Become An Instant Expert with the Windows® Phone 7 Plain & Simple Book

I love technology, so when I get a new phone or gadget, I can't wait to get right in there and play around.

Not everyone enjoys it as much as I do, however. And really, it can be completely intimidating and confusing if you haven't worked with that type of technology before. 

So if you've got yourself a new Windows phone, I recommend getting a copy of Michael Stroh's Windows® Phone 7 Plain & Simple.

This incredibly fun and easy guide is colourful with tons of screenshots and photos so that you can follow everything step-by-step without fear of getting lost along the way. And thanks to everything being explained without the use of technobabble or computerspeak, you won't feel intimidated or left behind with this guide in your hands.

This book can help you do everything from learning what each key does to setting up your phone and personalizing it. Want to learn how to manage your call history, sort and search through your email, post something to Facebook or get real-time traffic conditions? You can learn all of that here and so much more (texting, working with the calendar, browsing the web, playing music and video, taking pictures and videos, apps, games, Office mobile and how to sync with your PC).

I love that you don't have to read the book cover to cover, if you don't want to. Just pick out the areas you need help with. Of course, if this is your first phone of this kind, a good read from beginning to end might just quicken the process for you.

The print is comfortable enough to read without squinting and really, the annotated, full-colour photos go a long way in getting you the info you need quickly. It's like having a Microsoft IT person right there alongside you.

But on your time, when you want the information.

Is there any better way?

Buy Windows® Phone 7 Plain & Simple and get the most out of your phone.

Come And Celebrate the Season With Calvin Klein's New Fragrance BEAUTY

Calvin Klein's aesthetic is legend. You can always spot his clothing right away: clean lines, natural tones, and fabrics that you can't wait to get yourself into.

Calvin continues his reign with his new fragrance, BEAUTY.

Diane Kruger is the face of the campaign. The Calvin Klein Beauty Woman is described as:

"Authentic and true; she is accomplished and inspiring. She believes in the power of self-knowledge, gained from the life she's lived. At once feminine and strong, she shapes her destiny with a charismatic allure and determined strength. Her true beauty, lies within."

It's nice to wear a fragrance that makes you feel strong and empowered without fear of smelling too potent. The neo-lilly is at the heart of this scent, with a tapestry of jasmine, ambrette seeds and cedarwood.

What is fascinating about it is how its essence is amplified by your own personal makeup. On me, BEAUTY smells light and dewy with a fresh, first-thing-in-the-morning kind of excitement. On my Mom, it smells deep and warm and sensual. So you can rock this scent no matter what your age - it will bring out your own beauty from within!

The design of the bottle is classic Calvin - smooth feminine curves set atop a luxurious glass base. The metallic silver and glass combination is futuristic yet timeless. You will absolutely want to keep this on display. And to further entice you, the Calvin Klein Beauty Solid Perfume Compact (pictured below) is absolutely stunning. This LIMITED EDITION purse charm glides open to reveal a smooth translucent solid and allows you to keep this scent close.

The holidays are upon us. Who wouldn't want a luxe gift such as these?!

Shop the Calvin Klein Beauty Collection, available at The Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, Pharmaprix, London Drugs, Jean Coutu, Murale and Ogilvy.

The Emile Henry Lightweight Flame-Top Stewpot Is a Cook's Dream!

Cooking is one of my joys in life and how I relax, but thanks to carpal tunnel, it can be tough.

Chopping and tossing can really wreak havoc on my hands, but it's about the tools too. I've never had any ceramic cookware - what I deem essential in any cook's kitchen - because they are all way too heavy. I have spent the last 2 decades trying to find cookware that can go both on top of the stove and inside the oven and that I can actually lift. Each season, I truck on out to the kitchen supply stores, lifting various pots and brands, hoping for something can manage. Until now, I have been using 2 pots to cook one dish - a pot on the stove and then a pot in the oven.

That is, until I discovered Emile Henry's Flame-Top Stewpot.

It is a full 30% lighter than all cast iron, which makes it perfect for me or those with arthritis (46 million folks suffer from arthritis and related conditions) and other ailments.

Made from Burgundy Clay, it feels solid, but never unwieldy. And because it's easy to handle - lug handles are easy to grip, even if you're wearing BBQ/oven mitts - I use it all the time! Even with your ingredients filled up inside, it is still manageable to get from oven to tabletop with ease.

Ahhh.

You can make everything in it from soup to cornbread and even use it on the grill ("Unlike metal cookware, the flame-top pot can sit on a very hot open flame, empty, for an extended period of time and it won’t crack, discolor or break.").

As you may know, I love comfort dishes, such as One Pot Dinners. And this is the perfect dish for them. In addition to the clay offering a gentle, even cook, the raised dots on the lid's interior allow the juices to stay in with the food, so you get an exceptional roast, casserole, etc with tender, moist meat.

And just look at how much food I was able to get into the pot (pictured below) - there's 4 chicken legs in here, plus vegetables, wine and stock!

Other than how beautifully it cooks everything, I am thrilled with how easy it is to clean. It's naturally non-stick, so you don't have to scrub it, just simply wipe with soap and water. Or go ahead and throw it in the dishwasher, if you like.

You can use the Flame-Top on gas, electric, halogen, barbeque grills and in the microwave. And here's your holiday saving grace - you can take it from the freezer or fridge right into the oven! 

