I am pleased to announce that I have finally found a new job that will give me more time to dedicate to this blog. I’m not sure who has missed it more: me, my fans or my mother.

Nonetheless, once the weather returns to the double digits, my trusty camera and I will make our way around this fair city to get some new shots of old things. Keep checking back! I’ve got a list of amazing places to photograph for you.

On a more selfish note…

My love for mid-century modern extends much further than this blog. It is my life. My house is a time capsule. My dishes are 40 years old. I listen to vinyl on the Silvertone. And my favorite clothing store is Halcyon Vintage.

Recently, it was brought to my attention that my favorite TV show, “Mad Men,” was holding a casting call for a walk-on role on the show. After the urging of many friends, I decided to throw my hat in the ring. In order to be considered to be part of the show, I have receive enough votes to be in the top 10 women.

Here’s where the shameless promotion comes in….I am asking everyone and their grandfather to vote for me and help spread the word. I promise if I get in I won’t let Richmond down!

You don’t have to sign up for anything to vote. Just simply click this link.

Here’s my photo of me lounging on my MCM couch! And thanks in advance!

Tucked away in the quiet Bellevue community is a little restaurant gem called Dot’s Back Inn. From the outside it isn’t much, but once you step inside your dining experience is instantly transformed to 1945. Recently featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Dot’s has the true charm of an old diner without all the glaring chrome you see in some of the big-box re-creations (like River City Diner and Silver Diner).

I recently had the opportunity to serve as the hair and make-up artist for a photo shoot at Dot’s with local pin-up photographer Ginger Curry-Richmond of 422 Studio. Together we transformed two women into 1940s pin-up girls — like those that grace the walls of Dot’s Back Inn.

So, instead of showing you boring pictures of the restaurant, which can be found by doing a Google search, I’m going to present to you two hot ladies in one hot diner!

As the menu states, Dot’s pays tribute to every woman who’s ever worked in the food-service industry. Former owner Frances “Cookie” Giannini named the place after her aunt, Dot, who was a waitress for 50 years.

Old black-and-white photos, advertisements and newspapers decorate the walls above the wooden booths. Yellow and green diamond-patterned linoleum covers the floor. Above and behind the bar is a wide collection of antique radios, glass and kitsch.

In addition to having great food and a great atmosphere, Dot’s is one of the few places you can enjoy spirits and a smoke no matter where you sit.

So next time you’re looking to add a little mid-century atmosphere to your dining experience, stop by 4030 Macarthur Ave. and tell them Aunt Dot sent you!