Twenty.two Things

Do-goody Two Shoes

2009-09-17T09:10:00.002-05:00

Is it just me, or are these really cute?

TOMS Cordones, $69

Better Than a Toy Inside

2009-08-18T15:41:00.004-05:00

Cereal box masks. Do you remember getting the cereal, and hoping for a mask that you didn't already have, then carefully cutting it out? Or maybe punching it out. Something like that. I vaguely remember a monkey as my favorite. This Halloween, instead of stressing out about a costume, I may just wear one of these. If only I could find that monkey...

Saturday's Child

2009-07-29T10:23:00.002-05:00

Along with every other foodie in America, I am currently obsessing about Julia Child. Digging out my old copy of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, reading My Life in France, even perusing Julie Powell's blog. The juxtaposition of those last two leaves me liking JP less and less and JC more and more.

Granted, MAFC is not exactly vegetarian-centric. You've got fifteen varieties of roast chicken, you've got your veal stock, your recipes that involve digging out bone marrow -- you get the picture. However, you can't argue with a good beurre blanc. And there's a reason the cookbook is a classic; the way it takes you step by step through the techniques, the love of food that's inherent in the whole project, the butter... Then, there's Julia herself. She didn't even start cooking until she was in her mid-thirties, and then she jumped right into a professional cooking course at one of the world's most prestigious culinary schools, ten hour days of practice, and then co-writing a cookbook that two other people had been working on for years. Impressive, n'est-ce pas?

That's why August 15th, on Julia's birthday, I'll be doing what every other foodie in America is doing: gathering friends and coercing them into cooking elaborate, butter-laden, impractical dishes, stuffing ourselves with said dishes, then going to see a movie that isn't Harry Potter.

Marquise My Words

2009-04-08T09:44:00.004-05:00

Alas, I fear this chair will never be mine. Those dreaded words, "price upon request," have sealed my fate. But isn't it scrumptious? All one needs is a cashmere/alpaca throw, a cup of Raspberry Earl Grey, a good book, silk pajamas, and a rainy day. Even as I was mentally redecorating my living room around it, I realized -- hey, it already fits in! But if I had all the money in the world...or enough to ignore the PUR tagline...my furniture would consist of a few these and a chaise longue or two (hot pink).

www.decofinder.com, Price Upon Request (grr)

Bag Kismet

2009-03-13T14:00:00.002-05:00

I'll admit I've been a bit uninspired about blogging lately, but that was until I saw THIS. This fabulous-in-every-way, fair trade, recycled, super-cute handbag, which will be mine someday, as God is my witness. I found it while checking out the "competition" on eBay's World of Good site, a great place to buy gifts, but not as good as, oh let's say...Ten Thousand Villages.

worldofgood.ebay.com, $25

Brought to You by the Letter A

2009-03-04T11:57:00.003-05:00

Advocaat
Annie
The A Team
Avocados
Africa
and...that's
about it (for now).

Important Notice

2009-02-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Strawberries are the new cupcake.

The cute strawberry above is from crackersandhoney.com, BTW.

For The Rest of Us

2009-02-20T18:48:00.004-05:00

In browsing my old posts, I came across some fabulous, water-lily-esque salad servers, which were, of course, more expensive than anything I would buy on my do-gooding, non-profit-type salary.* These, however, are beautiful and affordable. And fair trade!! Ha. You thought I was going to get through a month without a fair trade reference, didn't you?

Never!

www.serrv.org, $20

*That sentence involved an excessive amount of dashing. Sorry. It's Friday, and I have had way too many homemade fair trade** chocolate truffles.

**I did it again.

Raindrops on Roses

2009-02-20T18:44:00.005-05:00

I have to post this for two reasons. One, seeing the words "Pink Buttercream Frosting Lip Gloss Ring" made me exclaim in astonished but delighted profanities. Two, seeing the blank blog page was too, too depressing.

So, Pink Buttercream Frosting Lip Gloss...in a RING!!!! No, I would never wear this. Yes, I would buy it anyway and be very, very happy to have it.

www.jacquabeauty.com, $8

Pavlova-Mania

2008-12-29T18:27:00.004-05:00

Okay, I haven't actually gotten as far as making one, but I've been thinking about it for a long time. Specifically, since I started making ice cream and needed something to do with the egg whites. Other than throw them away, which is what I've *been* doing. But only after assiduously putting them in an airtight container in the fridge with the intention of making Pavlova out of them, and then leaving them there for weeks (or months, if we're being honest).

I think you're missing the point. Maybe I've never made one. Or eaten one (again, with the honesty!) But pavlovas are awesome. They're going to be big. And crusty. With a marshmallowey center.

The Long Da Svidaniya

2008-12-20T12:04:00.004-05:00

I've never been all that fascinated with Russia. The literature's depressing, it's cold, and the cuisine seems to be fairly meat-centric. But lately Russia seems to be popping up everywhere. Russian poetry to be exact. I don't know what that means, but thought I'd say it now so that later I can say "я сказал вас так." And, hey, it turns out that Russian poetry, unlike Russian novels (shudder), is pretty darn good.

Oh, and you should definitely get a copy of Regina Spektor's Begin to Hope immediately. Unless you hate innovative, catchy, good music by a talented singer-songwriter. In which case... you shouldn't.

www.amazon.com, $13.99

2008-11-22T10:57:00.000-05:00

Now that I can do the I-told-you-so dance (which involves a lot of hip shaking and some jumping about from foot to foot) about the whole lemon thing (exhibit a: July's House Beautiful, exhibit b: the new Bigelow lip gloss at Bath and Body Works) the question is...what next? In a word, lychee. I had never eaten fresh lychees until my recent trip to Thailand, but I did my best to make up for lost time. And now I've discovered a source IN GREENSBORO. That's right, it's the fabulous, fantastic Super Mart. Yay!

Lychees, however, will not be featured at the family Thanksgiving. I don't think my family is ready for that.

