Retro Vertigo

Don't hate me because I'm beautiful.

2009-08-24T16:40:00.006-05:00

Finally. One stunning model and one savvy magazine have shown a bit of actual integrity. Now, how do we get the rest of them onboard?

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Living Vicariously Through Mad Men

2009-08-14T21:23:00.010-05:00

You and everyone you know are cordially invited to...

THE OFFICIAL TWIN CITIES MAD MEN SEASON 3 KICKOFF PARTY

Sunday, August 16, 2009 @ 8:00 pm
Jax Cafe 1928 University Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN

* Live Musical Performances of Mad Men Era Jazz Standards as performed by JEREMY MESSERSMITH, LUCY MICHELLE, JANEY WINTERBAUER and more!
* Tunes and ambiance provided by DJ Jake Rudh
* Fancy 60's Era Dress Encouraged with Prizes Given to "Best Dressed"
* Mid-century design showcase courtesy of Spinario
* Photo Studio on-site to capture the memories
* Mad Men Era Signature Cocktails and Appetizers on Special Courtesy of Executive Chef Bob Foster
* Cigars and Brandy available on-site with tastings in Old World Garden Courtesy of Lewis Pipe
* $100 Gift certificates given away all night long to Jax Cafe, Blacklist Vintage, Tatters Clothing, Spinario and More!
SCHEDULE:
8:00 pm - Doors Open
9:00 pm - Mad Men Season 3 Premiere on large projection screen
10:00 pm - Performances start

TICKETS: $8.00 in advance or $10.00 @ door

And just in case you've been living under a rock, here's some of what you've been missing:

A portion of the evening’s proceeds will go to CaringBridge,® a 501(c)(3) nonprofit web service that connects family and friends during a critical illness, treatment or recovery.

Click

2009-06-03T10:19:00.003-05:00

Hey!
YOU!

Doing anything for the next 3.4 seconds?
Why not click here and cast a vote for my piece?

By the way, you look fantastic in that color.

Cheers,
Retro "Even I Can Be A Wiener" Vertigo

2009-06-01T09:33:00.009-05:00

In honor of Mini V's big 4th birthday today, I'm taking the day off!

I've posted some her absolute "most favoritest" videos for your viewing pleasure!

David Bowie. Life on Mars?
Uploaded by kidibiza - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

Happy Birthday big girl!!!

XOXO,
Retro "Mommy" Vertigo

As I rest on this totem...

2009-05-28T10:00:00.004-05:00

Let's get moderately acquainted, shall we?

A little about my brood:

The Vertigo family is pretty darn big. I've 3 older brothers (plus an equal number of sisters-in-law) and a younger step brother and sister who live out of state. I share the same name (first *and* last) with my Step Mother (who, much to Papa Vertigo's chagrin, Mama Vertigo refers to as "The Ex-Wife In-Law") and recently a Step Father entered the mix. Closest in proximity are my soon-to-be 4 year old and her Daddy. And this doesn't even include the nephews, nieces, godchildren, aunts, uncles, 1st cousins and close friends that round out my little circus sideshow.

But I digress...

A bit about my big bros:

Brother Vertigo #1 has never required much sleep - an enviable trait indeed. With a handful of college degrees and a houseful of mouths to feed, I'm continually amazed at how he maintains a warped sense of humor, a fantastic eye for aesthetics, unyielding "can-do" energy, and an honest-to-goodness crush on his very own wife.

Brother Vertigo #2 is equally blessed and burdened by a multitude of superpowers. His charisma, ingenuity, insatiably adventurous spirit, bull-dozing drive, disarming sense of humor, and giant heart (though he won't admit it) are just some of the superhero elements that make up a complex and tragically epic savior.

Brother Vertigo #3 is currently in Colombia (yes, that one place in South America) working, learning, sacrificing, and generally striving to make the world a better place. He's truly a role model idealist who puts his morals, values, and gut instincts into daily practice.

Advisers, mentors, clowns, critics, listeners, abettors, inciters, debaters, guardians, editors, givers, advocates -- a lifetime of music, laughs, art, and an ocean of memories (pleasant *and* not so much) have been shared. And I deeply appreciate all of the pieces they've added to my life's puzzle. (Thanks guys. Whether or not the message is received, and regardless of the endless torment that I'll no doubt get in return if it is, I love each one of you immensely.)

I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. I better stop here.

