A Shield for Your Skin

As summer abounds chances are you’ll find yourself seaside or swimming in the pool at least a handful of times. Protect your skin with Coppertone’s newest line of skincare products called NutraShield. Enriched with antioxidants that help to repair skin NutraShield can prevent premature aging. NutraShield Faces has an SPF of 70 and is perfect for putting on each morning to protect your delicate skin from even the most casual exposure. When you’ll be directly in the sun, try NutraShield with an SPF of 30 or 70, also infused with nourishing antioxidants to help keep your skin looking good while protecting it from harmful UVA/UVB rays. These latest Coppertone formulas are hypoallergenic and waterproof/water resistant, and will help you make the most of your summer fun. Find Coppertone NutraShield line at grocery stores, drug stores and mass merchants for $10.49 each.

Summer Mocktails

A few months ago we reviewed the book Preggatinis: Mixology for the Mom-to-be, full of fabulous drink recipes formulated just for the expectant mama and her friends. We were immediately smitten with this book, filled to the brim with some of the most delicious (and dare we say, creative) recipes for drinks I've heard of, either with or without alcohol. So what else to do but round up a couple of copies to help you celebrate your summer in style?

Whether you're planning a baby shower, hosting a summer dinner party or just relaxing with friends, you'll enjoy whipping up a batch of Madras Mia's or Minty Mango Coolers for a tall glass of sophisticated refreshment. Sip away your summer in style!

Win It
We're giving two winners a copy of the book Preggatinis: Mixology for the Mom-to-be. To enter just leave your name and tell us about your favorite cocktail (or mocktail). Deadline is Midnight, EST, July 5, 2009.

* Congrats to our winners: Anne T. and Claudette F.

Bye-Bye Mess, Hello Purex

As a mom, doing laundry just comes with the job. So when someone comes along and says they can help to streamline the process I'm all ears. As simple as it seems, taking the time to measure detergent and fabric softener for the washer can be a pain. I already feel as if I have to sneak away from the kids just to throw a load in, but by the time I measure and pour they're yelling for me or just being naughty. What's a busy mom of 2 energetic kids to do?

This is where Purex Complete 3-in-1 comes in. Cleverly designed as a laundry sheet this multi-tasker helps to simplify the laundry and save moms what they need most - time and money. Made with just the right amount of detergent and fabric softener and anti-static ingredients to go from the washer right into the dryer, Purex Complete 3-in-1 helps to make laundry less of a hassle, and something you can even get the kids to help with! That's something we all could use.

Visit Purex.com to download a $1 off coupon and enter the sweepstakes to win $1000 or a year's supply of Purex Complete 3-in-1.

Style for Plus Sized Women

I know what it's like to be big and tall, trust me. My last name may be Little but there is nothing "little" about me (or anyone in my family, for that matter). When I was growing up I spent a lot of time on the heavy side, but always managed to stay inside the range of "regular" juniors or women's sizes without having to venture into the plus sizes. However, I know many women, relatives included, who are big and beautiful and find shopping for chic clothing and shoes in sizes above a 12 or 10 respectively, challenging, to say the least. Yet women of all sizes deserve to look beautiful and several lines want to make sure they have a wonderful selection when it comes time to shop. Here are some chic picks that keep women of all sizes looking lovely.

Just because women have a few extra pounds on their frames does not mean they should be relegated to wearing the equivalent of sack dresses. Quite the contrary - they should show off their shape with clothing that really fits and flatters their curves, making the most of what they have. So we just love the selection offered by Forever 21's spin off line, Faith 21. Full of flattering, curve-hugging styles that gracefully skim the body, these well-priced separates are perfect for big and beautiful gals.

Rachel Pally is a hip LA designer known for her sophisticated line of knit tops, dresses and more that are as comfy as can be. Worn by the likes of Angelina and other celebs, Rachel Pally has made her mark in the fashion world. When she launched her line of plus sized clothing, you can bet it made a big splash. Try her sexy maxi dresses, tops cut to flatter and breezy jackets when you want a little more coverage.

Designer Kathryn Kerrigan didn't always want to be a designer. She set out for law school, but after becoming frustrated because she couldn't readily find shoes to fit her size 11 foot, re-routed her career with a degree in business and set up shop designing chic, European shoes made to fit sizes 6 up to a 15. With an eye for detail Kathryn Kerrigan makes plus-sized footwear that doesn't just fit, but really fills the bill when it comes to a woman's need for style. Sure, she creates the basics in gorgeous Italian leathers and other materials. But she also indulges a woman's sense of whimsy with her unique touches such as the lovely flower above.

Whatever your size, let your personal style show through. When you express your personality through your clothing it's like showing the world who you really are!

