My New Life Guide Is Lotta Jansdotter's Handmade Living: A Fresh Take on Scandinavian Living

I have loved Lotta Jansdotter for years and have written about her products at every opportunity. I wrote about her sewing book back in 2007 and her notecard book, labels and stickers back in 2010.

There is such a clean simplicity to everything that she does that I find so calming and simultaneously appealing.So when I discovered her new book, Handmade Living: A Fresh Take on Scandinavian Style, I knew I'd found my new life guide.

What I mean by that is adapted her philosophies and looks into my own life. While there are many similarities to our looks and homes, I am always looking for ways to improve, simplify, declutter and spend more time on the things that truly matter.

Lotta graciously lets us in on her home and office and shows us fantastic ways to decorate, design and entertain. But really, it is more a lesson about a way of life. In the introduction, she writes, "It's my aim to show you that living a stylish life does not require a lot of money. It simply takes some interest, patience, and a touch of creativity."

I really believe that  you can live a full life without spending a lot. It's like a lot of organizing books say - keep only what really matters and you will enjoy those few things so much more. So I am already on board with her on this one. I think I just need a little honing and maybe a little more Scandinavian touches throughout the place.

Lotta also says that for her, "home is not really home unless there is a bit of cooking involved," so she she not only shares some of her beloved recipes, but includes recipe cards at the back.

I think what I find so fascinating is that she lives in bustling New York doing all of these wildly creative, energetic things and yet, her home is a haven of serenity, calm and beauty. This, while she has a husband, 2 year-old son and a cat. It's not a pristine white on white penthouse where things don't get touched and/or moved. This is like our home - where people live their lives and get dirty and have laundry to do and garbage to take out. What a relief to find someone like us (because we all know that people like Martha Stewart has staff and is prickly about mess). Just look at her kitchen - things are stacked and stacked. It feels just like home, doesn't it?

She gives great advice about everything from covering your windows so they still let in light to using up wasted space with baskets and shelves. And now I want "tray slings" and to instill "Fika" and "Smorgastarta" in my life! - you're just going to have to get the book to find out what they are.My favourite part of the book is about her office. She loves it so much that she decorates and reorganizes it all the time. A woman after my own heart.

I know about 20 people that could really use this book and about 50 that would love it just for the beautiful wisdom and ideas within it, not to mention the photos. What a gorgeous gift this makes - both for yourself and for others. 

And really, giving yourself the life you deserve is the best gift of all. Which is why this is going on my permanent holiday and birthday gift list. Because this kind of joy should be spread all around!

Buy your copies of Handmade Living now.

Bhold Shoe Bags Pamper Your Shoes - Each Individual One

Maybe you've been only using your shoe bags for traveling. I have. Because they aren't really all that pretty or that functional for anything more than keeping your shoes separate from your clothes in your luggage.

That's until I got Bhold Shoe Bags.

Proudly made and designed in Canada, you won't be able to resist these pretty little numbers. They come in so many patterns suitable for both men, women and young ladies, so they make a wonderful gift for the world traveler or the never-ending organizer.

Far superior to the ones you've used up until now, Bhold Bags are lined (your shoes have never been so pampered - I call my bags my "shoe spas") and come with a separator, so that each shoe gets its own cushy department and stay in tip-top shape. How swank is that?! The two drawstrings are finished with wooden beads, making it easy to stash and store your shoes in an instant.

And there are so many collections to choose from: Bella, an embellished collection that reminds me of frothy wedding cakes, Bling, for those that want to add a little shimmer and shine with Swarovski crystals to their closet, Top Shelf is a rich collection of sumptuous patterns and colours, Playful is all about whimsical and colourful cottons, and the Active Collection, which oozes city chic.

I got the Pixie Gurl (pictured above) which I use for storing away my lovely towering heels and wedges as well as toting my flats with me when I'm heading out for a night on the town and know that I will only get as far as the restaurant before I'll have to switch out of my teeterting booties.

Of course, you don't have to use them only for shoes - wrap wine or champagne, store your audio equipment (who says you can't still rock a yellow discman?) or keep all of your hair accessories together and organized. The possibilities are endless.

I am thrilled to have found Bhold Bags. They are the solution I didn't know I needed. Next on my list? A Bhold Shopping Bag!

Shop the entire Bhold Collection now.

Why You Should Make the Switch to IQ Cleaners

Not all "natural" and "eco-friendly" cleaners work.

Sometimes they leave behind streaks and essential oil smudges.So it's important to find one that actually cleans well enough that you don't feel like you have to clean afterwards. Been there, done that.

