Make a Special Dinner Tonight with Passage Foods Moroccan Spiced Lemon Tagine Simmer Sauce

Look, as much as I love to cook, I can't spend hours at the stove when there's so much work to be done. I don't have time to make everything from scratch or let meat marinate for hours.  To be honest, I'm lucky that I get out the door with both my boots on...

So I am always looking for ways to make a quick, healthy and tasty meal.

Not so long ago, I wrote about Passage Foods Thai Selections, which I have come to count on for getting dinner on the table in a jiff, without sacrificing taste or health.  Now I'm pleased to announce their new Passage to Morocco line. Choose from Moroccan Spiced Honey Tagine, Harissa Tomato & Bell Pepper Beef and Spiced Lemon Tagine Simmer Sauces.

I tried the Spiced Lemon Tagine Simmer Sauce and was thrilled by the simple, natural ingredients: Water, Citrus Peel, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Spices, Brown Sugar, Corn Starch, Sea Salt, Distilled Vinegar, Citrus Fibre and Vegetable Gum (Xanthan). Also, it's only 30 calories for 1/4 cup! Take a look at the list of ingredients in your grocery store's prepared sauces - you'll be shocked at how much fat, salt and items you can't pronounce you find.

So much flavour comes through in the sauce that whatever you pair it with won't fall flat, which I find happens with many off-the-shelf sauces.  And you don't have to spend hours marinating, which I usually don't mind, but with my frenzied, all-over-the-place schedule, I often don't plan dinner that far ahead anymore. And you only need to simmer for 15-20 minutes, so you've still got time to

And while the sauce is thick, it's not heavy, which means you'll have a delightful meal and not feel weighed down for the rest of the evening.

Just think - you can have a sumptuous Moroccan meal without having to do much work at all.

Now that's what I'm talking 'bout!

Shop the entire Passage Foods Collection now.

Renew Your Skin With Brittanie’s Thyme Incredibly Affordable Organic Skin Care

It's so cold out. Has your face gone and dried out like mine?

It's time for a renewal, but not anything chemical laden. You want to treat it like you would the rest of your body. And you don't want to spend your whole paycheck either. I mean, you're not making the big bucks, yet.

That's why you'll want to shop Brittanie’s Thyme products.

All of Brittanie’s Thyme products are USDA certified organic, with the exception of their French Green Clay Facial Mask with Organic White Tea. How they manage to use such exquisite ingredients and keep their prices so low remains a mystery, but at these prices, perhaps you won't mind being in the dark just this once!

To get my rejuvenation started, I slather on the Organic Almond Oatmeal Facial Scrub (pictured above).  The ingredients? Organic oatmeal and organic raw almonds.  That's it!  Isn't that awesome? To use, you simply place a small amount in the palm of your hand, add a few drops of water to make a paste and then rub gently onto your skin in small circles. Rinse with warm water and voila - shiny new skin!

Then I apply the Organic Everyday Facial Moisturizer, which despite it's usually pricey ingredients, is only $16 a bottle!  The pureness of each component renews your skin and protects it from the harsh winter elements, which unfortunately, we've still got a month or so left to battle against.

You'll love how your skin feels during (it's not oily at all) and after applying this moisturizer (oh so soft!). Using wonderfully pure ingredients - organic aloe gel, 100% natural glycerin, organic rice bran, vitamin E, organic rosemary extract,organic geranium and organic sweet orange essential oils and organic (refined) coconut oil - you can feel good while looking good.  And you only need 2-3 drops every day, so the bottle will last f-o-r-e-v-e-r.

And at only $5 a bottle, you'll want to load up on French Green Clay & White Tea Facial Masks for you and your friends (what a great gift and stocking stuffer!). I love using this once every couple of weeks. The healing clay (montmorillonite) is from France and delivers magnesium, silica and selenium to your skin.  And according to Brittanie's Thyme, the organic white peony tea "provides 10 times more antioxidants than vitamin E,"  so you can imagine how beautiful your skin is afterward.

To make things ridiculously easy, get everything together in the Everyday Basics or Gluten-Free Everyday Basics Set.

Spring is still weeks away. Look damn beautiful in the meantime with Brittanie's Thyme.

Illumienate - The Most Stylish Way to Light Up a Room

Sometimes someone just gets it right on.

Danielle Ericsson's creation - Illumienate - takes candle holders that are covered in beautiful papers and images.  She makes them into wedding luminary table numbers, luminaria centerpieces, favors, votive place cards, votive wrap name cards, and lumie menus.

The best part is that she personalizes them, so whether you're doing a bridal shower, reception, baby shower, birthday, christening, or any kind of celebration, she will create a look that is completely customized to you and your event.

She even made me my own candle lumie with the knack logo and background!  And Danielle showed me ones that used photos of Tarzan and Jane, which made for memorable event, I'm sure!! 

I can't think of a better way of making an event really look and feel like your own - just look at all of the possibilities:

- these gorgeous deep Damask Love Lumies are classic and yet have a decidedly modern feel (perfect for a wedding or anniversary, don't you think?)

- the Perfect Centerpiece will make your wedding stand out from the crowd

- why use standard name/place cards when you can use these gorgeous Votive Wraps

You get the dramatic feel of the candle light and the customized look to match your special day. All beautifully - and carefully - wrapped. 

Sigh.

Illumienate's Luminaries are one of most beautiful, best finds I've ever come across and I don't think I'll ever want to have an event without them.

Yep, they are most definitely a must.

Shop now and forever be the envy of your friends, family and colleagues.

Keep Every Hair in Place With Sweaty Bands

I don't work out like I used to (4 times a week at a fitness club). Instead, now I walk an hour a day (if not more), mop our floors, lug home big bags of groceries in which to feed my cooking habit and generally work myself to the bone each and every week just trying to keep up with life.