Super Super Mart

2008-10-30T10:15:00.003-05:00

For some people, grocery shopping is a chore, but I love it. I love the brightly colored stacks of produce, the obscure condiments, the olive bar, and most of all, the inherent potential in all those choices. Yesterday, I found my Mecca -- a grocery store specializing in Asian and Latin ingredients, and not just a cramped little corner store, but a huge store full of stuff I had never even seen. Even better, full of stuff I *had* seen and hadn't been able to find in the U.S. The next time you're in little old Greensboro, NC, check out the Super Mart at Fanta City on West Market Street. Some of the treasures I found included: Kirin Afternoon Tea (Japan, something for which I've been searching for a decade), guarana (Brazil), S & B Golden Curry Sauce (Japan), fresh lychees (Southeast Asia), and G7 3 in 1 coffee (Vietnam, pictured left).

Favorite Products

2008-10-30T08:49:00.000-05:00

Between the economy and the election, I think we could all use a little dose of frivolity. And make-up. Hence, the list of all time favorites -- the few things I have found myself purchasing more than once being the fickle cosmetics junkie that I am, always on the look out for the next great thing.

Speaking of the economy, the first item on the list is an absolute bargain. Wet N Wild lipliner #666 (I know!) at your local drugstore for 99 cents. That's right, less than a dollar and it looks good on virtually everyone. You can wear it with a variety of lipstick colors if you not only line but fill in your lips with it because the color is close to that of a natural lip tone, and filling in with a lip liner will make your lipstick last longer.

You Won't Find National Treasure 3 Here

2008-10-20T17:21:00.001-05:00

I don't *technically* own a DVD player, so maybe I shouldn't be writing this, but several months ago I found a very cool site, GreenCine, Netflix for those who are too cool for Netflix. Sure, Netflix used to be cool -- before everyone had tried it. Now, there's an online movie rental company for those who have tired of Netflix and/or given up on mainstream cinema. Perks include obscure movies not available on Netflix, member lists and interesting articles if you're looking for a rental inspiration, and a wittily written FAQ page. Witness:

" Green Halo
Some members have green boxes around their icon in the message boards. The green "halo" denotes a GreenCine staff member, who has stepped out of lurking mode to respond to a message. Note: In real life, GreenCine employees don't actually have a green box around them. This would be very cumbersome and make getting around rather difficult. They do, however, faintly resemble their icon pictures."

www.greencine.com

Crema de la Crema

2008-10-20T12:25:00.001-05:00

I know it's getting a little cold for this (okay, I started writing this post five months ago), but since the beginning of the summer, homemade ice cream has been my latest obsession (second only to the Blackberry, and now, Facebook). I've made two flavors -- caramelized banana-cardamom and orange dulce de leche. I've read a lot of recipes, articles about ice cream makers, and have fantasized about the various obscure concoctions I could create. Of course, I won't be making vanilla. The more unusual the flavor, the better. Avocado, check. Muhallabia, courtesy of the Moosewood Cookbook, check. The White Mountain electric ice cream maker I picked up at a yard sale two years ago has churned up amazingly creamy stuff. It's ridiculously loud and somewhat messy, but for five bucks, it was a pretty good deal. The dulce de leche, which I made last weekend, had my dad and brother planning a new career in artisanal ice cream for me.

If you, too, would like to join in the ice cream obsession, here's an interesting article to get you started: http://www.slate.com/id/2121378/

The Quest

2008-10-20T10:41:00.000-05:00

I'm currently having a nail polish crisis. That is, if such a thing exists. Perhaps, considering the AIDS epidemic in Africa, flooding in Bangladesh, and the current state of the U.S. economy, it's a minor detail. But I'd be lying if I said I didn't think about it.

As usual, I have concocted the ideal in my mind, and now find that it doesn't seem to exist. A deep but true red, with a red and gold metallic shimmer to it. Not cranberry, not burgundy, but somewhere in between. Super shiny. Sort of like the finish on a car.

That's what I want. What have I found? Black and eggplant. OPI's Midnight in Moscow and Royal Raja Ruby, respectively. Okay, on that last one, I might have been unduly influenced by the name. But in my defense, the description is "jeweled burgundy."

Next up, Bastille My Heart.
www.ulta.com, $

Leave a Kiss but in the Cup

2008-10-18T14:17:00.003-05:00

It looks like I'm on a food and wine kick, probably because I'm dog sitting, and the house where I'm staying has yielded my latest reading material -- back issues of Food and Wine.

There's something to be said for the random selection of a bottle at the grocery store. Although I don't recommend picking it because you like the bottle (it took the incident of the infamous fish bottle wine to bring that chapter of my life to a close) but on occasion, you luck out. And that's how I found this wine. At least, that's how I remember it. The truth is, it's been a long time since I discovered it, and I've been holding out on you so that I have an unusual and delicious option to bring to parties and impress everyone with my wine savvy. But now the secret's out. It's good enough to make a wine drinker out of you if you aren't one now.

Here's a link to an article about the wine:

www.boxwines.org
$6, at your local wine shop

An Apple by Any Other Name

2008-10-18T14:08:00.004-05:00

After years of eating nothing but Granny Smiths because every other kind of apple seemed to have a mealy texture by the time it got to the grocery store, I've discovered a new favorite -- the Honeycrisp. If you haven't had one of these, try it the next time you find them at the store. They're sweet but very crisp. Hmmm...maybe that's why they're called Honeycrisp. According to the research I've done, they have a long shelf life as well, but as delicious as they are, they won't hang around in my fruitbowl long enough to find out.

The Flavor That You Savor

2008-09-20T15:13:00.005-05:00

I don't know about the peach gnocchi currently featured on www.101cookbooks.com , but I do know that for the past several months, the idea of mixing up savory/sweet foods has been very appealing. Most recently, I made a curried apple couscous, which was quite good, and a basil infused lemonade, which was even better. In fact, I have an idea those curried apples will reappear sometime in the form of a tart. More on that later.

