October 31, 2009

Liven Up Your Home Bar with VeeV, Sence and Art in the Age ROOT!

Forget the usual picks you've been getting for the last decade or two. Here are 3 completely original and superb drink finds to liven up your home bar and to help you become the envy of your friends and neighbours.

Cheers!

1.**VeeV Acai Spirit**

It's not often that you come across a drink that's absolutely delicious. But VeeV wowed my fella and I - so much so that we started to really look forward to cocktails before dinner every night. So much so that we kept it to ourselves for a couple of weeks. We had the one bottle, yes, but we loved it so much. It was too early to share...

We got over our greediness in just a couple of nights (filled with multiple VeeVs - it was like being in Mad Men for awhile there...) and then started inviting friends and neighbours to try it.

I told one of our friends, "This is one of the single best drinks I've ever had. You may not have the same reaction, but I'm telling you, it might just change your life."

He agreed. He asked me where to get it. He took down the name so that he could tell his wife about it.

Not only is it damn tasty with its 100% all-natural ingredients 60 proof liqueur that "mixes like vodka with a smoother finish."

Hells yeah!

Have it on its own and enjoy it's exotic blend of dark berries, or our favourite concoction - VeeV with ginger ale. I'm also dying to try the VeeV Eco Mojito, VeeV Global Cooler and Veev Acai-tini.

Why serve up regular rum and cokes when you can have the good stuff? The stuff that transforms you and has you actually enjoying your cocktail for the first time in your life?! And it's good for you - it's loaded with vitamins C & E and has "57% more antioxidants than pomegranates and 30 times more than red wine."

Veev is spectacular. And now your parties will be too!

p.s. The company donates $1 from every bottle sold to The Sustainable Acai Project.

2. **Sence Rare European Rose Nectar**

Sence is one of those staples - like capers or Moroccan tea glasses - that once you have on hand, make everything else seem extra special.

Made from the Kazanlak Rose from Bulgaria, this subtle nectar can be added to enhance your drink, both in colour and flavour. You can add some to straight up champagne or vodka, or get a little more creative with building upon the flavour with multiple ingredients.

High in Vitamin C (what other cocktail offers you vitamins?!), this little bottle offers you a distinguished drink that has a soft, romantic side.

Perfect.

3. **Art in the Age ROOT**

There is something so smooth, so comforting about a homemade, handcrafted root beer. There is that distinct tang of birch bark, sassafras, cardamom or root -as we have come to know it - with a swirly finish of sugarcane.

Now imagine that flavour all tangled up in an 80 proof concoction and you've got yourself one sexy mofo of a drink - ROOT. And it's Certified Organic, to boot!

Watch the video of how ROOT came to be and see that what you're not only buying alcohol, but a little bit of American history too.
Buy it, because as the company says, "You are what you drink," and because it's damn delicious!

Happy Halloween from Stephanie and the knack!

October 30, 2009

3 Must-Have Purse Items From Urban Rituelle, Frais and Use It Again Sam!

We all have things that are essential to have along with us, in our purse, throughout the day.

Here are 3 must-haves that you should consider:

1. **Urban Rituelle Lip Balm**

This is one of the best balms to have in your bag. The large, pretty tin means that you'll never run out, yet doesn't take up much room. It also means that you'll always have soft, silky lips thanks to tons of soothing and hydrating ingredients such as natural beeswax, almond and olive oils, shea butter and vitamin E.

What makes this stand out from the rest is that it's got sunscreen in the mix as well, so you'll always be protected. And there are a gazillion colours and flavours to choose from (I got Lime Splice which is subtler than it sounds), which means you can change it up as soon as your tin is empty.

But like I said, this is going to last you awhile unlike those other balms you're used to. So pick a fun flavour and have soft, sensuous lips this winter.

2.** Frais Hand Sanitizer**

Carrying hand sanitizer in your purse has probably become second nature. But what does the one you're currently carrying have in it? Does it reek of alcohol and chemicals? I'm sure.

