Theom Design's Measuring Tape Ring is Oh So Couture

I am very particular about the jewelry I wear. I don't like to wear pieces that you can find just anywhere. I like to seek out individuals who are doing something a little different.

Theom Designs by Menelaos Theodosiades out of Cyprus, does extraordinary work. Menalaos is both an Interior and Fashion Designer, so one day he is designing the exterior off a restaurant and the next, he's making fascinating jewelry and clothing.

Check out the amazing photos of his chairs, Granny Bag and necklaces, to mention just a few items.

My favourite pieces are his rings because when I wear jewelry, I like to rock a big statement piece and let it be the focus of my ensemble.

This stunning measuring tape ring (pictured above) stands high on my finger. It's like a bouquet, really, or fireworks that move with your every gesture. It says, "I love fashion and I'm not afraid to stand on the outer edges to prove it." It screams, "I know what I like and this is it." It alights when I raise my glass of wine or when I reach to shake someone's hand. It shimmies and shakes when I dance and it remains in the spotlight no matter how dim the lights.

Want to be noticed? Then get yourself  Theom Design Jewelry. Because there's nothing else like it.

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!

Pack the Prettiest Lunch with Urban Harmonie's Reusable Lunchbags

For a short while, I actually went to an office instead of working here at my desk at the end of my bed.

Working outside the home has many challenges that don't occur here - there's the commute, people other than your cat to talk to and lunch options.

At home, I eat whenever and make whatever, depending upon my time and mood. When you work in an office, you have limited options. And where I was working, there wasn't much around to choose from, so I packed my lunch.

The problem I had was:

1. I could never find a bag cute enough to carry, so I ended up using ugly plastic bags

2. I could never find one big enough to hold my various containers of carrots, crackers, salads and whatever else I trucked in to hold me over for the day

So you can imagine my immense delight when I happened upon Urban Harmonie!

Made with the environment in mind, these delightful lunch bags and snack bags do not contain PVC, phthalates, BPA, lead or formaldehyde. Creator Vicki Davidson says, "The loops and handles on the lunch bags are made from our scrap fabric, we reuse old buttons  and we use only Kraft boxes and envelopes for shipping which can either be reused or recycled."

 

The fabric used are quality quilting cottons "coated to create a durable, water-resistant, easy to clean surface." The interior of the bags use Pro Care Barrier Fabric.  This makes it waterproof and extremely durable. And to clean your sweet l'il bag, you simply need only wipe it with a cloth and hang it to dry!

And let's talk about these fabrics, because you won't find anything cuter than In The City, Kittens and Fun Times. If you like patterns, you'll swoon for Avocado Damask, Lotus and Retro Wave.

The detail and care of these Canadian-made bags is extraordinary. Aside from the fun fabrics, you then have to think about what size you need. Do you want a strap, loop or both? Do you like it short, tall or bento shaped? There is so much to choose from!

I went with the truly awesome Pop Art Tall Boxed Lunch Bag (pictured above). I am a huge Roy Lichtenstein fan, so this bag makes me very, very happy. It also allows me to pack a whack of food (which let's face it, as a food writer, I'm not subsisting on grapes alone...). There is also an insert included, a little bamboo fibre tray that fits perfectly into the bottom, giving the bag a smidge more stability and strength. I also like that it gives a very flat bottom so that my various eats don't slip and slide while I'm navigating my way through subway crowds, etc. The insert is made without chemicals or fertilizers and does not absorb liquids or fibres. When you're done with it, place it in your compost. It will degrade 45-90 later.

I'll let you in on a little secret. Even though I'm back at home, I still pack my lunch in this cutie. And now I take food with me wherever I happen to go.

Because a bag this cute should not be left at home where no one can see or enjoy it.

Shop the entire Urban Harmonie Collection now.

Envelop Yourself In Gorgeous Handcrafted Scents from D.S. & Durga

Want something a little different to wear this season?

D.S. & Durga offers handcrafted perfumes and colognes, made in small batches.  But it's a little more intimate than that. See, D.S. and Durga are two people who craft, bottle, box and label everything themselves, so you get a real old-world kind of feel to their work.