Basil Lemonade picture courtesy of shewhoeats.blogspot.com

The Canadian Bob Dylan

2008-09-20T12:30:00.004-05:00

I've been in love with Jeff Buckley's version of "Hallelujah" for a long time, but maybe it's time to give Leonard Cohen a shot as more than a songwriter. His later stuff seems a little over-produced, but Songs of Leonard Cohen, his first album, sounds promising (according to the oh-too-brief Amazon samples I heard).

I guess he can't help being born Canadian.

Songs of Leonard Cohen, $10.99
www.amazon.com

Living on the Edge

2008-09-16T13:27:00.003-05:00

Despite the fact that I can't shop right now (due to the new car, and more concisely, the new car payment), I can't resist the delicious torture of browsing through all the high heels on www.gojane.com. How they manufacture such cuteness for under thirty bucks...well, let's not think about that. Just look at them. The leopard print buckle. The yellow patent pump. The peep toes. The platforms.

Sigh.

Crocodile Peep Toe Platform, $21.99
www.gojane.com

Dream On

2008-09-16T12:12:00.001-05:00

Why can't all clothes be this cute?

And fair trade.

And affordable.

For me.

Radiant Receptionist Dress, $87.99
www.modcloth.com

A Holiday of Infinite Jest

2008-09-16T08:55:00.000-05:00

Although Halloween has the added attraction of costumes, the Day of the Dead is pretty cool, too. Sure, there's been an overabundance of pseudo-punk, cutesy skull products floating around this year, but you have to love the sheer over-the-topness of this one. Plus, it's fair trade.

Two years ago, I tried to feature some of Tu Pueblo's products in my store, but I don't think the southern ladies who lunch are ready for the Day of the Dead. Are you?

Frida Skull Wall Hanging, $65
www.tupuebloimports.com

Sponge Worthy

2008-09-16T08:38:00.000-05:00

Necklaces have been the thing all summer. Now that we'll be wearing scarves -- it's getting cold, you know, and by "cold" I mean below seventy degrees -- there's no room, really. So, let's see some fabulous earrings and maybe even a ring or two. Or three. I'm feeling a return to rings...more on that later.

For now, fabulous earrings, courtesy of a newly discovered site, shopcatchingfireflies.com

earrings, $14
www.shopcatchingfireflies.com

Don't Moc Me

2008-07-30T16:03:00.003-05:00

I'll admit it. I'm obsessed with my car: with its cuteness, its convertibleness, and especially with being able to drive it. Let's pretend that I *am* a badass stick-shifting driver, and in that dream, let's pretend that these are the shoes I'm wearing. Never mind the fact that they cost twice my monthly car payment. Because you can't drive in platforms.

www.neimanmarcus.com
$425

Because You're Not Really Living

2008-07-30T15:49:00.004-05:00

I find this picture slightly hilarious (is that possible? I mean, if something's hilarious, it's hilarious; otherwise, it's just funny), but wanted to make sure the public has been thoroughly educated about tying scarves in the proper manner. That's because everyone should immediately ditch his/her sedan (if you're a "his" and you're reading this, please *don't* wear The Kelly). Ditch the sedan and (drumroll) get a convertible.

Seriously.
www.cars.com

Do Good, Feel Good

2008-07-30T15:45:00.002-05:00

I promise I'll never post a picture of a dead baby seal choked on a plastic bag. (You're welcome). That being said, I do reserve the right to remind everyone that plastic bags are evil. Also, all the cool kids are using totes.

Here's your chance to spread the tote-usage in a nice, non-preachy, non-dead-baby-seal way. Have a party, sew some totes, and hand them out to the unwashed masses.

You'll find all the instructions you need, inspiration, etc. at www.morsbags.com.

But Don't Drink the Water

2008-07-30T15:39:00.002-05:00

On my recent trip to Southeast Asia (doesn't that sound totally obnoxious?) I had fresh lychees for the first time. Seeing the canned version packed in syrup was never tempting, but fresh...well, they're amazing. I think it virtually impossible to describe a fruit to someone who's never tasted it, so just take my word for it and look for them at your nearest Asian market. You'll be glad you did.

Train Up A Child

2008-07-30T15:33:00.005-05:00

In the past year, I've discovered the joys of Amtrak. No, not the sitting around in a slightly scummy waiting area or the fact that the train is inevitably running late. I'm talking about the comfortable seats (comparatively speaking), the interesting conversations you overhear, and the fact that you can read the whole time because you're not having to drive. There's also the smug feeling you get for being "green" by saving gas. With the cost of fuel near four dollars a gallon, you might even be saving money.

Check it out.
www.amtrak.com

Not Soylent

2008-06-10T12:46:00.004-05:00

This is one of my favorite cleaning products. In fact, almost the only cleaning product I use. You can buy it in a big, concentrated bottle for $9, clean virtually everything with it, and it lasts forever. Plus, it's non-toxic and biodegradable. What's not to like? It works well for everything but glass (a little streaky, as much as I hate to admit it). I've used it to clean tile, carpet, bathtubs, sinks, stoves, laundry, and on occasion, to kill ants. So, if you have skunk spray or a dirty engine, pick up a bottle. That's per their website, by the way.

