Look Like You've Just Come Off The Fashion Show Runway in Prtty Peaushun

It's not a dress or even an outfit.

This right here, folks, is Prtty Peaushun Skin Tight Body Lotion.

Now before you go and start thinking that you've seen it all when it comes to lotions, think again. 

This revolutionary lotion is more like a Hollywood veil. It's what makes you look more Kardashian than office worker. It's what makes you stand out from the crowd. 

Bethany Karlyn took her skills as a celebrity makeup artist and created a skincare lotion that takes you from regular gal to being in the spotlight.  Light-reflecting particles give your skin this glow, this sheen, that makes you look, I'm just going to say it - fantastic!

Your skin is suddenly flawless. My unsightly varicose veins on my legs disappeared, my cellulite seemed to smooth out completely and because of how the light catches the lotion, you get this outline, this silhouette that seems much more dramatic than your own.

But it's you.  It's all you!  That's what makes Prtty Peaushun Skin Tight Body Lotion such a miracle product. There's no padding to wear or exercises you have to do.  It's all you, but the best possible version!

And it gets better.

Using a blend of natural plant extracts, it lifts, firms and tightens your skin as well as minimized bruising and sore muscles!

So now you not only look better, but you feel good too.

Holy #@!*%

It's natural (with 92% natural raw ingredients such as Japanese green tea extract and avocado oil) and fragrance free, formulated without DEAs, GMOs, parabens, petrochemicals, pthalates, propyl alcohol, propylene glycol, sulfates, synthetic dyes or fragrance, talc, toulene, triclosan, or animal products.

I told you it was amazing.

I am pretty fair, but the Medium was perfect. I got a deep glow without looking fake or made up.

Rock the runway EVERYDAY with Prtty Peaushun Skin Tight Body Lotion and show off your skin!

Celebrate the Warm Weather With Pretty New Sandals from Oka b. Shoes

Here it is the last week of August/first week of September and I'm sweltering over here.

I think September and maybe even October are going to be hot.  

Which means, that you probably don't want to keep wearing the sandals you've been sweating in all summer.  

Ew.

Oka b. makes shoes that are fashionable, yet comfortable. A little massage while you walk?  Absolutely, thanks to massage beads! Ease of walking?  Sure thing! Reflexology and ergonomics have been utilized in the design on the shoe to give you real lift and support while you walk, as well as helping with your posture.  All that in one shoe? 

Yep.  It's true.

This spa-styled line is 100% recyclable, waterproof, made in the USA and priced at $40 or under.

And because of the unique material used - Microplast - they are about antimicrobial and washable, so that no matter how hot it gets, you always have clean, fresh-smelling sandals!  That means you can wear 'em to the gym, spa or out on the town and you'll be protected from mildew, fungus and bacteria.  Those plastic thingy-s from the mall won't do all of this for you.  Just wipe clean and you're good to go.

These amazing sandals are constructed out of one piece, so you know they'll live up to all you do - walking, standing, dancing, etc. Oka b. shoes are non-slip, non-marking (I've never seen this feature in a shoe before!) and get this - MACHINE WASHABLE!

OMG, right?

And there are so many pretty styles to choose from.

I got Bailey in Copper from the New Winter 2010 Collection. Ooh, they are pretty. Inspired by the Lucy flip flop thong sandal, they go with everything in my closet, from a frilly, frothy dress for a fancy dinner party to capris and tank to walk the neighbourhood with a friend.

Warning - you are going to want a bunch of these because they are so comfortable and work with both your wardrobe and lifestyle.

p.s. And in case that's not enough, they come with a two-year guarantee.

Cook Up a Storm with Fast, Fresh & Green

Having reviewed cookbooks for many years, you get to know the formula pretty quickly.  There is often an introduction about the cook's philosophy and then the recipes which are often divided into parts of the meal (appetizers, soups, etc.) or seasons (summer drinks, fall entrees, etc.).

How refreshing it is to find that Susie Middleton of Fine Cooking has created a unique and incredibly useful cookbook for both beginner and old-hand cooks.

Her cookbook Fast, Fresh & Green: More Than 90 Delicious Recipes for Veggie Lovers has everything you could ever want in between the covers.

Susie tells you how to set up your pantry and what you'll need, how to store your veggies and then she breaks down each way of cooking them - quick-roasting, braising, sauteing (including something call walk-away sauteing!), two-stepping, no cooking, stir-frying and grilling.  She also includes a section on baking gratins (finally someone shows us the art of the bake!).  Brilliant!

With more than 100 recipes for appetizers, snacks, entrees, and side dishes (many of them vegan), you don't have to worry about serving the same ol' same ol' ever again.  There are familiar dishes for sure, but I'm branching out with:

- Silky Braised Fennel in Pink Sauce

- Sauteed Turnips with Ham and Molasses

- Provencal Kale with Chorizo, Pimenton, and Honey

I made Grilled Baby Potatoes with Creamy Lemon Dressing the other night and not only were they great that night, but I served them the next day for lunch to a friend who sang their praises.

This is one of those books that you will no doubt have out at your side constantly.  

And to me, that's what makes it a must-have, classic cookbook.

You've Never Had Licorice Like Natural Vine Licorice!

I have always had more of a salt tooth than sweet.

Gimme pickles, olives, potato chips and licorice over cupcakes, chocolate and pie.

