2014: A Year in Review

2014 - Things just keep getting better.

The Good

You Can Call Me Master

Though I completed my MA degree in December 2013, my graduation ceremony was held in May 2014, and I subsequently received the MA document. Going through the procession helped make it official.

Or Just the Coordinator

Along with my MA degree came a new title, new responsibilities, and a BIG FAT RAISE at my campus. Higher income is always nice. I was promoted to Coordinator of Curriculum and Instruction. What does that mean? A lot of work! I re-designed our school's curriculum, oversaw textbook selection and hired & trained new teachers. For the first time in about two years, we have a very balanced teaching staff who collaborate very well. As this year draws to a close, the Dean of Instruction just informed me that I must prepare a teacher education program in the next 18 months. I will also be one of the professors to teach some of the courses. More work = More $$$.

New Home

Okay, so I didn't buy a house. The prices are ridiculous, and it's next to impossible to find the house that I want on my single income. So I settled for an apartment. After a trial and major error (see The Bad), I finally found a place I can call home in Burlingame, CA. I live in a beautiful 1920s apartment building, and my individual unit is definitely reflective of that bygone era. I've been feverishly decorating and arranging my home with a hodgepodge of antiques (19teens-1950s).

Speaking of Antiques

I bought a lot this year. Vintage clothing and accessories, antique furniture and linens, antique appliances, antique decor, etc. I can't possibly link every item on this post. Just look at the vintage page and browse 2014. 

Healing

My therapist reassessed me and determined that I have now reached Post Traumatic Growth. I had suffered from PTSD for years, but after these past two years of therapy, I've found that my anxiety attacks have lessened. What was once a trigger is hardly noticeable. Of course there will be times that I may be reminded of the event, but with the coping skills I've adapted, I'm no longer driven into a panic. I no longer say that I was a victim; rather I am a survivor. Because if I call myself a victim, the attacker wins.

No Cross to Bear

I am completely free and completely clear. And I did it all on my own. Odds were stacked against me; not against me personally but that the chances of success on a first attempt on any case is very rare. However, the love and support of family & friends helped me to declare a long-held truth that was finally heard and confirmed. Justice was finally served, and I prevailed.


The Bad

The Psycho Girlfriend
Originally, I was to share a 2 bedroom apartment with my cousin. He had wanted to leave his current residence at the time because he couldn't stand his roommates. So we went in on a place in Belmont. Everything was going well until my cousin's girlfriend kept showing up everyday. She began using up all the utilities that I paid for (who takes one hour showers?), complaining about my decorating the unit, complaining about my having the master bedroom. She was prone to having fits of anger and would snap on a dime. On one occasion, she snapped at my mother. My cousin stood by and did nothing. I just did not feel comfortable around her and avoided going home. Eventually, she wanted to know why I didn't feel comfortable. I was trying to be nice until ultimately I told her, "I just don't like you. I think you're fake. You are not a good person." A little harsh, but she kept pressing until I finally had to be honest. So I moved out and move on.

The Bum Knee
I seriously injured my knee in mid-October. I could not walk the first week. Thereafter, I had to use a cane to walk. What's worse, I haven't been hiking or dancing in weeks. My MRI results showed that I had no tears. Thank God! I'm now able to walk, climb stairs and dance no more than 160 beats per minute. Still, I need to be careful not to overexert myself.

Fair Weather Friends
What's life without a little bit of irony. I learned that there will always be people who come into your life for the purpose of having their gain. I encountered two of them this year. However, one of them was a person who I considered a good friend; that is until she threw me under the bus when she no longer needed my help. The irony? We had just done a radio show about Fair Weather Friends. Little did I know at that time, she was using me for her own gain just as she has done to countless friends before me. Well, good riddance to bad rubbish is all I have to say. All I can do now is laugh about it.

Who's Got it Better Than the 49ers? EVERYBODY 
I'm totally bummed that my Niners didn't make the playoffs this year. The team was marred by controversy both on and mostly off the field. I've got to say, though, Levi's Stadium is very impressive indeed. Thanks to the bandwagon fans who've now jumped ship and are hawking their tickets for super low prices, I am able to go to more games. Sad thing, though, each home game I've attended, they've lost. And they'll probably lose when I go to the game this Sunday. But I'm always a 49ers Faithful. Win or lose, they're always my team. I gotta say, though, I can't wait for baseball season to start.