$9.58, www.lowes.com

You're Going to be Seeing a Lot of These

2008-06-10T12:43:00.001-05:00

Just Vase It

2008-06-07T15:15:00.005-05:00

If my budget for mantel-dressing were unlimited (or even slightly higher), these would be my next purchase. I know they would look absolutely fabulous against my brown walls.

www.wingardhome.com, $40 - $48

Staples

2008-05-17T15:29:00.004-05:00

This looks like a promising t-shirt, even if it does only come in a few colors (black, white, pink, & blue). One in white, one in black...and the fair trade wardrobe continues...

www.districtcotton.com, $15

Tie Me to the Moon

2008-05-17T08:29:00.003-05:00

The search for cute fair trade clothing is enough to make me want to start my own business. Well, almost enough. A helpful website is www.coopamerica.org which lists ratings and information about mainstream companies, as well as links to sites that feature fair trade, organic, etc. type products. That's where I found a link to Avatar Imports, a fair trade clothing line made in Kathmandu. Very reasonable prices and some cute stuff, if you're willing to wade through the neo-hippie pieces that seem to be the mainstay of fair trade designs. Seriously, people -- enough with the tie dye!

www.avatarimports.net, $32

She Had to Wear Something Under Her Robes

2008-05-14T10:41:00.004-05:00

Next on the shopping agenda, a fair trade camisole from Maggie's Organics. Or maybe a couple. (See previous post, i.e., not Mother Teresa). I'm thinking black and teal. And maybe plum...

www.maggiesorganics.com, $15

It's Only Fair

2008-05-14T09:14:00.005-05:00

Working at a fair trade store and learning about the plight (yes, I said plight) of workers in developing countries will absolutely ruin you for shopping at all the places I used to buy clothes and shoes. With a non-profit employee's salary, what to do? Basically, I haven't bought anything new for my wardrobe in quite a while, and I'm starting to feel a little frumpy. Okay, I know I don't *need* anything, and Mother Teresa only had two pairs of shoes, but Mother Teresa I am not. So, yesterday I decided that it must be possible to be stylish, socially, and fiscally responsible simultaneously.

The options seem to be fair trade and vintage (or just plain Goodwill). My first purchase was this dress from Fair Indigo. A classic, work appropriate, fair trade, and on sale! Take that, Target!

www.fairindigo.com, $24

Some Prefer Treacle

2008-05-08T20:01:00.000-05:00

It's too late to get an off-beat card for Mother's Day. You'll have to settle for something from Hallmark, or the grocery store (you slacker!). But you can always get this one for Dad...www.uncookedlandthestore.com, $2.50.

National Treasury

2008-05-08T20:00:00.000-05:00

This isn't really me, exactly, but I think it's cool. A little too modern for my taste. The blossom print in the frame is actually a piece of Japanese money. In looking at all the necklace options (and there are quite a few) I had to lament the fact that our own money is so incredibly boring. Very Puritan of us, I think. www.blendcreations.com, $83

You Can Pick Your Friends and Now...

2008-03-17T14:13:00.000-05:00

You can pick your nose.

I'm not sure what the perfect occasion would be for nose cups, but there must be one.

www.perpetualkid.com
$7.49

Sack It to Me

2008-03-16T10:03:00.000-05:00

This year instead of just trying to break your bad habits, what about picking up some new good habits? Here's one to pick up - literally. Worldwide, we use over one million plastic bags per minute. You didn't read that wrong. One million per minute. The average American family takes home 1500 plastic bags per year. Sea turtles aside, wouldn't you like to keep them from piling up in that closet? Here's a simple, stylish, and inexpensive solution. Buy a pack of five for $37.95 and keep them in your glove box so you'll always have a few on hand.

usa.envirosax.com, $8.50

Pineapple Teapots And So Forth

2008-03-15T14:11:00.000-05:00

It seems inevitable with the current trend towards all things naturalistic in home decor that majolica will experience a revival. Much of it straddles that fine line between fascinatingly ornate and over-the-top tacky, but some things are just beautiful, like these tiles (which can be found on Ebay), and the work of contemporary artist Christine Viennet. Equally as fascinating and over-the-top is the story of the man who invented majolica, Bernard Palissy. Check out an abbreviated version at Wikipedia.

Kawaii, Desu Ne?

2008-03-15T12:46:00.000-05:00

This is the best of Japanese cuteness. In addition to inventing miso soup, they have the happiest cartoon characters and the most creative use of English. All yours for the price of a handkerchief.

Sakura's Happy Box (Ebay store)
From $2.00

Madmartigan and Again

2008-03-14T14:43:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or is Val Kilmer due for a comeback? I mean, I haven't actually seen him in anything for about 500 years, nor is there any particular reason I should be anticipating his comeback...let's just say it's my intuition.

The First (Paper)cut is the Deepest

2008-01-26T18:05:00.000-05:00

Singing: I know someone who's going to want this!

www.alittlehut.com, $30

Friends, Romans, Countrymen, Marilyn-d Me Your Ears

2008-01-26T18:00:00.000-05:00

If you're going to get on board the red lipstick trend, you need a few things, the first being the right red. Here's one that would flatter a lot of people; I won't say everyone because anyone who says one color will flatter everyone is just a big, fat liar and probably trying to sell said color. And I should know. Ahem. So...try Smashbox Lavish -- described on the website as a "cherry red," it's bright and more orange than blue, which is more flattering on most people. Better for making your teeth look white, not as harsh against your skin tone. Pair it with a strong brown/gold eye for the au courant look stolen straight out of the nineties, or if you're not ready for that, a tiny bit of black liner. The other things you'll need for wearing red lipstick are time -- slap it on and you'll look like a clown -- and confidence, because baby, you will get noticed.

www.sephora.com, $22

Water(bottles), Water(bottles) Everywhere

2008-01-26T13:11:00.001-05:00

The debate about the dangers of plastic water bottles continues. Whether you believe them or not, it's obviously better for the environment to reuse the same bottle than to empty several a day. Plus, this one's really pretty, and not made by exploited workers in developing countries. (It's made by exploited workers in Switzerland). If you're not up for a flamboyant, purple water bottle, check out the more unobtrusive stainless bottles also available on the site.

www.isabellacatalog.com, $24.95

Rotten Denmark!

