We all found out on Black Friday 2008 that the United States has been in a recession since December 2007.  *No duh!!* But anyhoo, in these shaky times, everyone still wants to look good.  There will still be some holiday events to attend, so glam it up (in moderation, of course)!!

So here is my holiday wish list.

Urban Decay Velvet Rope 24/7 Glide-On Pencil Travel

I have the VIP travel set and I really like them. The colors are brilliant and beautiful.  The Velvet Rope speaks to my conservative side, I can work these for an everyday “no-fuss” look.

Barry M Nail Paint in Racing Green

I am really liking Barry M’s Nail Paint. The formula is thick enough and the colors are rich. I have been desiring a smoky green shade for the winter months, but I have looked high and low to no avail, so Santa, I better see this underneath my tree.

Eyeko Fat Balm Tint For The Lips And Cheeks

I saw this item on Asos.com and every time I place an order, I fail to put in my basket, but I do want it.  The Eyeko Fat Balm Tint For The Lips And Cheeks retails for $7 and change, but the US retailers sell it for upwards of $13. (The Shipping is a flat rate @ asos.com, so I usually make a list of must haves to make the purchase worthwhile.)

Bourjois Shimmering Shine Eyeshadow in Smokey Grey

I have the Pink shimmering shine eye shadow and I like it, so I think the grey would be great for creating a soft, smoky shimmery look. I wished I bought it when Sephora had it in the clearance section, but I snoozed. Thank goodness for asos.com

Nouba 60 Single Eye Shadow

Nouba 60 is described as “shimmery golden brown with olive undertones.”  This shade would be great for my holiday look I am planning. (blending with Purely Cosmetics’ Cream To Powder shadows).  Get your Cream To Powder shadows TODAY!!!

Nouba 22 Single Eye Shadow

The color description is “toffee flecked with purple shimmer” sounds very enticing me…like I need to have it now. Santa, you will be on NOTICE, if I do not get the Nouba shadows.  I got my eyes on you, man. lol

Urban Decay Deluxe Eye Shadow Box

This is a must have for all true beauty connoisseurs! I absolutely love and the price is great for the Shadow Box ($36) considering that a single Deluxe eye shadow costs $18.  Check out reviews on Total Beauty of the Urban Decay Deluxe Eye Shadow Box and any other beauty products.

Happy Holidays,

Mix Maven

Hello Glossy Ones!

Happy New Year and all that good stuff!  I hope you all enjoyed the holiday season as much as I did.  While I didn’t have a whole two weeks off like some people, I enjoyed my holiday time off all the same.

Since we at P&G are getting back into the groove, no formatting from me today.  Just straight blogging!

Let’s talk about my great Christmas gifts!  Yippee – I must have been a really good girl because I was blessed with such awesome gifts!  First off, I have FINALLY joined the iPod revolution!

My hubby really spoiled me and got me the green (my fave color) iPod nano.  I love, love, love it!!!!  I started loading songs Christmas day and as it stands, I have over 400 songs on it already.  I found a very cool and slender speaker for it at Target for $15.00 and the sound quality is excellent.  So I put the iPod, the cool leather case hubby got for it, the ear buds and the speaker inside a make up bag (got it from BBW and it says “SPF-Stay Pretty Forever” – so cute) and carry it in my bag to work.

Hubby surprised me with this Palm Centro too!  Yummy and I chatted about about this phone when I initially posted it last month.  The phone is a small size and if you wear fake nails, this is not the phone for you!  The buttons are on the small side, but still very functional.  SO MANY great features on this phone, I don’t even know where to begin!  Great access to e-mail, four instant messenger programs, including Yahoo and AOL, awesome On Demand features that let you check the news, weather, entertainment, and even TV Guide, and a Call Tone feature where you buy a song clip to be played when people call you.  So if you are special enough to have my number, you will hear “Overjoyed” by Stevie Wonder playing while the phone rings on my end.  I haven’t bought a case for it, so it gets carried in one of my Coach wristlets – it’s a perfect fit.

My girl Dani got me the greatest gifts ever, including this Coach signature frame keyfob.  Dani got me black on black with the white stitch, which matches my Coach hobo and shoes perfectly!

I got a number of gift cards – Bath and Body Works, Macy’s and Nordstrom to name a few.  I used the Nordstrom gift card to get the Amazing Grace perfume, which I absolutely love!

