and brighten brush
And a fiercely cute golden case.

Also keep an eye out for BE Buxom Lip Polish. This tingly and minty lip gloss/polish comes in fourteen colors can plump up your pucker!

Tune into QVC this weekend to check out the original mineral makeup!

polly esther: issue 1

2009-05-13T21:02:00.005-05:00

For awhile now I have been considering doing more posts regarding my love for makeup & beauty products. There are, however, already a lot of great online resources (blogs, forums, video tutorials…) regarding those topics. But I get enough questions from friends about my favorite products and techniques that I’ve been considering incorporating some beauty blogging into the mix.I became fascinated with cosmetics as a middle school student. I remember receiving those Cover Girl makeup kits in the hard plastic cases, as Christmas and birthday presents. They usually contained three or four eye shadows, a (most likely gaudy) shade of blush, a lipstick, and an eyeliner. This was during that 80’s fad of colored mascaras - in lavenders, pinks, and baby blues. I can remember gunking up a tube of light purple mascara when I decided to apply some to a Barbie doll’s hair. But my real Crime of Beauty during my middle school days had to have been lining my water line (that rim just above your lower lashes) with an electric blue eyeliner that accompanied one of those Cover Girl kits. NOW, as a grown woman in her thirties, I know more about the proper application of makeup and how to avoid irritating my eyes. But back then I’m sure I walked around Shepherdsville Middle School with nasty electric blue “eye boogers” in the corners of my peepers. Classy. But, hey, I’m sure it went great with my perm.

My mother, always the wise woman, had found a solution to my Crime of Beauty offenses by the time I hit high school. Up to that point I had, basically a small collection of drug store makeup items. But Mom made a deal with me that she would buy me a lipstick from the Clinque counter in Castner Knott’s department store on two conditions. 1) She got to pick out the shade. 2) It was the only lipstick I was allowed to wear. No more hot pinks out of the Cover Girl Hard Plastic Christmas Collection. There would be no “Maybe It’s Maybelline, Maybe It’s Mauve”. Gone were the days of unfortunate, badly chosen candy apple reds. Mom, of course, chose a clean, simple, flattering, age appropriate shade of nude lipstick. Fine. I was sold. I just wanted the “Good Stuff”. The fancy department store makeup counter lipstick in the sleek sliver tube. I believe the color was called “Creamy Nude” or something to that effect.
Since then I’ve become a junkie for the “Good Stuff”.

There are some “drugstore” brands that I trust and know I can almost always fall back on. My favorite daily use mascara is by L’Oreal and some of my most used makeup tools come from the Target’s Sonia Kasuck line. But I find that items by brands like Bare Escentuals, MAC, Urban Decay, NARS, Philosophy, and others are worth the extra coin.
Since I first started considering adding some beauty news to this blog I’ve continued to get questions from friends on makeup tips -which I found encouraging. So, I think it’s time to add my beauty mark!

I’m curious to see what kind of topics you might like to see covered. I know this topic won’t be appealing to all of my readers (yes, like you, Dad). But, if this idea does tickle your fancy please leave a comment or send me an email and let me know what questions you have, what products you’d like to see reviewed, and what techniques you’d like to learn more about. I *may* even do some video blogging… Maybe.

For now, I’ll be filing makeup/beauty talk under “Polly Esther”. So, keep an eye out! And don’t forget to comment/email your requests!

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite places to shop

2009-05-12T05:45:00.002-05:00

1. The Cosmetic Market
2. MAC Cosmetics
3. Sephora
4. Target
5. Crafty Hands
6. Any bookstore
7. Pangea (Hillsboro Village, Nashville)
8. Etsy.com

9. Werner-Lowe Ltd. (hi laura)

10. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway gift shop

Visit the Ten on Tuesday website.

12...11...10...9...

2009-05-11T21:27:00.003-05:00

12 days 14 hours until the Indy 500 y'all!

fun with a (new) webcam

2009-05-10T23:08:00.001-05:00

introducing: fancy farmerete

2009-05-08T22:54:00.005-05:00

This Mother's Day weekend I am very proud to point you to a new blog written by the most important woman in the world (to me) - my mom. My mother loves loves loves dirt. So much so that she's dedicated a place on the internet to talking about it.