Inspired by "antiquated herbal wisdom, native ritual medicine, Americana, outdated lore, geography, history and gastronomy," these are deep scents that reach back into history and come out with a modern edge.

Take Cowgirl Grass, for instance. It's an earthy scent for the fellas, but I like the leathery manly tangle of vetyver, sagebrush, damask rose and tuberose. So much so that I'm wearing it. Because it's not too hefty for a lass like myself to wear.  It smells of old books, wool sweaters and booksmart gents, which makes me happy from head to toe, though it's probably more of an ode to Cowboys and Indians, I imagine.

Silent Grove is one of the most original fragrances I've ever come across and one of my favourite of all time, all fragrances. This one's for us ladies, and thank goodness, because I cannot get enough of this one.  Linden, cedar, lotus and white tea coalesce into a modern spring day at the park, a bright breeze off the lake and a night up at the cottage. It makes me want to do a cartwheel, which I can't manage in the least, but I might be spurred on simply by the joy D.S. & Durga have captured and bottled. 

Osmanthus Cologne embodies the floral colognes that were worn by men until WWII. You'll be surprised by how light and enticing classic cologne water - citrus, orange blossom, rosemary and lavender - pairs with rare Australian osmanthus flower is. Yep, us girls are going to be scooping  this one up too.

The names of these fragrances are as fresh and unique as the blends themselves, so do the smart thing and shop the entire D.S. & Durga Collection now.

Handcrafted Lily Organics Are Made Fresh on the Farm!

It's not often that you find skincare products as fresh as this: Lily Organics is a certified organic farm, where fresh products are mixed and made by hand every week, without the use of any synthetic chemicals.

The result is gorgeous, clear skin!

I started with the gentle, yet effective Nourishing Facial Cleanser. Using only pure, natural ingredients such as Lily's homemade almond oil soap, lemon juice, vitamin E and witch hazel, your skin will no only feel clean, but pampered.

I love the tea-coloured Balancing Facial Toner because my face brightened immediately. Thanks to goodies such as certified organic eucalyptus, white ginseng and pure sage and lavender essentials oils, your skin feels soothed and invigorated.

Balancing Facial Lotion is like none I've ever seen or used before - using beeswax, primrose oil, bee propolis and other exciting ingredients, it is like treating your skin to a rich buffet of wholehearted goodness! Just imagine how good you'll look and feel feeding your skin such natural ingredients. Be careful though, it smells so delicious, you're going to want to eat it!

And for those times when you need a little pick me up, you've got to try the Rejuvenating Enzyme Mask! It smells like molasses (though it's not an ingredient) and enriches your skin with honey, papaya, pineapple and other whole ingredients. Your skin will feel like it's been on vacation and finished with a spa treatment!

My skin is radiant, thanks to Lily! 

Let Mother Nature, not scientists, give you gorgeous skin.

Shop Lily Organics Skincare now.

Discover PriaVanda's Gorgeous Handmade, Handwoven Day Planners on Etsy!

I know what you're thinking.

Here it is February 1st and you haven't done all the things you said you'd do. You made plans in your head, but you didn't follow through with them. It's too late. The moment has passed.

WRONG!

It's never too late. And who says that you have to be all ready and motivated on January 1st, after weeks of either overindulging or feeling guilty for not completing everything that has to be done?

Nuh uh. You can start right now.

And the best place to start is with the prettiest planner on the block by PriaVanda.

Using satin ribbons and a unique technique to basket weave her handcrafted products, New York designer PriaVanda has found the perfect medium to create the structure for her line.

PriaVanda says, "I began weaving ribbons through plain bamboo mats to dress them up and was suddenly inspired to add this touch to everyday items. I was drawn to stationery because I cannot live without my day planner and that was the first product I created. The line grew from there."

The line includes address books, day planners, journals, notebooks and to do list pads.