So when I heard about the new all-natural Natural Vines Licorice, I was pretty excited.

Now I can enjoy licorice made with natural ingredients (no artificial flavours, preservatives or high fructose corn syrup) and because there is also no cholesterol or trans fats, I can feel good about indulging every once in awhile. 

What I didn't expect was how fresh and soft it would be - oh my!  And it stays that way, thanks to the smartly-designed resealable bag.  The twists are made into thick, bite-sized pieces, so it's easy to snack on and makes sharing more fun.

The taste, though, is what's going to make you a devotee: 

The Strawberry Licorice Twists evoke strawberries, not that plastic-y, rubber hose taste that you are familiar with with those other, lesser brands of licorice.  And the Black Licorice Twists have the perfect blend of salty/sweet.  

The real testament I think, is that I was having a few Black Licorice Twists and I apologized to my fella about the smell. He has never liked black licorice, despite my repeated attempts to ply him with my beloved treat.  He was intrigued by their fresh scent and actually tried one.  He said it was the best licorice he's ever had.

He might not be a lifelong fan like I am, but that just means that they'll be more for me!

Find out where to get Natural Vines near you.

Lotta Jansdotter Makes For Pretty Mail

No doubt you've seen Lotta Jansdotter designs before.

They are easily recognizable.This Scandinavian beauty creates the most wonderful, whimsical designs that pack a visual punch.  Nature is a big influence on her and she has a real talent for making warm and earthy prints with a modern edge and feel.

She has created a real empire of products - books, fabrics and my very favourite, stationery.

The Notecard Book is a hardcover book that has 24 notecards and envelopes.  It's a fun design - you flip through the book to look through the individual patterns (so many colours and styles to choose from, and so personalized!). Once you've made your selection, you simply remove it along the perforated edge. And don't worry about little jagged edges at the bottom once you've removed it from the binding. The edge is so clean and smooth that your recipient will never know it was once bound in a collection!

Because Lotta Jansdotter thinks of everything, the envelopes are embellished with her designs, and there's a bunch of them to choose from.  It's fun to have so many options!  

And storage couldn't be easier - just place this book alongside your paperbacks.  Its incredibly sturdy cover will keep your cards protected and all in one place.

All that in one product. How cool is that?

And nothing will pretty up your gifts this season like Lotta Jansdotter Labels & Stickers!

There are 200 various shapes, sizes and designs here.  There are hearts and flowers, to and from gift stickers and gorgeous prints that if you're like me, you'll be sticking on your notebooks, binders and calendars.

Ooh, it's so nice to have a gift sticker instead of something you have to tie, glue or tape to a gift and so much fun to use! I've been using them in tons of ways - on a bottle of wine I took to a dinner party, a birthday gift I gave to a dear friend, on some of my file folders that I access a lot and on packages that I am getting ready to send to friends abroad.

Sigh.  Lotta makes pretty stationery that you will get the credit for having and using.

To me, that's the mark a great designer.

Make the Switch to Better For GrownUps Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues

This year I want to make some changes in how I do things.  

I vigorously recycle and compost at home, and donate my clothes on a regular basis.  

But there's got to be something more...

Better For GrownUps has a host of products that can help and their Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues are a great place to start. 

The first to love about them is that they are soft (Fair Trade & Certified Organic cotton), so you'll actual want to use them.  Who wouldn't rather feel sateen against their skin than paper?  And while soft, these little guys are strong, so go ahead and sneeze right into 'em - they can take it!  

The box they come in is smart - your tissues are dispensed just like the traditional ones you've been using up until now, but there is a drawer compartment built into this one, that allows you to discard your used tissues with ease.  Then just toss them into the wash with the rest of your laundry. It's that easy!

You get 12 tissues to start and refill packs are available.  

Switching to Better for GrownUps Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues is a change you can feel good about.

See what else you can do.

Revolution Organics: A Makeup Routine That's Simple - Finally!

The NEW Freedom Collection from Revolution Organics Cosmetics is exactly for I have been looking for - a simple, healthy line of products that I can swipe on and get out the door.

Look, I'm certainly not going to leave the house without any makeup on, but I don't want to spend all morning in front of the mirror either.

Take the Freedom Glow Multi-Tasking Beauty Balm, for instance. 

I love that I can just swipe this huge on my lips, cheeks, eyes - even decolletage if I want - for a sheer hint of colour and shine.  Not only is it a quick hit of colour that I desperately need in the am (especially if I haven't had any coffee yet), but it's incredibly moisturizing.  

What's fantastic is that it isn't hydrating to start and then wears off like most products. Oh no, this one you can feel sinking into your skin and keeping it plump and supple throughout the day - and the heat, smog, smoke and whatever else you and your skin are up against.

And how cool is it that it comes from cold-pressed organic olive oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, beeswax and other 100% pure, natural and organic ingredients?  It comes in 3 awesome colours - peachy Sunkissed, rosy Blushed and the golden tan of Bronzed. No matter what the season, you're going to want to keep this close at hand.

The Lip Balm saturates my lips with moisture too.  It infiltrates my dry, flaky pout with apricot, palm, castor and olive oils, beeswax, shea and cocoa butters and other wonderful natural ingredients.  And you just need a little bit, but it lasts and lasts.  I can air kiss, have my cuppa joe and tell a room full of people about my experiences, all while having smooth, moist lips.

And it gets even better.