The Ugly

Gia the Heifer
Gianelli Mari-Faye Guzman. This stalker is relentless. But she isn't worth the feces scraped off the bottom of a street-bum's boot to devote more than this sentence.


Final Thoughts
So in retrospect, 2014 has been a very good year. There were many ups and very few downs. Of course, nothing is ever 100% good or bad. You always have to take a couple steps back to take a giant leap forward. Yes, I will always encounter negative people and/or situations, but what's important is to always keep smiling and keep thriving. And that will be the same mantra I take with me into 2015. Cheers!

2014 Vintage Purchase(s) #16: Decor

After missing the last three Alameda antique shows, I finally made it back. I was actually concerned that it would be cancelled due to the recent rainfalls, but the weather was very kind today.

This flea market is HUGE. I would say that it's about a three mile walk if you meander through every single row, all the way to the back (and I always do). Because of the myriad goods available, you need to know what you want to buy. At least that's my method. I stick to a "to buy" list and won't let myself purchase anything else. However, if there is something else I like, I make a mental note of it. If I don't find what I'm looking for, then I'll purchase it at the end of my first walk through. I do that because what if later down the line I find what I want, and I've already blown money on something else? Of course, I run the risk of not finding anything on my "to buy" list and whatever it is I found earlier may have been purchased my another buyer. To that I say, "If it's there when I get back, then cool. If not, then it wasn't meant to be."

I've been looking for the following: an antique hand mirror, bathroom wall decor, McKee salt/pepper shakers for my kitchen and any vintage linen for my dining table. 

And here is what I found:

I finally got my hand mirror that hails from the 1940s. It is silver, has an Art Nouveau design and is quite heavy. These tend to run for at least $75 whether it's at a flea market, brick/mortar store, or online. I got this for $15. Why it was so cheap, I don't know. It's in very good condition. But I won't complain.

I really wanted some old wall art for my bathroom. I was looking for mermaids, and this seller had them, but she was charging $35 each piece (and there were 3 in the set). These two pictured above was price at $30 total. Considering that my restroom is green, I decided to buy them. There is plenty of wall space left for me to find other wall art. I want to say this is from the 1950s, but the girlie fish has a hairstyle that emulates the 1940s. Hmmm...not sure. It is definitely a heavy ceramic.

Overall, it was a good antique hunt in Alameda. Though there are a few weekends left in the year, it's quite possible that these may be my final antique/vintage purchases of the year. There will be fewer estate sales due to the Christmas holiday. But we'll see what the small antique shops have available. Until next time...

2014 Vintage Purchase(s) #15: Furniture Galore

November seems to have a been a big month for vintage/antique purchases. Earlier in the month, I had bought two vintage daydresses and 1936 toaster. Since moving into my new apartment (which is in fact and old 1920s building), I've been looking for more antique decor. On my must-have list was a dining bench and a mirror to go with my art deco dresser. Well, indeed I found them at an antique store in San Mateo (with very reasonable prices). 

The mirror has to be from the early 20th century (Edwardian?). I did a few of the tests that date a mirror and if true, then it could date back to the 19th century. I don't think it's that old, though, especially for the deal that I got. It also looks as if it was once part of a dresser as observed by a hole on the bottom. Regardless, it looks great hanging above my dresser.

My parents brought me a kitchen table they found at their local second-hand shops. I doubt it's antique, but it was still cute enough to put in my kitchen. It came with only two chairs, so I was set on finding a bench. It was hard to find one with the correct length. Most are over 4 feet long. I needed one at just beyond 3 feet. What I found was an old piano bench. The seat lifts for a compartment that stored sheet music. It doesn't match the table, and I'm at odds on whether or not to paint it. What I will be doing, though, is making the bench softer by adding some foam and  wrapping it in antique linen. Stay tuned for that one.