So when I came across Sweaty Bands, I thought of a bunch of instances where they would come in handy:

- cleaning my house

- running errands

- washing my face before bed

- putting on a face mask

- going out for a walk (if you run or walk the dog, these would be perfect) 

See, they are designed to keep you looking good, even while you sweat, so you can live your life, stylishly, while you run around just trying to keep up with all you have to do.

I like that Sweaty Bands are handmade, comfortable to wear (a velvety backing keeps it feeling soft and from falling out of place) and you can choose different styles, patterns and even widths!

I love the boldness of Scroll Down Your Playlist.  Mine is similar, but has a navy background with pink x's and white pattern.  And because it's so wide and colourful, it really stands out.  

And Argyles Are For Crumpin' Skinny is a nice preppy classic. Mine is shades of blue with white, which works in every season.

Whether you're lifting weights at the gym or picking up your dry cleaning, you want to look snappy and pulled together. Sweaty Bands can help you do that, all without ever sliding out of place.

Because frankly, don't you have enough to do?

Shop the entire Sweaty Bands Collection now.

Get a Flawless Finish with Yves Rocher Makeup

By now you probably realize the power of good makeup.

It can take you from "whatever" to "OMG" in just a few swaths of foundation.

But it's got to be the good stuff.

One of my very favourite companies of all time is Yves Rocher. Their products ALWAYS exceed your expectations, and all using natural ingredients, at a ridiculously low price.

So naturally I was excited to try their makeup. They have so much to choose from!

You want to start with Perfect Primer.  This first step to a flawless face is so amazing, you'll wonder how you've been able to get by without it all these years. 

The light, soft, completely non-oily pink liquid gets your skin ready for foundation by:

- instantly fading fine lines

- reducing pores

- brightening and smoothing out your complexion

All of that before applying your makeup - how awesome is that?!

And it smells so good, thanks to musk rose oil, Damask rose extract and Damask rosewater. A little goes a long way, so just daub a little bit on and smooth over your entire face. Okay, now look in the mirror.

It seems unbelievable, but you're camera ready - and you haven't even put your makeup on yet!

Speaking of your makeup, you've got to try Yves Rocher's Replumping Serum Foundation (pictured above).

I've never seen a serum and foundation together in one product before.  And for only $15.95? You've got to be kidding.

Using 4 high-performance rose extracts, this foundation both plumps and moisturizes in one single step. You get the coverage you want, without that "makeup-y" feel that some foundations inevitably leave you. And you never have to worry about putting on too much - the pump doles out just enough, each and every time. You'll look like yourself, only better. Which is what you've always wanted out of your foundation, isn't it?

And to complete your look, Flawless Finish Corrector gets rids of your dark circles, redness and those unsightly blemishes. Thanks to musk rose oil, Damask rose extract and rose wax, it smells like a rose garden. It is so damn easy to apply and goes on so beau-ti-fully, that you will look like you like a decent night's sleep every night, no matter what your real bedtime.

If you want to look stunning and hold onto that paycheck of yours, shop Yves Rocher.

Look Svelte in Every Outfit This Season Thanks to Secret Fusion

I am feeling a little bloated.

First, there was all that food at Christmas. Then January was so cold that I tucked into pot pies, stews and casseroles endlessly. And here it is just after Valentine's Day and the idea of just a salad for lunch doesn't quite do it yet. The flurries happening outside my window might have something to do with that.

So let's just say I'm not feeling as slender as I have in the past.

That's why when I discovered Secret Fusions latest designs, I was thrilled. This oughtta get me through the months until bikini season.

The Secret Fusion High Waist Brief  (pictured above) is the perfect dining companion. It allows me to look fabulous in my body skimming dresses and still have that glass of wine or extra bite of risotto. It goes right up to the bottom of your bra - seamlessly, no less - so you're absolutely covered, yet thanks to incredibly soft, stretch microfiber, you're also completely comfortable.  Your tummy and waist will look like it did back in the day, while you enjoy the present.

And you're going to love the Secret Fusion Shaping Camisole (pictured above). It's the consummate accessory for your wardrobe, no matter what the season. The nylon/elasthane fabric is so soft stretchy that you will be as taut as you would be wearing a corset, but without any of the discomfort or unsightly bulges. The adjustable straps and slightly longer length than you usually find in a camisole gives you the versatility to look good in everything from your little tank tops to full-length jumpsuits.

Both come in nude and black (I say get both colours to really rock your body - and wardrobe!) and are available across Canada exclusively at Zellers. 

A new you for spring? Absolutely.

Get Whiter Teeth Without All the Fuss with Love That White Smile

I don't know how people can use those teeth whitening trays.  I can't keep them in my mouth. My gag reflex goes into overdrive, like it's 1990, after drinking and dancing the night away.

Those strips aren't much better. It's so damn uncomfortable and they rub and tear away at your gums and the side of your mouth. Ew.

That's why Love That White Smile is so amazing:

- no mess, no fuss

- no pain or discomfort

- no time-consuming methods of application

Usually, I use a gel from my drugstore, but Love That White Smile has a foam system that "penetrates the surface of the teeth." That means it's really getting in there, cleaning and whitening in all the little bumps and grooves.  It's not just bleaching your teeth, but actually removing the stains.

That's quite the difference, wouldn't you say?

Their product line consists of 4 awesome items that will give you that Hollywood smile that you've always wanted.

Start with Love That White Smile Cleaning and Whitening Foam.  It's a 2-step system, but don't worry - it's ridiculously easy to use. Just brush your teeth as you normally would, then do 1 full pump from bottle 1 and 1 full pump from bottle 2. You brush your teeth for a minimum of 60 seconds and you're done. You'll see whiter teeth after just 3 days!

