The Friday Forum - April 8

These beautiful little flowers, Celandine Buttercups, also called Fig Buttercups - or aliens, weeds, invasive plants, and all kinds of unflattering things - were on my property when I moved in. They are cheerful plants this time of year, when their glossy green foliage appears, quickly followed by a profusion of little yellow flowers. Once they bloom and go to seed, they disappear entirely underground, only to come again next year. I enjoy them and have shared them with others delighted by carpets of color. Even a friendly Fairfax County police officer, who used to drop by to chat now and then while on patrol, took some home. I wonder to this day if the plants took over his spring garden.

This week flew by, with crazy swings in the weather here. How could we be suffering from pollen when it's 30 degrees some mornings? At least the grass hasn't grown out of control because my lawn guy hasn't been here to mow yet. Saving money while suffering!

I have been featuring skin care this week. I thought I might finish telling you about everything on my list, but I probably won't. I hope you are enjoying the discussion. I still have about five more products I want to spotlight. I'll get to them because they are great and I think you need to know about them. You thought it was lipstick week? I can see why!

I have watched more television than ever before since my surgery forced me to slow down for awhile. I started watching American Idol, and I think most (not all) of the singers remaining are very talented. Last night, I went crazy when Pia Toscano was eliminated. She was one of the best and I, along with many, thought she might win. In case you haven't been watching, Pia is a former makeup artist with a big voice. I shouldn't watch these shows - they make me angry.

It looked like Jennifer Lopez was upset at the end, but I think JLo played a role in Pia's upset, by criticizing her when she praised so-so performances (supposedly trying to "help take her to the next level"). Whatever that means. I also think they did her no favors with that jumpsuit and look designed by Gwen Stefani. It was hideous. As the result was announced at the end, the Twitter world went nuts, with many saying they wouldn't watch the show again or demanding a recount. If you want to read an online piece about why she might have been eliminated, click here.

I was upset when Susan Boyle lost on Britain's Got Talent - lost to a dance group, Diversity. I think she got the last laugh, making millions from her albums, with her angelic voice. Has anyone heard about dancers Diversity since? Pia's elimination could follow that trend. Surely a record producer will pick her up. She's the new Jennifer Hudson (can you believe she was also eliminated?). I wish Pia the best (she's a "beauty gal") and expect/hope to hear great things from her.

What's new in your life? It's time for The Friday Forum. We use the forum to share information and chat. Did you find any deals you couldn't resist this week? Are you using a fabulous product and want to sing its praises? Did you find a beauty product disappointing? Do you have a question others might be able to answer? Want to talk about skin care? Just use the comments. Don't be shy. Just make sure to ask any question you might have over the weekend. By Monday, most readers have moved on.

My giveaway contest for the Ombres Perlées de Chanel eye shadow palette ends tomorrow night. If you haven't entered and want a chance to win, just click on this link and comment.

Another reminder...Neiman Marcus has InCircle next week. While getting points (for little reward) to spend money is off my radar, the beauty products aren't. Neiman Marcus is receiving a lot of new goodies just in time for InCircle, and there will be many gifts with purchase. Some of them are especially nice. So, if you live near a Neiman Marcus, you will want to check in late next week.

Photo by BTiB