After buying these two pieces, my mom happened upon an old quit. She thought it would go very well with my bed. Indeed it is beautiful. Upon inspection, it's quite obvious that this was done by hand. Imagine the time, effort and dedication to creating such a beautiful piece. My late grandmother also made quilts. As I admire this work of art, I'm brought back to the summers and winters spent at my grandma's house in California's Central Valley. I miss her.

The crocheted quilt is my grandma's creation.

Speaking of my grandmother, I asked my parents to bring up her old cabinet. I wanted something nice (and antique) to store my printer and printing supplies.

The last item below was something of an "upcycled" project. As I was researching DIY benches, I came across some photos of old cabinets doubling as both an end-table and dog house. The more typical style was the hexagonal shaped cabinets. My grandmother also had one of those at her house. I believe one of my cousins has it. I searched several thrift shops and estate sales before finally purchasing one at the San Bruno Salvation Army; it was only $7.50! I removed the doors and stained the wood. Then I placed DaisyBell's bedding before she hopped in and napped away. I think it suits her well.

Since it is Christmas season, I purchased a small tree from one of the tree farms in Half Moon Bay and placed it atop the cabinet.

For now, I am holding off purchasing any new furniture. I think I'll start looking into more vintage linen. Stay tuned.

2014 Vintage Purchase #14: More Day Dresses

I couldn't help myself. I said I was only going to look, but you see such cute vintage dresses for the right price! I had to have them.  

Yes indeed, it's that time of year again! The biannual Alameda Pointe Vintage Fashion Faire. Vintage sellers from around The Bay Area descend upon the Michaan Auction building to both showcase and sell their inventory. My favorite sellers were there: Skirt Chaser Vintage, Chick-a-boom Vintage, Hot Couture, all of whom I've purchased from in recent years (though with Skirt Chaser, I've purchased from the lovely Ms. Christina since her e-bay days over 10 years ago). I was bummed not to see another favorite seller; Roads Less Travelled. (Where are you, Tracy?) 

IF I was going to purchase anything, it would only be day dresses. I have so many evening dresses, but I can't wear those to work. I did catch myself eyeing evening attire and forced myself to move along. Then I spied a 1930s dress. It's so delicate and of course it has its flaws, but it would be hard to spot unless you really looked closely (when purchasing vintage clothing, I usually do). It is very sheer, so this requires wearing a slip.

And of course the lovely Christina from Skirt Chaser knows how to dress her patrons. I tried on a few dresses, but passed on them since they were a little big on me. I could always size them down, but with so few vintage clothes available for larger girls, I feel like I'm do a disservice. Then she brought out this cute Mexican peasant dress. I love the embroidered roses at the neckline and the silver ric rac stitching at the hem. It's definitely 1940s since it has the metal side zipper. 

It was definitely a nice score out of Alameda Fashion Faire especially after such a disappointing showcase at the Vintage Expo two weeks ago. I'm already looking forward to the May 2015 Faire.

2014 Vintage Purchase #13: Toaster

I needed a toaster, I bought one. Of course, most of my purchases are antiques so let it not be a surprise that I acquired a 1930s toaster.

It is fairly light but definitely powerful. I plugged it in and the burners fired up (so to speak). I dropped in two slices of an English muffin; they came out perfect.

The toaster is stamped Nelson Machine Manufacturing Company. I researched the company and found that it was founded in 1931 out of Ohio. The company first began making irons and sold it for one dollar. Due to its popularity, the manufacturer went on to make low cost, small electric appliances such as toasters, waffle irons, popcorn poppers and coffee percolators.  These appliances were sold at Sears Roebuck, Woolworths, and five and dime stores. 

The company no longer exits today, but their appliances, though made inexpensively, continue to thrive today.

Home Sweet Home

So I moved, yet again. Though I loved living in the hills amidst the deer frolicking outside my window, I just couldn't put up with my cousin's psycho-bitch girlfriend (and that's putting it mildly). All was well and good in the beginning until she started spending the night practically every night, using up the utilities that I pay for, and complaining about my decorating and my having the master bedroom. Seriously? Is your name on the lease? She is incredibly disrespectful and treats people horribly. But I put my foot down when she snapped at my mother, who was visiting me one weekend. I told her straight out that I didn't like her, she isn't a good person and she's fake. I love my dear primo, but it was time for me to move on. 