That's why you should switch to Frais Hand Sanitizers. Their mandate is "to add luxury to the smart practice of hand sanitizing."
Les Huit is a blend of 8 essential oils (ginger, tangerine, lemon, myrtle, niaouli, orange, basil, grapefruit and cardamom) and sugarcane alcohol that kills 99.9% of germs. Not only will your hands smell spicy and enticing, but they won't dry out.

It comes in different sizes, so that you can customize it to your bag - there's the Pocket, Everyday, Gift, Spa and Travel.

Why not use a hand sanitizer with healthy ingredients that smells great and won't parch your skin in the process?

3. **Use It Again Sam Reusable Bags**

Hopefully, you've got into the routine of carrying bags with you everywhere you go, now that plastic bags are 5 cents, and we're trying to reduce our use of plastic anything.

What I have discovered in the process is that bags like SamBags are perfect because they can hold a lot, yet they are compact and lightweight enough that you can always keep them in your hobo or slouch bag without carrying around the extra weight and bulk (they fold into a pouch to make them extra compact!).

And to keep it from getting boring, just look at all the colours you can select from! I got a bunch - Desert, Universe, Sea Glass, Iris and Ebony.

They are affordable, go over your shoulder and hold a ton. And here's the best part - they are logo-free, so you can carry your produce, bottle of wine and books and magazines without advertising some company.

I love my SamBags from Use It Again Sam. They just make life so much easier - and a little bit more colourful too!

October 28, 2009

Brighten Up Your Day With These 3 Fab Finds From Giorgio Beverly Hills, The Green Beaver Company & St. Tropez!

It's the middle of the week, and where I am it's raining. I was thinking you might need a little boost, a little pick-me-up.

Here are some fab finds that oughtta help - enjoy!

1. **Giorgio Beverly Hills Sunshine**

Remember the 80s? Big sweaters, aqua eyeliner along the bottom of your eye and desert boots? And the Giorgio boutique in Beverly Hills was not only one of the most popular stores, but one of the most popular perfumes of its time.

And now it's been revamped for 2009 with Giorgio Beverly Hills Sunshine!

What I like most about it is that it is a warm, sunny scent that instantly makes you feel better. It really is like a boost of sunshine! And now that we're heading into November, wouldn't this be the perfect time to envelope yourself in this feminine scent of bergamot, jasmine, gardenia, tuberose, pathcouli and mmm...moss!

Get yourself some Giorgio Beverly Hills Sunshine and feel warm and sunny all winter long!

2. **The Green Beaver Company's 100% Natural Facial Cleanser**

Liven up your daily routine with this amazing cleanser that wakes you up with the refreshing scent of grapefruit!

100% Natural Facial Cleanser uses grapefruit enzyme;s to remove impurities from your skin, while aloe adds moisture and helps keep your skin soothed as does chamomile. The cleanser is suitable for sensitive skin as it does not contain harsh detergents, SLS, methyl, preservatives, artificial fragrances, dyes, petrolatum, propylene gylcol or animal products.

I use it every morning and evening - just massage onto wet skin and rinse off. It's that easy!

3. **St. Tropez Tanning**

Has your summer tan faded away much like your vacation days, the longing for homemade popsicles and short shorts?

Then it's time for Everyday Perfect Legs by St. Tropez. This dual-working tan cream allows you to get both a gradual and instant tan and makes your legs look dreamy, despite the gray days and cool weather!

It goes on extremely well and even for a beauty klutz like me, I was astounded to see a completely even tan develop before my eyes. So that means anyone can do it!

There are 2 creams - a gradual self tan and a flawless finish of instant bronze made especially for your legs. And infused with soothing aloe and a marine extract, you'll also get a good supple moisture going as well, so no dry legs this winter!

