Oprah's Not The Only One With Favorite Things

Nosefrida, The Snot Sucker

2011-12-03T13:21:00.001-08:00

Yes, I am blogging about a SNOTSUCKER. Let's start off with the basics here, I know it sounds gross but I swear... If you are a mom of a new baby or have a friend who just had a baby. YOU NEED TO BUY NOSEFRIDA for yourself or as a gift. I first heard about it when I saw it at my sister's house... I was afraid to ask what it was. I thought it looked a little... uhhh, what's the word? PERSONAL? Then she told me that she uses it on the baby to get the snot out of the baby's nose and it that it was a MIRACLE. I saw it work as a miracle too. She inserted it in the baby's nose and placed the end of the tube to her lips and sucked. AND THEN THE BABY WAS HAPPY. That is really all you need to know. THE BABY WAS HAPPY. Check it out. www.fridababy.com You can buy at Whole Foods too. ** there is a filter, snot will not go in your mouth.

oxo Good Grips CHOPPER

2011-06-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

I had an incident with a knife that is making it difficult (physically and mentally) to chop veggies, so I purchased this Chopper. It's great! Granted doing it the old fashion way is still better in my eyes but if you have limited use of a thumb these days and can't bring yourself to pick up a sharp knife... this chopper may be one of your new favorite kitchen gadgets!

It is top rack dishwasher safe and I even found it on sale at Williams Sonoma for cheaper than at Bed Bath and Beyond, go figure! The cost is $15- worth it.

Now it's time to get cooking... CHOP CHOP- get to it!

Hilfiger Nantucket Beach Towels

2011-05-08T12:36:00.000-07:00

We realized we don't have any beach towels in our house. Not that we need them that often since we don't have a beach nearby and we don't have a pool. Regardless of all that, we bought these today with my Mother In Law. Love them!! Upon purchase, conversation quickly led us to discussing renting a beach house in Rhode Island for the summer and ending with us setting dates and planning for the trip. I've heard of buying shoes and then finding the perfect dress for them... BUT have you ever heard of buying beach towels and then finding the perfect vacation for them? Well, now you have and so have I! Not to mention, it's not even like we are bringing these towels with us on the trip. I love my Mother In Law, we think the same way when it comes to shopping. Happy Mother's Day!

Boots Cuticle Oil

2011-03-21T22:30:00.001-07:00

There is one very easy way to save a manicure or pedicure... Cuticle Oil. Any will do but I particularly like Boots because of the adorable packaging. It works just as good as 99cent oil. Every time I notice my pedicure not looking as fresh anymore, all I need to do is dab a little cuticle oil on my toesies and they look all jazzed up in about 30 seconds.

Same goes for manicures, I don't get those too often though because then I won't wash any dishes for a week or really wash anything, clean anything or really actually move for fear of ruining my manicure or chipping a nail. But when my nails looks a bit tired or dry, dab dab here and dab dab there and they are refreshed. SOLD! Next time you are at Target, you can pick up Boots Cuticle Oil for $8 or you can really just buy whatever is the cheapest, they are all the same and have the same fabulous outcome.

Time to oil up, my little beauties.

Martha Stewart's Rub Away Bar

2011-03-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

Cooking is something I do on a regular basis. Often times it involves cutting up onions and garlic and then I wash my hands and they still smell like onions and garlic. Soap just will not do. That is why Martha's RUB AWAY BAR is amazing. It is a hollow stainless steal bar, shaped like a bar of soap. All you do is rub your hands with it under water and it neutralizes the scent. It's pretty fantastic, people! How genius is this? It's one thing to make an amazing pot roast, but it's another to smell like one too.

Patricia Wexler Night Repair Cream

2011-02-21T21:39:00.000-08:00

The time has come. I need to use a special night face cream. I've been using Patty's Night Reversal & Repair Cream for a couple years now and I still get carded sometimes when I buy alcohol (AND once last month while buying a lotto ticket!!) so I think it works pretty well. The good genes and extra weight I carry may help with keeping my baby face but I like to think this cream has a bit to do with it too. I like having that regime, it makes me feel like a starlet. I am going to admit that some nights (okay many nights) I barely wash my face but when I do, I am so good about applying this super think moisturizing cream to my face and neck. While I sleep, I envision everything being all repaired and perfect so when I wake up I look like Jennifer Lopez.

The entire Patricia Wexler line is pretty awesome. I use many of her products but this night cream is my fav! It's about $40 at Bath and Body Works, I use all sorts of coupons and often times it goes on sale. That's when I buy it.

Earth Therapeutics Moisturizing Socks & Gloves

2011-02-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

Some people think going to sleep with sock on is just too uncomfortable... can you imagine sleeping with gloves on?! Both seemed like torture to me until I tried it. I still wake up quite often like M. Jackson (sans one glove), but for the most part, I keep them on. I do end up searching for the "other" glove, it's always somewhere in the the bed, or under the bed or beside the bed or even one time, it took 2 days to even find it but whatever.

You know how people say, you can tell the age of a person by looking at their hands... well, that motivated me to keep my hands in better shape- lots of lotion, sunscreen and by lubing my hands up and popping on the moisturizing gloves. After a couple nights sleep with your feet and hands being pampered, it sure does make a difference! The look and feel LIKE NEW!

Good Bargain too: about $6-$8 at Ulta. Target has them too.

BANGS

2011-02-01T19:47:00.001-08:00

I really love my bangs. They are not totally new but they have grown to the length that I really like best. They are long but not. Does that even make sense? Well, the most important part is that they are covering my eyebrows that need to be waxed and tweezed back to perfection. But since I am feeling too lazy and too cheap, that just isn't happening soon enough.

