LeisurelyConduct

Take This Class

2008-09-06T19:05:00.003-04:00

A social network to review or provide feedback on your favorite classes. Go to Take This Class now.

Traveling Gadget....

2008-07-09T11:33:00.003-04:00

How many times when you travel you can't figure out the alarm clock in the hotel room??? Or schedule a wake up call and ooppss, the hotel forgets?!? Okay, well if none of these things have happened to you, then I must just have a run of bad luck when I travel...hehe. But even if it's just a quick nap on the train or plane, you don't have to fear over sleeping! This rubber digital clock is so small, has a snooze button and is only $13.00! Such a great thing to have while you're traveling or for a gift. Check it out on Traveling Chic!

Stickee Buns!

2008-07-09T11:19:00.004-04:00

Okay this is so cute!! If you're worried that your child, neice, nephew or any infant is going to slip off your lap or high chair, check out StickeeBuns. Recommended from iVillage, these onesies have a non-slip surface on the bottom and back that will ensure the child's safety. How adorable, and they're onley $39.99!

Eco-Friendly Dinnerware in Style

2008-07-09T10:58:00.002-04:00

Besides the fact that paper and plastic dinnerware are plain - and well boring, they are also harmful to the environment. But now you can have dinnerware that's uniquely decorative and eco-friendly. The Palm Leaf Dinnerware by Marx Foods has no two plates alike, and they're durable and leak proof! Add a little rustic/tiki flavor to your next BBQ with these. They come in all sorts of different sizes and styles.

Green Myth Busters!

2008-06-20T09:08:00.003-04:00

I will admit that unfortunately I am a bit of a speedy gonzalez - but with gas prices now and days, I really have slowed down because if you haven't heard, driving above 55 mph will use more gas! But is this really true?!

According to iVillage's Green Myth Busters,

"Every single 'Tips for Saving Gas' list tells you to drive 55 mph, but is that really the magic number? By many estimates it's pretty darn close, though each vehicle has its own speed of maximum efficiency dependent on engines, car bodies and driving conditions. Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60; boosting your highway speed from 55 to 75 can raise fuel consumption by as much as 20 percent. Driving at steady, reasonable speeds will save both gas and money."

Eco-Friendly Furniture

2008-06-19T09:11:00.004-04:00

If you're in the process of redesigning a room or renovating, and you're looking for eco-friendly furniture to go along with your "green" room, check out HGTV's Environmentally Savvy Furniture.

"Can't Reuse? Buy Responsibly "If you can't find a piece you love in the used marketplace, the next best thing to do is to buy something made from sustainable materials," says Zem Joaquin, green blogger at Ecofabulous.com. How can you tell if furniture is environmentally friendly? Look for these certifications..."

Coming Back Soon...

2008-06-18T20:38:00.004-04:00

Sorry guys, but this website is under construction. If you're looking for My Class Schedule click here.

I hope to have some new stuff on this blog soon!!

Quiz: How Eco-Friendly Are You?

2008-06-06T10:12:00.003-04:00

Think you're being eco-friendly, take this quiz at iVillage to see just how friendly you are!

Dangerous...Plastic!

2008-06-03T11:10:00.001-04:00

My mom told me a while back that the plastic in our bottled water is full of chemicals and that they're producing the bottles thinner and thinner, making it more likely for some of these chemicals to seep into our water! So if you're like me and reuse the same water bottle for a couple of weeks or so, you may want to rethink doing so.

But it's not just our water bottles, it's in your child's pacifier(s), our food containers, baby bottles, sippy cups and much more! Check out Real Simple's How Dangerous Is Plastic for what to know and what to look out for.

"Baby Bottles and Sippy Cups
What to Know: Many are made of polycarbonate plastic because the material is shatterproof and strong. Largely due to consumer concern, chain stores Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us have announced plans to phase out all baby bottles and baby-feeding products containing BPA.

What to Look for: Glass bottles or product lines that are BPA-free. Be aware, though, that BPA-free claims can be misleading because labeling terminology is not regulated by the government. (For instance, a polycarbonate bottle lined with a nonpolycarbonate substance may purport to be BPA-free because the food will not come into contact with BPA.) To be sure that the product you plan to use or purchase is safe, call the company’s 800 number and inquire about the plastic. Or text “zrecs” plus a brand name to 69866 (standard text-messaging rates apply). A response text from consumer-reporting blog Z recommends zrecs.blogspot.com, which maintains an extensive database of products containing BPA, will tell you whether the product is truly BPA-free."

Be Creative....

2008-06-02T13:44:00.005-04:00

I saw this on iVillage and thought what a cute idea this would be for a child's birthday! These children plates by Pink Piglet Designs can be personalized for birthdays, holidays or even with their favorite things. This also makes a for a great unique birthday gift at only $20 a plate.

Check out their other cute designs at Pink Piglet Designs!

No Need To Do It Yourself!

2008-06-02T13:24:00.005-04:00

Cleaning out the gutters is one of the many back breaking jobs around the house! But no need to worry about that any longer, because the fabulous people at iRobot have created the iRobot Looj that will do it for you.

"- Avoid climbing and repositioning the ladder multiple times
- Works with standard K-style, aluminum, copper, metal or vinyl gutters
- Avoid over reaching into gutters from dangerous heights
- Cleans a 60-foot section of gutter in just 10 minutes"

Hey, with Father's Day right around the corner, this would make a great gift! Also check out their other amazing iRobots like Floor Washing, Vacuum Cleaning, Shop Sweeping, Pool Cleaning.

A Must Have For Maternity Clothes!

2008-05-24T08:32:00.005-04:00

I've seen this product before and decided to post it because it's just so fabulous for pregnant women. If you're pregnant and you feel that your belly is getting bigger and bigger, and your clothes smaller and smaller, check out this Bella Band by Ingrid & Isabel.

This comfortably, soft, easy to wear Bella Band fits snug around your waistline and just tight enough to hold your pants up. The fabric creates a smooth belly surface, so you don't have to worry about lines or it bunching up on you. This is great because you want to unbutton your pants - go ahead no one will know!

I'm not pregnant, but I think this is a fabulous idea even for a non-maternity wardrobe item. How many of us have a favorite t-shirt or a tank that we love but through the years it's become a little too short to wear...so now instead of buying an extra long tank to go underneath, we could just wear these Bella Bands! I love it because even though the style these days are really long tanks, some of them are just a little too long, know what I mean?!

Pickled??

2008-05-21T09:47:00.004-04:00

I remember as a kid, going out to Long Island (we lived in Queens at the time), and going to this place called Shopper's Village. It was like an inside flea market, aisles full of all sorts of vendors. One of the my favorite things when we went was to get a large pickle from the pickle stand. They had big barrels of all sorts of pickles and they were the best I ever had! Years later Shopper's Village closed down and became the Liquidators and I haven't had a pickle like that since.

But bringing back that great pickle flavor are Bob's Pickle Pops. These indiviual packaged pickle juice is full of a tart, vinegar flavor...just pop them in the freezer, and you'll have a great frozen treat. What will they think of next?!

Medical Myths....

2008-05-21T09:10:00.004-04:00

On The View yesterday, Dr. Nancy Snyderman was on the show with her book Medical Myths. It debunked all these medical myths that we have learned from generation to generation passed on by our mothers and doctors! It was really intriguing to hear some of these myths. Here are some of them:

Medicine cabinets are best kept out of the bathroom. The worst room in your house to stockpile your medicine is the bathroom. The humidity and swings in temperature can age medications prematurely, so you should keep real medicines — the ones taken by mouth — in a separate area in a hall closet. Use your built-in medicine cabinet for things like bandages and dental floss.

Sugar does not cause hyperactivity in kids. There is no scientific evidence that sugar triggers hyperactivity in children, but it will make them obese. Sugar is a major problem for children because many high-sugar foods are also loaded with fat, so if your kids are eating a lot of sugar and fat-laced foods, they will start putting on pounds even to the point of being at greater risk for "adult" diseases such as diabetes.

Earwax may predict breast cancer risk. Ear wax is a buildup of oil and dead skin cells that act like the oil in your car. It lubricates the gentle lining of the ear, keeps your ear moist, and protects it against infection. And contrary to what you might have heard, ear wax is not dirty. There are two genetically determined types of ear wax: dry (dry and flaky) and wet (honey brown to dark brown and moist). Most blacks and caucasians have the wet type while most Asians and Native Americans have the dry type. One of the genetic traits associated with breast cancer is wet earwax. The breasts and glands that produce earwax are both apocrine glands. According to the National Cancer Institute, women with excessive wet ear wax are twice as likely to develop breast cancer as are those with dry ear wax.

Grilling meat can increase cancer risk. Grilling or pan-frying meat creates chemicals called heterocyclic-camines which can be harmful. These chemicals are found in higher quantities when meat is well done or burnt. Experts recommend limiting the amount of grilled meat in your diet and avoiding the burnt parts altogether. To cut down on HCSS, marinate and precook meats in a microwave before cooking by other methods.

On a side note, it's nice that the ladies of The View finally discussed someone else's book besides Barbara Walter's Audition! They've been making me nauseous plugging that book every day! I mean I am interested to read it, but enough already.

Waterproof Your Gadgets...

2008-05-19T11:04:00.004-04:00

This beach season don't put your cell phone or iPod at risk...keep them safe in this waterproof Aquapac. The bags come in a variety of sizes, so you can protect anything from your camera to your videocamera.