[Play celebratory angelic choral music here]

I had no idea such an amazing product existed. I can now live like regular folks, cooking up a storm, thanks to Emile Henry's Flame-Top Collection.

Shop it now.

Discover the New SUSY JACK* for Blue Sky Collection of 2011 Calendars & Planners

Well, it's official: It's less than a month until Christmas and just over a month until the new year.

I don't want to get you all panicked (I know you have enough to worry about), but seriously - it's time to get a planner/calendar for the new year!

And I'm swooning over the contemporary look of Blue Sky's NEW Designer Series - SUSY JACK* for Blue Sky collection of 2011 calendars and planners.

I love that this collection is colourful, but not distracting and busy - I mean, I want to be able to see what I write.

The colours are peaceful and soothing, which is just what what you want when you get a look at that insane schedule of yours. Choose from Raspberry Bloom, Periwinkle Cornflower and Green Vines in silhouette on ecru and white backgrounds. Feminine and pretty, but serene. No bright, jarring colours here (thank you for that).

After choosing the colour that pleases you most, choose the size that works with your life. I change it up every year depending on what my work (and desk) are like.

No matter what you select, the durable cover will stand up to you toting it around with you, or the piles of work and cups of coffee that hover nearby on your desk.

 

But no doubt, it will be the clean planning pages that you fall in love with the most.

Susy Connor of Susy Jack* explains her vision for her calendars and planners:

"When I launched Susy Jack* in 2007, I wanted to create simple yet expressive design people would enjoy bringing into their own daily lives. Since then, I’ve received many requests to make a dated planner - but as anyone who has shopped for one knows, calendars and planners are tricky to get just right. Through this collaboration with Blue Sky, I can offer my design style to a broader audience, in a well-considered, well made assortment of dated goods for everyday use. It's a really great partnership." 

My Mom has been carrying a purse-sized planner for years (don't most Moms?), but I think this one, the 2011 Weekly/Monthly Stapled Planner (3.75 x 6.25 11/12), is by far her favourite.  It's because it's so pretty and so easy to use. 

For keeping your family organized at home, the 2011 Monthly Wall Calendar is a dream. My friend Victoria is going to use hers for at the office, so that she can keep her deadlines in plain sight. But there's nothing plain about her calendar...

Ooh, the 2011 Weekly/Monthly Planner 8.5 x 11 is good looking. And so nice and big - finally enough room to write everything down that I need to do! It includes tabbed months, so you can easily look ahead to what needs to be done and when.  There's the weekly calendar to capture my appointments and to-do lists, as well as an overview calendar, quick reference, contacts and notes  pages. I got it in Green Vines. It looks so good on my desk, I just want to use it ALL THE TIME.

That's the kind of calendar/planner you should have. Something you absolutely l-o-v-e. 

Get an entire year of lovely online at Blue Sky, Amazon.com, and at Office Depot stores. 

p.s. These calendars and planners are printed with non-toxic soy based ink on recycled paper containing 60% post-consumer materials.

Jessica Cosmetics Brilliance is High Gloss in a Flash

I put my hands through a lot every week. I cook, do dishes, move furniture, clean the toilet, take out the garbage, shampoo the cat, do the laundry, etc.

So while I wear nail polish all the time and love the look of painted nails, no matter how great the top coat, I usually have to redo my nails every couple of days. A week at the very most.

Until I used Jessica Brilliance.

This super glossy finish has kept my polish looking fabulous and super glossy for 10 days now. I haven't had to redo them for 10 days. Do you know how much time that's saved me? And every time I leave the house, I look down at my nails thinking, Damn, they look so good. How is that possible?

It's because:

1. UV inhibitors and reflective polymers work to keep them from chipping (along with yellowing and smudging)

2. Jessica ROCKS!

And it gets better - this new formula dries quickly so that you don't have to wait around for your nails to dry (thank you!) and you can reapply it through the week, so that you get that extra hit of gloss each and every time. Your nails will look salon professional even though you haven't left the house.

I used to dream about getting those gel nails done - the ones that last 2 weeks without chipping? Now I don't have to, all thanks to this one little miracle bottle.

I love you, Jessica. You have made it possible to live my life AND have fabulous nails that I don't have to fuss over.

Shop Jessica Cosmetics and change your life/nails.

Keep Your Cat Happy With FUNKitty Toys From Premier

Our cat Cosmo is very picky about the toys he plays with.

Really, he doesn't like anything. He does like empty cardboard boxes and bags and the occasional olive or grape that rolls off the table excites him for a few minutes, but it's like living with a moody actor - he just doesn't want to do anything.

So when I saw the FUNKitty series of toys by Premier, I thought, ooh, if we had a different cat, I bet they'd love this!

But despite his occasional grumpiness (it's not his fault - he was mistreated before my fella got him), he is a wonderful guy whom I want to bring much happiness to. So I thought I'd give it a try.

We started with the Twist 'n Treat (pictured above). This awesome little invention is like a spinning top. You unscrew the top part and fill the bottom with treats and/or food. You screw it on, leaving a little opening. The cat then is to bat it around and with enough force, a treat or two will come flying out.

I have to say, Cosmopolitan took to it right away! He's been bunging the thing around for a couple of weeks now and he's still interested in it. This is a first, ladies and gentlemen. Usually he is so over something in a few minutes like a bored teenager rolling their eyes at something you think is cool, but is clearly already lame.

