Kuhn Rikon Frosting Pen

I will admit that I’m not much of a baker. I have dreams of whipping up moist cakes and sugary-sweet homemade icing (wearing four-inch heels and a stylish wrap dress no less), but the reality is over-baked sweets and store-bought frosting. Time is precious, and I just can’t spend every weekend perfecting the red velvet cupcake or my favorite—the frosted sugar cookie! Thankfully, I discovered a new kitchen gadet that will make my store-bought treats look and taste just as good as home baked!

The Kuhn Rikon frosting pen is a clever little tool that lets you dress up store-bought and home-baked goodies like a professional. The pen gives you precise control as you write, border and create shapes on your cakes, cupcakes and cookies! Great for kids and adults, the pen has two speeds three to five tips, and two to three refillable frosting cartridges, depending on which SHOP.COM store you purchase it from. What I love about it is that you just write with it like you would a pen, and the frosting comes out smoothly and easily. That means fewer mistakes and less wasted frosting! I plan on using this handy gadget for customized Valentine’s Day cupcakes. I’ll draw little hearts or fun little sayings on each like those conversation heart candies!

I’ll probably use it with a simple can of Duncan Hines or Betty Crocker frosting, but feel free to mix up your very own. The pen uses two AA batteries. Just hand wash the unit when you’re done!

Hidden Message Collar Stays

In middle school, it was all about the dance. I’d shop at 5-7-9 for some satin or lace dress in red or pink. Gussied up in Bonnie Bell chapstick, my friends and I would wait near the bleachers until some “cool” boys would ask us to dance. We were waiting a long time.

I’m all grown up now, and I realize that Valentine’s Day isn’t about waiting around for your date to make the first move. It’s nice to find a silly, romantic gift to share with your loved one. For my husband, I’m thinking about these secret message collar stays. This set of 12 stays come with six each of two sizes, 2-1/2″ and 2-3/4″. They say cute things like “You’re so handsome,” “You make me laugh,” and “You keep me warm.” Bonus: they come all wrapped up in a black leather carrying case lined with red faux suede. Oo la la!

But lately, my brows have been looking rather sparse. As you age, brows thin out naturally, and my having already been thin, look as if they needed some serious plumping. So while I’ve been experimenting with different brow tools and colors, I noticed a happy accident: The more I fill in and accentuate my brows, the wider awake I look, sort of a makeup version of the brow lift. I’m now a big brow person, applying color and keeping the line looking plush, every morning.

Chanel Perfect Brows Kit, $65

My favorite brow kit is this goodie from Chanel. It comes with a tiny grooming brush to shape out brows (always brush upwards and away from the browbone, to give brows a boost and defined line).  The trio of shades let you customize the perfect match to your own brows and they actually stay put without any smudging or caking (typical of some brow pencils). And if you need to pluck a stray hair now and then (even I sometimes have to do this), it comes with a handy pair or tweezers too.

I also love this Revlon Brow Specialist kit. At $8.99 it’s a total steal, and includes a tweezer and three stencils to guide you towards the perfect brow shape. You fill in the color with pencil and finish with the styling gel which holds your beautiful revamped brow in place.

Superhero Foods.

Faster than a speeding bullet. More powerful than a locomotive. Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Superman? Almost. Turns out, antioxidants found in red wine or dark chocolate are just as powerful. The O2 Diet: The Cutting Edge Antioxidant-Based Program That Will Make You Healthy, Thin, and Beautiful by Keri Glassman, MS, RD, CDN is the  most down-to-earth eating plan I’ve seen in years. Instead of counting calories, carbs or fat, you focus on delicious, nutritious bites that rev your metabolism and fight aging. The diet is based on the ORAC scale, which measures how well a food protects against free radicals, the bad guys behind aging, many forms of cancer and heart disease. By choosing ORAC-packed foods like green tea, artichokes and strawberries, you could naturally shed unwanted pounds and take years off your face. Oh, and you’ll feel smarter and have loads more energy, too.

Eat all day and still lose weight!

Go ahead. Ruin your appetite on snacks. Because if you want to be more energetic, feel younger, and lose weight, you have to eat more. That is the advice from Keri Glassman’s other wonderbook and the basis for the program you’ll find in The Snack Factor Diet. Glassman reveals how snacking helps you keep your metabolism revved, maintain high energy levels, slow the aging process, put an end to hunger-related mood swings and eliminate sugar cravings.

This proven, groundbreaking diet includes an easy-to-follow menu plan and hundreds of intensely satisfying snacks for every craving like Sweet Chocolate Pudding, Banana Peanut “Ice Cream”, Salty Pizzettes or Prosciutto Wraps. You won’t feel like you’re on a diet at all.

Skinnygirl Dish

Bethenny Frankel, star of Bravo’s The Real Housewives of New York City, presents a healthful, no-nonsense approach to eating and cooking. Comparing food to a wardrobe, she advises readers to know what classics to have on hand. Then, she adds, accessorize with items like pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes. Frankel’s book is divided in three parts: the first (The Skinny) explains her methods and philosophy; the second includes recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks; and the third part offers tips for holidays and special occasions. Frankel teaches how to think like a chef, urging readers to use the ingredients they have in their own kitchens. In fact, the 60 recipes presented become more than 1,000 with the substitution charts Frankel provides.

Eat Right for Your Type
The gold standard when it comes to diet books and a weight-loss approach that actually makes sense. Noted doctor and author Peter D’Adamo reveals the individualized diet solution that works best for each individual. His research shows that one’s blood type reflects his or her internal chemistry, and he offers diet and exercise plans for each type.

Shop All Diet Books

Vera Wang Silk Red Draped Dress sale: $437

Ok, you may be balking at the $400+ price tag but this is a Vera Wang dress on sale that is originally $1200! Not to mention it’s made from pure silk and has gorgeous jeweled detailing on the shoulder. Totally worth it and you’ll WOW them on Feb 14th, whether you’re at a romantic dinner or a SAD (Singles Appreciation Day) party!

New York & Company Red Dress sale: $15.98!

Have you shopped at New York and Company lately? I am blown away by their styles and prices. Right now they’re having a huge 60% off clearance sale and I found tons of dresses — like the one above –as low as $16!

Calvin Klein Red Wrap Dress sale: $104!

There’s no shortage of gorgeous designer red dresses on sale too. I found both this Calvin Klein wrap dress and this BCBGMAXAZRIA dress on sale right now for around $100 each, what a steal!

BCBG Maxazria Red Dress

Plus Size Red Pencil Dress $34.95

I just discovered this new site called ChicStar. It’s a site that allows you to create your own fashions and others can vote on your designs. And they sell really cool, unique clothing too, very vintagey, rockabilly inspired clothing. I found this adorable 50s style pencil dress in PLUS SIZE!! I love it! AND it’s only $34.95…not bad at all.