I like it because it's damn easy to use, it's fast and it's really gentle - your gums don't hurt, your teeth aren't sensitive... In other words, you can live your life AND have whiter teeth.

When you're done with the Cleaning and Whitening Foam system, move onto the Maintenance Foam. This one's damn easy to use too - just 2 full pumps and brush for 60 secs after brushing with your regular toothpaste. Your teeth will stay white, without having to do anything but this one step. How freakin' great is that?!

I looove the On-the-Go Cleaning Pen! You just brush it on and voila - whiter teeth, fresher breath. Good lord is this wonderful. This is one of those things that once you find it, you can't live without it.

And for those hot dates and nights on the town, you've simply got to have Love That White Smile Tooth & Lip Gloss tucked into your clutch. The tooth gloss is fantastic because it not only makes your teeth whiter and brighter, but it protects them against stains as well as gloss and lipstick, so you never have to worry about having an embarrassing smudge across your teeth ever again!  And of course, you'll love the lip gloss because it feels great and the light reflecting agents make your smile completely and utterly dazzling. As if that's not enough, it plumps your lips too.  Both glosses are minty and refreshing, so you can get as up close and personal as you like.

If you want white teeth without it a) costing an arm and leg, b) being uncomfortable and c) taking forever, then get yourself Love That White Smile.

Find out where to get it near you.

You Can Be Whoever You Want to Be with Playboy's Latest Perfume Collection!

I am not really a Playboy kind of girl. I wear office appropriate clothing to most events and feel kind of slutty wearing long, dangly earrings.

But my interest was piqued by Playboy's new fragrances. What does a Playboy Bunny smell like?

The collection features 3 scents that you choose based on your mood - will it be Play It Lovely, Play It Spicy or Play It Sexy today?

I love the idea of trying on a mood in addition to a scent. And truthfully? Deep down, I would like to try the whole bunny outfit on. Not to parade in or for anyone to see, but just for me - does the sexiness come from the outfit or within, I wonder?

So for me, these scents are kind of like trying on the suit, without the tail.

I try Play It Lovely first.  The gorgeous blond on the video says it feels like "jeans and sandals kind of a day." I can definitely pull off casual and light. And the scent it light indeed. Citrus keeps it sunny, while cherry baby orchid, belle de nuit, tuberose, amber, patchouli and other intoxicating scents keep it interesting.  Ooh, I like this. A lot.

I wasn't sure that I would like the idea of Play It Spicy. I gravitate towards light, clean scents or dark, plummy ones.  This scent is about being in charge, being seductive. Hmm. That doesn't sound like me. But I was surprised how much the scent is me, though Playboy calls it "the edgiest of the three" (Me, edgy? Ha!). It's quite a feminine scent. Perhaps it's the belini cocktail, tiger lily or passionflower that makes it surprisingly ballerina-esque. I'll be wearing this one too.

Calling a fragrance Play It Sexy is just about the smartest marketing plan ever. Who doesn't want to be sexy? And according to the Playboy video, it drives boys wild. A "sultry oriental scent," it is quite captivating - a little bit sweet, a little bit naughty.  Liquorice and jasmine tea? Pink grapefruit and pink pepper? It's quite the cocktail, let me tell you. It is one of those warm, woodsy scents that is decidedly womanly. Mmm. This is definitely a keeper...

I have to admit that I think I had a somewhat outdated idea of what Playboy was and is. These scents and women depicted in the videos are very modern and not at all cloying or overly sweet, like I thought they would be.

Playboy's latest scents for women are smart, sexy and edgy - just like you.

They are available now at drugstores and mass retailers across Canada.

Body Blitz on the Go Brings The Spa Home to You

A couple of years back, my friend Camille asked if I wanted to go to Body Blitz with her. We were both working crazy hours and she thought it would be a great stress-reliever.

Body Blitz is a spa that "puts a modern twist on ancient restorative water practices. Situated in an 11,000 sq. ft. warehouse space in the heart of Toronto, body blitz boasts a 38 ft. Dead sea salt pool, hot green tea pool, cold plunging pool, aromatherapy steam, infrared sauna, and 20 treatment rooms. Relax in our therapeutic waters, detoxify in our steam and sauna or replenish in our mud, scrub, body or massage treatments."

I take my Mom every year for her birthday - Thanks, Camille!

And now they've launched a new line of natural skincare products - Body Blitz on the Go  - that work much like the healing waters do, using natural elements and botanicals.

Only a handful of face products have been transformative enough that I could just put them on and go outside without a bit of makeup on (If it were the apocalypse, I'd apply makeup before leaving the house - I still wouldn't want to scare anyone).

Body Blitz Replenishing Face Moisturizer is one of them. As soon as I apply it, my skin has a luminescence and radiance that I thought was available only to stars like Charlize Theron and Angelina Jolie.  Employing argan oil, one of this year's biggest contenders for all-natural wonder ingredient, and something called Renovage, you won't believe how young and vibrant you look, all within seconds of application. Oh, and these ingredients are anti-aging, so the more you use this amazingly light cream, the better you'll look.  Yes, happy birthday to you indeed...

And speaking of argan, I am completely smitten with Body Blitz's Argan Oil Face Serum. Not only does it give you the same effects as above, it manages to do it without being greasy in the least. How do they manage that with an oil?!

And to bring the fresh water and spa feeling home with you, luxuriate in their Mint Lime Body Wash and Body Lotion. Both rejuvenating and nourishing, there's no other way you'll want to start your day.

I have tried and tested many skincare lines in my life and this is one of my absolute faves.

Shop the entire Blitz on the Go collection and have a day at the spa every day.