Did you ever think you would be able to swim with your iPod?! Well check out these waterproof headphones, waterproof cases and waterproof headsets from H2O Audio. This is great for those watersports.

Knuckle Crackers Listen....

2008-05-19T08:32:00.004-04:00

I didn't start cracking my knuckles until I was in my late teens. I remember my cousins doing it all the time and me thinking to myself how they're going to get arthritis and I'm not. I don't even think I knew what arthritis was at that time, but I knew you could get it from cracking your knuckles. Well not too long after I became a knuckle cracker as well and still am to this day. I still try not to do it as often, but it's a hard habbit to break.

However I read an AOL article on Top Ten Arthritis Myths, and Dr. White (Chief Public Health Office for the Arthritis Foundation) says that,

"There are two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis (the most common) and rheumatoid arthritis. Conditions like lupus, like gout, and fibromyalgia also fall under the arthritis umbrella. Many things can cause arthritis -- namely genetics, sedentary lifestyles, and joint injury. However, many of the things we think cause arthritis in fact don't..."

So does this mean we can crack away?! I personally don't think so, but it's sure good to know that it won't cause arthritis! Read the article for more arthritis myths.

Have A Healthier BBQ For Memorial Day!

2008-05-16T08:19:00.003-04:00

I'm not saying I don't love hot dogs and hamburgers, but watch this video and save a few extra calories on some of your favorite BBQ food!

Color Trend Alert!

2008-05-16T07:40:00.006-04:00

Are bold colors in or out?? According to BHG, Citrus Colored Living Rooms are the way to go, which I really like, since my bedroom is yellow. With all the stress these days about the downfall of the economy, why not come home to a cheery, hopeful, happy color such as yellow.

"With brightly colored pottery as the inspiration, this living room showcases a palette that sparkles with lemon yellow walls and spring green on the bookcases, along with coral, sky blue, and eye-popping tangerine as an accent. Fabrics are key to this casual, feminine look, showing up by the dozen in an energetic mix of plaids, checks, florals, even a dragonfly motif in fuzzy chenille. It works because the fabrics share at least one common color. For major upholstered pieces, choose solid colors or subtle, small-scale patterns, making them color-versatile."

Also check out HGTV's Color Trend: What's In, What's Next, and see what the color forecasters are predicting for next year!

"Color forecasters are part designer, part sociologist and part predictor. They draw information from the runway, auto manufacturers and the housewares industry; they scour showrooms, trade shows and magazines for trends; they consider what's happening culturally and how this impacts our national mood. Then they take all of that information and translate it into what colors we'll be wearing and decorating with in the next year."

Easy 'Fix Me Up' For Your Deck...

2008-05-15T09:34:00.004-04:00

Scrambling this month to get the backyard ready for summer BBQ's and pool parties?! Don't panic, if you don't have time to sand and stain/repaint the deck, try these simple deck tiles for a simple way to fix up the yard/porch. Better Homes and Garden gives these great 10 Easy-To-Install Deck Tiles.

"Attention do-it-yourselfers: WonderDeck tiles were specifically designed for the DIY crowd. These tiles fit snugly over any structurally sound wood, concrete, or soil surface. They are made from Amazonian cherry and Andean oak wood. The tiles can be arranged in multiple directions to create a classic or parquet-like look. Bonus: These tiles do not need to be stained or sealed after installation.
www.wonderdeck.com 866-605-3325"

Play With The Kids Outside....

2008-05-15T09:07:00.004-04:00

Part of my cultural heritage is Maltese, and I remember being at the Maltese club in Queens for practically every holiday and family party - and one of the things I vividly remember are the men playing Bocce Ball in the backyard. When the men were done playing, the kids (including myself) took a shot at rolling these balls into one another. I had no idea what Bocce Ball was, but I was fascinated with rolling them into one another.

It's rare that you see these types of traditions being played anymore, everyone now is hooked up to one "Nintendo" like system or another. I say let's bring back family traditions, or make new ones of your own with Bocce Ball by Smith & Hawken! Hey, might be a great alternative instead of getting a basketball hoop...

Money Saving Tips...

2008-05-13T11:28:00.004-04:00

The economy is hurting and so are we! Try these 66 Ways To Save Money Everyday from iVillage. Hope it helps you save!

"Spending less doesn't have to make you feel poor. Try these belt-tightening tips for everything from food shopping to home decorating, and live richly on any budget."

Have Your Own Organic Garden!

2008-05-13T10:54:00.003-04:00

With the price of gas and buying organic produce these days I don't know about you, but my pockets are feeling a little bit empty. So since it's Spring, and Summer is right around the corner, why not save a few extra bucks and grow your own organic garden! Follow these 5 Easy Tips For Beginners from iVillage.

"What's organic gardening, exactly? Growing organically means eliminating synthetic chemicals (commonly used for pest control and soil nutrition), as well as encouraging biological diversity by planting a mix of species and rotating plants over time."

Would You Live Here?!

2008-05-08T09:30:00.002-04:00

This is crazy!! Check out the 'story' behind some of these Gravity Defying Homes. Umm as for me, I like living in a house on the ground!

Go Green Memorial Day!

2008-05-08T08:57:00.004-04:00

It's that time of year, fire up the barbie! This Memorial Day weekend kick off BBQ season with these Earthshell Plates and Bowls which are made from corn, potatoes and limestone. For only a few cents more these disposable dinnerware products are worth every penny!

On Earth Day, Oprah did an Earth Day Event, and on her show were some big names like Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock and Al Gore, who shared their green secrets. So writing about these Earthshell products reminds me of what Sandra Bullock uses in her Texas restaurant, Bess Bistro.

"For instance, the takeout containers may look Styrofoam, but they are actually made from sugar cane."

Too Old For Lollipops, Think Again!

2008-05-06T17:35:00.002-04:00

If you think you're too old for sour apple, cherry, or watermelon lollipops, try this...Absinthe Lollipops! That's right, 100% absinthe, no artificial flavoring or coloring. The lollipops are made by a compnay called Lollyphile, based in San Fransisco, they're experimenting with all sorts of flavors, check out their Maple Bacon lollies as well.

These would make cool party favors, and if you're really thinking outside the box for a Mother's Day gift, go for it!

It's Bathing Suit Season!

2008-05-05T12:07:00.003-04:00

Ugh, who ever enjoys shopping for a bathing suit!! And I'm not saying that because I think I'm fat, but picking the wrong type of bathing suit for your body type can make you look bad. Everyone is shaped differently and feels differently about certain aspects of their body, so use these helpful tips to shop for your next bathing suit....

From Rachael Ray:

"Pick a bathing suit one size larger than your lingerie size. It has to fit everywhere...So don't feel badly if the suit is bigger than your dress size -- it should be!"

From iVillage:

"Avoiding bulges. The problem with bathing suits for many women is that stretchy fabric, which tightens the figure in a good way, often forces skin out around the edges in a bad way. One of the latest innovations on the market is a fabric that helps prevent bulging. Called Miratex, the patented fabric contains three times the amount of Lycra than the average suit and is woven so that it stretches in four ways. Currently only available in Miraclesuits, which can be found at Cyberswim.com and Land's End, the fabric takes the girdlelike feeling out of bathing suits and offers extra control and comfort."

Silly Me...

2008-05-05T11:38:00.004-04:00

The other day I was teaching Zumba, and I noticed it started to get a bit warm and stuffy in the aerobics room, so naturally I turned on the air....or so I thought. About 15 minutes later, I feel heat coming from the vents! In my head I was like, "OMG is the heat on?!" I continued to teach and nonchalantly walked over to the thermostat and saw that the dial was on heat!! I was hoping that no one noticed, but the minute I thought that someone said, "I think the heat is on." I felt like a retard because they saw me go over to the dial to turn on the air in the first place! However in my defense, there are two separate dials...one that just turns the air on, and the other controlling whether it's heat or air blowing. Not thinking that anyone would have put it on heat I never checked which one it was on. Within minutes the room was stifling! I said, "pretend we're in Brazil and we're working out on the beach (with a smile & cursing myself out in my head)." Finally 10 minutes later the room cooled down, but it was bit of a workout kill for a few moments.

A Day In The Life Of Me...

2008-05-02T11:26:00.004-04:00

Hello!

I decided to start posting about myself and some everyday encounters that I experience to hopefully entertain you, and because maybe you can relate and realize you're not the only one out there saying retarded things that make Jessica Simpson look intelligent, or doing spastic things that may define you as a clutz, and some life decisions that we make and wish we had more of a support system for.

To start off simply, I started this blog because I wanted to share ideas and things that I was saying to myself, "That's good to know!" I mean how many of us run to tell our girlfriends of a great find (whether it be a good deal on clothes, cheap ways to shop for groceries, tips for traveling, etc) or something that was on a daytime talk show that is a "must-know-or-have."

I am a fitness instructor and as I accumlate more classes to teach a week, it's becoming more difficult to stay on top of the website daily. However, I will try my best to do so and not give up, but if there's nothing posted for a day or two, have no fear I will write shortly.

Chocolate Lovers, Do You Dare??

2008-05-02T10:12:00.003-04:00

I absolutely love chocolate, so when I traveled to Switzerland I was in Heaven! I also gained a few pounds, but it was worth every bite. However, I'm not real adventurous when it comes to combining chocolate with other things. I'll definitely do peanuts, peanut butter, caramel and those sort of combinations, but I'm not sure about the exotic ones like the D'Olivia candy bar by Vosges. This exotic combination is a mixture of dried kalamata olives, Venezuelan white chocolate and 33% cocoa butter. Sound yummy??