Getting bangs made me change my look a bit and even my attitude just a tad. I feel kinda hard ass with them. Not sure why, but I just do. Maybe b/c my hair is dark and how it frames my face. I feel like I might look like I give off the "Don't even THINK about messing with me- I've got bangs!" look. Uhhh, so yah. I like them, I love them- you should try some out, they grow back so it's a low risk investment. (FYI- I took a slew of pictures covering my face b/c I just wasn't feeling camera ready but I didn't look nearly as tough with hands over my face)

Curl.Life Spray Gel

2010-11-07T11:46:00.000-08:00

Those of you with wavy or curly hair need to try out Curl.Life Spray gel by Matrix. I have wavy hair on some days, curly hair on others and frizzy all the time unless I do something to help it out. Curl.Life doesn't just help, it fixes the problem. My other problem is that I don't usually wear my hair curly or wavy intentionally most days because the curls/waves end up sucking and looking like crap. BUT NOT ANYMORE! Curl.Life has really made my hair look so much better and frizz free. The curls literally have more life. Give it a try, all you pretty headed gals! It's about $17 for a smallish bottle but just a few sprays and you are good to go.

TJ's French Market Limeade

2010-08-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

I am not a Limeade drinker. I don't even really like limes unless they are in my Bacardi & Diet Cokes but for some magical and sparkly reason Trader Joe's French Market Limeade is my drink this summer. I even drink it without vodka sometimes so you know, I must really like it. It has the perfect amount of bubbly and it's not overly sugary. It's refreshing and crisp, therefore, I'm loving it. Drink up for under $4 a bottle, since we are on the topic of the bottle, it is a pretty bottle, I held onto it hoping to put some fresh flowers in it someday. Someone call Hoarders on me, we know I'll probably never get around to actually doing it.

Stella & Dot Jewelry

2010-08-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

I want to be Stella, I want to be Dot. Talk about amazing and beautiful jewelry that has something for everyone! A friend sent me an email introducing me to Stella & Dot, I fell in love the minute my eyes first saw the jewelry, so much that I am now an independent stylist and selling it too. I can wear the most boring outfit in the world and throw on any Stella & Dot jewelry and look instantly refreshed and completely presentable. From bold and funky to simple and classic- they have it all. I can introduce you to more, just say the words and I'll coming running to show my goods- the jewelry that is. Check out my online boutique too: www.stelladot.com/phxnadia

FarmVille

2010-01-16T11:27:00.001-08:00

I wish I had a better reason for not blogging. The birthday season hit, holidays and then FARMVILLE. Yes, people- I have fallen into the FarmVille love. Of course, a bit late, because I was AVOIDING it-- knowing it just "was not my thing", until I accepted a neighbor request (this is FV lingo).

I am hooked like a junkie. I am plotting and planning my day around when my harvest is ready, it is true. I am a full blown DORK and I love it!

Thanks to my pal, Julie, who told me I would really enjoy it, she has turned me into this... this... this mess that I have become via Facebook. I woke up early the other day because I knew my artichokes were ready to be harvested. I can't get up early typically unless there is a fire in the house or maybe an earthquake.

So here I am admitting my new addiction that is FREE, all you need is a Facebook account and PLEASE, if you join, Be My Neighbor. Gotta go, the raspberries are ready!!

L'Occitane Green Tea Eau de Toilette

2009-11-03T22:25:00.000-08:00

"ooh, you smell good"-- this is what you will hear when you wear L'Occitane Green Tea. It is my everyday smell. I only wear 3 total smells, but this one is my constant. It really does smell good on everyone, have not met a single person yet who doesn't like it.

My friend, Rachel introduced me to it years ago and I can't stop loving it.

Think Clean

Think Crisp

Think Fresh

Cruelty Free brand too. All for just under $50 at L'Occitane en Provence.

Candy Cane Lane Celestial Seasonings Tea

2009-10-29T22:16:00.000-07:00

Peppermint Tea is quite divine, but Candy Cane Lane Green Tea is beyond divine. It is a peppermint tea with a hint of vanilla and other spices that give it a special touch. I've decided that anything "holiday" themed is a favorite thing of mine. It's perfect for a chilly night and if you have a bit of a stuffed up nose, it sure helps you breathe easily again. Plus, look at the box? It's got little polar bears in aprons with candy canes. Who can resist that? $3 at your local grocer.

Jeffrey Campbell Haley Flats

2009-10-27T22:55:00.001-07:00

It's that time of year when toes get covered up and it's time to wear some cute flats with jeans. I finally threw out (can't donate them, these kicks have been around the mall one too many times) my stand by black flats and upgraded to these adorable ones by Jeffrey Campbell. I love them. I feel like I am playing dress up in these shoes.

They are just sooo cute! Must have for this season. $100 Nordies

Nature's Gate Toothpaste

2009-09-25T18:15:00.001-07:00

In my quest for Cruelty-Free product use only, I have been scared to actually switch my toothpaste. I've been a Crest user all my life and to make the switch now seemed almost CRAZY. I finally bought a cruelty-free toothpaste after asking people and searching the web. I not only bought it and used it, but I love it. Nature's Gate spearmint paste is really refreshing. I like the packaging too. Something about the simplicity of it all. So far it works, (well... someone, be a pal and please tell me if it isn't.)

It's a bit more than my normal paste but, I am willing to spend the extra money if I know an animal didn't have to suffer so I could have clean teeth.

Found this at Sprouts on sale for $3.99

Surgi Honey Wax Face Strips

2009-09-25T18:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, I did it. I am announcing to my solid 10 readers that I love Surgi Honey Wax Face Strips. I'm not gonna lie. My lip needs to be waxed, I blame the Italian genes. Eyebrows too but I leave those to the pros. The lip, it's easy-- just take it all off. These strips are so easy.... so while I am getting ready in the morning, I notice a 'stache, I can just quickly take care of it with these easy no heat strips. The ol' microwave doesn't need to be used and it saves so much time.

Simply rub the 2 strips in the palms of your hands to warm them up a bit, pull them apart and you have two strips, one for each side. Pop them on and voila-- no 'stache. Easy. Maybe a little tweezer here or that to make sure it's all good and you are done.

About $7, and you can be all- women for the day.