To be continued,
Retro "no I haven't been drinking" Vertigo

P.S. Wait a tick! You're not getting off that easy! It's turn to divulge the goods. What's *your* position on the totem? I suspect there's some pretty ripe laundry just begging to getting a little air!

Image Oracle - Vol. 4

2009-05-27T09:41:00.005-05:00

Pssst...XO,
Retro "The Magic Number" Vertigo

The Weather's Perfect, So I'll Keep It Brief

2009-05-25T10:18:00.007-05:00

Fastest update ever -- top ten style:
1. Wimped out on the coconut cake and thoroughly enjoyed a birfday peach pie (prepared) and semi-homemade cinnamon frozen yogurt instead. Very glad I did.
3. Went swimming. (Contrary to popular belief, yes, it gets hot in Minnesota.)
4. Barbecued portabella burgers and corn on the cob were the BOMB.
5. Mini Vertigo ate her weight in corn.
6. Finished last week's photos and began listing many new (old) items in my shop. (Today's the final day of my sale!)
7. Got an offer to have my work published! (More on that later...)
8. Trying desperately to keep away from the dizzying array of estate sales.
9. Gearing up for the next 4 weeks of insanity including Mini V's zoo birfday party, 2 performances, out of town guests, a garden party, Father's Day, and my gargantuan garage sale.
10. The organic garden's been officially and successfully transferred to the outdoors!

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

Peace,
Retro "All You Need Is Love" Vertigo

Is It Happy Hour Yet?

2009-05-20T15:08:00.011-05:00

Sheesh am I ever a blog moron! I've written several blog entries over the last few weeks and apparently forgot to *actually* click the "publish" button... ummm...yeah...okay...

Aside from my ridiculousness, I've some pleasant news to report today! The fine folks at Rusted Belt Threads have featured my manslaughter-free vintage lawn darts in their "Vintage Picnic" post. The article highlights all things Memorial Day (think outdoor BBQs, garden parties, etc.). There's so much summery nostalgia I can hardly wait to throw some gigantic portabellas on my grill! Thx RBT!

Actually, this weekend's chock-full of celebration around here at the Vertigo Ranch! Sunday's Mama Vertigo's 65th birthday! So, along with a small handful of handmade goodies (via the lovely sellers of Etsy, or course), I'm preparing to do some mad science in the kitchen for her. I'M GOING TO BAKE! As you've probably surmised, I'm not the most skilled baker (though *cooking* is a different story) but I know if my experiment works, it'll be a lovely surprise. I've never tried this recipe before so we'll all be keeping our fingers crossed that it'll at least taste as good as it sounds. Here's the recipe I'll be experiementing with:

"Old Fashioned RV Coconut Birfday Cake Or Sumpin Like That"
Cake:
4 eggs
2 c. sugar
2 t. vanilla extract
2 c. flour
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt
2 T. melted butter
Frosting:
6 T. butter
3/4 c. brown sugar
6 T. sour cream
1 3/4 c. flaked coconut

Directions:
1. Preheat oven @ 350 degrees.
2. Beat eggs
3. Add sugar and vanilla and beat more.
4. Mix dry ingredients in seperate bowl.
5. Mix melted butter and milk and pour slowly into wet mixture while beating.
6. Slowly add dry mixture to wet and beat until smooth.
7. Pour into a (generously greased with butter and floured) 9"x13" pan.
8. Bake (35-40 mins @ 350 degress) until golden and springy. Remove cake from over but don't turn it off.
9. Prep frosting by melting butter and beating the brown sugar into it.
10. Add sour cream and beat more until creamy.
11. Hand mix in the coconut.
12. Turn oven to BROIL/HIGH BROIL.
13. Frost cake as uniformly as possible. It doesn't need to be completely cool.
14. Place cake back in oven *at least* 3-5 inches below broiler.
15. Watch cake closely -- it will caramelize within 2-4 mins.
16. Cool completely and serve.

What do you think? Sounds pretty good, right? Well, Mama V's a coconut cake fanatic, so hopefully she'll dig it! I'll try to post a photo or two so y'all can poke a little fun at my baking (mis)adventures!

Time to work on my grocery list now!

Toodle-Loo,
RV

Hot 3 On 1 Action!

