Brag Books

We mothers sure do love to brag about our kids, giving us all the more reason to keep their pictures handy in something that's stylish as well as functional. The Brag Book from Hable Construction is a great organizer for pictures and fits neatly into your purse, briefcase or desk for easy access.

Wrapped in Hable Construction's Signature Bead print, this book looks as great on the outside as it does on the inside. The inside and back covers are lined in a soft velour. Like all Hable Construction products, the quality is impeccable. There are 10 black pages with clear plastic sleeves to display at least 20 pictures or mementos. The stylish leather string and button closure is the perfect finishing touch.

The Brag Book comes in 3 different colors; Rose, Sweet Pea and Espresso.

Measures 4 ¾” x 6 ½” and is sized to hold 4” x 6” photographs.

What to Wear, Wearever You Go

What a great idea! J. Jill has just introduced their Wearever Collection, eight styles of clothing to mix and match that move, breathe and wear effortlessly through your day and into your night. They're perfect for travel, but wouldn't they also be perfect for busy lives at home? Of course! And because these pieces are virtually wrinkle-free, they're great for when you need to look good quick, and haven't had time to do laundry.

Made up of such versatile styles as gaucho pants, dolman-sleeved tops and wrap cardigans, you can create hundreds of combinations with the Wearever Collection. This is a great way to transition into fall, looking great and feeling comfortable. So choose the styles that are right for you and start mixing it up. You'll be getting dressed with ease in no time flat!

That's NonScents!

Are you chemically sensitive? Are you bothered when someone around you is wearing a heavily scented lotion or perfume? Then you might want to try these great unscented bath and beauty products from That's NonScents for yourself.

That's NonScents was created by Natasha Johnson in 2004 when she became chemically sensitive. She found out first-hand how difficult it was to find high-quality, fragrance-free products, so she began researching natural butters and oils, and developed her line of beauty products that includes shea butter, lip balm and soap. Her products are all natural and will nourish your skin while keeping your sensitivies at bay.

Ease Into Fall

With fall on it's way it, it's time to start thinking about transitioning our wardrobe from the easy styles of summer into the more layered and covered looks of fall. When the temperatures start dipping (later this week it looks like some of us will be getting a cold front - I can't wait!) you'll want to pull out those items that make you feel good, no matter what you put them with. There's something about first wearing those new pieces of fall clothing (you know, the ones you really like and can't wait to wear) that is very comforting, like wrapping yourself in a cocoon of fabric that just feels right. You don't want to take them off.

Here's one item that fits that bill. It's a bit floaty, so it won't be too overwhelming when it's still a bit warm outside. And it's versatile, looking great paired with jeans (and boots, for a sexy look) or just a simple skirt and skimmers for dashing around to appointments. The Ruched Peasant Top from Da-Nang is a great transitional item, taking you from carpool to the office to a meeting without missing a beat. Crafted from double-layered translucent vintage fabrics that were originally intended for scarves, this top has a beautiful, diaphanous look. Fall wardrobe, here we come!

Get Started on Saving Your Summer Pictures

Did your summer just seem to fly by like mine did? Seems like just yesterday the kids were getting out of school. Now it's time for them to go back. I hope you had time to have some fun and capture some memories along the way. Maybe even take a nice vacation - at least to the beach or the lakehouse.

Here's an offer from Shutterfly - Get 15 FREE 
prints to get started. Plus, enjoy free photo share and unlimited 
photo storage! that will help you get started on your scrapbook or photo albums. While you're at it, go ahead and have some holiday gifts made with those photos. You can have your images put on just about anything these days from mousepads to coffee mugs, even have a personalized calendar made. What better way to share your favorite images of the kids with the rest of the family?

Happy Birthday Dear Husband!

Today my dear husband turns the big 4-0! Wow, there's no way we can be this close to our 40's. But wait, 40 is the new 20, right? So we must just be getting started. We have lots more to look forward to - starting with birthday cake all weekend long! We love you!

Mary Michele Children's Fall Line Out Now

Soft. Luxurious. Washable? Yes, washable. These three words perfectly describe the new fall line of children's apparel from Mary Michele Apparel & Design.