Do you have a red hot dress to share that you’re coveting? Please share with us!

JLO and Scott Barnes in an About Face moment.

Wednesday night I had the pleasure of attending the star-studded launch of celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes’ new book, “About Face“.

Even if you’ve never heard of Scott Barnes, you’ve seen his work; he’s a whiz at making up the faces of Jennifer Lopez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Mariska Hargitay, and Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland for red carpet events and magazine spreads. He’s most famous for giving JLO her signature glow: a monochromatic look of bronzed skin and pale lips. That “lit from within” look spawned a makeup line and signature product, Body Bling, a tinted moisturizer that transforms pale skin into sun-kissed gorgeousness.

I made my way down to NYC’s Meatpacking District to Provocateur, a new club in the Hotel Gansevoort, and immediately was greeted by red carpet excitement. Countess LuAnn de Lesseps from NYC Real Housewives fame stepped out first, and then throughout the next hour, Judith Light from Ugly Betty,  Cheyenne Jackson from Third Rock, Kelly Rowland, Kat DeLuna, and finally Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony. What a scene inside–the club has a permanent catwalk installed in the center of the room with banquettes facing it along the perimeters. Outrageous made up models dress in black catsuits danced to mixes of Jennifer Lopez’s new single, “Louboutins” and Lady Gaga tunes, with images from Scott’s work projected on a big screen in the background.

Once past everyone’s entourage–there were a ton of security guards, handlers and scary looking bodyguards–I slinkered into a banquette, sipped on  Bombay cocktail called NY Easy (made with simple syrup, lemon juice, Bombay Sapphire and Club Soda), and took in the crowd. Fashionistas, magazine editors, photographers and NY’s glamazons,  roamed and from across the room, I spotted the dimiutive Christian Sirianno, past winner of Project Runway. While I didn’t get too close to JLO (her entourage was especially good at keeping her in a bubble) I could see that she looked gorgeous and glowing, of course, in a black strapless dress and four-inch Louboutins.

On the way out, I grabbed a goody bag (ok, my most favorite part of the evening. Who doesn’t love free stuff?) filled with Scott’s book, a full size tube of Body Bling,  makeup and spa gift certificates. As I went through the loot at the sushi bar next door–I was starving, and they didn’t serve one morsel of food, just heavy-duty cocktails– I determind one thing is for certain: Scott Barnes is a makeup artist in the the truest sense. His genius book gives you all his best tips and techniques, so that even if you’re makeup shy, you can look like a Hollywood star. I may not be stepping out on a red carpet anytime soon, but right now, I’m ready for my transformation.

Being a busy mom for whom every minute counts, the last thing I need to spend time on is my makeup. Now I’ve found a dream product that can help save time in front of the mirror. Stila’s all new One Step Makeup is a primer, foundation, concealer and powder all in product. Instead of 4 steps you just have one easy step! This skin-loving formula combines the benefits of four complexion-perfecting products with 100% natural mineral pigments to deliver one high performance, high definition, long wearing, luxurious formula. The medium coverage foundation is buildable and blendable and leaves skin looking flawless. One Step Makeup is energized with Stila’s Youth Revival Bio-available Mineral Complex - 15 ionically charged minerals that read and react to all your skins needs.  This little wonder not only shaves time off your routine, but it also diminishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles; minimizes pores; controls oil and hydrates and balances. It’s like a miracle in a bottle.

Shop all Stila Makeup Now

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. would have been 81 years old tomorrow were he still alive. While many of us may have a holiday on Monday to celebrate his life, few people know what to do to actually get in the spirit of the holiday to honor this great leader. Check online or your local paper for some great ways to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.  If  you don’t see any in your area, you can certainly make up your own! And don’t forget to check out the National Day of Service website at mlkday.gov.

Here are some ideas for celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday this year:

1. Watch a great documentary on Martin Luther King, Jr., the Civil Rights movement, or Black History. Personally, I like the A&E documentaries, and you can usually rent those from your local public library.

2. Say “no” to bad daytime TV with a Day of Service! Don’t stay home and vegetate — volunteer! The National Day of Service initiative has a great website dedicated to helping you find great activities to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and help your community. Go to mlkday.gov for more info!

3. Listen to his ingenious speeches. Few people have the power to move people with words the way Martin Luther King did. Listen to his famous speeches and feel the history captured in his words: The Great March to Freedom, The Great March on Washington, Free at Last, and others are great lessons in the power of eloquence to change history.

4. Throw a Southern style party! Rumor has it that Dr. King was a huge fan of pecan pie and Southern food in general. Get a great southern food cookbook like The All-New Southern Living Cookbook – it’s got virtually every Southern recipe you could ever dream of making!

Got any great ideas to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day? Please share!

While serveware was a big part of the presentation for the holiday season, now that the holidays are over, you can still serve your favorite dishes and treats in style all year long. Villeroy & Boch’s new Ethno Serveware offers an ultra modern way of serving up your culinary creations. This line is made of aluminum alloy material and is uniquely designed with a beautiful, artistic vibe.

Each of the pieces from this collection is made with a slanted, squared look which is fluid in appearance. The pieces are sleek in shape and modern in design and are a perfect presentation with any color or design of tableware.  An added feature of the Ethno Serveware is that it’s oven safe, up to 200 degrees  and is designed to retain heat with hot foods and keep cool foods chilled.  Now you can serve all your favorite dishes perfectly every time.

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On Good Morning America today, a renowned doctor talked about the benefits of Tumeric–how sprinkling this antioxidant-rich spice on foods helps quell inflammation and and protect your body from harmful free radicals that may cause cancer.  Topical antioxidants, like vitamin c, berries, and green tea, fight free radicals that damage skin, and tumeric is one scientists have looked at too. But it’s been difficult to incorporate this zesty Indian spice in to skincare; its orange color, lack of water solubility and sharp aroma don’t mix well with an elegant face formula. Recently, though, the scientists at P&G (the mega-giant personal care products company) have found a way to do it, and put the potent Tumeric antioxidants in their DDF Advanced Protocol skincare products.

While the entire line works to firm, tone and renew aging skin, the one product I’m zero-ing in on right now, is the Advanced Micro-Exfoliation Cleanser. The main ingredient–Rice Bran Wax–gently scrubs away impurities and dead skin cells, leaving behind hydrating moisturizers, the protective Tumeric complex and a gorgeous glow. You get radiant skin, and nourishing ingredients all in just one wash. Fresh start to the decade, alright!

