Get Stunning Results with PIXI by Petra Makeup!

These days, I want to look glam without having to spend too much time in front of the mirror.

I know it's a lot to ask for, but I can't help it. I want to be able to spend the day writing and then hop downtown to a luxe dinner with my fella or an evening out with my best friend. I want to be able to go from daytime to nighttime without too much fuss.

I found it all in PIXI by Petra!

Swedish makeup artists Petra Strand founded the company with her 2 beauty expert sisters 10 years ago. Their goal? To make multipurpose products that are formulated with top-quality, natural, beneficial ingredients.

Take the Illuminating Tint and Conceal, for example. I love the little rays of light that it creates with its gentle shimmer! And with the matching concealer in the cap and a good shot of moisturizer, this really is an all-in-one, throw-it-in-your-purse-and-get-on-with-your-day kind of thing.

It goes on light and stays put so you can look beautiful all day and not have to retouch a thing.

Phew!

Oh, and it gets better. It's got SPF 20, so you're protected, and there's vitamins and other beneficial ingredients in both the concealer and tint, so you're pampering your skin all the while.

See why it's my go-to makeup?

I like the Eye Beauty Kit idea because each kit contains 8 shades that are made to compliment, contrast and contour your eye. That means that I can glide the silky powder on without worrying about looking too garish or clubby. And whether you use it wet or dry, it doesn't crease. There are different colour sets to choose from. I got No. 14 Bittersweet Cacao which offers nice neutrals and nothing too disco-y.

And the Lip Booster is great fun! Not only does it look good, it smells faintly of candy floss, which makes me think of the Ex (Candian National Exhibition), which makes me think of fun, food and family, which is nice.

And though you might not notice when it first goes on, Lip Booster delivers really great, intense moisture, which is so rare in a gloss, don't you think? According to the company it improves lip fullness 40%, decreases lines 30% and improves lip moisture 60%, and while I can't attest to the exact numbers, my lips are plump, shiny and moist without the stinging or pain of most plumpers.

And these are just 3 of the many PIXI by Petra products available at Pixibeauty.com, Target.com and Target stores across the nation.

Go get 'em and start looking glam without any of the work.

Yes, it is finally possible!

Get Pretty French Jewelry From LilyMe

Happy Monday! I hope that this message finds you well.

I am in the mood for pretty things today. That's why you should know about LilyMe.

French charms and jewelry - it doesn't get much prettier than that!

LilyMe was created by Parisian-born Gaelle. In 2008, she decided that she was going to import one of Europe's trendiest items - a personalized charm bracelet that hangs from a colourful satin cord.

And the rest, shall we say, is history!

There is something sweet and delicate to these charms, and the thin satin cord that they rest on makes it stand out from other jewelry. It also gives you a chance to mix and match your wardrobe to the cord.

There are both personalized charms and design charms to choose from. I'll warn you right now - it's awfully hard to choose just one! Do you want your charm to dangle or lay flat on your skin? What colour cord do you like the best? Do you want your initials on it or an empowering word?

Sigh...

After much deliberation, I followed my heart to beautiful Gold Rose Charm Bracelet. The cord is completely adjustable and so comfortable and light.

Really, it is just perfect.

And isn't that what you want in your jewelry?

Get your own french charms now.

Get Fit - Finally! - For Fall with Gymboss, Phubby and JumpSnap

Now that the weather is cooler, there's no excuse that it's too hot to exercise.

But where I live it gets really cool. So cool, you want to wear a scarf every time you return a DVD or pop out to the grocery store.

Either way, the conditions are never perfect for getting back in shape. There's all of this work to do and it seems that everyone's busiest season is September to December...

However, since having recently lost a few pounds, I want to make sure that I keep them off - and maybe even lose a few more.

Or at least, tone up and get into even better shape. So I went in search of some things that would get me fit but be fun too!

Here's what I found:

**Gymboss Interval Timer**

Whether you're into running, cardio or kickboxing, the Gymboss Interval Timer is an essential tool to keeping your workouts consistent and at a level that keeps you fit and not just going through the motions (which, come on, let's face it, happens all the time). So jump rope and then lift weights, or Tae Bo and then go for a run - this little gadget will make sure you're in fine form. Think of it like a little mini trainer without the hefty cost or all that yelling!

It's the size of a small pager and clips to your clothing, so you don't have to lug anything big around. It takes 1 AAA battery and is water and shock resistant, which means it will work whether you're doing jumping jacks or sprints at the local school track.

And you can totally customize it to what you need, so use one or two different time intervals from 2 seconds to 99 minutes. You can make it repeat intervals so you can set up a routine and stick to it! You can set up to 99 rounds, so go crazy!

There is also a manual mode, which acts as a countdown timer (good when you're trying to get through all of those sit-ups!) and a stopwatch.

You can choose to have the alarm beep, vibrate or both for 1, 5 or 10 seconds.

And that's what I like most about the Gymboss - it customizes to your workout, your style and can change when you change.

Which is a lot more than I can say about that guy at the gym in the velour sweatsuit that's been doing the same medicine ball workout since 1973.

**Phubby**

I don't think I've ever had workout gear that has had pockets.

And when I work out at the gym, I've got my jump rope, mp3 player, cellphone, locker key, a bottle of water and a towel. If you're out for a run or just tossing a frisbee around, you've got to take at least your keys, phone and maybe your wallet with you.

So that's where the Phubby comes in. It's a wrist pocket that will hold your keys, debit card or whatever else you need to keep on hand while you are active.