Not only is the application easy and the results incredible, but you won't find any of those cloying "tan scents" that you're used to. Their "innovative Aromaguard fragrance technology eliminates the tell-tale self tan aroma by a minimum of 70% and instead gives a beautiful subtle, yet refreshing fragrance."

And to keep your skin nice and juicy this fall and winter, get yourself St. Tropez's Tan Optimizer Body Moisturizer!

It's their top tip for getting a natural looking tan (for those of you in warm places or with tanning beds - me, I'll have to wait for June to arrive). St. Tropez describes it as " packed with a luxurious blend of ingredients, to help keep your skin looking sleek, supple and hydrated every day. Essential for softening dry areas before self tan application. "

Doesn't that sound like exactly how you want to spend these colder months?

Well, that and some hot chocolate maybe...

See all that St. Tropez has to offer and look youthful and healthy this summer without any of the damage of the sun!

October 19, 2009

Get Yourself Affordable & Beautiful Tungsten Wedding Bands!

In these tough economic times, something as special and spectacular as a wedding band may seem out of reach financially.

But there is an affordable and pretty option available, thanks to Tungsten Wedding Rings!

I love the gunmetal gray colour that stands out from the usual silver or gold options. Made from carbide, it's also incredibly durable and scratch resistant, so although the price tag is low, you can be sure that your ring will last through however many turkeys you stuff, bathtubs you clean or shelves you put up in the spare room.

I got the Womens Tungsten 6mm Dome Wedding Ring, but as you can see, there are so many designs to choose from!

And yes, you could go out and spend thousands of dollars on your wedding band, but this way you get a band at a price you can actually afford. Which means you can spend your hard earned money on something else, like a vacation or something and still look and feel like a million bucks.

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal to me!

Get your wedding bands at Tungsten Rings Online and get beautiful rings that will last and last and won't put you into debt.

October 17, 2009

Books You Can Sink Your Teeth Into - Food For Fitness, Living Off the Grid & Geek Goddess!

Now that the cooler weather has arrived, I've settled in fall/winter mode - cups of tea to keep warm after dinner, cooking up a storm of comfort dishes (like meatloaf, cornish pasties and roast chicken/vegetable dinners), and hunkering down into good books that delve into subjects that might be of interest.

I thought I'd share some of the titles with you. Lemme know what you think!

**Food for Fitness by Anita Bean**

Everyone I know, it seems, is running marathons or training for something. People are reaching for their fitness goals, which I think is so fantastic. And this is just the book to go along with it.

Anita Bean's Food for Fitness gives you everything you need in order to not only be in top form, but healthy and strong as well. There is a nutrition guide, a training diet section, what to do before and after training and information about sports supplements, nutrition strategy for competitions and recipes to help you along the way. It's like having a personal trainer and nutritionist right by your side the whole way!

Anita is more than qualified to write this. She is one of the UK's top nutritionists and has written and contributed to many books on fitness and nutrition, with a specialization in sports.

And the best part? It's written and presented in a really approachable manner with tons of vibrant photos, so you don't have to feel like you've got to have a degree in kinesiology or food sciences in order to understand it.

It doesn't take long to get through and you can start implementing changes right away. Just think, you can be on your way to being healthier and more fit in just a matter of moments.

So, what are you waiting for?!

**Living Off the Grid: A Simple Guide to Creating and Maintaining a Self-Reliant Supply of Energy, Water, Shelter, and More by Dave Black**

A lot of people are leaning towards what they call "living off the grid." But how does one go about it? What's involved?

This book is a handy guide that will explain everything. Do you want to start a farm or just turn your city life into a more sustainable one? No matter what your goals and budget, you can start to live a life that doesn't contribute to global warming or adding to the current economic strife!

The author, Dave Black, is a consultant in emergency planning and disaster response so he knows whereof he speaks. He writes about shelter and energy as an expert, but in a manner that is completely understandable. He explains water and waste in a way that will have you explaining it to others and even includes case studies in the book to give you a real look at how people are making the transition.