Freedom Lip Gloss is one of those glosses that makes you say, "Ooh" as soon as you start applying it.  Jojoba and olive oils, aloe vera and shea butter soften and nourish your lips, but the colours - peach, red and various pinks - go on so beautifully, so flatteringly, you'll wonder how it manages to be so many things in this one slim, sleek container.

USDA Certified Organic.  Free of chemicals, parabens, synthetics, artificial ingredients, and fillers (including water!) and packaged in recyclable, biodegradable materials.  Easy and quick to use, but the results are stunning and long-lasting. 

What are you waiting for?!  I just got you about 25 extra minutes each and every day! 

Go get Revolution Organics Cosmetics and enjoy your freedom from the bathroom mirror!

On Your Feet All Day? You're Going to Looove Polly Foot Primer

It's nearing the end of summer and let's be honest - you've put your feet through a lot: wedges, sandals, pumps, runners...

As much as I wish I had beautiful, smooth feet, I have spent the season walking in various footwear, leaving my feet blistered and beaten.

Oh, I wish I'd known about Polly Foot Primer!

You apply the cream with the thick tube over your toes, heels, underneath your feet if you like.  The beeswax, grapeseed oil, zinc oxide and other soothing ingredients put an instant "comfort zone" between you and your shoes so that you can walk, stand, pace and dance without an ounce of pain.

Just yesterday I wore these green leather pumps that always have rubbed up against the tops of my toes, so while they are damn cute and people always stop to tell me how much they like them, I can't wear them for more than an hour without painful blisters forming.

It didn't happen, thanks to my Polly.

Founder Christina Klein is onto something here - soft, smooth skin without any pain no matter how hard your new shoes or boots are.

You might want to buy this stuff in bulk.

Fall is just around the corner, which means new shoes, new boots.

I'm just sayin'...

Give Your Home a New Look for Fall With Realm Dekor

I get restless when the seasons change.

I want to cut my hair, rework my seemingly static wardrobe and change things here at home.

Thanks to Realm Dekor, I can make things feel new again with just a few, very inexpensive purchases.

To refresh my look for fall, the City Bag oughtta do it.

This is a new shape for bags. It feels both modern and retro all at once, doesn't it? And you're going to love the soft black leather - it goes with everything and gets better the more you use it (good, because you're really going to use it). There is just enough room for your essentials and a back pocket with zipper closure to keep your belongings secure.

All for only $20? Maybe you should get a couple...

To change things up here at home, I started with the DVD Light.

I love the idea of being able to change your environment to your mood. This DVD allows you to "play" 8 different colours. Why leave your flat screen all dark when it can be blue, pink, etc? And I love the idea of playing it at our next party. It's your own art installation, all at an unbelievably low price!

The realistic Sleep Like a Rock Pillowcases adds oomph and edge to your tired looking bedroom.

These are super king size, so you can make a kind of headboard outta them. Much better than that microsuede thing that you got when you first moved in - ew.

These two sided pillowcases allow you to sleep on the rock side, or plain black. And because they're 75% cotton, 25% polyester, you can look like you're sleeping on bedrock and sleep comfortably.

I think these make a great gift.

And to really jazz up our space, the Miami Accent Throw is purrfect. I love it for so many reasons:

1. What a totally hot colour. Seafoam green faux fur is so much hotter than that cream or chocolate brown one you've been using. Really. That's so last year, people!

2. Oh, it is uber soft. There is nothing I love more than cozying up in bed or on the couch under a soft, plush, warm blanket. Mmm.

3. It can be shared with Cosmo.

4. This beauty is only $20!!!!!!

Stock up for birthday, anniversary and Christmas gifts at Realm Dekor. You'll get completely original, luxe items at prices that you can actually afford!

The changing of the seasons never looked so good.

The Knack Celebrates 4 Years!!!!

Four years ago, I started this blog because magazines were covering the same products over and over and independent designers and companies couldn't get a word in edgewise.

I knew there was a ton of exciting stuff out there, but it was just a matter of scouring the earth to find it and then spread the word.

I've been doing that here every day for the last 4 years.

I wrote about the process, the products precariously piled behind our bedroom door and what kinds of fascinating things I've found over the years in my book, The 30-Second Commute: A Non-Fiction Comedy About Writing & Working From Home.

There are a lot of people writing about products these days, but I am different than those who simply promote products through the copy they've received via press release:

Everything on the knack that I write about is tried and tested by me. That way, you get more than a company's propaganda - you get a real experience with the product. I tell you how it smells, looks, works and feels.

I try to write about products and services that you may not know about or things that will improve your life. Not everything is independent, but I do try to write about things that aren't being covered in magazines and on other blogs and websites.

You will always receive my honest opinions and thoughts and no one can buy my favourable reviews. They come by my carefully selecting products and then trying them.

Many thanks for reading and your ongoing support. Many thanks to all of the companies who send me their amazing, often life-changing items.

I do not get any money for this venture, but I absolutely love what I've built the knack into. I am so proud to have come this far, but there is still so much that I want to do - stay tuned for a new look, new features and of course, new products!

Sign up to get it delivered to your inbox each and every day.

Warmest wishes and big hugs,

Stephanie Dickison
Publisher & Editor of the knack

Stay On Top of Things With Sukie Perpetual Calendar

How did it get to be the middle of August already?