Mary Michele Apparel & Design is a wonderful line of handcrafted children's apparel and accessories made using cottage industry practices. The fabrics are appealing; so much so that moms often ask if there's anything available in their size (see our aprons). When designing, Michele uses her great sense of color and texture to conjure up clothing that's not too "kiddie", but not too old. It's just right. And the kids seem to love it. "We often hear from moms that the skirt or dress they just bought from me is their daughter's favorite thing to wear, and that she's worn in 3 days in a row, or wants to wear it to bed", says designer Michele Little. We'll let that speak for itself. In the meantime, take a look for yourself.

A Bra that Works for You!

Want a bra that does more than just give you support? How about a bra that stimulates circulation in the lymphatic area? The Brassage Bra from Gaiam is doctor-designed and includes imperceptible massaging “bumps” (about the size of a quarter) in the side panels to gently massage your lymph nodes. This important area processes 80% of the body’s lymphatic drainage of toxins and impurities from the breast tissue and keeping it stimulated will help eliminate these toxins and encourage breast health.

The Brassage Bra is made from breathable Swiss organic cotton (with a little spandex for stretch) to help keep you cool and comfortable. Available in ivory and black, with a front or back closure.

Head Gear

The most functional accessory making an appearance this fall is the headband. It's interesting that such a classic item is finding its way into high fashion as well as onto the streets as one of the hottest accessories this season. When you want to add a little sparkle to your look, create more drama or look more sporty, try a headband. It's an easy way to boost your style.

Headbands are now available in a great range of styles, fabrics and sizes. For a dressy evening look, try a pretty headband in satin or vintage metallic ribbon. Take a peek at the styles available from Jennifer Behr.

For a fun daytime look, a stretchy elastic band from Goody's new Colour Collection is available at most drug stores and will keep hair in place during your workout or while driving carpool. These come in a great range of colors to match your hair and avoid standing out, and are perfect for those days when you don't want your headband to be the center of attention.

Headbands are great for giving your hair an instant new look. When your hairstyle needs a lift, try a headband. Different styles fit different ways, so play around with several to find the look that's right for you. Headbands are great for long or short hair that's both straight and curly, making them a very versatile accessory. And they're great for any age-group. The modern way to wear your headband is closer to the hairline. Resist the tendency to push it back like you did when you were in grade-school.

So the next time you are bored with your hairstyle or need a great bad hair day fix, remember that headbands can be your best friend.

Urban Color

Wishing for some great new fall makeup colors? Here's just what you wished for...shades from pink to plum, coral to copper, blue to green and everything in between from Urban Apothecary.

Flawless finishes from velvety matte to shimmery pearl, chiffon-sheer to fabulously full. And the clingy, crease-free formula sweeps on in a stroke, smoothes with a touch, won't fizzle, flake or fade away.
Applied wet or dry, these shadows never crease and always look fabulous. Sold in pans to create your own custom kit. Palettes are sold separately and hold either 3 or 5 shadows. These are a great way to keep track of your eye shadows and to group them by coordinating colors. Enjoy!

Good to the Last Drop

What is it about being a mother that makes a good cup of coffee such a pleasure? Is it because it's so rare to have a quiet moment alone to savor a good cup - and I mean a really good cup - of coffee? I have coffee every day, and I have to say, I love the ritual. I love making it, then sitting down with my big Fiesta mug full of hot, steaming brew, and just taking it all in. I love everything that goes with coffee, too, which means most baked goods. Just taking time out to indulge myself for a few brief minutes can really refresh me.

So when you have a few minutes before the kids arise and want to enjoy some quiet time with a good cuppa joe, try the Aerobie Aero-Press Coffee and Espresso Maker. It makes deliciously smooth coffee using an ideal water temperature and fast brewing yields rich flavor with lower acidity and no bitterness. Total immersion produces uniform extraction for the ultimate in full coffee flavor. And one minute from start to enjoy means (almost) no waiting. Mmmm...