American Weigh Scales AMW-QUANTUM Body Fat Scale

It’s the New Year and if you’re one of the millions out there resolving to lose weight in twenty ten – then you’ll want to get yourself a great scale to help you achieve your weight loss goals. We love the new Quantum Body Composition Scale from American Weigh. It allows you to view a complete breakdown of your body fat water muscle and bone. The scale works on the principle of BIA -Bio Impedance Analysis. By passing a safe electrical current through your body via the metal contacts and using weight, height and age data – you can calculate your lean/fat-free body mass. This is then subtracted from your body weight to obtain accurate body fat mass - giving you a predictable picture of your weight loss goals – making them a piece of cake to realize.

The Quantum Scale promotes the development of a positive self-image that grows stronger and healthier each time you step on the scale because of its accuracy. Staying positive and feeling good about your weight loss accomplishments is what is truly important in this New Year and beyond.

Shop Scales Now

Prescriptives was the first department store makeup brand I wore. I remember going to the counter and being told I belonged to  the Blue/Red cool tone color family. The rep whipped up a perfect match foundation right before my eyes. I was in beauty heaven–no more tossing and wasting too pale or too dark foundations that never worked. Their skincare line is miraculous too. For the last twenty years, my mom has been wearing  the Line Preventor serum (which had many incarnations and is now known as Super Line Preventor Extreme).  It actually smoothes lines instantly, and prevents lines and wrinkles from forming with its amazing antioxidant cocktail formula.  She swears by the stuff  and has minimal lines to prove it, so something must be working. 

Over the years, Prescriptives introduced innovative products that left other makeup brands scratching their heads saying, why didn’t we come up with that? Magic was the first makeup to use light reflecting particles.  Traceless is a skin responsive tint that “adjusts” the color to your skintone for natural coverage.  But as much as I love a genius product, Prescriptives holds an emotional bond for me as well. I loved Calyx, one of the best selling fragrances of all time, and its exotic, sparkling scent brings back a rush of college memories. Wandering the beauty counters looking for wedding makeup, I  bought an “Audrey Hepburn” inspired limited edition palette that helped me get the smoky, gorgeous doe-eyed bride look I was going for. I think I still have that palette back in a drawer somewhere, even though it’s been ten years since I used it. 

So in honor of the Prescriptives goodbye, I’m trying to buy up all the bestsellers I can. If you’ve never tried the brand, now is as good as time as any, or if you’re a fan, it’s not to late to stock up. I guess the old adage–all good things must come to an end–is certainly true here. Thanks Prescriptives, for the memories, and the pretty times we had together.

Emile Henry Flame Top 5.5 Quart

A spicy chili or warm soup is the perfect dinner for a cold winter’s day. It just heats you up and satisfies! I prefer cooking my favorite soup and chili recipes in my Emile Henry stewpot.  The natural clay allows slow even temperatures and the durable glaze makes this pot easy to clean following use.

Emile Henry’s cookware now now comes in a beautiful new Azure color, which is a rich Mediterranean blue. Flame-Top cookware is made of a flameproof ceramic that is much lighter, in fact 30%, than comparable enameled cast iron cookware, and yet it is a heavy duty, durable workhorse. It is microwave- and dishwasher-safe. It’s so durable that a cook can cut directly in the cookware —even with an electric knife without fear of scratching, chipping or cracking the surface. That’s usually a no-no on any kind of cookware.  Flame-Top goes under the broiler and directly from a freezer or refrigerator into a hot oven.

In terms of cooking performance, Flame-Top is ideal for braising, browning and slow cooking due to the gentle and steady heat distribution properties of Burgundy clay. The pots are also light enough so that they can be carried comfortably to the table even when full of food.

The styles available in the new Azure color are the 11-inch Brazier, the Large Roaster and four Round Stewpots: 2.6-qt, 4,2-qt . 5.5-qt and 7-qt sizes. Flame-Top cookware is made from all natural materials and is dishwasher safe. Emile Henry Flame-Top cookware carries a three-year guarantee.

As we usher in 2010, I’m ushering out all the dust and cobwebs of the previous year. For a really deep clean, I recently picked up some new eco-friendly clcean products from Martha Stewart. Called Clean, the solutions are 99% plant- and mineral-based, come recyclable packaging, and the line includes 10 environmentally friendly products for laundry, kitchen, bath and general cleaning needs.

The products, which would look great on any laundry room shelf thanks to pretty packaging, come with useful homekeeping tips and instructions to ensure that consumers can clean their home safely and effectively, without harming family members or pets.

You can find the products through SHOP.COM retailers, and  they are just now beginning to roll out into major retailers. Here are a few of my favorites:

Laundry Detergent

Martha Stewart Clean Laundry Detergent uses a powerful formula that removes stains and keeps colors looking new, leaving your clothing revitalized and brightened. Double concentrated (2x), one bottle of detergent is enough for 85 loads of laundry in both regular and High Efficiency (HE) machines—a built-in measuring pump means you won’t accidentally pour too much or spill. What’s more, Martha Stewart Clean Laundry Detergent is over 99% plant- and mineral-based, has no artificial colors or preservatives, and is free of SLS and skin irritants. It comes in a unique F-style bottle that is made of recyclable HDPE.

Carpet Stain Remover

Martha Stewart Clean Carpet Stain Remover removes stains from all carpets and rugs while protecting fibers and keeping colors bright, and it contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or strong chemicals.

Bathroom Cleaner

The plant- and mineral-based Martha Stewart Clean Bathroom Cleaner removes soap buildup and dirt, and it is safe for all bathroom surfaces. It comes in a recyclable clear plastic bottle with a transparent trigger spray nozzle.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Martha Stewart Clean Toilet Bowl Cleaner’s natural thickeners allow it to cling to vertical surfaces for effective cleaning and deodorizing. It removes hard water stains and contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or harmful chemicals.

Tree Storage
If you have a lot of storage area, and don’t want to go through the hassle of reassembling an artificial tree next year, just wrap it up fully assembled! This upright compression bag makes set-up and take-down faster and easier. The bag completely envelops the tree in heavy-duty fabric reducing breakage, harm and keeping it dust-free. Proper storage is essential for preserving the longevity of artificial trees and keeps them looking fresh and full for many seasons.

Kate Somerville Quench Hydrating Serum: Kate Somerville is this amazing facialist in LA who’s client list includes the who’s who of Hollywood. Her philosophy is simple–healthy skin and ageless beauty–and her products are nothing short of amazing. This serum goes on slick, but hydrates beautifully, leaving radiant, lustrous skin in its wake. Use it before your moisturizer and or after; it works double duty as a primer for foundation too, smoothing out an uneven texture.

