Pacifica Makes Wonderfully Evocative Perfumes, Soaps, Candles & Body Butters - And They're Affordable Too!

Now that the warm (read: hot) weather has arrived, you'll want to change up your scents from the heavy winter notes to something a little lighter, a little more summery.

Pacifica is one of those companies that you can count one for lovely fragrances that are affordable and that come in many forms, so if you prefer a a solid perfume or spray, soap, body butter or a candle, you can cater it to your lifestyle - a little spritz there, a little rub there.

What I like most about Pacifica is their attitude towards fragrance - it should be fun and wearable. As well, they are socially responsible - Pacifica products are free of parabens, propylene glycol, phthalates and lead wicks, and they do not use any animal ingredients including beeswax.

Their scents are wonderfully playful and actually quite sexy.

One of my favourites is Lotus Garden. It is quite floral, with green and citrus notes. It is light and clean but has depth and body too. I like it so much I got it in the perfume, body butter, soap and soy candle! It's one of those scents that you can wear everyday and never tire of.

Egyptian Bergamot Rose is another wonderfully evocative scent. Blends of amber, rose and orange create a heady mix of sexy hippie chic that is bound to delight you. French Lilac is a classic scent and brings to mind a garden in full bloom. And I'm loving the fresh boldness of Tunsian Jasmine, which is wonderfully surprising and complex.

Of course this is just a small sampling of their scents. As you can see, they have a lot to choose from - florals, fruits, herbs and spices and woods & resins! For my friends who love vanilla, they'll be devouring Vanilla Vera Cruz and for something out of the ordinary, try Thai Lemongrass!

I love that you can choose your perfume in a spray or solid form (I prefer spray, my Mom prefers solid) and that you can layer your favourite scent by adding their luxurous body butters. Shea butter, almond and safflower oils nourish and soften your skin while a soft fragrance lingers throughout the day - pure delight!

And their soy candles fill the room with the scent of your choice, but don't overpower even the smallest of spaces. They are handmade at the Portland, Orgeon factory and give a long-lasting, clean burn. These are candles that you can feel good about using - and they look good too.

And that's one thing I want to mention. Pacifica's packaging is just gorgeous - no gift wrap required! In fact, you'll want to keep the boxes and use them to store other things. I'm using my soap box to hold business cards on my desk. It's b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l!

So check out all of the Pacifica products and change up your scents for summer. Not only is it a lot of fun, it's actually affordable too!

Discover Jessica E. Handmade Jewelry

I am old-fashioned in a lot of ways. I say please and thank you, I get dressed up to go out for dinner and I think wearong a hat and gloves is timeless and ladylike.

That's why I am swooning over my new Jessica E. handmade necklaces. That, and they are freakin' beautiful!

Made from old posters and retro images and then set on a piece of sturdy glass, these gems bring a timelessness to any outfit. A stainless steel chain allows for simplicity as well as showcasing the pendant.

Blue Moon is perfect for my amazing friend Jill because she's a songwriter, cabaret singer and all around great ol' fashioned girl (she even found a chivalrous husband who walks ladies across the street and to the subway!). The midnight blue background and pale moon harkens back to a simpler time filled with long cigarette holders, long glances and even longer nights filled with drink and passion.

For me, the Adler typewriter is just a perfect. As you'll see from our collection of typewriters and being half of a couple who writes day and night, it really is one of the most menaingful pieces I've ever had.

The pumpkin background and old font gives me pleasure in its simplicity and the idea of finally being able to carry around a typewriter is a joy that cannot be expressed merely in words.

And there are so many that I love - the Japanese paper designs (chiyogami) are exquisite and are both retro and yet right up to the moment, don't you think? Boston's Best Cream Pie is awfully cute and Orchid Springs Bath Salts brings about a great sense of calm for me.

And the fact that each piece is made by hand in Toronto?

It doesn't get any better than this.

Jessica E. handmade jewelry - jewelry with heart and style.

Pep Up Your Summer Party with Fun Snacks From Enjoy Life Foods, Bob's Pickle Pops, Doctor Kracker and Ecobooma Jenkins Jellies!

Anyone can go out and get chips and dip for a party - why not make your snacks spectacular and something that your guests will remember.

Try these fun products and see just how quickly you get RSVP's for your next bash!

Enjoy Life Foods

As you may have noticed, just as more people have become allergic to peanuts, a significant portion of the population is gluten-intolerant. In fact, I have a handful of friends that avoid gluten if at all possible.

That's why I stock up on Enjoy Life products when I'm having people over. They have a number of products to choose from that are gluten-free as well as not containing any of the 8 most common allergens.