Not only does he like it, but we love it because he's getting exercise while he's playing with it. He runs around the house with it, batting it against the bookshelves and sometimes even under the couch ("I'm coming, Cosmo!").

You can get Twist 'n Treat Teaser that comes with a feather as well.

The Egg-cersizer is similar in design, but different enough that should Cosmo tire of the Twist 'n Treat, we have a backup to keep him from getting cabin fever and from driving us crazy.

And we've got the FUNKitty Doorway Dangler on standby for a little change of pace when Cosmo is looking for attention.

Look, if Cosmo is enticed, this means it's a helluva line, through and through.

Shop Premier's FUNKitty and give your cat a joyous holiday!

Share the Memories This Season with the Kodak EasyShare PULSE Digital Frame

Three of our very good friends are moving away this month.

Not far, but certainly not just a few doors away, like they've been for years.

While we are overjoyed at their new homes and opportunities, it feels a little quiet and sad without them.

A wonderful way to keep them in our daily lives has been the amazing Kodak EasyShare PULSE Digital Frame.

Thanks to built in Wi-Fi and 512 MB of internal memory, you can easily upload photos from your computer and phone via email! I've got a "Friends" folder that I've been putting digital photos in for years. Up until now, they've been on my computer in a file that I rarely look at. Now, these photos are available right in my living room. Oh, look at Ben's long hair at Scott's birthday party years ago! And Darren's of course making faces at the camera. Allana always looks so at peace, even when she's laughing at something someone said.  And our friends Jeffrey and Jonah who moved away a couple of years ago make appearances too. It's so nice to everyone together again!

I can send up to 4000 photos to this beauty of a frame. Which is good, because once I get to the Cosmo folder, it might just fill the whole thing up!

I am also using the feature that allows me to automatically receive new pictured from Facebook and Kodak Gallery albums. I am really enjoying seeing the albums I created on Facebook, because I never revisit them online and I didn't have to spend time uploading the pictures again!

Kodak also smartly allows you to create your own e-mail address for the frame to upload pictures easily from a computer or mobile phone. Then you can share the e-mail address to receive photos from your friends and family.  Sweet.

You're going to love the touch screen with LED backlit high quality display. And it takes up so little room (we have ours on our breakfast bar facing the living room) and yet offers you the chance to revisit friends, places and memories that you've likely long forgotten.

Sigh.

You'll also love the fact that it is super easy to set up - no software to install, no cables to hook up to your computer! Just turn it on and start enjoying your many, many photos (oh yes, I cut my hair short and dyed it red one summer, there's my photo of Anthony Bourdain and I, my Mom sitting in a huge lounge chair laughing....).

The Kodak EasyShare PULSE Digital Frame is available in 7” and 10” for $129.95 CDN and $199.95 CDN respectively at Best Buy, Future Shop, London Drugs, Staples, Black's, The Source, Henry's, Dell, Amazon, Sears and Kodak.ca.

Your holiday shopping just got a whole lot more exciting!

Pucker Up With Leslie Tyler Liplicious Gloss

Some days I don't want to get all gussied up.

But one thing I never leave the house without is lipgloss. I have noticed a real difference in how put together I look when I wear it versus when I don't. It gives you an immediate polish, even when you're rockin' sneaks!

Although I hadn't heard of Leslie Tyler before, I really like the natural look her Liplicious Glosses give. Just look at all these beautiful celebrities - they look fabulous and yet, not too made up. 

That's how I want to look.

With Leslie's Clearly in Love Mint Ultra Glaze (pictured above), I get luscious lips without having to worry about colour bleeding over my lip line or smudging. I look ready for anything.

Perfect!

Shop Leslie Tyler's Liplicious Gloss now.

Want Straight Hair? It's So Easy With Rowenta's Professional Titanium Ceramic Flat Iron!

Not long ago, I wrote about Rowenta's incredible hair dryer.

And now I'm completely smitten with Rowenta's Professional Titanium Ceramic Flat Iron!

I wish you could see the flat iron I was using before this one - oh, it was so heavy and clunky and it used to take me over half an hour to straighten my hair.

With Rowenta's Pro? Six minutes!!

I used it for the night of the bake-off and the pictures just don't do it justice. I've never had straighter hair in my life! People couldn't believe it was my own hair. That's how incredibly transformed your hair will be using Rowenta's Pro. 

p.s. It comes with a sleek canvas traveling case, so you can have it with you whether you're on vacation or traveling for work. Woo woo!

There are 3 heat settings (360 - 410 - 450 degrees F), so you can adjust it depending on your needs.  And the "professional anodized coating" makes it resistant to abrasion, so that your hair doesn't look or feel fried after use. In fact, using my old one, I could always feel how my hair has broken off and completely dried out. After using Rowenta's, my hair is always soft and smooth and that's without using any protective products either!

You are guaranteed to get uniform and consistent heat (read: perfect, smooth results), thanks to the amazing ceramic heating element. That means, that you can flawless hair each and every time! Floating plates automatically adjust to your hair, so if you're like me, where your hair has different styles and textures (mine is crazy curly and then other parts are only wavy), you will get even result sfrom root to tip.

All in a matter of seconds.