A Love Letter to Dorie Greenspan For Around My French Table

There is such a glut of cookbooks out there. How do you find one that's right for you?

In the last months, one that's been receiving a lot of attention is Around My French Table by Dorie Greenspan.

There are a lot of new cookbooks that get a lot of praise, but I knew this one was worth it when food store owners, home cooks and professional chefs were saying how much they got from it. That to me is a sign that it can work for everyone from novice to pro.

And in case you have the notion that French food is difficult to make, laden with fat and extremely heavy on the palate, this book is about to change that.

I don't know how Dorie makes French food finally seem so accessible and unintimidating, but she does.On her website she writes:

"This is an extremely personal book – you'll meet my French friends and learn a lot about my life in Paris – and so it's not a by-the-rules book, not Escoffier and not Mastering The Art of French Cooking (nothing else could be, or should be). I think of it as a snapshot of French home cooking today, a look at what my friends and I are cooking at home in France. And, since French people are as busy as we are, it's also a surprising look at how simple today's home cooking is." 

And that is just the kind of warm, encouraging tone throughout the book. 

Perhaps I've seen too many movies with French chefs yelling about perfection and being extremely meticulous, but I've always been intimated by both the methods and ingredients. But Dorie 's gentle words brought me off the ledge and into the kitchen again. I am excited by the ease of making her Savory Cheese and Chive Bread and Socca from Vieux Nice, things I wouldn't even attempt in another French tome - but here it actually seems possible.

And 23 soups to choose from? That alone makes it a keeper.  

I am eternally grateful for her Chicken and Duck Section. I have only made duck a few times, so I am still getting to know how it works, how it responds. But I've recently found a place not too far from home that offers duck for a great price, so I've really wanted to learn how to handle and cook it like a pro. Dorie has a whole page dedicated to duck basics and her recipe, Twenty-Minute Honey-Glazed Duck Breasts completely demystified the whole genre for me, in just a few minutes.

And being such a big meat eater, I am grateful for the robust Beef, Veal, Pork and Lamb Sections. In this cold weather, what could be more comforting than Bistrot Paul Bert Pepper Steak, Osso Buco a l'Arman, Cola and Jam Spareribs and Lamb and Dried Apricot Tagine?  And these are all dishes that you can absolutely make after you rush home from the office with ease.  

Isn't that fabulous?

I will return to these recipes again and again because they are wonderfully delicious and easy to make. I will forever be indebted to Dorie Greenspan for changing  my opinions about French cooking and changing my own cooking. I now make French food at home. And it's really, really good. I can't believe it (Will there be a French restaurant in my future? I wouldn't have thought so before, but now...)!

These are just some of the reasons Around My French Table is an must-have in your cookbook collection (I didn't even get to the sections on Fish & Shellfish, Vegetables & Grains and Desserts - I thought I'd leave a few surprises for you to discover on your own!).

Buy your copy - or 10 - now!

p.s. Thank you, Dorie Greenspan. You have changed everything.

Finally Be Hands-Free with Wallets2Wear!

Look, I take my bag everywhere I go: I don't leave it in the car and even if I'm just popping out for one or two things, I barrel it over my shoulder just in case.

But there are some nights where I want to leave it all behind - I want to be footloose and fancyfree without having to cart my purse around with my all night.

However, my wardrobe presents a unique problem - almost everything I own has no pockets. I rarely wear jeans and all of my tops are streamlined - not a pocket in sight!

So Wallets2Wear is a saving grace for me, because it allows me the peace of mind of having my essentials "on hand" without having to carry a damn thing. You simply fill up the pouch, close the flap and slip it on or close up the sides - depending upon the design. Watch a quick video to see how easy it is!

Plus they are so stylish, I would want to wear these even if they didn't come with the ever-so-handy zip pocket.

I have two so I can dress it up or down:

All That Glitters - I wear this one (pictured above) with LBDs and when I need a little something to perk me up. Large striped silver beads and smaller plain silver beads add chic to any outfit.

White Bandana Wrap - This adds a little flair to my everyday gear. Little does anyone know it also makes my life easier, in addition to making me look good. 

Shop the entire range of Wallets2Wear and get yourself some stylish accessories as well as additional place to keep your lipstick, iPod, etc.

You'll Be Astounded by TheWonderBar

I have tried a lot of things in my time, but I don't think Heilmoor Clay and Chlorey'nahre have been among them.

These powerful ingredients, along with chamomile extract, wheat extract and olea europaea fruit oil (and others) are married together to create TheWonderBar.

This is not a bar of soap (though it really does look like one).  It is so much more than that.

Simply lather and massage into your skin. But don't rinse right away - leave it on there for 3-5 minutes. Then when you do wash it, feel your skin.

The softness is amazing. And I've been out walking in the minus 20 weather, people. It's not like mine naturally feels as soft as a baby chick.

And notice how pink and glowy you are? That's all TheWonderBar.

You skin will be tighter and brighter, smoother and softer.

I like that this is an all-on-one system. You "wash" your face and go. No bottles, potions or lotions needed.  Great for those harried mornings and for traveling (packing just got a whole lot easier), and it works as a shampoo too.

If simplifying and/or having better skin is on your to-do list this year, you've got to get yourself TheWonderBar.

p.s. Some people may experience a "Healing Crisis." In my second and third week, I broke out just a little bit. It went away after a few days. This is natural and it's just your skin cleansing itself. I think that's a good thing, but I also think it's good to know that this may happen.

Keep Your Socks On With Hot Paws

It's been on of the coldest winters in history. And since we've still got a couple months left, you've really got to bundle up.

One on the best ways I know how is with Hot Paws.

Their Thermal insulating socks (cotton blend) lock in the the warmth and keep the cold out. Way out.