Time is passing quickly and it's only 2 weeks until school starts. You're going to need something to keep you on top of things during this frenzied time.

But you don't want something boring and corporate looking from an office supply box store. You want something that brings personality and whimsy to your space!

Sukie Perpetual Calendar is the perfect way to keep your days straight and brighten up your office cubicle.

I mean, how you can not smile when you've got a tree house on your desk?!

Be Fashionable and Savvy With Teething Bling by Smart Mom Jewelry

My Mom has beautiful hair.

So beautiful that she gets stopped on the street, running for a bus or in the doctor's office.

Apparently when I was a baby, I would not stop tugging at it, so she cut it short. And kept it that way (probably mostly out of habit) until just a few years ago.

So I can see why my friend who is pregnant might want to switch from her Tiffany bracelet to Teething Bling by Smart Mom Jewelry.

Made from the same material as most teething toys, their pendants and bangles are safe for babies to chew on (products are non-toxic, phthalate, BPA, PVC, latex and lead free) and all pendants come with a breakaway clasp as an added safety measure.

Those without kids might scoff and say that kids should be taught not to chew on their mother's jewelry and what kind of child does that?!

Just yesterday I saw a kid almost pull her Mom's earring off - with almost part of her ear with it.

And no one's saying that you have replace your jewelry forever. Maybe just during the teething stage is all...

I like the simple design of the pendants (solids and patterns) and their coordinating bangles - gift sets are also available.

Thinking about the classic styles my friend favours, I chose Jade, which looks straight from the Far East and will go with everything.

Finally, a baby gift for both Mom and child, and one that you know will get used.

And no need to cut your hair short!

Working Class Studio's Journals Make Writing Fun!

Working Class Studio is a division of SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design).

Here you'll find the coolest, most colourful and innovative products. Everything from plates to pillows, stationery to picture frames, you'll find great gifts and things to liven your house.

I am excited about their New Journals for their Fall & Holiday 2010 Collections. There are 5 designs to choose from.

I selected the whimsical Buttons, but they are all so darn pretty, you should probably just get one of each. You know, just to be safe....

Printed using soy ink on post-consumer waste recycled paper, these journals are just what the urban commuter needs - cute, but practical. The soft cover may lead you to think that it's not up to the task of being toted around, but the elastic band closure ensures that all of your 96 pages remain intact during travel.

The size - 6" x 8" - is great for stashing in your bag as you run out the door (it seems to know how busy you are, but understand that you simply must write down what's on your mind), but not too small that you have to cram all of your brilliant thoughts and ideas into a tiny little thing where you can't read anything you've written and your hand cramps and then you stop using it because it's too inconvenient.

Nope, this is the perfect size and with such strong black lines, you might not have the neatest handwriting, but at least your writing will be in a somewhat straight line for once.

It's everything you could want in a journal.

Which is exactly what you look for when looking for a journal...

Sky-Friendly Skincare - Have Plump, Supple Skin in the Air and On the Ground!

Aren't you tired of the effects that traveling is having on your skin?

The re-circulated air that leaves your skin feeling dried out and papery, the lack of moisture you can feel under your eyes and on your lips - ugh. You can feel pretty gross by the end of a flight.

That's why you're going to go gaga for the Air Repair Kit!

Created by Denise Spanek, this is "the only system available in the market specifically created to combat the effects of flying and environmental changes that are directly related to one’s skin."

But don't think it is an "air only" system. I've been using it here on the ground and just last night, my fella told me my skin was "beautiful," so there's your proof it's good for any altitude!

The Kit includes 5 essential components that contain powerful ingredients in which to retain your skin's moisture and help your skin adjust to different climates (so if you're planning on mountain climbing, sailing, etc., you'd want to make sure you tuck this into your well-worn travel gear).

Check 'em out:

- Your seatmate is going to be so jealous! Complexion Quenching Facial Mist helps you and your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated during a long flight.

- Soothing Facial Cleansing Milk that uses chamomile and arnica extracts to soothe and clean your skin. It even removed my stubborn mascara!

- They don't call it super hydrating for nothing - this awesome Eye Cream will make you look and feel like you've had a good night's sleep instead of what you actually did (up at 3 a.m. to get to the airport, packed your bags, etc.).

- My favourite product of the bunch. Beauty Balm is one of those creams that is light and penetrates quickly, yet you can feel your skin being constantly nourished all day/night long. My skin is smooth, plump and completely even. Sigh. I can't wait 'til they create one of these for the body...

- And because your lips and hands will no doubt dry out and crack from the lack of air in the cabin, you'll want to keep your Rescue Balm close at hand (pocket, purse or carry-on oughtta do it). If you're anything like me, you'll start referring to this as your lifesaver.

Oh, and it all comes in a clear travel bag, so that you can breeze through security and access what you need once you're up among the clouds.

You can also buy all of the components separately.

Make it an Occasion to Remember with the Bon Appetit Celebrations Deck

From now on, I'm throwing as many dinner parties and occasions to get together as I can.

I've realized that the two things I want most is:

1. To spend time with friends and family
2. To cook and feed people simple, but wonderful food.

And one of the best ways I've found to do that is with Bon Appetit Celebrations Deck: 50 Recipes for Special Parties and Happy Holidays All Year Long.

There is much to love about this little box o' cards.

First of all, it's really easy to plan out your party course by course - you simply lay out the cards!

