How to Get Scuff Marks Off Patent Leather

I got black scuff marks on my nude pumps, and I was curious about how to remove the UGLY.

After some quick internet research, I tried a couple of suggestions.

1)  I took a regular eraser to the smudges.  Sites suggest rubbing only in one direction, but I went crazy going back and forth.  Most of the marks came off with just the eraser.

2)  Next, I took a q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol and wiped at the remaining scuff marks. It totally did the trick. I also used it on some scuff marks that I hadn't erased, and the alcohol actually seemed more effective than the eraser.

3)  I used tissue smeared with some petroleum jelly, and it was just ok.  Even if the petroleum jelly is not used to clean up the scuff marks, it's an excellent way to polish up the patent leather after rubbing off the scuff marks. It brings back the shininess to the surface.

Here are some other methods that I didn't try:

*Use non-acetone nail polish remover with a cotton ball to polish off the marks. (I get really paranoid that using nail polish remover would damage the color or surface so I opted out of this recommendation.)

*Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with warm water on a cloth. Scrub the stains.

*Use dish soap and water on a cloth to rub the scuff marks.

Tried any of the above solutions?  Do you have your own?  

theSkimm: The Easy + Quick Way to Understand the News

Welcome to...

It's described as "the daily newsletter that simplifies the headlines for the educated professional who knows enough to know she needs more. We do the reading for you and explain it with fresh editorial content, breaking down what you need to know to start the conversation."

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theSkimm reads more like an Elle Woods' courtroom argument than the actual news.  

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Examples of language from yesterday's Skimm include an ecstatic "Hooray!" and a reference to the Senate being "in sesh". 

The writing may make sense since the founders of this company are two women in their 20s. But before you scoff at the material presented, know that these young ladies were also producers for NBC news-working in breaking news, political news, and documentaries. 

Sure, the "simplified" version of the news is targeted toward women. But I'm not offended that a Skimm breaks down the headlines for us. I actually find the literary style helps me understand what's going on in the world. Which is theSkimm's goal.  To keep us reading and informed without the frustration of deciphering convoluted news stories.  It's written in a familiar and relatable tone that I'm certain even men would enjoy.

So what are you waiting for?  Sign up at theSkimm to receive your daily e-mail newsletter and catch up with what's going on in the world!

Their tweets are pretty entertaining and informative, too.
Follow @theskimm to get in on the fun.

Is the Pomsky the Unicorn of Dogs?

I received this photo from my friend Kathy yesterday, and yes, I did want to cry.

Could this be true? A NYC apartment-friendly cutie patootie that looks like a puppy all of its life?

Then I thought about the breeding. Ah! I always wonder how they get super odd pairings together (a Pomeranian with a Husky! It's like Shaq and that one girlfriend he had...)

Oh yes, her.

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I also worry about what possible health problems may be created for these little guys. :(

Then, I ran across this web page that stated that the photo is actually one of a Finnish Lapphund puppy.  A what?  I had no idea, but the breed sounded big.

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Eh, not too big.  This type of dog is a medium breed of the Spitz family.

Train Your Brain

We were dealing with mold in our old apt. One of the symptoms of mold exposure is a deterioration in brain functions. Our doctor recommended the website Lumosity as a way to train our brains. The brain games are pretty fun! http://www.lumosity.com/

image via lumosity.com

Good Guide

Do you ever wonder what's actually in the products that you purchase?

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With all of these health articles urging us to avoid toxic ingredients such as phthalates and parabens, I tend to stick to containers that boldly state that they don't contain those toxins.  But sometimes it's not easy to find all that information. And even if you do, it can be difficult to figure out which ingredient is unhealthy. Wouldn't it be great to have a guide that shows how good a product really is for you?

That's where GoodGuide comes in!  You can use the website or download the app.  You can search for a specific product or scan its barcode.  A rating system will pop up that informs you of how healthy, green, and socially responsible it is. Not only will you be provided a list of ingredients, but you get a recommendation of better product options!

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  It's not just for beauty products!  Products range from food, personal care, apparel, and more!

My experience:

I downloaded the app onto my Android Samsung Galaxy 3.  Smooth process!

It did not have my JellyBelly's via barcode, but it had them listed via search online. It had data on the environment and social aspect, but nothing on health. Don't worry. I think I can figure out on my own that they aren't that great for my health.

My next test was scanning the bar code for my Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-hour foundation.  All the information immediately popped up on my phone.  I was shocked to see how poor the ratings were for the health, environment and social aspects.  With the brand taking pride in its natural ingredients, I didn't expect to see ingredients of "medium concern" in it.  I absolutely LOVE that they provide alternatives for it.

Have you tried this app?