Your Signature Color

Do you have a signature color? Do you think you need one? Finding a signature color is all about finding out more about yourself and expressing your personal style. I love all colors but my signature colors is red. I have red boots that I wear with just about everything when it's cool outside, and red patent sandals that give a surprise pop when worn with a black and white dress, my white jeans and a teal top or just my dark denim and black. I usually wear my red belt and add a touch of red somewhere in my accessories. In the language of fashion feng shui my element is fire, and red is the color of fire. Also, my dosha is pitta, or also fire. So red has always been my color but only in the past few years has it become my signature color. When I wear it I feel unstoppable!

Finding a signature color that you wear every day is an easy way to add color to your wardrobe and spice up your more neutral pieces, without becoming overwhelmed with color.

Your signature color could be:

A color that relates to your personal coloring:
• your eye color, or your hair color, for example
• Try wearing colors opposite of your coloring (on the color wheel) to find those shades that make your hair, skin or eyes really pop

One of your favorite colors in a shade that is flattering to you:
• A vivid red or bold yellow if you have dark, clear coloring
• A mustard or chartreuse if you have an olive skintone
• A periwinkle if you have fair skin, hair and eyes

A color that relates to your style personality:
• Are you outgoing and dynamic? Go for a bold shade like red or violet.
• Are you reserved? A subtle sage green or soft blue would set you apart without drawing attention to you.
• Are you romantic? Try shades of pink, mauve and lavender.
• For a classic look, it’s hard to beat navy blue.

Once you have one, add it in where you can. It can become almost like a neutral, one that you wear with everything. Wear it in jewelry, in shoes, in tops and coats. It can be empowering, helping to connect you more to yourself. When you wear your signature color it can also be very comforting and help to ground you. It can be a sense of security, when you feel nothing looks good on you, you can always rest assured that your signature color won't let you down. Before you select one it may be helpful to consult a stylist to ensure you're selecting a shade that is great for you. Once you have one, make it yours in your own unique way and show your true colors to the world!

Oodles of Noodles

I was smitten with Noodles & Co. before I even set foot inside the door. I had been lucky enough to receive not only a buy-one-get-one coupon, but a nutritional guide that gave me the low-down on all the dishes. Could this really be true? A restaurant that served up healthy dishes that were all based around one of my favorites - noodles? As it turns out, yes, it could be true. Noodles & Co. serves up a wide variety of dishes ranging from Mac and Cheese to Pad Thai, and most are what I would consider to be fairly healthy. Apparently, I’m not the only one. Noodles & Co. made Health magazine’s top 10 healthiest food chains list with a proud ranking of number 4. Started in 1995 by Aaron Kennedy, Noodles & Co. was created with the goal of offering the best noodle dishes from around the world on one menu. It took the form of a fast, fresh and wholesome noodle shop and 14 years later they're growing by leaps and bounds.

What makes Noodles & Co. so good is that each of it's global dishes is prepared to order using pasta, veggies, fresh herbs and spices, their tasty (and not too heavy) artisan sauces along with chicken, beef, shrimp or organic tofu. With simple noodle bowls like mac and cheese or noodles with marinara for the kids, and dishes that cater to a more discerning palate such as Pad Thai or Tuscan Linguine, there's something for everyone. The average price for and entree is $7, and they come out quick as a wink so the kids don't have time to get bored. To make your child's meal more healthy, ask for a side of broccoli (just $.75!), add some organic milk and you're set.

Here's what I say: Eat more noodles!

* Don't just take my word for it, see for yourself. Take a peek at the nutritional information for Noodles & Co. and you'll see that, while there are a couple of chart-topping numbers, the majority of entrees weigh in at a reasonable level of fat and calories.

Win It
We're giving three winners a $25 gift card to Noodles & Co. (that'll just about cover a family of 4). To enter simply leave us a comment and give us your tips for dining out with kids, or your favorite perk for kids when eating out. Keep it short and sweet, please. Deadline is Midnight, EST, July 3rd.

*Congrats to our winners: Annette D., Kate S. and Renee T.

2009 Spring and Summer Trends

For Spring and Summer 2009 there are some very wearable trends. One of the season's biggest trends is color, which in its own right is not usually referred to as a trend. Yet with the state of the economy one of the best ways to lift our moods without spending a lot on new clothes is to add some color to our usual wardrobe of black, black and more black. But aside from color, some of the best trends are those that are easiest to wear at all ages. These are my picks for top ten trends of the season for women at any age. But bear in mind, my best piece of advice for adopting trends is to ignore the trends and trust your own instincts when it comes to what works for you. Only you and your personal stylist know what that is (and perhaps a close friend or two).

1. Nudes and Neutrals – This season skintones have replaced black as the go-with-everything hue. Pair them with each other or use them as a backdrop for the season’s hottest hues. When you wear your skintone your complexion will look luminous and radiant. Try metallic nudes and neutrals for an edgy update. Patent and pearlized finishes and sequins, once reserved for just for evening, now impart a chic look for daytime and can enhance the natural highlights in your hair.