A coffee making breakthrough. Richest - Smoothest - Purest Made in the U.S.A. And at $26, the price won't break the bank!

Keep That Summer Sun-Kissed Glow

As summer begins to fade into fall, don't let your summer glow fade too. Keep that glow a little longer with the help of a good bronzer. It'll help those fond summer memories last a little longer, and it's a lot healthier for your skin without exposing it to the harmful rays of the sun.

The key to natural-looking bronzer is in the application, as much as the color of the bronzer. No matter which bronzer you select, it should be applied on your face where the sun would naturally "kiss" your skin. For example, along the bridge of your nose and on the apples of your cheeks and/or the top of your cheekbones. Powder bronzers are easily applied, but can get too dark too easily.
One of the most natural bronzers around, is Smashbox's Develop Compact Bronzer. It is a cream-to-powder formula, and it offers a smooth, matte finish. As an added bonus, the Smashbox bronzer contains an SPF of 20, to keep the harmful rays at bay! As with any makeup application, practice makes perfect. You'll find what you like and what works for you.

A few more good bronzers to try are:
This Bronzing Duo from Clarins provides a golden ‘sun-kissed’ effect to enhance and prolong a natural tan and is both convenient and portable for quick, easy touch-ups. The sheer powder offers soothing and skin-smoothing properties as well.

Bobbi Brown's Shimmer Brick is a favorite of mine, and a natural choice for a bronzer. Her palettes are so pretty and you can use each color individually to highlight eyes, or sweep a large brush over the entire range of colors to get a soft, rosy glow.

This limited edition Blush/Bronzer Duo from Nars is available only through Sephora and contains the incomparable combination of Nars' blush in a subtle peachy-pink shimmer and bronzer in a sheer light brown shimmer. These shades have been touted for their universally flattering and natural-looking hues. This compatible pairing creates summer's quintessential glow both with ease and convenience - anytime of year.

This Brow's For You

Trends in eyebrow shapes come and go with the seasons. One thing to remember, however, as you peruse all the latest fashion mags in search of the latest look, is to forget about eyebrow trends and go with what works for you. Eyebrows should compliment the shape of your face and eyes. Not only do well-defined brows make you look fresher and younger, they make you look groomed and enhance your eyes, whatever their shape or color.

Here are a few tips for achieving your perfect brow shape. First, brush the brows upward using a disposable mascara wand, then trim any stray hairs. The brows should start wthere the inner corner of your eye starts. To check where your brows should begin and end, there's an old trick requiring a pencil. Hold the pencil alongside your nose as you look directly into a mirror. Your brow should start in line with the pencil's edge. Then hold the pencil at an angle, diagonally from the base of your nose out past the outer corner of your eye. Your brow should end on this line. If the brow is much longer it can give a droopy effect to the eyes. Creating the arch of the brow can be a little trickier. This is where the help of a good licensed esthetician can be very beneficial in finding what's right for you. A little waxing, a little tweezing and she can create beautiful brows for you in no time.

Once you have the shape down, you can fill in sparse areas using a sharp brow pencil or powder shadow on a brow brush. Match the pencil or powder to your hair color for the most natural effect. Bobbi Brown makes a great Natural Brow Shaper Gel with an easy to use mascara wand to define and fill-in brows. It comes in seven close-to-nature shades.

It's De-Lovely

I've just found the most wonderful handbags for fall, and I can't stop drooling. These amazing, richly embroidered handbags from Unsung Designers are a hot ticket item right now, and the perfect accessory for fall. Made by Oovoo, these handbags are all fully lined with a zippered inside pocket, a cell phone pocket with reinforced leather, a notepad pocket and zippered top for maximum functionality. Yet these don't look like "mommy" bags. Oovoo's great design is a blend of Asian and Western influences that translate into handcrafted works of art.


Each handbag from Oovoo is hand-embroidered and carefully crafted by more than 600 women in Vietnam, which helps to support their community through creation of jobs. The exquisite embroidery is just heavenly and adds the perfect touch to transform the bags into something special.