You can turn them face down so that the rich photography tempts your tastebuds, or leave them with the recipe facing up. Will it be Super-Simple Pumpkin Tiramisu or Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes tonight?

The cards are colour-coded for your convenience, so you can mix and match easily and efficiently. And they are also designated with occasions and themes, so you can choose Linguine with Leeks, Radicchio, and Walnut Pesto for your Bridal Shower Lunch and know that it will be bang on for the event you're hosting.

I love how quickly a menu comes together this way. And it's so much fun - and darn easy - using cards instead of having a pile of heavy cookbooks to sift through!

You certainly don't have to throw a Celebration Dinner or "Just Moved" Open House Buffet and follow the cards exactly. Change it up and make it your own.

But when you're stuck and looking for ideas, the Labour Day Barbecue Feta Burgers with Grilled Red Onions and Plum-Almond Crumble with Vanilla-Bean Whipped Cream sure makes for a wonderful menu, doesn't it? And who says you have to wait for Halloween to make Sweet Potato and Sausage Soup and Ginger-Squash Cake with White Chocolate Frosting?!

Throwing an event or dinner party is fun, but a lot of work. The Bon Appetit Celebrations Deck: 50 Recipes for Special Parties and Happy Holidays All Year Long makes it easy to create a wonderful, memorable meal with great ease.

Which means, you'll have more time with your guests, which is why you invited them in the first place!

Get Serious Haircare & Protection with ApHogee

I commit the 3 worst haircare rules every day:

1. I wash my hair every day
2. I bleach it Gwen Stefani blonde so really, it's the texture of hay
3. I blow dry it every day (if you saw what it looks like "naturally," you'd never speak to me again!)

So you can imagine how relieved I was to find ApHogee's Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor.

It addresses all my hair issues - cuticle damage (check), brittle hair (double check) and breakage (oh yeah, check) - all in 2 minutes.

It also works if you swim and have chlorine-logged locks.

I like that it works while I'm in the shower (I love efficiency) and that the concentrated blend of keratin amino acids, botanical oils, and vitamins gets my hair back to normal with just one treatment.

The added bonus? It soothes my irritated scalp (all that bleach and heat has done a number on my noggin).

So I look and feel better, all in 2 minutes flat.

Check out the rest of the ApHogee line and get your hair back to its gorgeous, lustrous self!

Be an Original With Histoire de Parfums

Gérald Ghislain's dream was to create perfumes.

He founded Histoires de Parfums in 1999 and has created "a collection of twelve rare and delicate perfumes."

According to the website:

"Born in the South of France and brought up in Morocco, Gérald grew up surrounded by Mediterranean scents, and refined his palette and nose with gastronomy, learning the art of putting together and distilling savors. As with perfumery and cuisine, the key words of this creator are passion, know-how, exception and creativity. An eminently luxurious craftsman’s grammar, creating aromatic phrases of sharply accurate vocabulary, which enhances the noblest of raw materials."

Of course what intrigues me most, is not just the unique blends he's created and the "library" that he's created, but the role that food and gastronomy play in his concoctions.

I am truly fascinated by 1804. It is such a warm, woodsy, soapy scent that I can't do anything but sit with my eyes close and take it all in. It is so feminine and yet, it has a depth that many perfumes don't reach. Perhaps it's not just what it composed of, but how many elements are at play here: Tahitian gardenia, Corsica peach, Hawaiian Pineapple, clove, Indian jasmine, lily of the valley, rose of Morocco, Sandalwood, patchouli, Benzoin, vanilla and white musk.

I'm going to need just a minute more...

1826 is blissful and somehow, very white smelling. Maybe it's the white flowers. There is an edge of spice (ginger, cinnamon), but it's not startling - instead, intriguing. Bergamot and tangerine tangle with warm vanilla and scents reminiscent of the 60s: patchouli, amber and incense from Jakarta.

Delightful.

1873 is intensely youthful and citrusy. All I can think of when I inhale this scent is sunshine and champagne. Mmm.

I can't get over how unique Vert Pivoine is. It's very clean smelling, with just a hint of whimsical forest.

But maybe it's just the evocative scent of peonies and I don't know my flowers very well...

Chocolate. That's what I get when I take in 1969's rich scent. Lucky for me, it is one of the ingredients (I only got it right because it's food, not flowers) and not overly sweet. And it's pretty darn sexy, to boot.

Histoires de Parfums offers truly unique and unusual scents that you can wear at the office or nightclub.

It is a story in a bottle, but once you wear it, it becomes a story all your own.

Late Night Last Night? No One Will Know Thanks to Marcelle's 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream

My sleep is all over the place this summer.

And I've got the undereye dark circles and bags to prove it.

But thanks to Marcelle's 1st Wrinkles Eye Contour Cream, you won't know about it.

It not only goes to work on dark circles and puffiness, so that I don't scare people on the subway, but it prevents the first signs of aging (read: lines and wrinkles), so I won't scare anyone a year or two from now either.

The formulation of this cream is amazing - it's superlight and silky and there is not one iota of sticky residue afterward. It is such a joy to apply and the best part? It sinks into your parched skin right away, so go ahead and put on your makeup. Marcelle knows you don't have much time to get ready before you have to leave for work...

Your eyes will go from looking like bulging duffle bags to taught and refreshed in a flash.

Seriously.