Sooo Cute! The Baby Bunch

2008-05-02T09:52:00.008-04:00

Stumped on what to get new moms for Mother's Day? Check out this adorable gift from The Baby Bunch! These bouquets consist of rolled up organic bibs, tshirts, hats, onesies, socks and more. So cute!

Cost: $49.95 & up

I'm Absolutely 'Charmed!'

2008-04-25T10:57:00.003-04:00

When my grandmother passed away I had inherited her jewelry. I wasn't sure if I was about to receive a jewelry box full of unwearable costume jewelry or something classic and beautiful. When I opened the box somethings I knew I wouldn't wear, but when I came across two gold charm bracelets I fell in love them. One charm in particular caught my attention, a boy silhouette that had my father's birthday engraved on the back. Charm bracelets and necklaces are timeless and a memorable piece of jewelry. This Mother's Day check out Cocoa Crayon for their unique, modern charms.

Bah Bye To BahBa!

2008-04-24T14:49:00.004-04:00

I do not have any children, but I've been hearing parents bring this subject up a lot lately....the topic of taking their child off the bottle. It's seems like a daunting task and every parent has to go through it at some point or another, but when and how? Like I said I don't have kids, but I imagine there will be crying and tantrums involved - AND knowing that, I know I will have to be strong.

I was watching Rachael Ray this morning and Leah Remini (from the hit tv show The Kings of Queens) was on discussing her extremely difficult time taking her 3 1/2 year old daughter, Sophia, off the bottle. Yes, I said 3 1/2!! She just can't seem to remain strong and say no. She says she loves her daughter too much, so what's the big deal if she wants a bottle.

The big deal is that it's not only one bottle her daughter wants...it's about 8 bottles a night! They are water bottles which is a lot healthier than milk, but what about sleep deprivation? Leah and her husband take turns getting up every couple of hours just to give her daughter an "agua bahbas" (as they call it). This poor couple has not slept a full night in over 3 years, nor their daughter!! Even with the knowledge of health concerns she just can't seem to have the will power to say NO.

One viewer was lucky enough to take her bottle strategy to Leah's home, but unfortunately it didn't work. So now Rachael Ray is asking again if anyone has a strategy that they think will definitely work. Just keep in mind if you think you're up for the challenge, you must be a strong and spicy person...Leah doesn't like the conservative type/approach.

Fab Product: Chargepod

2008-04-24T12:08:00.004-04:00

It's hard enough when I'm walking out the door to remember my cell phone when its charging, let alone other devices such as my camera and Ipod. How many times have I brought my camera but left the battery home in the charger, or gone to the gym and realized my Ipod wasn't in my bag?! Very annoying, especially when these devices are scattered throughout the house plugged into different outlets.

Well today on The View they gave the audience members this fabulous product called Callpod CHPA-0001 Chargepod Base Unit. This chargepod charges cell phones, cameras, PDA's and most mobile devices all on one charge base unit. Now why haven't I thought of that?! Great gift idea for those who have a lot of gadgets...maybe for Father's Day.

Cost: $40.56

Purchase at Amazon.

Easy Backyard Makeovers For Under $50!

2008-04-23T08:09:00.004-04:00

These past few days have been beautiful!! It's been in the high 60's, low 70's and I'm loving it! I officially have the summer itch, where I want to be outside all day long walking, relaxing, doing anything that includes the outdoors as much as possible.

This is a great time to begin working on your backyard making it an "outside living room." My mom and her boyfriend do this every year in which they have transformed the backyard from dirt and weeds, to having a pond, a gazebo, a deck and a garden - BUT - not by hiring a lanscaper, they did it all by themselves! Don't get me wrong, it wasn't transformed all in one summer, and it definitely was and is hard work. However, fixing up the yard whether it's done by you or someone else is costly. So if you're looking just to add some outdoor decor to make your yard a more comfortable, inviting atmosphere or just looking to add a few new touches, check out these 16 Outdoor Decorating Ideas For Under $50 by iVillage.

"Create a canopy to define your area. With just four posts, some rope and a large piece of canvas, a make-it-yourself canopy can be a striking backdrop to your backyard.

Another way to brighten up an old bench or lounge chair is to decorate it with colorful pillows and cushions. In fact, the brighter the pillows the less likely you are to notice the small nicks and signs of age on your outdoor furniture."

Futuristic Shopping Cart!

2008-04-22T08:17:00.003-04:00

This is pretty amazing, but it's also scary, are we as humans just getting lazier and lazier?! Lara Spencer, who does the Daily Dish on the Rachael Ray show, dished about this MediaCart.

Microsoft is behind this high-tech shopping cart and it will only be coming to a Shoprite near you. Which stinks for me since there are no more Shoprites anywhere close to where I live, what about Pathmark Microsoft?! Anyway, the MediaCart has a bar code scanner and a small flat screen that reads you information about the product you are buying or interested buying. So let's say you want to buy Ritz crackers, you scan the bar code and the shopping cart screen will tell you the price, nutritional information about the product AND if there is a similar product on sale for less. Pretty neat, huh?! With this shopping cart, you can also go to the grocery store's website on line, upload your grocery list and when you get to the store the shopping cart will have your grocery list for you. So no more carrying around pieces of paper that you may have lost in your black abyss purse or left home still on the fridge.

Overall I do like the product, however I think some of the things like it reading the nutritional information for us can be done on our own buy reading the box. And although some grocery store items aren't always labeled clearly with price, we can still ask a worker or use the price check machines in the aisle (if available).

Nonetheless, you have to see the video to see what this MediaCart is all about.

Happy Earth Day!

2008-04-22T07:59:00.002-04:00

Today is Earth Day! If you never really do anything green, let today be the one day that you do at least one thing green. Check out The Today's Show 10 Easy Steps To Living Eco-Chic....and if you have kid(s), check out Kaboose's Earth Day Arts and Crafts And Raising Awareness With Your Children.

Traveling With Kids?!

2008-04-22T07:51:00.004-04:00

It's hard enough to pack for yourself what to bring and what not to! I usually end up packing more than needed because of those "just incase" instances occur, I'll be prepared. Now throw a kid in the mix and your even more confused with what to pack. Well check out Frommer's 21 Packing Rules For Traveling With Kids,

"Bibs. Instead of going through three or four (or more) cloth or disposal bibs a day, on cruises I would tie the restaurants' cloth napkins around my boy's necks at meal time. They looked like sporty little Frenchman in ascots, and better yet, someone else was doing the laundry. Plus, as a part-time tree hugger, it felt good not wasting dozens of throw-way bibs."

Observation: Home Decor Trend

2008-04-18T00:05:00.005-04:00

I've been noticing lately that the "it" colors for homes are deep browns and light baby blues. These colors work anywhere in the house whether it's a dark brown sofa with baby blue pillows, or light blue bed sheets with a chocolate brown quilt. If you haven't already noticed this home decor trend, take a look at House Tours from BHG, most of their images reflect this color scheme. I have also noticed these colors in Whoopi Goldberg's linen line and even on Oprah when Nate Berkus redecorated a home on her show.

These colors create a warm and comfortable feeling and I absolutely love it!

Let Your Kids Stand Tall!

2008-04-17T23:39:00.005-04:00

I saw this fab product on Rachael Ray this morning and thought it's such a great idea! It's one of those things that you say to yourself, "now why haven't I thought of that!"...although, of course it's possible you may have. =)

Instead of letting your kids try and climb up to the kitchen counter, or let them stand on an unstable chair - try The Learning Tower™ Natural By Little Partners™ . This multifunctional object allows your kid(s) to safely enjoy taking part in cooking, arts and crafts, and many other projects that may be "over the counter" for them. It can also be turned into a set for a puppet show in three easy steps!

Cost: $179.95

Hot New Product: Amazon's Kindle Wireless Reading Device

2008-04-15T09:19:00.004-04:00

If you love to read books or know someone who does, this is a great device from Amazon called Kindle Wireless Reading Device. This product is in such high demand that it's currently sold out! However, you can still place your order online through Amazon for when it's back in stock. I think this would make a great holiday gift idea.

"Revolutionary electronic-paper display provides a sharp, high-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper.
Simple to use: no computer, no cables, no syncing.
Wireless connectivity enables you to shop the Kindle Store directly from your Kindle—whether you’re in the back of a taxi, at the airport, or in bed.
Buy a book and it is auto-delivered wirelessly in less than one minute.
More than 110,000 books available, including more than 90 of 112 current New York Times® Best Sellers.
New York Times® Best Sellers and New Releases $9.99, unless marked otherwise.
Free book samples. Download and read first chapters for free before you decide to buy.
Top U.S. newspapers including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post; top magazines including TIME, Atlantic Monthly, and Forbes—all
auto-delivered wirelessly.
Top international newspapers from France, Germany, and Ireland; Le Monde, Frankfurter Allgemeine, and The Irish Times—all auto-delivered wirelessly.
More than 250 top blogs from the worlds of business, technology, sports, entertainment, and politics, including BoingBoing, Slashdot, TechCrunch, ESPN's Bill Simmons, The Onion, Michelle Malkin, and The Huffington Post—all updated wirelessly throughout the day.
Lighter and thinner than a typical paperback; weighs only 10.3 ounces.
Holds over 200 titles.
Long battery life. Leave wireless on and recharge approximately every other day. Turn wireless off and read for a week or more before recharging. Fully recharges in 2 hours."