The lycra/spandex material is incredibly lightweight, comfortable and stretchy and allows you to feel your phone vibrate without disturbing others or having to search around your bag while your phone rings incessantly!

Phubby comes in a bunch of colours and patterns and comes in 3 sizes - small, medium and large.

You'll never have to worry about a missed call again!

**JumpSnap Ropeless Jump Rope**

I loooove to jump rope or skip.

Maybe it harkens back to public school, but I think it's more of a Rocky thing for me.

Nonetheless, I really love it and it's a fantastic way to lose weight and get in shape. The only thing is that I live above someone, so I don't want to be jumping up and down in case it disturbs them.

That's why I love my JumpSnap. No matter where you are or how little room you have, you can skip to your heart's content!

The JumpSnap Individual Package includes the amazing ropeless JumpSnap that can caculate how long and the number of jumps you take, along with a reading of the approximate calories you burned while jumping (you put in your height and weight and the device does the rest!).

You can set a target amount of jumps or a time limite so that the unit beeps when you've reached your goal and use the stop watch setting for individual sessions and workouts. You can also get it to tell you your workout summart with the "auto/manual talking mode"!

And because you might not be used to jumping without a rope (!!!), you can set a snapping sound to help you maintain a rhythm while jumping.

But you'd be amazed at how easy it is just making the motions with just the handles.

And speaking of the handles, they are ergonomically designed (comfy) and come with insertable weights, which will help work on your upper body while you're doing crossovers and jumps with your feet!

The JumpSnap takes just 2 AAA batteries (included) and the Individual Package includes an Eat Smart Guide, JumpSnap 4-in-1 Workout DVD, mesh travel bag and a 30-Day money back guarantee.

There are a number of different packages to get, but whatever one you choose, I think you're going to have a ton of fun jumping without a rope!

Discover the Stefani Linea Ceramic Water Purifier!

The solution for drinking purified water at home has arrived!

The Stefani Linea Ceramic Water Purifier is way better than those containers and filters you've been buying at the grocery store.

This amazingly well-made beauty is basically a ceramic water crock that reduces fungus, bacteria and all those things that you don't want in your drinking water. Which is why you wanted to get a water purifier and filtration system in the first place.

Because it's made out of terracotta, your water stays cool, unlike those awful (and harmful) plastic ones you've been using over the years.

And test regsults from water quality labs have certified that the Stefani products remove and reduce impurities and contaminants such as of bacteria, amoeba, copper, lead, chlorine, iron, zinc, bromoform, dichlorobormomethane, aluminum, chloroform, dibromoclormethane, dieldrine and lindane. I don't know what all of those are either, but I'm pretty sure I don't want 'em in my water!

And instead of having to refill some itty bitty water jug in your fridge every 2 days or have to remember to turn your tap filter off when you're doing the dishes (never happens!), this is truly a more economical and feasible way of having good clean water at home.

The container has a capacity of over 2 gallons, so you can not only drink to your heart's content, but you can cook with clean water too (which as an avid cook, I truly appreciate!).

It will seriously become one of the most used items in your home.

Buy the Stefani Linea or other ceramic water crocks here and here and finally have clean water at home that's economical and stress-free.

Speak Your Mind With A Lot To Say's 100% Green Tees!

It's a common sight to see people wearing their hearts on their sleeves, or more accurately, their thoughts on their tees.

And there's no better way to spread the word than A Lot to Say's messages that are in line with their manifesto.

Wear what you think and pick the issue that is closest to your heart.

If you're for gay marriage as I am, rock the I Do Tank. If cars have got you in a huff, wear the Fuel Cap Tee with pride and the Ignite Ribbed Tank to show 'em you can't be silenced!

Not only does A Lot To Say bring important issues to the forefront - and the asphalt - but they do it in an incredibly eco-minded way:

"[n]ow we can very proudly claim that they are more progressive, more green, more environmentally respectful than any other t-shirt out here."

They do this by:

- every A Lot To Say tee is now made entirely of RECYCLED BOTTLES.

- every tee is now printed by a revolutionary process called AIR DYE. This process utilizes a NO WATER printing procedure. That means no water is used for these shirts, thus helping to preserve our precious water supply.

- every tee is now 100% free of toxins.

- Every tee has the ability to recycle that same shirt into yet more RPET and recycled polyester and back into a new garment . That means no products going to landfill.

- every tee is created, dyed, sewed, manufactured and shipped within the U.S.A. Every day, the making of these shirts keep people employed, keep jobs in the USA and protest the conditions of sweatshop labor.

So not only do you get an incredibly cool top that is in line with your own beliefs and expresses your thoughts about a global issue concerning us all, but it is super soft and comfortable, looks fantastic and is made out of recycled bottles!

The only thing left to say, is how many are you going to get and which ones?!

Make a Statement This Fall With Batucada Jewelry

Looking for statement jewelry that will stop people in their tracks, but doesn't cost a fortune?

Batucada Jewelry has the most original bracelets, necklaces around that are made out of an eco plastic, a synthetic rubber that is eco-friendly and long-lasting!

What is amazing about this jewelry is how stunning it looks, due to the intricate designs available and the tattoo-ish look it creates. It is also incredibly light to wear, unlike those metal cuffs you've be donning all of these years and that statement necklace you bought that weighs a ton.

Just look at all the designs available - and at these prices, you can get a couple of pieces. For you AND a friend!

I got the Tropical Drops Bracelet in Black and EVERY TIME I WEAR IT, someone stops me to tell me how much they love it, where did I get it, etc.

This is the kind of reaction you want, isn't it?

Make your own statement this fall with Batucada Jewelry.