Scent is also very important to me. I want something that smells "clean" but not astringent.There's nothing better than walking into the house and inhaling a big ol' whiff of "this house has been taken care of."

That's why I'm think iQ Cleaners are a smart choice:

- The wicked design  of an empty bottle with a cartridge. You pop in the cartridge and add water. Better for the environment (80% less waste) and a lot easier to carry home.

- They do what they say they do: clean.

- Non-toxic ingredients means that I can feel good about using them at home. After all, our Cosmo has been known to lick the floor on occasion.

- You can finally afford cleaners again. Thanks to iQ, they've created an inexpensive options for those of us who don't want to have to choose between buying a cleaner or pair of shoes...

- The scents are wonderful - flowery, but not sweet, and yes, clean-smelling. Woo woo!

I tried 3 of the 4 cleaners and was thrilled with them all. The All-Purpose Cleaner goes to work in my office and the kitchen without any elbow grease required. I clean our bathroom a lot, so it's nice to know that iQ Bathroom Cleaner is always up to the task. It makes it smell amazing too, which I really appreciate. And with mirrored doors everywhere, you wouldn't believe how much Glass Cleaner I go through. This is one I can actually afford. 

When's the last time you were "thrilled" with your cleaners? That's what I thought.

So get yourself iQ Cleaners and have a clean, safe home that smells wonderful without having to break the bank. It really is that easy.

Luxuriate in Linen Towels This Summer from the UK's LinenMe

Linen is a timeless fabric. 

I remember seeing black and white photos of Audrey Hepburn and Katharine Hepburn in linen pants and suits and yet, here they are today at stores like TopShop and Banana Republic.

But perhaps you've never considered linen for your home. Linen Me in England has a whole online shop dedicated to not only linen clothes, linen scarves and linen fabrics but bed linen, throws & blankets, kitchen linen, table linen and bathroom linen.

Inga, an interior designer who graduated from London’s KLC School of Design, explains her love of linen:

"Over years I have come to the conclusion that pure linen, like any other natural fiber, has some sort of magic powers, and I love to share my expertise, skills and passion with LinenMe customers. Making our luxury products affordable and available to any home and taste has always been one of the highest priorities at LinenMe. I’m a regular visitor and exhibitor at interior design fairs in the UK, Germany, France, Japan and USA, so I do try to produce home interior accessories suitable for various tastes, fitting different size standards and as much up-to-date as possible." 

In addition all of the designs at LinenMe are produced in a small, family owned facility in Lithuania. 

I love looking through this site because it shows that linen can be extremely vibrant and colourful like the Silk Wool Orange Scarf and this stunning Purple Linen Dress! And while looking through all of the beautiful items, I was surprised to learn that there are thick and luxurious linen bath towels. I had only seen linen tea towels and cloths before.

So I was really excited to try a Natural Striped Huckaback Linen Bath Towel Lucas (pictured above) to greet me after an energizing shower or a relaxing dip in the tub. This 100% organic linen towel is so super soft (it's been pre-washed, so it's even softer than you can imagine) that you'll wonder why you've been buying cotton towels all these years. The size (70 x 130 cm, 100 x 150 cm) means that everyone in the family will get to envelope themselves and have that spa-at-home feeling and the stripes lend a decidedly modern and exciting look to an otherwise ordinary bathroom.

I'm making the switch over the linen everything - what about you?

Shop LinenMe's incredible collection now.

Get the Cleanest Floors You've Ever Had with Rubbermaid's Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop

I've got hardwood floors throughout my home. And then tiles in the kitchen and bathroom.

That combined with my fella and I working out of our one-bedroom home with our cat at our feet leaves our place somewhat overrun. Oh, and when I'm not writing, I'm cooking, so needless to say, our floors need to be cleaned once a day.At least.

That being said, as much as I love a clean house, I don't want to spend hours scrubbing floors. That's why I am head over heels for Rubbermaid's New Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop!

The microfiber pad is phenomenal - I can't believe how clean the floors get, with no need to go over them again (thank goodnesss)! Rubbermaid says it picks up "50% more dirt and dust per swipe than traditional mops," but it seems like a higher number to me.My kitchen and bathroom tiles have these grooves where everything slips into. The Reveal cleaned 'em  right out. All that hair (it's not just the cat, we all shed), dust, dirt, food, everything gets picked up.  And because of the design, it swivels and gets into teeny, tiny corners like no other mop I've ever tried.