Clinique Youth Surge Night Age Decelerating Night Moisturizer: A brand new cream that builds on the Youth Surge franchise with its groundbreaking sirtuin technology. This overnight cream combines enzymes and proteins that help repair, restore and boost natural collagen production. By the morning, your skin will look plumper, more hydrated and youthfully radiant. What more could you want from a  night’s sleep?

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Concealer: I’ve been using this all month and I love it. Not only does it conceal flaws, undereye circles and redness instantly, but it also stays put all day long–really, it does. It’s moisturizing and goes on easily with the attached wand, which means no extra brush, just use your ring finger to blend.

Each elegantly designed bottle of Godiva Liqueur is chocolate perfection with the perfect marriage of enticing flavors from around the world: Madagascar vanilla, espresso from Arabica coffee beans, exquisite caramel or velvety cream. Godiva liqueur is made with the same standards for excellence and quality as Godiva Chocolate ensuring these liqueurs meet the high expectations of chocolate lovers around the world.

With its new delicious creamy texture each flavor of Godiva Liqueur is crafted to be perfect on the rocks, or blended into a delicious cocktail.

Go ahead, indulge!

Shop Godiva Liqueurs

http://www.shop.com/p122902937-xinternalsearch-link_off.xhtml

Target – most stores open until 11pm

Toys R Us – most stores open until 9pm, with a few open until 10 pm

Kmart – most stores open until 10 pm

Walmart – most stores open until 8 pm

Kohl’s – most stores open until 6pm

Williams-Sonoma – most stores open until 5pm

Macy’s – most stores open until 6 pm

Nordstrom – most stores open until 6 pm

Walgreens – most stores open until 10pm and open on Christmas Day until 6pm

CVS Pharmacy – most stores open 24 hours (and those are open on Christmas Day too) and non-24 hour stores open until 6pm (not open on Christmas Day)

Grocery stores — most open today until 6pm and closed tomorrow

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Zebra Print Snuggie Blanket

I went to two holiday parties over the weekend where we had to bring a gift for a white elephant gift exchange. For these I usually like to visit my local thrift stores and find unique and artsy finds to donate so that I’m not responsible for just disseminating more junk out into the world. So I ended up finding an antique silver Santa candy dish for one party and a few oddball art books for the other.

Never would I imagine that only one item could truly capture the hearts and minds of these white elephant gift exchangers — enough to inspire a couple’s infighting, incessant re-stealing, and beaming smiles upon the stealing of this gift — the Snuggie!

Yes, that ubiquitous Snuggie blanket that I thought was just an early 2009 fad has resurfaced rampantly this holiday season at holiday parties and — dare I say it — as Christmas gift ideas. This full-body-throw-with-armholes has blanketed the world by storm!

In one holiday party I saw BOTH a zebra snuggie and a leopard print Snuggie. I was terrified that one would somehow prey upon the other! Anyhow, I looked into it and it turns out that not only are there animal-print Snuggies but you can buy college-themed Snuggies, breast cancer awareness Snuggies, even luxury microplush Snuggies! But the real kicker– Snuggies for dogs!

Believe it or not, these Snuggies are selling out quickly at stores like Target, Toys R Us, Walgreens, and more. If you can’t find one there, you may be able to score one on eBay or Amazon for about 3 times the regular cost, but hey, it’s the it-blanket of the year, so why not? For those of you that refuse to cave into the Snuggie trend, there’s always the nearly identical Slanket. What’s the difference? Who knows? They’ll both make you the most popular guest at your next white elephant gift exchange, that’s for sure!

And if you’re looking for something completely different, a bit pricier, but a lot more plush and cozy, check out my earlier post on the Nuddle Blanket!

Shop Snuggies
Shop Slankets

Air Jordan Retro Jams/photo credit Irfan Khan

Still looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for the young man or teenage boy in your family? Good news! The Air Jordan brand has announced that they’re releasing their new Air Jordan XI’s Retro Space Jam shoes tomorrow. The long-awaited for shoes were originally to be released to the public on December 24th but are now going to be released day early — probably to help boost sales and appeal to those of you doing some last-minute shopping…enjoy!

You can find these Air Jordan XI Retro Space Jams anywhere you find Nike shoes.

Shop all Air Jordans now

Oh, the weather outside is frightful. And the couch is so delightful. But since we’ve no place to go…work up a sweat (and burn off those holiday treats) with this brand new exercise DVD that’s great for dance enthusiastas. You’ve got the steps to Slumdog Millionaire’s Jai Ho dance memorized. Take your booty-shaking skills to the next level with Hemalayaa: Bollywood Dance Blast ($14.99). It features two 20-minute routines full of jumps and turns, so you can squeeze in calorie-blasting anytime.

Let it snow outside and you can heat things up indoors.

Shop All Workout DVDs

Dessert Excuses Plates sale $19.99

Every year I feature these dessert excuses plates either in a blog or we merchandise them somewhere on SHOP.COM and every year they sell out. This time they sold out at Target but I found them at a store called Kitchen Kapers…on sale! They are really adorable small dessert plates that say “We’ll have two forks please”, “OK, just a sliver”, “Have another, they’re small”, and “Oh no, I couldn’t”. Not your average dull or dainty dessert plate, that’s for sure. And that’s why it’s topping this list of great hostess gift ideas for the holidays.

Bacon of the Month Club, $190 for 6 months

My next pick for a hostess gift is rather unusual, but I had to feature it. It’s a Bacon of the Month Club. Yes, I said bacon. Every month. While you may be tempted to keep this one for yourself, it might be worth giving this to say, a boss you’re trying to impress, a potential father-in-law, or maybe even the friend you’re trying to convince to babysit for you. Either way, give this to a host and you’ll be the hit of the party. Each month they’ll receive everything from Applewood smoked to pepper to Canadian bacon, delivered straight to their door along with detailed notes about the bacon, a “bacon strip” (a comic strip about bacon), and more. Ham it up, why not? Goes great with this adorable bacon pig press too!

Paella Set, $59.99

Although I usually avoid giving hostess gifts that inspire images of work (ie cooking, cleaning, kitchen stuff, etc.), I could not resist adding this amazing paella set from wine.com on this list. Maybe because I want this myself. (hint, hint). Anyway, not only does it come with a gorgeous paella pan but with an entire bottle of Campo Viejo Rioja wine! And some tapas plates, Spanish saffron, olives, paprika and paella rice! It’s a great bargain for $60 and a perfect gift for the hostess who loves to cook.

Grobal Self-Watering Pot, sale $7.48

Everyone loves plants, but how many people do you know that actually take care of them? That’s why this Grobal baby self-watering pot is a great hostess gift idea for the hostess with the mostest…on her plate that doesn’t even have time to water plants. Comes with soil, food, and is available in several different colors here.