2. Color – Color is huge for spring and never has there been a better time to wear it. It lifts our mood and makes us happy – who couldn’t use that about now? Whether you opt for bright citrus hues, pinks, blues or greens, wearing the shade that best suits your own personal coloring (instead of matching the Pantone chip that’s “in”) will give you the most flattering look for the season. The right colors will make you look vibrant while the wrong colors can make you look ill. Try neutrals with a pop of your favorite candy colored bright!

3. Statement Jewelry – Big, bold necklaces, chandelier earrings, bib necklaces, an armload of bangles and statement handbags are everywhere for spring. But remember that you want to wear the accessory, not let the accessory wear you. Keep your scale and proportion in mind when selecting your adornments and remember that less is more.

4. Romantic – Whether you prefer understated ruffles, floral prints or an overall bohemian look, you’ve got your choice of romantic options this season. Pile it or wear just one romantic item to make the look truly your own.

5. Military Inspired Jackets – A Trench Coat in a spring weight is a must-have this season. Opt for a loose, slouchy trench in a neutral linen or a more crisp look in a bold hue and you’ve got a versatile piece that brings your wardrobe up to the minute. The Cropped Military Jacket, often called the Sergeant Pepper Jacket makes a return for spring. With a sharply tailored fit and subtle embellishment on the front, the style serves as a fun alternative to a jean jacket or blazer.

6. Bold Shoes – Keep your clothing simple and let your shoes speak volumes about who you are! The season’s hottest looks include:
• Gladiator sandals - These have been in the spotlight since last year and are a perennial favorite for some. Available in all heel heights and everything from neutrals, to skins to brights, gladiators are most flattering on women who have narrow ankles. If you have thick ankles or calves, steer clear of this style and opt for something with a more open throat to elongate your legs.
• Beaded, Tribal and Ornamentation - Plain shoes are a thing of the past. This season is all about adornment and your feet are where it's at! Try a pair of sandals, flats or pumps with beads, fringe, intricate weaving or other eyecatching additon
• Metallics, skins - Try a pair of sexy metallic sandals to spark up your look, or a loafer in a skin for a new twist on a classic look. Anything with texture or shine, including patent leather, is all the rage for the season.
• Pop of Color - Your shoes don't have to match your outfit - why not try a sassy pair of blue wedges with your saucy yellow dress? Or give your neutrals a boost with a pair of orange and fuchsia flats? Mix it up and keep your look exciting, but try not to go overboard.
• Wedges - A wedge is an easy to wear style that combines the best of a heel and a flat. Look for wedges in sandal, closed toe and peep-toe styles to go with your dresses, skirts and cropped trousers this season.

7. Graphic and Color Block Prints – Think architectural black and white prints and colorful, geometrically inspired patterns. Look for playful polka dots too. Try these in dresses, tops, jewelry or even a trench coat.

8. Short Sleeved or Sleeveless Jackets – A great way to add that third layer while keeping your cool. The vest jacket creates a polished look that’s perfect for warm weather. Think SJP in Sex and the City movie (her lovely long green sleeveless jacket).

9. Mix-and-Match Patterns - Designers put patterns together in unexpected ways this season. To pull off this kooky-cool style without looking crazy, take cues from Michael Kors and stick to patterns that share the same hues. Use one pattern as your focal point while allowing the others to play second fiddle and serve as a backdrop.

10. Strong Shoulders - Strong shoulders may conjure up images of Alexis Carrington and power suits from the 80’s, but can also bring a very updated feel to your jackets, dresses and tops. This is a great look to give sloping or small shoulders more definition, but if you already have broad shoulders you may want to skip the shoulder pads. This look can be very slimming and helps to create balance for those with a few extra pounds around the middle. If you have a large chest, be careful with emphasizing the shoulders – you may draw unwanted attention to other areas as well.

Put Your Fresh Foot Forward

As the weather heats up so does our perspiration level. This is true not only for our bodies but our feet as well. Keep your feet smelling fresh while keeping up with your daily workouts with Airplus: Coolmax Performance Insoles. Designed especially for women these beathable insoles help to manage moisture where we need it most. Tuck these in your running shoes, your summer flats or any closed-toe shoes to keep your feet odor-free and feeling fresh. Airplus: Coolmax Performance Insoles offer breathable foam protection for your feet as well as antimicrobal protection against odor-causing bacteria. Find them at your local Rite Aid stores for $15.99 per pair.
Stylist Tara Swennan offers up tips to help your feel keep their cool this summer:

Solutions to Avoiding Blisters
The key to avoiding blisters and rubbing is to minimize friction and moisture. Try rubbing baby powder between your toes or on your heels before leaving the house or place moleskin around the inner toe area of the thong.

Solutions for Flat Sandals
To make flats such as gladiators more foot and back friendly add full pads that simultaneously cushion the heel and ball of foot. My Footprints by ‘Airplus for Her’ come in fun, colorful prints such as leopards or polka dots.