Cost: $399.00

What You Should Look For When Buying Big Appliances...

2008-04-14T20:59:00.004-04:00

If your in the process or going to be in the process of Buying A Major Appliance soon, like a washing maching, dryer, refrigerator, etc...make sure to look for these things before you purchase!

"5 things to Look for in a washing machineTop-loaders ($350 and up) are easy to use, since they don’t require bending over. Front-loaders ($600 and up) use 65 percent less energy and a third less water because their basins don’t completely fill with water. Note, however, that new, pricier top-loaders ($900 and up) rival the energy-efficiency of front-loaders."

Ty Pennington's Quick Tips!

2008-04-14T13:52:00.004-04:00

Here are just a few quick household tips from Extreme Makeover's Ty Pennington:

"• Mix sugar-free Kool-aid with white paint to create your own paint colors! Stir well for a good consistency.
• Run your washing machine with a bit of vinegar (but no clothes!) and it will clean out all the grime and dirt from the hoses. And since there are no chemicals involved, it's good for the environment!
• Silence your squeaky hinges with a bit of cooking spray!
• Rub your tarnished silverware with a peeled potato and the "spud cleaner" will have your silver shining in no time!"

Make Your Own Dining Room Table...

2008-04-14T13:43:00.004-04:00

It's not what you think...your not going to be sawing and sanding away for hours...it's actually quite simple to Make Your Own Dining Room Table! I saw this on Rachael Ray this morning and it surprisingly seemed easy. This is also a great thing to use if you live in a tiny house or apartment and need to use your space wisely.

"*Voila!* The shelves transform a small table into a dining table set for a party. "What's underneath this is just a tiny little 30-inch table," Kristan explains. And it's easy to store in tight quarters. "Hide it under your sofa, hide it under your bed. When you pull it out you've got a whole dining table."

Shower Smart

2008-04-14T11:35:00.005-04:00

It's a chilly morning and you turn the shower on before you get in so your not jumping into an ice cold wake up call. In the meantime you end up brushing your teeth, making coffee, etc - but do you realize how much water your actually wasting??? You can save about 2,700 gallons of water per year by using the Evolve Tulip Maximum-Flow by Sharper Image, not to mention the amount of money you'll be saving as well.

"To use, simply turn on your shower to run cold water until it warms up, as usual. The moment the water warms to 95°F, evolve automatically cuts the flow of water to a trickle to let you know it's ready.

The water-conservation mode will last as long you want; you can brush your teeth, shave, pick out clothes and, when ready, step into the shower and turn the valve back to its full hot-water cascade."

You Call Them Sweet Pea, Peanut, Pumkin, Princess....

2008-04-14T11:22:00.005-04:00

What's your favorite nickname for your child...snowflake, honey bunny, tiger?? Take a look at Kee-Ka's baby's clothes, bibs, ponchos, bed sheets, hooded towels and more with your favorite child's nickname. Very cute clothing line and they have cute gift ideas for the holidays, twins, etc. Their products are also made from recycled, organic materials - even their gift boxes!

Wacky Bathroom Products!

2008-04-14T11:06:00.005-04:00

Ok, these bathroom products are definitely out there! This Old House lists Wackiest Bath Products like this Twodaloo toilet. Are they serious, who would use this?!? Would you? Could you imagine doing number 2 with your significant other....gross! That's taking your relationship to a whole new level for sure! Then again, there are couples out there wacky enough to 'doo' this.

"Environmentalism has never been so intimate as with the TwoDaLoo, billed as the world's first simultaneous-flush two-seater toilet. The side-by-siders can be emptied individually or in a single 2.6-gallon-saving flush. With a "privacy wall" and LCD television and iPod docking station add-ons, couples (and, perhaps, just good friends) will enjoy doing double duty for Planet Earth."

Check out this site for more creative products to make your bathroom definitely unique!

Literally Frame Your Inner Beauty!

2008-04-11T12:59:00.003-04:00

This was mentioned on Rachael Ray this morning and is pretty weird but worth mentioning because it's just so odd. You can make art out of your DNA, seriously! You order your DNA sample kit, when it arrives take a sample of your DNA, put it in an envelope and send it back to the company. The company then extracts your DNA from the sample and makes art! Very pop art and unique. They also do fingerprints and lips. For more information check out DNA11.

If you are interested in making art out of yourself, be warned, it's very pricey. They start from about $190 and up.

Fun News: $100 For A Cup Of Coffee

2008-04-11T12:13:00.002-04:00

Ok, this is absolutely crazy! I heard this in the news today and found an article on CNN....

In London you can get a cup of coffee for $100! That's right, why so much you say? Get this...it's made from cats' droppings!!! Holy crap (literally)! I mean really, is this necessary? Hey mom, I know you're always searching for the best cup of coffee maybe this is it?!?

"The beans of Kupi Luwak are harvested after being ingested by civet cats, and only about 260 kilos (about 573 pounds) of the coffee is produced each year."

Simple Green Tips For Cleaning Supplies

2008-04-11T11:14:00.007-04:00

Don't go crazy about buying "green" products next time you go shopping for cleaning supplies. Use these Simple Tips from BHG to help you know which types of products are better for the environment, like the infamous question paper or plastic. I know some of these tips I've already been using without even realizing it, like this one below:

"Cleaning Stuff
Buy prepared basics or mix your own cleaners using common ingredients."

For an idea of what to mix, my mom makes her own cleaning solution mixing white vinegar, water and a little Top Job or soap. Unfortunately I don't have exact measurements because she eye balls it, but she mixes about 3/4 water with 1/8 vinegar and a splash of ammonia or Top Job, you don't want it to be soapy or leave a film which it will if you put too much vinegar or soap. This will clean pretty much anything including windows.

Here's another tip,

"Natural Scrubbers
Try cellulose or natural sea sponges instead of plastic ones. Old toothbrushes come in handy for cleaning grout."

Green Technology

2008-04-11T10:28:00.004-04:00

Now I don't know much about technology and everytime my family gets together there's always a conversation about which types of services (like Verizon or Cable) are cheaper or is an LCD or plasma tv better? So I was watching Live With Regis And Kelly this morning and they had some interesting Green Technology products and tips that I found useful and can use in such heated debates over the dinner table. For example, if you're like me and do not know the difference between LCD or plasma, don't worry! Here's one important fact to know... an LCD TV consumes much less power than a plasma. These types of televisions are expensive as is, so don't spend more money on the electric bill!

They also had a couple of cool gadgets to monitor how much power anything plugged in consumes, it's called Kill A Watt ($25). There's also a Kill A Watt EZ ($35) version which allows you to put your cost per kilowatt hour that will monitor the plugged in device giving you a cost per week, month or year. This also has a back up battery so it can be unplugged and still give you the information.

This product was definitely interesting, it's a Reware Juice Tote Bag ($250) for charging phones and PDA's on the beach! Great for those who constantly need to be connected, but personally when I'm on the beach I don't want to be bothered. =)

Now here's something that I think is a great idea and I hope it takes effect soon. The US Post Office has a pilot program called The "Mail Back" program. This program recycles cameras, cell phones and MP3 players (small gadgets). It's currently being tested in 10 cities in 1,500 participating offices, so you would just grab a free envelope and mail in your old small gadget or inkjet cartridge for free! Hopefully if there's enough people using this program it will become nationwide.

On a side note, Bryant Gumbel was hosting again today because Regis was out, and I wonder when Regis does retire is Mr. Gumbel going to take his place? Will the show be Live with Bryant and Kelly?!? He's been on many times before, and him and Kelly have a great connection...hhhmmmm.

Rain Drops Keep Falling...

2008-04-10T12:37:00.003-04:00

Spring is in the air...and so is the sound of sprinklers! Do you know that about 40% of household water is used during the summer months by a homeowner?! That's a whole-lot-a-water and money down the drain! Well here's a little idea that I found and hope will help you cut down on that water bill and be a little bit greener all around. =)

HGTV suggests installing rain barrels. These are large containers that capture the rainwater at the end of the drain pipe. You can then use the recycled water to water your garden! You can also make these barrels yourself, click here.

"To save a little water from going down the drain, Hungerford offers a simple, efficient, low-cost method for homeowners to collect and recycle water. She suggests installing rain barrels, which are simply large containers that capture rainwater at the end of your downspout. According to Hungerford, a quarter-inch of rain falling on the average home yields a little over 200 gallons of water. A rain barrel can be filled within a matter of minutes during a good rain."

Don't Leave Your Plants Out To Dry!

2008-04-10T12:21:00.004-04:00

My mom could barely take care of the house plants while she was home let alone on vacation, so we got her a cactus! However, if you do take good care of your plants but not sure how to care for them while your gone, follow these tips from Real Simple to keep them fresh and alive. House plants are like pets, you need to take care of them while you're away, so whether it's a weekend or a week make sure they have plenty of water.

"If you’ll be gone for more than a weekend: Give plants a thorough soaking before you leave. Move plants out of direct sunlight, and group them together in one cool, medium-light area to cut back on their water needs."

DIY: Window Treatments

2008-04-09T12:28:00.004-04:00

I wish I was more crafty because some ideas I love, but too lazy or spastic to do! So I try to look for simple DIY ideas that I would actually try, meaning it wouldn't take too much of a Martha Stewart skill. I found these 10 Bargain Window Treatment Ideas on BHG, and they were pretty simple and cute. Here's one that I liked and think I could handle: =)

"Top It with a Scarf:
How to Make It
-- Purchase two women's
dress scarves in patterns and colors that fit your decor.
-- Cut in half, hem.
-- Lay them over top of panel and pin in place.
-- Sew one at a
time (bottoms scarf first)."