Their cookies and snack bars are great to have on hand. Snickerdoodle and chewy chocolate chip cookies satisfy your sweet tooth, while very berry and caramel apple snack bars satisfy your hunger - without having to suffer any side effects that come with gluten intolerance.

I always want to have something for everyone at my parties - and now with Enjoy Life Foods, I can.

Bob's Pickle Pops

There is nothing better on a hot day than a popsicle to cool you down. But why get regular ol' orange when you can have Pickle Pops?!

These will get people talking at your party! Not only are they good for you, they are a wonderful treat for those of us who love pickles, olives, capers and the like.

You can order yours here, but be warned - they are highly addictive! I consumed almost all of them before anyone else had a chance at them...

Doctor Kracker

Party after party, people roll out the same damn crackers - table water, cream and cheese. Now really, there is nothing wrong with this. They are all fine choices, but I say it's time to get a little more inventive, a little more bold in what you serve at your next shindig!

That's why I am rockin' Doctor Kracker flatbreads.

These dense, organic and artisan-baked flatbreads have what the company calls "uber crunch," thanks to being jam-packed with tons of organic whole-grains and seeds. And because they are thick and crunchy, you can use them with spreads, pates, sliced meats, sliced vegetables, jams (see below), and any topping you like - there's nothing that these krackers can't hold!

There is a wide selection to choose from - Klassic 3 Seed, Pumpkin Cheddar, Seeded Spelt, Sunflower Cheddar and Seedlander.

So amp up your party with interesting choices - and Doctor Kracker.

Ecobooma Jenkins Jellies

When having people over, I often put together a bamboo wood tray of crackers, pate, assorted charcuterie, cheeses, fruit, etc.

Recently, I have found that adding jams, jellies and chutneys really elevates the meat and cheese and suddenly your guests simply can't get enough.

One of my favourite finds is Ecobooma Jenkins Jellies. Homegrown and homemade, these wonderfully fragrant and bright concoctions are made with local, organic ingredients from Los Angeles, California.

They come in 8 oz. or 16 oz. glass jars that are packaged using recycled products and "often reusing decorative touches or samplings from the garden."

I got Sassy Satsuma Marmalade, which not only received rave reviews and standing ovations at my last party, but the following evening I glazed chicken and ham with it and my fella and I oohed and ahhed at how incredibly posh and decadent it had made our dinner.

Not only are these jellies made with great love and care, but they go towards a good cause as well. A portion of Ecobooma's profits will be donated to The Bruce Paltrow Oral Cancer Fund and EMA (Environmenal Media Association).

Fresh & Glowing Skin is Easy, Thanks to dermaglow!

Because of my hectic lifestyle, the toxins in the air and the continuous products that I am testing on my skin, my face can get a little rough around the edges at times.

I've heard people raving madly about the incredible results after using dermaglow for years now, and now after trying them myself, I see why.

The dermaglow NUVECTIN line of anti-aging skin care products works by "combining skin firming agents, hydrators and skin eleasticizers with the most exciting anti-aging discovery of the decade - the power of peptides."

What this means for you is that those fine lines, wrinkles, bags, dark circles, age spots, rough, dry skin texture and uneven skintone that you thought you had to live with for the rest of your life will now be banished - alongside your fur coats, sun-in and bad-ass boyfriends.

I used Retinol-PX for a number of weeks and found the results to be just as dramatic as people had told me it would be. While it is clinically proven to improve a number of factors of your skin, it is now Stephanie proven as well. My skin suddenly looked younger and more luminous and it felt better too - hydrated and nourished all day long. And both me and my pocketbook appreciate that a little goes a long way - I still have lots left despite using it every morning.

Another product I am psyched about is from the dermaDNA line, which you can learn more about here. Their Cellular Repair Eye Treatment gives you not only instant, but a "long-term" reduction in the appearance of dark circles and puffy under-eye bags. And I didn't believe it until I saw it.

I noticed results right away. After long, sleepless nights of anxiety about my upcoming book launch, meeting hourly deadlines and rapidly trying to finish an almost 500 page book for my food book club, my eyes had certainly seen better days and I was looking pretty haggard - until this miracle treatment came along!

And dermaglow's RADIANCE line offers fantastic facial rejuvenation in many forms. I went with the Microdermabrasion System, which is a 2-step process and is surprisingly gentle (I had envisioned a tomato red and raw face!), yet completely effective.