Luxuriate in New Scents for Fall with Ormonde Jayne!

Now this right here is luxurious.

Ormonde Jayne Perfumes come in the most beautiful packaging.

And this is all before you've even got a whiff of the stuff!

The exquisite black lacquered, mandarin-style Sample Programme box slides open with a slight whoosh. Underneath a gold panel awaits 2ml perfumes that have been created using "specialty oils not widely used." These oils come from around the world - Madagascar, Morocco - and then compounded and matured in Ormond Jayne's London laboratory, headed by creator Linda Pilkington:

"In creating Ormonde Jayne, my goal was to combine elements which I consider define true elegance: the quality of English craftsmanship, the art of French perfumery and the sensuality and natural harmony of the Orient."

Each fragrance has its own distinct personality.

Osmanthus is a heady, slightly sweet floral mixture that is feminine and light, while Frangipani is a melange of summer scents - dewy grass, fresh flowers and sunshine.

Sampaquita is like nothing I've ever encountered before (maybe because it's the national flower of the Phillipines), bu it is undeniably intoxicating. Read Linda's explanation of the scent, as I just won't do it justice. Champaca is unbelievably delicate with a slight smokiness that surprises and delights.
Taif is a damask rose from Arabia is sexy and peppery. It smells like a moonlit walk on a boardwalk. And while Tolu doesn't have an ounce of musk in it, it has that earthy, woody vibe to it that I love about musks - it must be the golden frankincense, amber and orange blossom in it.

Orris Noir is a tricky one to describe. Even Ormonde Jayne says so!

Ormonde Jayne's signature scents, Ormonde Woman and Ormonde Man have one surprising ingredient in common - black hemlock! It gives them each an distinct fragrance that is captivating, yet completely original. It is like they were created in another century and captured in tiny bottles for us to enjoy.

Isfarkand and Zizan are for the gentlemen of the house and are nothing like what your guys are currently rockin' from the drugstore. Zizan is lemony and fresh with a sexy edge while Isfarkand is slightly more peppery, with that confident-man-in-a-suit zeal.

What makes Ormonde Jayne's fragrances different than the rest? Absolutely everything, as far as my sniffer can tell.

What a unique and fabulous gift, wouldn't you say?!

It's Monday Morning - There's No Time! Get Help with Hem Tape, Lucky Crow Gift Bags and White Sands!

It's Monday morning and you're rushing around, trying to down that last bit of caffeine swirling around your mug while hopping on one foot, slipping on your shoe and keeping one eye on the clock and the other on the daily headlines.

You don't have time for anything to go amiss. That's why I've searched around and come up with some of the best problem-solvers around.

You're gonna love 'em!

**Bristols 6 Hem Tape for Denim**

You finally gave in to that pair of expensive long and lean, dark wash skinny jeans that you rocked all summer long with your cork heel wedges, but what are you going to do now that it's fall and you're wearing ballet flats and low boots with no heel? Your beautiful jeans are now too long.

Now with Bristols 6 Hem Tape for Denim you can quickly "hem" your jeans to the length needed. Thanks to this heavy-duty tape, it holds your hem in place, while allowing you to let them down when needed. Use it to keep your cuff in place on your boyfriend jeans or create a shorter look in an instant to show off those new boots you got for fall.

And here's the best part - there's no gluey, sticky residue left behind.

This is addictive stuff. Especially for those of us who would never go near a sewing machine.

Get your money's worth on those expensive jeans for once.

**Lucky Crow Fabric Gift Bags**

Need to wrap a gift for a co-worker and you've only got a minute before your ride shows up? Have you been meaning to wrap something for the last week only to remember moments before having to head out to a client dinner.

Not only are Lucky Crow Fabric Gift Bags the quickest way to wrap something, they are also the prettiest.

There are ton of different collections to choose from and each bag comes complete with a ribbon, which means you simply place the item in the bag and tie a bow. Done! Lucky Crow was also kind enough to think of everything when it comes to gift giving - they've included free gift tags so print off a sheet when you place your order and have them at the ready.

Ahhh...

No tape, no time, no waste. These eco-friendly bags can be used for rewrapping or storing items, which makes it a little something extra for the person you're giving it to. And if you've got a little time to plan a party, why not use these as favour and gift bags for your guests? How awesome is that?!

And the lovely folks at Lucky Crow Gift Bags are giving knack readers a special deal! Type in "the knack" at checkout and you'll receive 20% off an order of $50 or more.

**White Sands ER Fusion**

Is your hair outta control and you've got an important meeting that gives you only 5 minutes in order to impress the board this morning?

Get silky, soft, manageable hair INSTANTLY with White Sands ER Fusion.

Just apply after you've washed your hair, comb through, and rinse. All of a sudden, you will have the hair you've always dreamed of - high shine, colour and volume - without the frizz, fuss and crazy that you've grown so used to.

And ER Fusion saves you time, money AND energy because it's set to work for 30 days. So apply once a month and get back to being your fabulous self - and have the hair to match!

Oh, and it smells great too.

3 Great Eco Finds for Your Home from Palm Leaf Dinnerware, Gaia & Ecopreme

It's getting easier to find and buy eco-friendly products for your home. I went in search of fun and useful products for around the house that are also good for the earth. Here's what I found...

**Palm Leaf Dinnerware**

Disposable plates are a godsend when you're having a party. Recently we had some people over and the one thing I've learned from years of entertaining is that I can no longer do it all - cook AND clean up afterwards. It's just too tiring and time-consuming. So since I just can't give up the cooking part, I've now switched to disposable party plates to make life a little more manageable.