Solutions for Strappy Sandals
Many people become uncomfortable in killer strappy high heels due to the lack of arch support. ‘Airplus for Her’ makes a gel insert that adheres to the shoe and helps in creating that needed support while being virtually invisible to onlookers.

Solutions for Sling Back Sandals
The best trick for slippery sling backs is ‘Airplus For Her’ Strappies. They are thin adhesive strips that you can place on the inside of the heel strap to help them stay on.

Mamapedia Gives You the Scoop

Quick, where do you go when you're looking for the perfect vacation spot with kids, a sunscreen that doesn't smell or tips on losing weight while nursing? Why, Mamapedia, oc course! Chock full of tips and tidbits geared towards mothers with kids of all agaes, Mamapedia is a veritable encyclopedia for moms on just about everything. With free information to moms from other moms, Mamapedia is a community that answers your questions (no matter how embarrassing, weird, etc) and gives you real answers. So next time you have questions try Mamapedia.

Spread Your Wings and Fly

Butterflies are an ever-present motif in fashion during warm weather. And why not? These lovely creatures fill us with delight at their mere appearance and their brightly hued wings. My son loves to watch butterflies and is mesmerized when he sees one. Perhaps he realizes that it started life out as just a caterpillar, then went on to blossom into the beautiful creature it is now.

Butterflies are symbolic of metamorphosis making them the perfect symbol for women. We are constantly reinventing ourselves, becoming better and more beautiful with age. So why not add a butterfly or two to your wardrobe and let it fill those around you with delight!

Items shown here:
1. This pretty Butterfly Tee has a homespun feel and looks great paired with shorts or a denim skirt($10).

2. Add a touch of elegance to your outfit with this silver butterfly ring ($198).

3. Carry your belongings in a Kate Landry Butterfly Tote($59) for a chic take on a practical tote.

4. Pin on this gorgeous butterfly brooch ($173) and watch your outfit take flight!

5. How can you not look glamorous in these lovely Prada Butterfly Sunglasses ($245)?

6. An ethereal butterfly print scarf ($9) takes your tees to a whole new level.

7. This colorful Butterfly Tote ($59) makes shopping even more fun!

8. jade butterfly earrings (12 GBP) add a subtle sophistication to your most casual of looks.

Children Having Children

Our teenage years are meant to be enjoyed. Sure, there's high school, homework and college applications to think about. But the rest of the time is usually spent texting friends, shopping for the hottest trends and having crushes. Sometimes those crushes turn into boyfriends. And sometimes pregnancy is the result.

For the first time in 15 years teenage pregnancy is on the rise. Over the past year ABC has followed four families who are dealing with teen pregnancies and all of its consequences and airs a documentary tackling this difficult topic: Primetime: Family Secrets that airs on Tuesday, June 23rd at 10pm EST.

Along with following pregnant teens and hearing the reality of how teenage pregnancy really changes things, two different schools of thought regarding talking to kids about sex. There's the abstinence approach and there's the approach that assumes that kids are going to have sex. Not a lot of happy medium, I know, but two very different extremes. Perhaps we should stress moderation and see what happens? Just my two cents worth.

I plan to watch this because, even though my daughter's only 6, I realize that in our culture kids are having sex and becoming sexually aware WAY before they're in their teens. With all I've read about kids (yes, kids) sending pics of themselves naked to friends of the opposite sex, and propositions initiated by girls (did you see Oprah a few weeks ago?), I realize that things have changed a LOT since I was a teen and I want to be as prepared as possible. This is an important subject and the more parents can do to educate ourselves and our children, the more decisions will be made that aim toward a hopeful future.

Groom Your "Hair Down There"

Let's face it, summer is a time when we shed our cozy winter cocoons and bare it all (or so it seems). Short shorts, bikinis, even our one-piece swimsuits don't leave that much to the imagination these days, so keeping ourselves well groomed becomes much more important. Remember that scene in the movie "Sex and the City" when Miranda dons her swimsuit, hat and heels, only to be ridiculed by Samantha for her unwieldy and wildly exposed pubes? Well, let's just take that as a hint for what not to sport when we hit the beach, the lake or the pool.

But don't despair. If you're on a budget or just feeling a bit modest, you can take care of your personal grooming in the privacy of your own home. READYbetty is a handy little personal grooming kit that was developed by a chemist and is a safe hair remover with a fresh, clean scent. With hints of peach, lavender and rose and a special fragrance ingredient that blocks the sulphor smell typical of most cream hair removers, READYbetty also has a sweet conditioning complex and moisturizer to prevent irritation.

With fun charmcils you can show your true colors with a hear shape, a flower and more, or you can just give yourself a basic bikini wax that keeps everything under wraps.

The full READYbetty kit includes:

· NEW Bettybare cream hair remover
· Popular charmcils in eight special stencil shapes
· Small scissors
· Special trimmer tool

Find READYbetty for $14.99 at Duane Reade and Bed Bath & Beyond stores as well as select spas and salons.