And the Rowenta Professional Titanium Ceramic Flat Iron is so versatile that you can curl and flip your hair, in addition to straightening it. Good to keep in mind for all of those upcoming holiday parties...

Get the Rowenta Professional Titanium Ceramic Flat Iron and finally get the straight hair you've always wanted!

Get Organized with Rubbermaid's NEW Modular Canisters

My kitchen is ram-jammed with so much stuff, I can barely move in there without knocking something over.

So when I heard about Rubbermaid's NEW Modular Canisters, I was over the moon - they provide 48% more storage in 31% less space vs. standard canisters!

Which means I can actually buy the pantry items I need and keep things on hand for cooking. 

And who wants everything in cardboard boxes? There was a recent magazine feature article and cover story about Jamie Lee Curtis and her organizing style - she takes as many things out of their boxes and containers and labels containers similar to these, which she feels gives an uncluttered look. I agree!

I got the 8 piece set - perfect for my tiny kitchen.

The canisters keep everything super fresh, so instead of clipping the top of your coffee bean bag or rolling down the cereal bag (we all know that doesn't help), you will never have stale food that you have to throw out. Ever.

 

I really like the size. You have a range from small to large to choose from, so you can store everything from spaghetti to tea bags and grains in bulk. 

I love that you can drop them and they won't break like glass canisters (we have ceramic tile floors in our kitchen!). And I love that finally my pantry looks good and I can see everything and find it in an instant.

Oh, and let's talk about how easy Rubbermaid makes it for you to stay organized:

• One lid fits all containers

• Lid snaps tight to base for a secure seal

• Space Efficient: Stack smartly (side by side), saving space in your pantry

• Clear base to easily see what is stored inside

• Comfortable grip allows you to handle container with ease

• Graduation Marks make measuring easy

• Rectangular, slim design maximizes shelf space

• Dishwasher Safe

Rubbermaid Modular Canisters are the best designed I've ever seen - and sooo affordable. 

If you've been looking for something to finally get that kitchen of yours organized, this might just be the thing that turns it around!

p.s. And who says you can only use them for the kitchen? I'm recommending them to my Mom for her sewing room and my father-in-law for his garage. I think they'd be great in every room actually. Oh, see what's happening here? Once you start seeing the simplicity of organizing like this, it's catching!

Become an Instant Expert With These Foodie Field Guides

When you want to know every last detail about a subject, there's no better place than the amazing Field Guide series of books.

Being a food lover and cook, I got:

- Field Guide to Herbs & Spices

- Field Guide to Produce

- Field Guide to Meat

They are a fantastic way to learn more about the topics that interest you.

The Produce guide has fruits and vegetables that I've never heard of before - and I call myself an expert!

For example, Samphire is a salty plant, which is sold mainly in the summer. You want to look for "crisp, brightly coloured, small sprigs of samphire that are firm," the book says. It will last in the fridge up to one week. How to use it, you ask? Author Aliza Green suggests, "Fill the cavity of a sea bass with sprigs of fennel and bake, then serve on a bed of steamed samphire that has been tossed in butter and seasoned with freshly ground black pepper."

You get pages of clear colour photos and even recipes with these A-Z guides that will have you cooking up Beef Rolls, Pork Neck,Woodcock, Citron, Medlar, Crosnes and using Hyssop, Borage, Huacatay and Chinese Wolfberry!

These are must-haves for the foodie on your holiday list. And don't forget - add yourself onto that list too!

Change Your Look This Season With Nicole by OPI Matte Lacquers

With lip glosses getting more lacquery and the season's hot patent leather accessories catching the light, aren't you tired of everything being so shiny?

That's why I think you're going to love the new Nicole by OPI Matte Lacquers.

These are very different than what you are used to.

First of all, they are not long wearing like your usual Nicole and OPI polishes. 

That's because you don't apply a "top coat, drying products or hand lotion when wearing Matte." But you can wear a base coat, which will keep it going for a couple of days longer than if you wear it on its own.

So it's a short-term look, but a great one.

I tried Positive Energy - a light silver (pictured above), and Razzle Dazzler - a dark gravelly black.

I love how edgy they look and how quickly it goes on. You'll also be pleased that there's no DBP, Toluene or Formaldehyde.

If you want to change things up, as I always do at this time of year, then you should get Nicole by OPI Matte Lacquers.

Discover The Fascinating Cats Let Nothing Darken Their Roar 2011 Calendar!

I know that you might not understand the calendar's title yet.  Just bear with me and I promise it will be worth the wait!

If you love art, design and type, you're going to swoon for the Cats Let Nothing Darken Their Roar 2011 Calendar, as I have.

Since 2006, Noa Bembibre has created these fascinating calendars that are comprised of phrases that include the letters of the month. Take the title for instance. If you highlight certain letters, you'll see a word form: Cats Let Nothing Darken Their Roar. Isn't that amazing?!

Noa started out with making just 30 copies back in the beginning and now makes a limited edition of 500 copies.

The calendar is printed in four colours on 16.5" x 11.6" matte paper, finished with signature black ribbon binding and silver print packaging.  And for the first time, the 2011 calendar includes a little black pencil, made exclusively for CLNDTR by Viarco in Portugal.

The 2011 Edition is unfortunately sold out (you can share mine in the meantime!), but you can sign up to be notified of the latest releases.

There aren't many wall calendars that you keep the pages well after the year's passed. This one, you will.