Of course, you could use any dress scarves that you already have to save even more money.

They also have some great ideas for kid's rooms as well, like this one:

"Button Burst:
How to Make It
-- Arrange the buttons in a pattern
you like on the panel.
-- Using fabric glue, glue the buttons into
place.
-- Lay flat to dry."

Peek-A-Boo: Window Treatments

2008-04-09T12:07:00.006-04:00

Tis' the season! Summer is right around the corner, so it's time to change those heavy, dark drapes for something lighter and brighter. If you get overwhelmed or confused by all those choices for blinds and curtains, check out Guide To 11 Of The Most Popular Window Treatments from iVillage. It will give you a few helpful tips on which blinds work best in your home/office and the difference between sheer and lined curtains.

"Wooden venetian blinds, in wide (my preference) or narrow slats, are a terrific choice. They look chic in a study, library or bedroom. You can find wooden blinds in lots of finishes, from lightly pickled to dark mahogany. Their fabric tapes, which come in a wide range of colors, can be coordinated with the fabric on upholstered furniture. In a kitchen, for example, white blinds with red tape can immediately brighten and bring cheer. Make sure the cord is on the less conspicuous side (and in the kitchen, away from the stove.)"

And if you're looking for window treatments on a budget, check out their Window Treatment Chic: Budget-Friendly Window Coverings.

"Napkin Valance
This window treatment won't obstruct light and creates a fun quirky look. Napkin valances are a great solution for apartment dwellers who may not want to invest in expensive curtains that might get damaged or dirty from high traffic or excessive sunlight.

Materials:
Napkins or dish towels
Clip-on curtain rings
Window rod

To Make:1. Tie one corner of each napkin into a knot.2. Clip each napkin to a curtain ring and enjoy your cute, cozy valance!"

Soft Luxury For Babies

2008-04-08T11:00:00.005-04:00

Adults aren't the only ones who like luxurious things in the bedroom. You can now add a little luxury to a baby's room with this 100% certified USA organic cotton veleur blanket trimmed with a natural silk charmeuse by Robbie Adrian. The blankets can be a little pricey, but are very pretty and soft. This would make a great baby shower gift as well.

Cost: $44-116

Urban Myth: Drink A Lots Of Water?

2008-04-08T10:31:00.005-04:00

We've all heard at one point in our life or another that we should drink lots of water throughout the day, either to feel less hungry, improve skin tone, reduce headache frequency or to lead to more toxin excretion, but there's no real scientific proof behind these claims. So what's the deal, are these facts or myths? Well A Study Debunks Value Of Guzzling Water was done by two doctors at the University of Pennsylvania who reviewed the health effects of drinking lots of water. One doctor, Dr. Goldfarb said,

"Our bottom line was that there was no real good science -- or much science at all -- behind these claims, that they represent probably folklore."

This doesn't mean to stop drinking water altogether or to decrease your intake necessarily, but

"A little mild dehydration for the most part is OK, and a little mild water excess for the most part is OK. It's the extremes that one needs to avoid."

On that note, it reminds me of a story that I heard on the radio around a year ago, about a woman who died from drinking an excessive amount of water for a radio contest. I thought this was crazy because who would of ever thought you could die from drinking a lot of water! But you can, it's called water intoxication. Don't worry, you're not going to suddenly die if you're drinking a liter or two of water a day! It's most likely to happen to marathon runners and people who drink multiple liters like in drinking contests that should becareful. So without hesitation you may go back to refilling that bottle of water. =)

Your Home Remedies

2008-04-07T21:24:00.005-04:00

I love learning about various home remedies because everyone seems to have their own "cure" for headaches, colds, pimples, etc. I know I've posted previously some remedies for such things, but if those haven't worked for you, try these!

The Editor-in-Chief from Prevention Magazine was on The View yesterday morning and gave some great tips for getting rid of nosebleeds, headaches, colds, nasal congestion, warts, hiccps and more! Here's one with a good use for olive oil, and not for your cooking needs:

"Hemmoroids: Olive oil
• Dab a little on a wad of cotton or tissue and wipe affected area.
• Why it works: It has anti-inflammatory properties."

For more remedies from Prevention, check out their Natural Remedies. I'm going to try this one personally, because Beeno just doesn't seem to work for me!

"Flatulence
Sip 1 cup hot water steeped with 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, which stifle the nzymatic action that causes gas."

Drinking Inside Out

2008-04-03T09:48:00.006-04:00

Okay, so I looked into entertainment trends and found this glassware called Inside Out by Dutch designer Alissia Meika. I have to say it is really innovative but I'm not sure how I feel about them. They're cool looking but it doesn't really do anything for me. Would you use these at you're next party?

However, what I really do like is her candle holders using the same concept. Those I think are really fun and creative, and definitely would buy. What's also great about them is that they range in between $2.95 - $9.95 and are available at Crate & Barrel!

Entertaining Decor On A Budget!

2008-04-03T09:34:00.005-04:00

I came across these cute and simple ideas from Real Simple's Jennifer Sbranti on how to decorate on a budget when entertaining. We all know how expensive party decorations can be, between linens, napkin rings, table centerpieces, and so on. Well check out these Entertaining On A Budget ideas to save a few bucks and still have a chic party!

"Wrap vases with decorative scrapbook paper to create unique decór that perfectly matches your party theme.

Use decorative paper, patterned ribbon, or botanical elements such as holiday berry spray for quick and easy napkin 'rings'."

Girl Getaways

2008-04-02T13:56:00.004-04:00

Weekend getaways with the girls is on the rise. More and more women are planning vacations together, spa days, weekend trips, etc. This growing trend is generating tailored vacation packages towards these types of trips. Check out USA Today's article Where The Boys Aren't to get a sense of the "slumber party getaways."

Click here if you would like to get a list of their fun filled getaway packages All Female Getaways Offer Wine, Other Women And Strong Bonds.

"Sex and the City Pajama Party Package
You can never have too much of a good thing. Just as demand for Carrie and her crew in the "Big Apple" made reruns of "Sex and the City" a necessity, demand for The Muse Hotel's Pajama Party Package has made it necessary for us to bring back this popular package. Just $349 per night per person,* this indulgent package
includes:

Sinfully spacious accommodations
In-room massages
Midnight milk
and cookies
Breakfast in bed
Hair products (the ones they use in the TV
show)
Tour of the famous foursome's hip haunts - shopping at Jimmy Choo's
and sipping Cosmos at ultra-chic Tao

*Rates are per person, per night, Friday through Sunday. Deluxe king or double room, based on double occupancy and availability. Extra person starting at $195 and additional nights are $199 per person, breakfast included. Room tax and gratuity not included.The Muse Hotel reserves the right to change or substitute items offered without notice. Travel agent commission is 10 percent on room rate. "Sex and the City" and all related characters are the property of HBO Television. The Muse Hotel and Kimpton Hotels are in no way associated with the aforementioned entities."

Wake Up To The Best Cup Of Coffee

2008-04-02T12:40:00.008-04:00

This next post is for my mom, who is forever in search of a good cup of coffee. I've heard of various vacation tours, but this is one I haven't thought of or heard of, which I don't know why because it makes sense...why not plan your next trip around some of the world's best coffee.

Some of the best coffee tours are located in countries and cities that are amazing, so it's not like you would be planning a boring uncultural trip. Frommer's Get a Global Caffeine Fix with These Coffee-Inspired Tours lists places such as Cafe Britt in Costa Rica. I've heard Costa Rica is beautiful and a popular tourist destination spot. I've been dying to go for years but haven't been able to do so, it's definitely on my list of top destinations. I mean it has gorgeous beaches and great coffee...can you get any better?!? Now only if my mom can get over her fear of flying!

"Café Britt (http://www.cafebritt.com/), perhaps the best known of the Costa Rican coffee companies, runs tours at its Heredia, Costa Rica plantation and production facility, about 20 minutes outside San Jose. It is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions and the three-hour Coffee tour features a walk through their organic coffee plantation, a tour of the roastery, a multi-media presentation and coffee cupping demonstrations. Tours cost $20 for adults and $16 for children aged six to 11. It runs twice daily from December 16 to April 30 and at other times and dates for group reservations. With pick-up service transportation, the price for adults is $37 or $33 for kids (children five and under are free). For a more specialized visit, try their Coffee Lovers' Tour, said turns coffee enthusiasts into coffee experts."

Shopping For Towels?

2008-04-02T12:18:00.004-04:00

I don't know about you, but I never really put much thought into towel buying, either I like them or I don't. But apparently there are softness scams, who knew! I personally never heard of such a thing before until I found out out Good Housekeeping's Towel Buying Guide. So if you're looking for a high quality towel and don't want to be taken for a fool, check out their tips.

"Double-turned edges with double stitching are the key to durability. This reinforcement reduces fraying, which will give your towels a long, thirsty life."

Bathroom Decorating Ideas!

2008-04-02T11:33:00.005-04:00

A lot of bathrooms, at least that I know of, are small making decorating a challenge for this small space. It's rare that bathrooms are large especially in NY...we're lucky we have bathrooms at all! Okay, that was a little over dramatic, but it's just to emphasize how small some of our bathrooms really are.