The only problem was trying to find something other than styrofoam plates that didn't cost a fortune.

That's why I am forever grateful for Palm Leaf Dinnerware Plates.

Now I can throw a party and enjoy myself without worrying about the cleanup and I can serve my guests food on socially-responsible and beautiful plates.

They are biodegradable AND compostable, made from naturally discarded Adaka palm tree leaves that are found on the forest ground.

No trees were harmed during the making of these plates (woo woo!) and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes so you can serve everything from wild mushroom and polenta stacks to stuffed chicken breasts with rice pilaf and grilled vegetables to the chocolate torte that you can't claim to have made yourself (you're good, but not that good...)

And just watch how people ooh and ahh over your dinnerware. It's a pretty great feeling!

**Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths**

I don't use facecloths because it is hard to find one I think is soft enough for this mug o' mine.

But now that I've found Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths, you can't keep me away from them!

These soft, soft, soft cloths not only are made from 100% bamboo, one of my all-time favourite materials that also happens to be completely sustainable and biodegradable, but they come powered with the ability to remove your makeup (including eyeliner, mascara, etc!), cleanse and tone your skin!

Infused with 8 pure citrus essential oils, organic Canadian honey, sunflower seed oil and oat amino acids, these cloths give your skin a baby soft feel and look and all without alcohol, synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates and the need to rinse afterward.

I know, right?!

If you're using those expensive drugstore cleansing cloths, I highly recommend you try Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths to see and feel what a difference it makes.

The earth and your skin will thank you.

**Ecopreme iTouch Shower Curtain or Liner**

Chances are, you probably didn't think about the possibility of an eco shower curtain or liner. I mean, you're probably just trying to keep up with not using plastic bags at the grocery store and composting your organic kitchen matter regularly.

But thanks to Ecopreme (available through BedBathStore.com), you can finally have a clean, green and friendly shower curtain or liner that is chlorine freeand mold and mildew resistant. It even comes with rust proof metal grommets so your shower curtain won't be hanging by just 2 loops like the last one you had.

There are a number of styles to choose from (I got Frosty Clear) and you'll love how they feel to the touch - soft and buoyant without the icky plastic texture to combat with in the shower.

Woo woo!

Trick Out Your Tech With These Amazing Finds From USBCELL, Proporta, Fun Photo CD, iStik, BeAnywhere and v-moda!

I bet we are both on our computer all the live long day.

Me, I'm writing about celebrities and what chemicals are in an every day bar of soap while you may be compiling real estate reports or figuring out the latest way to market homemade beer.

Either way, our computers and our technology have become what we live and breathe by, whether we want to or not. So I have combed the globe in order to discover fabulous products that will help us in our every day technology-ridden lives.

Come and see what I've found:

**USBCELL USB Rechargable Batteries**

How cool is this?!

There is no charger, you can reuse these batteries hundreds of times, saving you time, money and energy ("Honey, did you buy batteries? The remote isn't working again!"), not to mention the planet (no c02 and toxic waste).

You recharge them by slipping them into any USB port for a mere 5 hours. No charger, no having to run out to the store, no stress.

Ahhh... doesn't that feel good!

And the AA Batteries - 2 cell pack - is incredibly affordable. Just think about how much use you're going to get out of these puppies!

In fact, you may just want to buy the Gift Box of 10 USBCELL packs (2xAAs) and stock up for the upcoming season... digital camera, mouse, TV remotes, toys, etc.

These are one of the most incredible products I've ever come across.

**Proporta Apple 4G iPod Nano Soft Feel Silicone Case**

I love Proporta because they always have everything you could possibly need for whatever device you may have. I wrote about their incredible selection back in 2007 and 2008 and again, I've found that they always have the latest and greatest products.

Take the Proporta Apple 4G iPod Nano Soft Feel Silicone Case, for example. It gives you double layered protection without any bulk and an incredibly soft feel that is so much nicer than something hard and pokey in your purse or pocket.

Technology doesn't have to be hard to the touch. At least, not anymore thanks to Proporta.

Check out their whole line and get the look and feel you want for your gadgets.

**Fun Photo CD**

Digital pictures are sooo cumbersome.

My hard drive is full of 'em, and while I have a ton of great stuff to look at, I spend so much time on my computer that the last thing I'm going to do is sit and scroll through hundreds (perhaps thousands) of photos.

That's why Fun Photo CD is a brilliant idea. It is a pocket-size, portable slideshow that you can carry with you or send to friends and family!

There is no software to install, no programming to learn because this mini CD has everything embedded right on it. All you have to do is:

- insert the mini-CD into your CD drive
- click “Add Photos”
- arrange photos by pushing the up or down button (you can choose up to 200!)
- add your own captions and music (or choose from the four music selections already included)

The Fun Photo CD automatically turns your photos into a slide show!

You can select one of 8 themes (Our Wedding, Our Vacation, etc.) or buy it blank. Each CD comes with a self-stick CD holders that can attach to any standard greeting card.

I think this means we both just got our Christmas list started, doesn't it?

Contact Fun Photo CD for where to buy them in your area.

**iStik iPod Accessories**

When listening to your music, you want to be hands-free.

That's why the iStik is a musthave item for anyone who likes to shop, workout, run, walk, dance, work, sew, whatever, while they listen to their tunes.

Using 8 high-tech Neodymium magnets, a strong hold is created allowing you to fasten the crystal clear plastic case securely in place where you like - on your tank top or t-shirt, on your yoga pants waistband, wherever it best and most comfortable for you!