Envelop Yourself in Elizabeth Arden's Pretty This Season

To me, the holiday season is about celebration - feeling good and making others feel good.

I love the dressing up, the festive meals and parties.

And this season, I'm going to be wearing Elizabeth Arden's Pretty.

It works both as a light everyday scent as well as a special evening fragrance. It's no wonder it won a Latina Beauty Award for Best New Fragrance.

Floral and exotic (thanks to Star Jasmine, Petalia, Pink Iris, White Peony), it has the slightest hint of sweetness (Italian Mandarin Orpur, Orange Blossom, Peach Nectar,) without being clingy or cloying. The woodsy scents - Fluffy Musk, Jacaranda Wood, Creamy Amber - give it a real depth, grounding it unlike those other flighty scents that are making the rounds.

And while everyone else is smelling heavy and orchidy, you'll waft in, evoking afternoons in spring. How cool is that?!

I love that it has a really clean finish. Like you've just had a long, luxurious shower or bath and you just naturally smell like a fresh bouquet.

Isn't that how you want to start every day?

Buy yourself (or someone else) some Pretty this season.

Winter Best Bet: eos Smooth Sphere Organic Lip Balm

I have always had chronically dry lips.

So when it comes to lip balms, I have to be honest - very little helps for the long term. Sure, I'll swath something on and it'll feel really good, but half an hour later, my lips are parched and flaky again.

Not so with eos Smooth Sphere Organic Lip Balm - I put it on first thing in the morning and my lips are beautiful and supple ALL DAY LONG.

Seriously, where have you been all my life, eos?

First of all, I love that you don't have to use your fingers at all to apply it - just hold it up to your lips and swipe it across. Done! You'll especially love this feature when it's -10 degrees outside!

Shea butter, vitamin E and jojoba oil keep the moisture locked down and in. There's no paraben, petrolatum, phthalate or gluten to worry about here, and it's 95% organic, 100% natural.

There are 5 variations to choose from. I'm rockin' the Medicated Tangerine, which has the addition of zinc and vitamin C and helps to prevent bacterial contamination. Nice.

Because it goes on clear and smooth, I use it on its own, as well as a primer for gloss and lipstick. 

This is one of those items that once you use, you just won't use anything else.

Buy it online or find out where to get it near you.

Change Your Hair Colour, Change Your LIFE With Umberto Beverly Hills U Colour!

I have been colouring my hair at home (out of a box) for over two decades, so I guess you could call me an expert at it.

Here's how it's gone so far:

- It stinks. You know the box colours are filled with harsh chemicals because you can smell them the entire time.

- My scalps burns each and every time I apply the colour. And for years, I've had a kind of permanent dry spot behind my right ear from all of the scorching of chemicals.

- When I am in the shower rinsing out the colour, my hair is the texture of hay. It stays that way for at least a week and it forever feels damaged.

I didn't know it could be any other way.

And then I tried Umberto Beverly Hills U Colour available at Target, Ulta stores and Ulta.com.

It is unlike ANY AT-HOME COLOUR I'VE EVER TRIED (and yes, I've tried 'em all).

- First of all, there is no smell except for a slight floral scent. Not a hint of ammonia smell. Just pure pleasantness.

- Secondly, I didn't experience any burning on my scalp. Not a one! What a difference. I wasn't cringing at all during the 25 minute processing time.

- There is no mixing of developer, no powders to get everywhere. With U Colour, it's all in one packet - colour, developer and equalizer. You just open the Sachet Packet System, smoosh it and apply it. It's honestly that easy!

- You get 2 packets, a pair of nice thick latex gloves (instead of those cheap, thin plastic ones that you get with the drugstore brands and that never stay on for more than a second), a mini detail brush and instructions. If you have long hair, you'll need both packets, but since I'm rockin' a super short cut, I get 2 colours out of the one box! What a deal!

- My hair became silky soft as soon as the product went on and was rinsed off and shampooed out. My hair has NEVER BEEN SOFTER - and I just coloured my hair!  #@!*!  That's because, as it says on the back of the box: "Unlike other brands with pre- or post-conditioning treatments that only coat the hair, U Colour opens the hairshaft during processing, allowing the Equalizer to penetrate the hair to lock in lasting colour, shine and conditioning, all in one easy step."

- As I stepped out of the shower, my wet hair looked so dark. Hmmm, there's no way this is going to work, I thought. It just can't be this great. I dried my locks and indeed, they are the colour indicated on the box - Pearl Blonde 11.8 (pictured above).

Hallelujah! 

I have found my hair colour for LIFE! And it's cheaper than what I've been paying for those crappy other boxes. It's actually affordable to colour my hair.

This is revolutionary folks.

Change your hair colour, change your life with Umberto Beverly Hills U Colour.

Fruit Features First in Farmers' Market Desserts

Recently, I have been trying my hand at baking.

Now that I've made a few things, I wanted to expand my horizons, but let me be clear - I can't do anything difficult yet. I've got to work my way up.

So I went in search of a cookbook that has a range of levels. Since I'm still learning how to make sweet stuff, I can't handle most dessert cookbooks with their 3 page recipes and hours of prep and masterful skills.

I'm so not there yet.

Farmers' Market Desserts: Gorgeous Fruit Recipes from First Prize Peach Pie to Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes however, offers a bunch of manageable recipes that start at easy and work their way up to manageable.