You know those nights that you just can't seem to warm up no matter how many cups of tea you have? Hot Paws work every time.

I like that they have a snug fit - they're tight enough to keep you warm without suffocating you, yet there's no chance of them slouching halfway down your ankle like those ones you got at the drugstore.

And while they feel comfortable and make you feel toasty from head to toe, you don't have to worry about being too hot or feeling like your feet can't breathe like those crazy grey camping socks from the 50s.

Hot Paws also offers Gloves & Mitts, Headwear, Base Layers and Hand & Toe Warmers for the whole family - men, women and kids - at really affordable prices. So enjoy the rest of the season in complete comfort and warmth.

The Hot Paws Collection is available at department stores, mass retail stores and pharmacies across the country. Pricing for the line begins at $6.00.

Restore Your Balance with Golden Earth's Aromatherapy Body Care Products

I bet you could use a lift right about now.

It's cold out, it's not even middle of the week yet... Ugh, right?

Not anymore, thanks to Golden Earth.

Created by aromatherapist Elizabeth Golden,  this body care line is based on essential oils and whole products that are good for your body.

But that's not the best part.

It's how they make you feel - inside and out.

One of my favourite (and most important) parts of the day is my morning shower. It sets the tone for my day and gets my revved for the events to come. And Golden Earth's Organic Aromatherapy Bath Gels are a must whether you rock the shower or the tub. With names like Fresh, Love and Tranquility and scents that smell like gardens, not chemicals, you can't help but have a stellar day!

Naturally, you should follow with Elizabeth's Organic Aromatherapy Body Lotions. Using the most nourishing natural ingredients such as Acai pulp, brazil nut seed  and andiroba seed oils as well as capuacu butter, your skin will feel soft and supple like it used to. And you'll smell good too.

Speaking of which, are you looking for natural, organic perfumes? Then get yourself some Perfumes from Nature. These little wonders are like a burst of sunshine and a wave of happiness - how can you not feel great wearing scents called Euphoria and Grace?!

And to keep with your new year's resolution of taking better care of yourself, slowing down, being in the moment... (I know you know these), envelop yourself in Chakra Wellness Therapy Oils. Each essential oil "has its own unique vibration to promote wellness in the body," bringing you that peace and quiet that you've been longing for.

Be good to yourself and your body. You deserve it.  

Shop the entire Golden Earth Collection now.

Riazul 100% Blue Agave Premium Tequila - Changing How You Think of Tequila

I hope you've learned your lesson about tequila.

No, not the one about pounding them back while singing "Pour Some Sugar on Me" when you were 19, or having too much on that week away in Mexico/Cuba/St. Maarten.

I mean the one that:

1. Tequilas can be a fine liquor that actually taste good

2. Many tequilas are meant to be sipped on, like scotch, whiskey and brandy

3. Not all tequilas are created equal

One of my recent discoveries and favourite finds is Riazul Premium 100% Blue Agave Tequila.

Take away all your preconceptions about tequila because this brand is oh-so different. You'll enjoy a smooth feel and taste and even a little sweetness.

You have to try all three - Silver, Reposado and Anejo, which scored 94 out of a 100 on Tequila.net.  They will surprise and delight your palate.

Like many cocktails and spirits today, this artisan alcohol is made with great care. Riazul harvests and processes its agave in the highlands of Mexico, where the elevation is high, the climate is cool and the soil is red, rich in mineral content.

I love that their 250 acres of agave fields is tradition that has been passed down through the generations and that this artisan way of making such a rich and enjoyable spirit has continued on.

My fella and I enjoy sipping on these with just a little ice, but you can certainly make fine cocktails with them as well.

The important thing is that you embrace Riazul 100% Blue Agave Premium Tequilas. Because it might just be one of the best things you've ever tasted.

Streamline Your Purse With the Innovative Design of Keybrid

I don't know why someone didn't think of it sooner, but thank goodness for Keybrid.

See, these folks thought why have to thread your key on a keychain - why not make the key a ring itself?

It's sheer genius, not to mention great design.

I see people all the time with these bulky keychains like they're superintendents. Hown do they walk around with all that extra weight everyday?!

Just get your Keybrid - now available in Silver (and soon in Pink, Black and Gold) - cut as you would any key and you've got yourself a new key AND chain in one sweet, sleek package.

Now you can find your keys with ease thanks to this awesome system - clip it to your purse, belt or anywhere that makes it easily accessible.

Get Keybrids for you and everyone you know.

Life is short. You should have gorgeous keys.

Battle Winter Skin With Awakening Skin Care

Cold, snow and bitter wind is just your typical day at this time of year.

It is also the time of year where your skin puckers, dries, flakes and then falls off various parts of your body. Yep, pretty typical.

But one way to alleviate that is Awakening Skin Care. They have products specifically targeted to those areas that need it most, using a fusion of essential oils, botanical extracts and concentrated natural minerals.

Let's go through them one by one:

Hands - Even if I protect my hands with gloves, I'm still handling paper all day long (so drying), cooking, cleaning, washing dishes. They are always dry. But Awakening Skin Care for Hands combats that with their intense cream therapy. Using the ancient antiseptic myrrh and high concentrations of pure minerals such as magnesium and potassium, your hands and not just moisturized but healed. Cared for.

Feet - I am hard on my feet and so at this time of year, I can really feel it. They're cramped up in bulky boots all day and trudging through all this snow causes blisters to start. The Feet Balm works on my tired aching legs and feet and actually dilates capillaries to boost circulation. Concentrated magnesium, potassium, peppermint, menthol, vitamin A, avocado, jojoba, lemongrass and daphne work on your tough, callused skin and smooth and soften it right away. Ahh, that feels better.