Handcrafted, functional and beautiful - that's a combination that works well for me! Isn't it time you indulged yourself and got a bag that's just for you?

Underneath It All

Are you a fuller-figured gal who has a hard time finding lingerie that really fits? Then this is just for you! Lane Bryant, longtime retailer of plus size women's clothing, has begun rolling out Cacique, a stand alone chain of lingerie stores. The focus of Cacique will also be full figured women. As we all know, finding lingerie that fits can be a real battle at times. Cacique is going to great lengths to make sure their lingerie will fit real women, which is wonderful news for moms who are tired of being poked by wires, pinched by elastic or feel they're left spilling out of their bra. This can make a mom downright cranky! With sizes ranging from 36C - 48DDD, F, G & H and intimates from sizes 12 - 28, this line has a wide range of sizes and styles. And they're pretty too! So keep an eye out in your area for a Cacique to open near you, or just click on the link to order online.

Kiss Your Clutter Goodbye

I do believe that one of the biggest challenges of being a mom is managing clutter and keeping things in their place. Not only do we have less time to spend cleaning up and putting things away, but the amount of "stuff" just seems to multiply once kids become part of your life. Wouldn't it be great if there really were little fairies who would come along each night as we slept peacefully and put away all the stuff that we so easily accumulate? I can only wish this would happen.

Fortunately, there is a new book out by Mervyn Kaufman called Organize It! that shows us how to declutter every nook and cranny in and outside our homes. This book is a great resource for bringing order and inspiration to your living space, and to help you get a handle on battling clutter day to day.

"Never give in to living with clutter," writes Mervyn Kaufman. "We never feel we have enough space and struggle endlessly to master the little we do have. Organizing is the answer." This book is packed with advice and examples that will help you develop efficient ways to arrange what you have—in every room in your home—and clear away what you no longer need. It discusses the fact that getting organized is only one part of the puzzle; staying organized is just as important.

Clutter and disorganization can make even the nicest home hard to live in. For those who find it difficult to declutter, Kaufman comes to the rescue with this invaluable guide. Containing a wealth of organizing ideas, key advice from expert professionals, before and after projects, and simple how-tos, Organize It! is a practical guide to conquering clutter and creating an orderly, uncluttered home.

Now That's One Chic Mama!

W Magazine has an intriguing spread in the September issue called "Cover Girls", shot by Juergen Teller. The spread depicts 12 top supermodels looking sultry, sexy and beautiful! Oh, and they all just happen to be mothers. These iconic beauties include the likes of Christie Brinkley, Paulina, Cheryl Tiegs, Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, among others. Yes, they were all supermodels to start with, but it's great to see these women proving that even though you're a mom, you can still be beautiful, sexy and confident. That goes for all of us mamas, not just the supermodels. Because inside every mother there really is one chic mama!

Nail Time

What a great deal! These Nail Polish Remover Pads from e.l.f. come in a cute little disc-shaped package. There are 18 pads per package (for only $1), making them the perfect thing to toss in your travel bag, make-up bag or purse. Heck, at this price, keep some in your car (you never know).


And while shopping e.l.f. products, check out their Color Protection Nail Laquer with color-lock technology that prevents nail yellowing. Their new formula is chip resistant and has a lovely shine. Plus, it comes in such great colors as Amanda's Red Hot and Marie's Hot Rod - you'll want one of each!

Denim Anyone?

Denim is such a great fabric. It works well in all climates, launders beautifully and can go from dressed up to pared down for maximum versatility. The best thing about it is there's something for everyone in denim, no matter what your age. Sure, finding a great fitting pair of jeans can be a daunting challenge, but they're out there. You just have to know where to look.

J. Jill makes a great pair of jeans that are cut for a woman's figure. They have a couple of basic fit styles to choose from. Once you select your choice you choose your wash preference (ranging from the faded denim wash, to darker blue to black). Some have stretch, others do not. Stretch can be a good thing when you're active, or are in the process of getting back to your pre-baby weight. And it can give the illusion of jeans that fit a little tighter than they actually feel (no sucking it in necessary). So choose your pair, and enjoy 25% off until August 21st. Because nothing feels quite as good as a pair of jeans that really fit.