I think because of the thick, thirsty microfiber material, it holds more water than most pads and it's able to  clean thoroughly with each swab you do. My floors look amazing (yes, you can come and see them, but please call first). A refillable spray bottle allows you to wash your floors in whatever eco cleaners you like. Me, I like to use just water (try it and tell me your floors don't shine up a storm), so I appreciate that I can fill the bottle and pull the handle and spray as I go (why anyone would still use a bucket in this day and age is beyond me, but all this time, I have been having to go over to the sink and re-wet my cloth - no more!).  That means, that I can clean much, much faster.

I've never seen a velcro stickiness like this before either. You never ever have to worry about the pad becoming loose (a problem I've had in the past with other mops) because you have to use some upper arm strength to tear the pad off when you're done. So mop away knowing that the pad is always safe and secure. I also love the cushiony foam handle, which makes for very comfortable mopping. Why not make the experience as enjoyable as possible?And there's no need for disposable anything with this mop. You get 200 times with each pad. Toss your pad into the wash, not in the garbage like those ones from the drugstore. Ech.

Buy it online at Rubbermaid.com, at Lowes, Loblaws, Home Hardware, Walmart and Home Depot for $29.99 (it comes with one spray bottle and one cleaning pad). Additional cleaning pads can be purchased for $6.99 and spray bottles are $4.49.

Rubbermaid Reveal Microfiber Spray Mop, where have you been all of my life? I know have all this extra time on my hands, thanks to you.

Ahhh.

Bring Paradise Home Via Tautropfen's Jalë Orient Collection

I am not really a chocolates/candles/flowers kind of gal.

But I can't help but swoon over "the beguiling organic rose oil obtained from the hand-picked blossoms of the  fragrant Damascene Rose" in Tautropfen's Jalë  Orient Collection. The scent is just mind-blowingly alluring and exotic. And I have to say, now I'm completely spoiled because the fragrance of regular roses just became oh-so-ordinary. This scent is just so much deeper and richer.

The Tautropfen Jalë  Orient Collection gives you many enchanting options for creamy soft skin:

- Enchanting Rose Shower Emulsion uses the intoxicating rose oil blended with argan oil, making for a satiny, velvety wash that transforms the bathroom into a garden and your skin into a pampered, nourished wonder.

- Alluring Rose Soap gives your skin the same luscious feeling as the emulsion, but with the bar, you get dried rose petals on top and a swirl of colour through the soap. If you can manage to tear yourself away from it (just try to stop yourself from smelling it - I bet you can't), it makes a wonderful gift.

- Enchanting Rose Bath Cube comes two to a pack and they look similar to the soap, but are smaller and sqaure. Dried rose petals can be seen throughout these as well. So pretty! And just think about how rewarding it will be to come home after a long day and sink into a luxurious bath that drenches your skin in cocoa butter, organic shea butter and milk protein. Simply dissolve a cube while running your bath and in mere moments, your skin - and soul - will be restored to their natural beauty. Ahhh...

-Magical Rhassul Wash Clay -  Over the years, I've witnessed the incredible power of clay.  This ancient ritual can done on your both your hair and skin.  It's so easy: "Dissolve the Rhassul wash clay in warm water (first put water in a bowl, then mix in 3-4 tablespoons of wash clay), then leave it to thicken. Massage the viscous substance into the dampened hair, then leave it to do its work. Meanwhile, wash your body with the gel. Rinse off your hair and skin thoroughly with water." You'll be amazed at how clean and soft they feel after this opulent Moroccan Lava Clay treatment.

Tautropfen's Jalë  Orient Collection is anything but ordinary. Regular roses are just that - regular - from now on.

Make the Switch to All-Natural, Handcrafted Soap It Up Gourmet Soaps by Di

Recently, I realized that I had been buying some household, everyday products from the grocery or drugstore just because that's what I'd always done. But it would cost me less and be better for me and the earth if I bought natural products, so for the last few months, I've made the switch and I'm not going back!

For instance, instead of buying bars of chemical-ridden soap at the drugstore, I now look for natural ingredients and handcrafted by real folks, not machines.

Soap It Up are glycerin and goat's milk soaps that:

- are handcrafted and homemade

- are made of all natural ingredients

- are skin-safe

- are hypo-allergenic

- are available in different scents and varieties

- smell delicious

- look beautiful

- feel amazing (soft, moisturized skin is yours again!)

- are available for both men and women

- are insanely affordable!

I tried Beautiful, a perfume-scented glycerin soap made with palm and coconut oils.  Di came up with the perfect name, as it's the first word that comes to mind when you inhale the light, joyous scent. Also, the bar itself looks beautiful. The colour is like pink lemonade and really, what could be happier and more beautiful than that? This is one you'll buy over and over because it's absolutely perfect.

And Cherry Almond, a creamy goat's milk soap, is simply divine. It feels like you're bathing with moisturizer in one hand and a delectable pastry in the other. Now why would you want to buy drugstore soap when you can have this?

