Archive for December 8th, 2009

Homemade art.

December 8th, 2009 by Ruth

DSCN2620

I’ve found that one way to spruce up my home without spending a fortune is by creating my own artwork. I have a few shots, similar to the one above, that I took during one of my vacations. I absolutely love these pictures because they capture beauty and memories.

Costco offers a convenient online service where you can convert images into canvas prints. The quality is near perfect and when hung properly, you create your own piece of art.

A continuous reminder of good times, my homemade art filled the void above our bed.

Daily Diamond: J.Crew Wool Harbor Peacoat

December 8th, 2009 by Catherine

I’m a huge fan of the peacoat. As a staple in both men’s and women’s wardrobes, it’s one piece that will never lack in style. I’ve had one black peacoat, bought from J.Crew back in 2000, relined to maintain its structure after Ruth so brightly suggested back in November. It still looks sharp to this day, which is unlike what I can say for some other ill-advised purchases made during that time in my life. (Editor’s note – they say the 80s was tough on clothing chocies, but back then, there weren’t any digital cameras to document said ill-advised purchases.)

J.Crew Wool Harbor Peacoat in Dark Poppy

J.Crew Wool Harbor Peacoat in Dark Poppy

But I digress. My point is, I strongly believe that everyone should own a peacoat, not just for its warmth, but also its versatility and classic style. It looks righteous with jeans or trousers, just as much as it does with skirts or a dress. Might I suggest one in a bright color for these dreary months ahead? Check out my top pick from J.Crew, on sale now for $154-$178, depending on your size and color selection. Don’t forget to include the magic code WINTER for free shipping!

Gift Guide: The Butt Book. Under $15

December 8th, 2009 by Ruth

Looking for a useful and affordable gift for the fitness lover in your life? Check out celebrity trainer and fitness expert, David Kirsch’s Butt Book, now available at DavidKirschWellness.com.  

Nicknamed the “Master of the Ass” by his clientele, David Kirsch is responsible for a long list of some of the hottest bodies in Hollywood such as Heidi Klum, Linda Evangelista and Karolina Kurkova.

Kirsch’s new fun, witty how-to manual offers star-tested advice for a complete butt makeover, including:

  • Exercises for firming, sculpting or shrinking all butt types
  • Cardio prescriptions for all body types: Apple (big all over), Pear (too much ‘junk in the trunk’), Banana (big hips, flat butt), and String Bean (no hips, no butt).
  • Nutrition tips on foods that won’t go straight to your butt
  • David’s signature No Excuse * Take It Anywhere regimen

Making a clever holiday gift for $12.95, the cute cartoons make it easy and enjoyable to work out your tush.

Yummy stuffing for stockings, under $20.

December 8th, 2009 by Ruth

Missmoshs Modern Striped Stockings, Available on Etsy.com, $25

Missmosh's Modern Striped Stockings, Available on Etsy.com, $25

 

It’s a Christmas tradition in my house to open stockings first before moving on to the bigger gifts. Notorious for gifting creative stocking stuffers, my mother taught my sister and I to put thought and love into each little prize. Her stuffers were so incredible that we never even rushed to get to the presents under the tree.

Now that I’m older, I love putting together really fun, creative stockings for my friends. Here’s a list of some great ideas for yummy, budget friendly stocking stuffers!

Luna BarsI am obsessed with these things! They come in delicious flavors including S’Mores, Dulce De Leche and Iced Oatmeal Cookie, but are chock-full of vitamins and minerals. Their new recipe now includes Vitamin D, a nutrient proved to be essential for warding off the winter blues. Bars run about $1.50 each, or $18.75 for a box of 15.

Sweetriot Chocolate “Peaces” – Itty, bitty pieces of chocolate dunked raw cacao in a nicely sized, portion-controlled tin all for $19.99 for 3 tins.

Wine Wipes - Small, compact little wipes that take red wine (and other stains) off your teeth. This helps to avoid embarrassing moments under the mistletoe for just $18 for a pack of three.