Sunjar, a solar-powered mason jar sale $34.95

There’s nothing than being the life of the party, the cat’s meow, a ray of sunshine…no, literally. You can bring a ray of sunshine to your next party with this holiday hostess gift idea — the Sunjar. It’s a mason jar that, when placed in the sunshine, charges its own battery, emitting light through the frosted jar when fully charged. Great gift for the eco-friendly peeps in your life.

Gianna Rose Atelier Cochon Pig Soaps, $21

For the hostesses that might wash their hands of the whole bacon of the month club idea, you can still wow them with these cute pig soaps! Gianna Rose makes an entire collection of absolutely adorable soaps — maltese dog soaps, cat soaps, wise owl soaps, and much more. See the entire selection of Gianna Rose soaps here.

Vinturi Wine Aerator, $40

Wild Hibiscus Flowers in Syrup, $13.95

This is a really unique hostess gift idea and perfect for the foodie — wild hibiscus flowers in syrup. These are gorgeous edible flowers that you can toss into a champagne glass or into any carbonated drink, instantly opening up the bouquet, so to speak. Very pretty and dainty. You’ll wow her with this one.

Onion Goggles, $19.99

These onion goggles are amazing. I have them in green and they make chopping onions totally bearable. Makes a great hostess gift for the delicate girly-girl who loves to cook but is, uh…a bit delicate. She’ll never cry again!

Have a great suggestion for a unique hostess gift? Please share with us!

Free Shipping Day Today!

If ever there was a good time to order last-minute Christmas gifts, today IS IT! Over 700 stores are offering amazing free shipping deals today, with guaranteed delivery by Christmas. Check out the list here and don’t miss out!

Extra 20% savings with coupon code DEC20 at checkout- A $436 Value

With the New Year just around the corner, make a resolution to turn back the hands of time with the latest invention in anti-aging technology.  Over time, your muscles respond to repeated use and ‘memorize’ familiar actions. At last, there’s a petite portable device, based on the successful principles of the Micro Dermal Tone technique that can help turn back the hands of time and “reprogram” muscles. Following the natural contours of your face, NuFace delivers a safe, gentle (and painless!) micro current to the cells, strategically rehabilitating and firming the facial muscles. The result - diminished minor lines and wrinkles; improved texture and circulation; restored facial muscle tone and a new, more youthful you. Immediate and long-lasting results in just a few minutes a day – we think it’s nothing short of lifesaving. Who needs Botox when you can have a NuFace?

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If you’re looking for some gorgeous jewelry made with all-natural materials at AMAZING prices, check out Gorjana jewelry. Not only are the designs delicate and stunning, they’ve been worn by dozens of celebrities from Jessica Alba to Cindy Crawford. Gorjana is having a special one-day sale on all their jewelry (handbags too!) today only! Use code HOLIDAY09 at checkout to save 25% with FREE ground shipping and guaranteed delivery by December 23!

Yay Gorjana!

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So here are my go-to skin savers: Clinique’s Deep Comfort Hand and Cuticle Cream is an oil-free, super-rich formula that’s easily absorbed and conditions nails and dry, flaky cuticles too. The clincher is you only need a pea-size amount on each hand to ensure continuous, 12-hour moisturizing.  It also boasts a ton of antioxidants to counteract and protect your skin from the damaging free-radicals that speed up the aging process.

Jurlique’s Hand Cream Trio,  in three luscious scents–citrus, rose and lavendar–is a bedtime favorite. The nourishing  ingredients of honey, calendula and sweet almond oils, deliver enough hydration that one coating leaves my hands looking plump and moisturized by morning. And while these hand helpers are pretty handy for me, I’m thinking they make great gifts too, especially for anyone cooking up a storm this holiday season.

A cool limited edition trio, for $48 ($75 value).

Theme Dress, Satin Ruffle with Belt, sale $57.99

Holiday party season is in full swing, and if you’re like me, you’re realizing that everyone’s seen just about every dress you own over the last few years and it’s time to refresh that holiday party wardrobe! Luckily there are tons of great sales right now on dresses and clothing in general. Here are some of my favorite holiday party dress looks for the season.

New York & Company is having a great sale right now: Buy 1, get 1 75% off! I LOVE these tunic dresses — pair them with some leggings and some caged sandals and you’ll be perfectly glam for your holiday night out!

Tunic Dress, $54.95

Nordstrom has some affordable Free People dresses on sale right now too. If wearing red is not your style, check out this adorable little black dress with a twist — it’s embellished with some festive gold leaves for a bit of added holiday flair.

Free People Leaf Motif Dress, $108

Macy’s has a great assortment of plus size holiday party dresses on sale this season. Check out dress labels like Alfani, Baby Phat, Necessary Objects, Love Squared, and much more. This gorgeous and elegant black dress is on sale right now for only $49.99.

Alfani Plus Size Sleeveless Embellished Dress, sale $49.99

Of course…if red and black are simply too blah for you, then it’s time to glitter it up and go GLAM! I LOVE these Free People sequined mesh tunic dresses — they come in black, white gold, and grape. Gorgeous! And the best part — they’re only $68!

Free People Sequined Mesh Tunic Dress, $68

Shop holiday party dresses now

The Art of Shaving has an incredible kit that has everything he needs for the perfect shave. In fact, it’s called: The 4 Elements of The Perfect Shave® and it combines The Art of Shaving’s aromatherapy-based products, handcrafted accessories and expert shaving technique to guarantee optimal shaving results while relieving and preventing ingrown hairs, razor burn, tough beard and sensitive skin. The Full Size Kit offers Pre-Shave Oil (2 fl. oz), Shaving Cream (5.3 oz), After-Shave Balm (4 fl. oz), and a Pure Badger Shaving Brush. It comes in four different flavors: lavender essential oil, lemon essential oil, rosemary essential oil and unscented. Give him one or all four kinds. For a great holiday that goes very smoothly

Shop The Art of Shaving Now

Latke Dish, $34.99

I couldn’t resist featuring this adorable latke plate from Target! Today is the first day of Hanukkah, and whether you’re Jewish or not, there’s no reason why you can’t make some latkes anyway — they’re delicious! A latke is essentially a potato pancake, usually eaten throughout Hanukkah and regularly eaten by many people throughout Eastern Europe. They are usually made with grated potatoes and onion and served with applesauce and sour cream. Here’s a simple recipe, courtesy of Epicurious:

* 1 medium onion, peeled
* 4 large russet or Idaho potatoes (about 3 1/2 pounds), peeled
* 2 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
* Applesauce and/or sour cream, for serving

Preparation

Preheat oven to 200°F. Place 2 nonstick baking sheets in oven.

Serve pancakes hot with applesauce and/or sour cream.

Then…you can put them in this nifty plate and enjoy! Yum!