Shop the entire Soap It Up Collection and get gorgeous handmade soap that's good for you and will make you feel and smell good all day long!

Simplfy Your Life With Powermat Wireless Charging

Has your life become overrun with cables and wires?

Technology is wonderful, but the tangle of wires around my house drives me nuts, so I decided to declutter and simplify.

Powermat Wireless Charging Products allow you to keep your phones, cameras, mp3 players and whatever other gadgets you've got going on, charged and ready to go, but they are also:

- wireless so you have less cords to deal with  - thank you

- versatile so you can charge more than one item - because who has only one device these days?

- quick and easy to use, because you simply put your device down to begin charging - no plugging and unplugging

- darn smart as they emit a sound and light up to let you know it's charging, won't overcharge your device - hallelujah

- saves energy  as the auto shut off occurs when your device reaches full power - how many times have you left your device charging all night?

- small enough that they don't take up much room at all - goodbye cluttter!

First, select a Powermat Mat that suits you and your family's needs. I got the Powermat 2X Mat, which allows you to charge 2 devices with just one plug. The thin black mat is about the size of a postcard, so you can really put it anywhere. Just plug it in, drop your devices down and pick 'em up charged and ready to go - it's so easy!

Then select your Receiver. If you have a Blackberry Bold 9700 Series, this Receiver Door will allow you to wireless charge it with the mat of your choice. All you do, is replace your existing battery door with this receiver, and you can drop and charge at a moment's notice. Isn't that how charging should be?

If you have an iPhone, you can make it even easier! These Bundled Solutions are a complete wireless charging system - protective case with charging mat. Plug in the mat, put on the case and you never have to do anything but drop your phone down to charge.

Why are you still charging your devices the old-fashioned way when Powermat offers such an amazing solution to cord frenzy?

And because you don't always remember to charge your device when you need to (no one's perfect!), you're going to want to get yourself Portable Power. The power! Dual 1850 Rechargeable Backup Battery charges on your Powermat Mat and then allows you to keep your devices charged while on the go. And you can charge 2 devices at once, thanks to the convenient Apple connector and micro-usb.

Powermat's made it so easy to charge your devices, so you'll find yourself with charged gadgets more often and way more space at home, in the office and your luggage.

Shop the entire Powermat collection now.

Illumienate - The Most Stylish Way to Light Up a Room

Sometimes someone just gets it right on.

Danielle Ericsson's creation - Illumienate - takes candle holders that are covered in beautiful papers and images.  She makes them into wedding luminary table numbers, luminaria centerpieces, favors, votive place cards, votive wrap name cards, and lumie menus.

The best part is that she personalizes them, so whether you're doing a bridal shower, reception, baby shower, birthday, christening, or any kind of celebration, she will create a look that is completely customized to you and your event.

She even made me my own candle lumie with the knack logo and background!  And Danielle showed me ones that used photos of Tarzan and Jane, which made for memorable event, I'm sure!! 

I can't think of a better way of making an event really look and feel like your own - just look at all of the possibilities:

- these gorgeous deep Damask Love Lumies are classic and yet have a decidedly modern feel (perfect for a wedding or anniversary, don't you think?)

- the Perfect Centerpiece will make your wedding stand out from the crowd

- why use standard name/place cards when you can use these gorgeous Votive Wraps

You get the dramatic feel of the candle light and the customized look to match your special day. All beautifully - and carefully - wrapped. 

Sigh.

Illumienate's Luminaries are one of most beautiful, best finds I've ever come across and I don't think I'll ever want to have an event without them.

Yep, they are most definitely a must.

Shop now and forever be the envy of your friends, family and colleagues.

Get Whiter Teeth Without All the Fuss with Love That White Smile

I don't know how people can use those teeth whitening trays.  I can't keep them in my mouth. My gag reflex goes into overdrive, like it's 1990, after drinking and dancing the night away.

Those strips aren't much better. It's so damn uncomfortable and they rub and tear away at your gums and the side of your mouth. Ew.

That's why Love That White Smile is so amazing:

- no mess, no fuss

- no pain or discomfort

- no time-consuming methods of application

Usually, I use a gel from my drugstore, but Love That White Smile has a foam system that "penetrates the surface of the teeth." That means it's really getting in there, cleaning and whitening in all the little bumps and grooves.  It's not just bleaching your teeth, but actually removing the stains.

That's quite the difference, wouldn't you say?

Their product line consists of 4 awesome items that will give you that Hollywood smile that you've always wanted.