One thing I've learned through my journey so far is that fruit desserts always wow the crowd.

I love the idea of shopping at the farmers' market for the fresh ingredients (I go to Phil's and The St. Lawrence Market usually and then others occasionally) and then coming home to make a memorable dessert.

There are so many choices and thankfully, author Jennie Schacht has categorized them for me - Stone Fruits; Berries; Autumn Harvest; Winter Citrus; Vegetables & Tropical Fruits; Honey, Maple Syrup & Market Jam; Dried Fruits, Nuts & Herbs.

There are more than 50 recipes for pies, puddings, cupcakes, tarts and cakes, with sumptuous photos by Leo Gong, so don't be surprised if you get really, really hungry looking for the perfect recipe for that get together you're having next week.

I can totally make Roasted Peach Melba, Easy Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes, Individual Summer Berry Puddings, Grilled-Fig Sundaes with Balsamic "Fudge," and Mojito Melon Balls.

For those of you far less intimidated by the whole baking process, you'll probably want to tackle Farmer's Secret Chocolate Bundt Cake, Roasted Pumpkin Pie in a Maple-Pecan Crust, Tangerine-sickle Ice Cream and Strawberry Buckwheat Tea Cake.

I told you it'd make you hungry!

Buy the book, shop your local market for ingredients and then post a comment below about what you made, for whom, the occasion, etc. We can have our own little recipe club!

Shop In Style With Radley London's Foldaway Shoppers

I still see people carrying around the ugliest, bulkiest shopping bags.

I know, I know. They are simply using them to tote their wares. They don't care what they look like.

Tsk, tsk.

Life is too short to carry around hideous bags. And while we have all had to adjust to using reusable bags, you want to have something:

- light

- manageable

- handles that make it easy to carry

- and most of all, pretty

Radley London's Foldaway Shoppers are the above, and more.

They are "magazine-sized," which means that they are big enough to carry around your wares. Because they are made of nylon, they'll hold up to the weight of what you need to bring home and thanks to nice long handles, you can toss it over your shoulder with ease, instead of trying to jam it on there, like you've had to in the past.

I love that they fold up into a neat circular pouch, so you can stash 1 or 5 of 'em in your bag and always have them on hand.

And of course, I love them because they are sooo pretty.  

Get all 4 designs - Vanessa, Crazy Dogs, Sayings and Sweet Pickings (pictured above) - in your choice of colour.

Look Younger with LaVigne Organic's Plump & Firm Tri-Active Peptide Cream

Aging is tough. 

I noticed this morning when I turn my neck, the crease stays for quite awhile. There's no way to exercise your neck! And despite not tossing and turning much last night, my skin looks dull and my eyes are puffy.

Sigh. 

But there is help. LaVigne Organic Skincare, founded by President Linda Zaurrini (née LaVigne) is "dedicated to making natural products that both heal damaged skin and protect against the effects of day-to-day stresses from our environment. Each product is created to work effectively within our total skincare system or by itself."

I love that you don't have to buy a whole system in order to see results.

Also, the formula was created organically:

In 2002, while living in Mexico, Linda began looking into the healing secrets of the Mayans and visited with local experts to uncover the remarkable properties of Tepezcohuite. 

She has chosen all of the ingredients, as well as what not to include (parabens) herself, so you get this handcrafted recipe that fights aging naturally.

I tried Plump & Firm Tri-Active Peptide Cream and was thrilled by how supple and bright my skin was after just one application!

I like that the cream is light, but absorbs immediately. You skin feels quenched and nourished right away. Oh, the scent is so pretty - light and floral. And no need to worry about feeling greasy with this beauty!

It works to repair your skin, while protecting it from further damage (free radicals, environment, etc.). You may even notice scars diminishing, lines disappearing. All of my wrinkles softened - even on my neck (be sure to use on your neck and decollete!). My eyes were less droopy and the bags under them were virtually gone. 

I looked like I'd be on a one week cruise, when really I'd stay up until 2 a.m. writing until deadline.

Erase the years - and wrinkles - with LaVigne Organic Skincare.

Etsy Love

I bet you don't know this, but I feature a lot of Etsy sellers here on the knack. I am proud to showcase the handmade wares of these designers and shopkeepers. I swoon for their items and know that you do too. 

I just realized that I don't have an Etsy category. That's going to change. In the next week, I'll be going through all of my posts, making sure that those with Etsy shops get an Etsy label.

It's a little thing, but a nice thing I think.

Many thanks, warmest wishes and big hugs,

Stephanie

Booking Dates for 2011? Get Yourself the Cutest Planner by Daycraft!

I don't know how office people do it.

Those company-issued plastic black cover planners have the worst fonts and no room to write anything. It's 2010 folks - as Ms. Beyonce says, let me upgrade you.

Daycraft, out of Hong Kong, is one of those companies that once you find, you go back to time and again because they make such fantastic, original products.

Look at the awesome Make My Day 2011 Diary (pictured above).

It's red + yellow cloth cover is so striking and the fact that it's edged in yellow too? Oh, your friends are going to be clambering for this one. And It feels like a real book.  There are pages of artwork within - all takeoffs on "Make My Day" - so that you get a break from all the monotony of your appointments and deadlines.  You wanted pretty. Oh this is sooo pretty. The size is fantastic too - 133mm x 161mm. There is enough room to write (thanks to a well-designed uncluttered page), but it won't take up your entire desk or bag.