And for those of you sensitive folks, don't worry - it's hypo-allergenic, perfume free and ophthalmologist tested.

So get on with your day and try and get some sleep.

At least you'll look smashing in the meantime...

Stock Up On Art by Labokoff - Fine Art Prints of Gorgeous Photos

I know that art is subjective.

But I have a feeling that you are going to swoon over the moody beauty of the art prints of Rivory Fabienne at Art by Labokoff just as I did.

There is a stillness and fragility to her scenes, but also great beauty and grace.

She categorizes them for your shopping pleasure by colour and subject - Red Pink Mauve, Neutral Shades, Blue and Skies, Pole Series, Seashore, Bursts of Yellow, A Little Green, White Series and Original Artwork - so now you have no excuse for not being able to find anything to match your magenta guest bathroom!

I can tell you what's going to happen, though.

You're going to buy a bunch of these for presents (they make a wonderful, thoughtful gift, don't they) and then they're going to arrive and you're going to frame them and put 'em up in your own place, because you can't possibly bear to let them go.

I know, because that's precisely what happened to me.

Just look at Abricotier (pictured above) It's a print of an original photograph combined with painting, printed on Hahnemuhle velvet fine art stock using archival pigment ink and signed on the back.

Tell me that you can just give it away.

Nu uh.

Isn't going to happen.

That's why you've got to buy at least TWO OF EVERYTHING here at Art by Labokoff!

I like the quiet sparseness of Pole Rose and the depth and darkness of Pole Prune. And
Pole Orange is so evocative, I think I'm remembering childhood vacations I never took.

I told you these were good.

Buy 'em up, folks, because art like this is worth waay more than you're being charged for and you're going to need at least one for every room.

Ahh, make that two...

Saky Sacks - A Reusable Bag That's Designed With You In Mind

I have come to realize that my reusable bag that I carry everywhere with me, alongside my purse, has to be three things:

- Durable (Read: Strong enough to hold all my library books including heavy cookbooks, grapefruit, and assorted jars and cans of things I pick up along the way)

- Light (Have you seen my purse? It's the size of a Thanksgiving turkey. I don't need any extra weight, thankyouverymuch)

- Oh-So-Pretty (Look, I'm no fashionista, but I also don't want to be carrying around those ugly plastic things that grocery and retail stores shill)

I found all 3 things in Saky Sacks.

Because they use this incredible material - tyvek -you can pack up to 25 pounds of whatever you need to into this little beauty. A clasp on the inside keeps everything from spilling out (your eggs are finally safe!)

The material is ultra lightweight (your tissues will weigh more), small (go ahead and squash it into your already packed suitcase - it will fit, trust me), tear, stain and water resistant and machine washable.

You can toss it into the machine, which means you'll actually use it (who cares if it gets dirty when you can throw it in the wash?).

It's pretty (I got the Suzani Saky - Pink, pictured above) but not too pretty to put to good use.

Just what you needed, wouldn't you say?

Buy a bunch now.

Simple Shoes' Women's Flippee are Pretty, Earth-Friendly and Damn Comfortable

I know that shops are starting to showcase fall clothing, but people, it's going to be hot for months still!

And just have a quick look down at your plastic flip flops - they're pretty gross, right? I mean, you can't really go out looking like that can you?

That's why you've got to get Simple Shoe's Women's Flippee. These Eco-Certified nubuck sandals (with synthetic nubuck straps) are not only fine looking, but they are sooooo comfortable. The egg carton sole gives your feet a little massage with each step you take , and the you can barely feel the strap between your toes- can you say that about those cheap plastic things you're wearing?

And here's the best part - they are vegan and earth-friendly! There are no animal products or even animal byproducts used. In fact, they are so damn environmentally-sound, that you may end up writing to Simple Shoes and request that they start making items for the rest of your closet and things for around the house!

The foam inserts of the shoe are made of post-consumer recycled paper (take that, tax receipts!), the glue that's used to hold things together is water, not petroleum based, the sole of the shoe is biodegradable (in 20 years, unlike plastic ones that can take 1000 years), as is the bag it comes on and the hanger they hang on.

Sigh.

Pretty, sensible, eco and comfortable. And you thought you couldn't get it all in one pair of shoes!

Shop now for the most awesome shoes from Simple Shoes.

Take Your Dinner Party Up a Notch with Japanese Cocktails

I have always loved Japanese culture.

I studied it for about 10 years back in the day and still immerse myself in it whenever I can - yesterday my Dad and I went to the Japan Foundation's Winter Garden Show and right now I'm halfway through a great book about modern Japanese women.

Now I am completely obsessed with Yuki Kato's Japanese Cocktails: Mixed Drinks with Sake, Shochu, Whisky & More.

Cocktail expert Yuri Kato shows you how to find the key ingredients to these most original concoctions in this richly illustrated guide. Even if you've never tried any of the spirits mentioned in the book before, Yuri guides you with engaging, informative and entertaining tips on how to make these exhilarating cocktails. And as a bonus, you'll learn about Japan's rain season, why the Japanese are so smitten with baseball and the oldest Japanese cocktail.

The names alone are priceless (Butter of the Forest, Zen Milk Bath and Meet Me at Hachiko) but you'll see that these libations are completely accessible - you can absolutely make them at home!

I am going to be hosting a lot of dinner parties in the next few months and you'd better believe that I'm going to rock the hell outta this little book!