Body & Massage - Available in scented or unscented, Body & Massage works on reviving your skin ALL DAY LONG. No need to reapply like with those other creams. And because it's designed for massage professionals, it won't stain your clothes or sheets. So give yourself smooth skin and the luxurious feel of being at a spa all at once.

Face & Neck - I hope you know the importance of treating your neck as well as your face. There is nothing you can do to make your neck stop from sagging except to prevent it now.  This cream will reduce all the usual things you want in a face cream - reduce puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles - but it also stimulates production of collagen and elastin. That means that your neck with stay tighter for longer and you won't have to wear scares or choker necklaces to hide it. And you'll love the tropical smell of this one, thanks to essences of peach, grapefruit, jasmine and vanilla.

Hands Sanitizer - Because it's cold and flu season, you want to have Sanitizer on hand.  The difference with this one? It purifies AND hydrates your skin, unlike those heavy alcohol-based ones you've been getting at the drugstore.  It uses natural ingredients such as vitamin E and B5 and minerals from the Dead Sea, so you're feeding your hands while protecting your skin.

Go and shop the entire Awakening Skin Care Collection. There are still a couple of months of winter left.

Get Smooth, Shiny Hair With Creative Professional's Hand-Crafted Combs

Sometimes it's the simplest things that much such a difference.

If you use a comb, you probably use it every day. Now try to imagine not being able to comb your hair. So it's as important as your cuppa coffee and your phone, but I bet you wouldn't have thought of it that way until now.

That's why you shouldn't be using just any ol' comb. You should have the very best.

As in Creative Professional's Handmade Tortoise Comb.

This unbelievable find is "sawcut from a single sheet of high quality Italian produced cellulose (cotton) acetate and its teeth gently rounded."  So no, no tortoises were harmed to make this gorgeous tool, and it won't snag or catch your hair like most combs. 

Creative Professional Combs are made to protect your hair. Cellulose acetate is a non-petroleum based plastic that you usually see used for glasses frames. And it turns out that this material is a natural non-irritant to skin and resists static, so why would you use anything?

It is durable, not to mention damn beautiful.

Why should people who use brushes get all of the beautiful hair tools?

Shop Creative Professional's Handmade Combs now.

Psst. Wanna Know the Secret to Younger Looking Skin? It's Striking Skin Care

I always have high hopes for my products. After all, they are promising some kind of fix or improvement.

But I was completely amazed by the complete metamorphosis that happened to my skin when I used Striking Skin Care.

One small bottle and 2 tiny jars did all this (note: there are 4 products in the line, but I didn't try the Cleanser)? 

Maybe it's  because this line is specifically targeted to women over 40 (I'm not there yet, but I'll take the preventative approach, thankyouverymuch). They know the troubles of fine lines, wrinkles and the loss of firm and radiant skin.

The line using something called SmartPeptides. According to Striking, " Tests have shown that SmartPeptides boost collagen production and migration to support the extracellular matrix. This helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while increasing firmness."

Hallelujah, because I've noticed when I look down, my face and neck skin follow. Ugh.

You can tell a skincare line by its eye cream - if it works, you know your skin everywhere else will be smoothed out too. And Striking's Rejuvenating Eye Creme, right from the beginning, removed any sign of fatigue or stress UPON APPLICATION.  Yeah that's right. It works that fast. Which is what you want when you're rushing off to work and have bags the size of Idaho under your eyes.
 

Next is the Multi-Peptide Serum. Serums sink deep into your skin and often work at the cellular level. Putting this on before your moisturizer preps your skin for youth and beauty.  You will never want to be without this radical skin transformer.

The Restorative Moisture Creme feels nourishing and moisturizing without the teeniest bit of grease. It lasts all day, even in this biting cold weather. And if you're wondering if it's just me that notices the difference, it's not. This weekend someone thought I was over a decade younger. I may look a little young thanks to my genes, but not that young. I am giving Striking the credit on that one!

Striking has nixed any paraben, phthalatem fragrances or formaldehyde releasing ingredients, so you can feel good about what's going on your skin.

And really, when you get results like these, you can't feel anything but fantastic!

Shop the Striking collection now.

Stay Warm & Dry This Winter with Dahlgren's Incredible Alpaca Socks

Today I went for a 3 hour walk with my Mom. It was 12 below with the wind chill making it seem like it was minus 17.

Good thing I had on a pair of Dalhgren's.

See, they have patented a technology - Dri-Stride - that absorbs moisture as it's created and then disintegrates it, so that your feet stay dry no matter how long you walk. 

And while you might be thinking that you have to sacrifice comfort for dryness, think again. The fine folks at Dalhgren's - a family business, by the way - use alpaca, one of the softest fibers, and blend it with merino wool. So you get a crazy comfy and warm sock that stands up to the cold, long walks and whatever else you do.  Oh, and their design and technology actually fight against blisters. And with half of your boots (although very nice) being too big or too small, you know you could do a lot more this winter if you didn't have oozing sores on your feet.

I tried out the Metro (pictured above), which are thin and light-weight, but so unbelievably warm. It feels like your feet are being warmed by a blanket by the fire the entire time you wear them. Isn't that how you want to feel in this harsh weather?

I will never spend another winter without Dalhgren Socks. They offer me everything I need - and then some: there are supercute socks for everyday, outdoor socks for those of you who like to get your camping/hiking on, and perhaps my favourite category, the winter boot selections that keep your tooties snug and warm despite the freezing temperatures.

Dalhgren only makes socks. That's all they do. So why are you buying your socks from a company that makes jeans and workboots?

Shop Dalhgren now and have a warm, dry winter for once.