Isn't that exactly what you want in your planner? Something with some weight and style? This one's got it all. And it starts in August 2010, so you can start filling it up now.

If you know what a maxi dress, kitten heels, loungerie,dry knits and Berber stripes are, you'll want to get your inner-fashionista the Vogue 2011 Diary.

 

It's like having your own little calendar clutch! The cover is soft and finished with real stitches. The patent look is hot too.I can picture Blake Lively as Serena van der Woodsen using this beauty. And the elongated format (Pocket size - 89mm x 165mm)  gives you space to record your appointments without feeling like you've got to jam it into a tiny area like with most slim planners.

If you feel you need something even smaller, may I recommend the Mini Signature Diary 2011? The soft cover feels so sumptuous and the coloured edge with 2011 on it is so modern. And despite it's small stature, this little fella holds all your vitals - and then some. This one's perfect for stashing in your purse or desk drawer.

And because you have more than just appointments to keep track of, you'll want to get a Juicy Notebook and a D-Sign Notebook. Note-taking has never looked so good or been so much fun!

You are fun, stylish and unique - why don't you have a planner to match? Shop near you and get a planner that suits you for once.

The Holiday Party Must-Have Accessory? Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics

It won't be long before the holiday party invites start filling up your inbox.

Don't worry. I've got the perfect thing for you to wear - Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics!

Napoleon Perdis is a makeup artist first and foremost. His philosophy is not about following trends, but making you look your best, working with your features.

Phew.

Because as much as I'd like to look like Charlize Theron, uh, I'm more of the David Spade ilk.

And when a makeup artist designs a cosmetics line, you know that you're going to get products that hold and work, that you can actually wear.

Take Colour Discs (pictured above), for example.

These pigment-rich, paraben-free shadows give you a range of looks because they go on ultra smooth and are blendable (yes, even for the makeup application-challenged like me). So sweep on a light layer, go heavy for those nights on the town or blend different colours to get a completely custom look! They come in 4 finishes - sparkle, shimmer, matte and metallic - and 19 colours, so you can work your look for whatever the occasion.  

One of the best ways I've discovered to change up my look (since I've looked the same since kindergarten, this is always a challenge) is to use different coloured Eye Pencils.

I love the creamy texture. They feel so good!  Maybe it's the natural antioxidants, or the fact that they don't have any preservatives or mineral oil like those cheap drugstore brands.  Gray Matters is perfect for doing a smoky eye and Purple Reign make my green eyes pop! Raw Denim is so on trend and nice for doing something a little lighter and Lush Lagoon is a gorgeous teal for those of you who can't decide whether to do green or blue.

One of the ways to look younger is to have a fuller brow. The Napoleon Perdis Eyebrow Pencil is fantastic. You don't have to ever sharpen it (woo woo!) and it is easy to apply (thank you!).

What a difference applying Lip Pencil makes - you get a longer-lasting, perfect looking pout and it's one of the quickest ways to look polished. Pinot Noir and Rococo Red are the perfect accompaniment for whatever shade of lipstick or gloss you choose.

For a new look this season, you've got to get yourself Luminous Lip Veils.

This "liquid lipstick" gives you the high shine that you get from lip gloss and the rich colour that you can only get from lipstick. Napoleon says, "Sheer, glossy shine that is truly divine."  With lychee extract and aloe vera, you get a soft, smooth lip that stays that way. I love the skating in the park sparkle of Rare Opal and the ultra modern look that you get with Cherchez La Femme

 

Napoleon Perdis Cosmetics take you from early morning meetings to holiday parties that go all night! 

Get your new look here.

Meet Yummie Tummie - The Battle Against Your Bulge

I cook and eat for a living, so it's safe to say that my flat stomach of my teens is long gone.

That doesn't mean that I don't want to look svelte and sexy though!

So in addition to eating healthy when I can and walking everyday, I am taking full advantage of Yummie Tummie's line of shapewear and body shapers to keep me looking slim.

Last week, I went to a swank dinner where I knew the cameras would be everywhere (sure enough, they got me). I really wanted to look good.

I changed dresses 5 times and still felt like a baked potato. Ew. This wasn't going to cut it.

Thankfully, Yummie Tummie's Peek-A-Boo Cami (pictured above) had just arrived. I slipped it on under my black sheath dress and voila! A miracle occurred, where all of me was slimmed and smoothed - My midsection had been flattened, without having to endure any situps or crunches.

Not only did I have a stealth body, but it was so comfortable, I forgot I was wearing it? Can you think of that last body shaper you wear that felt like that? That didn't pull, tug or roll up on you?

Yeah, didn't think so.

There are fantastic design features too, like the deep neckline, so that the slip dress never shows no matter what dress you're wearing. And the straps are adjustable, so no matter where your chest lies (mine's somewhere near Texas, y'all), you can have it fit your body p-e-r-f-e-c-t-l-y. Oh, and if you don't want to have to wear a dress to get the benefits of being all Jessica Alba-y, you can tuck the lace trim into pants or skirts. Sweet.

This is one of those life-saving, where-have-you-been-all-my-life items that you will count on as much as you do your morning cup of joe.

Ooh, and the Short Sleeve Crew T-Shirt is a wardrobe necessity. So much so, you might want to buy a bunch.