I've been looking online for useful bathroom decorating tips, but it's hard to find good ideas for small bathrooms. A lot of the decorating ideas that are cool, are great for large, spacious bathrooms and wouldn't work in smaller ones. However, I did find some easy bathroom decorating tips from Better Homes and Gardens that will help that small bathroom look larger. Actually one of the tips provided was used by my mother and aunt who added a second mirror opposite the vanity mirror reflecting an illusion of a larger space. It works!

For more ideas check out Make A Small Bath Look Larger. Here's another one of their tips:

"Lead the Eye Upward
Make a ceiling look taller with some visual tricks. A vertical stripe on the walls can give the illusion of a higher ceiling. Wood moldings, wallpaper borders, and tile designs placed where the walls and ceiling meet will also provide a splash of color and help naturally draw the eye upward. Otherwise, choose a wallpaper with a small airy
print or lattice design. Avoid large or busy patterns that will diminish the scale of the pace."

Don't Flush Those Pills!

2008-04-01T11:45:00.003-04:00

Do you ever wonder where those pills go when you flush them down the toilet or sink?! It may end up in our water supply or soil! That's right, you may be contaminating your environment. For more information click on Medications In The Environment.

"Medications have been detected in very small amounts in surface water bodies (streams, lakes, and rivers) across the United States."

CFL Bulbs...Dangerous?

2008-04-01T11:00:00.001-04:00

I found this interesting because I had no idea, and then I wondered how many of you don't know either...

You know those light bulbs that are so famous for being energy efficient and "forever" lasting (compact florescent light bulbs)? They are potentially dangerous! If these bulbs break, it may leak mercury and require a special clean up. Some cities even consider these bulbs hazardous waste. So before you throw out one of these bad boys, check with your city to see how you should discard them. Although the amounts of mercury in these bulbs are small, there has been a lot of talk lately about how environmentally better they really are.

iVillage has a discussion group regarding the topic that you may find interesting.

Rain Drops Keep Falling On My Head...

2008-04-01T10:39:00.006-04:00

This product is a cool idea, but I'm not sure I would actually use it, would you? It's a hands free umbrella by Nubrella. The concept I really like because how many times I've tried to balance talking on my cell phone, carrying coffee and holding the umbrella on the way to work or around the city! Not the best of times I can tell you that!!

So this would make it much more convenient when it rains, but I think I would feel like the boy in a bubble - and would you be able to really walk down city blocks in this?!? It's hard enough as is with regular umbrellas. I can picture it now, bouncing off people like bumper cars and constantly saying excuse me and I'm sorry, but then again maybe I will give it a shot.

Cost: $49.99

Food Is Not Just For Eating!

2008-04-01T10:11:00.005-04:00

Ok, I found on AOL these useful tips Weird Household Uses For Food, which I found fabulous and very helpful.

Summer time is approaching quickly, which means bbq's and backyard parties will be here before you know it. But what's the one guest we can't stand at these fun filled events...the bugs! I know in my house alone we have everything from tiki torches, to candles, to bug zappers to keep these pests away, but they never seem to work! And living in Long Island it can get very buggy!

I'm definitely going to try this trick:

"Simmer 2 cups of milk, a 1/4 pound of sugar and 2 oz. of ground black pepper for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour the mixture into bowls and put them where the flies will be attracted to them and then drown."

Also check out the site for using peanut butter to get out gum, adding pepper to laundry to keep colors from fading and much much more!

Get a Cup Of Coffee From A 11K Coffee Brewer!

2008-03-31T13:04:00.004-04:00

You're next cup of java from Starbucks may be coming from a 11K Coffee Brewer! Could their coffee get any better??? Yes, this Clover coffee machine is revolutionizing the coffee shop industry. So much buzz has been made about the Clover coffee machine that Starbucks has merged with the company causing controversary among independent coffee shops like Portland, Ore.-based Stumptown Coffee Roasters, who rather give back the machine than write a check to Starbucks.

Unfortunately currently there are only two Clovers in Starbucks in Seattle and three in Boston. Don't worry New Yorkers, you too will be able to get an amazing cup of java soon, but how much will we be paying for it?

"Using a complex brew process, the boxy black and silver Clover aims to coax each of the hundreds of flavors known to reside in the average coffee bean. The menu board behind the Clover at one Seattle Starbucks reads like it was written by wine connoisseur _ comparing the "spicy, cedar notes and syrupy body" of the Aged Sumatra with the "dazzling spice, cocoa, wine and berry flavors" of the Arabian Mocha Sanani.

To brew in the Clover, a barista grinds coffee beans by the cup, then pours them into the brew chamber. The machine sends in a blast of hot water before a piston lifts and pushes down a filter, sending the coffee out through a dispenser."

This Is Not Sugar Coated!

2008-03-31T11:40:00.010-04:00

I am a sugar lova! However I do try to watch my sugar intake and try to use the more "healthier" sugar, even though sugar is sugar. So what's the difference between the light brown sugar and the dark? And what really is raw sugar? I never know although I tend to opt for it if given the option. I've learned that brown sugar isn't unrefined sugar, it's refined sugar with molasses or caramel coloring added to it. Am I the only one whose been fooled this whole time?!

To learn more Get The Sweet Lowdown On Sugar here. It's sugar 101. =)

"BROWN SUGAR (Light and Dark): At first glance, it is easy to assume that brown sugar is unrefined sugar but, alas, it is not. It is refined sugar with a dash of molasses or caramel coloring added to it. (Molasses is a byproduct of sugar refining.) Brown sugars come in light or dark; light has a mild flavor and an almost ash-blond color. Dark brown has a stronger flavor from the greater quantity of molasses in it. Both light and dark sugars require storage in air-and moisture-tight containers. "

The Best Beaches

2008-03-28T14:30:00.005-04:00

I watched this show on the Travel Channel, 21 Beaches With Sex Appeal, and I'm dying to go on vacation lay on the beach all day and party all night! Some of these beaches are gorgeous and full of hot bods...but don't feel intimidated, we're all beautiful! These beaches include beautiful scenery, activities, partying and of course relaxation.

I must visit at least one of the top ten beaches, I mean it may not happen for a few years, but hey it's worth the wait! I'm not really a fan of the American beaches (like Venice and Miami beach) because I've been there done that, and how could you compare that to breathtaking shades of blue water with white sand and amazing scenery...like Ko Phi Phi Island, Thailand.

So if you're planning a beach vacation, check these beaches out before you book your next beach vacation because you may miss out!

Know Where To Get Your Airfare...

2008-03-28T13:59:00.004-04:00

So many travel websites out there, which ones really work?? I personally have a few that I like to use, but I still always wonder am I getting the best deal, hhmmm I wonder....

Hopefully with the advice from Conde Nast Traveller your next trip will be planned smarter, cheaper and with less of a headache! =) Check out their Ultimate Guide To The Best Travel Websites, here's one website that they break down (I think this info is very useful):

"Knowing when to book Winner: Farecast.com
When to use it: After you’ve scoured the Web to turn up the absolute rock-bottom fare. Prices change constantly and the cost of that ticket could drop — a lot — tomorrow, or even in an hour. So the key question is when to buy. The Big Three sites (Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz) and Kayak all offer features designed to address this issue, but the most innovative responses have come from new entrants, including FareCast.

Why we like it: It uses historical pricing trends to determine whether a fare is likely to drop soon. The site searches 90 days in advance for the lowest fare on a given route, then advises to “wait” or “buy.” How accurate is FareCast? After a three-month audit, Navigant Consulting found the predictions were correct 75 percent of the time, and users saved an average of $55 per pair of tickets.
Caveat: It currently covers only domestic flights to 24 cities.

Tip: Consider purchasing the Fare Guard service for $10 per itinerary. If you delay buying a ticket because FareCast predicts the price will drop within the week, Fare Guard protects you from paying more than the current price—of course you may pay less if the fare drops.

Runner up:
FareCompare.com, which receives fare data from the airlines for flights within, to, and from the United States and Canada, and then posts the prices several hours before they appear on travel agency sites — and sometimes even the airlines’ own sites. Set up a “My Trips” account for alerts on pricing trends and the best dates to book."

Not Your Ordinary Grape Juice!

2008-03-26T12:22:00.006-04:00

As an adult I still crave grape juice, but I can no longer gulp down a full glass of Welch's, which I use to love. It's just too sweet for me and to think about all that sugar added...eek!

There's a hot new product on the market called First Blush. This juice is made of natural juices from a variety of the world's finest grapes, and their flavor names like Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet won't make you feel like a kid. You can even use these juices in food recipes, cocktails, smoothies and shakes! Unfortunately they can only be found in select stores, so be sure to check out the store locator. However, I say this is a must-try, cheers!

"All First Blush juices are 100% Natural with No Added Sugar and No Preservatives. Each juice is full of high levels of naturally occurring polyphenol antioxidants which help guard your body against "free radicals." Emerging science suggests that free radical damage may be linked to disease. Scientific studies show numerous other health benefits from drinking varietal grape juice."

Get Front Yard Appeal

2008-03-26T11:45:00.005-04:00

Creating and/or maintaining a front yard is quite a job, especially for those who have never done so. Take a look at these Front Yard Sidewalk Garden Ideas from BHG. Some great tips are included from Decrease Your Yard Maintenance to Create Interest With Curves. One of the tips I like is Make Your Yard Feel Bigger:

"Create an illusion of space if you have a small yard with a street-side planting. This garden adds a layer of dimension to an otherwise shallow front yard. The mix of textures in the garden adds to the effect -- the variety of shapes keeps your attention on the border.