Healthy Habits to Keep You at Your Best

Yes, mom, even you need to be reminded to floss every once in a while. We're so busy keeping everyone else on track that we sometimes slip up ourselves. Here are a few things we can do each day to help encourage healthy living.

1/ Wear sunscreen - I can't stress this one enough. Sure, during the summer it is of vital importance to help prevent against sunburn, which in turn increases our risk of skin cancer as well as premature aging. But remember that you also need to use it on cloudy days as we go into fall as well. SPF of 15 or higher is recommended for your face, hands, arms and wherever else your skin is exposed to the sun's rays.

2/ Keep Immunization Records Current - You do it for your children; do you even think about it for yourself or your husband? Help protect your family by staying current on chicken-pox, flu and other vaccinations. You don't want any surprises!

3/ Floss Your Teeth - Yes, we know it's not your favorite thing to do. But it does help to prevent gum disease and keeps decay-causing plaque at bay. Preventing gum disease can also prevent pre-term delivery in pregnant women.

4/ Perform Breast Self-Exams - These are so important for early detection of cancer. Put a reminder up in the shower or on your bathroom mirror to remind you to make this painless exam part of your routine.

5/ Add Strength Training to Your Workouts - It boosts your metabolism and helps fight against bone loss as you age. It also makes everyday activities, such as lifting your kids, a little easier and can help to prevent injury.

6/ Eat Your Veggies - You know they're good for you, but did you know that eating 5 - 9 servings of fruit and vegetables is now the recommended daily allowance of the American Cancer Society? Fruits and veggies are full of antioxidants, low in fat and calories and high in fiber. Plus, when you eat them at the peak of freshness, they are hard to beat!

Tax Free Shopping Weekend

If you live in North Carolina, like I do, or any of the other states participating in the tax-free shopping weekend, there are some great bargains to be had. On top of no sales tax, many stores are offering deep discounts to lure shoppers. The big department stores are offering early bird specials and are opening extra early. So if it's back-to-school clothing, shoes , supplies or new computers you're looking for, this is the weekend to do it. But be careful if shopping on the internet. If the business is not located in one of the participating states you just might end up paying tax anyway.

Asian Inspiration

Wow, I just fell in love with these pretty chokers. They're so bright and cheerful and just plain fun. Handcrafted by Suzanne Chan of Japanese paper and glass, these chokers are a steal at $18 - $24. These are the perfect accessory to get you through the dog days of summer and put a smile on your face without breaking the bank. Available from Maisonneuve.

Green Tea Swirl Large Pendant Choker

Candy Pink Large Pendant Choker

Lip Service

Do your lips feel like a dry, cracked mess after a summer full of sun, sand and sea? Try Lip Shimmers from Burt's Bees. They’re made from natural ingredients like vitamin E, coconut and sunflower oils that will moisturize and highlight your lips while conditioning them. And now they add a kiss of color and shine when you apply them. These lip shimmers are so easy to apply, you don't even need to look. Keep one in your pocket when you're on the go and need a quick touch-up. They'll help you look polished without stopping to fuss with a brush or a mirror. The only thing that's hard about them is choosing your shade. HOW THEY WORK: Apply shimmer to lips as often as needed or desired. It's good for you. Eat it off. Kiss it off. Talk it off. Re-apply.

Bonjour Paul & Joe!

Today is August 1st and it marks the first day of a 3 month long run for the flirty French brand Paul & Joe and their partnership with Target. Available until October 31st, this line will include kimono-style tops and dresses, boudoir-inspired camisoles and pants, and some wonderfully colorful knits and accessories.


The Paul & Joe line is designed by Sophie Albou, and features lovely and unique vintage-inspired prints and details. The partnership between Paul & Joe and Target marks the third installment in Go International's red-hot designers, following Luella Bartley and Tara Jarmon. The collection will include 112 pieces ranging in price from $6.99 to $139.99. At those prices surely you can find a little something that will brighten your wardrobe!