The best thing is that she makes these necessities of our daily lives so damn gorgeous and usable that you'll want to use them ALL THE TIME and you'll wonder what you were doing using those ugly black vinyl ones from the office supply stores all the years. 

I knew as soon as I saw the Handmade Weekly Day Planner, that I'd found the perfect system - an organizer to help keep my crazy life straight that's enhances my desktop. I mean a planner this stylish has got to be on display at all times. Or kept in your bag, so you can show it off while you're out and about!

I got the Handmade Diagonal Weekly Day Planner (pictured above) with the most stunning pinks and grays. It comes in a range of colours - blues and browns, orange and black, pinks and browns, blues and grays, black and gold or choose your own colours. How's that for personalized?! And it gets better - start with any month that you want.  Who says you have to start Jan 1st like the rest of the world? Begin with the month of your choosing and your year will follow from there.  Finally, a calendar that works on your schedule, not anyone else's. 

The covers are made from thick, sturdy cardboard, so it won't be all flimsy like those ones you've had in the past. The front is covered in satin ribbons and the back gets covered in paper matching your selection.  The hard wire binding keeps everything neatly together and allows you to not only use the book completely flat, but you can also flip the front cover over and use just one side of the book at a time - great for when you want to use it on the train, in a small cafe, etc.

The monthly pages (one month over two pages) have good size boxes that allow you to plan and schedule ahead. And the weekly pages (one week on two pages) are set up brilliantly - your appointments go in the boxes on the left and your to do list is on the right. With this system, you simply fill in the blanks, so there's no messiness, no trying to scrutinize your notes to see what you wrote is a to do or a place to be. It's all neatly laid out for you. It's genius.

You also get:

- Monthly & weekly motivational quotes

- Notes section

- 2 year reference calendar

- Important holidays

- To do list

- Ribbon bookmark in matching colour

- Integrated folder in matching color

And because the pages are printed on 28lb. acid-free archival paper, you can use fine pens and markers without them bleeding through to the other side, so colour code and highlight your life (I do!).

You can further personalize your Day Planner with the your name. Doesn't that make for a nice gift?

You are going to have to write down your appointments and things to do anyway - why not do it somewhere that makes you happy?

Order your PriaVanda Day Planner now.

Your year starts 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.

Keep Every Hair in Place With Sweaty Bands

I don't work out like I used to (4 times a week at a fitness club). Instead, now I walk an hour a day (if not more), mop our floors, lug home big bags of groceries in which to feed my cooking habit and generally work myself to the bone each and every week just trying to keep up with life.

So when I came across Sweaty Bands, I thought of a bunch of instances where they would come in handy:

- cleaning my house

- running errands

- washing my face before bed

- putting on a face mask

- going out for a walk (if you run or walk the dog, these would be perfect) 

See, they are designed to keep you looking good, even while you sweat, so you can live your life, stylishly, while you run around just trying to keep up with all you have to do.

I like that Sweaty Bands are handmade, comfortable to wear (a velvety backing keeps it feeling soft and from falling out of place) and you can choose different styles, patterns and even widths!

I love the boldness of Scroll Down Your Playlist.  Mine is similar, but has a navy background with pink x's and white pattern.  And because it's so wide and colourful, it really stands out.  

And Argyles Are For Crumpin' Skinny is a nice preppy classic. Mine is shades of blue with white, which works in every season.

Whether you're lifting weights at the gym or picking up your dry cleaning, you want to look snappy and pulled together. Sweaty Bands can help you do that, all without ever sliding out of place.

Because frankly, don't you have enough to do?

Shop the entire Sweaty Bands Collection now.

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.

Go Get Yourself Some Beauitful Minimalist Jewelry from h. sakurai

For many, 2010 was all about cutting back, paring down and simplifying.

I can't think of a better way to celebrate than with h. sakurai jewelry!

As much as I admire bold jewelry, I am always drawn back to fine, delicate jewelry. Like the work of Hiroko Sakurai, you have to lean in close. Then you're rewarded wiith the surprise of the intricate detail and craftsmanship.

Like these gorgeous odes to New York. The iconic skyline has never looked prettier. And these necklaces with their featherish designs are so compelling, I bet you will wear them all the time.