Win It!

One winner will receive a READYbetty kit to help keep themselves swimsuit ready! Just leave us a comment and tell us if you currently wax, shave or use other methods to keep your pubes in check. Deadline is Midnight, June 28.

* Congrats to our winner, Elizabeth J.

Great Design on the Cheap

For years high-end designers have been collaborating with budget stores to make good design more affordable and available to the masses. I, for one, am a huge fan of this trend. Not only do I desire good design but feel that it's a necessity in our lives. Why should anyone be relegated to plain, basic or just plain ugly anything because they're on a budget?

Fortunately for us there are some wonderful new collaborations coming down the pipeline that will have us jumping for joy. Here's what you can anticipate and start drooling over:

1/ Miley Cyrus and Max Azria of BCBG fame are teaming up to design a collection for Wal-Mart. Made up of tops, tees and accessories, this will keep your budget in line with all pieces coming it at under $20. Your daughters will be drooling before it even

2/ Gap and the CFDA are collaborating on a new line of pieces all in khaki. This utilitarian and universally versatile shade will be crafted into styles by designers Alexander Wang, Albertus Swanepoel, Lisa Mayock, and Sophie Buhai and will feature jackets, cocktail dresses and other upscale khaki items. Priced from $39.50 - $88, this line unfortunately goes up to a size 10. Guess my size 12 body won't be wearing anything from it. *sigh*

3/ This fall get your feet ready because Jimmy Choo will be hitting the budget megastore H and M. On November 14 Jimmy Choo takes H & M by storm with a line of accessories and shoes for both women and men in 250 locations around the world. He'll also create a clothing capsule for women so they can be dressed head to toe in Jimmy Choo. Just make sure you don't wear your Jimmy Choos when you stand in that line. This latest venture comes hot on the heels of H and M’s cheap-chic, sell-out collections by Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, and Britain’s ‘Boho King’, Matthew Williamson. I estimate this will last in stores for, what, 4 hours tops? Make your wish list early!

4/ Stella McCartney has proven that she has wings when it comes to design and is bringing her chic styling to a line of clothing for GapKids and babyGap. This sounds lovely but what about us mamas out here? I could sure use a Stella McCartney designed something for myself at Gap prices. How about you?

So keep an eye out for these delightful collaborations coming down the pipeline. Looks like we have some great shopping to look forward to that fits in with a mom's budget!

Know of other collaborations coming up? I'd love to hear about them.

Take Your Baby EveryWear

Summer is synonomous with spending time outdoors and having a baby or toddler doesn’t have to slow you down. With the EveryWear carrier from lillebaby ($99.95) you can easily take your child with you, wherever you go. The EveryWear can hold up to 43 pounds and offers multiple options for carrying baby in comfort, whether it’s outward facing, inward facing, hip or back, and has been JPMA certified for safety. Made to help promote a healthy spine as well as absorb weight and movement, the EveryWear is lightweight, water repellent and small enough to be tucked into a diaper bag. With pockets for keys, cell phones and diapers, the EveryWear helps keep families on the move.

Win It
We're giving one winner an EveryWear carrier from lillebaby. To enter just leave us a comment and tell us what you'll be doing this summer where you could use it. Deadline is Midnight, EST, June 25.

Stock Up on Tanks, Just $2 Each

Are you in need of some cute, casual summer tops? Then stop into your local Old Navy tomorrow, June 20th, and stock up on rib-knit tanks for just $2 each. Available in all the colors of the rainbow, you'll want one of each. Yet the 5 per person limit is in place, so bring a friend, your kids or your husband so you can stock up.

If you made it to the $1 flip flop sale a few weeks ago then you know what a madhouse Old Navy was. Our local store was cleaned out with hardly a pair left, so make sure you take along a snack so you don't get too cranky, and an extra dose of patience.

Space Treat: How to Stay On Course

So, you've finally carved out a few hours to start organizing. During the process it's very common to find items that need to be relocated.

For example, say you're beginning with the kitchen cabinets and in order to pull everything out and sort it you need to clear off the counters. While doing that, you find a new tube of toothpaste and a new box of band-aids lurking on the counter. They never made it to your medicine cabinet when you unpacked your grocery bags 7 days ago.

Instead of walking them to their rightful home at the moment of discovery, start a "redistribution" pile so that you can stay focused on the task at hand - organizing the kitchen cabinets - and not run around putting things away. Drop all the items for redistribution in a bin, box or bag, making it easier to put them away when you're done with the kitchen.

Clients tell me that when they try to organize by themselves, they run around the house immediately putting each newly discovered item away, partly as a way of avoiding the task at hand and partly because they think they should immediately do so. As a result it takes forever to accomplish their original goal because they get distracted and often start doing something else. Sound familiar?