Velvet-Like Hangers

2009-09-22T21:00:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you, but I know for me- personally, if my clothes make it on a hanger-- they better stay on the hanger! It's enough of a chore getting laundry done but then actually putting the clothes away-- sheesh! That's why these hangers are so important to me. Too often, I see clothes that have slid off the hangers and end up on the floor. This is not okay.

This is why you need these wanna-be velvet hangers, they grab the clothing a bit so they do not slide off--- even those wide necked tops stay.

For Real. Invest in at least 50 of them for only $15 at Costco.

Pottery Barn Grand Phone

2009-08-22T15:00:00.001-07:00

Ring Ring!

It may be a tele-marketer but it sure is fun to answer this Party Barn phone. And it makes saying, "No thanks, not interested" feel pretty cool.

Not many people have home phones anymore but if you are in the market for a new one... this should be it! It feels heavy and durable, so even if the home phone never rings, it could be used as a weapon as well. Let's hope you never need to.... but you never know.

One time I even made an out-going call from it! I prefer the black one. $59

Trader Joe's Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-07-29T21:00:00.001-07:00

The #1 reason I wanted a kitchen mixer was to make chocolate chip cookies by the dozens. And that is fine for the first couple of cookie sheets until I get bored with cookie baking and decide to just make one giant cookie because I want to be done with them. This, as you know turns into burnt outer edge of giant cookie and raw center. We eat it anyway of course but you know, not the the particular vision I had for my cookie baking extravaganza!

Then I found out about the Trader Joe's Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. I don't make them by the dozens anymore, but by the 16s because that is how many come in a box!

They are so so so so DELICIOUS! My own homemade cookies do not compare to the TJ ones. It's embarrassing to tell you this, but the TJ ones actually taste better than YOURS too.

Oh and I don't have to really clean anything once done, just the cookie sheet. They are frozen and you literally, plop them on the sheet, cook for 15 minutes and then done. So simple and so delicious and so worth $4.59. Find them in the frozen section at Trader Joe's, the yummiest section in the whole store!

Zinnia Shower Curtain

2009-07-25T10:08:00.001-07:00

Something about shower curtains that make me excited. I think it is the fact that you can pretty much make-over your bathroom based on a shower curtain. This one from Garnet Hill is so happy and cheery-- full of color! I just bought it and will say that when I look at it I smile. Thankfully it matches all our towels already and an entire bathroom re-vamp isn't need.

Who knew that a simple curtain could put a smile on this girl's face so easily! I purchased it online and I'm not a big "online" shopper since I like roaming around stores wasting my day away, touching and feeling and smelling items. Yes, smelling. Have you ever bought something and realized it smells funny and then you hate it? Well, I have and it's no fun.

This smells fine, looks perfect in the bathroom and therefore, is blogable! $45 on garnethill.com

(is blogable a word?)

Red Hot Chicago Dogs

2009-07-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!

In honor of this lovely holiday, I am sharing with you, my all time favorite HOT DOG! RED HOT CHICAGO-- they are truly the best tasting hot dogs in the world. I happened to find them b/c of my old job, the catering manager ordered them wholesale for the club and I was able to enjoy RED HOTS on a regular basis back then.

Now, I do not know where to buy them unless you buy them wholesale or fly out to Chicago and eat in their restaurant. Anyhow, I love a good dog, but this one is beyond good, it's OUT OF THIS WORLD! Have a lovely 4th and God Bless America.

Yoga Toes

2009-06-27T10:39:00.001-07:00

What a silly product! What an amazing product! I had a day where I stood for 6 hours straight and it involved pushing/pulling dollies and loading my car up and setting a trade show booth up for work.

My feet were literally throbbing by the time I got home.

After my husband's sad attempt of a foot massage (sorry, babe, but that massage sucked, you know it), I busted out my yoga toes! And I am glad I did, within 15 minutes of wearing them, my feet felt almost back to normal. I put them back on an hour later and my feet were completely back to normal. This was of course a better alternative to sawing my feet off completely. I was contemplating doing that because I thought that might actually feel better.

I was introduced to Yoga Toes by my friend, Nicole, who told me she loves hers. So I went out to Bed Bath and Beyond and bought them for $10. What a wonderful investment! Thanks, Nicole!

Downy Wrinkle Releaser

2009-06-21T11:27:00.001-07:00

Ironing? What's ironing? Before we got married, my fiance asked me if I will be washing and ironing his work shirts or if he needs to continue bringing them to the cleaner. After I was done laughing, I informed him that I don't know how to sew buttons or iron.

He still married me and I keep an ample supply of Downy Wrinkle Releaser around for my pretend ironing when needed. Work shirts still go to the pros but there are a few times a week I need to spray some of this on a shirt or two just to get them looking a bit more crisp (especially if the shirt I plan to wear is wadded up in a ball in the corner). Wrinkle Releaser is worth the $4.89. Anything that makes me not have to iron is worth any amount.

Wasabi Peas

2009-06-20T21:51:00.001-07:00

SNACK TIME! I love me some wasabi peas for a snack. Specifically, the Trader Joes brand is the most delicious that I have tried. Now, some people love these and some people hate them. My husband can't stand them but that's fine by me because that means he won't eat my snack-- it's all for me! I have made the mistake of putting too many of them in my mouth at the same time and ended up with a fiery nose and tears pouring down my face, but that was my fault for not eating them slowly and one by one. I like to bring these to the movie theater with me so I won't buy popcorn. Often times I still buy the popcorn but whatever, Can't blame me for "trying".

Mad Men DVD Season 1

2009-06-16T17:10:00.001-07:00

IF you do not watch Mad Men already, then you are really missing out on some good television. I heard about Mad Men and saw that Season 1 got 6 emmys and yadda yadda tadda. I finally watched and I am hooked, like CRazY hooked. Season 1 is available until mid July on ON DEMAND (Cox).