I'm rockin' the Lucky dice necklace and matching earrings, which are a perfect way to ring in the new year - bring on the luck!

These earrings (pictured above) are little beauties and just a bit edgy. Plus, they are so much more enticing and original those fake diamond studs I've been wearing for years. And I love the unexpectedness and as a result, freshness of the silver die on gold chain. It gives it such a modern look and thus, updates my whole wardrobe in an instant.

You don't have to wear big, chunky jewelry to make a statement.

In fact, I think these say much more. 

Shop the entire h. sakurai collection now.

Give Original, Gorgeous, Handmade Jewelry This Holiday From Tweak!

I am always on the lookout for cool jewelry, but truthfully, it's hard to find unique stuff that's affordable.

So when I stumbled upon Tweak, I was thrilled!

Ontario designer Caroline Bruce has created a line of stunning jewelry with each piece being carefully hand selected and crafted and completely one-of-a-kind.

I was able to visit her pop-up shop of sorts when she was in Toronto this month and perused through her incredible collection that showcases her immense talent of choosing stones that complement and contrast one another beautifully.

I love that she uses different stones snugged next to one another - the different shapes, textures and colours make for very modern pieces that have staying power. And because there are so many colours to play off of, you can wear them with virtually anything. Whether you're dressing up for cocktails or heading out for brunch with friends in t-shirt and jeans, Tweak makes you look put together in an instant.

I am immediately drawn to the awesome off-centre stylings of the Fuss Collection, Asymmetrical Pendants and Hooked, complete with gorgeous fish.

I cannot help but pick up a Collage Bracelet.  Mine is a mix of dark blues, grays and clear natural stones and beads (Jasper, Soldalite, Osbidian, Chinese Crystal, Faceted Glass, Web Jasper, Lapis Lazuli and Glass, to be exact). Oh, I just love it. And each bracelet is finished with a magnetic clasp, so you don't have to wait until someone's around to help you to put it on!

The Quintet Collection has something for everyone. Each necklace has 5 different stones, so you can ramp up your wardrobe with just this one statement piece. I love the pastels in this one (pictured above) but I went with something a little edgier. Very similar to this necklace, I got one with a medley of dark greys and a hit of lemon-lime (Olive Jade, Dalmatian Jasper, Porcelain, Chinese Crystal and Pyrite). It is classy enough to wear to work, but works as a rockin' accessory to my after 5 clothes.

I don't know how Caroline came up with it, but I absolutely, wholeheartedly can't get enough of the Duet Collection. Two very different pieces juxtaposed on a shiny silver strand - I think it's so damn sexy! I love the look of mine (similar to those shown)- Striped Agate with Crystal Quartz and Olive Jade.  I wore it to dinner with a friend recently and she mentioned how much she liked it - twice!

Caroline says, "At the risk of sounding trite, I have to confess that I really fall in love with every piece I make,” says Caroline. "I want a woman to see a piece of my jewelry, fall in love with it and not be able to stop herself from wearing it three days in a row! That’s the greatest compliment for me.  

“I try not to make anything I could go out and buy. If I have an idea and then see something similar in a magazine or online, I throw it out or alter it to make it into something totally me. I know there are very few new ideas left in the world of jewelry, but I like to think that my colour combinations, compositions and use of materials are at least somewhat unique.” 

And because I know this means as much to me as it does you, the finishing clasp on her necklaces are simple and beautiful and make it incredibly easy to take it on and off. Caroline also will custom make you pieces, but don't worry - no pieces are ever exactly alike, so you are guaranteed to have something that no one else will have, at no extra cost! How incredible is that?  And she always packages everything beautifully and encloses a list of all the stones and beads for your particular pieces. It's that kind of personal touch that you just can't help but fall in love with.

I've fallen hard for Tweak. I know you have too. Shop now and make this holiday one they won't ever forget.

p.s. If you don't know which style to get, buy a gift certificate and let them pick it out themselves.

Discover the Awesomeness of Robot Luv and Pass It On!

