Hi [firstname],

Hi, I'm Suzanne, and I'm Notebook:'s new beauty director. On my way into the city yesterday I was reading a newspaper on the train. There was a story about make-up that went into some detail about women wearing outdated make-up or, as the story put it, who looked like "mutton dressed up as lamb". Older women, they said in the article, do themselves a great disservice when they wear winged eyeliner and outdated make-up in general, or any strong make-up for that matter, because it's "ageing".
I got out of the train, walked up to the street in the thick of afternoon peak hour and watched hundreds of women surging towards the station. I saw lots over 40, over 50, over 60 and do you know what occurred to me? It's not that they're wearing too much make-up - actually, it's often the case they're not wearing enough. One tired, make-up-free face after another walked by me and I honestly thought to myself, 'Imagine what a bit of blush and lippy could do?'.

Make-up moment

I really wish young people would stop telling older women how to do their make-up. There are no rules. Sure, all of us can make improvements, but if you've worn winged eyeliner all your life and that's how you feel comfortable, what's the matter with that? Nothing at all. For more ideas about eye make-up, why not try a dramatic smoky eye using Erin's step-by-step guide, on page 80 of our April issue.
Also, if you'd like to try new beauty products for Notebook: or have any beauty concerns you'd like advice on, from skin pigmentation to your hairstyle, we are looking for real women to feature in the magazine. You don't have to be a beauty queen to apply - we're looking to celebrate your inner and outer beauty, reflect your opinion and find the best products for you.
To apply click here or send us an email at feedback@notebookmagazine.com and be sure to include a recent, clear photographs of yourself in a well-lit space (one portrait and one full-length photo); your dress size/shoe size; height; state and suburb; phone number; email address and availability. (Please note incomplete applications will not be processed.)

Good things great and small

Did you know nurturing a bonsai from a seedling to maturity takes at least five years? Patience and persistence pays off for dedicated sisters Isavella and Paula Valsamis, who are continuing the art of bonsai their mother, Tina, taught them. Our writer Francesca met the pair at their nursery Bonsai and Beyond in Sydney's Balmain to see Isavella and Paula in their element - and came away with plenty of admiration for their work. To read Francesca's story, 'A love for small things', turn to page 187 of our April issue.

Living joy

Live like there is no tomorrow and dance like no one is watching! If you're looking for an activity that makes you feel great while improving your fitness, why not try a dance class, relax during a yoga session, or hit the surf? In this month's fitness article 'The joy workout', we show how taking a step towards your health can also benefit your mood and wellbeing. See page 86 of the April issue to get inspired.

Name and win

Here at Notebook: we're always looking for ideas on giving household items a new lease on life, so couldn't help but fall in love with the soft toys made from socks, gloves and stockings created by Japanese artist Miyako Kanamori. Her book Sock and Glove (Penguin, 2007) shows how to make your own, and we have three copies to give away. Simply name the two loveable characters that made an appearance in our March Calendar (page 20), and click here to enter.

Notebook: Newsletter

Have a happy and safe Easter break!