Shop latke mixes
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Shop Hanukkah items
Shop the Festival of Lights collection from Organize.com

Le Creuset Fondue Pot, sale $150

Great sale at Williams-Sonoma, just in time for holiday entertaining and cooking! All Calphalon and Le Creuset cookware is on sale until midnight (PST) on Sunday, 12/13. Don’t miss this one!

Shop Le Creuset at Williams-Sonoma
Shop Calphalon at Williams-Sonoma

Twilight Turtle Constellation Night Light on Sale $29.95

Twilight Turtle Constellation Nightlight transforms any room into a starry night sky to help your little one fall asleep sooner, sounder and easier than ever. From within his plastic shell, Twilight Turtle projects a magical constellation of stars onto the bedroom ceiling and walls in three soothing color options. Twilight Turtle’s shell illuminates like a nightlight to help ease children’s fear of the dark. This interactive and educational toy includes eight actual constellations (such as The Big Dipper) embedded in the star pattern. Parents can sit with their tots and identify these major constellations using the beautifully illustrated Twilight Turtle Star Guide. Twilight Turtle helps make bedtime fun for children ages two and above. It received the National Parenting Seal of Approval. It was the 2006 Creative Child Magazine Preferred Choice, Baby Talk Editor’s Choice and iParenting Award Winner.

Shop Twilight Turtle Now

Neopets Series Camoflauge Poogle

If you’re frantically trying to find a Zhu Zhu pet somewhere, don’t worry. There are alternatives. Who who, you say? Zhu Zhu (Zhu Zhu is Chinese for “little pig” and is pronounced “joo joo”) pets are probably the hottest holiday toy gift right now — and are nearly impossible to find at regular price due to demand. They are plush robotic hamsters that coo, purr, sleep, and do other cute animal-like things. Once available at Toys R Us, Zhu Zhu pets have flown off the shelves and are now only to be found for exorbitant prices at eBay and Amazon.com.

But there’s another pet/toy that starting to get some buzz — Neopets. Neopets have been around for about 12 years, starting as a virtual site that allowed to own, well, a virtual pet. You can create a pet, play games with other Neopets in Neopia, and use Neocash to get around. Neopets branched out with its own merchandise too, so now you can purchase a Neopet and get a unique code that gives you access to certain features on the site.

Neopets Puzzle Adventure for Wii

You can also play games on your Wii or purchase Neopets collectors’ figurines and use them to play on Neopets playsets too! See, there are alternatives to Zhu Zhu — and the best part is, most Neopets figures and merchandise is less than $20!

Neopets Figures

Neopets Playset on sale for $9.98

Shop Neopets now
Shop Zhu Zhu pets now

Susan Boyle's New I Dreamed a Dream CD

Susan Boyle, the 48-year old Britain’s Got Talent overnight sensation, released her debut album I Dreamed a Dream last week, and it is already number one on the charts. If you’re not familiar with Susan Boyle, she’s the Scottish-born singer that sang her rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Miserables — stunning the world with the contrast between her powerful voice and her, according to some, less than powerful appearance.

And she may get the last laugh after all — critics are lauding her new album, raving that her versions of songs like the Rolling Stones’ “Wild Horses,” and “Amazing Grace” are gorgeous, melancholic tunes. They’ve got to be right about something — after all, her album has already gone platinum in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. I wouldn’t be surprised if it goes platinum here too!

Check out Susan Boyle’s new album for yourself today. Listen to it free here.
And purchase Susan Boyle’s album for as low as $8.95 here!

baggallini Only Bagg – Microfiber - Was $69.99 now $19.99 (71% Savings)

Today is Cyber Monday (the internet’s version of Black Friday) which means that online shoppers can continue to save big.  Save up to 60% at Overstock.com on hundreds of items like electronics, clothing and shoes, home & bath, toys and so much more.  eBags Cyber Monday Doorbusters sale is offering an additional 20%  off their already low, low prices plus free shipping on great handbags, totes, wallets and clutches. Get up to 50% off during the eToys  Cyber Monday sale plus free shipping on orders of $49.99 or more.  Now you can get a head start on your holiday shopping and save big bucks!

Today Only!

Black Friday is over but stores like Toys R Us are extending their super savings and specials through the weekend. Now you can save up to 60% or even more on games, toys, puzzles, action figures, stuffed animals, baby toys, electronic toys and more. Get a jump start on your holiday shopping with the Toys R Us Cyber Deals sale now and stock up on everything for the big kid on your list or the little kid inside us all. Stay home, stay out of the malls and shop online for all your Black Friday savings and beyond.

Sony Bravia LCD TV 1080p 52 in. $1147.99

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe 30th Anniversary Edition $49.99

Elle Sweater $21.99 plus get xtra 15% with code TURKEY15 at Kohl's

Apple's One-Day Sale Today!! iPod nano $138

Nikon Coolpix L20 10megapixel Camera $96.95

Nikon Coolpix digital camera in deep red seem to be on sale everywhere right now. At Buydig, you can get a great bundle too that includes the camera, the case, 2GB of memory, and more for only $117.94!

Invicta Men's Russian Diver 18kt.Gold-Plated Watch

I just had to point out this amazing Black Friday deal as part of the Black Friday Deals Week on Amazon — the watch sale! Right now you can get Invicta watches (like the watch above which is originally $495 but is on sale now for $198) for up to 60% off! There are hundreds of Invicta watches to choose from, check it out now before the sale is over!

Shop Invicta watches on sale now at Amazon

Best Buy Black Friday Deals
Sale begins 11/27

Samsung 46” LCD TV 1080p 120 HZ $999.99

Sprint Palm Pre $79.99

Hewlett-Packard Laptop $197
in store only

Sony VAIO Laptop with free antivirus software for 1 year $399.99

Garmin Nuvi 205 $99.99

Left 4 Dead 2—Xbox 360 $34.99

Walmart Black Friday Deals — 5-11 a.m. on Friday
eMachine Laptop $198

Sony Bravia 46-inch $798

Nikon Coolpix S230 $139

Polo Ralph Lauren for Men $29

Crock-Pot Slow Cooker 7 Quart

Miley Cyrus & Max Azria Graphic Tees $3

Emerson 32″ LCD 720p HDTV $248

Emerson 42″ Plasma 720pHDTV $448

Maganvox Blu-ray Disc Player $78

Nintendo DS Lite $98

Xbox 360 Arcade Console with 3 bonus items $199

PlayStation 3 Console with Bonus items $299

Rock Band Special Edition $50

X Rocker Gaming Chair $35

Amazon’s Black Friday Deals

GET $3 IN MP3s for FREE!