There are some people that are just able to capture a feeling onto paper or clothing.

Carrie Masters of Robot Luv has created a line of clothes, patches, totes, lamps and other fun stuff that are whimsical, fun and downright awe-inspiring (You can also shop her collection at her Etsy storefront where you can also shop additional items such as cards, puzzles and knitted accessories).

Robot Luv lamps bring a bit of fun into the study or living room.  And her totes make me smile - how can errands be dull when you've got a cute bag like these?!

Gosh, she's got a great style, doesn't she? It's no wonder I want to cover myself head to toe in Robot Luv gear!

It's easy to shop for the music lover on your list here - How About A Little Moog Music Tee and I Heart Indie Music Tee makes a fun and original gift. And I adore the Airstream Camper Tee. How fun is that?! The tees are "vintage soft" which means they are 100% cotton and feel like you've worn it in already. Ooh, they are amazing!

And to keep you stylin', you\re going to want these incredible patches. I got the Boston Terrier Side View Patch (pictured above) to put on my winter coat, which will make my coat the cutest coat E-V-E-R! You can select from a whole whack of 'em - one for everyone on your list! Isn't that a great gift?!

And to go with all those gifts, you should pick up some greeting cards while you're at it too. It doesn't get much better than these.

It's not too late to get the most amazing holiday gifts  - Shop Robot Luv now!

Give a Fair Trade Gift This Season From Ten Thousand Villages

Fair Trade products are handcrafted from sustainable materials using environmentally-friendly methods.

Ten Thousand Villages have been providing vital, fair income to people in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East by selling their handicrafts and telling their stories since 1946.

In 2011, Ten Thousand Villages will be celebrating its 65th anniversary, making it Canada's largest and oldest Fair Trade organizations.

Ten Thousand Villages Stores are staffed in part by volunteers, but please feel free to shop online if you like (I like going to the store in my neighbourhood as it is welcoming and warm and happens to be just around the corner - there are 49 stores across Canada). You can shop for handcrafted jewelry, personal accessories, home decor, textiles, skin care, food products, toys and instruments as well as many other items. For each items, there is printed product information so your gift comes with a real story.

For Christmas, there are amazing decoration and ornaments to select from, as well as unique Nativity Scenes. They even have a Stocking Stuffers category, to make shopping that much easier for you.

If you're really stuck for what to choose, try these lists: Gifts for Him, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Kids, Gifts for the Hostess, Gifts for Teachers and Corporate Gift Ideas.

Here are some of my favourite picks:

- Coiled Paper Ball Ornaments add so much colour to the tree.

- I'm a big fan of Putumayo CDs.

- The Tea Holder/Box makes your tea a little extra special.

- Embossed Boxes can transform into a beautiful and meaningful  memory box.

- What a statement piece! I love the Black Metal Lamp and Shade.

- The Blue Tibetan Wool Accent Rug (pictured above) will be something they cherish forever.

- I am fascinated by the Himalayan Calendar and 40-Year Calendar.

- The Hogla Leaf Storage Stool is 2 gifts in one - nice!

- Ooh, I love the Handwoven Grey Silk Scarf.

- Give the gift of an indoor garden with the Ceramic Herb Pots (3 Pieces).

- Blow their minds with the Upside Down Map.

And for the food lover on your list, these cookbooks are a great gift that keeps on giving and the Black Horn Salad Servers are a classy gift. The Eight Piece Ceramic Sushi Set is simply fabulous and the Elegant Olive Wood Cutting Board is a cook's dream.

Two other wonderful options are Gift Cards and Living Gifts.

It's easy to see why it pays to shop at Ten Thousand Villages.

Shop now and make this holiday a meaningful, memorable one.

Need a Great Gift This Holiday Season? Shop Button Ups by Chelsea & Kerry for Beautiful Home and Office Decor!

I am not a fancy girl by any means, but I do like everything to be pretty.

From my wardrobe to my office, I like everything to be a little nugget of special: scarves shouldn't be plain in design or colour, stick it notes have to be in a pleasing shade or shape, my calendar can't be solely utilitarian (read: ugly) and my laptop is always covered in a striking image.