Setting: 1960's advertising agency. Think the good ol' days until you watch and realize, "those are ol' days, but not so good." Smoking is about at prevalent as breathing, alcohol is water and even the goody goodies are cheating on the wives.

I like the outfits and the old school education. Kids riding in cars w/out seat belts and playing with plastic bags on their heads was normal. Women sit at home and cook, smoke, drink, and have babies- all at the same time. It's comical!

MaryJane Socks for BABY!

2009-06-09T12:08:00.001-07:00

I mean seriously, look at these ADORABLE MaryJane socks for a baby girl. This is the perfect gift for a baby who has everything already! They are delightfully funny and really cute. Next baby girl born I know gets a pair, depending if I have $25 to spend on a pair of socks that a baby will out-grown in a few months. Totally worth it right?

Watermelon

2009-06-06T00:33:00.001-07:00

I can not get enough watermelon in my system this season. Why must it taste so good. Thank goodness it is a fruit and not a starch.

So, I am gonna guess, you all know what a watermelon is and I won't have to go into any detail. Here is my one gripe about them, they are so heavy. So buying one is very fun until you come home from the grocer and you need to bring it into the house. I am one of those people that likes to carry every-single grocery bag in one trip from car to house (minus Costco trips).

Anyhow, the w-melon just ruins that whole game for me-- it's almost impossible! I tried once and dropped the green melon of love and it split. It happened in slow motion and for some reason afterwards, I was so glad that I don't have kids. Do you think I'll play this one trip from car to house game if I had kids in tow? Let's hope NOT!

Those glass containers I posted earlier are perfect for cutting up 1/2 a melon and putting it in containers so I (errr, WE- meaning you and me) can munch on it at home or bring it to work with me.

Seedless melons are on sale right now and in season across the nation for about $4.50 each, give or take a few cents.

Kate Spade Agenda

2009-05-30T12:56:00.001-07:00

I am old school when it comes to agendas/calendars. I don't use my outlook calendar or my Blackberry calendar or my mac calendar. I use a traditional agenda book still. For work I use the cheezy work logoed one but for my personal life, I use this beautiful Kate Spade agenda. Here is what I like best about it.

1. The shape, it is a square, and squares are cool, unless you act like a square and you probably aren't if you are reading this.

2. It's pretty to look at and to touch. I like when things feel as nice as they look. This agenda is both.

3. The inside pages have enough space to write and a whole week on a 2 page spread.

The best part about agendas is that you can flip thru the pages and see all the fun stuff, crappy stuff and forced stuff you did all year long. It's like a diary, but not. Because it's an agenda and it says so on the front.

I don't even know if they still sell these, but if they do, they run approx $50

GLASS food storage containers

2009-05-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

Bye Bye carcinogen plastic tupperware and food storage of the like!

Let me tell you about these glass food storage containers, they are so awesome for left-overs and then micro-waving in them without the lid and just eating directly out of it as well. I have the round ones and the rectangle ones-- they are all different sizes and really meet my needs. They can meet yours too!

I got compliments on them at work- WHO else can say that? HUH? WHO? only those with cool frickin' containers like this.

Just go get some, you'll be happy you did. They are like $20 at Crate and Barrel.

Toothpaste Squeezit

2009-04-29T21:15:00.001-07:00

I knew this invention existed, it just took me a while to buy it and then took even longer to actually use it. One more day without this handy dandy toothpaste squeezit and I would have not lived a full-filled life. I know so dramatic, but this thing is so cool--- it makes the toothpaste tube look neat and tidy.

There are 2 in a pack, so there is one for me the devoted Crest user (I only like Crest and will only use Crest) and one for my husband (he uses the cheap shit I buy him on sale). So, 2 Squeezits for $2.69 at Bed, Bath and Beyond. It's brilliant.

Cole Haan Nike Air Peeptoes

2009-04-26T20:34:00.001-07:00

Do you remember those commercials in the 80's when the ladies were wearing pumps running up and down a basketball court to the song, "looks like a pump, feels like a sneaker?"

They have no clue. NO CLUE. what they were talking about because these bad boys right here.... Cole Haan and Nike together, did not exist.

So this shoe right here says it all AND they are really cute. Comfy.

I hear people whine about feet in heels all day-- this shoes right here is all you need. HONESTLY. They are a bit pricey but you can buy these in black and brown for about $600 and then you wouldn't need to buy very many other shoes (of course, I buy these and about 50 others) but I think buying shoes is like paying the water bill- a necessity to life. BUT- If I could and only wanted to buy 2 pairs of shoes, I would buy these in black and brown. THANK GOODNESS that isn't the case but IF IT WERE-- I stick to my word on this.

Blackberry

2009-04-17T16:07:00.001-07:00

My Blackberry is one of my F-A-V-O-R-I-T-E things ever. I do not know how the world functioned before cell phones, even though, my first cell phone I had for a year before it was turned "on" for longer than 4 minutes. It was only for emergencies. For if I was being held at gunpoint, I could quickly pull it out of my glove-box and wait the 2 minutes it took back then to POWER-UP and then dial 911. Or when I would pretend to be on it so I looked powerful and important. Those were fun days. Young & Dumb.

And now, I can't imagine life with out my coveted Blackberry ( I will not call it that name of crackberry b/c I already referred to Cadbury mini eggs as crack so I just can't do that here, plus the ol' crackberry line is so 2008). I mean, this thing is pretty amazing. It doesn't make me look powerful and important like cell phones did back when only VIPs had them but it does entertain me when needed. Facebook, the games, texting, emailing, all that jazz sure can hold you over when waiting in a really long line somewhere. Or when I am sitting on the couch and too lazy to use the computer, my Blackberry is always there.

Cadbury Mini Eggs

2009-04-16T20:35:00.001-07:00

I am not a candy person. I am more of a salt person. So when I say Cadbury Mini Eggs are one of my favorite things, then you know these things must be REALLY good.

I don't know what they (aka: Hershey) puts in these things, well, I do know actually b/c I read the ingredient list, but I didn't see CRACK as an actual ingredient but the effects are just the same.