What is so revolutionary about this system is that it penetrates to the deepest layers of the skin, so you are changing things beneath the surface while the outer layer transforms from blah to oh-my-god! There are lightening and brightening properties built right in, so your skin not only evens out in tone and texture, but it suddenly seems like you are lit from within. And all at a much cheaper price than having it done at an office or spa - which, in these difficult economic times means that you can look good and not break the bank.

dermaglow makes me look younger and better than I really am. I don't mind the lie so much

It's available at Shoppers Drug Mart, PharmaPlus, London Drugs and Save On Foods locations across Canada and at Pharmaprix Jean Coutu, Familiprix and Essaim in Quebec.

Flojos Sandals are the Perfect Summer Accessory - Especially in this Heat!

Gosh it's been hot lately - sweltering, in fact.

And there's nothing worse on a humid day than having hot, feet. If you are still wearing your ballet flats and high heeled pumps, it time to switch to pretty and comfortable sandals.

Flojos, a company that has been around and making sandals and flip flops since 1979, embraces the California beach style in their designs.

Easy on the eyes and your feet, Flojos come in styles for the whole family - women, men and kids.

I love the variety of colours, styles and designs available - you'll want to get more than one pair, I'm sure.

I am currently rockin' my new pair of Paige in black. As you may know from reading my posts, I am most certainly a wedge girl and for me, the higher the better.

These 2 1/2-inch wedges give me the height I want and make them stand out from the usual flat flip flop designs that me and every other girl wears constantly during the summer. And the silver studded strap gives them a little oomph, a little edge to my outfits.

One thing you've gotta know about these puppies is that thanks to a padded footbed and material that feels like ultrasuede, is that they are comfortable.

And really, as much as you want to look good, isn't this becoming just as important to you as you get older (Recently at my book launch, my friend Ava was walking around with her shoes in her hands. They were so painful that her husband had to help her off with them. And my Mom wore new shoes that were a teeny too big so she hobbled around that night, walking very, very slowly)?

Now, there was another pair of Flojos that I was looking at...

Get yours now and enjoy the summer without the blisters, aches and pains for once!

Green Your Home in a Snap with WoolDryerBalls.com, Glass Dharma Glass Straws and Bona Hardwood Floor Mop!

Every day I strive to do something else around the house to lessen my impact on the earth. And while I know there is much to be done, but each little thing adds up and makes a difference.

And they don't cost a fortune either! Woo woo!

Here are some wonderful products to help you save the earth one day at a time:

WoolDryerBalls.com

If you are using dryer sheets each time you do a wash, just think about the piles and piles of debris that you have accumulated! There's no reason for this, especially when you've got the beautifullly handmade Wool Dryer Balls that keep your clothes from being full of static and hair and even softens them!

They work the same as dryer sheets - only better. The balls come as a set of 6 and each dry, just toss 4-6 of them in and see the difference it makes:

"When you use 4 balls in your dryer, you can cut an average of 25% off your large load drying time and cut around 35-45% off your small loads!! The balls circulate and separate the clothing and get the warm dry air right down to the core of the laundry load! The more you have the faster the drying time, softer softness and money saved. They speed up the drying time and soften up by gentle friction of the felted wool fibers against your clothing fibers. The rubber/plastic dryer balls that are out there can be harsh and I have found them to tear at towels, and hems," says the creator.

These handmade beauties don't clang around loudly like those plastic ones and you can reuse them over and over again. They will start to pill, but your clothes won't, so be sure to use them everytime you dry!

I think these are a fantastic find and I love that they are handmade. Get yours now!

GlassDharma Glass Straws

A friend of mine drinks from a straw because she is allergic to severly cold drinks. My Mom enjoys drinking from a straw instead of a can or bottle - she's so ladylike and British in more ways than one! And I simply like it because I find I can drink waay more water that way.

But the environmental consequences of throwing away all of those plastic straws is huge. So what's a girl to do?

Thank goodness for the smart thinking folks at GlassDharma They've made ones that are reusable, sustainable and easy to use and clean - just rinse through and reuse!

You can actually use them for both hot and cold drinks and they are dishwasher safe.

They are handmade by glassblower David Leonhardt and come with a LIFETIME GUARANTEE AGAINST BREAKAGE, which is out-of-this-world fantastic, as are his straws.

They come in different sizes and styles so be sure to get a bunch to keep at the ready!

I'm keeping mine on the kitchen counter so that every time I reach for a drink, I'll be sure to use it. It's a wonderful invention that it now as much of my daily routine as my morning cup of joe - which I now drink with my glass straw!

Homemade and made well - you can't ask for anything more than that!

Bona Hardwood Floor Mop

For years I've been using the same kind of mop that my Mom used and probably my Grandma too. You know the one - the brightly coloured handle with a yellow or orange sponge on the end. Mine had become so beyond that the prongs that held the sponge on had completely worn out and I'd been holding the sponge on with elastic bands.