The Secret to Mouth-Watering Meals? Olivado Oils

This week, I took my 4 book clubs to a restaurant I'd chosen to go with the book we'd just read. The restaurant serves Southern Italian cuisine and the simplest foods were made extraordinary by their exquisite olive oil. Plain bread and sauteed kale were no longer plain.

And that's the difference great olive oil makes.

One of the best I've tried , and now my go-to brand, is Olivado.

The proof was dinner last week. I started a new project that I worked on all day and left me exhausted at night. As much as I wanted to make something memorable, I couldn't tend to anything too complicated. So I roasted chicken, made some rice and broiled some asparagus I'd tossed with Olivado Avocado Oil. Out of all the items, despite marinating the organic, free-run chicken and adding exotic spices to the rice, it was the asparagus that my fiance fell for. And it being January, the asparagus certainly wasn't in season or at its peak. The flavour came from the oil.

So when I made steak a few nights later and rubbed ------ on it, it was the oil that brought it to life.

Olivado Avocado Oil is excellent for high heat cooking (it has one of the highest smoke points at 250) and enhances your dishes instead of overpowering them. It is rich in chlorophylls that reduce your risk of cancer and all the vitamin E helps reduce incidences of cardiovascular disease.

It contains no trans fats or cholesterol and is high in monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

In case that's not exciting enough, consider that Olivado Avocado Oil meets the Heart & Stroke Fountain Health Check Criteria, has 10 times more chlorophyll than olive oil and has twice as much beta-sitosterol than olive oil, which reduces cholesterol absorption in the body.

I am hooked for life on Olivado Avocado Oil. Their Avocado Zest Oil too If you are on a raw diet or want another oil with a high smoke point (410), try their Macadamia Nut Oil. Olivado Omega Plus Oil is a great all-purpose oil that is a blend of cold-pressed, extra virgin avocado, olive and flaxseed oils.

These rich oils are so flavourful and fresh that you'll be looking for any excuse to have them. I'm making homemade dressings, marinades and roasting vegetables left, right and centre just to envelop myself in Olivado's fine flavours.

If you want to take your food to the next level, get yourself Olivado Oils.

Write Anywhere with Zenquenz Roll-Up, Fold Over Journals

I wrote in notebooks and journals long before I was writer. And most people I know who use journals aren't writers by profession, so use them for whatever is important and exciting for you, not what you feel should go into them.

Whether you like to record, sketch, plan or schedule the Zequenz 360 Journals work where you need them to.

See, these innovative books roll up and fold over completely cover-to-cover, so you can write anywhere - from the Adobe Desert to your local coffee shop. The binding curves without ever breaking so you work your book as hard as you need to and cram it into your carry on and the like (you know you're going to anyway, you might as well get one that will stand up to it). They will roll-up and fold back forever.

There are other fine touches that set it apart from the rest - opulent covers that you just want to smooth your hands over and over again, curved corners that make the journals approachable and comfortable to use, smooth pages that make it easy to write and an attached bookmark that saves you from looking up where you last left off.

Lined and unlined journals are available in either black or red and in varying sizes. Check out where to buy them near you.

Your life is important. Why not record it?

Guard Your Cosmetics Against the Heat with Cool-It Caddy

The other day just after a blizzard, I picked up a bowl of soup-to-go.

It was packed up with a soft roll and butter. When I got back to my desk, the heat of the soup melted the butter all over the container and everything else it in the bag. It was a complete oily mess.

I bet you've had a similar experience with your makeup bag - your foundation melts all over everything, your lipstick dissolves like the Wicked Witch... So not only do you lose all of your expensive and cherished products, it's almost impossible to clean, so you have to throw out your cosmetics case too.

Now thanks to the innovative design of  Cool-It Caddy, you'll never have to woirry about your cosmetics melting again!

See, there is an internal cooling mechanism that keeps your makeup solid, no matter where you are. You pop your Cool-It Caddy into the freezer and then you're good to go!

So whether you're taking a trip to Cabo or simply applying your makeup in the steamy bathroom at the gym, your favourite products are safe and sound.  

It will most certainly be a lifesaver come summer, but use it now in the car, on the plane or at the tennis club. The case itself - available in 3 styles - is waterproof, so you can take it poolside without worry.

I like the 2 zippered pouches and 1 snap pouch so that you can compartmentalize your products and bring your keys and credit cards without having to lug your big purse with you (and we both know how big that bag of yours is). And there's a mirrored flap included, so you can freshen up quickly and on the go.

Buy the Cool-It Caddy and protect your essentials.  There are styles for women and one for the fellas.

Recycle Your Hangers with Ease with the Hanger Hamper

I love our place, but our bedroom closet is a constant source of agony (it even frustrated our organizer!). No matter how much I cull my clothes and rearrange things, I end up with having to yank out tops and by the end of the week, the closet looks like it's been raided by a 12-year-old.

One of my recent discoveries was that as I've been donating clothes at our local shelter box, I've been folding everything and hence, my closet still has the same number of hangers.

But how to recycle them? I've tried taking an armful to my dry cleaner, but that ended with hangers all over the sidewalk. Plastic bags don't work because the wire and plastic tears right through them.

Thank goodness for The Hanger Hamper.

This clever product helps consumers and dry cleaners easily reuse and recycle their hangers. Approximately 3.5 billion wire hangers are discarded in landfills every year, so I like feeling like I'm part of the solution - and it creates room in my perpetually cramped closet!

The cloth collapsible bag is shaped to stack up to 100 hangers neatly. The sturdy sides means they won't be tossing about on your way to the dry cleaner and the straps make it easy to transport them.  Then, when you're not using it, collapse it never worry again about wasting precious closet space. But even when it's open, it's triangular shape conform to your closet corners, making it wonderful to use for laundry or storing small items in the interim.

This afforable system ($9.95) is really a revolutionary household product.