Here's a tip: The border's simple color theme helps it feel larger, too. Cool colors, such as lavender, light pink, and blue often feel farther away than they really are."

Woohoo Spring Is Here, It's Time To Spruce Up Your Garden!

2008-03-26T11:10:00.004-04:00

Spring is in the air with warmer days, birds chirping and flowers blooming.....or are they?? It's that time of year to Get Your Lawn Ready For Spring. Don't procrastinate, this is no easy job, with these basic helpful tips from Jason Cameron from the DIY Network you'll be one petal closer to having a beautiful yard.

"In late spring, mulch garden beds: Remove winter mulch from garden plants in early spring to promote earlier warming of the soil by the sun. New mulches for the summer should be laid down after the soil has warmed and fertilizer has been applied, usually in late spring. If the old winter mulch seems to be in good condition it may be raked back into place for another year. A three- to six-inch layer of mulch is effective in conserving moisture, keeping roots cool by shielding them from the sun, and a six-inch layer will control most weed growth. Do not pile mulch against plant bases; always keep mulch away from plant crowns by a good three to four inches."

Do You Dare?

2008-03-25T10:31:00.007-04:00

Now that you know what foods are best to eat at some of your favorite fast food restaurants, what foods should you stay away from at some of these places. Just because the meal sounds like it's healthy, don't be fooled. Here are 20 Worst Foods In America, it's a shocker!

Like a turkey burger at Ruby Tuesdays is a whopping 1,145 calories, you may want to think twice about ordering that next time, and that's without the fries.

Love Eating Out?!?

2008-03-25T09:54:00.003-04:00

Yum, who doesn't love eating out or ordering in?!? But if you're watching what you eat or don't want to eat "bad," check out America's Top 15 Healthiest Restaurants. Some of the restaurants listed are Denny's, Uno Chicago Grill and P.F. Chang's.

Leech Treatment?!?

2008-03-25T09:39:00.004-04:00

I was watching Live With Regis And Kelly this morning and Demi Moore was on the show. She looked fabulous as always, but what she had mentioned made me cringe...she was talking about leech treatments to detoxify the blood! Eeewww!! She said that her first treatment they placed a leech on her belly button...ouch! She's had this treatment personally done four times.

So I looked into this treatment, and I found on MSNBC that the FDA Approves Leeches As Medical Device. Ummm no thank you, I think I'll try to cleanse my body with a ton of liquids first!

"For many people, leeches conjure up the image of Humphrey Bogart removing the bloodsuckers from his legs in African Queen, but FDA reports that leeches can help heal skin grafts by removing blood pooled under the graft and restore blood circulation in blocked veins by removing pooled blood."

Is Your Kid Picasso?!?

2008-03-24T12:49:00.004-04:00

Does your child think they're Picasso by drawing on walls in the house with crayons or markers?!? As much as you love your child(ren) and try to encourage their artistic side, their creativity is best to be expressed on paper! But for those of us who do encounter such priceless pieces of art, here's a few tips to get those marks out. From lifetips.com, to get out marker from wallpaper try,

"To remove an alcohol-based marker stain, spray the area with non-oily hair spray or rubbing alcohol.If the marker is oil based, apply a little lighter fluid (using caution, as this is highly flammable).If the marker is water-based, use dishwashing liquid mixed with color-safe bleach or prewash spray. Spray lightly, rub gently, then dry."

For crayon try,

"Sprinkle baking soda on a damp cloth then rub gently. The baking soda should be gentle enough for most wall coverings, including paint and wallpaper."

You may also want to try using dryer sheets and Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser, they have been used by moms alike.

Something Different

2008-03-24T11:03:00.005-04:00

I think these household items on Oprah At Home Magazine are modern and so cute for kid friendly homes. Take a look at this cool Splash Bottle Drying Rack (see above). It's both vibrant with color and modern in design. Use it to for baby bottles or narrow drinkware. It also has a scrub brush to get into those hard to reach narrow bottles!

Cost: $28

Purchase at Baby Center.

Check out these crazy Stainz-R-Out Moppers microfiber dust slippers! Next time you drag your feet out of bed, slip into these to pick up particles and spills along the way. Save on paper towels, these are machine washable.

Cost: $19.75

Purchase at HSN.

Last but not least, my favorite item from the list are these Grab And Dry Dish-Towel Gloves! How many times does a plate or glass slip from your hands and break while your trying to dry it with a dish towel?! Now you can get a good grip with these gloves and there's a waterproof linening for your hands so you don't have to worry about getting all pruny!

Cost: $15 for a pair

Purchase at Uncommon Goods.

After The Holiday Party, Clean Green!

2008-03-21T14:24:00.009-04:00

If you're hosting a holiday party this weekend, try using these green cleaning tips from Evette Rios on the Rachael Ray Show. They're quick and simple eco-friendly combinations of household products that you probably already have in your home. Here's one tip of How To Clean And Stay Green if you have dull silverware but don't have silver cleaner...

"Fill a large pan with water and line the bottom with a sheet of aluminum foil. Add a squirt of dish soap and pour lots of salt on top. Put the tarnished silver in the water and let it sit. Make sure that the foil is touching the tarnished area. The aluminum foil will act as a vacuum and suck off all of the tarnish. "

She also gives some interesting tips on how to clean those baked on stove stains and your LCD-TV - like if you add vinegar to baking soda it will help cut the grease on the stove, and if you use an old dryer sheet to wipe your LCD-TV, it will repel dust because it's a static remover.

These are great tips even for cleaning on any occasion!

Before You Throw Out Those Peeps!

2008-03-21T13:42:00.005-04:00

Peeps aren't just for eating once a year anymore, they now have a multi-purpose! Real Simple gives New Uses For Peeps which I think are really cute ideas and would have never thought of. Here's one I thought was interesting and kind of funny...

"Peeps as Hip, Modern Chopstick Holders

You’re seeking a personalized touch at your favorite sushi joint. Bring along a fresh duckie Peep, jauntily place him next to the soy, and never let your chopsticks touch the table again. For a fresh touch, try folding him a cute little hat made of sliced ginger.

Fun Fact: Bargain shoppers, take note — Peeps are typically deeply discounted 50 percent or more the day after Easter."

This actually might be useful to some of us...

"Peeps as Colorful Pin Cushion

Tired of stepping on push pins or being limited to the same chubby tomato pin cushion your granny (and her granny) had? Spritz a little craft sealant on your favorite Peep, then poke away.

Fun Fact: Peeps were made by hand using a pastry tube until 1954, when a machine was invented to create multiple marshmallow chicks at a time. Prior to this time it took 27 hours to make one Peep."

The Mommy Hook

2008-03-21T12:55:00.004-04:00

Listen up mommies, next time you go shopping with strollers and carriages bring this Mommy Hook with you! This great product holds your shopping bags, diaper bags, purses and lots more. You can also attach it to shopping carts. The hooks are light weight, heavy-duty and built to last. I think this would make a great baby shower gift as well!

To purchase click here to find a retail store near you.

New Fab Product: Concealed Cabinet

2008-03-20T12:11:00.007-04:00

The money safe hidden behind a picture frame is infamous as being a non-conspicuous way of hiding valuables, which has been seen plenty of times in tv and movies. But what if the idea of concealing something behind a picture frame wasn't just for valuables, but for other belongings like toiletres or some random household products such as candles and tv remotes?! Well now there is with the Concealed Cabinet. This fabulous invention gives you both extra space for storage while not taking up extra space. You can install these in the bathroom, living room and even your own bedroom! Choose from one of their many different colors and sizes, plus you can put your own photo or piece of artwork in the frame.

Treat Those Tough Top Stains

2008-03-20T11:26:00.004-04:00

We've all experienced at one time or another one of these stains: grass, mud, coffee, champagne, wine, pollen, suntan lotion, candle wax, ketchup, bb-q sauce, beer and chewing gum. Next time one of these stains accidently happen don't panic, try Tackling These 10 Stains....And Winning!

"Pollen: Gently shake the stained item to remove as much pollen as you can. Gently vacuum the fabric to remove more. Use the sticky side of a piece of tape to lift off the remaining particles. Pretreat with a prewash stain remover. Launder with fabric-appropriate bleach."

I used to work in a florist and I always tried to be as careful as possible not to get pollen on my clothes, but that seemed to be impossible. When I did get some on my clothes, what I also found useful was to lightly rub a pipe cleaner over the stain to pick up extra pollen, but make sure not to rub it in!

Having Guests Over For The Holiday...A Few Quick House Cover Ups

2008-03-20T10:05:00.006-04:00

Some of us love hosting parties during the holidays but minor house conditions may prevent us from having friends and family over. If you have beat up wood floors, a lot of clutter, or a stained tablecloth check out some of these 9 Home Fixes To Fake from Good Housekeeping.

"Nicked Table You've got two choices: Marker it or cover it. For the former, try the GHRI's favorite furniture markers, the Guardsman Touch-Up Pen Kit ($5 for three, guardsman.com). Apply to scratch, buff with a soft cloth, and top with a coat of furniture polish. Or just institute your own cover-up: For coffee or end tables, arrange books, coasters, or nibbles on top, or drape with a nice scarf. For the dining room table, need we even say it? Haul out that holiday tablecloth."

Cut Your Grocery Bill In Half!