I simply cannot wait to wow the crowd with Love Hotel, Tokyo Sidecar, Aloe Margarita and many, many more.

Ooh, I'm excited!

In fact, I think I'm going to start working on the menus to match right now...

Fuel Up the Healthy Way with Larabar

Like many of you, I strive to eat a balanced diet every day.

But truthfully, my schedule has been all over the place lately and so eating 3 solid home-cooked meals a day isn't working out so much.

Realistically, I am on the go a lot and so either I skip eating something until I get home (ooh, bad food writer!) or I stop and get something I don't want or isn't good for me (like a bowl of manufactured soup) or a sandwich (which I really only eat because you can consume it while walking - the worst kind of eating, no?!).

I want to eat better, but it's hard when you don't know when the next time you'll have a break in the day.

That's why my new go-to snack is LÄRABARS.

While they are not a meal replacement, these nutritious - and delicious - bars are a healthy snack that gets me through the day.

This blend of unsweetened fruits, nuts and spices is made from 100% whole food, so you don't have to worry about added sweeteners, fillers, supplements or flavours. The ingredients are all things that you know and can pronounce, and the bars are no only good for you, but they are gluten, dairy and soy free, as well as non-GMO, vegan and kosher.

And here's the best part - loading your body with vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, good carbs and healthy fats is actually really tasty, thanks to LÄRABAR's awesome ingredient combinations and flavours!

You don't have to consume energy bars that taste like sawdust or wet kleenex anymore, and you don't have to feel guilty about having Key Lime Pie, Coconut Cream Pie, Lemon Bar or one of their new flavours such as Chocolate Chip Brownie.

Each bar contains less than 8 ingredients, so you can power up healthily whether you're running for your flight or trying to power through your to-do list.

LÄRABARs were made for you and I.

No guilt, just goodness.

Ahh, that's better.

Order a whack of 'em now and get on with your day.

Discover Bodycology's Perfect for Summer Cherry Blossom Collection

Back in March, I wrote about Bodycology's amazing bath and body products.

I have just tried their Cherry Blossom Collection and had to tell you all about it - it's amazing!

The scent is soooo pretty - a little floral, a touch of sweet cherry - and so yummy that you'll be sneaking sniffs of your arms and shoulders throughout the day. At least, that's what I've been doing...

I start my day off with Bodycology's Cherry Blossom Shower Gel & Foaming Bath. The thick, pearly white gel gives a nice rich foam and lather, making you smell good and feel really, really clean. I love how it slides over your skin, hydrating while you go, with good-for-you ingredients like honey and aloe vera.

Right outta the shower, I apply Cherry Blossom Body Cream. I prefer creams that sink right into your skin, which this one most certainly does. Shea butter, aloe vera and vitamins C & E drench your skin with moisture. Just watch those dry heels look smooth in an instant and you'll notice that at no time during the day does your skin suddenly parch, like with those drugstore brands that claim to nourish your skin throughout the day.

Nu uh. Not like this, they don't.

And because the scent really is so intoxicating and enveloping, you'll want to finish layering the scent with Cherry Blossom Body Mist. This delicate spray gives you just a hint of fragrance, not at all overpowering that softens over time. And during this crazy summer weather, it's a nice refresher and cool down from the intense heat.

I told you it was good!

You can buy these all individually or in the 3-Piece Gift Set.

Either way, you're going to love it.

Save $$$ With The Belkin Conserve Surge Protector with Remote Switch

I am always looking for ways to save us money here and there.

Recently, we changed phone providers and bundled services, but we needed to do more.

That's why when I saw the Belkin Conserve Surge Protector with Remote Switch, I knew it was the answer.

As our lives grow more technologically dependent, our home fills up with more things that work of electricity. I have to charge my phone and my camera, I work from home, so my computer's on all the time, and that's just my stuff - my fiance is a technological genius and so has every gadget in the world. It's no wonder our electricity bills are so high.

And just because you're turning something off, doesn't mean that there isn't still power coming out. Belkin explains - "Standby power, also called vampire power, refers to the electric power consumed by electronic appliances while they are switched off or in standby mode."

So, if you're like us, you've probably got a DVD player, printer, something that has a remote and/or digital alarm and power adapters that don't come with an off switch. These are power suckers and drainers that need to be stopped!

And it turns out the typical home has about 40 devices drawing power, so while each one doesn't draw much, when you add all of them up, it's a lot – "reaching up to 22 per cent of all appliance consumption and around 10 per cent of total residential consumption."

The Belkin Conserve Energy Saving Surge Protector with Remote Switch allows you to stop wasting energy and save huge amounts on your electric bills.

Belkin is one of those companies that "get it," so when they design a new product, they do so with the modern person in mind. That's why the Conserve has 10 surge-protected outlets - 8 that you can switch on and off and 2 that remain on. Belkin knows that you need at least that many, and that there are some devices that we'll want to keep on (like your beloved router), and ones we'll want to switch off like the computer, TV, etc.

It's so brilliant, I think that all of our homes should be equipped with one. Or ten.

It just makes sense.

And you'll have a little more money every month.

Just like that.

p.s. Read my other post about one of the best companies I've ever come across, Belkin.

My New Favourite Dinner Party Dessert - Kukkii Organic Wisdom Cookies

We went to a friend's for dinner recently and I took Kukkii Organic Wisdom Cookies for dessert.