I know -completely embarrassing, but I didn't know what else to do. I could have gone out and got another one, the same one but new, but I wanted something better. Waaay better.

And that's when I found my Bona Hardwood Floor Mop.

There is much to love about this baby!

First of all, there is a long, flat microfiber cleaning pad that not only traps all of the dirt, but gets into places my mop never could and where I would have to hand wash corners and places like under our night tables, under the kitchen table and chairs and under the couch and theater chairs. As well, it's super absorbent, can be used on many types of floors other than hardwood (I use it on our tile floors in the kitchen and bathroom), and it can be washed up to 300 times, which means you are not adding to our landfills with those disposable floor wipes or sponges that don't break down!

I like the long handle, which means I no longer have to crouch to get in and around things and though it is a little bit heavy when you have a full cartridge of cleaner attached, it is completely easy and comfortable to use. I also love the fact that you can spray the cleaner with just a squeeze of the convenient lever right in the mop - no getting your hands wet and dirty anymore! Hallelujah!

The Hardwood Floor Cleaner honestly makes the floors look much better than they've ever looked - they are old and worn, but look smashing once I've cleaned with my Bona mop! And as the company says, "Unlike all-purpose cleaners, this cleaner will not dull your floor finish or leave an oily residue." And it picks up way more stains, scuffs and hair than my old mop. Waaay more.

Not only is the cleaner non-toxic, it's environmentally friendly and GREENGUARD certified for indoor air quality and also the more stringent certification for the Children & Schools program.

So you can see how good it is for you and your home. You can feel good using and because we have our lovely Cosmo, it's important not to have chemicals on the floor. And here's the bonus - our wonderful place used to take about 30 minutes to mop as there is hardwood in almost all our rooms.

Now it takes only 7.

I have already recommended the mop to friends, family and colleagues and I've got my neighbours asking to try it out.

It's that good. And the best part? I actually enjoy doing the floors now.

Can you say that about your current mop? Didn't think so.

Get a Bona Hardwood Floor Mop for yourself and see how much fun and easy it can actually be!

Kimiko Brings Skincare and Cosmetics Together

Chances are, you are madly trying to look good AND look younger. So you spend a fortune on skin care products and then you spend another small fortune on cosmetics.

Why not get a product that offers both in one, such as the revolutionary line of Kimiko?

Kimiko's Treatment Makeup Line absolutely shows immediate results - just look at these before and after photos!

I saw the results myself with Kimiko's fabulous Sheer Tint and Lip Plumper.

My friend Jill and I are crazy about lip tints as we don't have to spend all evening reapplying and because we both are in front of crowds often (Jill is a cabaret singer and songwriter, I talk about writing), our lips stay plump and richly coloured all night long!
Kimiko's Sheer Tint and Lip Plumper is one of the very best I've ever tried. One, because the colour goes on light and sheer, so you can build it up as much as you want without looking like the Joker. With berry and pomegranate extracts built you, you get added antioxidant protection. After applying the colour, follow with the plumper. You'll see instant results due to dehydrated collagen molecules and your lips will feel - and look - moist as well, which I've never found with plumpers previously. And there's no tingling or burning sensations either, which I truly appreciate!

Another truly innovative product is the Lifting Puff Blush. This blush not only adds lush colour to your cheeks, but works on lifting and firming your skin! Why are you applying a cream AND blush, when you can do it all with the amazing Lifting Puff Blush?

And to keep your dark circles, fine lines and puffiness at bay, you've got to try The Multi-Tasker Treatment Concealer! This is truly one of those items that once you start using it, you are dedicated for life. The results are just too incredible.

Renuva-Eyebright goes to work on relieving you of those dark circles (it's not your fault your favourite band was in town last night and they didn't hit the stage until 1 a.m. and you had an 8 a.m. conference call at the office this morning), Hydra-Firmalift smooths your fine lines and Ani-Puff Rescue+ reduces that puffiness that has never seemed to recede - until now. And wait until you see the light-reflecting properties that transform your tired look to instantly rejuvenated and exhilerated - it's simply amazing!

As you can tell, I'm now a Kimiko fan and true believer. I've seen the results and I look better than ever.

Isn't that what you want from your cosmetics?

Check out the whole line and totally revolutionize your makeup routine!

Get Your Dad Cool Stuff This Father's Day With Badger Balm, Wear Your Music, Saxx Apparel, DennyMike's and ChiWalking!

There are a lot of gift guides out there to help you get something great Father's Day this year.