Get your Hanger Hamper now.

Nourish Your Damaged Hair with Paraben-Free Alcove Hair Products

This weather is brutal on my hair. 

Add that to the fact that I just coloured it Rihanna red and that depsite using an ammonia- and peroxide-free colour, it didn't completely take. So then I had to use a even harsher one. And it didn't completely take either, so now I just stripped everything - twice - and then added on an ashy blonde to try and get it back to normal.

Ugh.

You can just imagine the state of my hair. It's dry and straw like to begin with. Now after all this, it's the texture of wood chips.

That's why I'm thankful for Alcove from Oligo Professional.

This new customized nourishing hair care line includes 3 sets of products to target your problem areas, all without using harmful ingredients such as sulphates, salt and parabens.

Using Microcapsules Technology, Alcove protects, hydrates, repairs, nourishes, shines, conditions and offer maximum UV filter protection to your dried out, dull locks.

Alcove Repair Shampoo and Repair Conditioner work on my hair, infusing it with vitamin-rich flaxseed extract and avocado oil. It keeps my colour longer and keeps it soft and shiny, despite my mistreatment of it with all the colouring, stripping, blow drying, etc.

Not only are the results incredible, but you can feel your hair change right after you apply it, so your hair is already softening right in the shower. And these products smell good, not only in the bottle, but long after you've shampooed and conditioned.

Thanks to Alcove, my hair doesn't look like I've taken a weedwhacker to it anymore.

Locate a salon near you.

New Ring Guard Solution Resizes Rings Quickly & Easily

A couple of years ago, some friends were in New York or Boston somewhere and picked out a ring that they thought was very "me."

Usually people get this very wrong, but this couple couldn't have chosen better - a  very modern, edgy patent black thick band that goes almost as high as my knuckle. Problem is, I've never been able to wear it as it's way too big.

So when I found out about new Ring Guard Solution, I was thrilled - I can finally wear this backlog of jewelry that's just been tucked away in a jewelry box for years due to purchasing the wrong size and all the fluctuation in my weight (I eat and write for a living, so you can just imagine... If only they made this for my waistline!)

It's so easy to use - simply squeeze a small amount of Ring Guard Solution gel to the inside of the ring and let it dry (up to 3 hours).

It will set to a clear, soft plastic that fills in the gap between your ring and finger but remains invisible. You can't feel a thing, except that your ring finally fits comfortably. In fact, it's better than wearing your rings on their own because you get that extra padding. And it stays on - whether you're at your computer typing, washing the dishes, even swimming. No more slipping and sliding!

If you ever want to remove it, it just peels off and doesn't leave any marks or scratches on your rings (like those bulky metal or plastic ring guards that you may have used in the past).

According to Ring Guard Solutions, the tube has enough gel to "treat several dozen rings." At only $7.95 a tube, it's costing mere cents to make your rings wearable again. And after 3 years, I can finally wear that wonderful ring my friends brought back from their trip.

I think that's pretty wonderful, don't you?

Buy Ring Guard Solution now.

Spritz Your Favourite Scents On The Go with the Sen7 Fragrance Atomizer

Do you apply perfume just once in the morning or do you like to reapply before heading out in the evening?

I've just discovered the wonderful Sen7,  a sexy little modern fragrance atomizer that allows you to keep your favourite perfume close on hand so you can freshen up anytime, anywhere.

Sen7 has made fragrance atomizers that not only look damn sexy (James Bond Girls wouldn't look out of place with one), but are small enough to fit into your teeniest clutches and purses. They also fit comfortably in your hand - no hard edges here.

Just lightly press the top and your fragrance is gently released. The sen7 funnel allows you to refill it quickly and with ease.

I like having one stashed in my everyday bag so that if I forget to spritz before heading out for the day, I can do it on the go. And I love this option for traveling - I don't want to bring my big, beautiful and ornate perfume bottles and have to cram them into my luggage where they are sure to break (and it takes me years to go through a bottle of perfume - I don't want to have to lug that around with me, worrying if it's going to leak or break all over my clothes and belongings. The Sen7 allows me to bring enough so that I won't run out (5.8 mL- up to 70 sprays!) and I can leave my precious bottles at home. Win-win.

And the design is just gorgeous - who wouldn't want to carry this beauty around with them? In all these colours, including the classics? Buy two and swap the tops for even more colour options! You know that every time you pull it out, conversations will quiet and all heads will turn your way.

I wear perfume every day and Sen7 allows me to put it on whether I'm in a hotel room in Bangkok or simply 2 blocks away out for dinner.

Shop the entire Sen7 collection and smell great all the time.

p.s. These make a fantastic gift  - for your friends, bridesmaids, family, etc..

Wear Vera Wang's Princess At Any Age

Not too long ago, I reviewed Vera Wang Anniversary, which has come to be a daily staple for me. Just what I like  - clean and crisp with just a hint of luxe.

So when I got the opportunity to try Vera Wang Princess, I was intrigued. Could I pull of such a youthful scent?

See, as you can see by the ads, Princess exudes youth and vitalty. It has vanilla and energetic scents such as dark chocolate, mandarin meringue and pink frosting accord. Not exactly your mom's Chanel No. 5...

But I have to admit, it's damn appealing - I feel so buoyant when I wear it. It is a happy, hopeful scent with verve. 

I like that it makes me feel young at heart, yet isn't at all childish or treacly. Water lily, golden apricot skin, ripe pink guava, Tahitian flower, wild tuberose and forbidden woods combine to make a completely delectable scent that has me delighted and joyful all day long.

Go to Vera Wang's store locator to find out where to get Vera Wang Princess near you. 

You wanted to make this year a happy one, didn't you? Vera Wang Princess is a great place to start.