No pics of what my folks got me – a fly suit for work, gift cards plus money, and shoes.  They even bought a stocking full of toys for my pup, which have all been chewed to shreds!

Switching gears, the only song that I am really jamming right now is “Falsetto” by The Dream.  “Ooo, Ooo, Baby, I, I, I!”  Love it!

My first must have shoe for 2008 is the Nanette Lepore Snake-Embossed T-Strap.  Four inches high and I love shimmer of the snakeskin against the neutral color.

Gotta leave my Glossy Ones with a Word to carry you all through the week.  Short, but powerfl clip – Martha Munizzi singing “I Know The Plans I Have For You.”

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

~ Jeremiah 29:11

Have a Wonderful Week!

~Joy

Merry Christmas

to our

Wonderful Readers!

Hey Glossy Ones,

The Ladies of Pumps and Gloss certainly hope you are having a wonderful holiday season.  It is so hard to believe that we are so close to Christmas already!  Since I am borderline overwhelmed at work and very far behind on Christmas gift shopping (I had planned to shop today after church, but we got six inchesof snow and we’re all stuck in the house), I have to make this posting brief!  Here are some of my favorite Christmas songs and clips.  My original format will return when we meet again! 

This is the greatest Christmas song EVER!

I love Celine Dion – her voice is just amazing.  Make sure you watch how she holds the note at the end!

How can you not love this?

The lyrics to this song are just hilarious!  The Christmas Music Station here keeps it in rotation, so I get a good  laugh on the way to work.

I love, love, love Mickey’s Christmas Carol.  Part One is above – click here for Part Two and Part Three.

Merry Christmas!

~Joy

Happy Holidays (Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Kwanzaa) to all.

This writer’s strike is really bothering me. I am missing Conan O’Brien, The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. If there were not other important things going on in my life, I would have no reason to exist. I hope both parties can come to a suitable agreement, so I can see my men live on the TV once again.

My top 5 favorites shows are (not in any specific order) that I have never discussed on Pumps and Gloss before:

1. Eureka on the SciFi Network – Mr. Maven turned me on to this show as he is a sci-fi fan, but not in a weird/nerdy way. The show is about a sheriff who moves to a town where all the residents are geniuses. One of the major employers of the town is Global Dynamic where scientists work on high-level, top secret assignments for the Department of Defense. The show has a nice mix of romance, science and mayhem, which I totally love. The ensemble cast includes Salli Richardson, Joe Morton, and Colin Ferguson.
2. The Nanny -I love this show. When the show first aired, I was a freshman in college. At the time, I liked how Nanny Fine dressed because I, too, loved the short skirts and wore them as often as I could. The show is a classic just like “I Love Lucy.”
3. I am not a huge animated fan, but I love “The Boondocks.” This sharply written animated show is definitely NOT for the kids. The show is based on the cartoon strip of the same name. The strip contained a biting critique of popular and political culture in the United States. My favorite episodes include Gangstalicious, a rapper who gets shot and kisses a fellow male rapper. I am still trying to figure out who he is supposed to represent.
4. Chuck is a new show on NBC prime time. We missed a few episodes in the beginning. Thankfully, we were able to catch on easily to the show. “Chuck” is a show about 20-something techy nerd, who accidentally downloads NSA and CIA information into his brain. Chuck works at BuyMore as a tech support that works in the Nerd Herd (i.e. Geek Squad.) He works undercover for the government and each week battles, along with his spy handlers, terrorists and other evil-doers.
5. Las Vegas is worth watching for Josh Duhamel alone. He is definitely fine!! I liked the kick-a$$ nature of the show, until James Caan decided to leave the show, I am sure for valid reasons. The new addition of Tom Selleck as casino owner is a, somewhat, dull . Would have been super nice, if Mike got the President of Operations job, considering he has a degree from MIT. Still I enjoy the show, but I waiting for an increase in kick assery.

What are some of your favorite television shows?

Decking the Halls with Boughs of Holly,

Mix Maven

Hey Pumps And Gloss-y Ones,

As many of you know, Mix Maven loves the shimmer and glimmer, which is one of the reasons why I love the Holiday season. Many of us will have many shindigs to attend, which means we have to be looking good. (Please make sure to acquire appropriate attire for your parties. For example, if you are going to a formal church banquet, no one should have to accidentally see the crack of your buttocks.)

I like J. Crew and I think this store is a good place to find classic, tasteful looks for any occasion.