He walks you through every step of the way with confidence, but never talks down to the reader. He patiently describes every thing and thanks to this and the layout of the book, it makes it all seem extremely manageable. You will finally understand conservation, energy yse, water systems, shelter systems and self-sufficiency. And if you get stuck, there is a huge glossary at the back to help you navigate your way through terms like accumulator, gray water and R-value.

And he explains how you can go from doing small, manageable things right now like adding more insulation to your home to lower utility bills and use less energy to bigger projects such as building an eco-friendly log cabin!

So, if you've ever considered living off the grid, you really should read this book. And if your only concern is reducing your footprint within the home you currently have, the suggestions here within are worth the affordable price of the book!

**How to be a Geek Goddess: Practical Advice for Using Computers with Smarts and Style by Christina Tynan-Wood**

Author Christina Tynan-Wood says, "I decided to write this book so that I could answer the questions my girlfriends asked me about technology at once. Women are working, raising kids, taking care of parents, and running businesses as well as home. They need time-saving and organizing tools, but they also need to grasp technology in order to help their kids navigate it."

Pretty great idea, don't you think? And talk about filling a void!

She discusses whether to buy a PC or Mac and then exactly how to go about it (consider RAM, hard drive, monitor, etc). Step-by-step.

Awesome.

She talks tech in a simple way so that you get it and explains backups and includes screenshots so you know what to look for.

She does girly things like tells you where to get pretty wallpaper and how to shop online, but also fills you in on setting up your home internet and going wireless (your computer, not your bra, but hey, that's not a bad idea... ). She even touches on accessories like digital cameras and radio, which is nice. And there is a huge last chapter dedicated to love online, which you may or may not want/need.

So basically, if you're of the feminine persuasion and you need help navigating your way around your computer - on and offline - this is the book for you.

Guys, you can read it too. But be prepared for some talk off shoes and purses between advice about ethernet and email!

October 16, 2009

Get the Right Equipment for the Job with RadaPro, Victorinox Swiss Army & HC Colour

I am always looking for solutions to do things faster, better, stronger... sorry Kanye, but it's true!

After all, we only have so many hours in the day and I want to spend a lot of those with fmaily, friends and doing the things I love.

So I've sussed out some amazing products that allow you to do what you need to do in as little time as possible - and have some fun while you're at it!

**Get a Professional Manicure at Home with the RadaPro Nail Station**

Usually when I do my nails, it's beside my laptop on my tiny little desk. There is a small space between my computer and my planner and I squeeze my hand in between the two. And with my toes, I literally bend over in my office chair and do them in a kind of haphazard downward dog pose. It's not very elegant, let me tell you.

That's what I love about the RadaPro Nail Station - it's like having a salon setup in your very own home!

And you can do your nails comfortably for once, thanks to a hand/foot support stand that comes with 100% cotton slip covers.

Ahhh, that's much better!

And not only will you have all of your supplies easily at hand with this little caddy complete with accessory tray, but there a pump bottle for polish remover (just like the pros use!) and the polish holder can be moved to any position (or detached if you wish), making doing your nails at home a complete dream.

**Carry Your Items Safely & Effortlessly with Victorinox Swiss Army's Teardrop Mono Sling**

Victorinox Swiss Army is celebrating it's 125th year in business. The brand has come along way since the introduction of the Swiss Army knife in 1909 - now it includes fragrances, cutlery, clothing and my favourite, durable travel gear that also looks great.

The company has created an Anniversary collection of travel and lifestyle accessories that offer
"unmatched protection, superior organization, packing efficiencies and security solutions. Having essential accessories is about having the right tool for the task at hand."

And the Teardrop Mono Sling is a perfect example of that.

The padded shoulder strap sits comfortably across your body, keeping your hands free and the bag secure. The strap includes an invisible zippered pocked so that you can keep your cellphone, mp3 player or money and ID safe and secure. There is also a front zippered pocket and another pocket so that you've got easy access to the things you need when you need them.