And on I went. This time, NO ROOMMATES! I knew it would be a bit of a struggle finding a nice place within my budget. I did not want to go back to San Francisco; I'm through with in-law living. Nor did I want to live in a large apartment community; too many intrusive rules. I strongly considered Half Moon Bay as it is very peaceful, but it's too remote. There are only two routes to get to and from and there is hella traffic.

I wanted a community that was close enough to San Francisco but still a nice suburb. As luck would have it, a really nice apartment popped up in Burlingame and within my budget.  I love that the apartment building is small (only 10 units) but the individual unit is pretty big; 500 square feet. The best part: it was built in the 1920s and it still has its vintage charm. I knew it would be perfect to house my antique furniture and vintage clothing. I applied and was immediately approved. Yay!

Here are a few snapshots:

It actually works! That is, to buzz people in the building.

Many older homes from the early 20th century have a cove for the telephone. 

Outside the restroom is a changing area. It houses my antique vanity.

This is the only outlet that is original. I love the design.

Nice light fixture in the hallway

I love the arch!

Old door knobs throughout the unit

Now this I love. A built in ironing board in the kitchen.

I am only half a block from one of Burlingame's shopping districts. I don't have to drive anywhere for anything; there are restaurants, grocers, pharmacies, salons, etc. And Caltrain is just a short distance to commute for work. Love it! It reminds me so much of San Francisco's West Portal neighborhood (the only SF neighborhood that I like); a throwback to simpler times. Burlingame is definitely a neighborhood that I want to stay long term if not for the rest of my life.

2014 Vintage Purchase #12: Sconce

My apartment is in an old Mediterranean-style building erected during the 1920s. My unit has retained its vintage charm with built in vanities, telephone hutches, old tiles and arched ceilings. So naturally, it is a perfect fit for me considering my large vintage wardrobe and antique furniture collection. One thing I've been looking for is antique lighting (and I'm still looking for a small, antique dining table).

My friend, Burnie, works at an antique/vintage clothing store. When I shop there, he kindly gives me a 10% discount. He usually contacts me whenever "new" inventory arrives; specifically clothing from the 20s-40s. The last few times I went, I noticed this great sconce. I asked him about it and he told me that there were originally two sconces but the buyer preferred to purchase one. They were kinda pricey; after all, it is from the 1930s. Whenever I went back to the shop, I kept staring at it admiring its artistry. I finally made up my mind to purchase it. The sconce is absolutely gorgeous, and the pictures below just don't do it justice.

Now to find the right spot to gloriously shine bright.

Vintage Fashion Expo - Fall 2014

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Spookeasy San Francisco

My fellow chorus girl alerted me to a Halloween themed Vaudevillian show at Chinatown's Great Star Theatre and sent me a link for the pre-view show. Spookeasy San Francisco. The variety show consisted of short skits, burlesque, chorus girls, dance routines, juggling acts and comedy acts. It was incredibly entertaining. It's great to see theatre shows of yesteryear making a return to the stage.

1920s built Great Star Theatre in Chinatown

Great Star Theatre Interior

Talent Show

Contortionist

Minnie the Moocher parody

Mr. Nobody

Great skit. I loved the Raymond Scott music.

Mobile users can view video here.

 Chainsaw juggling act

Mobile users can view video here

Classic Horror Cinema

In the spirit of Halloween, I decided to post 31 Days of Classic Horror Cinema on my Instagram account; each day showcasing a different horror movie from days gone by. I started with 1920s cinema and have completed up to the late 1950s. I've seen each film posted to my Instagram and only those that I enjoyed. What constituted as scary during that time would be considered corny today. Some have held up over time or could possibly be reclassified under a different genre (sci-fi, suspense, psychological thrillers, etc.) But as I looked back on each post, I started to notice the underlying themes that reflected their respective generations and their fears.

1920s 

What I noticed was that the antagonist tended to be either a disturbed or deeply misunderstood person. Emotionally, he never fit in with the general public, or he was simply unaccepted because of a physical abnormality. The 1920s was generally a time of exuberance, opulence, and indulgence. But it was also an era of illicit behavior due to the prohibitive laws of that time. What was there to fear except the inner demons let lose when under the influence of often potent if not deadly libations.