What a hit!

Not only are they a crunchy, tasty treat, but they become a unique part of the meal.

After our dinner of bocconcini and heirloom tomato salad, grilled salmon steaks and jasmine rice, our host served us homemade peach ice (oh my!) with coconut macaroons and my Kukkii Organic Wisdom Cookies.

There are 2 flavours available - Lemon and Lavender and Orange and Spice. I brought Orange & Spice, which went nicely with the ice cream, and developed in the mouth nicely. First you get a warm sweetness (perhaps the pure maple syrup that's used?) and then a little nip of heat, which makes for a memorable dessert.

You'll guests will be pleased that there are no refined sugars, preservatives or artificial ingredients used. But they'll be completely tickled by the inspirational messages tucked inside the cookies. We all read ours aloud and then talked about how they applied to us or what we thought about the quote. It was like bringing a game to the party, as well as delicious cookies.

Many of us slipped the little pieces of wisdom into our pockets and purses afterward.

A souvenir of the evening and a little knowledge passed along the way.

How wonderful is that?

Email for how to get them near you!

LA Splash Nail Polishes Are a Fashion Necessity!

I don't know how I came to know about LA Splash Cosmetics, but am I glad I did!

I loooove their Nail Polish.

They are everything you want:

- go on easy and even
- comes off without effort
- lasts despite a week of doing dishes, cleaning the house, putting together furniture and other assorted life stuff
- incredibly affordable (which means, you can get a bunch of 'em)

The colours are really vivid, with a hint of creamy sheen. So sexy!

I was wearing one of the Glitter Polishes interviewing a singer, when she picked up my hand and said how much fun she thought it was.

What a compliment!

And here's one of the best parts: Usually with glitter polishes, they are pretty goopy and go on quite uneven and rough. But LA Splash Glitter Polishes are completely smooth. And looong lasting - I wore it for a week without so much as a tiny chip.

If you're looking for fashion forward nail polishes that stand up to the demands of your life, LA Splash is where it's at!

Colour Your Hair Naturally with Surya Brasil Hennas

I have been colouring my hair for over 20 years now, so you can imagine the damage to my once glossy locks.

But I've recently found a wonderful solution - Surya Brasil Henna Powders and Creams, formulated with 100% plant ingredients. You get the deep, rich colour your long for, without the harmful synthetics and chemicals that you get with drugstore bands.

And henna is known for its moisturizing and restorative properties, so you get the glossy hair that was previously only Hollywood star's domain and you can finally repair all the damage you've done with curling and flat irons, blow dryers and years of chemical colours and products.

Finally!

You'll love that it's semi-permanent, so it was gradually wash and won't stain your clothes, bathroom, etc. and it comes with a packet of 100% natural bee honey to keep your hair looking good.

It comes in many different shades so you can change it up throughout the seasons - red, black, brunette or blonde.

And don't forget to get some Restorative Serum for Split Ends too. You've got a lot of damage control to do on that head of yours.

Surya Brasil is here to help and make you look good - naturally.

Cards and Postcards from Chronicle Books Make Me Happy

As I have grown older, friends have moved afar.

Sigh.

I understand, but I still miss them. And though we are so lucky in the digital age with email and skype, I still love to send a hand-written (messy, but heartfelt) note.

And I have fallen for the cards and postcards from Chronicle Books! Come have a look:

XOXO Hugs and Kisses Postcard Book by James Jean

This is a fantastic, colourful and memorable collection from this artist.

Thirty sturdy, lusciously illustrated postcards offer "half-forgotten dreamscapes and haunting childhood fantasias."

I like these for sending artist friends and those who appreciate something a little out of the ordinary.

Plus, it's clear to them that it's from me and not their Aunt Pearl, know what I mean?

But I'm not sending them all out. I'll be sure to save a few for myself to frame and have in my office. Nothing like a little art to inspire you throughout the day.

The Cutest Sneeze in the World by Jeffrey Brown

Many of my friends have cats, so this collection is purrfect (sorry - couldn't resist) for sending a quick note of thanks, or "thinking of you."

Also, we have Cosmo, so even if they don't have a cat, no doubt they've come to know our fella.

Jeff Brown of the comic, Cat Getting Out of Bag, has created a collection of 30 different postcards (colour and black-and-white) that are not only bang on for all the cute - and annoying - things that cats do, but they are so damn funny.

The recipient will no doubt appreciate the laughs while finding bills awaiting them as well.

p.s. Oh yeah, I'm keeping a couple of these cuties for myself.

Polaroid Notes: 20 Different Notecards & Envelopes Curated by Jennifer Altman

There has been this real resurgence in photography in the past 10 years and there is a real movement for dreamy, light-filled photos that evoke a simpler, uncluttered time.

Polaroid Notes have that same look to them - gorgeous ethereal glossy photos that look like real Polaroids.

And since Polaroid film is no more, what a wonderful way to continue to love of this lost art form!

Closeups of balloons, flowers, breakfast, trees, shoes, an airplane wing, and other wonders of our world are not only wonderful ways to express your thoughts, but frame-worthy too.

(Sigh. Yes, I'll be holding onto a couple to frame to put up in the apartment. You just want to share them with the world. You'll see).

Oh, you'll want to keep the box too.

These collections make me happy. And I try to pass that along to others by sending these out into the world.

I hope it works.