These eggs make me want MORE MORE MORE. It's like an M&M on steroids. The crispy candy thin outer shell, then you bite in and the milk chocolate is dense but perfect in all it's glory.

Oh, Cadbury Mini Eggs, you are the best part about commercializing Easter.

Real Housewives of NYC

2009-04-15T22:31:00.000-07:00

If you don't watch Real Housewives of NYC already, then you are MISSING OUT on some serious. serious. serious. entertainment.

I don't even know where to begin with this.

It's like train-wreck city right before your very eyes. As annoying and silly and catty and petty as they are, they will grow on you. I have a favorite. Jill. and then Bethenny. No, that is not a typo, that is how she spells her name. Bethenny.

Anyhow, you gotta catch in on BRAVO! They have a whole Housewives series, but this NYC one is just comical and entertaining.

Rimmel Eye Make-Up Remover

2009-03-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

I used to buy eye make-up remover from the department store, thinking it was going to be the best. I was WRONG. Rimmel Eye Make-Up Remover is in my opinion the best and I can buy it at any Walgreens or Target for about a fraction of the cost of the department store remover. Time to tighten the budget and time to get yourself Rimmel. Try it, if you don't like it, you can give the bottle to me and I'll use it-- hey-- I'll even give you your $6 back.

Dutch Oven

2009-03-07T11:19:00.001-08:00

I am speaking about the kind you use in the kitchen (sickos). I become recently re-obsessed with my dutch oven, I like to just throw whatever in there to make some kind of stew or soup and let it slow cook for a few hours. I don't think enough people own dutch ovens. You need one, he needs one, she needs one. GO BUY ONE! It's great- the prices range, a decent one should run you a bit over $100.

Stila Brush #15

2009-02-03T19:21:00.001-08:00

Brush #15 is the ultimate eye shadow brush, it is for applying the shadow and the smaller part is for the crease.

#15 really should be called #1, b/c it is a NECESSITY for eye shadow. Other brands don't compare when it comes to the brush.

For example, your bright blue color is applied with the bigger side and then the magenta is applied with the smaller side so you can really get in that crease area for a flawless and beautiful look!

$35

JOIN A BOWLING LEAGUE!

2009-01-14T16:44:00.000-08:00

I joined a bowling league. I am not an avid bowler either but I joined a league because it sounded fun. It was thru friends. It's a gay bowling league so it's even more fun than just a plain ol' regular bowling league. Our team name is Rated R so I won't share and we drink and bowl. It's FABI!

I dress just like the picture here too and I bowl and average of 110-- the worst bowler on the league and I don't care-- I have fun! You can join one also, prices range but mine is $16/week and it goes for 26 weeks. Oh and like another $20 to register with nationals. This it totally legit, I am a card carrying bowler. Don't mess with me.

I even bought shoes. Now I just need a Hello Kitty ball.

Love Actually Movie

2008-11-30T21:49:00.001-08:00

Love Actually is one of my absolute VERY favorite movies. I don't own a lot of DVDs, I own only a few and Love Actually is the chosen one. It's quite perfect for the holidays as well as for a good 4th of July movie. It's brilliantly funny, witty and has an outstanding cast.

The soundtrack is fabu too and I own that as well. It's on this time of year on all those Christmas movie channels that play Christmas movies all night long so you can catch it there or you can buy it for as little as $5 at Target too.

Trader Joe's Pumpkin Butter

2008-11-30T19:23:00.001-08:00

Pumpkin Butter is available year round at Trader Joe's but for some reason I associate it with the holidays so that is when I buy it. This last trip, I purchased 3 jars. A little bit goes a long way. I can't even explain how delicious it is but all I can say is that you need to buy some. It's sweet but not too sweet. It's perfect on toast, english muffins, and I love mixing it with Ricotta cheese. I might transfer it to an unmarked jar and give it away as gifts and make people think I slaved over it. ha.

For less than $4-- you can taste the season.

Glass Magic Dishwasher Booster

2008-11-30T15:14:00.001-08:00

okay, I am officially old. I had a serious MELT DOWN awhile back about spots on the glassware and eating utensils after they came of the dishwasher. We even had someone come out and make sure our dishwasher was working properly, we had someone come out and price quote us for a water softener. Apparently, the washer works fine and the water softener unit would cost us thousands.... so what does a girl do?!!

I'll tell you what she does, She buys Glass Magic!! It is truly MAGICAL, people! Our stuff came out looking brand new and perfect! YEAH FOR GLASS MAGIC! All you do is put 1/2 cup of this stuff on the bottom of your washer and fill with your normal detergent and make sure you have jet dry in the jet dry holder.

I had to buy it on amazon. It's about $4 a box, I bought 3 since you have to pay for ship and handle. I think I am going to buy a case next time.

The Hotel Cafe Presents Winter Songs CD

2008-11-30T15:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Music is one of my very favorite things about the holiday season. I recently have found this awesome CD, The Hotel Cafe presents WINTER SONGS. It is a CD filled with just that-- WINTER SONGS! Not cheezy "ho ho ho, jolly oh, dooo deee bop" music-- more just wintery sounding cool tunes.

I found it on itunes, I also saw the CD available at Target Boutique.

Only $9.99 and you can listen to some decent holiday sounds without screaming, "five goldennnnnnnnn rings."

Hello Kitty Kitty

2008-11-03T20:59:00.000-08:00

HA!!!!!!!!!!! I was on the search for the perfect Hello Kitty ADULT costume but all I could find where ones for kids (maybe this is a sign) or for actual kittys. I need this costume. I must have it. Unforts, there isn't any other info about this kitty costume. This will be my next "project"-- to track this kitty costume down and of course find one for myself for next Halloween. If only my head were smaller, I could just buy the cat costume and wear that. oh well.

Coffee-mate Peppermint Mocha Creamer

2008-10-30T21:40:00.001-07:00

It's baaaaaaaaaaaaaaack! YES!