This amazingly innovative product allows you to access all of the controls without any annoying straps or clips to deal with.

You can even use it as a stand for watching videos on your Nano!

There is a style for everyone.

Buy it online or at a retail store near you.

**BeAnywhere Remote Access**

If you travel at all, or like to work away from your home computer, this is a freakin' godsend.

You'll wonder where it's been all of your life.

Seriously!

As long as you leave your computer on, you can see and control your PC screen, even if you are halfway across the globe! You can:

- access your email, applications and files from anywhere using your own home computer and this amazing device!

- share files with your friends and family. There is no need to upload and for once, you've got the unlimited storage space you've always dreamed of. Finally, you can email files of any size without worries!

- transfer files between 2 computers safely and easily (which you know you're going to have to do after trying to file a story in an internet cafe in the Dominican Republic). Copy files and entire folders between your local and remote PC. Need that expense report from 2008? Done. Want to get an address of an old college friend while you're in their hometown? Easy! Wherever you go, your files will be just a click away.

- Synchronize files between your local and remote computers with just one click. Did you just make changes to something here in Boston while your home computer is in Tokyo? No problemo! Everything will be all nicely synced both while you're on the road and when you get back home. Oh-Mawh-Gawd!

Buy BeAnywhere Remote Access and effortlessly live and work and travel without worry.

It will change your life!

**v-moda vibe ii w/ mic**

v-moda is one of those amazing companies that makes products that look as good as they sound!

I wrote about their metallic red beauties back in '07 and the vibe blush in '08.

Not only do v-moda earphones offer extraordinary sound and comfort, they look cool too!

And it continues with their latest offering, the v-moda vibe ii w/ mic.

There is nothing these don't have. Check it out!

No only do they have:

- premium stainless steel alloy and Kevlar reinforced woven fabric cables

- v-moda's world-renowned hi-definition sound

- BLISS (Bass Level Isolating Soft Silicone) noise-isolation

- ergonomic detachable sport earhooks with ACTIVE FLEX making them as movable as you are

- a discrete microphone

- convenient call/music control functions for use with the iPhone/iPod and other music enabled phones (such as the Blackberry Bold, Curve, and Storm), so finally you can listen to music, switch to picking up a call, and then effortlessly go back to jamming to your playlist.

- Do you flail your arms while you're dancing to your favourite tunes? Well, don't stop, because the newly fabricated plug features "a 45-degree flexible design to allow an optimal range of motion while maintaining a sleek, sturdy metallic core and 24-carat gold-plated plug." So do the Superman, the Scuba Hop, the 2-step, or simply pop and lock your way thru your favourite song without having to worry about the cord.

Woo woo!

And of course, you can't discuss any v-moda earphones without covering how amazing the sound is. With the vibe ii with microphone, they've add an all new V-MASQUE dynamic driver which boasts an "unparalleled high-definition, 3D soundstage, invoking the sense of a live music experience through its vibrant bass, vivid mid-range, and vivacious highs."

And as always with v-moda, you'll get 4 pairs of both black and clear silicone fittings (XS, S, M, L), so that you get the fit that's right for you and there's a 1 year premier warranty, designer carrying case and VIP card to boot.

Pick your colour, buy 'em now and rock your heart out!

I love you, v-moda!

7 Cookbooks - and 1 Recipe Organizer - to Savour This Fall (it's a long one!)

When I'm not eating out for a living or at home writing to deadline, you can usually find me either:

- reading a book or cookbook or magazine
- cooking
- out looking for intriguing ingredients

And now that I've received some really exciting cookbooks out this Fall, you'd better believe that there's a lot of pot banging, slicing and dicing and simmering and sauteing going on!

Come and see all the amazing books I've found - there's something for everyone here!

Quick & Easy Korean Cooking: More Than 70 Everyday Recipes by Cecilia Hae-Jin Lee

Korean food is one of the few that I rarely make, only because it's almost never made it into any international cookbooks I've read or own.

But I love the cuisine and thought, wouldn't it be great if I could just make it at home?

And now, thanks to Cecilia Hae-Jin Lee, I can.

I love that this book breaks down all the ingredients you'll need in your pantry as well as what some of them are (Korean leeks, malt syrup and soju are new additions to my kitchen cupboard). Cecilia has also thoughtfully included pre-set menus for you to follow, mail-order sources for Korean ingredients and a list of books and resources on food, cooking and culture of Korea.

Compact and filled with luscious photographs of both the food and Korean sites, you'll soon be swooning over Kimchi Pancakes, Seasoned Mung Bean Sprouts, Soy Stewed Beef, Feast Noodles.

And finally you can enjoy Korean Hot Pot at home.

Woo woo!

L.A.'s Original Farmers Market Cookbook: Meet Me at 3rd and Fairfax by JoAnn Cianciulli

Normally, I don't find farmers market cookbooks all that useful, because they are often very basic, and you want the fresh and local produce to stand out, not what you put on it.

But author JoAnn Cianciulli has created profiles of the vendors, their stories and then their products, so you get a feel for the people behind the food. And of course, the plethora of photos just brings it right home.

It really is like being at the market, which my fella Scott says is extraordinary, and he doesn't get anywhere as excited about farmer's markets as I do, so you can just imagine.

The book is filled with multi-generational characters and international foods and flavours that are really invigorating.

With recipes like Caramel-and-Chocolate-Glazed Cake Doughnuts from Bob's Coffee and Doughnuts to China Depot's Grilled Vegtable Egg Foo Young and Papa's Grill Bachalhau (Portuguese Cod Fish), you will soon be using your own local and seasonal ingredients in a way that carries on the traditions of family's of farmers and local producers.