So when I saw Button Ups by Chelsea and Kerry, I knew I'd found design mavens that got that your work/home/live space needs to be as pretty as your jewelry, shoes, etc.!

This Canadian duo specialize in handmade bulletin boards "created with refurbished antique frames and decorated cork." They also create amazing Antique Button Push Pins (that come on teeny little bulletin board cutouts, pictured above - no need to wrap them!) and Antique Button Magnet Sets.

The pictures on the site just don't do these buttons and boards justice - they are so beautiful. Like little gems. And you can finally get rid of those hideous plastic things you've been using to hold up your postcards, photos, notes and other important documents on your wall.

And here's the thing - everything is made by hand and yet, look at how affordable everything is!  And it doesn't stop there: If you don't see what you are looking for, they also do custom orders and "will work with you to create a design perfect for your space."

There is such a range of colours and designs - it's such a joy to have each one be different than the rest. Don't you crave that kind of decor? Where everything is so special, so hand-selected?  

I love having these antique mementos facing me as I write. I wonder where they come from, who wore them and when - it's a little bit of history right there with you. What an incredible gift that is. I have a host of people on my gift list that I think will really treasure these beauties as much as I do (I can't stop looking at them - can you say that about your current board/pins?).

Chances are, you and your friends are going to be seriously talking new year's resolutions in a week or two. Why not put them up on the loveliest boards with the most dashing pins and magnets?!

Shop Button Ups by Chelsea & Kerry and have the most beautiful, exceptional holiday and new year every year!

The Holidays Just Got A Whole Lot Brighter Thanks to mt masking tape

When it comes to the holidays, I always want to do crafty, homemade things like make cards for friends or give them jam I've made in pretty decorated jars.

The fact that I've never made jam or that I really can't make things look like nice enough to give them as gifts has always stopped me. But now that I've discovered mt masking tape, it's so lovely looking that I just can't go wrong!

I love the variety of ways you can use it:

- highlight text in a journal or on a homemade booklet
- create art on canvas, a wall, furniture, fabric - wherever inspiration takes you

- as an arty label  (so much nicer than those plastic ones!)

- embellish your correspondence and envelopes

- label your food in the freezer

- frame and display photos

- wrap gifts  with flair

- keep things in sight - on your bulletin board, calendar, etc.

One of the most superb features is that there is no reside left behind when you use it, so the list of possibilities of places to use it really opens up.  And in case that's not amazing enough (it absolutely is), you can write on it with a pen and you don't need scissors in order to cut it.

Gasp. Where has this been all of my life?!

And let's not forget is that there are so many to choose from - 20 "light colours" and 20 "elegant colours" - and many ways in which to purchase them.

There is something so lovely about these embellishing tapes that you will no doubt find yourself putting them on everything, as I have done. My notebooks and journals, whiteboard, calendar and stationery are all a little prettier now, thanks to mt masking tape in border pale blue, warabi (pictured above - the olive coloured one above aotake) and stripe sakuranezu (pictured below - third from left)

Order enough for you and your entire holiday gift list.

Perhaps you'll make that jam after all, now that you've got the goods to go with it.

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.

You're Going to Fall in Love With Michelle Chang Jewelry

"Statement" necklaces, bib necklaces, earrings as big as a pickup truck and cuffs hang like thick croissants off the wrist often get a lot of attention in fashion mags.

But I think that it takes real talent to create a delicate, fine piece that rests on the clavicle, inviting you to step closer and see up close.

One of the finest designers I've found is Michelle Chang of Michelle Chang Jewelry. Her ethereal pieces in muted golds and silver are whimsical, modern and everlasting. And each piece is handmade, making it completely yours and yours alone.