2008-01-15T18:15:00.000-05:00

Darn those smarmy Europeans for keeping all the good stuff for themselves! First, the Euro beats the U.S. dollar, and now this -- a gorgeous porcelain ring unavailable to those of us outside of Denmark! If only the prodigious use of exclamation points could guarantee finding one on Ebay!
I mean...!!!

www.casalinga.dk

I'll Take Them (Out)

2008-01-15T14:02:00.000-05:00

I can't say much about these earrings that they don't say for themselves.

www.etsy.com
$4

A Fine Line

2007-12-29T14:44:00.000-05:00

Always on the lookout for new things for the store, I came across Far Fetched, a fair trade jewelry company based in California. Their jewelry is mostly sterling silver, made in Taxco, Mexico (famous for its silver). Some of it ventures dangerously close to cutesy -- not to be confused with "cute" -- but there is one cuff bracelet coveted by all of our staff, and I'm not sure I can live without it much longer. It's a simple silver cuff (similar to those pictured at left) and the inscription reads: "Cleverly disguised as a responsible adult." I don't think you can buy it online, but if you want one, Ten Thousand Villages will be happy to ship!

To Noir Me is to Love Me

2007-12-29T14:25:00.000-05:00

Collecting books has never been my thing -- as much as I love to read, I'm perfectly content to use the public library or borrow from an obliging friend. Then, I discovered the Hard Case Crime Series. Garish, retro covers and a heart of dark, noir goodness. Perhaps it might reveal too much about my character to have a bookshelf full of these, but I don't care...I want them all.

www.hardcasecrime.com

I Believe in Miracles

2007-12-29T14:01:00.000-05:00

There are the practical aspects of staying warm, and then there are things like hot chocolate. Hot chocolate accomplishes a few things, not the least of which is warming you without the use of microfleece. And I suppose it tastes pretty good, too.

My favorite hot cocoa also happens to be unavailable at your local grocery store and is not the most convenient to make. Why are we not surprised? But (she pleaded plaintively) it's really, really good! And it's not as expensive as all those haute chocolates.

www.mexgrocer.com, $4.95

It's Electric

2007-12-29T13:42:00.001-05:00

As soon as the temperature drops below, oh, let's say seventy degrees, I make it my mission to avoid the cold. And by "cold" I mean anything below seventy degrees. That's why my favorite Christmas present had to be the electric blanket my parents gave me. I just use it to preheat my bed before going to sleep, and it's so warm that I've been able to keep my home thermostat five degrees cooler than usual, which appeals to the environmentalist in me. You might even say it gives me the warm fuzzies.

I mean, you could say that -- if you were kind of a dork.

cozywinters.com, $89

Feeling Somewhat Scrabby?

2007-09-07T10:23:00.000-05:00

I've resumed my love/hate relationship with Scrabble, but now I'm doing it online, which means I can drag it out for weeks or even months instead of a few excruciating hours. Who invented this game?!! (Alfred Butts, during the Depression.) More importantly, why is that d#@$ "3X word" tile always one letter out of reach???

Sigh.

If you're an English major, a masochist, or any twisted combination thereof, you should check out www.scrabulous.com. But don't say I didn't warn you.

Fly Me to the Moon (or Atlanta)

2007-09-07T10:12:00.000-05:00

The Flying Biscuit has long been one of my favorite restaurants. The fact that it's 331.14 miles away isn't going to stop me. Whenever I'm in Atlanta, I have to eat there at least once. Okay, usually more than once. And when I say "eat," I mean "order multiple menu items and stuff myself." But good news, kids! Word on the street is -- The Flying Biscuit is being franchised! Huzzah! This means that someday, if I'm lucky, I might have a sad imitation of my favorite restaurant in my very own neighborhood. I can't wait.

www.flyingbiscuit.com

Make Me Up Before You Go-Go

2007-09-07T09:30:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been liking a matte face, pale berry cheeks, lips without too much gloss, and either navy eyeliner/purple eyeshadow, or brown eyeliner/blue eyeshadow. Have I gone crazy, or is this what we'll soon be seeing on everyone? Only time will tell.

Oh, yeah -- I'm also thinking thinner eyebrows, but I'm a little scared of that one.

In A Word

2007-09-07T09:28:00.001-05:00

Sometimes these things are inexplicable, but I just had to say...Flamenco.

Just So Ya Know...

2007-07-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

Strawberries are the new cupcake.
www.superbuzzy.com
$11.95/yard

Domo Allegrato Mr. Gozaimasu

2007-07-27T22:53:00.000-05:00

Oh, my gosh, Becky! In looking for a camera case (it's been a long, drawn-out search and this is only day one) I found this case for pills. In Japan, there are all kinds of products with random English phrases, some of which make more sense than others. (Check out engrish.com for some funny examples). But this pill case! It makes me wish I were on anti-depressants, just so that I could keep them in this case. http://www.kawaiicorner.com/product_info.php?products_id=2555, $4.15

It's a Wrap

2007-07-27T22:43:00.000-05:00

My obsession with beautiful gift wrap is in equal proportion to my inability to wrap a gift. Hence, I am totally enamoured of the overpriced gift wrap available on this website. I spent a good half-hour fantasizing about the impressive gifts I would give family/friends/co-workers for birthdays/Christmas/just because I'm such a great person. Needless to say, none of you will be getting anything wrapped in this paper (or probably any other, since I usually have to resort to gift bags). But enter my world of gift wrap fantasy, and imagine that when I give you that thing you never knew you always wanted, it's wrapped in this paper.

www.flaxart.com, $12

Salad Days

2007-07-27T21:30:00.000-05:00

These salad servers are gorgeous, and they make me extremely happy about the return to a sort of Art Nouveau aesthetic that draws on nature for inspiration. Despite the fact that they do look somewhat nonfunctional.
ww w.californiafleurish.com

$68

Unrequited Love

2007-07-27T16:48:00.000-05:00

Wow, this is cool. And totally unavailable at the moment. (Is that part of what makes it cool? Perhaps.) www.bags2riches.co.uk Made of silver and recycled plastic bags.

Already Cynical About It

2007-07-09T18:50:00.000-05:00

I'm going on vacation next week, but mentally, I'm already there...basking in the sun in...Montana. Ahem. Yeah, I guess there won't be much basking. But it is a gorgeous place -- I could bask in the beauty of Nature, if not in the actual sun. Good thing I'll have that handy digital camera for all the pictures that won't remotely capture the beauty of what I actually saw!