I can't think of anything better.

Rice Pasta Couscous: The Heart of the Mediterranean Kitchen by Jeff Koehler

Having co-hosted a food book club that takes place around the Mediterranean, I have really enjoying speaking about the cuisines of different cultures and am fascinated by how many of the same ingredients are used in each country.

Jeff Koehler is astoundingly knowledgeable in the different countries, regions and delicacies and gives thorough recipes for really interesting dishes that probably won't show up in too many of the cookbooks on your shelf.

Having read hundreds and hundreds of cookbooks, I can honestly say I've never come across one such as this - heartfelt, rich with history and authentic dishes that you will honestly be able to prepare on your own with ingredients that are probably already in your pantry.

I can't wait to make the Rice with Monkfish and Artichokes (Ebro Delta, Spain), The Countess's Whiskey Risotto with Rosemary (Vercelli, Italy), Lentil Chorba (Algers, Algeria), Fresh Nettle Pasta (Malta), Kushary (Egypt), Lamb Couscous with Meatballs (Tunisia) and Braised Chicken Buried in Sweet Couscous (Tangier, Morocco).

Oh my. Just wait until I tell the bookclub about this one!

Cooking for Two: Perfect Meals for Pairs by Jessica Strand

Cooking for two is often easier cooking than cooking for one, and harder than cooking for 6.

It is a delicate balance that changes throughout your relationship and continues to change based on your eating and grocery shopping habits as well as how much you are willing to spend on ingredients and how much you've been influenced by watching The Food Network (or in my case, reviewing restaurants for a living).

The biggest problem I have is that we eat dinner together almost every night and after 7+ years together, I often feels like I've already made everything before. So I am going to make everything in this cookbook, following the recipes exactly, because that way I can be sure we will have never had it - at least not like this - before.

And really, the choices are simply delectable - Sake- and Ginger-Poached Black Bass on a Bed of Garlicky Baby Bok Choy, Pan-Seared Herb-Rubbed Pork Chops with Port-Glazed Apples, Black Bean Turkey Chili with Corn Muffins and Whipped Honey and Chicken Tangine for Two, just for example.

And I like the Romantic Meal suggestions of Cornish Game Hens Stuffed with Sweet Italian Sausage, Prunes, and Savory with Cinnamon Butternut Squash, Mini Rack of Lamb with Nutty Beluga Lentils and Sauteed Garlic Spinach, and Desserts that will knock my baby's socks off such as Meyer Lemon Pot-Au-Creme and Phyllo Nests Filled with Raspberries and Drizzled with Orange Syrup and Bittersweet Chocolate.

Honey, dinner's ready!

Culinary Vietnam by Daniel Hoyer

I looove Vietnamese food and am lucky enough to live near a restaurant that serves cuisine from North Vietnam (most places here in the city focus on the South).

So I am excited by a book that offers a look at the culture and cuisine so that I can make Vietnamese when I have the hankering for it, without having to leave the house.

And what a book - rich photos of the people and their land, extensive explanations of ingredients and lists of where to get them, along with fabulous recipes that are neither too complicated nor too time intensive. Which, let's face it, in today's world is a huge bonus.

Tonight I'm going to make Pomelo and Char-Grilled Shrimp Salad, Sour Soup with Fish, Grilled Beef with Okra, Tomatoes and Pineapple and Pumpkin in Coconut Milk.

Wanna come over?

Southern Living Comfort Food: A Delicious Trip Down Memory Lane

Good Lord, this is an amazing book.

And now that it's cooled down and our appetites are swelling in the evening, this is the perfect selection for fall fare!

I am jumping up and down over creating Cola Pot Roast, Country Ham with Redeye Gravy, Margaret's Creamy Grits, Pecan Steusel Coffee Cake and Quick Hoppin' John.

And in case that's not exciting enough for you (come on!), the book is about 1/3 decadent and calorie-laden desserts.

This oughtta get you through the cold winter months!

Lobel's Meat Bible: All You Need to Know About Meat and Poultry from America's Master Butchers by Stanley, Evan, Mark and David Lobel

I recommended the Meat Bible a couple of months back because it really is just about the best book on meat. It goes through the different cuts, what they are best used for and recipes that are easy to follow with incredibly successful results.

We had a party about a month ago, with my recent cookbooks in a jagged pile beneath our long bench (there never enough seating at our place, it seems). A friend's new boyfriend saw them with the large-fonted "MEAT BIBLE" catching his eye. Never having met me before, he shook my hand and said, "Anyone who has a bible on meat is okay in my books."

'Nuff said.

Bon Appetit Recipe Binder

I don't anyone who writes out recipes on index cards anymore. Like most people, I rip 'em out of magazines and photocopy them from library books to add to my collection.

Also like most people, I have a huge pile of recipes that I don't know what to do with and thus, they are piled upon piled in a somewhat tidy stack in the living room, dying to be organized.

So when I came across the beautiful Bon Appetit Recipe Binder with 3 rings, shopping list, study tabbed indexes - complete with luscious photo and matching recipe as well as pockets to stuff with notes and scraps (!!!), I just about lost my mind.

It's p-e-r-f-e-c-t. It has everything you could even want and/or need including measurements, cooking tips and items to stock your pantry with.

It's the Brad Pitt of recipe organizers - good looking, smart and should be handled each and every day.

I don't know why you'd want anything else.

Change It Up And Do Something Fun This Weekend!