Coffee-mate Peppermint Mocha coffee creamer is pretty much the only reason I exist. Okay, that's a bit dramatic. But it is ONE of the reasons I exist.

I can't wait to wake up tomorrow morning and add some to my coffee!!

If you are a flavored creamer fan, you mUst (put the U is must) go buy some right now. If you are smart (like me) you'll buy it in bulk after the season too b/c it stays good for quite some time (about 2-3 months) you can enjoy it well into spring too!

Wake Up and Drink Up! (There are 2 liquids that make me want to get out of bed, coffee and bloody marys.)

Ranges between $3-$6 depending on the size and what you local grocer with the club card sales and coupons.

Dreamfields Pasta

2008-10-26T19:01:00.001-07:00

What is an Italian girl supposed to do when the entire world has nothing to say about pasta except that it will make you fat? I'll tell you what I say, "I'M NOT FAT, I'M BIG BONED!" But since when I grocery shop, I have little demons in my head telling me that pasta makes me fat, I found DREAMFIELDS PASTA. It is a low carb pasta (actually, I have no flippin clue how this works b/c it has the same amount of carbs but it's DIGESTABLE carbs- whatever the heck that means.) It's good, I eat lots of it and I am still big boned. What now? ay?

The Garlic Twist

2008-10-19T00:12:00.001-07:00

The Garlic Twist is one of those kitchen tools that I actually use. Like for real, I really use this one. I don't really use the other 2 drawers filled with kitchen stuff, but The Garlic Twist is great. You simply place the peeled garlic pieces in the container, place the top on it and twist it a few times. VOILA! Minced garlic in a matter of seconds. Then you just throw it in the dish washer and you are good to go.

She comes in red, white or clear. I have the red one. $15.00

Clinton Kelly

2008-10-18T13:00:00.001-07:00

Clinton Kelly from TLC's What Not To Wear is FABULOUS! SO fabulous that he has a new book out called "Freaking Fabulous". I suggest you thumb thru it, it has some of the best fashion tips ever. Not only fashion but just tips in life... how to decorate, eat, behave and just "be". I don't want to gloat or anything here but I did get to meet him in person this past Friday night and he told me my jacket was great. I started sweating. I then posed for a photo of him where I look like an amazon next to his body but that's my own personal issue. I want him to move in with me. I have 2 extra bedrooms, he can have both of them and I'll cook his dinner every night. I wonder if he would agree to this?

The Glass Castle

2008-10-11T00:45:00.001-07:00

My friend told me about this book, The Glass Castle, by Jeannette Walls. It is a really great book. I had a hard time putting it down and wanted to stay up 'til all hours of the night (even on school nights!) to keep reading. And for you people that say, "I don't even have time to brush my hair, let alone read a book!" Let me tell you, "Boy, you are missing out and Boy, your hair looks like crap!" Make the time and start reading, it gets you hooked within the first 5 pages. If you disagree, I'll argue with you about it.

Healthy & Delicious Food

2008-09-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

Tomatoes

Mozzarella

Fresh Basil

Olive Oil

Salt & Pepper

That's it. It the most simple thing you could possibly make besides boiling water. And what kind of snack is boiling water? I guess you could throw a cigarette in there and make it "a runway model's snack" the day before fashion week. My friend has an herb garden and gave me the basil. It smelled heavenly, I almost didn't want to eat them, but just sniff them.

This can be duplicated for about $7 unless my friend gives you some basil, then it's even cheaper.

Gold-tone Ceramic Vase

2008-09-19T23:14:00.001-07:00

It looks better in person, I promise. I found 2 of these uber chic and pretty cool vases at Target. In a mad rush to put the finishing touches on our home before our Open House/housewarming party I found this vase in a small and large. They are prefect by the fireplace together. They offer just the right amount of visual interest and color the room needed. My whole point of going to Target was to pick up a new Welcome mat and instead I came home with about $147 worth of STUFF. These 2 vases being part of the quickie shopping trip.

Large is $45 and small is $30

Kate Spade China

2008-09-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

Soooooooooooo... I didn't want china on my wedding registry. NOPE, not doing china, I am NOT into china. UNTIL............ I found THIS china. Soon I was singing a different tune. I NEED THIS CHINA, I MUST HAVE THIS CHINA. I WANT THIS CHINA. And let me tell ya, people LOVE to buy you china when you are getting married. So here it is in all it's glory. THE CHINA. Isn't she pretty? So pretty that I hate to mess it all up with food and stuff. Kate Spade did me right with this pattern. It's cool, whimsical yet still simple enough.

Does this mean I have to make fancy dancy meal to serve on this china? Nah....

Hello Kitty

2008-09-05T22:20:00.001-07:00

Hello Kitty, Good-Bye paycheck!

If I could, I would spend my entire paycheck on Hello Kitty stuff. She is so cute. How can you not look at Hello Kitty and not want to cry? It's pretty easy to go nutso on HK stuff since now you can find her anywhere. From umbrellas to assault rifles, she is everywhere. But I like the traditional HK stuff-- this design posted above is the best. I almost put a HK toaster and rice cooker on my wedding registry but decided to just keep her out of my marriage. My husband is fine with the cutesy stuff here and there but a HK toaster on the counter could be a bit too much. Plus, I wouldn't want to actually use them because then I would get them dirty and Kitty doesn't roll that way. ( But what's my excuse now for not using my non HK kitchen appliances?)

I loved Hello Kitty since I was a little girl. I would hoard my HK pencils, stationary, tissues, erasers and stapler and never used them, in fact I still have many of them still unused. Someday.

Hello Kitty items range from $1.00 to $1,000,000,000.00, so take that however you like.

If my husband reads this blog this picture is for him, my birthday is Dec. 10th or Christmas, whatever. Just saying.