Garmin Nuvi 260 $119.99
Kodak Pocket Video Camera $99
Canon PIXMA Photo Printer $49
KitchenAid Professional Mixer $299.99

Invicta men’s Russian diver collection black watch $89.99

Fujifilm FinePix J28 Digital Camera $79.99

Newegg’s Black Friday Deals
Samsung S2 640 GB USB 2.0 External Hard Drive $99

Sharp 46” LCD HDTV $699.99

Sony DVP- Portable DVD Player $152.99

Buy.com’s Black Friday Deals
George Foreman grill $16.88

Microsoft Zune Pink $100.99

Microsoft Zune Pink Refurbished 30 GB $89.99

White Gold 10K Three Diamond Drop Pendant $54.99

North and South Complete Collection $16.99

Target — Starts at 5 am

Westinghouse 32” LCD TV 720p $246

Nikon CoolPix S203 Digital Camera $88

TomTom XL340S GPS $97

Apex 40” 1080p LCD TV $449

Haier 7” portable TV $79

Memorex system for iPod $49.99

Casio Keyboard $49.99

Sony Blu-ray player $149.99

Memorex compact DVD player $19.99

Western Digital portable 500 GB hard drive $59.98

RCA 7” Dual-screen DVD player $88

Garmin Nuvi 1350 GPS $179

Apple 8GB iPod nano $145

RCA 7” Portable DVD player $47

H&M
H&M Friday Store Hours:

Most H&M stores will open at 6am; some will open as early as 5am

H&M Black Friday Specials:

25% off any item of your choice from opening until 10AM
Fashion finds starting at $5 (example pricing included below)
Select outerwear styles at 50% percent off

Example pricing:

Ladies

Knitted shrugs from $24.95 to $5.00

Knitted dresses from $34.95 to $10.00

Party dresses from $39.95 to $15.00

Men’s

Patterned shirts from $29.95 to $10.00

Merino wool sweaters from $39.95 to $15.00

Knit pullovers from $24.95 to $10.00

Kids

Little girls sweaters $17.95 to $5.00

Little Boys trousers from $17.95 to $5.00

Ladies/Men’s

Winter knit accessories $14.95 to $5.00

If you were anywhere around a movie theater last night or today, you probably saw an interminable line of teenage girls (and some boys and adult women too) for the new Twilight: New Moon movie premiere. It’s the second movie in the entire Twilight trilogy based on the book by Stephenie Meyer and it is probably one of 2009’s biggest movies, sweeping the nation by storm a la Harry Potter. Ok, that’s hyperbole, but you know what I mean. The kids are going crazy for it — so crazy that brands are starting to align themselves with the movie, creating Twilight-themed clothing, jewelry, beauty products, and more.

This, of course, makes it very simple for you to find the perfect gift for that Twilight fan in your life.  Nordstrom, for example launched an entire Twilight: New Moon line of clothing, cosmetics, and jewelry that’s…well, to die for. Check out this chunky charm bracelet from Nordstrom’s Brass Plum line:

Twilight Charm Bracelet

And for those fans that want to slumber soundly at the thought of a dreamy Edward Cullen, check out this Twilight Trio Pack — it includes a fleece blanket, a tote, and a throw pillow. Plus you get a free New Moon bracelet with any purchase of $30 or more!

Twilight Trio Pack ,$29.99

Plus check out these other Twilight movie gift ideas:

Twilight Wallet,$19.99

Twilight Lip Venom, $16.99

Twilight New Moon Movie Poster, sale $9.95

Shop Twilight books
Shop Twilight movie posters
Shop Twilight clothing from Nordstrom
Shop Twilight jewelry
Shop Twilight board games, collectors dolls, and other Twilight toys

Get $20 off today only!

Gorjana Jewelry is offering a special deal for The Shopping Vine readers, just in time for holiday shopping and gift giving season! If you’re not familiar with Gorjana jewelry, check out the site. Gorjana’s jewelry is gorgeous and affordable, and many of the designs are nature-inspired or very modern-looking pieces. Celebrities like Jessica Alba, Felicity Huffman, Rachael Ray and many more have worn Gorjana’s jewelry.

Please note: You can only get $20 off Gorjana jewelry TODAY. This promotion will expire at 11:59pm tonight. Use code SPOILME20 at checkout.

What are you waiting for? These make PERFECT Christmas gifts for the fashionista in your life! (Hint, hint everyone who knows me!)

Shop Gorjana’s site now to get the $20 off
Shop Gorjana’s jewelry on shopbop

With the holidays coming, and visions of sugarplums dancing in your head, there’s no better time to clean house and make sure your body is squeeky clean. That way you can feel free to sneak in a bit of indulgence and not feel it in the New Year. We recommend you clean up your body with Teavana Detox Tea Blend. By combining the detoxifying effects of green tea, white tea and oolong tea, you get the best of all worlds. This tea blend is designed to clean the stuff you consume (but probably shouldn’t) from your kidneys.  It reduces the effects of alcohol, fat, sodium salt and heavy meals. And it helps control your blood sugar. With just a touch of caffeine, it’s a great option in the mornings. This is a blend of Silver Needle white tea, Gyokuro green tea and Monkey-picked Oolong. Also tastes great with a bit of Organic Peppermint tea mixed in.

It will fit you to a T!

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Shop all Detox Teas

The weather is getting harsh. Your skin is thirsty. Sun exposure and summertime abuse has now turned into wintertime blues for your skin. What’s a girl to do? Have an at-home regimen from Murad, the most trusted name is Doctor branded skincare.  Powerful antioxidants protect skin from sun and free radical damage. Patented Skin Repair System illuminates the appearance of overstressed skin and improves elasticity to maintain firmness. And this DIY Vitamin C Home Infusion Facial Kit is a weekly treatment that is PROVEN in over 78% of users to increase clarity, brightness and firmness. It reverses damage, provides instant hydration and restores youthful clarity. Includes 4 Treatment Powders, 4 Treatment Gels, Sensitive Skin Soothing Serum™, mixing bowl and application brush.  Now you can face the world.

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 Shop All Beauty Now

If you’re engaged or thinking about getting engaged, we’ve got just the contest for you! SHOP.COM has partnered up with InStyle Weddings to give one lucky couple the Ultimate Honeymoon Shopping Spree!

Just imagine: you could deck out your new life together with brand new appliances, home decor, bedding and much more if you win!

To enter just email your smartest wedding shopping strategy to weddings@instylemag.com and you could win a $1,000 shopping spree on SHOP.COM!

Enter now

Pull your legs (and thighs, and butt) up by the bootstraps with the latest shoe from FitFlop. Forget those excuses when it comes to skipping sweat sessions. Too busy, too tired, too stressed! Now you have permission to cheat on your workouts.