The back is soft to the touch and also padded, ensuring that your bag is comfortable at all times - crucial not only in your very busy day-to-day life, but especially when you're traveling.

The main compartment is big enough for your wallet, phone, keys (a key fob has been thoughtfully added, so no more scrounging), a paperback and notebook and there's a loop at the top should you want to take it off and carry it (like through customs, etc.).

In other words, it's been designed to make your life easier, to carry what you need with you without imposing itself upon you.

Which is exactly what we've needed this whole time (and it comes in 3 classy colours).

Happy Anniversary, indeed!

**Get Salon Highlights at Home with the HC Colour Fantasies Kit**

I have been colouring my hair outta boxes and bottles since I was 13. A long, long time ago.

And what I've learned is all of that time is go for the quality product each and every time because you will pleased with the results.

And that's what I like about the HC Colour Fantasies Kit - it gives you the results you'd get at the salon, but without the exorbitant price, time or hassle that comes with going to your hairdresser.

And of course, the ease of use, because Lord knows I'm no expert when it comes to trying to pretty myself up. This "mistake-proof kit" has everything you need to highlight your hair professionally:

- a patented highlighting tool (it looks strange, but it works!)
- applicator tips
- colour solution
- colour cream
- bleach booster
- pintail comb
- HC Colour Locking Cleanser and Conditioner
- protective cape
- gloves
- hair clips
- instructional styling guide
- DVD

And basically, you follow the instructions, colour only the strands that you want to and wash and rinse to reveal a whole new you.

It really is that simple.

And at only $29.95, it's damn affordable too!

October 15, 2009

Get Organized In a Snap with Pam Socolow's Family Facts On-The-Go Planner!

In my job as an author, freelance writer, restaurant reviewer - and all other things that a young lady in the city wants and has to do - I have to be on top of everything. What has to be done and when.

I bet you are much the same.

That's why I think having a planner and organizer that works with you and your crazybusy lifestyle is ultra important.

I carried around a Filofax with me everywhere from 1989 to about 2003. I got purses big enough for it to fit into. It had my plans, my lists, my everything.

It's been a long time since I found something as portable and as detailed as my former system - I found it in Pam Socolow's Family Facts On-The-Go 2010 Organizer & Planner.

There are a lot of things to love about this planner:

- it's portable
- the clear vinyl, waterproof cover keeps the pages protected
- the six-ring binder means you can lay it flat to write comfortably for once!
- it gives you 16 months of weekly calendars, so you can plan ahead and keep organized
- there are fill-in sheets to save you time and worry, such as contacts, babysitters, spending tracker and lots more useful info pages
- you can organize it how you like - there are 3 tabs: calendar, contacts, lists - so set it up how it best works for you!
- stickers! awesome!
- there are fantastic folders, pouches and business card holders - you know you're going to use these
- there's a pretty pen and holder, which means you don't have to go scrounging at the bottom of your purse when you need to write something down
-it's damn affordable ($14.95 US/ $17.95 CAN)

I also really appreciate the clean design of the pages. The light green and blue lines with lots of white space allow you to write down the things you need to do, to remember. And there are little tear away corners so that you can always access today's date to see what's up right now.

And the best part? You can start using it before the end of the year, unlike most planners (it starts Sept 2009 and goes until Dec 2010).

Which means, by the time most people think about getting their 2010 organizer, you'll already have yours filled out, stickered to the max and all of your goals laid out (thanks to the Yearly Goals page), thankyouverymuch.

Our lives are too busy, too complicated not to be organized, don't you think? Pam Socolow's Family Facts On-The-Go 2010 Organizer & Planner is a great, affordable way to do it.

I think your Christmas shopping just got a little easier this year...

October 14, 2009

Transform Your Skin with Somme Institute's 5-Step Regimen!

Normally, I am not a fan of multiple step skincare systems.