CO Bigelow Lip Gloss

2008-09-02T21:32:00.000-07:00

Pucker up, Ladies! Show off your pout with CO Bigelow's lip gloss. It'll make any face bee-utiful. The minty ones are the best because they not only are lip glosses BUT hello! breath savers as well. Since most gloss ends up in your mouth anyway, shouldn't it taste great and freshen your breath?

There are tinted ones as well that are pretty gosh darn fabu. I buy them in bulk when they go on sale at Bath & Body Works. I have about 4 that rotate around in my various purses, a few at my desk, some in the pockets of my jeans in the wash right now, but I never leave them in my car in Phoenix because the heat will cause it to combust and then it's wasted-- and if you have good gloss like this, then you best not waste it. Leave your craptastic Vaseline tube in the 140 degree Phoenix car instead. Your lips will thank you.

$7.50 unless you get it on sale at Bath & Body Works for a bargain at $3 a piece.

Bumble and Bumble DOES IT ALL

2008-08-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

I like most Bumble and Bumble products, you will see other ones popping up later on as well, but DOES IT ALL deserves to be the first one. Because, it DOES IT ALL. Like for real. It's used to protect your hair when you apply heat.... so dry your hair spray a ton on and then style your hair with heat.... and VOILA-- it has done it all. It adds shine, body, makes hair more manageable, helps keep hold bust isn't hairspray. You can just keep spraying it on and your hair isn't crunchy or sticky. It's fabulous. My hair likes to just sit there and frizz out looking all blah and thin. It's sad. But DOES IT ALL really helps so do a bunch of other Bb products (I'll get to some of those later.)

My friend, Rachel introduced me to it and now I am hooked, like a junkie. I would write more but I have to go now and spray more of this stuff on my head.

25 smackers because it does it all.

Capiz Hanging Pendant

2008-08-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

Darling, you look better in dim lighting. Isn't that a nice thing to say to someone? Well, it's true. So if you want to look good and have a cool lamp-- this Capiz Hanging Pendant and Floor Lamp are the way to go.

There is something really chic looking about it. It's adds depth to a room and a bit of pizazz. And did I mention the dim lighting is easy on the eyes.

It was a good find at Cost Plus World Market. Kinda funny that they call it World Market when it should be China Market. I think that is probably where all the merchandise is mass produced (well, this isn't a fact, but it seems this way). Just don't chew on the lamp and you should be free of lead based paints.

Pendant is $20 and floor lamp is $30.

Celebrity Gossip Mags

2008-08-25T22:38:00.001-07:00

It's a sick sick sick nasty habit. I am not talking about biting toe nails. I am talking about reading celebrity gossip rags. But it's so fun! OH MY GOD, SHE IS FAT! OH MY GOD, SHE IS TOO SKINNY! OH MY GOD, HE IS DATING HER? What the hell is my problem? Why do I care? I don't care. Or do I care? I don't know anymore but I do know that I do not like Angelina J. Pitt and I am confused as to why Lauren Conrad is famous.

It's so easy to get lost in these rags. I have a "system" to reading them. FIrst I flip thru just looking at pictures and quickly scanning the tag lines. Then the next time I go thru it, I read the short write ups, nothing that takes me longer than 4 minutes to read. The the final read is when I read the long stories, those are the ones that take about 6 minutes to read and you get to follow some flowchart thing to see how the story evolved.

The cost on this is about $4- $25 a week, depending on your habit. I have a subscription to US Weekly (it was a gift) and I enjoy knowing that it will be delivered weekly into my hot little hands. Didn't you hear? Enquiring minds want to know!

LaTortilla Factory Low Carb Torts

2008-08-25T18:33:00.001-07:00

In case you don't know me... I like to Low Carb it every so often usually before special events like weddings and trips. I am not sure why I bother because I always gain back what I lost. ALWAYS.

LaTortilla Factory makes it easy to Low Carb though. These torts taste great and they are really soft and just yummy. Now, you can't compare it to a REAL tortilla, that's like comparing chuck roast to a filet. Just not the same. But if you need to take off a few lbs and de-pudgify and go the low carb route, you'll enjoy these tortillas. You know, when you low carb, you enjoy eating low carb styrofoam also. Anything that isn't a meat, cheese or vegetable is a nice change.

$3.79 a package

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Bronzer

2008-08-23T19:35:00.000-07:00

The Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Bronzer is FABULOUS! It has the right amount of shimmer so you don't look like a 6 year old in her dance recital. It is best when applied in an upsweep motion under the apples of your cheeks. This then gives the illusion of a shadowed area under your cheekbones so they really pop! You can have that gaunt look and still eat your burgers and fries!

Bobbi Brown has multiple shimmer brick shades. They range from bronzers to browns to pinks.

It runs about $25 and lasts for a long time, I think it lasts me over a year. I hope to see you out there shimmering the night and day away soon!

Windex Multi-Surface (Yellow Liquid) Cleaner

2008-08-23T16:04:00.001-07:00

Before I get into the Windex Antibacterial Multi-Surface cleaner, I want to say that I also use Method products. I understand Method products will not only save the earth but will also save babies from burning buildings and solve our Nation's economic problems. So, you Method lovers out there, please don't judge me.

With that being said, this Windex rocks! Like big time rocks. It smells so good I want to spray it all over my body when I am done cleaning the stove, countertops, mirrors, appliances. It doesn't just smell good while you are cleaning, the smell lingers for awhile so about 30 mins after you are done using it and your hubby doesn't believe that you actually got up and cleaned something, you have the smell to prove it (oh, this works vice versa).

I like that it is one same product to clean counters, glass and mirrors-- hence the whole "multi-surface" on the label. So if I use it in the powder room, I don't have to use 2 different products for the counters and mirror. It's just easy and I need easy for when I actually clean. A good way to spend $3.69.

BR Suit Jacket

2008-08-23T09:09:00.001-07:00

No, I do not own the young lady on the right. I own the JACKET though. It is on sale right now at Banana Republic, I am not certain how many are actually left BUT the whole "idea" of this suit jacket is my favorite.