This tee does everything you've ever wanted your t-shirts to do - there are 3 panels on the interior, which keeps you looking more Kate Bosworth than Kate Gosselin.  And because there are no visible seams on the outside, you can layer without looking bumpy or bulgy.

And it's damn comfy too. It's like wearing a regular tee, without that binding, can't breathe feeling that you get with most shapers.

It looks great on it's own or paired with a jacket or sweater. I love that I can wear a tee that keeps everything tucked away. There's nothing worse than seeing a tummy over the top of jeans. Yeah, you can say goodbye to that look forever, thankyouverymuch!

I am hooked on Yummie Tummie! I never thought that I could look this good AND be comfortable at the same time.

Shop the whole collection now.

Create Beautiful, Memorable Meals with Heart of the Artichoke

You probably know David Tanis one of two ways:

- by his critically-acclaimed book A Platter of Figs and Other Recipes

- as the chef at Chez Panisse for over 25 years

His new book, Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys, takes you through the seasons in a very personal way. David gives you not just superb recipes, but the stories behind them. He also gives you help along the way - the squid lesson alone is invaluable.

There is much to love about this cookbook:

- For one, it is uncluttered. It has beautiful photos and lots of white space, so it is easy to read (and follow) the recipes within.    

- Secondly, his chapter on Rituals what many of us want in food writing - personal moments and stories that we'll remember and share with friends - except perhaps the tripe!  

- And as someone who loves to throw dinner parties, I have to thank David for creating wonderfully rich, yet simple seasonal menus that allow me to cook a fabulous meal without having to spend 85 hours pouring over cookbooks, my recipe binders and scrolling online trying to assemble a chic dinner for friends. 

- There are recipes for small, medium and large groups, so you can cook to the number of people, without having to quadruple recipes (that never works) or do hard math (how could you have forgotten how to add fractions at this young age?).

- You can actually make the stuff here. It's not the highfalutin dishes of a world-renowned celebrity chef, but down to earth plates that you can absolutely make. Even things that I would have considered hard to make like Italian Spice Cake and Flat-Roasted Chicken with Rosemary are easy here (p.s.I have 4 recipes for flat-roasted chicken and never has it been as easy as just removing the breastbone and pushing down on the breastbone. This is life-changing!).

Get the book and finally pull it together every night. You can, thanks to Heart of the Artichoke.

Which menu will you make tonight - Cooking for Tomorrow Today (terrine, duck confit, salad, homemade bread and spiced pears) or Dead-of-Winter Dinner from the Supermarket (salad, steak, potato gratin, broiled pineapple)?

Mmm...

Yumnuts Naturals - A Healthy Snack Addiction

My fella and I like to snack when we hunker down to watch TV on DVD or a movie. 

I like to stock our "snack box" (a basket leftover from a Christmas present years ago) with healthy stuff that will satisfy our cravings: crackers, dried fruit and lots and lots of varieties of nuts.

One of our favourite recent finds are Yumnuts.

I like that they're not roasted in oil or are loaded artificial ingredients like those other kinds.  You won't find any cholesterol, preservatives, trans fats or gluten in these beauties. And you don't need very many to satisfy you because they are the jumbo variety, so you get a wallop of protein with each and every one.

It's nice to have a change from plain cashews, which are fine, but awfully boring don't you think? Yumnuts come in a variety of fun flavours - Honey, Toasted Coconut, Chocolate, Sea Salt, Chili Lime and Spicy Cajun. The two we tried - Chocolate and Honey - were gone in just two days. 'Nuff said.

Get yourself a whole bunch of Yumnuts and have a healthy snack that tastes like it's shouldn't be!

You're Going to Fall in Love With Michelle Chang Jewelry

"Statement" necklaces, bib necklaces, earrings as big as a pickup truck and cuffs hang like thick croissants off the wrist often get a lot of attention in fashion mags.

But I think that it takes real talent to create a delicate, fine piece that rests on the clavicle, inviting you to step closer and see up close.

One of the finest designers I've found is Michelle Chang of Michelle Chang Jewelry. Her ethereal pieces in muted golds and silver are whimsical, modern and everlasting. And each piece is handmade, making it completely yours and yours alone.

I am smitten with the Manta Ray Pendant Necklace in Sterling Silver (pictured above). It is fluid like mercury, but flattened against your neck. It acts as a kind of unique amulet. I think it's downright sexy. And thought they are closely related to sharks, manta rays are harmless creatures (they don't even have teeth!) and solitary, so it's nice to be able to have one so close. I think of it as my

I swooned for the Small Wishbone Necklace in Sterling Silver as soon as I laid eyes on it. As a food-obssessed writer, it is a perfect ode to my profession, as well as what I am think about most often. Michelle's wishbone in particular is so feminine and pretty that it has become somewhat of an everday necklace for me, something I've never had before.

These are just two of the many incredible designs that Michelle has. You should really take a look at all of them.

Oh, and if that's not fantastic enough, get this - it's really affordable. Handmade, original designs at these prices? Don't be surprised if you buy in bulk. Actually, you'd be crazy not to!

The holiday season is coming fast. Now you've got:

- a place to get your holiday jewelry, and

- a place to get gifts that will not on be loved, but actually used.

Shop the Michelle Chang Jewelry collection now and get exquisite, memorable jewelry that you will cherish forever.