My perception is that they take a long time and a lot of effort and the last thing I want to be doing first thing in the morning is spending a lot of time in front of the mirror.

However, all of that changed once I used Somme Institute's 5-Step Regimen.

And it's all thanks to the simple use of coloured dots.

See, normally with a system that requires you to use more than one product, you have to read and reread the instructions on the bottles and jars - do you use the toner before or after the cleanser? I think it's a pain.

But Somme Institute was smart in implementing the coloured dots system. They give you a legend with the coloured dots arranged in the order that you use them. The 5-Step Regimen
includes:

Step 1 - Blue - Nourishing Cleanser
Step 2 - Purple - Transport
Step 3 - Orange - Serum
Step 4 - Green - A-Bomb
Step 5 - Pink - Double Defense | SPF 30+

It is so easy to follow and I got into the rhythm of it in no time. And the best part? This skincare system transforms your skin into the supple, youthful skin that you had long ago!

Somme created an exclusive Molecular Dispersion Technology 5 [MDT5], which is a formulation of 5 highly-engineered vitamins (A, B3, B5, C and E) that are highly concentrated and shown to not clog pores.

What I love about it is that everything feels and smells good. It is actually a pleasure to cleanse and moisturize your skin in the morning and before bed. And the results are phenomenal. While using this system, my skin was renewed and I looked like I'd had the best sleep of my life (I most certainly had not). The difference was so notable that shopkeepers told me what beautiful skin I had.

And it's never felt softer than with Somme Institute's 5-Step Regimen.

So not only does it look good, but it feels good too.

And for me, that makes it an exceptional line that I will forever cherish, use and spread the word about.

Try it and see for yourself.

October 13, 2009

Discover One-of-a-Kind & Limited Edition Eco-Friendly Jewelry by Mollie Dash!

It's been a busy birthday month for me.

Friends all over the world are celebrating their birthdays in October, which means I've been on the lookout for extraordinary gifts that stand out from the crowd - and yet, don't cause me to take out a loan.

I found everything I was looking for in Mollie Dash Jewelry!

What I love about it is that old world pieces have been sculpted into modern works - affordable pieces of wearable art.

Mollie Dash creates these amazing pieces from her home in Brooklyn out of "discarded, thrifted, donated, and yard sale-derived materials."

She really reduces her footprint by carefully selecting what she uses. She says:

"I prefer metal over plastic. I like to pick things up off the street. I use a minimum of new stones. I use cotton and linen cord, rather than leather. I make things last. In packaging I use a minimum of new materials. I reuse boxes and packing materials such as tissue paper, newsprint, newspaper, and magazines. I accept little packaging when I purchase my materials. I live by the credo reduce, reuse, recycle."

There are 4 collections on her website to shop from - Classic, Summer, Vintage and Sale.

I got the Limited Edition Tri-Tone Bracelet (pictured above) from the Classic Collection, which blends silver, gold and copper together. The large scalloped silver links sit on the top of your wrist while the smaller gold links are on the other side. Copper links it all together.

So amazing and original and handmade AND affordable.

Who knew jewelry could be like this?!

I think your key chain says a lot about you. I've had the same one for over a decade and was looking for a change. But it had to be something special. Really, really special.

The Limited Edition Afgani Key Chain is really something. An afghani dowry coin hangs from a vintage silver-plated chain and is connected by a handmade copper link.

Because so much of Mollie's work is one-of-a-kind and limited edition, chances are you're going to get items that few people have. Which means you'll stand out from the rest of the crowd. I got a beautiful heart key chain and gold, silver and copper necklace that aren't on the website - you'll just have to take my word of how spectacular they are.

And isn't that just kind of thing that you want not only for yourself, but as gifts for your nearest and dearest?

I suggest you bookmark this site and make it your go-to place for extraordinary birthday, anniversary, Christmas and whatever kind of presents.

I have.