Because I'm a freelance writer, my deadlines can fall on a Saturday or Sunday and often while most people are out shopping and brunching, I am hunched over my little rolltop desk working.

I know the importance of taking time off, but I find it extremely difficult and sometimes even feel guilty for not working (my desk is at the end of our bed, so that doesn't help matters. I can see my piles of working awaiting me).

So I have come up with some activities that not only take me away from my looming work, but are fun and original and can be done at anytime.

Yoga-Paws

There is such freedom in using Yoga-Paws! No more having to roll out or carry a mat. Just slip these mini mats on your hands and feet for either yoga or pilates exercises and get moving quickly and safely!

These are fantastic because they are small enough to throw in your gym bag, briefcase, tote bag or carry on so you can really use them anywhere.

And they are made of an eco-friendly material that is free of chlorides, latex and pvc and provides great stability while absorbing dirt, oil and yes, even perspiration.

Which means that maybe I'll actually start watching and following those yoga DVDs that leer at me every time we watch TV.

I mean, I've really got no excuses anymore, do I?!

You've Been Sentenced!

After a long day of writing to deadline (my television screenwriter fella and me, a magazine writer), you'd think the last thing we'd want to do is craft sentences.

That's what we thought, until we actually tried You've Been Sentenced!, an award-winning board game.

The way it works is you get 10 cards. Each card has a number of words on it. You can choose any word on the card and use between 2 to 10 cards to form a sentence. Then your read out your sentence and your opponents get to choose whether it is passable or not.

The fun begins when you pick out your 10 cards and realize you have no articles. It is extremely difficult to form a sentence without as, a, the, but it's kind of a fun challenge at the same time!

The ante is upped when the first person who finishes their sentence turns over the timer. This means you've only got until the sand runs out to complete your sentence. The pressure! The drama! The crazy sentences!

We played 2 rounds our first time because it was so much fun! And thanks to YBS Add-On Decks, you not only have more cards to choose from, but the categories add a whole new layer of enjoyment. I love the Pop Culture Deck with Ashlee Simpson, Tom Cruise and words like Wii and email. I like the challenge of the Sci-Fi & Fantasy Deck, because other than Battlestar Galactica and Darth Vader, I don't know what any of it is. I of course can't get enough of the Gourmet Cuisine Deck.

We had so much fun that we're having a game night at our place in September with our friends and neighbours, so they can try out You've Been Sentenced! too.

It's such a fun way to spend the night!

Punk Rope

Back when I was fitness instructor, I was working out every 2nd day and part of my routine was skipping rope.

It's a great cardio workout and I found it to be a lot more enjoyable than stuck on a machine for half an hour.

But I reached a plateau - I not only ran out of steam, I ran out of moves. And slowly, I started moving towards other activities to keep in shape.

Now that I'm working at home, I need to shake things up and be creative about keeping fit.

One of the best ways I've found is with the Never Mind Aerobics Here's Punk Rope DVD. It's a 50-minute, energetic workout that includes:

- a rope jumping lesson
- warm-up and cool-down
- 6 invigorating conditioning drills
- 5 high-energy, rope jumping intervals

I like that it is for all fitness levels (because let's face it, after our party that went until late last night, I'm not going to jumping like I would on a Tuesday morning after a good night's sleep) and that it is unlike the usual crop of aerobic videos.

The punk music keeps your energy level high and it's a great soundtrack for not only working out, but getting ready for a night on the town, a party with friends and neighbours or just generally listening to around the house. It's fun and lively and good for those of you who might think that punk's not your thing. This just might change your mind.

And to top it off, the rope you get - The Slasher,a see-thru, licorice whip red beauty- is made in the USA by people with disabilities.

Awesome.

3 Ways to Update Your Look for Fall From Secret, SpaRitual, Orly & Pencil Me In Cosmetics

Now that it's September, school's back in session and the evenings have that autumn chill to them, it's time to start changing it up for Fall.

Here are 3 quick, easy and inexpensive ways to infuse your wardrobe and makeup bag with the colours of the season. Enjoy!

1. Secret Legwear's Fall 2009 Tights Collection

I love a great pair of tights,. Microminis look almost modest when paired with opaque tights and thigh high boots and light dresses make the transition from summer to fall with just the addition of a pair of tights.

And no one does them like Secret.

This Fall is all about texture and colour. Don a pair of tights in Grey Flannel, Red, Brown or Magenta or add eye-catching detail with a Horizontal Rib or Large Basket Weave design.

Soft, stretchy and uber comfortable, this is going to be the one accessory that you can count on all season long!

2. SpaRitual & Orly's NEW FAll 2009 Collections

I love the colours of fall. And no one has captured it better than SpaRitual and Orly for nails.

SpaRitual's new collection Forbidden, has really deep, soft and moody shades that are quite sumptuous:

Hush - a warm mid-brown creme that will go with everything in your closet
Regal - this plum creme is dark without being too vampy and is surprisingly flattering on any skintone
Intrigue - a burnt orange creme that is a great red alternative for those of us who can't pull red off
Hypnotic - this charcoal brown shimmer is super sexy and intriguing - just watch how much you wear this one
Inner Sanctum - light peach brown creme that is stunningly feminine and a great everyday shade that you'll quickly get addicted to
Mystic - ahhh, this taupe creme or griege (grey beige) as I like to call it, is my favourite in the collection - it is modernity in a bottle

SpaRituals Nail Lacquers are Vegan and free of DBP, toluene and formaldehyde.

And Orly's new collection for Fall, Once Upon a Time is all fantastyland with deep magentas, burnt reds, muted blues and sumptuous browns.