The redistribution pile keeps you focused on your primary goal and saves you time in the long run. Once your organizing session is complete, take 5 minutes and then redistribute the items from your pile.

Space-taculary,
Erica
The Spacialist
212.924.4383

Slim Down Your Sandwich

Looking for ways to cut calories while not making noticeable changes to the way I eat has been my strategy recently for dropping an extra couple of pounds. I don't really mind healthy alternatives, and often even prefer them. I am one of those rare people who actually loves healthy food and will choose the healthier option anyday over a calorie-laden, full fat alternative, even if it doesn't taste quite as good. So when I recently picked up some Arnold Select Sandwich Thins I was quite surprised with how flavorful they were, and found myself feeling like I was actually treating, rather than depriving myself.

While on a recent trip to Pawley's Island we had a cookout one evening. Even though I planned to indulge in a homemade burger (1/2 ground sirloin, 1/2 ground pork) I thought it would be a great time to save a few calories on the bun (hey, every little bit counts). Let's just say that I wasn' disappointed. A few days later when I made salmon cakes (like crabcakes but with salmon) I decided to have a salmon cake sandwich. With a little low-fat basil mayo, a few mixed greens and a toasted Arnold Select Sandwich Thin I had the perfect lunch!

What's good about them? These babies are made with whole grains and contain a full 5 grams of fiber in each one! Plus there's no high-fructose corn syrup. Lots of good ingredients add up to a flavorful taste. Each sandwich thin contains just 100 calories and is pre-sliced, making them easy to open without making a big mess. They're nice and soft yet hold their shape, and toast up well. Great with burgers, salmon cakes, luncheon meats, cheeses, veggies, etc.

Who would eat them? Well, so far they've gotten the thumbs up from everyone who's tried them in my house. You'd be hard pressed to find someone who didn't like them. If you or your family don't like multi-grain bread, try the Whole Grain white version for a smooth texture and none of the grainy stuff.

Find these at your local grocery in the bread section. They're about $2.99 for a pack of 8.

Simple Pleasures Every Day

Imagine stepping into the shower and lathering up with an invigorating shower gel, sloughing off dry skin with a sugar scrub, then giving your body a post-shower glow with a delightfully rich and fragrant shea souffle. Now imagine that the products are all-natural, hand crafted and free from toxic ingredients and you’ll understand what’s special about White Pear. White Pear products are created to give you a multi-sensory experience. Energy, Ginger Citrus and Lavender Vanilla are just a few of the fragrances White Pear gifts and bath products are infused with, and are a perfect way to make every day special. And right now if you order $50 worth of products or more shipping is on the house!

Create a Flawless Finish

If you're looking for a foundation that's lightweight, creates a flawless finish and comes complete with sunscreen then look no further than the Treatment Powder Foundation from La Mer. Not only does it give medium to full coverage but this amazing formula creates a flawless finish that feels like you're wearing absolutely nothing on your face!

La Mer's Treatment Powder Foundation is magically formulated to give you the coverage you need without all the heavy, greasy or cake-y texture that you don't need when the temperature's going up outside. It's packed with gemstones (one of La Mer's little secrets) to capture light and give you a radiant and flawless complexion, perfect for summertime, plus an SPF of 15. It goes on like silk with a velvety sponge that yields a perfect application, even if you don't have a steady hand. Available in 10 different shades, there's sure to be one that will help you look your best. If you can't quite get away with sheer coverage but you need something that's light as a feather, try the Treatment Powder Foundation. At $95 it's an investment - but it's one you can count on to make you look your best!

Hair Free

Cleaning your hairbrush is something you’d rather not spend time on. With new hairfreé™ self-cleaning hairbrushes, you don’t have to. These round and paddle-style brushes work just like your regular hair brush to create a look you'll love. Use them to:

- Create a smooth and sleek style with incredible shine
- Prevent static build-up
- Straighten or add curl to your hair
- Evenly distribute heat from your hair dryer, drying your hair quickly and uniformly

The big difference between hairfreé™ brushes and your regular brush is that cleaning them is a cinch. A built in release lifts the hair up and away, making clean up a breeze. These ceramic-plated hairbrushes can also be heated to work like a flat iron, giving you a sleek style. Perfect for all hair types hairfreé™ self-cleaning hairbrushes are just $10 - $16, or get both styles for $19.

Get the Look...For Less

By now you all know what a big fan of accessories I am. Not only do I personally swoon over a gorgeous statement necklace but I think there's a whole lot more to accessories than meets the eye. Accessories are like the icing on the cake - they complete the outfit and punctuate your look. Going out without accessories is like going out half-dressed, in my opinion. But as important as accessories are, I don't think anyone should blow their entire budget on a necklace or a pair of earrings, no matter how fabulous they are. See, there are great resources around like Shop the Look that offer up jewelry, scarves and handbags that are right on-trend, with prices that you're not gonna believe! I mean, you can have all the items above for less than $100, and I don't mean each. With many items priced at less than $20, you can have your cake and eat it too!