I heart Mollie Dash. And I think you will too.

October 12, 2009

Make Stand Out Meals with All Spice Cafe Gourmet Hot Sauces!

Want to make spicy fare that stands out from all the rest? All you need are All Spice Cafe Gourmet Hot Sauces!

What's amazing about these award-winning sauces is that you don't have to add anything else to them- they are bold, so they are indeed spicy and the flavours that build and develop as you eat (unlike those cheap ones that just make your eyes and nose run and have no flavour).

I used Chipotle Garlic on our steaks. I coated them a couple of hours before cooking and I've gotta say, they were better than many steaks we've had in restaurants. The blend of chipotle, garlic and cayenney made for juicy, smoky and spicy meat. Mmm!

The Cayenne Habernero Sauce is super hot, which is why it's often used on wings, but I dressed a meatloaf with it - oh my goodness was it amazing. I am tempted to call this my "meatloaf secret ingredient" from now on!

The most surprising one for me was the Caribbean Spice Sauce. I say surprising because it was so unusual and flavourful that despite the kick of heat, I could not stop eating the wings I'd doused with it! The blend of jerk seasonings like allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, garlic and onion really make a potent but beautiful statement and really could be used with just about any meats seafood, or vegetables.

All Spice Cafe Gourmet Hot Sauces really are a notch above the rest. All you need is to pour these over whatever you've got going in the fridge and you're guaranteed to have a memorable meal!

October 07, 2009

Change Purses in An Instant With the Transfer Bag from Accessories By Joann!

Now that it's really fall (you can tell by the dark mornings, the cravings for pot pie and mashed potatoes and the switch from bare legs to tights), you'll want to change purses.

But don't you find it a hassle?

I don't know about you, but no matter how much I try to consolidate or reduce the amount I carry around with me, I still have a ton of stuff that I feel I need to keep with me.

Currently I'm lugging around:

my keys, wallet, smartphone, headset for smartphone, notebook and a couple of pens, kleenex, gum, lip balm, lip gloss, mp3 player and headphones, enzyme pills (because I eat out for a living and having lamb 5 days in a row is harder than you think), hand sanitizer (I almost never use it, but it does come in handy when there's no soap in the bathroom...), bandages (these were great during the summer months when I was switching in and out of various strappy heels), business cards, grocery shopping list and a coupon for a roast chicken.***

So you can see why I'd be hesitant to have to take all of that out only have to put it into another, perhaps even smaller bag than I'm carrying around...

That was until I found The Transfer Bags by Accessories by JoAnn!

These beauties allow you to keep all of your belongings organized while in your purse, tote, hobo - whatever kind of bag you're carrying - as well as making the switch from purse to purse an absolute dream. Just remove The Transfer Bag from your current bag and place in the bag you want to switch it to. It really is that easy!

And just think - you can finally use all of those purses that go unused and unloved season to season because before, it was just such a hassle to transfer the contents from one to another.

You can choose between 3 sizes- thank goodness, because what girl has bags that are all one size?! - and different materials and sizes. There is a built-in cosmetic bag, complete with a rhinestone-embellished zipper pull. Inside the bag, elastic pockets hold all of the contents securely and all in one place, which is way more than you can say about the current state of your purse. And there is a key loop, so that you can actually find your keys for once, which means you don't have to be one of those people fumbling through your huge satchel, hunting for your beloved keys while you hop from one foot to the other, desperate to get in the house and pee or open the car door, etc. Yeah, you know what I'm talkin' 'bout.

Get something that works for you and your purses. Do you like understated, but classic prints? Then the Black & Brown Satin Classic Transfer Bag is for you. A patterned bag with black, brown and grey satin swirls is a deep, dark rich choice. Think wood-paneled rooms and those green desk lamps that make everything seem so quaint. This one comes with a wraparound handle that you can both detach or make longer.

Made of 100% satin, this is truly a luxurious choice.