Start with Love That White Smile Cleaning and Whitening Foam.  It's a 2-step system, but don't worry - it's ridiculously easy to use. Just brush your teeth as you normally would, then do 1 full pump from bottle 1 and 1 full pump from bottle 2. You brush your teeth for a minimum of 60 seconds and you're done. You'll see whiter teeth after just 3 days!

I like it because it's damn easy to use, it's fast and it's really gentle - your gums don't hurt, your teeth aren't sensitive... In other words, you can live your life AND have whiter teeth.

When you're done with the Cleaning and Whitening Foam system, move onto the Maintenance Foam. This one's damn easy to use too - just 2 full pumps and brush for 60 secs after brushing with your regular toothpaste. Your teeth will stay white, without having to do anything but this one step. How freakin' great is that?!

I looove the On-the-Go Cleaning Pen! You just brush it on and voila - whiter teeth, fresher breath. Good lord is this wonderful. This is one of those things that once you find it, you can't live without it.

And for those hot dates and nights on the town, you've simply got to have Love That White Smile Tooth & Lip Gloss tucked into your clutch. The tooth gloss is fantastic because it not only makes your teeth whiter and brighter, but it protects them against stains as well as gloss and lipstick, so you never have to worry about having an embarrassing smudge across your teeth ever again!  And of course, you'll love the lip gloss because it feels great and the light reflecting agents make your smile completely and utterly dazzling. As if that's not enough, it plumps your lips too.  Both glosses are minty and refreshing, so you can get as up close and personal as you like.

If you want white teeth without it a) costing an arm and leg, b) being uncomfortable and c) taking forever, then get yourself Love That White Smile.

Find out where to get it near you.

Get Smooth, Shiny Hair With Creative Professional's Hand-Crafted Combs

Sometimes it's the simplest things that much such a difference.

If you use a comb, you probably use it every day. Now try to imagine not being able to comb your hair. So it's as important as your cuppa coffee and your phone, but I bet you wouldn't have thought of it that way until now.

That's why you shouldn't be using just any ol' comb. You should have the very best.

As in Creative Professional's Handmade Tortoise Comb.

This unbelievable find is "sawcut from a single sheet of high quality Italian produced cellulose (cotton) acetate and its teeth gently rounded."  So no, no tortoises were harmed to make this gorgeous tool, and it won't snag or catch your hair like most combs. 

Creative Professional Combs are made to protect your hair. Cellulose acetate is a non-petroleum based plastic that you usually see used for glasses frames. And it turns out that this material is a natural non-irritant to skin and resists static, so why would you use anything?

It is durable, not to mention damn beautiful.

Why should people who use brushes get all of the beautiful hair tools?

Shop Creative Professional's Handmade Combs now.

Maroma's Natural Home Fragrances Make A Wonderful Holiday Gift

It drives me crazy when I see people loading up with soaps and candles from those places in the mall. It just seems so unoriginal.  And those scents? Smelling like candy canes is not natural.

That's why I recommend Maroma's Natural Home Fragrances.

I like them because they everything is made with botanical extracts and contain no toxic or harmful ingredients. They also follow environmentally responsible manufacturing practices, so you can feel good about using them and giving them this holiday season.

The essential oils used in their home products don't just smell good - they are formulated to clear and refresh the air.  And the fragrances to choose from are incredible, all at incredibly inexpensive prices, so you can afford to outfit your home as well as those on your holiday list. Take a look at what I've tried so far:

I love the large range of incense Maroma offers. I especially like their SPA line that includes not only fragrances but the therapeutic effects that go along with it. Each box of 10 includes a small incense holder (I love that!) and each stickburns for 30 minutes, allowing you the peace and calm that you need in this hectic world. New Energy is lively with its blend of Orange, Lemon, Basil, Peppermint, Lavender, Cubeb and Rosemary. And Pure Air is a wonderful blend of Pine, Vetyver, Eucalyptus Globulus, Basil, Bergamot and Spearmint that really helps make the place feel fresh, even with the windows closed.

I've never used cone incense before, but I am captivated by Devi Incense (pictured above). Blended with natural essential oils, these cones contains sandalwood powder and tree bark powder as a natural binder. What is amazing about cones versus sticks is that the ash of the cone stays in place, so you don't have to worry about any cleanup. I tried the Audacity Fragrance, which is a wonderful whirlwind of Vanilla with Jasmine, Cedrat and Mandarin. You get 12 cones plus a holder in this set. What a great gift or stocking stuffer!

And for a rich feel, I love Maroma Men's Incense. Tonka Vetiver is so sexy and alluring.