Ombre for Summer

With color being such a popular trend this summer it's not surprising that ombre has come into the spotlight. If you're not familiar with ombre, it's the graduated shading of color, which runs the gamut from light to dark in a similar shade or can include multiple hues.

The key to wearing ombre is to keep the rest of your outfit simple and let the ombre take center stage. Almost like a stripe or a print, ombre can be teamed with another pattern, but do so with caution. Let the ombre take center stage and let the rest of your outfit act as a supportive cast of characters. If your ombre is in a bold color, tone it down by pairing with neutral colors or with a less intense shade. If it's in a neutral or a pale color, add a bold pop of color in your accessories including necklace, shoes or handbag.

Who can wear it? Ombre is a chic look and can be worn by women of all ages.

In your 20's: try an ombre camisole with spaghetti straps or a strapless maxidress. A pair of ombre shoes is a funky way to rock this look.

In your 30's: go for an ombre t-shirt or a tank-style dress. Toss an ombre scarf in a floaty gauze 'round your neck with a simple tee and a skirt.

In your 40's: an ombre tank-style maxi-dress offers a chic look with plenty of coverage. Try an ombre cardigan over a tank top or sundress.

In your 50's and up: Try ombre in subtle colors in a skirt or a cardigan. An ombre handbag is a lovely way to punch your look up without looking too trendy.

With ombre becoming so popular you can find everything from hats to tops to my favorite, dresses. So embrace ombre and give your wardrobe a fun twist with this dip-dye trend.

Sweetness and Light

Question: What's sugar-free, all natural and has no bitter aftertaste?
Answer: The new sweetener called Truvia.

Made from, rebiana, the sweetest part of the stevia plant, Truvia is a delicious new sweetener that surprised even me with it's clean, smooth taste. I am not a big fan of artificial sweeteners, preferring natural sugar to anything with a list of ingredients I can't pronounce. I have tried stevia and although I want to like it (really, I do) I just can't seem to tolerate the bitter aftertaste. So when I did a taste test with Truvia it came out a winner. Even my two year old asked for more!

With a fresh taste that's reminescent of Equal, Truvia has an ever-so-slight hint of mint to it, without being overpowering. I think this would be a great addition to iced tea or other beverages. Apparently there are many uses for it that include baked goods such as cheesecake and blueberry pie. Take a peek at these recipes to make your mouth start watering.

If you're looking for a replacement for sugar in your house, whether you're watching your calories or have a diabetic at home, I highly recommend giving Truvia a shot. I think you'll be quite pleased with this little bit of sweetness and light.

Show Your True Colors

When we give we help others, but we also receive ourselves. One great way to give back to those in service to our country is Operation Gratitude, which seeks to lift the morale of those deployed in remote locations far from friends and family, by sending care packages. These packages are addressed to individual soldiers and contain food, hygiene products, entertainment items and personal letters of appreciation, all wrapped with good wishes of love and support.

Cafe Press is a supporter of Operation Gratitude, and has created a special edition line of tee shirts, tanks and onesies that let you show your true colors. A portion of the proceeds from sales of these items will be donated to Operation Gratitude. As we gear up for Independence Day, stock up on your red, white and blue and show your gratitude while supporting a great cause!


Win It
We're giving away four (4) Remember onesies from Cafe Press ($15 value each) to fit your infants (0-3 mos), just in time to show their stars and stripes for July 4th. To enter, just leave a comment and tell us how you show your patriotism. Deadline is Midnight, EST, June 15, 2009.

Space Treat: That Never-Ending List...

Ever feel that no matter how much you've done that you always have so much more to do?

Yes, then try this: Make your goal to do the things on your list for a very specific amount of time, instead of making it your goal to just try to finish everything on your list. (Be sure to prioritize your list before getting started, so that you're spending your time focusing on the items with the biggest urgency first.)

For example, set the timer and plow through as much of your list as you can for only 45 minutes a day. At the end of the time you still may be "behind" but now you've actually accomplished your 45 minute goal!

If you create to-do lists that are unrealistic and impossible to accomplish, then you're constantly reinforcing a negative behavior pattern. With this new option, your goal is successfully completed every time you finish your 45 minutes.

This results in a more positive way of focusing on productivity. Instead of always being under the weight of your tasks, you're now on top! When you chip away at your projects like this you're always winning and over time you'll ultimately finish - and with much less stress!

Space-taculary,
Erica
The Spacialist
212.924.4383

Be a Part of Rock and Roll History

Are you a fan of rock and roll? Whether you rocked out to Queen, the Ramones, the Clash, John Lennon or other iconic bands of the 70's and 80's, chances are Worn Free has tracked down historical photos of your favorite acts and recreated the very t-shirts they wore onstage. How cool is that? But don't worry. Worn Free has taken the time to get the proper ok's from the folks who originally printed the t-shirts in the first place, so credit is given where it's due.
Worn Free is a wonderful concept and brings together historical t-shirt designs from all your favorite rockers in one location. Printed on some of the softest t-shirts you'll ever wear, Worn Free's quality is amazing and creates the perfect tee for mom, dad and the kids.