2009-05-05T10:27:00.005-05:00

Check it out! My items are featured in THREE different treasuries today! That's an all-time high for me! Please click all three images below to see them up close. You can show even more support by clicking through and leaving a comment! Let's get these at least one of these beauties promoted to the FRONT PAGE and break that record too! (Psst, I have never been featured on the FP!)

Thanks a ton to akacinders, itsabee and portemone for including me in your beautiful collections!

Delighted,
Retro "Feelin' It" Vertigo

Animal Crackers

2009-05-04T11:28:00.001-05:00

Have I mentioned that I'm a proud member of the Handmade Minnesota Street Team? Well, I am! The team was assembled to bring a group of crafty MN mofos together to collectively stir the pot. Being a member (which is still free, for now) grants you instant access to loads of resources, co-conspirators, local events, free promo, etc. If you'd like to find out more about joining, email 'em!

Another feature of the team is the monthly challenge. I haven't actually participated yet but I plan to when the theme strikes me. Please take a peek at this month's creations! To pick your favorite, just click the link below!

HandmadeMN: April 2009 Challenge - Animals

I wanted to vote for 3, but sadly I could only choose 1. :(

Go Team!
Retro "Rah Rah Rah" Vertigo

Love @ First Sight

2009-04-27T01:53:00.005-05:00

Check it out -- someone's got a major crush on me! If only I would've known this sooner!

Thanks Vintage Indie for broadcasting your RV lovin' across the Information Superhighways...even if it took a month for me to discover it. (Yeah, I'm a little thick sometimes.)

Better late than never,
Retro "Potential Paste-Eater"Vertigo

United We Buzz

2009-04-23T12:55:00.024-05:00

Etsy Day
April 24, 2009
Fans and sellers unite!
Please tell everyone you know, link, comment, blog,
post in a forum, Tweet, profess on Facebook,
publish a MySpace bulletin, etc. and
let your Etsy support be known!

Below are some promotional images available to
copy+paste
or
click+print
that I've reposted for your convenience.

Click on the thumbnails to see the original sizes.

Thanks schugirl for this nice big sign all ready to
hang in your cubicle, on your car window, etc.c/o Etsy's nifty resource page

Don't have a printer? Don't fret! Here are some other cunning ways to broadcast your Etsy lovin' c/o this post:

Get an Etsy tattoo!
Dress your family in all orange. When you get weird looks, whisper "Etsy".
Support a new seller on Etsy Day! Buy an item from someone with no sales (you can find them on Pounce Undiscovered), and wish them a "Happy Etsy Day" in the Message to Seller field when you check out.
Tweet your endeavors via Twitter and make sure to add the hash tag #EtsyDay. (And send it to @aplusk. Let's get Ashton Kutcher's attention on Etsy Day. Ha! Mr. Most Twitter Followers.)

Okay, I think we're properly equipped to do this thing right. My first stop, Twitter. (Watch out Ashton, here we come!)

Okay now LET'S GET IT ON! Um... Ahem... So to speak...

Proceed and cause a stir,
Retro "Adding A Wave Or Two To The Water" Vertigo

They Don't Call Me "ROJA" For Nothin!

2009-04-12T18:18:00.003-05:00

It's nice to stumble upon a blog that mentions my shop. Who knew?! :D

Goog Oracle #C: Always the Oddity

2009-03-31T00:28:00.006-05:00

Would someone like to explain to me what this all means?!

Sincerely Reeking of Vick's Vaporub,
Retro "A Bit Off" Vertigo

Rainbow Treasury

2009-03-29T10:07:00.005-05:00

After a fairly lackluster week of few sales and taking care of a very sick 3 year old at home, this morning brought a welcome surprise. A treasury feature!

Click the image to see the full treasury!

Thanks dafnadagan for including my pinup in this very technicolor collection and ending my week on a happy note!

Looking up,
Retro "Vacuuming In Heels & Pearls" Vertigo

Saponificatious Enthusiasm

2009-03-28T18:42:00.006-05:00

It's immensely cool when a satisfied customer shares their enthusiasm after purchasing an item from my shop. The lovely Miss Britton of Gloilocksandbody was kind enough to send this fantastic self portrait -- which completely made my day.
Holy gorgeous! That kitschy little (gigantic) owl has never looked better. I love that there are a handful of old school folks out there willing and interested in giving a minute or two of their time to spread some lovin and appreciation. I don't think I could ever get tired of that.