Welcome to the Nineties

2007-07-09T18:41:00.000-05:00

So, I finally broke down and bought a digital camera. After much research (okay, reading a few online articles and asking two people) I decided on the Canon a550 Powershot, one of the few options within my budget. I don't have any basis of comparison, really, but I'm digging it so far. Spent the weekend geeked out, reading the manual, then proceeded to torture my family and dog by taking pictures of them constantly. And I'm not done!

I bought my camera at PrestigeCamera.com, which had the best price and a decent customer service rating. After my experience, I would say that the price was good, but I'm not so crazy about the way the transaction went. But if listening to a high pressure salesman from Bombay is necessary to save money...

Numbers Make the Best Blogs

2007-06-28T18:22:00.000-05:00

My absolute favorite blog site (this one excepted, of course) has to be 101cookbooks.com. I've tried a couple of recipes from the site, both of which were excellent, and I can't wait to get the cookbook. It's Super Natural Cooking by Heidi Swanson, available at amazon.com for $13.60. And if you don't cook, perhaps you should consider getting it for a friend. Maybe a friend who's birthday is in 116 days.

Now Hear This

2007-06-28T18:20:00.000-05:00

And speaking of ways to spend way too much time online... I can't resist the various "Overheard" websites. I keep trying to eavesdrop on interesting conversations so that I'll have something to add, but I haven't had any luck. If only I lived in New York, I would be sure to hear something worth posting. Oh, well. It's a small price to pay for not having to live in New York.

www.overheardeverywhere.com & www.overheardinnewyork.com

The Noun, Not the Verb

2007-06-19T16:51:00.001-05:00

So, glass floats. I don't know why, but suddenly I long for a set to display on my mantel. (Having a mantel is a terrible thing...the pressure to come up with just the right objects, art, etc. is practically unbearable. But maybe my life is just too easy). If you, too, find yourself longing for a glass float, eBay looks like the place to go. Good luck!

I Told You So

2007-06-09T10:16:00.000-05:00

Although I wear a moisturizer with sunscreen year-round, for Summer I switch to a higher SPF for everyday since I'm always riding around in my car with the windows down. Did you know that most sun damage occurs with incidental exposure? Over the years, those minutes add up, so if you're not wearing sunscreen on your neck, hands, and any other exposed skin, don't come cryin' to me when you're old and wrinkly. You could have avoided it by using this new product from Neutrogena -- you don't even have to get your hands in it, and it's not sticky at all! www.walgreens.com, $9.99.

Hang It All!

2007-06-02T15:20:00.000-05:00

Pendants are supposed to be big this season. Well, here's a big one, and it's supercool. From our favorite site, www.etsy.com, $30. It looks very Art Deco to me. Art Deco meets Mondrian meets recycling. Okay, I'm totally making that up, but it sounded good, didn't it?

Can You Tea Me Now?

2007-05-28T10:05:00.001-05:00

These fabulous creations are, er, created from vintage tea tins, which I will admit makes me like them even more. This would be one of those wish-I'd-thought-of-that ideas; I don't think I've ever seen anything exactly like them, but they're brilliant!

Once more with feeling -- BRILLIANT!

Now that I've gotten that out of my system... Check out the seller's Etsy store, BluePlateStudio. www.etsy.com, $47

Mimi Me!

2007-05-25T09:06:00.000-05:00

I knew as soon as I saw the picture on the home page of Mimi and Marge that I had a found a company after my own heart. And here to prove it, these fabulous sterling silver earrings! These are the "Soda" earrings. Also love the plum blossom pendant, and the big buckle handbag in Pewter. Happy shopping, and don't miss the testimonials! www.mimiandmarge.com (you can look but you can't buy)
To purchase, go to www.amazon.com, $73

A Black and White Issue

2007-05-25T09:00:00.000-05:00

There are some truly hideous things on the "Casual Living" site, but this sweet sundress is not one of them. I just can't get over black and white right now, and what's more perfect for summer than a light, airy, sexy-but-not-slutty sundress? And while you're there, just for laughs, check out the "slippers" designed for cleaning the floor. www.casuallivingusa.com, $59

Sweep Me Off My Feet

2007-05-23T17:46:00.000-05:00

Looks like the only prince in my life lately could be a dustpan. (Well, that, and the Prince Formerly Known As The Symbol Formerly Known As Prince, because I heart his music). But if your prince has to be a dustpan, how cute is this one? www.pylones-usa.com, $45

Lettuce Be Well-dressed

2007-05-23T16:45:00.000-05:00

Salad days are here again! Who really feels like cooking when it's hot? (Yes, I know some of you never feel like cooking -- I'm not naming any names here. You know who you are). In honor of my current favorite meal, let's talk dressing. Here are a few of my favorites.

Brianna's Real French Vinaigrette. This is my all-time favorite bottled salad dressing. It's a classic vinaigrette, not too sweet like a lot of balsamics can be. No added sugar, all natural, and generally...yum.

Annie's Naturals Organic Papaya Poppy Seed Dressing has won over many a visitor to my house. It's fruity and sweet, almost like a French dressing, but much, much better.

Girard's Light Champagne Dressing is a new one for me, but is quickly becoming a favorite. In addition to being half the calories of the other dressings in my fridge, it's delicious, with a light, mustardy tang. (Because calories be d*$#ed, if something tastes bad, I'm not going to put it on my salad!)