What makes the knack one different is that I sought out products that perhaps you might not think are very "Dad." We are conditioned to think that all days like to fish, barbecue and fix cars, but I really don't think that's the case. I think fathers are as diverse as moms and not all mom's spend time baking, sewing or shopping.

So here is a list that's a little different, a little off the map and I think, way more fun.

Enjoy!

Stephanie Dickison
Publisher & Editor - the knack

Badger Balm Certified Organic Sore Joint Rub

If you Dad's like my Dad, he does more as he gets older, not less. Perhaps it's that he realizes that time is passing quickly and he doesn't want to waste a minute of it. Everyday he's out walking, shopping, gardening, raking - active all the time, all day long even if he's achy and sore.

That's why I'm giving him Badger Balm Certified Organic Sore Joint Rub.

Complete with Arnica Montana and Black Pepper Supercritical CO2 extracts, it eases everyday aches and pains while moisturizing the skin. You can even use it on bruises and sprains!

It gently warms the skin upon application and it has a pleasant, spicy scent thanks to the use of essential oils. What I really like about it is that it goes to work quickly, but contains no harmful ingredients - only USDA Certified Organic and naturally processed, chemical-free ingredients.

Now finally I can take care of my Dad like he's taken care of me all of these years.

Wear Your Music Guitar Bracelet

Does your Dad like to rock out? I know a lot of fathers that can't get enough of Rock Band and who spend entire weekends downloading music from their past.

So give your Dad the Wear Your Music Guitar String Bracelet. You don't have to worry about whether it will fit or not because it's one-size-fits-all. Made from real guitar strings donated from over 150 artists such as Eric Clapton and Jack Johnson, you are giving both a piece of rock 'n roll history as well as beautiful jewelry - it's a 2-in-1 gift!

The bracelets come in a number of different styles and colours (I got Rock America) and because they are unisex, you should be sure and get yourself a bunch as well - I did.

Not only do these bracelets make awesome gifts, a percentage of all profits are donated to charities that support music, so you are giving both to your Dad and to others this Father's Day.

Doesn't that feel good?!

Saxx Apparel Underwear

Personally, I could not give my Dad underwear. That's just waaaay too intimate for us, but I know a lot of my friends rely on giving socks, ties and underwear each year and their Dad's come to expect it. I think it's kind of sweet, actually.

But why get something ordinary from the department store, when you can get Saxx Apparel Underwear!

The Everyday line comes in a medium-weight cotton/spandex blend that is made for the ultimate in comfort. What is so unique about this underwear is that it is made with a "performance pouch" that "prevents testicle contact," which means that Dad can finally breathe easy - everywhere. As well, elastic is used on the bottom of the leg, which prevents it from riding or rolling up.

It may seem like small things, but boy, what a difference it will make - and something that Dad can truly appreciate.

Also be sure to check out the Bamboo and Performance lines or all the lines here.

DennyMike's Cue Stuff Inc.

Your Dad doesn't have to barbecue or be "King of the Grill" to enjoy DennyMikes.

In fact, Sunday roast chicken dinner just got a whole lot better thanks to Chick Magnet, an awesome rub that totally transforms chicken. We tried it here at home and agreed it was the best roast chicken we'd ever had! And Pixie Dust is a great all-around rub that you can use on practically anything. I'm doing a beef roast with it tonight...

I love the vinegar-based Carolina-Style Sauce, as it's not like anything else I've seen before. I'm telling you - vinegar and pork is one of the most pleasurable combinations in the world. And for all of the heat lovers out there, Hot 'n Nasty is a must-have item!

The Full BBQ Gift Set is a great way to indulge Dad this Sunday. It's got it all - the rubs and the sauces that take your dinner from "Huh," to "WOW!" with so little effort, it's unbelievable.

Shop all of the products here and make Dad's day with tasty treats that you can all enjoy!

ChiWalking

My Dad is a real walker. Everyday he walks for about 3 hours.

This Father's Day, I'm giving him ChiWalking: The Five Mindful Steps for Lifelong Health and Energy. It covers the 5 steps to walking to great health - get aligned, engage your core, create balance, make a choice and move forward.

Though we all walk each and everyday, are we really mindful of it? Are we really getting the most from our walks? This book shows the mental, emotional and physical benefits of ChiWalking, based on the core principles of T'ai Chi. Hey, this is not only a great gift for Father's Day, but for those wanting to improve their health and general well-being.

And if you're father is a runner, be sure to get him a copy of ChiRunning: A Revolutionary Approach to Effortless, Injury-Free Running, which will not only show how much you care, butwill increase both his health and energy! In fact, I know so many runners, that this is going to be a regular present that I give throughout the year!

A book about improving your health is just about one of the nicest presents you can give, don't you think?