I have always loved hearing my mother's stories of growing up on a farm. Like me, my daddy is a preacher's kid. And I know what that is like. But hearing Mom's childhood farm stories have always captured my imagination. Following a heart attack, while stationed in Italy, my Papaw came back to Hardin County, Kentucky to return to his family's tradition of farming. My mom was in the fifth grade at the time. Being a preacher's kid, I moved around a lot while growing up. I think that was another reason I loved to visit my grandmother on the farm my mom grew-up on.

On her blog my mom digs into where her love of dirt and gardening is rooted. Please visit her at Fancy Farmerete.

I now have two blogging parents! Visit my dad at Keep the Son in Your Eyes.

friday candy: mother's day edition

2009-05-08T16:11:00.003-05:00

The Candy: She Colors My Day, by Amy Grant
Why This is Sweet: This song was co-written by Cristina Carlino, founder of my favorite bath and body company, philopsophy. I've chosen this song for this weekend because Amy Grant was my childhood hero, and a very important female role-model in my life. This song is a celebration of relationships between all women - mothers, daughters, sisters, cousins, granddaughters, soul sisters, best friends....

The story behind the song -a conversation between Amy and Cristina:

The song (a pretty lo-fi version)...

Dog.Yarn.Knit.

Two For One!

Winng Car at Indianpolis

Ah one, two, ah, one, two. Check, check...

Testing

Bowlin' (featuring Chris Tomlin)

Don't stop the world. I'm not ready to get off.

Hillsong - Like Incense (Sometimes By Step) - With Subtitles/Lyrics - HD...

Happy Independence Day!

Indy 500: 8 days and counting...

Easter Sunday at Broadway Church

Let Your Name Be Lifted Higher

Christ Is Risen!

check out....

she who laughs...

Oops, I did it again.

snow

what are ya doing....?

the one where i wear bras on my head

What a week...

And Then One Kid Ruins It For the Whole Class...

As the World Comes to a Screeching Halt

Ten on Tuesday: 10 Things You Want, but Wouldn’t Buy for Yourself

iMix Playlist: A warm Heart in a chilly December

my left eye

tanksgibing.

e r a

G-O-D & d-o-g

thanks to everyone who made my brithday so great today

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite current athletes

sometimes i feel very sad

the riveters

Esther Pennyrile

ask me how much i love hope in a jar

to thine own self be kind

urban decay book of shadows, volume deux...you put your weed in there?

a few labor day makeup/beauty treats

Four Random Things

what may be one of my favorite photos from the 2009 indy car season

like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land - Proverbs 25: 25

one month to live - thoughts

where there is hope...

sleepy pie derby time

to thine own self...and thy blog readers

a new luxury (yet very practical) item on my wish list

ten on tuesday: 10 beauty products on my wish list

Urban Decay 30% off Friends and Family Event

10 beauty products i love

hey you! yeah, you. vote!

love*kiss*finger*tips

one month to live super series

happy 40th anniversary mom and dad!

hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair, hair

dear indy race league, where can i get one of those push to pass buttons for my honda crv?

pardon the interruption

okay, let's try this again.

and then inspiration + timing strike

summer recess

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite songs of the 1980's

forever a 5th grader. and I don’t care.

betty white + bruce willis

polly esther: everyday smoky eye (an lightly detailed tutorial of sorts)

book give away

polly esther: QUICK TIP - brow raising!

ten on tuesday: 10 guilty pleasures on tv

indy 500: tg resigns

michael jackson playlist

friday candy: michael jackson

polly esther: on my makeup guru; eye primers

indy car: sweet sweet vitor

ten on tuesday: 10 favorite sports plays ever

polly esther: mail bag

friday candy: father's day edition

polly esther: bare escentuals 20% sale

polly esther: my favorite drugstore mascara

ten on tuesday: 10 things i'di bring on a deserted island

summertime television - whatcha watchin?

polly esther: eye shadow primers

friday candy

friday candy

lovekissfinger*tips