One thing (of many) that makes this tee shirt line so cool is that not only does your budding rock star daughter get to wear the same shirt Joan Jett did in November of 1975 when she performed in LA, but the shirts also come with a hangtag that looks like a backstage pass. The tag has a picture of the original shirt being worn by the rocker as well as the date they played and the venue, making her feel she is a part of rock and roll history.

*Editor's Note: My son received this cool Joey Ramone t-shirt and immediately wanted to put it on. Although I don't think he's ever heard the Ramones (well, maybe once) he sensed that this tee was quite special and was enamored of it. When we went out later that day our rock star friend was envious and wanted one for his daughter (and himself!).

Brazilian Beauty for Your Feet

If you’re familiar with Havaianas, you know just how popular they are among celebs such as Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Cameron Diaz. But did you know Christian Louboutin owns 30 – 40 pairs as well? That speaks volumes about these comfortable, buttery soft Brazilian sandals (they’re so much more than just flip-flops). Havaianas come in an array of fun and fabulous prints, as well as solids, to keep your feet looking and feeling great. Pick your favorites from $22 and up.

Win A Pair of Havaianas
One winner will receive a pair of their choice of Havaianas. To enter leave a comment and tell us which style you'd choose (don't forget your email address). Deadline is Midnight, EST June 12, 2009.

* Congratulations to our winner, AmandaSue H.

Flora and Fauna

Mid-century designer Alexander Girard is once again being featured by the innovators at FLOR with a new design aptly called "FLORA". Inspired by Girard's original work entitled "Eden", this pattern created exclusively for FLOR playfully includes leaves, flowers, birds, butterflies and, yes, a serpent and an apple. The result is a vibrant and colorful pattern on a neutral background, crafted in FLOR's modular format and made from renewable and recyclable resources. What's not to love?

Win It!
We're giving away one FLORa Rug Kit ($160) to create a 3 X 5 rug, perfect for your playroom, bedroom or kitchen. Your choice of leaf (shown), petal or stone colorways. To enter, tell us which one you'd choose and don't forget your email address. Deadline is Midnight, EST, June 10, 2009.

Fruit Smoothies Your Family Will Love

I get tired of nagging my family to eat their fruits and veggies. My daughter used to scarf down fruit like it was going out of style but now that she's almost 6 she's become much more selective. My husband's no big fruit eater himself, but my son can't get enough of it. One way to ensure they get at least a serving of fruit a day is to whip up a batch of Chiquita Fruit Smoothies. These come frozen, like juice, and you just whip them up in the blender with a little water or ice. You can also use this as your smoothie base and pack in more nutrition by adding yogurt, protein powder, fresh berries and more. These delicious and creamy smoothies are made with only natural fruit with no added yucky stuff.

We whipped up our very first batch in our Oster Fusion Blender (thanks, Chiquita!) and it was delicious! The Fusion created the perfect smoothie, blasting through the ingredients and leaving no hidden chunks of ice. I gave it to the kids as a frozen treat after dinner one hot evening and they never even suspected that it was actually good for them. The can says it makes 3 servings, but it made plenty for me and the kids plus a couple of neighbors.

Perfect for kids and adults alike (bet these would taste great with a splash of rum!) Chiquita Fruit Smoothies are a wonderful way to cool off this summer while upping your intake of antioxidants and fruity goodness. In strawberry banana, banana colada, mixed berry and peach mango flavors, your family may just find a new favorite treat that cools them and gives 'em a full daily dose of vitamin C. Look for these in the freezer section of your local grocery for about $2.69 each.

Find out more at Chiquitasmoothie.com. You can register to win a tropical vacation as well as get some great recipes to make other tasty treats using Chiquita Fruit Smoothies. Banana Swirl'sicles, anyone? Yum!

Smooth as Silk

We all know the pitfalls of hair removal. Whether you prefer shaving, waxing, tweezing, electrolysis or laser hair removal, the painful and unsightly side affects can include ingrown hairs, burns and bumps. This makes an already unpleasant experience a little harder to swallow. PFB Vanish is a gentle roll-on gel formulated to help keep skin soft and smooth following hair-removal. With three key exfoliating ingredients including salicylic, glycolic and lactic acids, it’s also enriched with moisturizing and soothing ingredients such as camphor oil. Created to exfoliate skin cells above the skin’s surface, PFB Vanish softens the hair follicle to minimize the recurrence of ingrown hair in the future. For best results, apply to affected areas immediately after shaving, and two days prior to waxing or electrolysis. After hair removal, apply daily to keep your skin as smooth as silk. PFB Vanish is $13.95 for 2 ounces and can be found at salons and spas nationwide.