Even Amish Girls Can Look Glamorous

2007-05-23T16:40:00.001-05:00

Sigh. If only I could sew, I would make myself some super-cute aprons. But since I don't, I'll have to be satisfied with admiring the ones available for sale. Here's a great one that even has matching gloves -- a must for those of us without automatic dishwashers.

www.carolynskitchenonline.com, apron $38, gloves $18

Jersey Wrapsody

2007-05-23T09:11:00.000-05:00

Wrap jersey dresses are everywhere right now (almost as ubiquitous as tar), and what's not to love about that? If they're cut right, they're extremely flattering, and they DON'T WRINKLE. Ever. I mean, I dare you to try to get jersey to wrinkle. You can forget it in the bottom of a laundry hamper for three years, pull it out, and it won't be wrinkled. Not that I've done that. Ahem. I'm just speaking theoretically. So...despite all the wanna-bes (translation: dresses I can actually afford), I have to pay homage to the original -- Diane von Furstenberg. (And as a side note, when I was in seventh grade, I thought her "Tatiana" perfume was awesome).

www.nordstrom.com, $298

Tar

2007-05-23T09:09:00.001-05:00

I really feel that the next big thing is tar. (Pause for effect). Just kidding. But it does seem like the entire city is repaving everything. It's like the smell of spring is in the air. Only...stinky.

Ours is a Complicated Relationship

2007-05-19T10:50:00.000-05:00

I've been seeing wallpaper lately. I mean, I'm not commited enough to actually have it in my house. Not on the walls. But I like it. Sometimes I think about it on lonely nights. And I'd like to have it to dinner. www.bunnymaxwell, set of four $42

Give in to the Marketing

2007-05-19T10:44:00.000-05:00

Normally, I eschew the whole concept of the card -- isn't it just a marketing scheme? I make exceptions for very funny cards (See Bald Guy Greetings) or for incredibly beautiful ones like these from Artecnica. The one pictured is blank, but they have an entire line of these, most of which have messages printed in the middle; they say very original things like "Happy Birthday" and "Thank You." While you're looking at these, don't miss the Fairy Tale Greeting Cards by Tord Boontje. He's such a genius! www.unicahome.com, $6

Sophea's Choice

2007-05-19T10:28:00.001-05:00

The only real answer to "Paper or plastic?" is "I brought my own." C'mon! Just stash a couple of bags in your car so that you have something on hand when you stop at the store. They don't have to be as pretty as this one, but wouldn't you be the envy of all your fellow shoppers as you left the store with this slung over your shoulder? And you can be extra smug because this bag is fair trade, and helps widows and abandoned children in Cambodia! www.globalsistergoods.com, $37

Not for the Faint of Heart

2007-05-12T08:49:00.000-05:00

I haven't worn this color since I was in the fifth grade, and then it was in the form of puffy paint and jelly bracelets. (I can't believe I just admitted that!) But the other day, I gave into the siren call of...fluorescent pink. Yes, you read that right. My toenails are currently glowing with the color of my new favorite nail polish, which would be...(cue ominous music) fluorescent pink!!!

Get it at your local Sally Beauty Supply -- Orly Passion Fruit Nail Polish, $5.

Baldly Go Where No Man Has Gone

2007-05-08T21:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, I wouldn't *actually* give this card to my mom for Mother's Day, but in the spirit of the holiday, you must check out these cards by Bald Guy Greetings. The anti-Hallmark, they are hilarious, and many of them wouldn't offend the recipient so badly that they would never speak to you again. My favorites are the wedding cards and the "You're welcome" card. www.baldguygreetings.com, $3

Confessions

2007-05-08T20:00:00.000-05:00

Since getting involved in fair trade, I've felt somewhat guilty about my occasional forays to World Market, but in searching their website, I was happy to discover that although they are not fair trade, they're not completely devoid of a social conscience. They are carrying a collection by Novica, National Geographic's fair trade, artisan-made products, and all of their outdoor furniture is made with environmentally-friendly acacia wood.

And that's my justification for showing you these super-cute containers. That, and the fact that they are super-cute, and match my Fiestaware. www.worldmarket.com, $17.94. Oh, and despite the fact that little glass jars are a popular way to store spices, having them in an opaque container actually keeps them from deteriorating as fast. (Note: for those of you who are paying attention, this is another justification for why I should immediately discard all of my glass spice jars and buy these new ones.)

Pure Genius

2007-05-08T10:34:00.000-05:00

This ingenious new product goes on your feet (it's in a stick like deodorant) and prevents blisters from forming. I wish I had some of this stuff right now. Seriously, why didn't someone come up with this sooner? www.drugstore.com, $6.99

Trump Cardamom

2007-05-08T08:48:00.000-05:00

I've recently discovered the joys of freshly ground cardamom. In fact, all I've really done with it is use it to flavor a banana smoothie. Well, that, and smell it obsessively after grinding it in my mortar and pestle. And I might have rubbed a little on my fingers in some sort of perfume replacement experiment. But all that aside...ahem...it's good stuff! Perfect with bananas, and I'm already envisioning all the baked goods that would benefit from the addition. I think the key is to grind it when you need it. All of my favorite cookbooks recommend freshly ground spices, but until now, I ignored them. Turns out they knew what they were talking about. Who knew?

I've been shopping around for the best (read: cheapest without being sketchy) place to buy spices, and right now, World Market is a clear winner, but they don't sell them online, so if there's not a store in your area, good luck.

Book 'Em

2007-05-07T18:18:00.000-05:00

These are blank journals made from old hardback books, which seems like a pretty clever thing, if you ask me. You've got books, you've got recycling, and you've got cuteness. The selection changes all the time -- I'm hoping to find an old Nancy Drew one of these days. The Hardy Boys are for suckers. www.bookjournals.com, $13.

Top That!

2007-05-07T18:15:00.000-05:00

This month, Dining for Women will be giving to a sewing co-op in Nicaragua (the second poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere). The women who work there built their factory with their own hands (I would have no idea how to start building a factory myself -- would you? I picture these women standing around with a big pile of cinder blocks just going, "okay, um... let's put some here."). It took them over two years of working 20 hours a week (each) while trying to support their families with other work. Now they are such a success that they are looking to expand, providing jobs for more women.

That's the story behind the women who make this great wrap top with 3/4 sleeves. I think it's wonderful on its own - flattering, reasonably priced, and nice, wearable colors -- and I love knowing that not only was it *not* made in a sweatshop, but that it actually provides income and dignity to these women who certainly deserve it!