And for the more modern gal, the Handle-It Classic Black Faux Leather with Gold Metallic Interior is the way to go! This thick, luxe bag really looks and feels like leather and is soft to the touch. You'll love using this one!

And if you want to add a little glam to your current bag, get the Metallic Transfer Bags.

Finally you can get your purse in order and when you're in the mood to change bags, you can do it quickly and easily.

Just imagine all the purses and bags you'll discover that you haven't used in ages because it's just been too much of a pain to switch the contents.

It's not the same as getting new ones, but almost!

*** tell me what you've currently got going on in your purse!

October 06, 2009

Beautiful, More Youthful Skin Can Be Yours with Dr. Semel Skin Care Products!

I always think that if a plastic surgeon has created a skincare line, it's got to be pretty good. After all, their goal is to make your skin appear as youthful as possible.

And with Dr. Semel Skin Care Products, you will see your skin transform from "ehh" to "oh my god" in just the first day or two!

Take the Eye Repair, for example. This beige cream is packed with botanical tighteners, so whether you up late writing to deadline or out all night with friends for Nuit Blanche, you will awake to looking refreshed and perhaps even a little younger. And if you use it regularly, it will "stimulate cellular regeneration," which means you'll look more like a gossip girl than a desperate housewife.

And in case you're worried about it being all chemical-y and full of scary ingredients, you can relax. Dr. Semel uses phytoestrogens, enzymes, Retinol, Omega-3 lipids, and vitamins B5, B6, C and E for his Eye Repair, so there's no chance of Joan Rivers eyes here.

Timelapse G is what Dr. Semel calls Botox Alternative Wrinkle Cream, so you've gotta know you're going to get results. And what is remarkable about this sweet-smelling cream is that it smooths your skin while filling in your wrinkles (with hydrolyzed sesame protein of all things!). INSTANTLY. And then it works to improve your skin the more you use it.

At only $30 a jar, it is an affordable and safe alternative to any surgeries that you may be considering and a way to reverse the signs of aging without dishing out hundreds of dollars for various creams and lotions that may or may not work.

And for the ultimate in convenience, the Timelapse Wand is also a Botox Alternative. It diminishes your fine lines in a portable wand that you can keep in your purse for quick touch ups. You can also work those bags under your eyes with this little beauty, which on days like this, you need more than ever!

Look, nothing's going to make you look 23 again, but these products from Dr. Semel are going to give you a youthful look that will have your friends wondering whether you've got something done or not.

Don't worry. I won't tell. It can be our little secret...

October 02, 2009

Get A Chemex Coffee Maker and Leave the Bitterness Behind!

I have a coffee each and every day.

Sometimes two, but most definitely one. And while I would not call myself a coffee snob, I will say that the one thing I can't handle in my coffee is bitterness.

You know what I'm talking about - that sour taste in your mouth, that pang in your stomach from the acidic nightmare that you're about to encounter.

So when I heard that Chemex Coffeemakers were designed to make a mellow brew, I was pretty excited.

And then the box arrived and I unpacked the most beautiful vessel! No wonder it's in the permanent collections of the MOMA, Smithsonian and Philadelphia Museum of Art!

Not only is the top and bottom all one sexy, hourglass piece, complete with a beautiful polished wood collar and leather tie, there are no extra parts to futz with. The only addition are the high quality filters that allow you to dispose of the grounds easily.

Chemist Peter Schlumbohm created this beauty to make "clear, full-bodied coffee - free of undesirable fats, oils, sediment and most of all... bitterness."

And with the 8 Cup Classic Series that I have, Peter thoughtfully put a little glass bubble at the 4 cup mark so that I can make half or a full pot depending on how tired I am or how many morning guests we have. It's a small thing, but what a nice thing.

The first time I made coffee for my guy, he was astonished by how mellow the coffee was.

We've been having it that way every since.

Get yourself one and then get 'em as gifts. You'll be the most beloved person this holiday season.