I don't know about you, but when I wear suit jackets, I tend to look more like a line-backer, not a business woman. I try looking for suits about 2 times a year and try on about 15 different suits only to walk away shaking my head and thinking, wish I could get paid like a line-backer in the NFL.

So, I began accepting the fact that my nice black pants would do just fine and be done with it. Then she, I mean the jacket popped up on my computer screen while playing on the Banana Republic website. It is the perfect suit jacket for my black pants. The short sleeves are also perfect since in Phoenix winter you don't really need long sleeves anyway~ because we BBQ on Christmas Day and have our a/c on until November. And I think I can pair it with dark denim as well. I am happy. You can be too, for under $80.

Gucci Sunglasses

2008-08-22T21:48:00.001-07:00

These are my signature shades. I love them. I think I lose them about once a week and call grocery stores, libraries and restaurants all over town asking if they found my sunglasses on a regular basis. Then I get sad that I lost them and end up finding them either in my car, in my purse (with the other gazilion "lost" items) or on my head.

They are hugely oversized and most people probably couldn't wear them because their faces aren't as large pizza sized as mine is. What is a large pizza? 18 inches? Anyhow... They are classic and stylish and when I have on my $10 target yoga pants and tattered t-shirt, I feel like a super-model (well, kinda). Gucci has oodles of great sunglasses for all face sizes that are just as great as these.

Available for the bargain price of $275 (or have your significant other buy them for because then they are free!)

Whirly Pop

2008-08-22T21:25:00.001-07:00

Have you seen anything like this before? It's a Whirly Pop Popcorn Maker. It makes popcorn taste like REAL popcorn. Not the microwaved crap you've been eating all this time. That isn't real popcorn. THIS is real popcorn.

All it takes is about 5 mins. You put the packages in the popper on medium heat turn the handle, get all excited while you hear the popcorn popping and when the handle is tough to turn, that means it's done. Sometimes when you can't hear it popping anymore, that means it's done too.

Put it in a giant bowl and eat it all by yourself. If someone wants some too, you could share or you could tell him or her to go make some for them-self.

**One minor problem is that cleaning it is a bit of a pain, but if you don't share yours and make the other person make it them-self, they have to clean up since they touched it last. Rules are rules.

about $30

Sharpie PEN (not marker)

2008-08-22T20:28:00.001-07:00

Dear Diary,

My obsession with writing with a Sharpie became even more obsessive when they came out with the fine point Sharpie. I thought I was in heaven, but there was one small problem. The ink always bled thru on the next sheet of paper. Darn you, Sharpie! But I was okay with it. I continue to rock the Sharpie Fine Point.

And then just the other day wandering around Walgreens, I came across one of the most brilliant ideas ever (yes, I know there are all sorts of great ideas out there that are far more brilliant, but AT THE TIME, it was the most brilliant idea ever). My eyes met with the SHARPIE PEN, the no bleed thru Sharpie Pen. My hand instinctively grabbed all 9 packages off the display and began screaming for my husband to "COME SEE WHAT I HAVE FOUND!" He was happy for me, in fact he was elated but I think still just doesn't get it. Does he not understand the IMPORTANCE of these pens? How my dream pen has come home to me?

I put back the 9 packages of 2 and decided to go with 2 packs of Black and 2 packs of Blue. This should hold me over for now. But as I sit here typing this out (oh, I wish I was writing this out because then I could be using my new pen), I think I really need to go back and buy more. What if they stop carrying them? What if they don't sell well and they discontinue them? What if? What if? What if?

xoxo,

$3.99/2 pack

Hollywood Fashion Tape

2008-08-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

Listen Up Ladies (and maybe Gents?) --- You may have nice t*ts, but your grandma, the shoe sales person, and the summer intern do NOT need to know this by actually seeing the girls. Your safety pin is not as well hidden as you think it is and for some flipping reason I can't find black safety pins so the silver is not so blatantly announcing that "Yes, indeed my shirt is revealing a part of me I don't want you to see."

This is why YOU, errr, WE NEED Hollywood Fashion Tape.

It is a double stick clear tape that is made to hold your clothes down in place so that you can flaunt the girls but don't need to smother the neighbors head in them. They come in all sorts of shapes to help you out, depending on your needs. Needs that you may not even realize that can be meet. The Skinny Strips are perfect for that pink slingback angle strap that seems to always slip off the back of your ankle. The Original size is great for helping keep your favorite work button down from getting you fired because you exposed your hot pink lace bra to the entire board room every-time you looked to the left.

So clean it up for less than $9, Ladies, because you are a Lady...... riiight?

here... read about them here: www.hollywoodfashiontape.com/products_red_carpet.cfm

you can buy them there too OR you can buy them at Bed Bath and Beyond and use one of the 6,214 20% off coupons they mail to your house and save yourself a few quarters.

Why am I doing this?

2008-08-22T18:39:00.000-07:00

So... I am asking myself WHY I am even starting this thing, this blog, this whatever it is. I mean I might be the only person in the whole wide world that ever looks at it but what's the big deal if that is the case? At least I will have all my favorite things cataloged in an organized fashion.

To be completely and brutally honest, I have some great stuff.

Stuff that ranges from .25 cents to $2500 (can someone tell me why the cent sign is not on a a keyboard?) and I am ready to show it off to you. Some are steals and some are deals and others are not-- but worth every red cent. So NOW you can appreciate my favorite things and make them yours too!

Oprah does her "Favorite Things" show each year and people all over the world screech and cry to get to be at this taping so they can take home all of the Media Queens fav items. It's comical and cool all at the same time. So now you don't have to claw your way into Harpo Studios, you can log in here and go buy great things for yourself instead of taking freebies. Not that I wouldn't oh, you know, say... MIND if I was at the Oprah taping collecting all my goodies and telling the story for the next 25 years about how "I WAS AT THE FAVORITE THINGS SHOW!!" (and had to sell half the stuff to cover the taxes on it).

Favorite Things can and should be something you get and enjoy everyday!