2008-03-20T09:37:00.004-04:00

Stop running after coupons blowing in the wind down the street or spending three hours prior to food shopping to save a couple of dollars. If none of the above applies to you, then who wouldn't like to save a few extra bucks on their next grocery bill?! I mean milk, cereal and eggs alone is an easy $10 and that's only three items! But, who always has the time to sit there and sift through coupon booklets and penny savers?! And being sort of lazy myself the task can be a bit overwhelming. However, I found a great website called Coupon Mom that gives coupons for pretty much anything and how to get free samples of some of your favorite grocery products! She also gives advice on how to save and so forth. Plus sign up for her 1st copy of her eBook Cut Your Grocery Bill In Half for free! Before heading to the grocery store check out her website.

Forget A Menage A Trois, Try A Fiveway!

2008-03-19T14:17:00.003-04:00

Gotcha! But seriously check out this neat gadget 5-In-1 Opener By Zyliss, it's an all purpose opener! Don't workout just to open a lid on a jar, or fight the can opener to open a can of tuna fish and better yet ruin your perfectly polished manicure. This 5-IN-1 Opener even features an innovative tab that helps open the tabs on cans. Here's what else it does:

"Use to open plastic and metal twist-off caps, metal bottle caps, beverage
cans and pop tops.

Comfortable grip for better hold and easier use.

Helps release lid on hard to open jars.

Offered in white/blue, yellow/black and black/red"

Cost: $5.99

Moms-To-Be...

2008-03-18T12:09:00.003-04:00

If you're pregnant for the first time, bringing home your infant can be nerve wracking. I mean it's not like you get an instruction manual on your way out of the hospital...or can you? Check out SafetyMate For The New Parent which is a handheld interactive first aid guide. Some of the first aid categories it includes are: CPR, Burns, Choking/Breathing, Allergic Reaction, Breathing, Seizures, Poison/Bites/Stings, Falls/Bone Injury. For more information on the Safety Feature's check out the website. It retails for about $150. Make it a baby shower gift!

Cool New Household Products!

2008-03-18T11:23:00.008-04:00

I was watching the Today Show this morning, and they did a segment on Hottest New Household Items from the 2008 International Home & Housewares Show. Some of the products were really cool like:

The Wonder Tablitz which are cleaners that are shipped to you empty with three tablets inside. Once you receive the empty bottle all you do is fill it up with water. The cost of shipping a full bottle of cleaner is expensive and that's why cleaners cost like $6, but a refill package of these tablets are less than $5! You're also helping the environment by reusing the same bottle rather than throwing out the old one to buy a new one.

Another product I thought was pretty cool was the Handpresso®. Now you can have a double shot of espresso anywhere you go! You just pour in hot water, add the coffee pack to the unit, pump about 30 times to create pressure and then pour. This would make a cool unique gift for those coffee lovers. Mother's Day and Father's Day are right around the corner, wink! The cost is about $150 in specialty stores, check out the product's website for more information.

Host A Panini Party!

2008-03-17T15:07:00.004-04:00

Sick of serving up the same ol' appetizers and finger foods at parties...what about serving panini?! You can make assorted ones (like vegetarian, italian, healthy, all cheese) which is great for picky guests, and for guests who like anything can sample a little of everything! Top Chef's Tom Colcchio, a recent guest on Rachael Ray, gives some great panini ideas. One of his top panini recipe's is the his Buffalo Chicken Panini. Here are some of Tom's panini bar tips:

"If you don't have a little fancy panini machine, you don't have to worry. You can actually make them in a cast iron skillet and just use a smaller one to weigh them down. If you don't have cast iron, you could still do it in a stainless steel pan and use something heavy to weigh the sandwich down. One thing about paninis is that they shouldn't be overstuffed. Typically, if you put too much in there, it starts to steam and you want paninis to be really crispy."

Paint Your Home Green!

2008-03-17T12:21:00.005-04:00

The fumes from paint can leave us a little light headed. According to HGTV, try to choose a paint with low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) instead. These paints are being developed in new designer colors with improved quality making it a little safer for both you and the planet Earth.

"If you don't mind a paint fume buzz, try recycled paints. Filtered, reprocessed latex keeps harmful chemicals out of the landfill and at $5 to $7.50 a gallon, they’re a bargain. Colors and finishes are sometimes limited, though.."

Sources: Low VOC Sherwin-Williams Harmony, Benjamin Moore, Pristine EcoSpec.
Recycled: Kelly Moore, Sundance Prairie Paint.

Don't Flush Away Savings!

2008-03-17T11:44:00.003-04:00

Changing your toilet bowl is one easy way to save money and go green. According to HGTV, by switching to a toilet with dual flush buttons you're likely to save about $100 a year and conserve water. The dual flush buttons let you opt for a 1.6 gallon flush, or a .8 gallon flush. Two sources for the dual flush toilets are:

http://www.caromausa.com/
http://www.us.kohler.com/

Cool Gadget: JumpSnap

2008-03-17T08:33:00.003-04:00

Always making excuses why you can't workout? You don't have a gym membership, you don't have time, you're on vacation, home equipment costs too much, blah blah blah. There will always be an excuse unless you put your mind to it and I hope this cool gadget will help push you to do a little something. It's called JumpSnap, it's inexpensive as far as equipment goes and great for a cardio workout. We all don't have the room we need to jump rope in our own house, but JumpSnap is "ropeless." That's right, you can skip, hop, jump without falling or tripping, it also has a built in computer to calculate how many calories you burn, and it's portable - so now you can take it anywhere! Style.com featured this product in their beauty guide.

Cost: $59.95

Purchase at http://www.jumpsnap.com/.

Fabulous Product: Luxe Link

2008-03-15T18:27:00.004-04:00

I saw this product on the Rachael Ray and thought this would make a great gift for Mother's Day, birthdays and even for myself! I hate going out to eat or to bars and not having anywhere to put my bag except the dirty, scummy looking floor. Well this neat little product is what we've ladies have been waiting for! Attach one of these luxe links to the table or ledge and you have yourself a hook for your bag, and they're stylish! No more putting the bag on your lap, or on the floor where it's dirty and can get kicked or stepped on. Fabulous idea!

Looking For Coupons?

2008-03-15T18:09:00.004-04:00

Okay I know the video is cheesy, but watch it to find out how to save on your next grocery shopping, or go to http://shortcuts.aol.com/.

Anitque Or Flea Shopping This Weekend?

2008-03-15T09:37:00.003-04:00

If you're planning to go, or have went and bought a piece of furniture you love, but not so much the color it came in - here's a simple "Vintage Decorating Tip" from Parents Magazine.

"Remove hardware, drawers; gently sand and wipe with a cloth soaked in mineral
spirits.
Prime, then paint with two coats of semigloss; it makes removing
dirt and fingerprints easy.
Let dry thoroughly. To create a distressed look,
sand where natural wear might occur -- around knobs and handles and on surface
edges."

Spotting & Fixing Decorating Mistakes

2008-03-15T09:16:00.005-04:00

When I get the urge for change in my house, I suddenly think I'm a house stylist and begin to rearrange everything! I then need to give myself a reality check, because by profession I'm no house stylist (my creative side sometimes isn't that creative), and what I think may look good/chic/sexy, would beg to differ from the house fashion police.

Reading a recent article on The Today Show, "From Hanging Art To Choosing Sofas, 'Domino' Magazine Shares Smart Tips" has helped me fix some of my mistakes and prevented me from making new ones. Here's one tip that is good to know because how many of us feel having two of something in a room is better than one?!

"Pairs of everything

Mistake: Duos are not necessarily bad by definition — but beware of the
Noah’s ark look. Two of everything — like two matching chairs, two matching side tables, two matching throw pillows, two matching plates on the wall, two matching paintings, two matching vases, etc. — makes a room look too matchy-matchy and robs a room of its personality.

Solution: You don’t have to avoid pairs all together, but use pairs
sparingly — mix it up! And if you have an abundance of pairs, don’t despair: Break up your pairs and put one chair in one room and take its twin to another."

An Adults Only Party!

2008-03-14T17:24:00.006-04:00

When friends among friends have kids, it can make it difficult to throw a party for adults only. If your friend can't find a babysitter, do you tell her not to come? Here's a few Party Politics from Cookie Magazine that will help you to handle such situations.

"Occasionally, though, no matter how clear you've been, your cousin Shelly will show up with her 5-year-old and a baggie of chicken fingers. Don't say a word—what's done is done, and making her feel bad won't solve anything. "As a host, it's your job to ignore the breach of etiquette and warmly welcome any uninvited guests, even children," says Kevich. (That said, you might want to reconsider inviting the offender to your next soiree.)"

Hanging Out With Friends Who Have Kids When You Don't

2008-03-14T16:43:00.007-04:00

Sometimes friends who have kids when you don't, can take advantage of your "freedom." What I mean is sometimes a friend with kid(s) will always ask you to drive to them, constantly send you daily updated photos, invite you to kid birthday parties, and put a guilt trip on you for having your time to yourself.

For those who have kids, here's an article from Cookie Magazine of How Not To Annoy Your Friends Who Don't Have Kids. And for those who don't, but who have friends that do, send them this article in reply to those daily updated photos.

I luckily can say that my friends who have kids keep a good balance of informing me of their kid(s) cute, adorable habits and updated photos. I love all of their kids and being involved in their lives.

Simple St. Patty's Day Decor

2008-03-14T11:19:00.006-04:00

Four leaf clovers, corn beef and cabbage, Guinness and 'Kiss Me I'm Irish' pins will soon be everywhere. Even the non-Irish are Irish on this one celebatory day. So here are a few Irish Inspired St. Patrick's Day Decor that can make your home a little greener.