I found this wonderful dress in the clearance section of the website. The empire waist is flattering on most figures. Pair with chunky pearl necklace or white gold or sterling silver with a solitaire pendant.

I like this dress. This J. Crew Silk Taffeta Dress in Charcoal is for ladies that are not too busty. (If you are busty, back away from this dress right now!!) What about pairing this dress with blue or olive leather opera gloves for a pop of color?

I am totally in love with the Black Betsey Johnson and Kelly Green Maggy London shift dresses. The sequins brighten up the Betsey Johnson dress. Most, if not all, body types would look great in this style of dress.

I adore the layered box pleated-collar because it creates visual interest to an otherwise plain dress. The silk chiffon is glorious and looks chic and comfortable. This dress is also figure flattering and great for the petite ladies who are a few months pregnant.

If you get bored with all the carols and other holiday songs at the soirée, ask the DJ to play “Dumb it Down” by Lupe Fiasco …. great message in the song!!

My new favorite song!!

Tis The Season to be Jolly,

Mix Maven

Hey Glossy Ones,

Happy December! 

I sit here all bundled up because my cold turned in to a sinus infection.  Can you believe that I have been sick for the whole month of November?!  Ugh, it hurt me SO bad that I couldn’t get out on Black Friday.  Hopefully, I will be able to get out and shop with Mix and Sen – I know they must be half way done with their Christmas shopping by now!

MONDAY MELODIES

P&G Reader D-Dub has requested Alicia Keys’ new song, “Like You’ll Never See Me Again” (above).  I’m really digging this song too.  D-Dub also pointed out that Alicia and Common are in this video together, as well as in Common’s video “I Want You” (below).  Common is SO fine!  Thanks D-Dub!

MONDAY FLASHBACK

Speaking of Common, here is my all time favorite song by him, “Come Close” featuring MJB.

SHIFT HAPPENS

I received this link through e-mail and I found it completely fascinating.  I encourage all of you to take the time to watch it.

The video was created by Karl Fisch and modified by Scott McLeod.

MONDAY CHRISTMAS MELODY

For the month of December, I will share a Christmas song to help spread the holiday cheer.

Mix Maven posted the orginal version of “This Christmas” by the late, great Donny Hathaway (any of you know anything about “Where is the Love?”) last week.  Here is Chris Brown’s version from the movie of the same title.  I’m told it was a good and cute movie that will become a holiday favorite.  I’ll be going to see it as soon as I can!

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FOR MY FOLKS

I got started on my post today and almost forgot that I told you all last week that I would share what I plan on getting my parents for Christmas.  Here goes…..

I don’t know about any of you, but my Father is the HARDEST person EVER to shop for, be it Birthday (could it be because he’s a Taurus?), Father’s Day or Christmas.  My Dad is a BIG sports fan and player – believe it or not, my Dad will be 60 next year and he actively (and competitively, trash talk and all) plays tennis and basketball.

I have already bought many a basketball, tennis racquet, gymshoes, etc.  But when I got my Mom some Jordan’s for Mother’s Day this year, I could have sworn a saw a smidge of jealousy in his eyes. :-)  So check out the Jordan gymshoes that I am debating on getting my Dad this year:

Jordan Men’s Hoop Low Basketball Shoe – Currently $59.98 at Finishline.com

Jordan Men’s B’Loyal Low Basketball Shoe – Currently y $79.98 at Finishline.com

Jordan Men’s Pure Game Basketball Shoe – Currently $79.98 at Finishline.com

Jordan Men’s Rising Star Basketball Shoe – Currently $99.98 at Finishline.com

I am leaning towards the last two pair.  I’ll probably order a long sleeve Jordan tee and be done with Dad. Whew!

On to the sunshine of my life, my Mommy.  Here are a few ideas I have in mind for “my girl”:

Now Mom has asked for Adidas wear.  She is an avid walker and loves the fit of Adidas jogging suits.  I’m not going to post any Adidas stuff here because there is a lot to choose from, but check out this link to JCPenny’s to see what they have to offer.

My Mom has a Burberry purse with matching boots.  I was thinking these cashmere ear muffs would be so cute!

I always try to give Mommy a piece of jewelry.  I think this Tiffany bracelet is so pretty.  I love how the heart is integrated in the bracelet.  This is a definite gift for Mom this year.  The Tiffany store is always crowded beyond belief during the holiday season – so much so that a line is formed inside the store for help.  I will order this online and have Mom’s first initial engraved on the back.