You Are Going to Love the Clothes At LIJAStyle!

I have realized something about clothing - you don't need much, but you do need pieces that make a statement no matter what you pair them with.

And I found all of that at LIJAStyle.com.

Comfortable, fashionable clothes that stand out from the rest, LIJA is one of those companies that once you find, you cling to for the rest of your days!

These are clothes that you can enjoy and really live in. LIJA says:

"Our clothes are designed for the woman who embraces life and is inspired by possibilities. She puts her heart, mind and soul into everything she pursues and believes the greatest achievement in life is to realize her full potential. Her clothes reflect her determined nature, and personal dedication to quality, grace and style."

What I love most about LIJA is that each piece has a little detail, a little something that makes it special and unique, all the while being super comfortable enough to wear out to dinner or for a walk around the park.

Take my Lux Knit Idol Vest in beautiful Zephyr, for example.

This thick, comfy, cozy 100% cotton zip-up has lovely detailing - pintucks at both front and back, snap closure pockets and ribbing on the hem and armhole. This is no ordinary cover-up - this is a fashion must-have!

And check out my gorgeous Lux Knit Primadonna Pullover! Sculpted and defined, this top can take you from the movies to drinks and all the way to brunch the next day (and because it's 100% cotton, you can wash and wear it as much as you like)! The mid-length sleeves are perfect for days like today and accent the wide neck and fold over collar, complete with drawstring. I love the silhouette it creates and it is wonderful to be able to layer at this time of year when the days are warm and nights are cool.

LIJA has looks for every lifestyle and activity - Golf, Active, Tennis and Lesiure - Collection One and Collection Two.

So get your key pieces at LIJA this summer and finally have a wardrobe that you look - and feel- good in!

China Glaze Is The Must-Have Accessory for the Summer!

Luscious nail lacquers in the most amazing colours that go one with just a few swipes and only one coat - China Glaze is a must-have this summer!

What sets China Glaze apart from the rest is that they actually use China clay in their formulation, so that you get a thick coat that stays put and lasts. They are free of DBP/Toluene and added Formaldehyde and it doesn't thicken in the bottle like those other brands, so you never have to worry about adding thinner!

They come in a variety of crèmes, shimmers, iridescents, pearls, glass-flecks and metallic options and so many incredible colour collections that you'll definitely want to stock up on a bunch!

To help make it easier, why not get a box of exciting colours?

I am loving the bright, glittery look of the Summer Days collection! For my book launch tonight, I am wearing Cherry Pie, a lovely medium coral with tons of glimmer to add a little Hollywood glitz to my outfit! Orange Marmalade is an incredibly flattering orange, for those of us that can't usually pull off that colour and Raspberry Festival is a hot red that makes me think of Rita Hayworth and the like. The magenta-ish colour of Strawberry Fields is a great choice for this season's wardrobe and for added drama, Grape Juice and Watermelon Rind will get you noticed!

I am also swooning over the Romantique collection! It comes in 2 palettes - Cool and Warm. I got the Cool one because I love the lilacs and blue-greens, and with my fair skin and blonde hair, it is just a natural match. And with names like Adore and Awaken, don't be surprised if your nails are the centre of attention.

China Glaze offers fantastic colours for the season in easy-to-use, fast-drying, long-lasting formulations.

Make your outfits pop this summer with China Glaze - I'm going to!

The Most Beautiful Shells Hold Organic Island's Lip Balm!

Talk about gorgeous!

Organic Island Australia has created the most beautiful casing for their lip balms - real beach shells. Using "washed up" and oxidized shells, this "packaging" is not only environmentally-friendly, but so unique and beautiful.

And there is a range to choose from - 6 different shells in various patterns, colours and sizes (the medium and large shells come complete with a mirror). And because no two shells are a like, each one that you get is yours and yours alone!

These little beach treasures have the sweetest little clasps and look beautiful whether they are in your purse or on your bedside table. And they come in a a little drawstring bag, so no need for gift-wrapping (another environmentally-savvy idea).

And let's talk about the lip balm itself - a blend of ingredients such as Certified Organic macadamia seed oil, mango seed butter, rosehip oil and pure vitamin E give you soft, smooth, supple lips. Just in time for summer!

I think Organic Island's Lip Balms make one of the most exquisite presents of all time.

And who says that you have to give them all away? Be sure to get a couple of these for yourself! I did!

It's All About the Sun with GM Collin, Smashbox & Xen-Tan!

My favourite look for summer? Tanned skin, white blonde hair (I lighten in spring and darken it come fall) and a high pair of wedges that make me feel like a million bucks.