Happily Ever After - a magenta shimmer that is tangy and exciting
Pixie Dust - this ice blue shimmer is sexy and contemporary
Enchanted Forest - a dark green creme that gives any outfit instant edge
Mirror Mirror - a grey creme that is uber of the moment
Poison Apple - a burnt red creme that oozes fall's warmth and coziness
Prince Charming - this brownish grey creme is deep and chic

Orly's Nail Lacquers are free of all DBP and all traces of toulene and formaldehyde.

3. Pencil Me In Cosmetics Eyeliners

I wear black eyeliner all the time, and frankly, I'm so tired of it.

So for fall I went looking for exciting new colours and I found them in Pencil Me In Cosmetics Eyeliners.

And not only do they offer great shades, they are healthy.

Infused with vitamins and antioxidants such as green tea leaf, pine bark and grape seed extracts, shea butter and vitamins A, B, B2, C and E, these heavily pigmented colours go on easy and are long lasting and good for you.

Oh, and let's not forget that a sharpener is built into every cap (thank you!).

The website offers choices specified for blondes, brunettes, redheads, warm tones and cool tones, so finally you don't have to guess what colours are best for you and your skintone.

Check out all of the colours and change it up this season with matte, frosted, metallic and glitter shades in every colour you can imagine.

I'm going to!

Hissyfit Skincare Protects, Renews & Perfects!

First of all, there's the name - Hissyfit.

It's fun and irreverent and makes you take notice.

Then there's the actual products.

Australian Creators Lou Dobson & Sue Smethurst have come up with a 3-in-1 formulation that uses powerful botanical extracts to give your skin what it needs - moisture, protection for the sun and let's face it - most importantly, age.

The line provides protection from head to toe!

Body Double Anti-Aging Body Moisturizer + SPF

I love that you get SPF 30+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection with this. Slather yourself in the morning after your shower and reapply as needed throughout the day. This stuff actually helps prevent sunburn! Makes you think twice about using that cheap one you got at the drugstore, doesn't it?

The cream is thick and moisturizing without being greasy, and it's fragrant and citrusy (thanks to grapefruit and orange peel oils) with a soft vanilla/almond finish.

Mmm!

Saving Face Anti-Aging Foundation

Never before have I seen a product with SPF 50+. And because just 15 minutes of exposure to sunlight can prematurely age your skin, you've gotta know that this is the good stuff right here - it's like wearing an invisible mask (containing anti-aging extracts such as pomegranate, green tea and Australian Daisy)!

I like that it's a tinted moisturizer that also gives good coverage. I tried 2 shades - light and sand - and both worked with my skin tone, though sand was a little softer. There are 7 to choose from and they are water resistant. The finish is definitely dewy, so if you want a more matte look, just dab on a little powder.

This is the foundation of the future, don't you think?

And damn it looks good!

Lip Service Anti-Aging Lip Balm + SPF

I am very particular about lip products as my lips are naturally dry and seem to eat up most of what I apply.

This slick product, though, forms kind of a light protective, glossy seal on your lips so that the moisture stays in.

Huh! I've never had that before.

And it's got the SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection so you can be at the beach, in a convertible or on a patio with the sun beating down and even your lips will be protected - how awesome is that?!

And in case that's not enough, the shea butter, jojoba oil and vitamin E contained within help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth!

Oh my!

Handy Work Anti-Aging Hand Cream + SPF

I've never thought about anti-aging for hands before, but hey, I'm all for anything that will help to keep me looking youthful!

The cream sinks in quickly and goes to work on brown spots, uneven skin tone, wrinkles and dryness. And it smells good too, thanks to mint and orange essential oils.

Buy Hissyfit and keep old age at bay!

Get Comfy and Cozy In DreamSacks' Natural Fiber and Bamboo Clothing!

I have written endlessly about how much I love bamboo clothing (type "bamboo clothing" into the search bar on the right to see just how much!).

How it is the most comfortable material that I've ever found. How it keeps it's buoyancy and life no matter how many times you wash it.

So when I came across Dreamsacks, I knew I'd found a haven for life!

They carry products that are made from all natural fibers - bamboo, soy, silk and cashmere - so you get a soft and cozy product that is also environmentally responsible. To walk the talk, Dreamsacks offers BEF Carbon Offsets for only $1.

Dreamsacks is a family-owned business

They carry clothing for women, men, babies and expectant moms, bedding, DreamSacks, travel, acccessories and clearance items too. You can get a new wardrobe, outfit the house and do your holiday shopping all in one place!

I love the selection of items and found so many amazing choices in their women's clothing. I like that you can get everything from a dress to jacket to robe. There are pieces that you can wear everyday to really special, celebratory outfits.

One of my favourite finds is the DreamNaturally Maya Kimono Sleeve Tunic. I love the possibilities of this top - you can wear it casually or dress it up, wear it with tights or jeans or cigarette pants.

The wide waist band and kimono style sleeves make it a dramatic top, which is what you've been craving for fall, isn't it? And it is uber flattering because you can hide and flaunt your body parts all at once (they should call this a miracle top).

And because it's made of 95% viscose from bamboo and 5% spandex, it is so comfortable, that you will wear it not only out to dinner with girlfriends, but you'll lounge around the house in it like you're a Kardashian.

It's also pesticide free and made from a sustainable and renewable resource, so you'll not only look amazing, but feel great and be doing a good thing by buying clothing that makes a difference to us and our planet.

All that good stuff with just one purchase?

It's a pretty great way to shop, don't you think?

Shop DreamSacks now.