If incense isn't really your thing, Encens d'Auroville Perfume Sachets are a lovely way to bring soft fragrance into your home.  There are small squares that you can tuck in between your linens or in a drawer or sachets with paper hooks that makes it easy to bring a fresh scent to your closet, car or laundry room. Blended with natural essential oils that are infused into fine sandalwood powder then packaged in handmade paper pouches, these are a lovely way to say thanks this holiday as well as freshen the house before company arrives. I fell for Orange Blossom, Rosewood, Fragipani, Rose and Neroli.

Candles are a wonderful way to bring a scent indoors this season. Maroma's are made from 100% renewable resource farmed palm wax that gives you 24 hours of clean burn time with no smoke, soot, petroleum based residue or overriding wax odor. The wick is made of cotton and completely self-trimming. The Luminary cup and packaging are made from recycled natural materials
and the Luminary wrap is from harvested banana fiber. Once you've used up the candle, the cup can be used for tealight candles or for anything else you like. These cups are way too pretty not to showcase somewhere in the house. 

And the scents! I love the deep notes of Maroma Men's Cedar Lavender. And Maroma's Green-light Spicy Mandarin is a great choice for this time of year. The originality of Pear d'Anjou is so delightful. Just try getting anything like these fragrances at the mall.

Soap is a very popular gift at this time of year, but you'll stand out from the crowd with these Maroma blends:  

Spa soaps are 100% natural, made with certified organic soap base, with no added dyes or any synthetic fragrance. They have been triple milled, making quite the luxe gift without the hefty price tag. I think the Tranquility blend is an excellent way to unwind this holiday. 

Maroma True Soaps and Bath Salts contain no dyes, preservatives or artificial additives. I love the energy of Lemongrass. With Mango Butter, Lemongrass Leaf Powder, Lemongrass Oil, Gingergrass Oil and Palmarosa Oil, your body will be drenched in deep moisture. And for a more soothing feel, indulge in the Lavender Soap and Bath Salts.

You don't have to be a man to enjoy using Maroma Men Soap. There is the relaxing Cedar Lavender, invigorating Tonka Vetiver and the exfoliating Olibanum Citrus that uses walnut shell powder to rid you of any dry skin.

Whether you're buying Secret Santa gifts or just wanting to infuse your home with a little added warmth this season,  shop Maroma.

Brighten Up Your Kitchen With Jangneus Design's Colourful Eco Cloths!

With all this gray weather, you'll want to inject a little bit of life into the indoors.

My newest discovery? Jangneus Design's Eco Cloths!

This type of cloth has been used in Swedish kitchens since the 1950s, but they are relatively new to us in North America.

They are completely addictive and you'll wonder how you lived without them for this long.  Made from cellulose and recycled cotton, they are 100% biodegradable, but not at all flimsy. These beauties are incredibly absorbent, but won't stay wet and get smelly like those ones you've used in the past. And thanks to being actually machine-washable, you can use them again and again.

And you'll want to with these gorgeous patterns and colours - finally a cloth that is as modern as your kitchen! 

Printed by hand locally in the Cotswolds, the Jangneus Design Cloths don't have to stay in the kitchen. Feel free to use them to keep your bedroom, bathroom or wherever you like to keep things clean and tidy.

The best part? They look so pretty, no one will notice those dust bunnies in the corner!

Shop the Jangneus Design Cloths Collection now and bring a little Sweden into your home. You can also subscribe and get a new one delivered every month.

Get Hollywood Hair with Rowenta's Amazing Infini Pro Auto Sensor Dryer

I'm embarrassed to tell you this, but we've known one another for awhile now and you won't tell anyone, right?

For the past 2 decades, I have been using hair dryers that were designed in the 70s. They have huge brush attachments that stick out and the air that it produces is so hot that it heats my earrings to such a temperature, that you burn yourself if you touch them.

You can imagine how healthy it is then, for my chemically-processed hair and thin, pink scalp.

I used it because I have crazy hair, and the brush attachment allowed me to control it - at least a little bit.

But they've stopped making them and after this many years and all that damage to my hair, I knew I'd have to get something new.

I comparison shopped for a long, long time and found the cream of the crop - the Rowenta Infini Pro Auto Sensor Dryer.

Just the look and feel of it alone says what professional quality it is. 

It feels so good in the hand and is sleek enough to manage, no matter what style you are creating.

Because my old dryer ran so burning hot, I was thilled to have my hair dry more quickly with warm air! On average, the Infiniti Pro delivers 35% more airflow, resulting in faster drying time (It was also nice not to feel my scalp burning anymore).

And thanks to the ceramic coating, it produces infrared heat, which does not overdry or damage hair (using 1875W of power). And its advanced Ionic system prevents static and frizz, which means my hair looks and feels so much better - healthy, smooth shiny. And that's just with the drying alone!