1930s 

We've now reached the Depression Era when most everyone was struggling and skeptical of their fellow man. Is it any surprise, then, that many of the antagonists were mindless drones seeking what other individuals had? Even King Kong was considered a metaphor of the rural south invading the industrialized big city and wreaking havoc. Men feared each other due to the harm they could cause each other.

1940s

World War II brought the U.S. out of the brink of total despair that followed the economic downturn of the 1930s. The war unified the nation against the threat of the Axis powers. The monster had a face, and it was Hitler. Though the 40s had its fair share of monster movies, many films focused more on psychological fear; quite possibly because there was a real threat overseas. In fact most films of this era were considered dark, suspenseful, and psychologically thrilling (Film Noir) with a tinge of apathy.

1950s
Ah the Fifties. The Atomic Era. The Red Scare. McCarthyism. Blacklisting. The U.S. was under threat of communism (or so its government would have Americans believe). Is it really a surprise, then, that most films focused on supposed consequences of atomic warfare or people being led to an impending doom? Several films depicted grossly oversized bugs (as a result of radiation exposure) terrorizing people. The alien invasion as a metaphor of the invasion of all things un-American. There was always something to run away from before finally standing up to and victoriously attacking the threat.

My Personal Favorites
This final week before Halloween will have posts consisting of my favorite horror films that I will never tire watching. Some have already been posted in the previous decades listed (Dr. Caligari, King Kong, Cat People), but others are as recent as 1987. When it comes to horror film, I'm less about gore and more about the suspense and thrill.

Alfred Hitchcock has always been one of my favorite directors (the other is Tim Burton). When it comes to suspense and thrills, his films are on the must-see list. Evil Dead is ridiculously gory, but hey, it's Bruce Campbell! Poltergeist still creeps me out today and The Lost Boys has a special place in my heart; who doesn't love 1980s Santa Cruz? But when it comes to my all time favorite, it's American Werewolf in London. I don't care what people say about it looking fakey today. I still say that it is by far the best werewolf transformation in history.

So if you're not sure what to include on your Halloween Horror Fest, choose a few of the films above for a public viewing and appreciate the history of horror and it's projection of American fears.

Presidio Officers' Club

There has been a lot going on this weekend: The Alameda Park Street Car Show, the Rosie the Riveter Show and the Royal Jazz Society at the recently remodeled Presidio Officers Club. I rarely make trips to the East Bay unless it has to do with coloring my hair or buying vintage clothing and other antique goods (though I need to take a drive to Berkeley for the Magic Vegan Bacon Grease). So Presidio Officers' Club it is. 

From what I gathered in learning its history, it was established in 1776 (long before California statehood) as an entertainment meeting place for military personnel and their families. The architecture is typical Spanish adobe prevalent throughout California. It harkens back to the days of Spanish colonialism and the establishment of missions up and down the coast. Today, the Officers' Club continues its tradition of cultural entertainment now open to the public.

Considering that the Royal Jazz Society typically performs at Gatsby, I decided to go in 1920s attire. My inspiration, of course, was none other than the "It Girl" herself, Clara Bow. I pulled back my red hair and secured it with a scarf; typical flapper attire. I went heavy on the eye make up with dark red lips and rouged cheeks (Merlot lip color and Apricot Rouge by Bésame Cosmetics). I only wish I had her eyebrows. I went for a Jersey dress that was popular during the 20s. The shoes are "It Girl" from Remix. Great dancing shoes, by the way.

I didn't expect there to be such a crowd, but when the band is good and the venue is free, expect the entire Bay Area swing dance community to attend. It was packed. I danced quite a bit but it was mostly Balboa due to the tight quarters. I did some Lindy hop provided that there was some space available to do a swing out. I only wish there were collegiate shag dancers out there. Shag is my favorite dance. 

 

I took a break from dancing and decided to tour the rest of the space. In addition to its dance hall, there are several exhibit halls showcasing the history of The Presidio and its shaping of San Francisco culture. 

I really hope the swing dancing is something that continues even if for a monthly or seasonal occasion. It's always nice to get dolled up and dance in historic venues.