Still debating on what else I could get Mom, so brain storming is still in effect.  I’ll keep you all updated.

MONDAY PRAISE – The Christmas Edition

I love, love, love Vanessa Williams’ version of “What Child Is This” – jazzy!

Let us remember the real meaning of Christmas!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. ~ Isaiah 9:6

Have  a wonderful week!

~Joy

 Happy Holidays!!!

Wow, it seems as though the time is just flying by that it is almost the end of 2007.  Well, Glossy Ones, I truly hope everyone ate well during the Thanksgiving holiday as well as had a productive shopping day the day afterward.  Like my cohorts, I, too, am posting my wish list for the holiday season.

Here is my list:

I love to cook and make everything easy.  I love this slow cookers especially since you can go turn it on before you leave home in the morning and come home to a meal ready for eating.  I can’t figure out why I never had one in the first place.  It’s a hassle to come home and figure out what you want to eat when it could be cooking while you’re at work.

I was at the House of Dereon website and this is on the cover, but I saw it first in Vibe.  I love the dress that Beyonce is wearing.  I could ROCK that dress.  This is truly a wish because it is not being sold on the website.  I checked every link on the page, but I am putting this on my wish anyway. 

I can not believe that I have grey suits, but no shoes to set it off.  So these grey shoes from JCPenny are nice for the work day. 

All of my friends know I love me some Bath and Body Works.  I even got my boyfriend to use the plugins at his house.  So this lovely basket is nice for those long days at the office or if you just want to relax and enjoy a NICE HOT BATH.  I also will take Bath and Body Works gift cards.

I couldn’t post without having a sexy item.  Well, I took a different approach since this is my Christmas wish list.  I absolutely love “Sex in the City”.  I can not wait for he movie to be released in May. Yipppppeeeeeeee!!!!  In order to complete my collection, I need seasons 2, 5 and 6 part 1.  A lot of places are still sold out. 

I need a wallet for my purse and I love this wristlet.  I have checked out the wallets and the one I want costs almost as much as my purse!

I don’t get to the movies that often this year, but I do enjoy a good movie every now and then.  A gift card helps especially at the concession stand.  It costs more to eat in the movie theatre than watch the movie itself.

I wish everyone a Safe and Merry Holiday.

Sensual Element 

Hey Pumps and Glossy Ones,

Mix Maven is feeling refreshed from the Thanksgiving break. Thankfully, the dinner went well and I was nice and full.

I enjoy Christmas. Even though, I do not always decorate my home for Christmas, the season is held very closely in my heart.

My favorite Christmas song ever is “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway. No one, and I mean NO ONE, sings this song as good he did. (Ok, honorable mention to Gloria Estefan, who comes the closest.)

Here is my Christmas Wish List:

MAC fans can never have enough MAC products, especially the brushes. This face brush set is a great for traveling. (Sidebar: Readers, please let me know if your thoughts on MAC loose beauty powders.)

Whoa lurdie, I love this Pink Satin Peep Toe Sandal by Christian Louboutin. These shoes are wonderful addition to any closet. I would pair them with an understated wrap dress, so the high-heeled marvel can be the focal point of the outfit.

Or maybe I will wear the peep toe sandal with a sassy apron while I bake some goodies for Mr. Maven. Before I bake, I need to get the KitchenAid 5-Quart stand mixer in a soft Pink. Now, if I could get one in fuschia, that would be super great!

I have always wanted another Louis Vuitton. When I was younger, my grandmother gave me one of her older Vuittons and I was so pleased to have it. I wore it out, until a strap fell off! LOL!! I am in love with the Trouville bag. Hmm maybe I need 2.

I love Neiman Marcus!! My aunt M likes to call “Neiman Marcus Last Call Sale”, “The First to Last Call Sale” because she does not think the prices are discounted enough. That being said, I want a Neiman Marcus gift card. Wouldn’t it be nice to wake up Christmas morning and get a $1,000 NM gift card. Yes, adults can dream too!!

Since I enjoy reading, I want gift cards from Barnes and Noble and/or Borders. I love to collect home decor books and I also love a nice fiction read. I am backlogged…need to continue Zadie Smith’s On Beauty and Sophia Kinsella’s Confessions of a Shopaholic.

I wish you a safe and happy holidays. May all your dreams and wishes come true!!

Live Triumphantly,

Mix Maven