The blonde hair and wedges, I can take care of, but my pale Scandanavian-type skin needs a little help!

Here are 3 products that will make you look sun-kissed, bronzed and down-right golden:

GM Collin

GM Collin's Self-Tanning Milk can be used on both the face and body and is suitable for all skin types. With Erythrulose, DHA, 7 Herbal Extracts (Chamomile, Arnica, Burdock, Nettle, Horsetail, Betula Alba and Sage),Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamins E & C, you are nourishing your skin as well as giving it a more sensual glow. It goes on easy and finishes with a soft feel and light scent.

I also like their After-Sun Cream which soothes and relieves your sun-soaked skin. I love the smell - warm sun and sand - how it feels thin as you apply it, but it's actually quite rich and it sinks in right away.

Xen-Tan

If you want the kind of tan that gets you noticed - that oozes of Baywatch beauties and demands wearing only white and pale colours - then Xen Tan's Deep Bronze is for you. It gives you that deep dark tan that you thought was only available via Belize or the Mediterranean!

What's great about this product is that becuase it has been developed with a time release ingredient, you only need to apply it once a week! Which is fantastic, because that means less time in the bathroom and more time on the boardwalk, dancefloor and/or the couch watching your favourite shows.

The other bonus is that because it is darkly coloured, you get immediate results and then within 3 hours, you'll have the long-lasting tan you've always dreamed of - with softer skin and without the streaks.

Oh and it smells like a chocolatey vanilla smoothie! Woo woo!

Smashbox

Smashbox is an amazing cosmetics company that is always developing new and innovative products.

One of their new items is the O-Bronze Intuitive Cheek Bronzer. What makes this so different from the rest is that it starts out white and then customizes itself to your skintone.

How it can possibly do this, I have no idea, but I am grateful to whoever thought this up. As a pale thing, applying bronzer has always been a challenge for me - often it's too brown or too orange.

Now it's just right!

Smashbox has packed this bronzer chock full with their exclusive goji-berry C-complex, gingko biloba and antioxidant-fighting pomegranante seeds, so you can feel good and look good.

There they go thinkin' of everything again. Gosh, I love these guys...

Pretty Up Your Computer with Accessories From tropicalhowie & Pat Says Now!

I imagine that you are on your computer about as much as I am every day.

Whether you are writing, emailing or designing, computers have become an integral part of who we are and how we spend our time.

For me, customizing my laptop and workspace is not only about expressing my style, but being able to enjoy my surroundings. I think that whether you work at home as I do, or at an office, you want to have pretty things around you and not just the boring, rote, standard issue that is required.

Blech!

tropicalhowie

To carry and protect my lovely laptop, I am rockin' it in a limited edition sleeve from tropicalhowie,

Not only are the designskickass, but they are really well made: A cushy, comfy, neoprene cover protects your precious computer, beautiful stitching that you'll ache for on your jeans and shirts, awesome, comfortable, clear zip pulls and a non-abrasive zipper make this the best sleeve around.

And it gets better! The tropicalhowie designs are ubercool, but it doesn't stop at just the outside - inside you get a little story about your design! I am swooning over my sleeve, The Taxi Ride, and inside is the most awesome little story about it (I want to share it with you, but I also don't want to spoil it!). Also included is that mine is 1 of 750. Once the design sells out, that's it. It is gone forever. Which I have to admit makes me feel good. It's not like everyone is going to have one. I certainly don't want that.

These sleeves arefanfreakintastic. The quality and thought that is put into each and every one is just amazing.

I'm thinkin' one in each design outta do it...

Pat Says Now

This funny-named Pat Says Now company should be more well-known because their styles are incredible! I mean, if you want a mouse that stands out from the crowd, this is the place to get it.

Just check out all the possibilities! It's actually hard to choose just one - I mean, Platinum is so pretty, Louis XIV is so baroque and yet up-to-date, Toy Boy is just plain fun (and a little naughty) and Polka Dot is bound to go with everything.

But I fell hard for Kokeshi. This cutie is not only sweet to look at, but it's a tiny little thing, so not only does it not take up a lot of space on your desktop, but it's great for traveling and commuting!

I like the idea of getting a couple of different designs, so that you can change it up at your desk and keep things exciting and looking good.

It's easy with all the cool mouse choices at Pat Says Now.

Jigsaw Health Complete Essential Daily Packets Gives You All the Vitamins You Need

My fella and I are like most of you. We lead crazybusy lives and in between running around, we try to eat well and live a healthy life.

But like most of you, we fail at getting enough sleep, remembering to take our vitamins at mealtimes and eating enough of the right foods to get us through our day.

