❈Sac Thrift Chick❈

T I've always wanted cherry-print curtains in my retro-styled kitchen. My narrow, corner kitchen window, however, does not work with most curtains. Hanging a sheer curtain panel with a tension rod was the best way to let light and airflow in while still providing privacy, but it left the window looking unfinished. I thought a valance would complete the look, but also knew I would either have to make it or cut a normal-sized kitchen valance in half to fit the small space. Then, while sorting clothes to give to charity, I came across my cherry-print skirt, size 3. Loving the print, but knowing I would likely never fit into the skirt again, I decided to turn into a window valance. Like many of my DIY projects, I made this one up as I went along, with basically no plan. Because I used sewing pins and skipped the actual sewing, crafting the valance was pretty simply.

I originally wrote the following article as an assignment for a client, but was a little surprised to discover the client didn't actually want me to name names -- advertisal relationships and all. Rather than rewrite an entire article to avoid offending a makeup line by stating the facts about its safety testing, I decided to throw it up on my blog. I also have another reason for sharing: The information I learned in my research made me examine the makeup I buy. With the selection of cosmetic lines that don't test on animals, there's really no reason I should be supporting a company that still tests on animals.  If you're looking for that perfect volumizing mascara or blemish-concealing BB cream, but want to ensure the product is cruelty-free, good news: As of 2014, over 1,000 beauty and personal care companies don't test on animals, according to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. The bad news is that some big-name brands still test