And now that I've done sermonizing for the day, check out the top, available at www.organicclothes.com, on sale this month for $30.60

Oil Producing States

2007-04-30T19:15:00.000-05:00

Summertime, and the livin' is greasy. (Imagine that being sung. Badly.) Ahem. Now that we've gotten that out of the way... There's no need to be all shiny just because it's hot outside, and if you've been putting powder (shudders) over the oil -- STOP!!! The next time you're at the drugstore, pick up some of these amazing oil-absorbing sheets. Sure, you could find a similar product with better packaging, and yes, this brand is basically marketed to twelve-year olds, but why should they have all the fun? These things work, people. Would I lie to you about a cosmetic product? www.walgreens.com, $4.99

Appealing Stuff

2007-04-30T19:00:00.000-05:00

Someone recently asked me about a good exfoliator, and this is my answer. If your skin is too sensitive for alpha-hydroxy products, this is not for you, but everyone else is in luck because this stuff really works! Use it once or twice a week on a regular basis, and you will actually see smoother, less flaky skin and a general improvement in texture. And, no, I'm not on the L'oreal payroll. One more thing: don't confuse this with their similarly packaged micro-dermabrasion kit(ReFinish); that one exfoliates with aluminum oxide crystals while this one (ReNoviste) uses glycolic acid. Let me know what you think! www.drugstore.com, $23

Get Carded

2007-04-27T10:18:00.000-05:00

I never got into the card making that was all the rage because -- well, frankly, it looked like too much work. But it is practically impossible to find great stationery, and when I saw this gorgeous card and read that it was made with (brilliant!!) rub-ons, I thought, "that much work even I could do!" And promptly started looking for cool rub-ons. I found this website -- amillionlittlethings.com , short on style, but full of rub-on cuteness. My favorites are from American Crafts, $5.59.

Window to the World

2007-04-26T16:07:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you just don't want to deal with window treatments. This would be perfect for a window that you want covered but translucent. Yeah, I'm thinking of putting them on the window in my shower. I think the neighbors would like that a lot. www.jane2.com, $76

Lemon Tree, Very Pretty

2007-04-23T18:15:00.004-05:00

I've finally given in to an obsession with lemons. I was trying to resist -- really, I was. And for a few brief moments, it looked like the pineapple would triumph as Fruit of the Moment. But here we are, looking at cute lemon topiaries and buying lotions smelling of lemon and making lemon bars and lemon-cilantro hummus, so lemon it is.

www.acornsprings.com, $42.50

Throw Some Peanuts on the Floor

2007-04-23T18:15:00.003-05:00

Made from recycled plastic bottles and packing materials (what does that mean? I hope it's those awful peanuts that fly all over the place when you open a box), this rug is cute, easy to clean, and I'm pretty sure it would look great in my kitchen. I know you were hoping to hear that. However, if it wouldn't match your kitchen, there are two other patterns. See how I'm always thinking of others?

www.vivaterra.com, $29

Post Haste

2007-04-23T18:15:00.002-05:00

More creative recycling -- I love this trend! And don't tell me you wouldn't feel like the coolest kid on the block when whipping out this wallet to pay for a Dr. Pepper.

www.firebox.com, $19.95 paper wallet

Oh, My Gosh, Becky!

2007-04-23T18:15:00.001-05:00

I don't know that I can add anything to this shirt, because, let's face it - it's perfect. Gnomes and puns. That's all it takes, I think.

www.davidandgoliathtees.com, $18

Think Tankard

2007-04-23T18:15:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of Earth Day, a recycled goblet for your spirits. This is the kind of thing I always see and think, "I could make that!" And then I collect bottles or cans or whatever random item/tool is involved and let it sit around for months (okay, sometimes years) until I eventually realize that I'm never going to make the goblet/candleholder/sweater and throw it all out. So, I guess what I'm saying is -- save yourself the trouble and buy these now.

www.firebox.com, $24.95/2 recycled beer bottle goblets

But, Really, Who's Counting?

2007-04-05T18:31:00.000-05:00

I was playing with Play Doh the other day and remembered (a) how much I like the smell of Play-Doh and (b) that Demeter recently came out with a Play-Doh fragrance. I'll admit I haven't smelled it, but Demeter has successfully bottled the smell of -- among many other things, dirt, lettuce, and gin and tonic -- so you can bet the stuff smells like the real thing. (Dirt has long been a personal favorite, btw.) If you're feeling nostalgic, adventurous, bored with all those pretty smelling girl-fragrances, maybe this is just the thing for you. Or a friend. A friend whose birthday is in six months and eighteen days. www.demeterfragrance.com, $19

Someday My (Blue)prints Will Come

2007-04-05T18:30:00.001-05:00

Since I've joined the ranks of the American Homeowners, my desire for new shoes has transformed into a desire for all things house related. I find myself bored with the fashion magazines, and looking forward to the next issue of Blueprint, which is now going to be available bimonthly. It's got great ideas for DIY stuff, things you can buy for your home, beauty products, and...er, shoes. www.marthastewart.com, $18

This Little Pig

2007-04-05T18:30:00.000-05:00

Cooking is so much easier when your kitchen is designed so that things are within easy reach. This (and a lack of kitchen storage) is why I am still obsessed with having all of my pots and pans hanging up instead of in a cupboard. And this is why the salt pig idea is so smart. Keep it right on your stove and just reach in for a pinch when you need it; exposing it to the air also reduces clumping.

Okay, all that may be true. But I really just got it because it's cute.

www.shop.com, $7.95

We Came, We Jigsaw, We Conquered

2007-04-05T18:26:00.000-05:00

From the people who brought you paper dolls, we bring you...puzzles. Yes, I said puzzles. They're surprisingly fun when a group activity. Bored with board games? Break out the puzzles! All the cool kids are doing it. store.cherrygames.com, $12.99.