And while vitamins are not the cure for all that ails us, I truly believe that they help to stave off colds and keep me going when all else fails.

But never before have I had vitamins like the ones at Jigsaw Health.

I love the idea of buying really good vitamins, but I have to admit that I usually get mine at the drugstore (on sale, if I can), while I pick up toilet paper, toothpaste, etc.

But we both take different ones, so each night we divvy up our own concoctions and sometimes we forget, sometimes we run out of one before the other - it's a whole thing.

But with the Jigsaw Complete Essential Daily Packets, it was soooo easy - just take a packet in the morning and a packet at night. I loved not having to worry about missing one or forgetting another. It was already all thought out for me! (They suggest taking each supplment on its own to make sure that your body can tolerate it. I cannot have fish oil, so I eliminated it from my daily doses).

The daily packets are designed for you and I - busy folks who want to live a long and healthy life with energy and verve! They contain all the essential ingredients to get you through the day and make you feel great - magnesium, calcium, vitamin B, antioxidants, multi mineral and omega-3 fish oil.

And both my guy and I felt a real difference, not only in the quality of the vitamins, but in our energy levels. We have both come to realize the power of magnesium, something that neither of us had taken before and how it is something that should be included in our daily regimen.

I know they may seem a little pricey, but think about all the different vitamins and minerals that you are purchasing, like I was - bottles and bottles of the stuff. The difference is not much. And when you see the immense difference in taking high quality vitamins, you'll realize that it's worth the little extra every month.

You'll save time and gain energy and feel good. Aren't those 3 things on your wish list?

Wishes granted.

Watergeeks Makes Impressive - and Innovative - Water Bottles

Now that buying bottles of water is verboten, you have to find a bottle that works for you and your lifestyle.

I have to say that those popular European ones that everyone is carrying are not for me. For one, they are really expensive. Two, they are awfully big, bulky and heavy even before you fill them, and three, though the myriad of designs of fun and cute, they rub off quickly, making your bottle look trashy and not at all classy.

That's why I was thrilled to learn about The Watergeeks Laboratories. Not only are their bottles good looking, but they come in a range of sizes with a host of options, so that you get the bottle that's right for you and not just some trendy one that will start to wear down soon after purchase.

I got one of their BPA Free Filtration Water Bottles, which removes chlorine and other contaminates from your water, so no matter where you fill up, you are guaranteed to be drinking safe, clean, healthy water.

The Filtered Sport Bottle is not only light to carry, but it actually fits in bike racks and car cup holders! It comes in 2 sizes, so you can get the one that is right for you and comes with 1 filter. The filter "removes 90% of chlorine, bad taste and odor, as well as a significant proportion of heavy metals, including lead, mercury, and copper." You can see your water being filtered as you drink it, which frankly, gives me great peace of mind as well as refreshment!

And the Insulated Stainless Steel Bottles are superior to the ones you're used to because it is double-walled, making it possible to carry either hot or cold drinks with you, which is great, don't you think? That means you can switch it up between your morning coffee and your afternoon water.

It is light and curvy, making it easy to hold onto (thank you!) and it is non-leaching and BPA-free, made with unlined 18/0, food grade stainless steel, unlike those other stainless steel bottles, so you can feel good and safe using this one. It comes in 4 colours, but that's not all - it comes with a removable tea strainer! How awesome is that?! I think that is so fantastic and so very innovative. I will be using that feature for sure!

Proceeds from the purchase of these items will go to The Tap Project, a campaign that supports UNICEF's global efforts to bring clean and accessible drinking water to millions of children around the world. So now you can have clean water and offer it to others across the globe.

Watergeeks rocks my world. I think it will rock yours too!

Fomato Cards Make Me Laugh

Talk about unique.

Fomato Cards are anything but ordinary.

Recently I got a bunch of their Birthday Cards and man are they funny. And a little strange.

Check out the Cheese card. Crazy, right? And then there's the Bakery, Low Expectations, Curing Pessimists, Geography, Tyrannical Rulers and Learn to be Dissatisfied cards.

Not only are these fantastic little stories enclosed in just a few pages, but they are humourous and unusual. The drawings themselves are endearing and colourful and there is so much detail. This isn't just a card that someone glosses over - this is a serious read and re-read kind of card.

And one of the best features is that the cards often continue over onto the back - which can make it hard to find a place to write a message or sign - and makes the adventure last just a little longer, thank goodness!

And the sweet little creatures that are featured on Fomato Cards can also be found on their awesome Pins, which you'll want to be sure to get a full assortment of!

Fomato is sure to delight and please you. I'm still giggling over their sayings and images - I can't wait to share the joy!