Check out these adorable Mukluks from FitFlop - these booties do much more than keep your toesies cozy–they may also firm your legs and butt. These shearling booties come in three colors (black, chestnut and chocolate) and feature FitFlop’s famous microwobbleboard midsole which can help you stand up straighter, tone leg muscles and reduce back pain. It’s basically a mini workout in every step.

Are you ready, boots? Start walkin’!

If you need some extra help in the “looking refreshed” department, here are some tips and products to the rescue.

If you have trouble falling asleep, try a relaxing massage or warm bath with aromatherapy essential oils before bedtime.

This Jade Aromatherapy Amulet diffuses Aromatherapy Essential Oils While You Sleep

If your face is feeling dull and dry, an overnight hydrating mask will replenish your skin and provide intense hydration while you sleep.

Murad Hydrating Gel Mask Replenishes and Hydrates for up to 24 Hours

Dark mornings leave us all getting out of the wrong side of bed. Take a revitalizing shower with citrus notes.

L’Occitane En Provence Citrus Verbena will help you say Rise and Shine!

Don’t disguise dark eye bags with make-up. Banish them with an illuminating eye gel with Grapefruit and Sage.

Murad Lighten and Brighten Eye Treatment

First Aid Beauty Detox Eye Roller, $24

Lately,  I’ve been tired. Like really tired. Like getting-up-at-5:30AM-every-morning-tired. Daylight savings–you know when you’re supposed to gain that extra hour of sleep–meant another hour to burn the midnight oil in my house.  My son is still not getting the hang of his usual sleeping patterns (which stretched almost an extra two hours to the blissful wakeup time of 7-7:30) and as a result, my skin, particularly my eyes, are taking a beating. I started looking like a racoon a few days ago, with circles so dark and puffy, I was hesitant about removing my sunglasses, indoors.

But of course, a beauty product to the rescue. I’ve tried eye creams without much success. No matter how soothing,  the cream didn’t eradicate the bags or tired feeling. Enter the ingenious eye roller. I first discovered the Garnier Nutritioniste Anti-Puff Roller last year, and have been using it erase puffiness and dark shadows ever since. The cool metal ball deposits a caffeine-infused formula around your eyes, and wakes them up instantly by wiping away puffiness and softening the shadows. But like any original, there are bound to be copies (a great form of flattery, they say).   I mean, what other pick-me-up feels better on your tired, lackluster skin, than a cool ball that massages all your sleepy feelings away? And while these may look like copies, they all have their own unique ingredients to zap away puffiness. The Detox Eye Roller by First Aid Beauty , clears out lymphatic build-up, with caffeine,  hyaluronate (a moisturizing ingredient) and peptides to increase collagen production and plump up sunken shadows.  The Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-Aging Eye Roller isn’t just a single ball, but a cluster of micro-balls (think of those handheld ball massagers). Once you massage the roller around your eyes, it goes to work erasing crow’s feet and wrinkles with its patented peptide ingredients.  All of these are about the size of a marker, so they’re purse-friendly; which means you can skip the cup of coffee and roll with it all day long.

Williams-Sonoma New Deep Fried Turkey $95

If you’ve ever wondered what deep-fried turkey tastes like, but have been too scared to try making one on your own, you’re in duck! I mean luck! Williams-Sonoma has a brand new item as part of their Thanksgiving repertoire this year — a Southern-style Deep Fried “Jive” Turkey. And boy does it look good. The turkey comes from Brooklyn’s Famous Jive Turkey restaurant, which specializes in deep-fried turkeys, offering about a dozen varieties from Jerk Turkey to Lemon Pepper Turkey to a Peking Fried Turkey, and is now available to you through the Williams-Sonoma web site for $95.

The deep-fried turkey ships overnight and it is recommended that you eat it within 4 days of arrival, so don’t order it too early! The turkey is rubbed with sage, rosemary, and thyme and cooked in peanut oil at very high heat, meaning that the turkey itself actually absorbs very little oil. MMMM!

Want to deep fry your own turkey? Check out my post last year on this amazing oilless turkey fryer! It heats your turkey using infrared technology and is much safer than deep-frying!

If you’re more into the traditional, Williams-Sonoma also has an amazing free-range Willie Bird turkey too that has gotten rave reviews from its eaters. Try it with the Williams-Sonoma apple & spices turkey brine and you’re good to go!

Willie Bird Free Range Turkey $89.95 for 18lb.

And if you’re way beyond paltry poultry, and are needing to iron out your just desserts, you MUST try Williams-Sonoma’s Pecan Pumpkin Butter, it is heavenly! THIS PUMPKIN BUTTER SELLS OUT EARLY EVERY YEAR, SO GET SOME NOW!

Williams-Sonoma Pecan Pumpkin Butter, $9.95

And last, but certainly not least, DO NOT leave the Williams-Sonoma store without looking at this new Acorn Cakelets Pan! Rather than making huge cakes and pies that make mounds of leftovers and leave guests feeling overly full, try making these mini-cakes in festive fall acorn-shaped goodness! This one comes with a snickerdoodle quick bread mix. Heavenly!

Acorn Cakelets Pan with Snickerdoodle Bread Mix, $43

Shop Williams-Sonoma Jive Deep-Fried Turkey
Shop Williams-Sonoma Willie Bird Turkey
Shop Williams-Sonoma Pecan Pumpkin Butter
Shop Williams-Sonoma Acorn Cakelet Pan
Shop Oilless Turkey Fryers

Yankees MLB French Terry Knit Jacket by Alyssa Milano

Game 1 of the World Series began today, and for those of you ladies that love the sport, but don’t love sporting some of the fashion, I’ve got news for you: you can actually LOOK GOOD in fan clothing! Yes, it’s true. And you can thank Alyssa Milano for this.

Yes, the Alyssa Milano we all know and love as “Samantha” from Who’s the Boss has her own lines of baseball and football fan clothing specially designed for the female sports lover who wants a little more style out of her sportswear.

Phillies Bubble Tee by Alyssa Milano

I also love this line of vintage style World Series 2009 tees available from the store Football Fanatics.

Vintage Style World Series 2009 Ladies' T-Shirt

Believe it or not, this is one of our most popular!

Reality TV “celebrities” and other celebrities (especially those that have passed away like Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, and Patrick Swayze) will top this year’s popular Halloween costumes for 2009.

Kate Gosselin’s Infamous “Hair Don’t” Will Definitely Be a Halloween Hit This Year

Many will honor the late Farrah Fawcett’s look with a 70s style blonde wig a la Charlie’s Angels

And of course there are the costumes inspired by movies, like this Bollywood Male Costume inspired by Slumdog Millionaire

Shop our Halloween Shop now
What’s your favorite Halloween costume pick for 2009? Please share with us!