I am smitten with the Manta Ray Pendant Necklace in Sterling Silver (pictured above). It is fluid like mercury, but flattened against your neck. It acts as a kind of unique amulet. I think it's downright sexy. And thought they are closely related to sharks, manta rays are harmless creatures (they don't even have teeth!) and solitary, so it's nice to be able to have one so close. I think of it as my

I swooned for the Small Wishbone Necklace in Sterling Silver as soon as I laid eyes on it. As a food-obssessed writer, it is a perfect ode to my profession, as well as what I am think about most often. Michelle's wishbone in particular is so feminine and pretty that it has become somewhat of an everday necklace for me, something I've never had before.

These are just two of the many incredible designs that Michelle has. You should really take a look at all of them.

Oh, and if that's not fantastic enough, get this - it's really affordable. Handmade, original designs at these prices? Don't be surprised if you buy in bulk. Actually, you'd be crazy not to!

The holiday season is coming fast. Now you've got:

- a place to get your holiday jewelry, and

- a place to get gifts that will not on be loved, but actually used.

Shop the Michelle Chang Jewelry collection now and get exquisite, memorable jewelry that you will cherish forever.

Discover the Beauty & Serenity of Meditation Rings

I am trying to live in the now, be present and be aware.

But I fail miserably at is most days.

So when I saw the stunning Meditation Rings, I thought, "Ooh, this is just what I need."

And who doesn't want new, beautiful jewelry that does more than just look good?

Based on ancient Tibetan Prayer Wheels,the practice of turning and spinning is said to do many things including enhance compassion and help you find a peaceful state of mind.

These beautiful  hand-hammered, 9 Kt Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation Rings help you to decrease your stress by moving/spinning one or several of the bands, depending upon which design you choose.

You'll be amazed at how simple it is and how quickly it goes to work on your anxieties and worries.  These rings are not only gorgeous (don't you just love the juxtaposition of the different materials, colours and textures?), but are also said to "bring good luck & fortune" to the wearer.

A lot of people play with their rings anyway, so why not have one that helps reduce your stress and calm your mind at the same time?

I have been wearing the 9 KT Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation ring with one Yellow Gold spinning band (pictured above) and I love the motion of spinning the gold band around the silver ring. Having studied Japanese and Tibetan Buddhism, I can tell you that the peace that comes with this simple act is bigger than you can imagine. But you don't have to practice Buddhism to benefit from this amazing jewelry.

Our lives are so hectic and hurried these days, that it's wonderful to take a moment and just be quiet and calm.

How wonderful is it that you don't have to spend time on the floor on a mat or away at a retreat, but simply wear an exquisite ring from Meditation Rings?

What a fantastic present for both you and those around you!

Shop now.

Smart Glass Recycled Jewelry - Drink It. Wear It. LOVE It!

I can't think of a better necklace than a Smart Glass necklace for me.

After all, what better gift for a food writer than the Murano Necklace (pictured above)?

In the words of Atlanta Designer Kathleen Plate, "Inspired by the artists of Murano, Italy, this necklace combines the best shapes, colors, and textures of our most popular pieces."

It's striking for sure. And really, I don't have anything like it in my collection.

But here's the best part - it's made from food and drink bottles! Kathleen, you're a woman after my own heart.

The aqua part is from a sake bottles, the pine coloured "o" is from a red wine bottle and the clear glass part in the middle? From a salad dressing bottle!! 

And there's no way that Kathleen could know how much I love salad (So much that I have one pretty much everyday. So much so that when I make one at home, our cat Cosmo comes over for a lick of dressing).

What a ingenious idea. 

It's no wonder Aveda came to her for an order and Coca-Cola commissioned her to create a line of jewelry using their signature bottles.

And there's something so satisfying about wearing not only beautiful jewelry, but one with a past. Jewelry that has been shaped and cared for by hand.

Kathleen has a real eye for design and detail. After all, she finishes the Murano with delicate silver strands that add a decidedly modern edge, but with a slight flapper feel. 

Check out the entire Recycled"Open" line, where the Murano lies, and be sure to stop by the Coca-Cola licensed products, Boutique line, Rings and Cufflinks, Recycled, Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Home and Hardware and Guys line.

I think you just got a new place to do all of your present buying. 

I know I did.

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...