You can change up your style by simply attaching the diffuser (it evenly distributes heat and allows you to create waves and curls - with no frizzing! - in mere minutes) or the ultra thin concentrator that gives you the straight, sleek hair that you crave.

It's no wonder its the tool of choice for pros.

My hair has never looked or felt better. It gives me red carpet, award-show hair when really, without the dryer, it's more dim-the-lights kind of hair.

What more proof do you need?

Get one now.

Your Home and Office Just Isn't Complete Without Socket Sense Surge Protector!

We live in an older building, so we have very few sockets to work with.

It wasn't an issue when we moved in, but over the years, we've added to our technology tenfold, so now the sockets are all used up.

We bought some extension cords to try and remedy the problem, but have you seen the plugs that come with computers nowadays?  Everything has got a power adapter.

So our extension cords barely made a difference because we'd have to skip a socket in order to make our power adapters fit onto the strip.

Thank goodness for the ingenious Socket Sense Surge Protector!

It has many features to love:

First of all, you can expand or contract the movable sockets (6 outlets) to suit your needs. So, no matter how tight a fit you've got in behind that bookshelf or below your desk, you can manage you technology for once with ease - and only using one strip, instead of the usual 2 or 3!

The 6-foot cord  (or 3 or 12 foot) gives you the leeway you need to get in, around and under your furniture and you can organize your cables easily between each movable socket.  Which I appreciate as we've got old pieces mixed in with new, so it's tight back there! Keyhole slots allow you to mount it on the wall if you like (we're not that fancy, but kudos if you are!).

The surge protection offers you 2100 Joules of protection (a lot), which is great, considering both Scott and I had our computers going as well as all the other stuff (printer, Xbox, stereo, phones) and our power has gone off 3 times in the last month.

Which is why you'll be pleased to have the Status LEDs. Red and green indicators allow you to see the status immediately of the surge and ground.

Socket Sense is guaranteed to fit any power adapter on the market, or your money back.

I think every household should have at least one of these. 

And if you're house is like ours, you'll want at least a couple.

Buy yours now!

Make the Switch to Better For GrownUps Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues

This year I want to make some changes in how I do things.  

I vigorously recycle and compost at home, and donate my clothes on a regular basis.  

But there's got to be something more...

Better For GrownUps has a host of products that can help and their Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues are a great place to start. 

The first to love about them is that they are soft (Fair Trade & Certified Organic cotton), so you'll actual want to use them.  Who wouldn't rather feel sateen against their skin than paper?  And while soft, these little guys are strong, so go ahead and sneeze right into 'em - they can take it!  

The box they come in is smart - your tissues are dispensed just like the traditional ones you've been using up until now, but there is a drawer compartment built into this one, that allows you to discard your used tissues with ease.  Then just toss them into the wash with the rest of your laundry. It's that easy!

You get 12 tissues to start and refill packs are available.  

Switching to Better for GrownUps Reusable Organic Cotton Tissues is a change you can feel good about.

See what else you can do.

Stock Up On Art by Labokoff - Fine Art Prints of Gorgeous Photos

I know that art is subjective.

But I have a feeling that you are going to swoon over the moody beauty of the art prints of Rivory Fabienne at Art by Labokoff just as I did.

There is a stillness and fragility to her scenes, but also great beauty and grace.

She categorizes them for your shopping pleasure by colour and subject - Red Pink Mauve, Neutral Shades, Blue and Skies, Pole Series, Seashore, Bursts of Yellow, A Little Green, White Series and Original Artwork - so now you have no excuse for not being able to find anything to match your magenta guest bathroom!

I can tell you what's going to happen, though.

You're going to buy a bunch of these for presents (they make a wonderful, thoughtful gift, don't they) and then they're going to arrive and you're going to frame them and put 'em up in your own place, because you can't possibly bear to let them go.

I know, because that's precisely what happened to me.

Just look at Abricotier (pictured above) It's a print of an original photograph combined with painting, printed on Hahnemuhle velvet fine art stock using archival pigment ink and signed on the back.

Tell me that you can just give it away.

Nu uh.

Isn't going to happen.

That's why you've got to buy at least TWO OF EVERYTHING here at Art by Labokoff!

I like the quiet sparseness of Pole Rose and the depth and darkness of Pole Prune. And
Pole Orange is so evocative, I think I'm remembering childhood vacations I never took.

I told you these were good.

Buy 'em up, folks, because art like this is worth waay more than you're being charged for and you're going to need at least one for every room.

Ahh, make that two...