Cheers,
Retro "Bet Yer Arse It's HUGE" Vertigo

It's Official!

2009-03-27T11:12:00.005-05:00

I'm incorporated! Isn't it exciting? Yup, got the letter from the Secretary of State delivered to me personally!

Errmmm...
Huh.
Hmmm...
Okay, now I've got to go figure out why this matters.

Sock it to ya,
Retro "El-El Si!" Vertigo

Well, Since You Asked So Nicely...

2009-03-23T16:33:00.003-05:00

...here I am!

Keep calm and carry flan,
Retro "Matching Carpet/Curtains" Vertigo

Cranial Fixation

2009-03-18T22:25:00.022-05:00

Okay, I've got to get this off my chest before it bores a hole so deep in my conscience that I have no hope of returning from paranoia land... I've discovered an disconcerting theme in my shop recently. There appears to be a bit of a female-noggin fixation happening. In fact, it's starting to freak me out a little. Do you think I may need to seek out professional help with this? Just look at the photographic evidence here!

Well, I dunno about you, but I'm sufficiently spooked now...

Taking 2 Asprins,
Retro [Insert "Twilight Zone Theme Song" Here] Vertigo

Why don' cha?

2009-03-17T10:34:00.005-05:00

sAll GREEN items in my shop are 20% OFF -- today only! (Okay, I'll throw in the REDHEADED items as well!!!) Just add the code "SPD09" to your order and you'll receive your 20% off your item (not including S&H) as an instant PayPal refund. PLUS, the EVERY SHIPMENT will include a free vintage token of my appreciation!

So pull yer socks up and git shoppin!

Stay easy,
Retro "Redser" Vertigo

Goog Image Oracle #2

2009-03-13T20:14:00.011-05:00

And...done.

Have a lovely weekend kitties.

XOXO,
Retro "You Can Call Me Ma'am" Vertigo

My Version of Morning Wood

2009-03-07T11:45:00.004-06:00

GOOD morning!

This morning I awoke, after having a very vivid dream about selling a candy dish on Etsy. I eagerly went to my laptop to see if it had been true (since yesterday I dreamed I'd made a sale, and it was true), but no such luck. It was still there. I then sipped my coffee and casually turned my attention to email -- which brought an incredible surprise! One of my items was featured!

The feature was only published an hour or two ago. Since then, not only has my site tripled in hits, I've sold a lot of my stuff!!!

I guess my dream wasn't that far off after all...

Gratefully yours,
Retro "I better get my ass to work!" Vertigo

Goog Image Oracle: Volume 1

2009-03-06T22:30:00.005-06:00

That's all I wanted to say! Have a great weekend folks!!!

-RV

Gorgeous Handmade Goodies!!!

2009-03-04T23:37:00.004-06:00

Head over to Chocolate & Steel to get an eyeful of handcrafted goodness. (You may just even be rewarded for your efforts!)

Cheers,
RV

Does this make me an infrequent-lipstick-hetero?

2009-03-02T15:54:00.015-06:00

Though I'm far from butch, I'm not really what you'd call a girly-girl either. However the last 4 years of learning to be a Mommy to my very girly daughter has softened me (no pun intended) quite a bit.

Case in point: First off, aside from the unfortunate Chia Pet incident, I've become an avid potted plant caregiver. Secondly, as much as I've fought it's syrupy-sweet soaptasticness, I've come to terms with the fact that I really dig watching "Big Love" on HBO after all. And lastly, I'm slowly but surely approaching the acceptance of the colors pink and white in my life. (Though I *still* have a fair amount of difficulty stomaching beige...shutter to think...)

With that, please indulge this rare moment of girliness and sample some delicious sparkly bits care of the lovely and talented Honorary-Irish lass, Rachel, over at Balanced:

Oooh -- shiny AND flowery.

Those pearls would make your wrist look fabulously femme whilst baking cupcakes, mowing the lawn, or even while playing a round of tennis! And that's *not* a euphamism!

I'm going to have Rachel create a custom grill for me inspired by this bracelet design. Oh can you just imagine the elegance of my smile!? I'll be the envy of my entire coupon club!

Okay, okay, I think I've filled my girly quota for the day.

Oh wait, "Does my butt look big in this blog?"

Okay, NOW I've filled my girly quota for the day.

Stop by again soon. I may just have some freshly gelled aspic for you!

XOXO,
Retro Vivacious Vertigo