Discover Bodycology's Perfect for Summer Cherry Blossom Collection

Back in March, I wrote about Bodycology's amazing bath and body products.

I have just tried their Cherry Blossom Collection and had to tell you all about it - it's amazing!

The scent is soooo pretty - a little floral, a touch of sweet cherry - and so yummy that you'll be sneaking sniffs of your arms and shoulders throughout the day. At least, that's what I've been doing...

I start my day off with Bodycology's Cherry Blossom Shower Gel & Foaming Bath. The thick, pearly white gel gives a nice rich foam and lather, making you smell good and feel really, really clean. I love how it slides over your skin, hydrating while you go, with good-for-you ingredients like honey and aloe vera.

Right outta the shower, I apply Cherry Blossom Body Cream. I prefer creams that sink right into your skin, which this one most certainly does. Shea butter, aloe vera and vitamins C & E drench your skin with moisture. Just watch those dry heels look smooth in an instant and you'll notice that at no time during the day does your skin suddenly parch, like with those drugstore brands that claim to nourish your skin throughout the day.

Nu uh. Not like this, they don't.

And because the scent really is so intoxicating and enveloping, you'll want to finish layering the scent with Cherry Blossom Body Mist. This delicate spray gives you just a hint of fragrance, not at all overpowering that softens over time. And during this crazy summer weather, it's a nice refresher and cool down from the intense heat.

I told you it was good!

You can buy these all individually or in the 3-Piece Gift Set.

Either way, you're going to love it.

Detox in the Bath with Ina Crystals!

I've always wanted to do a detox, but being a restaurant reviewer and food writer, it's hard not to eat for 2 or 3 days!

Plus, frankly, it doesn't sound like a ton of fun.

However, I think I've found a wonderful solution - Ina Crystals White Gold Detox Bath Crystals!

Sitting in a luxurious bath, soothing my muscles and calming my mind sounds like a vacation, not a detox, doesn't it?

Ahhh. So luxurious!

Here's how it works:

Minerals are trapped inside the amazing crystal salt, but are small enough to penetrate the human cells and then be absorbed. The white gold crystal salt is blended with detoxifiers such as basil, fennel and juniper essential oils, so you get rid of internal toxins and impurities.

Ina Crystals says that it has "been proven to be equivalent to a 3 day detox diet."

Holy #@!*

And that's not all. The scent of basil, fennel and juniper is so lovely and clean smelling, you're going to want to get into the tub as soon as it arrives!

It's recommended to use the entire container and let the crystals dissolve and then fill the tub with water at body temperature. Then you soak for 30 minutes, allowing all of the buildup of toxins. Oh, and in case that's enough it helps with mild cases of eczema and psoriasis, backaches, stiff joints, insomnia and improves blood circulation.

Not only is this a fanfreakintastic gift, but just imagine - getting rid of all that stuff that your body's been carrying around all these years.

You're going to look and feel a-m-a-z-i-n-g and you get 30 minutes away from all the stresses of your day.

I hope that they sell this by the kilo...

Never Forget Anything Ever Again With AquaNotes Waterproof Notepads

I know you're all about your iPad and you tweet like crazy, but you can't take your technology into the shower with you.

Not yet, anyway.

So in the meantime, you're going to want to have AquaNotes Waterproof Notepads in your bathroom.

I know you. You've got so many things going on, there's no way to keep it all straight in your head. You're brushing your teeth and thinking about the perfect opening for your meeting today. You'll be in the shower and all of a sudden that it's Aunt Heather's birthday this week and if you don't go and get a card today and send it this afternoon, it will never make it there on time.

I know, because all day long I have these things go through my head. And not always while I'm at my desk where my laptop and pads and pens handily reside. Or while I've got my smartphone ready to take down all my latest lists and ideas.

So, while you're in the shower, thinking about all that you've got to do, you won't believe how freakin' handy AquaNotes Waterproof Notepads come in handy.

Suction cups on both the notepad and pencil keep it secure and the waterproof paper captures your idea before it's too late and while the water is still whooshing over your head! And each 3.5 by 5.25 inch pad has 40 sheets of paper, with each sheet is perforated for easy removal.

My favourite feature, other than saving me from having struggle to remember everything, is that the waterproof paper is "totally recyclable, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic. Each pencil is water resistant and is made with Incense Cedar wood, a responsibly harvested renewable resource meeting stringent environmental requirements. Even the ink used to print the logo and company information on the notepad is soy based.

So write down your ideas, thoughts and if you're like me, lists, and get it all outta your head.

And for once you'll be able to get out of the shower feeling ahead of schedule.

Ahhh!

p.s. This would be a great gift for Dad this Father's Day.